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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 8-K

 

CURRENT REPORT

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): September 9, 2021

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   001-39802   85-1231852

(State or other jurisdiction

of incorporation)

  (Commission
File Number)
  (IRS Employer
Identification No.)

 

555 Skokie Boulevard

Suite 340

Northbrook, Illinois

  60062
(Address of principal executive offices)   (zip code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (847) 562-4300

 

Blue Water Acquisition Corp.
15 E. Putnam Avenue, Suite 363
Greenwich, CT 06830
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 

Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class  

Trading

Symbol(s)

 

Name of each exchange

on which registered

Common stock, par value $0.0001 per share   CRXT   The Nasdaq Global Market
Warrants to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $11.50   CRXTW   The Nasdaq Global Market

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

 

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 pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Introductory Note

 

On September 9, 2021 (the “Closing Date”), Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (f/k/a Blue Water Acquisition Corp. (“Blue Water”)), consummated the previously announced business combination pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated April 27, 2021 (the “Merger Agreement”), by and among Blue Water, Blue Water Merger Sub Corp., a Delaware corporation (“Merger Sub”) and Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Legacy Clarus”).

 

Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, a business combination between Blue Water and Legacy Clarus was effected through the merger of Merger Sub with and into Legacy Clarus, with Legacy Clarus surviving as the post-merger company and as a wholly owned subsidiary of Blue Water (the “Merger” and, collectively with the other transactions described in the Merger Agreement, the “Business Combination”). On the Closing Date, the registrant changed its name from Blue Water Acquisition Corp. to Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (“New Clarus” or the “Combined Entity”).

 

In accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions of the Merger Agreement, at the effective time of the Merger (the “Effective Time”), (A) an aggregate of 17,751,348 shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Blue Water (“Blue Water Class A common stock”) were issued to the holders of (i) certain shares of Legacy Clarus preferred stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (such shares, the “Legacy Clarus Consideration-Receiving Preferred Stock”) and (ii) the holders of certain convertible and non-convertible promissory notes of Legacy Clarus outstanding as of the Effective Time (such notes, the “Legacy Clarus Consideration-Receiving Notes”); (B) warrants to purchase an aggregate 61,146 shares of Legacy Clarus stock were converted into warrants to purchase an aggregate 9,246 shares of New Clarus common stock (such converting warrants, the “Legacy Clarus Converting Warrants”) and (C) all shares of Legacy Clarus capital stock (other than the Legacy Clarus Consideration-Receiving Preferred Stock), and all outstanding options, warrants or rights to purchase or subscribe for any Legacy Clarus capital stock, securities convertible into or exchangeable for, or that otherwise conferred on the holder any right to acquire any capital stock of Legacy Clarus (in each case, other than the Legacy Clarus Consideration-Receiving Notes and the Legacy Clarus Converting Warrants), whether or not exercised prior to the Effective Time, were cancelled, retired and terminated without any consideration or any liability to Legacy Clarus with respect thereto. In addition, all shares of Class B common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Blue Water (“Blue Water Class B common stock”, and together with the Blue Water Class A common stock, the “Blue Water common stock”) were converted into Blue Water Class A common stock in accordance with Blue Water’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation (the “Blue Water Charter”).

 

Following the Effective Time, upon filing of the second amended and restated certificate of incorporation, all shares of Blue Water common stock were redesignated as common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of New Clarus (“Common Stock”).

 

Unless the context otherwise requires, “we,” “us,” “our,” and the “Company” refer Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries. All references herein to the “Board” refer to the board of directors of Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. unless the context otherwise requires. All references herein to the “Closing” refer to the closing of the Business Combination contemplated by the Merger Agreement.

 

A description of the Business Combination and the terms of the Merger Agreement are included in the final prospectus and definitive proxy statement filed by New Clarus with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on July 23, 2021 (the “Proxy Statement/Prospectus”) in the section entitled “The Business Combination Proposal (Proposal 1)” beginning on page 101 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus.

 

The foregoing description of the Merger Agreement is a summary only and is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the Merger Agreement, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 2.1 hereto, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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Item 1.01. Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement.

 

Registration Rights Agreement

 

In connection with the Business Combination, on September 9, 2021, New Clarus, certain persons and entities holding securities of New Clarus and certain persons and entities receiving Common Stock pursuant to the Merger Agreement entered into a Registration Rights Agreement (the “Registration Rights Agreement”). The terms of the Registration Rights Agreement are described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section entitled “The Business Combination Proposal (Proposal 1)” beginning on page 101 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus.

 

The foregoing description of the Registration Rights Agreement is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the Registration Rights Agreement, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 4.1 hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Stockholder Lock-Up Agreements

 

In connection with the Business Combination, on September 9, 2021, New Clarus entered into lock-up agreements with certain stockholders of Legacy Clarus and executives of New Clarus (the “Legacy Holders”). The terms of the lock-up agreements provide for the Common Stock held by the Legacy Holders as of immediately after the Effective Time to be subject to transfer restrictions for a period of six months after the Closing Date, subject to certain exceptions. 

 

The foregoing description of the Legacy Holders’ lock-up agreements is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the form of lock-up agreement, which is filed as Exhibit 4.2 hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Lender Lock-Up Agreements

 

In connection with the Business Combination, on September 9, 2021, New Clarus entered into lock-up agreements with certain holders of Senior Secured Notes (defined below) issued by Legacy Clarus (the “Legacy Lenders”). The terms of the lock-up agreements provide for certain shares of Common Stock held by the Legacy Lenders as of immediately after the Effective Time to be subject to transfer restrictions for a period of six months after the Closing Date, subject to certain exceptions. However, during the second half of the lock-up period (the “Leak-Out Period”), each Legacy Lender will be able to engage in limited transfers of restricted securities that would otherwise be prohibited by the lock-up, up to a daily maximum volume based on the number of restricted securities held by such Legacy Lender at the commencement of the Leak-Out Period prorated to the number of trading days in the Leak-Out Period, with the ability to cumulate unused daily volume limits over a maximum period of five trading days.

 

The foregoing description of the Legacy Lenders’ lock-up agreements is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the form of lock-up agreement, which is filed as Exhibit 4.3 hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Indemnification Agreements

 

In connection with the Business Combination, on September 9, 2021, New Clarus entered into indemnification agreements with each of its directors and executive officers. These indemnification agreements require New Clarus to indemnify its directors and executive officers for certain expenses, including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines and settlement amounts incurred by a director or executive officer in any action or proceeding arising out of their services as one of New Clarus’ directors or executive officers or any other company or enterprise to which the person provides services at New Clarus’ request.

 

The foregoing description of the indemnification agreements are qualified in its entirety by the full text of the form of indemnification agreements, which are filed as Exhibits 10.2 and 10.3 hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Legacy Clarus Senior Secured Notes

 

As of the Closing Date and following the completion of the Business Combination, there will be approximately $43.125 million of principal (including principal of $3.125 million in respect of the PIK note described below), plus accrued interest, outstanding under senior secured notes issued by Legacy Clarus pursuant to an indenture dated March 12, 2020, as supplemented on May 27, 2021 and on the Closing Date (the “Senior Secured Notes”). Proceeds from the original issuance were used by Legacy Clarus to finance the commercial launch of JATENZO in 2020.

 

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The Senior Secured Notes, currently bear interest at a rate of 14.5% per annum, are secured by substantially all of Legacy Clarus’ assets and intellectual property, and mature in March 2025. The Senior Secured Notes provide for semi-annual payments on March 1 and September 1. Until March 2022, only interest is payable on the notes, with payments in the amount of $3.920 million due on September 1, 2021 and $3.852 million due on March 1, 2022. As of the date of this current report on Form 8-K, Legacy Clarus has not yet paid the interest payment due September 1, 2021 pursuant to a 30-day grace period. Beginning with the payment due September 1, 2022, in addition to interest payments, Legacy Clarus is required to make principal payments of $6.0 million on each of September 1, 2022, March 1, 2023, September 1, 2023 and March 1, 2024. Thereafter, in addition to interest payments, Legacy Clarus is required to make principal payments of $8.0 million on each of September 1, 2024 and March 1, 2025. Additionally, on February 1, 2023, Legacy Clarus is required to make a payment of principal in the amount of $3.125 million, which is the amount of a payment-in-kind (“PIK”) note issued by Legacy Clarus on May 27, 2021, plus accrued and unpaid interest in respect of such principal. Legacy Clarus issued the PIK note to evidence the payment of interest on the Senior Secured Notes in the amount of $3.125 million that was due on March 1, 2021.

 

Further information regarding the Senior Secured Notes and the PIK note is found in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Clarus—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Senior Secured Notes” beginning on page 190 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Business Operations and Commercialization” beginning on page 52 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus.

 

The foregoing description of the terms of the Senior Secured Notes are qualified in their entirety by the full text of the indenture and supplemental indenture, which are filed as Exhibits 10.14 and 10.15 hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 2.01. Completion of Acquisition or Disposition of Assets.

 

The disclosure set forth in the “Introductory Note” above is incorporated by reference into this Item 2.01.

 

At a special meeting of stockholders held on August 27, 2021 (the “Special Meeting”), Blue Water’s stockholders approved the Business Combination. The Business Combination was completed on September 9, 2021.

 

As of the Closing Date and following the completion of the Business Combination, the Company issued the following securities pursuant to the Merger Agreement:

 

13,431,889 shares of Common Stock to the holders of the Legacy Clarus Consideration-Receiving Preferred Stock, Legacy Clarus Consideration-Receiving Notes and Legacy Clarus Converting Warrants;

 

1,770,000 shares of Common Stock to the holders of certain Senior Secured Notes of Legacy Clarus in exchange for $10.0 million of the aggregate principal amount of such notes and certain outstanding royalty rights and additional forbearance; and

 

2,558,705 shares of Common Stock to the holders of Senior Secured Notes and convertible promissory notes of Legacy Clarus that were issued between the date of the Merger Agreement and the Closing Date.

 

The Clarus lenders also received an aggregate 135,000 shares from the Sponsor pursuant to a share allocation agreement.

 

FORM 10 INFORMATION

 

Prior to the Closing, New Clarus was a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) with no operations, formed as a vehicle to effect a business combination with one or more operating businesses. After the Closing, New Clarus became a holding company whose only assets consist of equity interests in Legacy Clarus.

 

The material terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement are described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “The Business Combination Proposal (Proposal 1)” beginning on page 101 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus.

 

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Forward-Looking Statements

 

This Current Report on Form 8-K (including the documents incorporated by reference herein) contains forward-looking statements regarding, among other things, the plans, strategies and prospects, both business and financial, of New Clarus. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of New Clarus. Although New Clarus believes that its respective plans, intentions and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, New Clarus cannot assure you that it will either achieve or realize these plans, intentions or expectations. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Generally, statements that are not historical facts, including statements concerning possible or assumed future actions, business strategies, events or results of operations, are forward-looking statements. These statements may be preceded by, followed by or include the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” or similar expressions, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. New Clarus cautions you that these forward-looking statements are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of New Clarus, incident to its business.

 

These forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this Current Report on Form 8-K, and current expectations, forecasts and assumptions, and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, forward-looking statements in this Current Report on Form 8-K and in any document incorporated herein by reference should not be relied upon as representing New Clarus’ views as of any subsequent date, and New Clarus does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

 

As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, New Clarus’ actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include:

 

the ability of New Clarus to realize the benefits from the Business Combination;

 

the ability to maintain the listing of New Clarus’ Common Stock on the Nasdaq Global Market following the Business Combination;

 

future financial performance following the Business Combination;

 

public securities’ potential liquidity and trading;

 

the impact from the outcome of any known and unknown litigation;

 

the ability of New Clarus to forecast and maintain an adequate rate of revenue growth and appropriately plan its expenses;

 

expectations regarding future expenditures of New Clarus following the Business Combination;

 

the future mix of revenue and effect on gross margins of New Clarus following the Business Combination;

 

the attraction and retention of qualified directors, officers, employees and key personnel of New Clarus following the Business Combination;

 

the ability of New Clarus to compete effectively in a competitive industry;

 

the ability to protect and enhance New Clarus’ corporate reputation and brand;

 

expectations concerning New Clarus’ relationships and actions with third parties;

 

the impact from future regulatory, judicial, and legislative changes in New Clarus’ industry;

 

the ability to locate and acquire complementary products or product candidates and integrate those into New Clarus’ business;

 

future arrangements with, or investments in, other entities or associations;

 

intense competition and competitive pressures from other companies in the industries in which the Combined Entity will operate; and

 

other economic, business and/or competitive factors, risks and uncertainties, including those set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 45 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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Business and Properties

 

The business and properties of Blue Water and Legacy Clarus prior to the Business Combination are described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the sections entitled “Information about Blue Water” beginning on page 139 and “Information about Clarus” beginning on page 152, respectively, of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, which are incorporated herein by reference.

 

Risk Factors

 

The risks associated with New Clarus’ business are described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 45 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Financial Information

 

Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements

 

Reference is made to the disclosure set forth in Item 9.01(a) of this Current Report on Form 8-K concerning the financial information of Legacy Clarus. Reference is further made to the disclosure described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section entitled “Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Information of Clarus” beginning on page 37 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus.

 

Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information

 

Reference is made to the disclosure set forth in Item 9.01(b) of this Current Report on Form 8-K concerning the combined financial information of Blue Water and Legacy Clarus. Reference is further made to the disclosure described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section entitled “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information” beginning on page 81, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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

 

Reference is made to the disclosure contained in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the sections entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Blue Water” beginning on page 147, and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Clarus” beginning on page 182, each of which are incorporated herein by reference, as well as “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Clarus” with respect to the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, which is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.2, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

Reference is made to the disclosure contained in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Clarus— Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risks,” which is incorporated herein by reference. As of June 30, 2021, there had been no material changes to our market risks as disclosed in such section.

 

5

 

 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

 

The following table sets forth information regarding the beneficial ownership of Common Stock immediately following consummation of the Business Combination by:

 

each person known by New Clarus to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of New Clarus’ outstanding Common Stock immediately following the consummation of the Business Combination;

 

each of New Clarus’ executive officers and directors; and

 

all of New Clarus’ executive officers and directors as a group after the consummation of the Business Combination.

 

Beneficial ownership is determined according to the rules of the SEC, which generally provide that a person has beneficial ownership of a security if he, she or it possesses sole or shared voting or investment power over that security. Under those rules, beneficial ownership includes securities that the individual or entity has the right to acquire, such as through the exercise of warrants within 60 days of the Closing Date. Shares subject to warrants that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of the Closing Date are considered outstanding and beneficially owned by the person holding such warrants for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of that person but are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Except as noted by footnote, and subject to community property laws where applicable, based on the information provided to New Clarus, New Clarus believes that the persons and entities named in the table below have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares shown as beneficially owned by them. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each of the directors and executive officers of New Clarus is 555 Skokie Boulevard, Suite 340, Northbrook, IL 60062. The percentage of beneficial ownership of New Clarus is calculated based on 21,725,817 shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to the consummation of the Business Combination.

 

Name and Address of Beneficial Owner   Number of
Shares
    Percentage of
Outstanding Shares
 
Directors and Executive Officers                
Kimberly Murphy            
Joseph Hernandez(4)     1,302,500       6.0 %
Robert E. Dudley     4,566       *  
Elizabeth A. Cermak            
Mark A. Prygocki, Sr            
Alex Zisson(1)     5,692,381       26.2 %
John Amory            
Richard Peterson            
Frank Jaeger            
Steve Bourne     1,305       *  
All directors and executive officers as a group (10 individuals)     7,000,752       32.2 %
Five Percent Holders:                
Entities affiliated with H.I.G. BioVentures(1)     5,692,381       26.2 %
Entities affiliated with Thomas, McNerney & Partners(2)     5,498,571       25.3 %
CBC SPVI Ltd.(3)     3,602,287       16.6 %
Blue Water Sponsor LLC (4)     1,302,500       6.0 %
Entities affiliated with Bracebridge Capital, LLC(5)     2,229,855       10.3 %

 

 

* less than 1%

(1) Consists of (i) 2,731,094 shares of Common Stock directly held by H.I.G. Ventures — Clarus, LLC, (ii) (ii) 2,470,756 shares of Common Stock directly held by H.I.G. Bio — Clarus II, L.P., and (iii) 490,531 shares of Common Stock directly held by H.I.G. Bio — Clarus I, L.P. Alex Zisson is a managing director of H.I.G. Capital LLC, and may be deemed to share voting and investment power with respect to the shares directly held by H.I.G. Ventures — Clarus, LLC, H.I.G. Bio — Clarus II, L.P., and H.I.G. Bio — Clarus I, L.P. Bruce Robertson is also a managing director of H.I.G. Capital LLC and may be deemed to share voting and investment power with respect to the shares directly held by H.I.G. Ventures — Clarus, LLC, H.I.G. BioVentures, H.I.G. Bio — Clarus II, L.P., and H.I.G. Bio — Clarus I, L.P. Those three entities are owned by private funds advised by H.I.G. Capital, LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor, and its affiliates. The address for all entities and individuals affiliated with H.I.G. BioVentures is 1450 Brickell Ave., Suite 3100, Miami, FL 33131.

 

6

 

 

(2) Consists of (i) 2,436,725 shares of Common Stock directly held by Thomas, McNerney & Partners, L.P., or TMP, (ii) 3,020,674 shares of Common Stock directly held by Thomas, McNerney & Partners II, L.P., or TMP II, (iii) 8,383 shares of Common Stock directly held by TMP Nominee, LLC, or TMP Nominee (iv) 19,970 shares of Common Stock held by TMP Nominee II, LLC or TMP Nominee II, (v) 1,706 shares of Common Stock directly held by TMP Associates, L.P., or TMP Associates and (vi) 11,113 shares of Common Stock directly held by TMP Associates II. L.P. or, TMP Associates II. TMP GP, the general partner of TMP, TMP II, TMP Associates and TMP Associates II, has voting and dispositive power over the shares held by TMP, TMP II, TMP Associates and TMP Associates II. In addition, each of TMP Nominee and TMP Nominee II has entered into an agreement that it shall vote and dispose of securities in the same manner as directed by TMP GP with respect to the shares held by TMP and TMP Associates and as directed by TMP GP II with respect to shares held by TMP II and TMP Associates II. James Thomas is manager of TMP GP and TMP GP II, and of TMP Nominee and TMP Nominee II. He disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares owned by TMP, TMP II, TMP Nominee, TMP Nominee II, TMP Associates and TMP Associates II. The address for all entities and individuals affiliated with Thomas, McNerney is c/o Thomas, McNerney & Partners, L.P., 12527 Central Avenue NE, #297, Minneapolis, MN 55434.
(3) Shares of Common Stock are directly held by CBC SPVI Ltd. The address for CBC SPVI Ltd. is Suites 3306-3307, Two Exchange Square, 8 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong.
(4) Joseph Hernandez, a member of New Clarus’ Board, is the managing member of Blue Water Sponsor LLC, and as such may be deemed to have sole voting and investment discretion with respect to the securities held by Blue Water Sponsor LLC.
(5) Represents shares of Common Stock held by FFI Fund Ltd., FYI Ltd. and Olifant Fund, Ltd. (collectively, the “Bracebridge Funds”). Bracebridge Capital, LLC (the “Bracebridge Investment Manager”) is the investment manager of each of the Bracebridge Funds, and has the authority to vote and dispose of all of the shares reflected herein. The business address of the Bracebridge Funds and the Bracebridge Investment Manager is 888 Boylston St., Suite 1500, Boston, MA 02199.

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

New Clarus’ directors and executive officers after the consummation of the Business Combination are described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Management After Business Combination” beginning on page 226 and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Directors

 

As of the Effective Time, in connection with the Business Combination, the size of Board was increased from six to seven members. Jon Garfield, James Sapirstein, Michael Lerner and Yvonne McBurney resigned as directors of the effective as of the Effective Time. Effective as of the Effective Time, Dr. Robert Dudley, Elizabeth Cermak, Mark Prygocki, Alex Zisson and John Amory were appointed to serve as directors on the Board.

 

Alex Zisson and John Amory were appointed to serve as Class I directors, with terms expiring at New Clarus’ 2022 annual meeting of stockholders; Elizabeth Cermak and Mark Prygocki were appointed to serve as Class II directors, with terms expiring at New Clarus’ 2023 annual meeting of stockholders; and Dr. Robert Dudley, Joseph Hernandez and Kimberly Murphy were appointed to serve as Class III directors, with terms expiring at New Clarus’ 2024 annual meeting of stockholders. Biographical information for these individuals is set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section entitled “Management After the Business Combination” beginning on page 226 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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Independence of our Board of Directors

 

Information with respect to the independence of New Clarus’ directors is set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Management After the Business Combination – Director Independence” beginning on page 229 and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Committees of the Board of Directors

 

Information with respect to the composition of the committees of the board of directors immediately after the Closing is set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Management After the Business Combination – Committees of the Board of Directors” beginning on page 229 and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Executive Compensation

 

A description of the compensation of the named executive officers of Legacy Clarus is set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Executive Compensation of Clarus” beginning on page 232, and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Employment Agreements

 

In connection with the Business Combination, Legacy Clarus entered into new employment agreements with our executive officers effective as of September 9, 2021 (which superseded each executive officer’s prior employment or offer letter agreement with Legacy Clarus): Robert E. Dudley, Ph.D. (Chief Executive Officer and President), Richard Peterson (Chief Financial Officer), Steven A. Bourne, CPA (Chief Administrative Officer) and Frank A. Jaeger (Chief Commercial Officer). Each employment agreement provides for an indefinite employment term that may be terminated in accordance with the terms and conditions of the employment agreement, and sets forth the executive officer’s annual base salary and annual cash performance-based bonus with a target of a certain percentage of base salary based on the achievement of certain performance objectives as determined by the compensation committee of the board of directors of New Clarus. Each employment agreement also provides for severance benefits upon a termination of employment without “cause” or by the executive officer for “good reason” (each as defined in the employment agreements), including (i) a pro-rata annual bonus for the year of termination (based on actual performance), (ii) a certain number of months of base salary (18 months for Dr. Dudley and 12 months for each of Messrs. Peterson, Jaeger and Bourne), payable in installments over the applicable severance period (or in the event such termination occurs on or following a “change in control” (as defined in the employment agreements), payable in a lump sum following such termination), and (iii) payment of the employer-portion of COBRA premiums during the applicable severance prior (or until the executive officer becomes eligible to receive health benefits as a result of subsequent employment or service during the severance period, if earlier). Each employment agreement also contains certain restrictive covenants, including non-competition, non-solicitation, and confidentiality covenants.

 

The foregoing description of the new employment agreements with each of Dr. Dudley, Mr. Peterson, Mr. Bourne and Mr. Jaeger is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the employment agreements, copies of which are filed as Exhibits 10.4, 10.5, 10.6 and 10.7 hereto, respectively, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Director Compensation

 

A description of the compensation of the directors of Legacy Clarus before the consummation of the Business Combination is set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Director Compensation” beginning on page 236 and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions

 

Certain relationships and related person transactions are described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions” beginning on page 238 and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

8

 

 

Legal Proceedings

 

Reference is made to the disclosure regarding legal proceedings in the section of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus titled “Information about Blue Water – Legal Proceedings” on page 140 and “Information about Clarus – Legal on Proceedings” on page 177 and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Market Price of and Dividends on Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters

 

Market Information and Holders

 

The Common Stock, and the warrants issued to the public (the “Public Warrants”) and units issued in Blue Water’s initial public offering were historically traded on The Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols “BLUW,” “BLUWW” and “BLUWU,” respectively. At the Effective Time, the Blue Water units automatically separated into the component securities and, as a result, no longer trade as a separate security. On September 10, 2021, the Common Stock and Public Warrants began trading on The Nasdaq Global Market under the new trading symbols “CRXT” and “CRXTW,” respectively.

 

As of the Closing Date and immediately following completion of the Business Combination, New Clarus had approximately 21,725,817 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding held of record by 23 registered holders and approximately 9,195,000 Public Warrants and private warrants outstanding held of record by two registered holders. The actual number of holders of these securities is greater than this number of record holders, as the actual number includes holders who are beneficial owners whose securities are held in street name by brokers and other nominees. This number of holders of record also does not include holders whose securities may be held in trust by other entities.

 

Dividends

 

New Clarus has not paid any cash dividends on shares of its Common Stock. Any decision to declare and pay dividends in the future will be made at the sole discretion of the Board and will depend on, among other things, New Clarus’ results of operations, cash requirements, financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors that the Board may deem relevant.

 

Description of Company’s Securities

 

The description of New Clarus’ securities is contained in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Description of Securities of Blue Water” beginning on page 202 and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

 

The information set forth in Item 4.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Indemnification of Directors and Officers

 

Information about indemnification of New Clarus’ directors and officers is set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section entitled “Management After the Business Combination” beginning on page 226 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, which is incorporated herein by reference. The disclosure set forth in Item 1.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K under the section entitled “Indemnification Agreements” is incorporated by reference into this Item 2.01.

 

Financial Statements and Exhibits

 

The information set forth under Item 9.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 2.03. Creation of a Direct Financial Obligation or an Obligation under an Off-Balance Sheet Arrangement of a Registrant.

 

The disclosure set forth in Item 1.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

9

 

 

Item 3.03. Material Modification to Rights of Security Holders.

 

In connection with the consummation of the Business Combination, Blue Water changed its name to “Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.” and adopted a second amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated by-laws. Reference is made to the disclosure described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the sections titled “Charter Amendment Proposals (Proposals 2 through 5)”, “Comparison of Stockholder Rights” and “Description of Securities of Blue Water,” beginning on pages 127, 212 and 202, respectively which are incorporated herein by reference. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of New Clarus’ second amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated by-laws, which are attached as Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2 hereto, respectively, and are incorporated herein by reference.

 

In accordance with Rule 12g-3(a) under the Exchange Act, New Clarus is the successor issuer to Blue Water and has succeeded to the attributes of Blue Water as the registrant. In addition, the shares of Common Stock of New Clarus, as the successor to Blue Water, are deemed to be registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act. Holders of uncertificated shares of Blue Water Class A common stock and Blue Water Class B common stock prior to the Closing have continued as holders of shares of uncertificated shares of New Clarus’ Common Stock. After consummation of the Business Combination, the Common Stock and warrants to purchase Common Stock began trading on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols “CRXT” and “CRXTW”, respectively and the CUSIP number relating to the Common Stock is 18271L 107 and the CUSIP number relating to the warrants is 18271L 115. Holders of Blue Water shares who have filed reports under the Exchange Act with respect to those shares should indicate in their next filing, or any amendment to a prior filing, filed on or after the Closing Date that New Clarus is the successor to Blue Water.

 

Item 4.01 Changes in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant.

 

On September 10, 2021, the audit committee of the Board approved a resolution appointing RSM US LLP (“RSM”) as New Clarus’ independent registered public accounting firm to audit New Clarus’ financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, and Marcum LLP (“Marcum”) was dismissed from its role as New Clarus’s independent registered public accounting firm.

 

Marcum's report on the registrant's financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 and the period from May 22, 2020 (inception) to December 31, 2020 did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion, nor was either report qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles except for an explanatory paragraph in such report regarding substantial doubt about the registrant's ability to continue as a going concern. 

 

At no point during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 and the subsequent interim period through September 10, 2021 were there any (i) disagreements with Marcum on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreement(s), if not resolved to the satisfaction of Marcum, would have caused it to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreement(s) in connection with its report, or (ii) “reportable events” as that term is defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K, other than as noted above regarding New Clarus’ ability to continue as a going concern.

 

New Clarus has provided Marcum with a copy of the foregoing disclosure and has requested that Marcum furnish New Clarus with a letter addressed to the SEC stating whether or not it agrees with the statements made herein, each as required by applicable SEC rules. A copy of Marcum’s letter to the SEC is filed as Exhibit 16.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K.

 

During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 and the subsequent interim period through date of this Current Report on Form 8-K, the Company did not consult with RSM regarding any of the matters or events set forth in Item 304(a)(2)(i) and (ii) of Regulation S-K.

 

Item 5.01. Changes in Control of Registrant.

 

Reference is made to the disclosure in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “The Business Combination Proposal (Proposal 1)” beginning on page 101 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, which is incorporated herein by reference. The information set forth in the section entitled “Introductory Note” and in the section entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in Item 2.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

10

 

 

Item 5.02. Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.

 

The information set forth in the sections entitled “Directors and Executive Officers” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” in Item 2.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Clarus Therapeutics Holdings Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan

 

At the special meeting of Blue Water stockholders held on August 27, 2021, Blue Water stockholders considered and approved the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan (the “2021 Plan”). The 2021 Plan allows New Clarus to make equity and equity-based incentive awards to officers, employees, directors and consultants. The Blue Water board of directors anticipated that providing such persons with a direct stake in New Clarus will assure a closer alignment of the interests of such individuals with those of New Clarus and its stockholders, thereby stimulating their efforts on New Clarus’ behalf and strengthening their desire to remain with New Clarus.

 

Blue Water has initially reserved 3,475,000 shares of Common Stock for the issuance of awards under the 2021 Plan (the “Initial Limit”). The 2021 Plan provides that the number of shares reserved and available for issuance under the 2021 Plan will automatically increase each January 1, beginning on January 1, 2022, by 4% of the outstanding number of shares of common stock of New Clarus on the immediately preceding December 31, or such lesser amount as determined by the plan administrator (the “Annual Increase”). This limit is subject to adjustment in the event of a reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, stock split, stock dividend, reverse stock split or other similar change in New Clarus’ capitalization. The maximum aggregate number of shares of common stock of New Clarus that may be issued upon exercise of incentive stock options under the 2021 Plan shall not exceed the Initial Limit cumulatively increased on January 1, 2022 and on each January 1 thereafter by the lesser of the Annual Increase or 3,475,000 shares of common stock of New Clarus. Shares underlying any awards under the 2021 Plan that are forfeited, cancelled, held back upon exercise of an option or settlement of an award to cover the exercise price or tax withholding, satisfied without the issuance of stock or otherwise terminated (other than by exercise) will be added back to the shares available for issuance under the 2021 Plan and, to the extent permitted under Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder, the shares that may be issued as incentive stock options.

 

A more complete summary of the terms of the 2021 Plan is set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “The Incentive Plan Proposal (Proposal 7)” beginning on page 130 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus. That summary and the foregoing description of the 2021 Plan does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the 2021 Plan, which is filed as Exhibit 10.8 hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan

 

At the special meeting of Blue Water stockholders held on August 12, 2021, Blue Water stockholders considered and approved the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”). An aggregate of 347,500 shares will be reserved and available for issuance under the 2021 ESPP. The 2021 ESPP provides that the number of shares reserved and available for issuance under the plan will automatically increase each January 1, beginning on January 1, 2022, by the lesser of 347,500 shares of Common Stock of New Clarus, 1.0% of the outstanding number of shares of the Common Stock of New Clarus on the immediately preceding December 31, or such lesser amount as determined by the plan administrator. If our capital structure changes because of a stock dividend, subdivision of outstanding shares or similar event, the number of shares that can be issued under the 2021 ESPP will be appropriately adjusted.

 

A more complete summary of the terms of the ESPP is set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “The ESPP Proposal (Proposal 8)” beginning on page 135 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus. That summary and the foregoing description of the ESPP does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the ESPP, which is filed as Exhibit 10.10 hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 5.03. Amendments to Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws; Change in Fiscal Year.

 

The disclosure set forth in Item 3.03 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

11

 

 

Item 5.06.

Change in Shell Company Status.

 

As a result of the consummation of the Business Combination, New Clarus ceased to be a shell company upon the Closing. The material terms of the Business Combination are described in the section entitled “The Business Combination Proposal (Proposal 1)” beginning on page 101 of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and are incorporated herein by reference. 

 

Item 9.01.

Financial Statements and Exhibits.

 

(a) Financial statements of businesses acquired.

 

The unaudited interim financial statements of Legacy Clarus as of June 30, 2021 are filed as Exhibit 99.1 hereto and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

The financial statements of Legacy Clarus as of March 31, 2021 and for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and the related notes are set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus beginning on page F-40 and are incorporated herein by reference.

 

The audited financial statements of Legacy Clarus as of and for the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the related notes are set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus beginning on page F-58 and are incorporated herein by reference.

 

(b) Pro forma financial information.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information of Blue Water and Legacy Clarus as of June 30, 2021 and for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the six months ended June 30, 2021 is set forth in Exhibit 99.3 hereto and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

(d) Exhibits.

 

Exhibit
Number
  Description
2.1 †   Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 27, 2021, by and among Blue Water, Blue Merger Sub and Legacy Clarus (incorporated by reference to Annex A to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
3.1   Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company.
3.2   Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company.
4.1   Registration Rights Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, by and among the Company, Blue Water Sponsor LLC and Legacy Clarus securityholders party thereto.
4.2   Form of Stockholder Lock-Up Agreement by and between the Company and the stockholder of Legacy Clarus party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, filed by Blue Water on May 3, 2021 and also included as Exhibit I to Annex A to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
4.3   Form of Lender Lock-Up Agreement by and between the Company and the noteholder of Legacy Clarus party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, filed by Blue Water on May3, 2021 and also included as Exhibit J to Annex A to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.1   Transaction Support Agreement, dated of April 27, 2021 by and among the Company, Legacy Clarus and the Legacy Clarus securityholders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, filed by Blue Water on May 3, 2021).

  

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10.2*   Form of Indemnification Agreement (Directors).
10.3*   Form of Indemnification Agreement (Officers).
10.4*   Employment Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Robert E. Dudley.
10.5*   Employment Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Richard Peterson.
10.6*   Employment Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Steven A. Bourne.
10.7*   Employment Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Frank Jaeger.
10.8*   Form of 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex C to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.9   Forms of Award Agreements under the 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan.
10.10*   Form of Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex D to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.11   Office Lease, dated August 18, 2011 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and MJH Northbrook LLC, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.12   Form of Warrant to Purchase Stock, issued April 2013, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.13†   Base Indenture, dated March 12, 2020 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.1   Supplemental Indenture No. 1, dated May 27, 2021 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.15   Supplemental Indenture No. 2, dated September 9, 2021 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association.
10.16#   Softgel Commercial Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 3, 2009 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Catalent Pharma Solutions, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.17#   Amendment No. 1 to Softgel Commercial Manufacturing Agreement, dated October 23, 2012 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Catalent Pharma Solutions, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.18#   Amendment No. 2 to Softgel Commercial Manufacturing Agreement, dated November 12, 2012 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Catalent Pharma Solutions, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.19#   Amendment No. 3 to Softgel Commercial Manufacturing Agreement, dated June 5, 2017 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Catalent Pharma Solutions, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.20#   Commercial Packaging Agreement, dated June 26, 2014 by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Packaging Coordinators, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
10.21#   First Amendment to Commercial Packaging Agreement, dated January 14, 2019, by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Packaging Coordinators, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus).
16.1   Marcum’s Letter to the Securities and Exchange Commission, dated September 15, 2021.
99.1   Unaudited interim financial statements of Legacy Clarus as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2021.
99.2   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Legacy Clarus for the six months ended June 30, 2021.
99.3   Unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information of the Company as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and for the year ended December 31, 2020.
104   Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)

 

* Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement
Certain of the exhibits and schedules to this Exhibit have been omitted in accordance with Regulation S-K Item 601(a)(5). The Registrant agrees to furnish a copy of all omitted exhibits and schedules to the SEC upon its request.
# Portions of this exhibit (indicated by brackets and asterisks) have been omitted because the Registrant has determined that the information is both not material and is the type that the Registrant treats as private or confidential.

 

13

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

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

 

Date: September 15, 2021 CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.
   
  By: /s/ Robert E. Dudley
  Name:  Robert E. Dudley
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     

 

 

14

 

Exhibit 3.1

 

SECOND
AMENDED AND RESTATED
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF BLUE WATER ACQUISITION CORP.

 

September 9, 2021

 

Blue Water Acquisition Corp., a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Delaware (the “Corporation”), DOES HEREBY CERTIFY AS FOLLOWS:

 

1. The name of the Corporation is “Blue Water Acquisition Corp.” The original certificate of incorporation was filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on May 22, 2020 (the “Original Certificate”). The Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the “First Amended and Restated Certificate”), which both restated and amended the provisions of the Original Certificate was filed with the Secretary of the State of Delaware on December 16, 2020.

 

2. This Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the “Second Amended and Restated Certificate”), which both restates and amends the provisions of the First Amended and Restated Certificate, was duly adopted in accordance with Sections 228, 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (as amended from time to time, the “DGCL”).

 

3. This Second Amended and Restated Certificate shall become effective on the date of filing with the Secretary of State of Delaware.

 

4. Certain capitalized terms used in this Second Amended and Restated Certificate are defined where appropriate herein.

 

5. This Second Amended and Restated Certificate is being amended and restated in connection with the transactions contemplated by that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated April 27, 2021 (the “Merger Agreement”), by and among the Corporation, Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. and Blue Water Merger Sub Corp. As part of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, and in accordance with Section 4.3(b) of the First Amended and Restated Certificate, all shares of outstanding Class B Common Stock of the Corporation shall automatically be converted, on a one-to-one basis, into shares of Class A Common Stock of the Corporation such that, at the effectiveness of this Second Amended and Restated Certificate, only Class A Common Stock remains outstanding. All Class A Common Stock issued and outstanding prior to the effectiveness of this Second Amended and Restated Certificate and all Class A Common Stock issued as part of the Merger Agreement shall be renamed as Common Stock for all purposes of this Second Amended and Restated Certificate.

 

6. The text of the First Amended and Restated Certificate is hereby restated and amended in its entirety to read as follows:

 

Article I

 

The name of the corporation is Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

 

Article II

 

The address of the Corporation’s registered office in the State of Delaware is 251 Little Falls Drive, in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle, State of Delaware, 19808. The name of its registered agent at such address is Corporation Service Company.

 

 

 

 

Article III

 

The purpose of the Corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the DGCL.

 

Article IV

 

Capital Stock

 

The total number of shares of capital stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is 135,000,000 of which (i) 125,000,000 shares shall be a class designated as common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Common Stock”), and (ii) 10,000,000 shares shall be a class designated as undesignated preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Undesignated Preferred Stock”).

 

Except as otherwise provided in any certificate of designations of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock, the number of authorized shares of the class of Common Stock or Undesignated Preferred Stock may from time to time be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares of such class outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority in voting power of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the DGCL.

 

The powers, preferences and rights of, and the qualifications, limitations and restrictions upon, each class or series of stock shall be determined in accordance with, or as set forth below in, this Article IV.

 

A. Common Stock

 

Subject to all the rights, powers and preferences of the Undesignated Preferred Stock and except as provided by law or in this Certificate (or in any certificate of designations of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock):

 

(a) the holders of the Common Stock shall have the exclusive right to vote for the election of directors of the Corporation (the “Directors”) and on all other matters requiring stockholder action, each outstanding share entitling the holder thereof to one vote on each matter properly submitted to the stockholders of the Corporation for their vote; 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 this Certificate (or on any amendment to a certificate of designations of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock) that alters or changes the powers, preferences, rights or other terms of one or more outstanding series of Undesignated Preferred Stock if the holders of such affected series of Undesignated Preferred Stock are entitled to vote, either separately or together with the holders of one or more other such series, on such amendment pursuant to this Certificate (or pursuant to a certificate of designations of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock) or pursuant to the DGCL;

 

(b) dividends may be declared and paid or set apart for payment upon the Common Stock out of any assets or funds of the Corporation legally available for the payment of dividends, but only when and as declared by the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the “Board of Directors”) or any authorized committee thereof; and

 

(c) upon the voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the net assets of the Corporation shall be distributed pro rata to the holders of the Common Stock.

 

B. Undesignated Preferred Stock

 

The Board of Directors or any authorized committee thereof is expressly authorized, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to provide by resolution or resolutions for, out of the unissued shares of Undesignated Preferred Stock, the issuance of the shares of Undesignated Preferred Stock in one or more series of such stock, and by filing a certificate of designations pursuant to applicable law of the State of Delaware, to establish or change from time to time the number of shares of each such series, and to fix the designations, powers, including voting powers, full or limited, or no voting powers, preferences and the relative, participating, optional or other special rights of the shares of each series and any qualifications, limitations and restrictions thereof. Except as otherwise provided by any certificate of designations of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock then outstanding or by law, no holder of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock, as such, shall be entitled to any voting powers in respect thereof.

 

2

 

 

Article V

 

Stockholder Action

 

1. Action without Meeting. Except as may otherwise be provided by or pursuant to this Certificate (or any certificate of designations of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock then outstanding) with respect to the holders of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock then outstanding, any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation at any annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation must be effected at a duly called annual or special meeting of stockholders and may not be taken or effected by a written consent of stockholders in lieu thereof. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote thereon, and the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class, shall be required to amend or repeal any provision of this Article V, Section 1.

 

2. Special Meetings. Except as otherwise required by statute and subject to the rights, if any, of the holders of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock, special meetings of the stockholders of the Corporation may be called only by the Board of Directors acting pursuant to a resolution approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Directors then in office, and special meetings of stockholders may not be called by any other person or persons. Only those matters set forth in the notice of the special meeting may be considered or acted upon at a special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote thereon, and the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class, shall be required to amend or repeal any provision of this Article V, Section 2.

 

Article VI

 

Directors

 

1. General. The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of the Board of Directors except as otherwise provided herein or required by law.

 

2. Election of Directors. Election of Directors need not be by written ballot unless the By-laws of the Corporation (the “By-laws”) shall so provide.

 

3. Number of Directors; Term of Office. The number of Directors of the Corporation shall be fixed solely and exclusively by resolution duly adopted from time to time by the Board of Directors. The Directors, other than those who may be elected by the holders of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock, shall be classified, with respect to the term for which they severally hold office, into three classes, designated as Class I, Class II and Class III, respectively. At the first annual meeting of stockholders after the date hereof, the term of office of the Class I directors shall expire and Class I directors shall be elected for a full term of three years. At the second annual meeting of stockholders after the date hereof, the term of office of the Class II directors shall expire and Class II directors shall be elected for a full term of three years. At the third annual meeting of stockholders after the date hereof, the term of office of the Class III directors shall expire and Class III directors shall be elected for a full term of three years. At each annual meeting of stockholders, Directors elected to succeed those Directors whose terms expire shall be elected for a term of office to expire at the third succeeding annual meeting of stockholders after their election. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Directors elected to each class shall hold office until their successors are duly elected and qualified or until their earlier resignation, death or removal.

 

3

 

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, whenever, pursuant to the provisions of Article IV of this Certificate, the holders of any one or more series of Undesignated Preferred Stock shall have the right, voting separately as a series or together with holders of other such series, to elect Directors at an annual or special meeting of stockholders, the election, term of office, filling of vacancies and other features of such directorships shall be governed by the terms of this Certificate and any certificate of designations applicable to such series.

 

Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote thereon, and the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class, shall be required to amend or repeal any provision of this Article VI, Section 3.

 

4. Vacancies. Subject to the rights, if any, of the holders of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock to elect Directors and to fill vacancies in the Board of Directors relating thereto, any and all vacancies in the Board of Directors, however occurring, including, without limitation, by reason of an increase in the size of the Board of Directors, or the death, resignation, disqualification or removal of a Director, shall be filled solely and exclusively by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining Directors then in office, even if less than a quorum of the Board of Directors, and not by the stockholders. Any Director appointed in accordance with the preceding sentence shall hold office for the remainder of the full term of the class of Directors in which the new directorship was created or the vacancy occurred and until such Director’s successor shall have been duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier resignation, death or removal. Subject to the rights, if any, of the holders of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock to elect Directors, when the number of Directors is increased or decreased, the Board of Directors shall, subject to Article VI, Section 3 hereof, determine the class or classes to which the increased or decreased number of Directors shall be apportioned; provided, however, that no decrease in the number of Directors shall shorten the term of any incumbent Director. In the event of a vacancy in the Board of Directors, the remaining Directors, except as otherwise provided by law, shall exercise the powers of the full Board of Directors until the vacancy is filled.

 

5. Removal. Subject to the rights, if any, of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock to elect Directors and to remove any Director whom the holders of any such series have the right to elect, any Director (including persons elected by Directors to fill vacancies in the Board of Directors) may be removed from office (i) only with cause and (ii) only by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of capital stock then entitled to vote at an election of Directors. At least forty-five (45) days prior to any annual or special meeting of stockholders at which it is proposed that any Director be removed from office, written notice of such proposed removal and the alleged grounds thereof shall be sent to the Director whose removal will be considered at the meeting.

 

Article VII

 

Limitation of Liability

 

1. Limitation of Director Liability. A Director of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of his or her fiduciary duty as a Director, except for liability (a) for any breach of the Director’s duty of loyalty to the Corporation or its stockholders, (b) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (c) under Section 174 of the DGCL or (d) for any transaction from which the Director derived an improper personal benefit. If the DGCL is amended after the effective date of this Certificate 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 DGCL, as so amended.

 

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2. Any amendment, repeal or modification of this Article VII by either of (i) the stockholders of the Corporation or (ii) an amendment to the DGCL, shall not adversely affect any right or protection existing at the time of such amendment, repeal or modification with respect to any acts or omissions occurring before such amendment, repeal or modification of a person serving as a Director at the time of such amendment, repeal or modification.

 

3. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote thereon, and the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class, shall be required to amend or repeal any provision of this Article VII.

 

Article VIII

 

Amendment of By-Laws

 

1. Amendment by Directors. Except as otherwise provided by law, the By-laws of the Corporation may be amended or repealed by the Board of Directors by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Directors then in office.

 

2. Amendment by Stockholders. Except as otherwise provided therein, the By-laws of the Corporation may be amended or repealed at any annual meeting of stockholders, or special meeting of stockholders called for such purpose, by the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote on such amendment or repeal, voting together as a single class; provided, however, that if the Board of Directors recommends that stockholders approve such amendment or repeal at such meeting of stockholders, such amendment or repeal shall only require the affirmative vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote on such amendment or repeal, voting together as a single class.

 

Article IX

 

Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation

 

The Corporation reserves the right to amend or repeal this Certificate in the manner now or hereafter prescribed by statute and this Certificate, and all rights conferred upon stockholders herein are granted subject to this reservation. Except as otherwise required by this Certificate or by law, whenever any vote of the holders of capital stock of the Corporation is required to amend or repeal any provision of this Certificate, such amendment or repeal shall require the affirmative vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote on such amendment or repeal, and the affirmative vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class, at a duly constituted meeting of stockholders called expressly for such purpose.

 

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Article X

 

Business Combinations

 

1. Opt Out of DGCL 203. The Corporation shall not be governed by Section 203 of the DGCL.

 

2. Excluded Opportunity. The Corporation renounces 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, any Director of the Corporation who is not an employee or officer of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries (a “Covered Person”), 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.

 

THIS SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION is executed as of this 9th day of September, 2021.

 

  BLUE WATER ACQUISITION CORP.
   
  By: /s/ Robert E. Dudley
  Name:  Robert E. Dudley
  Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

 

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Exhibit 3.2

 

AMENDED AND RESTATED
BY-LAWS
OF
CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.

 

(the “Corporation”)

 

Article I.

 

Stockholders

 

Section 1. Annual Meeting. The annual meeting of stockholders (any such meeting being referred to in these By-laws as an “Annual Meeting”) shall be held at the hour, date and place within or without the United States which is fixed by the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the “Board of Directors”), which time, date and place may subsequently be changed at any time by vote of the Board of Directors. If no Annual Meeting has been held for a period of thirteen (13) months after the Corporation’s last Annual Meeting, a special meeting in lieu thereof may be held, and such special meeting shall have, for the purposes of these By-laws or otherwise, all the force and effect of an Annual Meeting. Any and all references hereafter in these By-laws to an Annual Meeting or Annual Meetings also shall be deemed to refer to any special meeting(s) in lieu thereof.

 

Section 2. Notice of Stockholder Business and Nominations.

 

(a) Annual Meetings of Stockholders.

 

(1) Nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors and the proposal of other business to be considered by the stockholders may be brought before an Annual Meeting (i) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors or (ii) by any stockholder of the Corporation who was a stockholder of record at the time of giving of notice provided for in these By-laws, who is entitled to vote at the meeting, who is present (in person or by proxy) at the meeting and who complies with the notice procedures set forth in these By-laws as to such nomination or business. For the avoidance of doubt, the foregoing clause (ii) shall be the exclusive means for a stockholder to bring nominations or business properly before an Annual Meeting (other than matters properly brought under Rule 14a-8 (or any successor rule) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), and such stockholder must comply with the notice and other procedures set forth in Article ISection 2(a)(2) and (3) of these By-laws to bring such nominations or business properly before an Annual Meeting. In addition to the other requirements set forth in these By-laws, for any proposal of business to be considered at an Annual Meeting, it must be a proper subject for action by stockholders of the Corporation under Delaware law.

 

 

 

(2) For nominations or other business to be properly brought before an Annual Meeting by a stockholder pursuant to clause (ii) of Article ISection 2(a)(1) of these By-laws, the stockholder must (i) have given Timely Notice (as defined below) thereof in writing to the Secretary of the Corporation, (ii) have provided any updates or supplements to such notice at the times and in the forms required by these By-laws and (iii) together with the beneficial owner(s), if any, on whose behalf the nomination or business proposal is made, have acted in accordance with the representations set forth in the Solicitation Statement (as defined below) required by these By-laws. To be timely, a stockholder’s written notice shall be received by the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the ninetieth (90th) day nor earlier than the close of business on the one hundred twentieth (120th) day prior to the one-year anniversary of the preceding year’s Annual Meeting; providedhowever, that in the event the Annual Meeting is first convened more than thirty (30) days before or more than sixty (60) days after such anniversary date, or if no Annual Meeting were held in the preceding year, notice by the stockholder to be timely must be received by the Secretary of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the later of the ninetieth (90th) day prior to the scheduled date of such Annual Meeting or the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made (such notice within such time periods shall be referred to as “Timely Notice”). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary provided herein, for the first Annual Meeting following the initial public offering of common stock of the Corporation, a stockholder’s notice shall be timely if received by the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the later of the ninetieth (90th) day prior to the scheduled date of such Annual Meeting or the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such Annual Meeting is first made or sent by the Corporation. Such stockholder’s Timely Notice shall set forth:

 

(A) as to each person whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election or reelection as a director, (i) the name, age, business address and residence address of the nominee, (ii) the principal occupation or employment of the nominee, (iii) the class and number of shares of the Corporation that are held of record or are beneficially owned by the nominee and any derivative positions held or beneficially held by the nominee, (iv) whether and the extent to which any hedging or other transaction or series of transactions has been entered into by or on behalf of the nominee with respect to any securities of the Corporation, and a description of any other agreement, arrangement or understanding (including any short position or any borrowing or lending of shares), the effect or intent of which is to mitigate loss to, or to manage the risk or benefit of share price changes for, or to increase or decrease the voting power of the nominee, (v) a description of all arrangements or understandings between or among the stockholder and each nominee and any other person or persons (naming such person or persons) pursuant to which the nominations are to be made by the stockholder or concerning the nominee’s potential service on the Board of Directors, (vi) a written statement executed by the nominee acknowledging that as a director of the corporation, the nominee will owe fiduciary duties under Delaware law with respect to the Corporation and its stockholders, and (vii) all information relating to such person that is required to be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for election of directors in an election contest, or is otherwise required, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act (including such person’s written consent to being named in the proxy statement as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected);

 

(B) as to any other business that the stockholder proposes to bring before the meeting, a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the meeting, the reasons for conducting such business at the meeting, the text, if any, of any resolutions or By-law amendment proposed for adoption, and any material interest in such business of each Proposing Person (as defined below);

 

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(C) (i) the name and address of the stockholder giving the notice, as they appear on the Corporation’s books, and the names and addresses of the other Proposing Persons (if any) and (ii) as to each Proposing Person, the following information: (a) the class or series and number of all shares of capital stock of the Corporation which are, directly or indirectly, owned beneficially or of record by such Proposing Person or any of its affiliates or associates (as such terms are defined in Rule 12b-2 promulgated under the Exchange Act), including any shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation as to which such Proposing Person or any of its affiliates or associates has a right to acquire beneficial ownership at any time in the future, (b) all Synthetic Equity Interests (as defined below) in which such Proposing Person or any of its affiliates or associates, directly or indirectly, holds an interest including a description of the material terms of each such Synthetic Equity Interest, including without limitation, identification of the counterparty to each such Synthetic Equity Interest and disclosure, for each such Synthetic Equity Interest, as to (x) whether or not such Synthetic Equity Interest conveys any voting rights, directly or indirectly, in such shares to such Proposing Person, (y) whether or not such Synthetic Equity Interest is required to be, or is capable of being, settled through delivery of such shares and (z) whether or not such Proposing Person and/or, to the extent known, the counterparty to such Synthetic Equity Interest has entered into other transactions that hedge or mitigate the economic effect of such Synthetic Equity Interest, (c) any proxy (other than a revocable proxy given in response to a public proxy solicitation made pursuant to, and in accordance with, the Exchange Act), agreement, arrangement, understanding or relationship pursuant to which such Proposing Person has or shares a right to, directly or indirectly, vote any shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, (d) any rights to dividends or other distributions on the shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, directly or indirectly, owned beneficially by such Proposing Person that are separated or separable from the underlying shares of the Corporation, and (e) any performance-related fees (other than an asset based fee) that such Proposing Person, directly or indirectly, is entitled to based on any increase or decrease in the value of shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation or any Synthetic Equity Interests (the disclosures to be made pursuant to the foregoing clauses (a) through (e) are referred to, collectively, as “Material Ownership Interests”) and (iii) a description of the material terms of all agreements, arrangements or understandings (whether or not in writing) entered into by any Proposing Person or any of its affiliates or associates with any other person for the purpose of acquiring, holding, disposing or voting of any shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation;

 

(D) (i) a description of all agreements, arrangements or understandings by and among any of the Proposing Persons, or by and among any Proposing Persons and any other person (including with any proposed nominee(s)), pertaining to the nomination(s), or other business proposed to be brought before the meeting of stockholders (which description shall identify the name of each other person who is party to such an agreement, arrangement or understanding), and (ii) identification of the names and addresses of other stockholders (including beneficial owners) known by any of the Proposing Persons to support such nominations or other business proposal(s), and to the extent known the class and number of all shares of the Corporation’s capital stock owned beneficially or of record by such other stockholder(s) or other beneficial owner(s); and

 

(E) a statement whether or not the stockholder giving the notice and/or the other Proposing Person(s), if any, will deliver a proxy statement and form of proxy to holders of, in the case of a business proposal, at least the percentage of voting power of all of the shares of capital stock of the Corporation required under applicable law to approve the proposal or, in the case of a nomination or nominations, at least the percentage of voting power of all of the shares of capital stock of the Corporation reasonably believed by such Proposing Person to be sufficient to elect the nominee or nominees proposed to be nominated by such stockholder (such statement, the “Solicitation Statement”).

 

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For purposes of this Article I of these By-laws, the term “Proposing Person” shall mean the following persons: (i) the stockholder of record providing the notice of nominations or business proposed to be brought before a stockholders’ meeting, and (ii) the beneficial owner(s), if different, on whose behalf the nominations or business proposed to be brought before a stockholders’ meeting is made. For purposes of this Section 2 of Article I of these By-laws, the term “Synthetic Equity Interest” shall mean any transaction, agreement or arrangement (or series of transactions, agreements or arrangements), including, without limitation, any derivative, swap, hedge, repurchase or so-called “stock borrowing” agreement or arrangement, the purpose or effect of which is to, directly or indirectly: (a) give a person or entity economic benefit and/or risk similar to ownership of shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, in whole or in part, including due to the fact that such transaction, agreement or arrangement provides, directly or indirectly, the opportunity to profit or avoid a loss from any increase or decrease in the value of any shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, (b) mitigate loss to, reduce the economic risk of or manage the risk of share price changes for, any person or entity with respect to any shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, (c) otherwise provide in any manner the opportunity to profit or avoid a loss from any decrease in the value of any shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, or (d) increase or decrease the voting power of any person or entity with respect to any shares of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation.

 

(3) A stockholder providing Timely Notice of nominations or business proposed to be brought before an Annual Meeting shall further update and supplement such notice, if necessary, so that the information (including, without limitation, the Material Ownership Interests information) provided or required to be provided in such notice pursuant to these By-laws shall be true and correct as of the record date for the meeting and as of the date that is ten (10) business days prior to such Annual Meeting, and such update and supplement shall be received by the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the fifth (5th) business day after the record date for the Annual Meeting (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of the record date), and not later than the close of business on the eighth (8th) business day prior to the date of the Annual Meeting (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of ten (10) business days prior to the meeting).

 

(4) Notwithstanding anything in the second sentence of Article ISection 2(a)(2) of these By-laws to the contrary, in the event that the number of directors to be elected to the Board of Directors is increased and there is no public announcement naming all of the nominees for director or specifying the size of the increased Board of Directors made by the Corporation at least ten (10) days before the last day a stockholder may deliver a notice of nomination in accordance with the second sentence of Article ISection 2(a)(2), a stockholder’s notice required by these By-laws shall also be considered timely, but only with respect to nominees for any new positions created by such increase, if it shall be received by the Secretary of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the tenth (10th) day following the day on which such public announcement is first made by the Corporation.

 

(b) General.

 

(1) Only such persons who are nominated in accordance with the provisions of these By-laws shall be eligible for election and to serve as directors and only such business shall be conducted at an Annual Meeting as shall have been brought before the meeting in accordance with the provisions of these By-laws or in accordance with Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act. The Board of Directors or a designated committee thereof shall have the power to determine whether a nomination or any business proposed to be brought before the meeting was made in accordance with the provisions of these By-laws. If neither the Board of Directors nor such designated committee makes a determination as to whether any stockholder proposal or nomination was made in accordance with the provisions of these By-laws, the presiding officer of the Annual Meeting shall have the power and duty to determine whether the stockholder proposal or nomination was made in accordance with the provisions of these By-laws If the Board of Directors or a designated committee thereof or the presiding officer, as applicable, determines that any stockholder proposal or nomination was not made in accordance with the provisions of these By-laws, such proposal or nomination shall be disregarded and shall not be presented for action at the Annual Meeting.

 

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(2) Except as otherwise required by law, nothing in this Article ISection 2 shall obligate the Corporation or the Board of Directors to include in any proxy statement or other stockholder communication distributed on behalf of the Corporation or the Board of Directors information with respect to any nominee for director or any other matter of business submitted by a stockholder.

 

(3) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Article ISection 2, if the nominating or proposing stockholder (or a qualified representative of the stockholder) does not appear at the Annual Meeting to present a nomination or any business, such nomination or business shall be disregarded, notwithstanding that proxies in respect of such vote may have been received by the Corporation. For purposes of this Article ISection 2, to be considered a qualified representative of the proposing stockholder, a person must be authorized by a written instrument executed by such stockholder or an electronic transmission delivered by such stockholder to act for such stockholder as proxy at the meeting of stockholders and such person must produce such written instrument or electronic transmission, or a reliable reproduction of the written instrument or electronic transmission, to the presiding officer at the meeting of stockholders.

 

(4) For purposes of these By-laws, “public announcement” shall mean disclosure in a press release reported by the Dow Jones News Service, Associated Press or comparable national news service or in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.

 

(5) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of these By-laws, a stockholder shall also comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder with respect to the matters set forth in these By-laws. Nothing in these By-laws shall be deemed to affect any rights of (i) stockholders to have proposals included in the Corporation’s proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a-8 (or any successor rule), as applicable, under the Exchange Act and, to the extent required by such rule, have such proposals considered and voted on at an Annual Meeting or (ii) the holders of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock to elect directors under specified circumstances.

 

(c) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote thereon, and the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class, shall be required to amend or repeal any provision of this Article ISection 2providedhowever, that if the Board of Directors recommends that stockholders approve such amendment or repeal at such meeting of stockholders, such amendment or repeal shall only require the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote on such amendment or repeal, voting together as a single class.

 

Section 3. Special Meetings. Except as otherwise required by statute and subject to the rights, if any, of the holders of any series of Undesignated Preferred Stock, special meetings of the stockholders of the Corporation may be called only by the Board of Directors acting pursuant to a resolution approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Directors then in office. The Board of Directors may postpone or reschedule any previously scheduled special meeting of stockholders. Only those matters set forth in the notice of the special meeting may be considered or acted upon at a special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation. Nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors and stockholder proposals of other business shall not be brought before a special meeting of stockholders to be considered by the stockholders unless such special meeting is held in lieu of an annual meeting of stockholders in accordance with Article ISection 1 of these By-laws, in which case such special meeting in lieu thereof shall be deemed an Annual Meeting for purposes of these By-laws and the provisions of Article ISection 2 of these By-laws shall govern such special meeting.

 

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Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote thereon, and the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class, shall be required to amend or repeal any provision of this Article ISection 3providedhowever, that if the Board of Directors recommends that stockholders approve such amendment or repeal at such meeting of stockholders, such amendment or repeal shall only require the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote on such amendment or repeal, voting together as a single class.

 

Section 4. Notice of Meetings; Adjournments.

 

(a) A notice of each Annual Meeting stating the hour, date and place, if any, of such Annual Meeting and 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 not less than ten (10) days nor more than sixty (60) days before the Annual Meeting, to each stockholder entitled to vote thereat by delivering such notice to such stockholder or by mailing it, postage prepaid, addressed to such stockholder at the address of such stockholder as it appears on the Corporation’s stock transfer books. Without limiting the manner by which notice may otherwise be given to stockholders, any notice to stockholders may be given by electronic transmission in the manner provided in Section 232 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (“DGCL”).

 

(b) Unless otherwise required by the DGCL, notice of all special meetings of stockholders shall be given in the same manner as provided for Annual Meetings, except that the notice of all special meetings shall state the purpose or purposes for which the meeting has been called.

 

(c) Notice of an Annual Meeting or special meeting of stockholders need not be given to a stockholder if a waiver of notice is executed, or waiver of notice by electronic transmission is provided, before or after such meeting by such stockholder or if such stockholder attends such meeting, unless such attendance is for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning of the meeting to the transaction of any business because the meeting was not lawfully called or convened.

 

(d) The Board of Directors may postpone and reschedule any previously scheduled Annual Meeting or special meeting of stockholders and any record date with respect thereto, regardless of whether any notice or public disclosure with respect to any such meeting has been sent or made pursuant to Section 2 of this Article I of these By-laws or otherwise. In no event shall the public announcement of an adjournment, postponement or rescheduling of any previously scheduled meeting of stockholders commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholder’s notice under this Article I of these By-laws.

 

(e) When any meeting is convened, the presiding officer may adjourn the meeting if (i) no quorum is present for the transaction of business, (ii) the Board of Directors determines that adjournment is necessary or appropriate to enable the stockholders to consider fully information which the Board of Directors determines has not been made sufficiently or timely available to stockholders, or (iii) the Board of Directors determines that adjournment is otherwise in the best interests of the Corporation. When any Annual Meeting or special meeting of stockholders is adjourned to another hour, date or place, notice need not be given of the adjourned meeting other than an announcement at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken of the hour, date and place, if any, to which the meeting is adjourned and the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxyholders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such adjourned meeting; providedhowever, that if the adjournment is for more than thirty (30) days from the meeting date, or if after the adjournment a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting, notice of the adjourned meeting and the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxyholders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote thereat and each stockholder who, by law or under the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation (as the same may hereafter be amended and/or restated, the “Certificate”) or these By-laws, is entitled to such notice.

 

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Section 5. Quorum. A majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of stockholders. If less than a quorum is present at a meeting, the holders of voting stock representing a majority of the voting power present at the meeting or the presiding officer may adjourn the meeting from time to time, and the meeting may be held as adjourned without further notice, except as provided in Section 4 of this Article I. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally noticed. The stockholders present at a duly constituted meeting may continue to transact business until adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal of enough stockholders to leave less than a quorum.

 

Section 6. Voting and Proxies. Stockholders shall have one vote for each share of stock entitled to vote owned by them of record according to the stock ledger of the Corporation as of the record date, unless otherwise provided by law or by the Certificate. Stockholders may vote either (i) in person, (ii) by written proxy or (iii) by a transmission permitted by Section 212(c) of the DGCL. Any copy, facsimile telecommunication or other reliable reproduction of the writing or transmission permitted by Section 212(c) of the DGCL may be substituted for or used in lieu of the original writing or transmission for any and all purposes for which the original writing or transmission could be used, provided that such copy, facsimile telecommunication or other reproduction shall be a complete reproduction of the entire original writing or transmission. Proxies shall be filed in accordance with the procedures established for the meeting of stockholders. Except as otherwise limited therein or as otherwise provided by law, proxies authorizing a person to vote at a specific meeting shall entitle the persons authorized thereby to vote at any adjournment of such meeting, but they shall not be valid after final adjournment of such meeting. A proxy with respect to stock held in the name of two or more persons shall be valid if executed by or on behalf of any one of them unless at or prior to the exercise of the proxy the Corporation receives a specific written notice to the contrary from any one of them.

 

Section 7. Action at Meeting. When a quorum is present at any meeting of stockholders, any matter before any such meeting (other than an election of a director or directors) shall be decided by a majority of the votes properly cast for and against such matter, except where a larger vote is required by law, by the Certificate or by these By-laws. Any election of directors by stockholders shall be determined by a plurality of the votes properly cast on the election of directors.

 

Section 8. Stockholder Lists. The Secretary or an Assistant Secretary (or the Corporation’s transfer agent or other person authorized by these By-laws or by law) shall prepare and make, at least ten (10) days before every Annual Meeting or special meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for a period of at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting in the manner provided by law. The list shall also be open to the examination of any stockholder during the whole time of the meeting as provided by law.

 

Section 9. Presiding Officer. The Board of Directors shall designate a representative to preside over all Annual Meetings or special meetings of stockholders, provided that if the Board of Directors does not so designate such a presiding officer, then the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, shall preside over such meetings. If the Board of Directors does not so designate such a presiding officer and there is no Chairman of the Board or the Chairman of the Board is unable to so preside or is absent, then the Chief Executive Officer, if one is elected, shall preside over such meetings, provided further that if there is no Chief Executive Officer or the Chief Executive Officer is unable to so preside or is absent, then the President shall preside over such meetings. The presiding officer at any Annual Meeting or special meeting of stockholders shall have the power, among other things, to adjourn such meeting at any time and from time to time, subject to Sections 4 and 5 of this Article I. The order of business and all other matters of procedure at any meeting of the stockholders shall be determined by the presiding officer.

 

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Section 10. Inspectors of Elections. The Corporation shall, in advance of any meeting of stockholders, appoint one or more inspectors to act at the meeting and make a written report thereof. The Corporation may designate one or more persons as alternate inspectors to replace any inspector who fails to act. If no inspector or alternate is able to act at a meeting of stockholders, the presiding officer shall appoint one or more inspectors to act at the meeting. Any inspector may, but need not, be an officer, employee or agent of the Corporation. Each inspector, before entering upon the discharge of his or her duties, shall take and sign an oath faithfully to execute the duties of inspector with strict impartiality and according to the best of his or her ability. The inspectors shall perform such duties as are required by the DGCL, including the counting of all votes and ballots. The inspectors may appoint or retain other persons or entities to assist the inspectors in the performance of the duties of the inspectors. The presiding officer may review all determinations made by the inspectors, and in so doing the presiding officer shall be entitled to exercise his or her sole judgment and discretion and he or she shall not be bound by any determinations made by the inspectors. All determinations by the inspectors and, if applicable, the presiding officer, shall be subject to further review by any court of competent jurisdiction.

 

Article II.

 

Directors

 

Section 1. Powers. The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of the Board of Directors except as otherwise provided by the Certificate or required by law.

 

Section 2. Number and Terms. The number of directors of the Corporation shall be fixed solely and exclusively by resolution duly adopted from time to time by the Board of Directors. The directors shall hold office in the manner provided in the Certificate.

 

Section 3. Qualification. No director need be a stockholder of the Corporation.

 

Section 4. Vacancies. Vacancies in the Board of Directors shall be filled in the manner provided in the Certificate.

 

Section 5. Removal. Directors may be removed from office only in the manner provided in the Certificate.

 

Section 6. Resignation. A director may resign at any time by electronic transmission or by giving written notice to the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, the President or the Secretary. A resignation shall be effective upon receipt, unless the resignation otherwise provides.

 

Section 7. Regular Meetings. Regular meetings (including any annual meeting) of the Board of Directors may be held at such hour, date and place as the Board of Directors may by resolution from time to time determine and publicize by means of reasonable notice given to any director who is not present at the meeting at which such resolution is adopted.

 

Section 8. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called, orally or in writing, by or at the request of a majority of the directors, the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, or the President. The person calling any such special meeting of the Board of Directors may fix the hour, date and place thereof.

 

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Section 9. Notice of Meetings. Notice of the hour, date and place of all special meetings of the Board of Directors shall be given to each director by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary, or in case of the death, absence, incapacity or refusal of such persons, by the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, or the President or such other officer designated by the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, or the President. Notice of any special meeting of the Board of Directors shall be given to each director in person, by telephone, or by facsimile, electronic mail or other form of electronic communication, sent to his or her business or home address, at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the meeting, or by written notice mailed to his or her business or home address, at least forty-eight (48) hours in advance of the meeting. Such notice shall be deemed to be delivered when hand-delivered to such address, read to such director by telephone, deposited in the mail so addressed, with postage thereon prepaid if mailed, dispatched or transmitted if sent by facsimile transmission or by electronic mail or other form of electronic communications. A written waiver of notice signed or electronically transmitted before or after a meeting by a director and filed with the records of the meeting shall be deemed to be equivalent to notice of the meeting. The attendance of a director at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where a director attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning of the meeting to the transaction of any business because such meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Except as otherwise required by law, by the Certificate or by these By-laws, neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any meeting of the Board of Directors need be specified in the notice or waiver of notice of such meeting.

 

Section 10. Quorum. At any meeting of the Board of Directors, a majority of the total number of directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, but if less than a quorum is present at a meeting, a majority of the directors present may adjourn the meeting from time to time, and the meeting may be held as adjourned without further notice. Any business which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally noticed may be transacted at such adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present. For purposes of this section, the total number of directors includes any unfilled vacancies on the Board of Directors.

 

Section 11. Action at Meeting. At any meeting of the Board of Directors at which a quorum is present, the vote of a majority of the directors present shall constitute action by the Board of Directors, unless otherwise required by law, by the Certificate or by these By-laws.

 

Section 12. Action by Consent. Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board of Directors consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission and the writing or writings or electronic transmission or transmissions are filed with the records of the meetings of the Board of Directors. Such filing shall be in paper form if the minutes are maintained in paper form and shall be in electronic form if the minutes are maintained in electronic form. Such consent shall be treated as a resolution of the Board of Directors for all purposes.

 

Section 13. Manner of Participation. Directors may participate in meetings of the Board of Directors by means of conference telephone or other communications equipment by means of which all directors participating in the meeting can hear each other, and participation in a meeting in accordance herewith shall constitute presence in person at such meeting for purposes of these By-laws.

 

Section 14. Presiding Director. The Board of Directors shall designate a representative to preside over all meetings of the Board of Directors, provided that if the Board of Directors does not so designate such a presiding director or such designated presiding director is unable to so preside or is absent, then the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, shall preside over all meetings of the Board of Directors. If both the designated presiding director, if one is so designated, and the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, are unable to preside or are absent, the Board of Directors shall designate an alternate representative to preside over a meeting of the Board of Directors.

 

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Section 15. Committees. The Board of Directors, by vote of a majority of the directors then in office, may elect one or more committees, including, without limitation, a Compensation Committee, a Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee and an Audit Committee, and may delegate thereto some or all of its powers except those which by law, by the Certificate or by these By-laws may not be delegated. Except as the Board of Directors may otherwise determine, any such committee may make rules for the conduct of its business, but unless otherwise provided by the Board of Directors or in such rules, its business shall be conducted so far as possible in the same manner as is provided by these By-laws for the Board of Directors. All members of such committees shall hold such offices at the pleasure of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may abolish any such committee at any time. Any committee to which the Board of Directors delegates any of its powers or duties shall keep records of its meetings and shall report its action to the Board of Directors.

 

Section 16. Compensation of Directors. Directors shall receive such compensation for their services as shall be determined by a majority of the Board of Directors, or a designated committee thereof, provided that directors who are serving the Corporation as employees and who receive compensation for their services as such, shall not receive any salary or other compensation for their services as directors of the Corporation.

 

Article III.

 

Officers

 

Section 1. Enumeration. The officers of the Corporation shall consist of a President, a Treasurer, a Secretary and such other officers, including, without limitation, a Chairman of the Board of Directors, a Chief Executive Officer and one or more Vice Presidents (including Executive Vice Presidents or Senior Vice Presidents), Assistant Vice Presidents, Assistant Treasurers and Assistant Secretaries, as the Board of Directors may determine.

 

Section 2. Election. At the regular annual meeting of the Board of Directors following the Annual Meeting, the Board of Directors shall elect the President, the Treasurer and the Secretary. Other officers may be elected by the Board of Directors at such regular annual meeting of the Board of Directors or at any other regular or special meeting.

 

Section 3. Qualification. No officer need be a stockholder or a director. Any person may occupy more than one office of the Corporation at any time.

 

Section 4. Tenure. Except as otherwise provided by the Certificate or by these By-laws, each of the officers of the Corporation shall hold office until the regular annual meeting of the Board of Directors following the next Annual Meeting and until his or her successor is elected and qualified or until his or her earlier resignation or removal.

 

Section 5. Resignation. Any officer may resign by delivering his or her written or electronically transmitted resignation to the Corporation addressed to the President or the Secretary, and such resignation shall be effective upon receipt, unless the resignation otherwise provides.

 

Section 6. Removal. Except as otherwise provided by law or by resolution of the Board of Directors, the Board of Directors may remove any officer with or without cause by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office.

 

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Section 7. Absence or Disability. In the event of the absence or disability of any officer, the Board of Directors may designate another officer to act temporarily in place of such absent or disabled officer.

 

Section 8. Vacancies. Any vacancy in any office may be filled for the unexpired portion of the term by the Board of Directors.

 

Section 9. President. The President shall, subject to the direction of the Board of Directors, have such powers and shall perform such duties as the Board of Directors may from time to time designate.

 

Section 10. Chairman of the Board. The Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, shall have such powers and shall perform such duties as the Board of Directors may from time to time designate.

 

Section 11. Chief Executive Officer. The Chief Executive Officer, if one is elected, shall have such powers and shall perform such duties as the Board of Directors may from time to time designate.

 

Section 12. Vice Presidents and Assistant Vice Presidents. Any Vice President (including any Executive Vice President or Senior Vice President) and any Assistant Vice President shall have such powers and shall perform such duties as the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer may from time to time designate.

 

Section 13. Treasurer and Assistant Treasurers. The Treasurer shall, subject to the direction of the Board of Directors and except as the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer may otherwise provide, have general charge of the financial affairs of the Corporation and shall cause to be kept accurate books of account. The Treasurer shall have custody of all funds, securities, and valuable documents of the Corporation. He or she shall have such other duties and powers as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer. Any Assistant Treasurer shall have such powers and perform such duties as the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer may from time to time designate.

 

Section 14. Secretary and Assistant Secretaries. The Secretary shall record all the proceedings of the meetings of the stockholders and the Board of Directors (including committees of the Board of Directors) in books kept for that purpose. In his or her absence from any such meeting, a temporary secretary chosen at the meeting shall record the proceedings thereof. The Secretary shall have charge of the stock ledger (which may, however, be kept by any transfer or other agent of the Corporation). The Secretary shall have custody of the seal of the Corporation, and the Secretary, or an Assistant Secretary shall have authority to affix it to any instrument requiring it, and, when so affixed, the seal may be attested by his or her signature or that of an Assistant Secretary. The Secretary shall have such other duties and powers as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer. In the absence of the Secretary, any Assistant Secretary may perform his or her duties and responsibilities. Any Assistant Secretary shall have such powers and perform such duties as the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer may from time to time designate.

 

Section 15. Other Powers and Duties. Subject to these By-laws and to such limitations as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe, the officers of the Corporation shall each have such powers and duties as generally pertain to their respective offices, as well as such powers and duties as from time to time may be conferred by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer.

 

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Article IV.

 

Capital Stock

 

Section 1. Certificates of Stock. Each stockholder shall be entitled to a certificate of the capital stock of the Corporation in such form as may from time to time be prescribed by the Board of Directors. Such certificate shall be signed by any two authorized officers of the Corporation. The Corporation seal and the signatures by the Corporation’s officers, the transfer agent or the registrar may be facsimiles. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed on such certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if he or she were such officer, transfer agent or registrar at the time of its issue. Every certificate for shares of stock which are subject to any restriction on transfer and every certificate issued when the Corporation is authorized to issue more than one class or series of stock shall contain such legend with respect thereto as is required by law. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary provided in these By-laws, the Board of Directors may provide by resolution or resolutions that some or all of any or all classes or series of its stock shall be uncertificated shares (except that the foregoing shall not apply to shares represented by a certificate until such certificate is surrendered to the Corporation), and by the approval and adoption of these By-laws the Board of Directors has determined that all classes or series of the Corporation’s stock may be uncertificated, whether upon original issuance, re-issuance, or subsequent transfer.

 

Section 2. Transfers. Subject to any restrictions on transfer and unless otherwise provided by the Board of Directors, shares of stock that are represented by a certificate may be transferred on the books of the Corporation by the surrender to the Corporation or its transfer agent of the certificate theretofore properly endorsed or accompanied by a written assignment or power of attorney properly executed, with transfer stamps (if necessary) affixed, and with such proof of the authenticity of signature as the Corporation or its transfer agent may reasonably require. Shares of stock that are not represented by a certificate may be transferred on the books of the Corporation by submitting to the Corporation or its transfer agent such evidence of transfer and following such other procedures as the Corporation or its transfer agent may require.

 

Section 3. Record Holders. Except as may otherwise be required by law, by the Certificate or by these By-laws, the Corporation shall be entitled to treat the record holder of stock as shown on its books as the owner of such stock for all purposes, including the payment of dividends and the right to vote with respect thereto, regardless of any transfer, pledge or other disposition of such stock, until the shares have been transferred on the books of the Corporation in accordance with the requirements of these By-laws.

 

Section 4. 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 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 record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the Board of Directors, and which record date: (a) in the case of determination of stockholders entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders, shall, unless otherwise required by law, not be more than sixty (60) nor less than ten (10) days before the date of such meeting and (b) in the case of any other action, shall not be more than sixty (60) days prior to such other action. If no record date is fixed: (i) the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice is given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held; and (ii) the record date for determining stockholders for any other purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board of Directors adopts the resolution relating thereto.

 

Section 5. Replacement of Certificates. In case of the alleged loss, destruction or mutilation of a certificate of stock of the Corporation, a duplicate certificate may be issued in place thereof, upon such terms as the Board of Directors may prescribe.

 

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Article V.

 

Indemnification

 

Section 1. Definitions. For purposes of this Article:

 

(a) “Corporate Status” describes the status of a person who is serving or has served (i) as a Director of the Corporation, (ii) as an Officer of the Corporation, (iii) as a Non-Officer Employee of the Corporation, or (iv) as a director, partner, trustee, officer, employee or agent of any other corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan, foundation, association, organization or other legal entity which such person is or was serving at the request of the Corporation. For purposes of this Section 1(a), a Director, Officer or Non-Officer Employee of the Corporation who is serving or has served as a director, partner, trustee, officer, employee or agent of a Subsidiary shall be deemed to be serving at the request of the Corporation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, “Corporate Status” shall not include the status of a person who is serving or has served as a director, officer, employee or agent of a constituent corporation absorbed in a merger or consolidation transaction with the Corporation with respect to such person’s activities prior to said transaction, unless specifically authorized by the Board of Directors or the stockholders of the Corporation;

 

(b) “Director” means any person who serves or has served the Corporation as a director on the Board of Directors; including, for the avoidance of doubt, any person who has served as a director of Blue Water Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation;

 

(c) “Disinterested Director” means, with respect to each Proceeding in respect of which indemnification is sought hereunder, a Director of the Corporation who is not and was not a party to such Proceeding;

 

(d) “Expenses” means all reasonable, documented and out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees, retainers, court costs, transcript costs, fees of expert witnesses, private investigators and professional advisors (including, without limitation, accountants and investment bankers), travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, costs of preparation of demonstrative evidence and other courtroom presentation aids and devices, costs incurred in connection with document review, organization, imaging and computerization, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, and all other disbursements, costs or expenses of the type customarily incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in, settling or otherwise participating in, a Proceeding;

 

(e) “Liabilities” means judgments, damages, liabilities, losses, penalties, excise taxes, fines and amounts paid in settlement;

 

(f) “Non-Officer Employee” means any person who serves or has served as an employee or agent of the Corporation, but who is not or was not a Director or Officer;

 

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(g) “Officer” means any person who serves or has served the Corporation as an officer of the Corporation appointed by the Board of Directors, including, for the avoidance of doubt, any person who has served as an officer of Blue Water Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation;

 

(h) “Proceeding” means any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, inquiry, investigation, administrative hearing or other proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, arbitrative or investigative; and (i) “Subsidiary” shall mean any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other entity of which the Corporation owns (either directly or through or together with another Subsidiary of the Corporation) either (i) a general partner, managing member or other similar interest or (ii) (A) fifty percent (50%) or more of the voting power of the voting capital equity interests of such corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture or other entity, or (B) fifty percent (50%) or more of the outstanding voting capital stock or other voting equity interests of such corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture or other entity.

 

Section 2. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.

 

(a) Subject to the operation of Section 4 of this Article V of these By-laws, each Director and Officer shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Corporation to the fullest extent authorized by the DGCL, as the same exists or may hereafter be amended (but, in the case of any such amendment, only to the extent that such amendment permits the Corporation to provide broader indemnification rights than such law permitted the Corporation to provide prior to such amendment), and to the extent authorized in this Section 2.

 

(1) Actions, Suits and Proceedings Other than By or In the Right of the Corporation. Each Director and Officer shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Corporation against any and all Expenses and Liabilities that are incurred or paid by such Director or Officer or on such Director’s or Officer’s behalf in connection with any Proceeding or any claim, issue or matter therein (other than an action by or in the right of the Corporation), which such Director or Officer is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or participant in by reason of such Director’s or Officer’s Corporate Status, if such Director or Officer acted in good faith and in a manner such Director or Officer reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful.

 

(2) Actions, Suits and Proceedings By or In the Right of the Corporation. Each Director and Officer shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Corporation against any and all Expenses that are incurred by such Director or Officer or on such Director’s or Officer’s behalf in connection with any Proceeding or any claim, issue or matter therein by or in the right of the Corporation, which such Director or Officer is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or participant in by reason of such Director’s or Officer’s Corporate Status, if such Director or Officer acted in good faith and in a manner such Director or Officer reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation; provided, however, that no indemnification shall be made under this Section 2(a)(2) in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such Director or Officer shall have been finally adjudged by a court of competent jurisdiction to be liable to the Corporation, unless, and only to the extent that, the Court of Chancery or another court in which such Proceeding was brought shall determine upon application that, despite adjudication of liability, but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such Director or Officer is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification for such Expenses that such court deems proper.

 

(3) Survival of Rights. The rights of indemnification provided by this Section 2 shall continue as to a Director or Officer after he or she has ceased to be a Director or Officer and shall inure to the benefit of his or her heirs, executors, administrators and personal representatives.

 

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(4) Actions by Directors or Officers. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Corporation shall indemnify any Director or Officer seeking indemnification in connection with a Proceeding initiated by such Director or Officer only if such Proceeding (including any parts of such Proceeding not initiated by such Director or Officer) was authorized in advance by the Board of Directors, unless such Proceeding was brought to enforce such Officer’s or Director’s rights to indemnification or, in the case of Directors, advancement of Expenses under these By-laws in accordance with the provisions set forth herein.

 

Section 3. Indemnification of Non-Officer Employees. Subject to the operation of Section 4 of this Article V of these By-laws, each Non-Officer Employee may, in the discretion of the Board of Directors, be indemnified by the Corporation to the fullest extent authorized by the DGCL, as the same exists or may hereafter be amended, against any or all Expenses and Liabilities that are incurred by such Non-Officer Employee or on such Non-Officer Employee’s behalf in connection with any threatened, pending or completed Proceeding, or any claim, issue or matter therein, which such Non-Officer Employee is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or participant in by reason of such Non-Officer Employee’s Corporate Status, if such Non-Officer Employee acted in good faith and in a manner such Non-Officer Employee reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The rights of indemnification provided by this Section 3 shall exist as to a Non-Officer Employee after he or she has ceased to be a Non-Officer Employee and shall inure to the benefit of his or her heirs, personal representatives, executors and administrators. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Corporation may indemnify any Non-Officer Employee seeking indemnification in connection with a Proceeding initiated by such Non-Officer Employee only if such Proceeding was authorized in advance by the Board of Directors.

 

Section 4. Determination. Unless ordered by a court, no indemnification shall be provided pursuant to this Article V to a Director, to an Officer or to a Non-Officer Employee unless a determination shall have been made that such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation and, with respect to any criminal Proceeding, such person had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. Such determination shall be made by (a) a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors, even though less than a quorum of the Board of Directors, (b) a committee comprised of Disinterested Directors, such committee having been designated by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors (even though less than a quorum), (c) if there are no such Disinterested Directors, or if a majority of Disinterested Directors so directs, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion, or (d) by the stockholders of the Corporation.

 

Section 5. Advancement of Expenses to Directors Prior to Final Disposition.

 

(a) The Corporation shall advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of any Director in connection with any Proceeding in which such Director is involved by reason of such Director’s Corporate Status within thirty (30) days after the receipt by the Corporation of a written statement from such Director requesting such advance or advances from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by such Director and shall be preceded or accompanied by an undertaking by or on behalf of such Director to repay any Expenses so advanced if it shall ultimately be determined that such Director is not entitled to be indemnified against such Expenses. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Corporation shall advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of any Director seeking advancement of expenses hereunder in connection with a Proceeding initiated by such Director only if such Proceeding (including any parts of such Proceeding not initiated by such Director) was (i) authorized by the Board of Directors, or (ii) brought to enforce such Director’s rights to indemnification or advancement of Expenses under these By-laws.

 

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(b) If a claim for advancement of Expenses hereunder by a Director is not paid in full by the Corporation within thirty (30) days after receipt by the Corporation of documentation of Expenses and the required undertaking, such Director may at any time thereafter bring suit against the Corporation to recover the unpaid amount of the claim and if successful in whole or in part, such Director shall also be entitled to be paid the expenses of prosecuting or defending such suit. The failure of the Corporation (including its Board of Directors or any committee thereof, independent legal counsel, or stockholders) to make a determination concerning the permissibility of such advancement of Expenses under this Article V shall not be a defense to an action brought by a Director for recovery of the unpaid amount of an advancement claim and shall not create a presumption that such advancement is not permissible. The burden of proving that a Director is not entitled to an advancement of expenses shall be on the Corporation.

 

(c) In any suit brought by the Corporation to recover an advancement of expenses pursuant to the terms of an undertaking, the Corporation shall be entitled to recover such expenses upon a final adjudication that the Director has not met any applicable standard for indemnification set forth in the DGCL.

 

Section 6. Advancement of Expenses to Officers and Non-Officer Employees Prior to Final Disposition.

 

(a) The Corporation may, at the discretion of the Board of Directors, advance any or all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of any Officer or any Non-Officer Employee in connection with any Proceeding in which such person is involved by reason of his or her Corporate Status as an Officer or Non-Officer Employee upon the receipt by the Corporation of a statement or statements from such Officer or Non-Officer Employee requesting such advance or advances from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by such Officer or Non-Officer Employee and shall be preceded or accompanied by an undertaking by or on behalf of such person to repay any Expenses so advanced if it shall ultimately be determined that such Officer or Non-Officer Employee is not entitled to be indemnified against such Expenses.

 

(b) In any suit brought by the Corporation to recover an advancement of expenses pursuant to the terms of an undertaking, the Corporation shall be entitled to recover such expenses upon a final adjudication that the Officer or Non-Officer Employee has not met any applicable standard for indemnification set forth in the DGCL.

 

Section 7. Contractual Nature of Rights.

 

(a) The provisions of this Article V shall be deemed to be a contract between the Corporation and each Director and Officer entitled to the benefits hereof at any time while this Article V is in effect, in consideration of such person’s past or current and any future performance of services for the Corporation. Neither amendment, repeal or modification of any provision of this Article V nor the adoption of any provision of the Certificate of Incorporation inconsistent with this Article V shall eliminate or reduce any right conferred by this Article V in respect of any act or omission occurring, or any cause of action or claim that accrues or arises or any state of facts existing, at the time of or before such amendment, repeal, modification or adoption of an inconsistent provision (even in the case of a proceeding based on such a state of facts that is commenced after such time), and all rights to indemnification and advancement of Expenses granted herein or arising out of any act or omission shall vest at the time of the act or omission in question, regardless of when or if any proceeding with respect to such act or omission is commenced. The rights to indemnification and to advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Article V shall continue notwithstanding that the person has ceased to be a director or officer of the Corporation and shall inure to the benefit of the estate, heirs, executors, administrators, legatees and distributes of such person.

 

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(b) If a claim for indemnification (following final disposition of such Proceeding) or advancement of Expenses hereunder by a Director or Officer is not paid in full by the Corporation within sixty (60) days after receipt by the Corporation of a written claim for indemnification or advancement of Expenses, such Director or Officer may at any time thereafter bring suit against the Corporation to recover the unpaid amount of the claim, and if successful in whole or in part, pursuant to the terms of an undertaking, such Director or Officer shall also be entitled to be paid the expenses of prosecuting or defending such suit. The failure of the Corporation (including its Board of Directors or any committee thereof, independent legal counsel, or stockholders) to make a determination concerning the permissibility of such indemnification under this Article V shall not be a defense to an action brought by a Director or Officer for recovery of the unpaid amount of an indemnification claim and shall not create a presumption that such indemnification is not permissible. The burden of proving that a Director or Officer is not entitled to indemnification or advancement of Expenses shall be on the Corporation.

 

(c) In any suit brought by a Director or Officer to enforce a right to indemnification hereunder, it shall be a defense that such Director or Officer has not met any applicable standard for indemnification set forth in the DGCL.

 

Section 8. Non-Exclusivity of Rights. The rights to indemnification and to advancement of Expenses set forth in this Article V shall not be exclusive of any other right which any Director, Officer, or Non-Officer Employee may have or hereafter acquire under any statute, provision of the Certificate or these By-laws, agreement, vote of stockholders or Disinterested Directors or otherwise.

 

Section 9. Insurance. The Corporation may maintain insurance, at its expense, to protect itself and any Director, Officer or Non-Officer Employee against any liability of any character asserted against or incurred by the Corporation or any such Director, Officer or Non-Officer Employee, or arising out of any such person’s Corporate Status, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify such person against such liability under the DGCL or the provisions of this Article V.

 

Section 10. Other Indemnification. Subject to any other right which any Director, Officer or Non-Officer Employee may have or hereafter acquire under any statute, provision of the Certificate or these By-laws, agreement, vote of stockholders or Disinterested Directors or otherwise to the contrary, the Corporation’s obligation, if any, to indemnify or provide advancement of Expenses to any person under this Article V as a result of such person serving, at the request of the Corporation, as a director, partner, trustee, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall be reduced by any amount such person may collect as indemnification or advancement of Expenses from such other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or enterprise (the “Primary Indemnitor”). Subject to any other right which any Director, Officer or Non-Officer Employee may have or hereafter acquire under any statute, provision of the Certificate or these By-laws, agreement, vote of stockholders or Disinterested Directors or otherwise to the contrary, any indemnification or advancement of Expenses under this Article V owed by the Corporation as a result of a person serving, at the request of the Corporation, as a director, partner, trustee, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall only be in excess of, and shall be secondary to, the indemnification or advancement of Expenses available from the applicable Primary Indemnitor(s) and any applicable insurance policies.

 

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Article VI.

 

Miscellaneous Provisions

 

Section 1. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be determined by the Board of Directors.

 

Section 2. Seal. The Board of Directors shall have power to adopt and alter the seal of the Corporation.

 

Section 3. Execution of Instruments. All deeds, leases, transfers, contracts, bonds, notes and other obligations to be entered into by the Corporation in the ordinary course of its business without director action may be executed on behalf of the Corporation by the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, the President or the Treasurer or any other officer, employee or agent of the Corporation as the Board of Directors may authorize.

 

Section 4. Voting of Securities. Unless the Board of Directors otherwise provides, the Chairman of the Board, if one is elected, the President or the Treasurer may waive notice of and act on behalf of the Corporation (including with regard to voting and actions by written consent), or appoint another person or persons to act as proxy or attorney in fact for the Corporation with or without discretionary power and/or power of substitution, at any meeting of stockholders or shareholders of any other corporation or organization, any of whose securities are held by the Corporation.

 

Section 5. Resident Agent. The Board of Directors may appoint a resident agent upon whom legal process may be served in any action or proceeding against the Corporation.

 

Section 6. Corporate Records. The original or attested copies of the Certificate, By-laws and records of all meetings of the incorporators, stockholders and the Board of Directors and the stock transfer books, which shall contain the names of all stockholders, their record addresses and the amount of stock held by each, may be kept outside the State of Delaware and shall be kept at the principal office of the Corporation, at an office of its counsel, at an office of its transfer agent or at such other place or places as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors.

 

Section 7. Certificate. All references in these By-laws to the Certificate shall be deemed to refer to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation, as amended and/or restated and in effect from time to time.

 

Section 8. Exclusive Jurisdiction of Delaware Courts or the United States Federal District Courts. Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware shall be the sole and exclusive forum for any state law claims for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, (ii) any action asserting a claim of, or a claim based on, a breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any current or former director, officer or other employee of the Corporation to the Corporation or the Corporation’s stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law or the Certificate or Bylaws (including the interpretation, validity or enforceability thereof), or (iv) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine. Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the federal district courts of the United States of America shall be the sole and exclusive forum for resolving any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act. Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring any interest in shares of capital stock of the Corporation shall be deemed to have notice of and consented to the provisions of this Section 8.

 

Section 9. Amendment of By-laws.

 

(a) Amendment by Directors. Except as provided otherwise by law, any section or portion of these By-laws may be amended or repealed by the Board of Directors by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office.

 

(b) Amendment by Stockholders. These By-laws may be amended or repealed at any Annual Meeting, or special meeting of stockholders called for such purpose in accordance with these By-Laws, by the affirmative vote of at least two thirds (2/3) of the outstanding shares entitled to vote on such amendment or repeal, voting together as a single class; provided, however, that if the Board of Directors recommends that stockholders approve such amendment or repeal at such meeting of stockholders, such amendment or repeal shall only require the affirmative vote of the majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote on such amendment or repeal, voting together as a single class. Notwithstanding the foregoing, stockholder approval shall not be required unless mandated by the Certificate, these By-laws, or other applicable law.

 

Section 10. Notices. If mailed, notice to stockholders shall be deemed given when deposited in the mail, postage prepaid, directed to the stockholder at such stockholder’s address as it appears on the records of the Corporation. Without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given to stockholders, any notice to stockholders may be given by electronic transmission in the manner provided in Section 232 of the DGCL.

 

Section 11. Waivers. A written waiver of any notice, signed by a stockholder or director, or waiver by electronic transmission by such person, whether given before or after the time of the event for which notice is to be given, shall be deemed equivalent to the notice required to be given to such person. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any meeting need be specified in such a waiver.

 

 

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Exhibit 4.1

 

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

 

THIS REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is entered into as of September 9, 2021, by and among Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (formerly Blue Water Acquisition Corp.), a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and the parties listed as Investors on Schedule I hereto (each, an “Investor” and collectively, the “Investors”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company, Blue Water Merger Sub Corp., a Delaware corporation (“Merger Sub”), and Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Clarus”) have entered into that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 27, 2021 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the “Merger Agreement”), pursuant to which, among other things: (a) Merger Sub merged with and into Clarus (the “Merger”), with Clarus surviving the Merger as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Company;

 

WHEREAS, the Company and the Investors listed as Company Investors on Schedule I hereto (collectively, the “Company Investors”) are parties to that certain Registration Rights Agreement, dated December 15, 2020 (the “Prior Agreement”);

 

WHEREAS, the Company and the Company Investors desire to terminate 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;

 

WHEREAS, the Clarus Investors listed on Schedule I hereto (“Clarus Investors”) will receive shares of Common Stock in in connection with the consummation of the Merger; and

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows:

 

1. DEFINITIONS. The following capitalized terms used herein have the following meanings:

 

Addendum Agreement” is defined in Section 6.2.

 

Agreement” means this Agreement, as amended, restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time.

 

Business Day” means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close, excluding as a result of “stay at home”, “shelter-in-place”, non-essential employee” or any other similar orders or restrictions or the closure of any physical branch locations at the direction of any Authority so long as the electronic funds transfer systems, including for wire transfers, of commercial banking institutions in New York, New York are generally open for use by customers on such day.

 

Bylaws” means the bylaws of the Company, as amended, modified, supplemented or restated and in effect from time to time.

 

 

 

 

Certificate” means the certificate of incorporation of the Company, as amended, modified, supplemented or restated and in effect from time to time, including any certificate of designation, correction or amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.

 

Commission” means the Securities and Exchange Commission, or any other Federal agency then administering the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.

 

Common Stock” means the Class A common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of the Company.

 

Company” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Company Investorsis defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Demand Registration” is defined in Section 2.2.1.

 

Demanding Holder” is defined in Section 2.2.1.

 

Effectiveness Period” is defined in Section 3.1.3.

 

Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect at the time.

 

Form S-1” means a Registration Statement on Form S-1.

 

Form S-3” means a Registration Statement on Form S-3 or any similar short-form registration that may be available at such time.

 

Clarus” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Clarus Investors” is defined in the recitals to this Agreement.

 

Indemnified Party” is defined in Section 4.3.

 

Indemnifying Party” is defined in Section 4.3.

 

Investor” and “Investors” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Investor Indemnified Party” is defined in Section 4.1.

 

Maximum Number of Shares” is defined in Section 2.2.4.

 

Merger” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Merger Agreement” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Merger Sub” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

New Registration Statement” is defined in Section 2.1.4.

 

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Notices” is defined in Section 6.3.

 

Piggy-Back Registration” is defined in Section 2.3.1.

 

Prior Agreement” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Pro Rata” is defined in Section 2.2.4.

 

Register,” “Registered” and “Registration” mean a registration effected by preparing and filing a registration statement or similar document in compliance with the requirements of the Securities Act, and the applicable rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, and such registration statement becoming effective.

 

Registrable Securities” means (i) the shares of Common Stock issued to the Investors in the Merger, (ii) the shares of Common Stock held by the Company Investors, (iii) the shares of Common Stock issued to the Company Investors upon conversion of the Company’s Class B common stock in connection with the Merger, (iv) the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of all warrants of the Company held by the Company Investors, and (iv) all shares of Common Stock issued to the Investors with respect to such securities referred to in clauses (i) – (iv) by way of any share split, share dividend or other distribution, recapitalization, share exchange, share reconstruction, amalgamation, contractual control arrangement or similar event. As to any particular Registrable Securities, such securities shall cease to be Registrable Securities when: (a) a Registration Statement with respect to the sale of such securities shall have become effective under the Securities Act and such securities shall have been sold, transferred, disposed of or exchanged in accordance with such Registration Statement; (b) such securities shall have been otherwise transferred, new certificates for them not bearing a legend restricting further transfer shall have been delivered by the Company and subsequent public distribution of them shall not require registration under the Securities Act; or (c) such securities shall have ceased to be outstanding.

 

Registration Statement” means a registration statement filed by the Company with the Commission in compliance with the Securities Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder for a public offering and sale of equity securities, or securities or other obligations exercisable or exchangeable for, or convertible into, equity securities (other than a registration statement on Form S-4 or Form S-8, or their successors, or any registration statement covering only securities proposed to be issued in exchange for securities or assets of another entity).

 

Resale Shelf Registration Statement” is defined in Section 2.1.1.

 

Requesting Holder” is defined in Section 2.1.5(a).

 

SEC Guidance” is defined in Section 2.1.4.

 

Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect at the time.

 

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Selling Holders” is defined in Section 2.1.5(a)(ii).

 

Subsequent Shelf Registration” is defined in Section 2.1.3.

 

Transfer means to (i) sell, offer to sell, contract or agree to sell, hypothecate, pledge, grant any option to purchase, make any short sale or otherwise dispose of or agree to dispose of, directly or indirectly, or establish or increase a put equivalent position or liquidate or decrease a call equivalent position within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder, with respect to any Common Stock, or any options or warrants to purchase any shares of Common Stock or any securities convertible into, exchangeable for or that represent the right to receive shares of Common Stock, (ii) enter into any swap or hedging or other arrangement which is designed to or which reasonably could be expected to lead to or result in a sale or disposition of the shares of Common Stock, or that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of any Common Stock, whether any such transaction is to be settled by delivery of such securities, in cash or otherwise, or (iii) publicly announce any intention to effect any transaction, including the filing of a registration statement specified in clause (i) or (ii). Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Transfer shall not be deemed to include any transfer for no consideration if the donee, trustee, heir or other transferee has agreed in writing to be bound by the same terms under this Agreement to the extent and for the duration that such terms remain in effect at the time of the Transfer.

 

Underwriter” means a securities dealer who purchases any Registrable Securities as principal in an underwritten offering and not as part of such dealer’s market-making activities.

 

Underwritten Takedown” shall mean an underwritten public offering of Registrable Securities pursuant to the Resale Shelf Registration Statement, as amended or supplemented.

 

Underwritten Demand Registration” shall mean an underwritten public offering of Registrable Securities pursuant to a Demand Registration, as amended or supplemented.

 

2. REGISTRATION RIGHTS.

 

2.1 Resale Shelf Registration Rights.

 

2.1.1 Registration Statement Covering Resale of Registrable Securities. The Company shall prepare and file or cause to be prepared and filed with the Commission no later than fifteen (15) business days after the Closing (the “Filing Date”), a Registration Statement for an offering to be made on a continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 of the Securities Act registering the resale from time to time by Investors of all of the Registrable Securities then held by such Investors that are not covered by an effective registration statement on the Filing Date (the “Resale Shelf Registration Statement”). The Resale Shelf Registration Statement shall be on Form S-3 or another appropriate form permitting Registration of such Registrable Securities for resale by such Investors. The Company shall use reasonable best efforts to cause the Resale Shelf Registration Statement to be declared effective within forty-five (45) days after the Closing, and once effective, to keep the Resale Shelf Registration Statement continuously effective under the Securities Act at all times until the expiration of the Effectiveness Period.

 

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2.1.2 Notification and Distribution of Materials. The Company shall notify the Investors in writing of the effectiveness of the Resale Shelf Registration Statement and shall furnish to them, without charge, such number of copies of the Resale Shelf Registration Statement (including any amendments, supplements and exhibits), the Prospectus contained therein (including each preliminary prospectus and all related amendments and supplements) and any documents incorporated by reference in the Resale Shelf Registration Statement or such other documents as the Investors may reasonably request in order to facilitate the sale of the Registrable Securities in the manner described in the Resale Shelf Registration Statement.

 

2.1.3 Amendments and Supplements. Subject to the provisions of Section 2.1.1 above, the Company shall promptly prepare and file with the Commission from time to time such amendments and supplements to the Resale Shelf Registration Statement and Prospectus used in connection therewith as may be necessary to keep the Resale Shelf Registration Statement effective and to comply with the provisions of the Securities Act with respect to the disposition of all the Registrable Securities during the Effectiveness Period.

 

2.1.4 Notwithstanding the registration obligations set forth in this Section 2.1, in the event the Commission informs the Company that all of the Registrable Securities cannot, as a result of the application of Rule 415, be registered for resale as a secondary offering on a single registration statement, the Company agrees to promptly (i) inform each of the holders thereof and use its commercially reasonable efforts to file amendments to the Resale Shelf Registration Statement as required by the Commission and/or (ii) withdraw the Resale Shelf Registration Statement and file a new registration statement (a “New Registration Statement”), in either case covering the maximum number of Registrable Securities permitted to be registered by the Commission, on Form S-3 or such other form available to register for resale the Registrable Securities as a secondary offering; provided, however, that prior to filing such amendment or New Registration Statement, the Company shall be obligated to use its commercially reasonable efforts to advocate with the Commission for the registration of all of the Registrable Securities in accordance with any publicly-available written or oral guidance, comments, requirements or requests of the Commission staff (the “SEC Guidance”), including without limitation, the Manual of Publicly Available Telephone Interpretations D.29. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, if any SEC Guidance sets forth a limitation of the number of Registrable Securities permitted to be registered on a particular Registration Statement as a secondary offering (and notwithstanding that the Company used commercially reasonable efforts to advocate with the Commission for the registration of all or a greater number of Registrable Securities), unless otherwise directed in writing by a holder as to its Registrable Securities, the number of Registrable Securities to be registered on such Registration Statement will be reduced on a pro rata basis based on the total number of Registrable Securities held by the Investors, subject to a determination by the Commission that certain Investors must be reduced first based on the number of Registrable Securities held by such Investors. In the event the Company amends the Resale Shelf Registration Statement or files a New Registration Statement, as the case may be, under clauses (i) or (ii) above, the Company will use its commercially reasonable efforts to file with the Commission, as promptly as allowed by Commission or SEC Guidance provided to the Company or to registrants of securities in general, one or more registration statements on Form S-3 or such other form available to register for resale those Registrable Securities that were not registered for resale on the Resale Shelf Registration Statement, as amended, or the New Registration Statement.

 

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2.1.5 Notice of Certain Events. The Company shall promptly notify the Investors in writing of any request by the Commission for any amendment or supplement to, or additional information in connection with, the Resale Shelf Registration Statement required to be prepared and filed hereunder (or Prospectus relating thereto). The Company shall promptly notify each Investor in writing of the filing of the Resale Shelf Registration Statement or any Prospectus, amendment or supplement related thereto or any post-effective amendment to the Resale Shelf Registration Statement and the effectiveness of any post-effective amendment.

 

(a) If the Company shall receive a request from the holders of Registrable Securities with an estimated market value of at least $30,000,000 (the requesting holder(s) shall be referred to herein as the “Requesting Holder(s)”) that the Company effect the Underwritten Takedown of all or any portion of the Requesting Holder’s Registrable Securities, and specifying the intended method of disposition thereof, then the Company shall promptly give notice of such requested Underwritten Takedown at least ten (10) Business Days prior to the anticipated filing date of the prospectus or supplement relating to such Underwritten Takedown to the other Investors and thereupon shall use its reasonable best efforts to effect, as expeditiously as possible, the offering in such Underwritten Takedown of:

 

(i) subject to the restrictions set forth in Section 2.2.4, all Registrable Securities for which the Requesting Holder has requested such offering under Section 2.1.5(a), and

 

(ii) subject to the restrictions set forth in Section 2.2.4, all other Registrable Securities that any holders of Registrable Securities (all such holders, together with the Requesting Holder, the “Selling Holders”) have requested the Company to offer by request received by the Company within seven Business Days after such holders receive the Company’s notice of the Underwritten Takedown, all to the extent necessary to permit the disposition (in accordance with the intended methods thereof as aforesaid) of the Registrable Securities so to be offered.

 

(b) Promptly after the expiration of the seven-Business Day-period referred to in Section 2.1.5(a)(ii), the Company will notify all Selling Holders of the identities of the other Selling Holders and the number of shares of Registrable Securities requested to be included therein.

 

(c) the Company shall only be required to effectuate: (i) one Underwritten Takedown within any six-month period; (ii) no more than two Underwritten Takedowns in respect of all Registrable Securities held by the Company Investors after giving effect to Section 2.2.1(c); and (iii) no more than two Underwritten Takedowns in respect of all Registrable Securities held by Clarus Investors after giving effect to Section 2.2.1(d).

 

(d) If the managing underwriter in an Underwritten Takedown advises the Company and the Requesting Holder that, in its view, the number of shares of Registrable Securities requested to be included in such underwritten offering exceeds the largest number of shares that can be sold without having an adverse effect on such offering, including the price at which such shares can be sold, the shares included in such Underwritten Takedown will be reduced by the Registrable Securities held by the Selling Holders (applied on a pro rata basis based on the total number of Registrable Securities held by such Investors, subject to a determination by the Commission that certain Investors must be reduced first based on the number of Registrable Securities held by such Investors).

 

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2.1.6 Selection of Underwriters. Selling Holders holding a majority in interest of the Registrable Securities requested to be sold in an Underwritten Takedown shall have the right to select an Underwriter or Underwriters in connection with such Underwritten Takedown, which Underwriter or Underwriters shall be reasonably acceptable to the Company. In connection with an Underwritten Takedown, the Company shall enter into customary agreements (including an underwriting agreement in customary form) and take such other actions as are reasonably required in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of the Registrable Securities in such Underwritten Takedown, including, if necessary, the engagement of a “qualified independent underwriter” in connection with the qualification of the underwriting arrangements with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.

 

2.1.7 Registrations effected pursuant to this Section 2.1 shall not be counted as Demand Registrations effected pursuant to Section 2.2.

 

2.2 Demand Registration.

 

2.2.1 Request for Registration. At any time and from time to time after the expiration of a lock-up to which such shares are subject, if any, (i) Company Investors who hold a majority in interest of the Registrable Securities held by all Company Investors or (ii) Clarus Investors who hold at least a majority of the Registrable Securities held by all Clarus Investors, as the case may be, may make a written demand for Registration under the Securities Act of all or any portion of their Registrable Securities on Form S-1 or any similar long-form Registration or, if then available, on Form S-3. Each registration requested pursuant to this Section 2.2.1 is referred to herein as a “Demand Registration”. Any demand for a Demand Registration shall specify the number of shares of Registrable Securities proposed to be sold and the intended method(s) of distribution thereof. The Company will notify all Investors that are holders of Registrable Securities of the demand, and each such holder of Registrable Securities who wishes to include all or a portion of such holder’s Registrable Securities in the Demand Registration (each such holder including shares of Registrable Securities in such registration, a “Demanding Holder”) shall so notify the Company within fifteen (15) days after the receipt by the holder of the notice from the Company. Upon any such request, the Demanding Holders shall be entitled to have their Registrable Securities included in the Demand Registration, subject to Section 2.2.4 and the provisos set forth in Section 3.1.1. The Company shall not be obligated to effect: (a) more than one (1) Demand Registration during any six-month period; (b) any Demand Registration at any time there is an effective Resale Shelf Registration Statement on file with the Commission pursuant to Section 2.1; (c) more than 2 Underwritten Demand Registrations in respect of all Registrable Securities held by the Company Investors, each of which will also count as an Underwritten Takedown of the Company Investors under Section 2.1.5(c)(ii); or (d) more than 2 Underwritten Demand Registrations in respect of all Registrable Securities held by Clarus Investors, each of which will also count as an Underwritten Takedown of Clarus Investors under Section 2.1.5(c)(iii).

 

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2.2.2 Effective Registration. A Registration will not count as a Demand Registration until the Registration Statement filed with the Commission with respect to such Demand Registration has been declared effective and the Company has complied with all of its obligations under this Agreement with respect thereto; provided, however, that if, after such Registration Statement has been declared effective, the offering of Registrable Securities pursuant to a Demand Registration is interfered with by any stop order or injunction of the Commission or any other governmental agency or court, the Registration Statement with respect to such Demand Registration will be deemed not to have been declared effective, unless and until, (i) such stop order or injunction is removed, rescinded or otherwise terminated, and (ii) a majority-in-interest of the Demanding Holders thereafter elect to continue the offering and accordingly notify the Company in writing; provided, further, that the Company shall not be obligated to file a second Registration Statement until a Registration Statement that has been filed is counted as a Demand Registration or is terminated.

 

2.2.3 Underwritten Offering. If the Demanding Holders so elect and such holders so advise the Company as part of their written demand for a Demand Registration, the offering of such Registrable Securities pursuant to such Demand Registration shall be in the form of an underwritten offering with an estimated market value of at least $30,000,000. In such event, the right of any holder to include its 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 Demanding Holders proposing to distribute their Registrable Securities through such underwriting shall enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the Underwriter or Underwriters selected for such underwriting by the holders initiating the Demand Registration, and subject to the reasonable approval of the Company.

 

2.2.4 Reduction of Offering. If the managing Underwriter or Underwriters for a Demand Registration that is to be an underwritten offering advises the Company and the Demanding Holders in writing that the dollar amount or number of shares of Registrable Securities which the Demanding Holders desire to sell, taken together with all other Common Stock or other securities which the Company desires to sell and the Common Stock, if any, as to which registration has been requested pursuant to written contractual piggy-back registration rights held by other shareholders of the Company who desire to sell, exceeds the maximum dollar amount or maximum number of shares that can be sold in such offering without adversely affecting the proposed offering price, the timing, the distribution method, or the probability of success of such offering (such maximum dollar amount or maximum number of shares, as applicable, the “Maximum Number of Shares”), then the Company shall include in such registration: (i) first, the Registrable Securities as to which Demand Registration has been requested by the Demanding Holders (pro rata in accordance with the number of shares that each such Person has requested be included in such registration, regardless of the number of shares held by each such Person (such proportion is referred to herein as “Pro Rata”)) that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares; (ii) second, to the extent that the Maximum Number of Shares has not been reached under the foregoing clause (i), the Common Stock or other securities that the Company desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares; (iii) third, to the extent that the Maximum Number of Shares has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (i) and (ii), the Common Stock or other securities for the account of other persons that the Company is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual arrangements with such persons, as to which “piggy-back” registration has been requested by the holders thereof, Pro Rata, that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares.

 

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2.2.5 Withdrawal. A Demanding Holder shall have the right to withdraw all or any portion of its Registrable Securities included in an Underwritten Offering pursuant to this Section 2.2 for any reason or no reason whatsoever upon written notice to the Company and the Underwriter or Underwriters of its intention to withdraw from such Underwritten Offering prior to the pricing of such Underwritten Offering and such withdrawn amount shall no longer be considered an Underwritten Offering. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the Company shall be responsible for the registration expenses incurred in connection with an Underwritten Offering prior to its withdrawal under this Section 2.2.5.

 

2.3 Piggy-Back Registration.

 

2.3.1 Piggy-Back Rights. If at any time after the Closing Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement), the Company proposes to file a Registration Statement under the Securities Act with respect to an offering of equity securities, or securities or other obligations exercisable or exchangeable for, or convertible into, equity securities, by the Company for its own account or for shareholders of the Company for their account (or by the Company and by shareholders of the Company including, without limitation, pursuant to Section 2.1), other than a Registration Statement (i) filed in connection with any employee stock option or other benefit plan, (ii) for an exchange offer or offering of securities solely to the Company’s existing shareholders, (iii) for an offering of debt that is convertible into equity securities of the Company or (iv) for a dividend reinvestment plan, then the Company shall (x) give written notice of such proposed filing to the holders of Registrable Securities as soon as practicable but in no event less than ten (10) days before the anticipated filing date, which notice shall describe the amount and type of securities to be included in such offering, the intended method(s) of distribution, and the name of the proposed managing Underwriter or Underwriters, if any, of the offering, and (y) offer to the holders of Registrable Securities in such notice the opportunity to register the sale of such number of shares of Registrable Securities as such holders may request in writing within five (5) days following receipt of such notice (a “Piggy-Back Registration”). The rights provided under this Section 2.3.1 shall not be available to any Investor at such time as (i) there is an effective Resale Shelf Registration Statement available for the resale of the Registerable Securities pursuant to Section 2.1, (ii) such Registration is solely to be used for the offering of securities by the Company for its own account and (iii) no other shareholder of the Company is entitled to participate in such Registration. The Company shall cause such Registrable Securities to be included in such registration and shall use its best efforts to cause the managing Underwriter or Underwriters of a proposed underwritten offering to permit the Registrable Securities requested to be included in a Piggy-Back Registration on the same terms and conditions as any similar securities of the Company and to permit the sale or other disposition of such Registrable Securities in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof. All holders of Registrable Securities proposing to distribute their securities through a Piggy-Back Registration that involves an Underwriter or Underwriters shall enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the Underwriter or Underwriters selected for such Piggy-Back Registration.

 

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2.3.2 Reduction of Offering. If the managing Underwriter or Underwriters for a Piggy-Back Registration that is to be an underwritten offering advises the Company and the holders of Registrable Securities in writing that the dollar amount or number of Common Stock which the Company desires to sell, taken together with Common Stock, if any, as to which registration has been demanded pursuant to written contractual arrangements with persons other than the holders of Registrable Securities hereunder and the Registrable Securities as to which registration has been requested under this Section 2.3, exceeds the Maximum Number of Shares, then the Company shall include in any such registration:

 

(a) If the registration is undertaken for the Company’s account: (A) first, the Common Stock or other securities that the Company desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares; and (B) second, to the extent that the Maximum Number of Shares has not been reached under the foregoing clause (A), the Common Stock or other securities, if any, comprised of Registrable Securities, as to which registration has been requested pursuant to the terms hereof, that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares, Pro Rata; and (C) third, to the extent that the Maximum Number of shares has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (A) and (B), the Common Stock or other securities for the account of other persons that the Company is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual piggy-back registration rights with such persons and that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares; and

 

(b) If the registration is a “demand” registration undertaken at the demand of Demanding Holders pursuant to Section 2.2, (A) first, the Common Stock or other securities for the account of the demanding persons that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares; (B) second, to the extent that the Maximum Number of Shares has not been reached under the foregoing clause (A), the Common Stock or other securities that the Company desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares; (C) third, to the extent that the Maximum Number of Shares has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (A) and (B), the Common Stock or other securities, if any, comprised of Registrable Securities, Pro Rata, as to which registration has been requested pursuant to the terms hereof, that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares; and (D) fourth, to the extent that the Maximum Number of Shares has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (A), (B) and (C), the Common Stock or other securities for the account of other persons that the Company is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual arrangements with such persons, that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Number of Shares.

 

2.3.3 Withdrawal. Any holder of Registrable Securities may elect to withdraw such holder’s request for inclusion of Registrable Securities in any Piggy-Back Registration by giving written notice to the Company of such request to withdraw prior to the effectiveness of the Registration Statement. The Company (whether on its own determination or as the result of a withdrawal by persons making a demand pursuant to written contractual obligations) may withdraw a Registration Statement at any time prior to the effectiveness of such Registration Statement. Notwithstanding any such withdrawal, the Company shall pay all expenses incurred by the holders of Registrable Securities in connection with such Piggy-Back Registration as provided in Section 3.3.

 

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3. REGISTRATION PROCEDURES.

 

3.1 Filings; Information. Whenever the Company is required to effect the registration of any Registrable Securities pursuant to Section 2, the Company shall use its commercially reasonable best efforts to effect the registration and sale of such Registrable Securities in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof as expeditiously as practicable, and in connection with any such request:

 

3.1.1 Filing Registration Statement. The Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to, as expeditiously as possible after receipt of a request for a Demand Registration pursuant to Section 2.1, prepare and file with the Commission a Registration Statement on any form for which the Company then qualifies or which counsel for the Company shall deem appropriate and which form shall be available for the sale of all Registrable Securities to be registered thereunder in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof, and shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause such Registration Statement to become effective and use its reasonable best efforts to keep it effective for the Effectiveness Period; provided, however, that the Company shall have the right to defer any Demand Registration for up to sixty (60) days, and any Piggy-Back Registration for such period as may be applicable to deferment of any Demand Registration to which such Piggy-Back Registration relates, in each case if, in the good faith judgment of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Company Board”), it would be materially detrimental to the Company and its shareholders for such Registration Statement to be effected at such time and the Board concludes as a result that it is essential to defer the filing of such Registration Statement at such time, in which case the Company shall furnish to the Demanding Holders a certificate signed by the Chairman of the Board or an executive officer of the Company certifying such good faith determination by the Board; provided, further, however, that the Company shall not have the right to exercise the right set forth in the immediately preceding proviso for more than a total of ninety (90) consecutive calendar days, or more than one hundred twenty (120) total calendar days in any 365-day period.

 

3.1.2 Copies. The Company shall, prior to filing a Registration Statement or prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto, furnish without charge to the holders of Registrable Securities included in such registration, and such holders’ legal counsel, copies of such Registration Statement as proposed to be filed, each amendment and supplement to such Registration Statement (in each case including all exhibits thereto and documents incorporated by reference therein), the prospectus included in such Registration Statement (including each preliminary prospectus), and such other documents as the holders of Registrable Securities included in such registration or legal counsel for any such holders may request in order to facilitate the disposition of the Registrable Securities owned by such holders.

 

3.1.3 Amendments and Supplements. Until the earlier of (i) the fifth anniversary of the date of this Agreement or (ii) the date as of which (A) all of the Registrable Securities have been sold pursuant to a Registration Statement (but in no event prior to the applicable period referred to in Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act and Rule 174 thereunder (or any successor rule promulgated thereafter by the Commission)) or (B) the holders of all Registrable Securities are permitted to sell the Registrable Securities under Rule 144 (or any similar provision) under the Securities Act without limitation on the amount of securities sold or the manner of sale, the Company shall prepare and file with the Commission such amendments, including post-effective amendments, and supplements to such Registration Statement and the prospectus used in connection therewith as may be necessary to keep such Registration Statement effective and in compliance with the provisions of the Securities Act (the “Effectiveness Period”).

 

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3.1.4 Notification. After the filing of a Registration Statement, the Company shall promptly, and in no event more than two (2) Business Days after such filing, notify the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement of such filing, and shall further notify such holders promptly and confirm such advice in writing in all events within two (2) Business Days of the occurrence of any of the following: (i) when such Registration Statement becomes effective; (ii) when any post-effective amendment to such Registration Statement becomes effective; (iii) the issuance or threatened issuance by the Commission of any stop order (and the Company shall take all actions required to prevent the entry of such stop order or to remove it if entered); and (iv) any request by the Commission for any amendment or supplement to such Registration Statement or any prospectus relating thereto or for additional information or of the occurrence of an event requiring the preparation of a supplement or amendment to such prospectus so that, as thereafter delivered to the purchasers of the securities covered by such Registration Statement, such prospectus will not contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and promptly make available to the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement any such supplement or amendment; except that before filing with the Commission a Registration Statement or prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto, including documents incorporated by reference, the Company shall furnish to the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement and to the legal counsel for any such holders, copies of all such documents proposed to be filed sufficiently in advance of filing to provide such holders and legal counsel with a reasonable opportunity to review such documents and comment thereon.

 

3.1.5 Securities Laws Compliance. The Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to (i) register or qualify the Registrable Securities covered by the Registration Statement under such securities or “blue sky” laws of such jurisdictions in the United States as the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement (in light of their intended plan of distribution) may reasonably request and (ii) take such action necessary to cause such Registrable Securities covered by the Registration Statement to be registered with or approved by such other governmental authorities as may be necessary by virtue of the business and operations of the Company and do any and all other acts and things that may be necessary or advisable to enable the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement to consummate the disposition of such Registrable Securities in such jurisdictions; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required to qualify generally to do business in any jurisdiction where it would not otherwise be required to qualify but for this paragraph or subject itself to taxation in any such jurisdiction.

 

3.1.6 Agreements for Disposition. The Company shall enter into customary agreements (including, if applicable, an underwriting agreement in customary form) and take such other actions as are reasonably required in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of such Registrable Securities. The representations, warranties and covenants of the Company in any underwriting agreement which are made to or for the benefit of any Underwriters, to the extent applicable, shall also be made to and for the benefit of the holders of Registrable Securities included in such registration statement, and the representations, warranties and covenants of the holders of Registrable Securities included in such registration statement in any underwriting agreement which are made to or for the benefit of any Underwriters, to the extent applicable, shall also be made to and for the benefit of the Company.

 

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3.1.7 Comfort Letter. The Company shall obtain a “cold comfort” letter from the Company’s independent registered public accountants in the event of an underwritten offering, in customary form and covering such matters of the type customarily covered by “cold comfort” letters as the managing Underwriter may reasonably request, and reasonably satisfactory to a majority-in-interest of the participating holders.

 

3.1.8 Opinions. On the date the Registrable Securities are delivered for sale pursuant to any Registration, the Company shall obtain an opinion, dated such date, of one (1) counsel representing the Company for the purposes of such Registration, addressed to the holders, the placement agent or sales agent, if any, and the Underwriters, if any, covering such legal matters with respect to the Registration in respect of which such opinion is being given as the holders, placement agent, sales agent, or Underwriter may reasonably request and as are customarily included in such opinions, and reasonably satisfactory to a majority in interest of the participating holders.

 

3.1.9 Cooperation. The principal executive officer of the Company, the principal financial officer of the Company, the principal accounting officer of the Company and all other officers and members of the management of the Company shall cooperate fully in any offering of Registrable Securities hereunder, which cooperation shall include, without limitation, the preparation of the Registration Statement with respect to such offering and all other offering materials and related documents, and participation in meetings with Underwriters, attorneys, accountants and potential investors.

 

3.1.10 Records. Upon execution of confidentiality agreements, the Company shall make available for inspection by the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement, any Underwriter participating in any disposition pursuant to such registration statement and any attorney, accountant or other professional retained by any holder of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement or any Underwriter, all financial and other records, pertinent corporate documents and properties of the Company, as shall be necessary to enable them to exercise their due diligence responsibility, and cause the Company’s officers, directors and employees to supply all information requested by any of them in connection with such Registration Statement.

 

3.1.11 Earnings Statement. The Company shall comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the Commission and the Securities Act, and make available to its shareholders, as soon as practicable, an earnings statement covering a period of twelve (12) months, which earnings statement shall satisfy the provisions of Section 11(a) of the Securities Act and Rule 158 thereunder.

 

3.1.12 Listing. The Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause all Registrable Securities included in any Registration Statement to be listed on such exchanges or otherwise designated for trading in the same manner as similar securities issued by the Company are then listed or designated.

 

3.2 Obligation to Suspend Distribution. Upon receipt of any notice from the Company of the happening of any event of the kind described in Section 3.1.4(iv), or, upon any suspension by the Company, pursuant to a written insider trading compliance program adopted by the Company Board, of the ability of all “insiders” covered by such program to transact in the Company’s securities because of the existence of material non-public information, each holder of Registrable Securities included in any registration shall immediately discontinue disposition of such Registrable Securities pursuant to the Registration Statement covering such Registrable Securities until such holder receives the supplemented or amended prospectus contemplated by Section 3.1.4(iv) or the restriction on the ability of “insiders” to transact in the Company’s securities is removed, as applicable, and, if so directed by the Company, each such holder will deliver to the Company all copies, other than permanent file copies then in such holder’s possession, of the most recent prospectus covering such Registrable Securities at the time of receipt of such notice.

 

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3.3 Registration Expenses. The Company shall bear all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the Resale Shelf Registration Statement pursuant to Section 2.1, any Demand Registration pursuant to Section 2.1, any Underwritten Takedown pursuant to Section 2.1.5(a)(i), any Piggy-Back Registration pursuant to Section 2.3, and any registration on Form S-3 effected pursuant to Section 2.3, and all expenses incurred in performing or complying with its other obligations under this Agreement, whether or not the Registration Statement becomes effective, including, without limitation: (i) all registration and filing fees; (ii) fees and expenses of compliance with securities or “blue sky” laws (including fees and disbursements of counsel in connection with blue sky qualifications of the Registrable Securities); (iii) printing expenses; (iv) the Company’s internal expenses (including, without limitation, all salaries and expenses of its officers and employees); (v) the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the listing of the Registrable Securities as required by Section 3.1.10; (vi) Financial Industry Regulatory Authority fees; (vii) fees and disbursements of counsel for the Company and fees and expenses for independent certified public accountants retained by the Company; (viii) the fees and expenses of any special experts retained by the Company in connection with such registration and (ix) the reasonable fees and expenses of one legal counsel selected by the holders of a majority-in-interest of the Registrable Securities included in such registration not to exceed $25,000. The Company shall have no obligation to pay any underwriting discounts or selling commissions attributable to the Registrable Securities being sold by the holders thereof, which underwriting discounts or selling commissions shall be borne by such holders. Additionally, in an Underwritten Offering, all selling shareholders and the Company shall bear the expenses of the Underwriter’s marketing costs pro rata in proportion to the respective amount of shares each is selling in such offering.

 

3.4 Information. The holders of Registrable Securities shall promptly provide such information as may reasonably be requested by the Company, or the managing Underwriter, if any, in connection with the preparation of any Registration Statement, including amendments and supplements thereto, in order to effect the registration of any Registrable Securities under the Securities Act and in connection with the Company’s obligation to comply with Federal and applicable state securities laws.

 

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4. INDEMNIFICATION AND CONTRIBUTION.

 

4.1 Indemnification by the Company. The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each Investor and each other holder of Registrable Securities, and each of their respective officers, employees, affiliates, directors, partners, members, attorneys and agents, and each person, if any, who controls an Investor and each other holder of Registrable Securities (within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act) (each, an “Investor Indemnified Party”), from and against any expenses, losses, judgments, claims, damages or liabilities, whether joint or several, arising out of or based upon any untrue statement (or allegedly untrue statement) of a material fact contained in any Registration Statement under which the sale of such Registrable Securities was registered under the Securities Act, any preliminary prospectus, final prospectus or summary prospectus contained in the Registration Statement, or any amendment or supplement to such Registration Statement, or arising out of or based upon any omission (or alleged omission) to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, or any violation by the Company of the Securities Act or any rule or regulation promulgated thereunder applicable to the Company and relating to action or inaction required of the Company in connection with any such registration; and the Company shall promptly reimburse the Investor Indemnified Party for any legal and any other expenses reasonably incurred by such Investor Indemnified Party in connection with investigating and defending any such expense, loss, judgment, claim, damage, liability or action; provided, however, that the Company will not be liable in any such case to the extent that any such expense, loss, claim, damage or liability arises out of or is based upon any untrue statement or allegedly untrue statement or omission or alleged omission made in such Registration Statement, preliminary prospectus, final prospectus, or summary prospectus, or any such amendment or supplement, in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished to the Company, in writing, by such selling holder expressly for use therein. The Company shall indemnify the Underwriters, their officers, directors and each person who controls such Underwriters (within the meaning of the Securities Act) to the same extent as provided in the foregoing sentence with respect to the indemnification of the holders.

 

4.2 Indemnification by Holders of Registrable Securities. Each selling holder of Registrable Securities will, in the event that any registration is being effected under the Securities Act pursuant to this Agreement of any Registrable Securities held by such selling holder, indemnify and hold harmless the Company, each of its directors and officers, and each other selling holder and each other person, if any, who controls another selling holder within the meaning of the Securities Act, against any losses, claims, judgments, damages or liabilities, whether joint or several, insofar as such losses, claims, judgments, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue statement or allegedly untrue statement of a material fact contained in any Registration Statement under which the sale of such Registrable Securities was registered under the Securities Act, any preliminary prospectus, final prospectus or summary prospectus contained in the Registration Statement, or any amendment or supplement to the Registration Statement, or arise out of or are based upon any omission or the alleged omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statement therein not misleading, but only to the extent that such untrue statement or omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished in writing to the Company by such selling holder expressly for use therein (provided, however, that the indemnity agreement contained in this Section 4.2 shall not apply to amounts paid in settlement of any loss, claim, damage, liability or action if such settlement is effected without the consent of the indemnifying holder, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned), and shall reimburse the Company, its directors and officers, and each other selling holder or controlling person for any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by any of them in connection with investigation or defending any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action. Each selling holder’s indemnification obligations hereunder shall be several and not joint and shall be limited to the amount of any net proceeds actually received by such selling holder. The selling holders shall indemnify the Underwriters, their officers, directors and each person who controls such Underwriters (within the meaning of the Securities Act) to the same extent as provided in the foregoing with respect to the indemnification of the Company.

 

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4.3 Conduct of Indemnification Proceedings. Promptly after receipt by any person of any notice of any loss, claim, damage or liability or any action in respect of which indemnity may be sought pursuant to Sections 4.1 or 4.2, such person (the “Indemnified Party”) shall, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against any other person for indemnification hereunder, notify such other person (the “Indemnifying Party”) in writing of the loss, claim, judgment, damage, liability or action; provided, however, that the failure by the Indemnified Party to notify the Indemnifying Party shall not relieve the Indemnifying Party from any liability which the Indemnifying Party may have to such Indemnified Party hereunder, except and solely to the extent the Indemnifying Party is actually prejudiced by such failure. If the Indemnified Party is seeking indemnification with respect to any claim or action brought against the Indemnified Party, then the Indemnifying Party shall be entitled to participate in such claim or action, and, to the extent that it wishes, jointly with all other Indemnifying Parties, to assume control of the defense thereof with counsel satisfactory to the Indemnified Party. After notice from the Indemnifying Party to the Indemnified Party of its election to assume control of the defense of such claim or action, the Indemnifying Party shall not be liable to the Indemnified Party for any legal or other expenses subsequently incurred by the Indemnified Party in connection with the defense thereof other than reasonable costs of investigation; provided, however, that in any action in which both the Indemnified Party and the Indemnifying Party are named as defendants, the Indemnified Party shall have the right to employ separate counsel (but no more than one such separate counsel, which counsel is reasonably acceptable to the Indemnifying Party) to represent the Indemnified Party and its controlling persons who may be subject to liability arising out of any claim in respect of which indemnity may be sought by the Indemnified Party against the Indemnifying Party, with the fees and expenses of such counsel to be paid by such Indemnifying Party if, based upon the written opinion of counsel of such Indemnified Party, representation of both parties by the same counsel would be inappropriate due to actual or potential differing interests between them. No Indemnifying Party shall, without the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party, consent to entry of judgment or effect any settlement of any claim or pending or threatened proceeding in respect of which the Indemnified Party is or could have been a party and indemnity could have been sought hereunder by such Indemnified Party, unless such judgment or settlement includes an unconditional release of such Indemnified Party from all liability arising out of such claim or proceeding.

 

4.4 Contribution.

 

4.4.1 If the indemnification provided for in the foregoing Sections 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 is unavailable to any Indemnified Party in respect of any loss, claim, damage, liability or action referred to herein, then each such Indemnifying Party, in lieu of indemnifying such Indemnified Party, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such Indemnified Party as a result of such loss, claim, damage, liability or action in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of the Indemnified Parties and the Indemnifying Parties in connection with the actions or omissions which resulted in such loss, claim, damage, liability or action, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of any Indemnified Party and any Indemnifying Party shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by such Indemnified Party or such Indemnifying Party and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission.

 

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4.4.2 The parties hereto agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 4.4.2 were determined by pro rata allocation or by any other method of allocation which does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to in the immediately preceding Section 4.4.1.

 

4.4.3 The amount paid or payable by an Indemnified Party as a result of any loss, claim, damage, liability or action referred to in the immediately preceding paragraph shall be deemed to include, subject to the limitations set forth above, any legal or other expenses incurred by such Indemnified Party in connection with investigating or defending any such action or claim. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 4.4, no holder of Registrable Securities shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the dollar amount of the net proceeds (after payment of any underwriting fees, discounts, commissions or taxes) actually received by such holder from the sale of Registrable Securities which gave rise to such contribution obligation. No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.

 

5. UNDERWRITING AND DISTRIBUTION.

 

5.1 Rule 144 and 145. As long as any holder shall own Registrable Securities, the Company, at all times while it shall be a reporting company under the Exchange Act, covenants to file timely (or obtain extensions in respect thereof and file within the applicable grace period) all reports required to be filed by the Company after the date hereof pursuant to Sections 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act and to promptly furnish such holders with true and complete copies of all such filings. The Company further covenants that it shall take such further action as any such holder may reasonably request, all to the extent required from time to time to enable such holder to sell shares of Common Stock held by such holder without registration under the Securities Act within the limitation of the exemptions provided by Rule 144 and 145 promulgated under the Securities Act (or any successor rule promulgated thereafter by the Commission), including providing any legal opinions. Upon the request of any holder, the Company shall deliver to such holder a written certification of a duly authorized officer as to whether it has complied with such requirements.

 

6. MISCELLANEOUS.

 

6.1 Other Registration Rights and Arrangements. The Company represents and warrants that, as of the date hereof, no person, other than a holder of the Registrable Securities has any right to require the Company to register any of the Company’s share capital for sale or to include the Company’s share capital in any registration filed by the Company for the sale of shares for its own account or for the account of any other person. Company and the Company Investors hereby terminate the Prior Agreement, which shall be of no further force and effect and is hereby superseded and replaced in its entirety by this Agreement. The Company shall not hereafter enter into any agreement with respect to its securities which is inconsistent with or violates the rights granted to the holders of Registrable Securities in this Agreement (provided that the grant of right to require the Company to register any of the Company’s share capital for sale or to include the Company’s share capital in any registration filed by the Company for the sale of shares for its own account or for the account of any other person shall not, in and of itself, be deemed inconsistent with or in violation of the rights granted to the holders of Registrable Securities) and in the event of any conflict between any such agreement or agreements and this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall prevail.

 

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6.2 Assignment; No Third Party Beneficiaries. This Agreement and the rights, duties and obligations of the Company hereunder may not be assigned or delegated by the Company in whole or in part. This Agreement and the rights, duties and obligations of the holders of Registrable Securities hereunder may be freely assigned or delegated by such holder of Registrable Securities in conjunction with and to the extent of any permitted transfer of Registrable Securities by any such holder. This Agreement and the provisions hereof shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of each of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns and the holders of Registrable Securities and their respective successors and permitted assigns. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or benefits on any persons that are not party hereto other than as expressly set forth in Section 4 and this Section 6.2. The rights of a holder of Registrable Securities under this Agreement may be transferred by such a holder to a transferee who acquires or holds Registrable Securities; provided, however, that such transferee has executed and delivered to the Company a properly completed agreement to be bound by the terms of this Agreement substantially in form attached hereto as Exhibit A (an “Addendum Agreement”), and the transferor shall have delivered to the Company no later than thirty (30) days following the date of the transfer, written notification of such transfer setting forth the name of the transferor, the name and address of the transferee, and the number of Registrable Securities so transferred. The execution of an Addendum Agreement shall constitute a permitted amendment of this Agreement.

 

6.3 Amendments and Modifications. Upon the written consent of (a) the Company, (b) the holders of at least a majority in interest of Registrable Securities held by Company Investors at the time in question and (c) the holders of at least a majority in interest of Registrable Securities held by Clarus Investors at the time in question, compliance with any of the provisions, covenants and conditions set forth in this Agreement may be waived, or any of such provisions, covenants or conditions may be amended or modified; provided, however, that notwithstanding the foregoing, any amendment hereto or waiver hereof that adversely affects one Investor, solely in his, her or its capacity as a holder of the shares of capital stock of the Company, in a manner that is materially different from the other Investors (in such capacity) shall require the consent of the Investor so affected. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, clauses (ii) and (iii) of the definition of “Registrable Securities”, Section 2.1.5(c)(ii), Section 2.2.1(i), Section 2.2.1(c) and Section 6.4 shall only be waived, amended and modified by the Company Investors who hold a majority in interest of the Registrable Securities held by all Company Investors at the time in question. No course of dealing between any Investor or the Company and any other party hereto or any failure or delay on the part of an Investor or the Company in exercising any rights or remedies under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver of any rights or remedies of any Investor or the Company. No single or partial exercise of any rights or remedies under this Agreement by a party shall operate as a waiver or preclude the exercise of any other rights or remedies hereunder or thereunder by such party.

 

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6.4 Term. This Agreement is binding upon its execution but shall take effect only at the Closing (as defined in the Merger Agreement) and place shall terminate automatically upon the earliest to occur of (i) the termination of the Merger Agreement in accordance with its terms prior to the Closing; (ii) the fifth anniversary of the date of this Agreement or (iii) the date as of which (A) all of the Registrable Securities have been sold pursuant to a Registration Statement (but in no event prior to the applicable period referred to in Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act and Rule 174 thereunder (or any successor rule promulgated thereafter by the Commission)) or (B) the holders of all Registrable Securities are permitted to sell the Registrable Securities under Rule 144 (or any similar provision) under the Securities Act without limitation on the amount of securities sold or the manner of sale; provided, however, that the provisions of Section 4 shall survive such termination with respect to any matter that (i) may be an indemnified liability thereunder and (ii) occurred prior to such termination. Notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary, the right of any Holder to request a registration or inclusion of Registrable Securities in any registration pursuant to this Agreement shall terminate upon the third anniversary of the date hereof.

 

6.5 Notices. All notices, demands, requests, consents, approvals or other communications (collectively, “Notices”) required or permitted to be given hereunder or which are given with respect to this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be personally served, delivered by reputable air courier service with charges prepaid, or transmitted by facsimile or email, addressed as set forth below, or to such other address as such party shall have specified most recently by written notice. Notice shall be deemed given (i) on the date of service or transmission if personally served or transmitted by email or facsimile; provided, that if such service or transmission is not on a Business Day or is after normal business hours, then such notice shall be deemed given on the next Business Day or (ii) one Business Day after being deposited with a reputable courier service with an order for next-day delivery, to the parties as follows:

 

If to the Company:

 

Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.
555 Skokie Boulevard, Suite 340
Attention: Steven A. Bourne, Chief Financial Officer
E-mail: sbourne@clarustherapeutics.com

 

with a copy (which shall not constitute notice) to:

 

Goodwin Procter LLP
100 Northern Avenue
Boston, MA 02210
Attention: Mitchell S. Bloom, Arthur R. McGivern, Daniel J. Espinoza
E-mail:   mbloom@goodwinlaw.com, amcgivern@goodwinlaw.com, despinoza@goodwinlaw.com

 

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If to an Investor, to the address set forth under such Investor’s signature to this Agreement or to such Investor’s address as found in the Company’s books and records.

 

6.6 Severability. This Agreement shall be deemed severable, and the invalidity or unenforceability of any term or provision hereof shall not affect the validity or enforceability of this Agreement or of any other term or provision hereof. Furthermore, in lieu of any such invalid or unenforceable term or provision, the parties hereto intend that there shall be added as a part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such invalid or unenforceable provision as may be possible that is valid and enforceable.

 

6.7 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed and delivered by facsimile or electronic signature or by email in portable document format and in multiple counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

 

6.8 Entire Agreement. This Agreement (including all agreements entered into pursuant hereto and all certificates and instruments delivered pursuant hereto and thereto) constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior and contemporaneous agreements, representations, understandings, negotiations and discussions between the parties, whether oral or written, including without limitation (but solely upon the taking effect hereof at the Closing) the Prior Agreement.

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.
  a Delaware corporation
   
  By: /s/ Robert E. Dudley
  Name:  Robert E. Dudley
  Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  BLUE WATER SPONSOR LLC,
  a Delaware limited liability company
   
  By: /s/ Joseph Hernandez
  Name:  Joseph Hernandez
  Title: Managing Member

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  By: /s/ Steven A. Bourne
  Name:  Steven A. Bourne

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  By: /s/ Robert Dudley
  Name:  Robert Dudley

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  INVESTORS:
   
  H.I.G. VENTURES – CLARUS, LLC
   
  By: /s/ Richard Siegel
  Name:  Richard Siegel
  Title: Authorized Signatory

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  INVESTORS:
   
  H.I.G. Bio – Clarus I, L.P.
   
  By: /s/ Richard Siegel
  Name: Richard Siegel
  Title: Authorized Signatory

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  INVESTORS:
   
  H.I.G. Bio – Clarus II, L.P.
   
  By: /s/ Richard Siegel
  Name:  Richard Siegel
  Title: Authorized Signatory

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  INVESTORS:
   
  CBC SPV LTD
   
  By: /s/ Fu Wei                
  Name: Fu Wei
  Title: Director

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

  INVESTORS:
   
  Thomas, McNerney & Partners, L.P.
   
  By: /s/ James E. Thomas
  Name: James E. Thomas
  Title: Manager
   
  Thomas, McNerney & Partners II, L.P.
   
  By: /s/ James E. Thomas
  Name: James E. Thomas
  Title: Manager
   
  TMP Nominee, LLC
   
  By: /s/ James E. Thomas
  Name:  James E. Thomas
  Title: Manager
   
  TMP Associates, L.P.
   
  By: /s/ James E. Thomas
  Name: James E. Thomas
  Title: Manager
   
  TMP Nominee II, LLC
   
  By: /s/ James E. Thomas
  Name: James E. Thomas
  Title: Manager
   
  TMP Associates II, L.P.
   
  By: /s/ James E. Thomas
  Name: James E. Thomas
  Title: Manager

 

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

Addendum Agreement

 

This Addendum Agreement (“Addendum Agreement”) is executed on __________________, 20___, by the undersigned (the “New Holder”) pursuant to the terms of that certain Registration Rights Agreement dated as of September 9, 2021 (the “Agreement”), by and among the Company and the Investors identified therein, as such Agreement may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time. Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Addendum Agreement shall have the respective meanings ascribed to such terms in the Agreement. By the execution of this Addendum Agreement, the New Holder agrees as follows:

 

1. Acknowledgment. New Holder acknowledges that New Holder is acquiring certain shares of common stock of the Company (the “Shares”) as a transferee of such Shares from a party in such party’s capacity as a holder of Registrable Securities under the Agreement, and after such transfer, New Holder shall be considered an “Investor”1 (of the same designation under the Agreement, whether a “Company Investor” or a “Clarus Investor”, as the case may be, as the transferor of such Shares) and a holder of Registrable Securities for all purposes under the Agreement.

 

2. Agreement. New Holder hereby (a) agrees that the Shares shall be bound by and subject to the terms of the Agreement and (b) adopts the Agreement with the same force and effect as if the New Holder were originally a party thereto and an Investor thereunder (of the same designation under the Agreement, whether a “Company Investor” or a “Clarus Investor”, as the case may be, as the transferor of such Shares).

 

3. Notice. Any notice required or permitted by the Agreement shall be given to New Holder at the address or facsimile number listed below New Holder’s signature below.

 

NEW HOLDER:   ACCEPTED AND AGREED:
     
Print Name:     CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.
     

  

By:     By:  
         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCHEDULE I

 

Company Investors:

 

Blue Water Sponsor LLC

 

Clarus Investors:

 

1. Robert Dudley

2. Steven Bourne

3. Thomas, McNerney & Partners, L.P.

4. Thomas, McNerney & Partners II, L.P.

5. TMP Nominee, LLC

6. TMP Associates, L.P.

7. TMP Nominee II, LLC

8. TMP Associates II, L.P.

9. H.I.G. Ventures – Clarus, LLC

10. H.I.G. Bio - Clarus I, L.P.

11. H.I.G. Bio - Clarus II, L.P.

12. CBC SPVI Ltd

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.2

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.

 

FORM OF DIRECTOR INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

This Indemnification Agreement (“Agreement”) is made as of ________________ by and between Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and ________________ (“Indemnitee”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to attract and retain the services of highly qualified individuals, such as Indemnitee, to serve the Company;

 

WHEREAS, in order to induce Indemnitee to provide or continue to provide services to the Company, the Company wishes to provide for the indemnification of, and advancement of expenses to, Indemnitee to the maximum extent permitted by law;

 

WHEREAS, the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (as amended and in effect from time to time, the “Charter”) and the Amended and Restated Bylaws (as amended and in effect from time to time, the “Bylaws”) of the Company require indemnification of the officers and directors of the Company, and Indemnitee may also be entitled to indemnification pursuant to the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”);

 

WHEREAS, the Charter, the Bylaws and the DGCL expressly provide that the indemnification provisions set forth therein are not exclusive, and thereby contemplate that contracts may be entered into between the Company and members of the board of directors, officers and other persons with respect to indemnification;

 

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) has determined that the increased difficulty in attracting and retaining highly qualified persons such as Indemnitee is detrimental to the best interests of the Company’s stockholders;

 

WHEREAS, it is reasonable and prudent for the Company contractually to obligate itself to indemnify, and to advance expenses on behalf of, such persons to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, regardless of any amendment or revocation of the Charter or the Bylaws, so that they will serve or continue to serve the Company free from undue concern that they will not be so indemnified;

 

WHEREAS, this Agreement is a supplement to and in furtherance of the indemnification provided in the Charter, the Bylaws and any resolutions adopted pursuant thereto, and shall not be deemed a substitute therefor, nor to diminish or abrogate any rights of Indemnitee thereunder; and

 

[WHEREAS, Indemnitee has certain rights to indemnification and/or insurance provided by [________________] which Indemnitee and [________________] intend to be secondary to the primary obligation of the Company to indemnify Indemnitee as provided in this Agreement, with the Company’s acknowledgment and agreement to the foregoing being a material condition to Indemnitee’s willingness to serve or continue to serve on the Board.]

 

 

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Services to the Company. Indemnitee agrees to serve as a director of the Company. Indemnitee may at any time and for any reason resign from such position (subject to any other contractual obligation or any obligation imposed by law), in which event the Company shall have no obligation under this Agreement to continue Indemnitee in such position. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any of its subsidiaries or any Enterprise) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 2. Definitions.

 

As used in this Agreement:

 

(a) “Affiliate” and “Associate” shall have the respective meanings ascribed to such terms in Rule 12b-2 of the General Rules and Regulations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as in effect on the date of this Agreement; provided, however, that no Person who is a director or officer of the Company shall be deemed an Affiliate or an Associate of any other director or officer of the Company solely as a result of his or her position as director or officer of the Company.

 

(b) A Person shall be deemed the “Beneficial Owner” of, and shall be deemed to “Beneficially Own” and have “Beneficial Ownership” of, any securities:

 

(i) which such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates, directly or indirectly, Beneficially Owns (as determined pursuant to Rule 13d-3 of the Rules under the Exchange Act, as in effect on the date of this Agreement);

 

(ii) which such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates, directly or indirectly, has: (A) the legal, equitable or contractual right or obligation to acquire (whether directly or indirectly and whether exercisable immediately or only after the passage of time, compliance with regulatory requirements, satisfaction of one or more conditions (whether or not within the control of such Person) or otherwise) upon the exercise of any conversion rights, exchange rights, rights, warrants or options, or otherwise; (B) the right to vote pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether or not in writing); or (C) the right to dispose of pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether or not in writing) (other than customary arrangements with and between underwriters and selling group members with respect to a bona fide public offering of securities);

 

(iii) which are Beneficially Owned, directly or indirectly, by any other Person (or any Affiliate or Associate thereof) with which such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates has any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether or not in writing) (other than customary agreements with and between underwriters and selling group members with respect to a bona fide public offering of securities) for the purpose of acquiring, holding, voting or disposing of any securities of the Company; or

 

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(iv) that are the subject of a derivative transaction entered into by such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates, including, for these purposes, any derivative security acquired by such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates that gives such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates the economic equivalent of ownership of an amount of securities due to the fact that the value of the derivative security is explicitly determined by reference to the price or value of such securities, or that provides such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates an opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or to share in any profit derived from any change in the value of such securities, in any case without regard to whether (A) such derivative security conveys any voting rights in such securities to such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates; (B) the derivative security is required to be, or capable of being, settled through delivery of such securities; or (C) such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates may have entered into other transactions that hedge the economic effect of such derivative security;

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, no Person engaged in business as an underwriter of securities shall be deemed the Beneficial Owner of any securities acquired through such Person’s participation as an underwriter in good faith in a firm commitment underwriting.

 

(c) A “Change in Control” shall be deemed to occur upon the earliest to occur after the date of this Agreement of any of the following events:

 

(i) Acquisition of Stock by Third Party. Any Person is or becomes the Beneficial Owner (as defined above), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities unless the change in relative Beneficial Ownership of the Company’s securities by any Person results solely from a reduction in the aggregate number of outstanding shares of securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, provided that a Change of Control shall be deemed to have occurred if subsequent to such reduction such Person becomes the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of any additional securities of the Company conferring upon such Person any additional voting power;

 

(ii) Change in Board of Directors. During any period of two (2) consecutive years (not including any period prior to the execution of this Agreement), individuals who at the beginning of such period constitute the Board, and any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement with the Company to effect a transaction described in Sections 2(c)(i), 2(c)(iii) or 2(c)(iv)) whose election by the Board or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved, cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the members of the Board;

 

(iii) Corporate Transactions. The effective date of a merger or consolidation of the Company with any other entity, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving or successor entity) more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of the surviving or successor entity outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation and with the power to elect at least a majority of the board of directors or other governing body of such surviving or successor entity;

 

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(iv) Liquidation. The approval by the stockholders of the Company of a complete liquidation of the Company or an agreement for the sale, lease, exchange or other transfer by the Company, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets; and

 

(v) Other Events. There occurs any other event of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or a response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement.

 

(d) “Corporate Status” describes the status of a person as a current or former director of the Company or current or former director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of any other Enterprise which such person is or was serving at the request of the Company.

 

(e) “Enforcement Expenses” shall include all reasonable attorneys’ fees, court costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, and all other out-of-pocket disbursements or expenses of the types customarily incurred in connection with an action to enforce indemnification or advancement rights, or an appeal from such action. Expenses, however, shall not include fees, salaries, wages or benefits owed to Indemnitee.

 

(f) “Enterprise” shall mean any corporation (other than the Company), partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan, limited liability company, or other legal entity of which Indemnitee is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee.

 

(g) “Expenses” shall include all reasonable attorneys’ fees, court costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, and all other out-of-pocket disbursements or expenses of the types customarily incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in, or otherwise participating in, a Proceeding or an appeal resulting from a Proceeding. Expenses, however, shall not include amounts paid in settlement by Indemnitee, the amount of judgments or fines against Indemnitee or fees, salaries, wages or benefits owed to Indemnitee.

 

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(h) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a partner (or, if applicable, member or shareholder) of such a law firm, that is experienced in matters of Delaware corporation law and neither presently is, nor in the past five (5) years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company, any subsidiary of the Company, any Enterprise or Indemnitee in any matter material to any such party; or (ii) any other party to the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay the reasonable fees and expenses of the Independent Counsel referred to above and to fully indemnify such counsel against any and all expenses, claims, liabilities and damages arising out of or relating to this Agreement or its engagement pursuant hereto.

 

(i) “Person” shall mean (i) an individual, a corporation, a partnership, a limited liability company, an association, a joint stock company, a trust, a business trust, a government or political subdivision, any unincorporated organization, or any other association or entity including any successor (by merger or otherwise) thereof or thereto, and (ii) a “group” as that term is used for purposes of Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(j) The term “Proceeding” shall include any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil, criminal, administrative, regulatory or investigative nature, and whether formal or informal, in which Indemnitee was, is or will be involved as a party or otherwise by reason of the fact that Indemnitee is or was a director of the Company or is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of any Enterprise or by reason of any action taken by Indemnitee or of any action taken on his or her part while acting as a director of the Company or while serving at the request of the Company as a director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of any Enterprise, in each case whether or not serving in such capacity at the time any liability or expense is incurred for which indemnification, reimbursement or advancement of expenses can be provided under this Agreement; provided, however, that the term “Proceeding” shall not include any action, suit or arbitration, or part thereof, initiated by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement as provided for in Section 12(a) of this Agreement.

 

Section 3. Indemnity in Third-Party Proceedings. The Company shall indemnify Indemnitee to the extent set forth in this Section 3 if Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or a participant in any Proceeding, other than a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company to procure a judgment in its favor. Pursuant to this Section 3, Indemnitee shall be indemnified against all Expenses, judgments, fines, penalties, excise taxes, and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on his or her behalf in connection with such Proceeding or any claim, issue or matter therein, if Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company and, in the case of a criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.

 

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Section 4. Indemnity in Proceedings by or in the Right of the Company. The Company shall indemnify Indemnitee to the extent set forth in this Section 4 if Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or a participant in any Proceeding by or in the right of the Company to procure a judgment in its favor. Pursuant to this Section 4, Indemnitee shall be indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on his or her behalf in connection with such Proceeding or any claim, issue or matter therein, if Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company. No indemnification for Expenses shall be made under this Section 4 in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which Indemnitee shall have been finally adjudged by a court to be liable to the Company, unless and only to the extent that the Delaware Court of Chancery (the “Delaware Court”) shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification for such expenses as the Delaware Court shall deem proper.

 

Section 5. Indemnification for Expenses of a Party Who is Wholly or Partly Successful. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement and except as provided in Section 7, to the extent that Indemnitee is a party to or a participant in any Proceeding and is successful in such Proceeding or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on his or her behalf in connection with each successfully resolved claim, issue or matter. For purposes of this Section and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

Section 6. Reimbursement for Expenses of a Witness or in Response to a Subpoena. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee, by reason of his or her Corporate Status, (i) is a witness in any Proceeding to which Indemnitee is not a party and is not threatened to be made a party or (ii) receives a subpoena with respect to any Proceeding to which Indemnitee is not a party and is not threatened to be made a party, the Company shall reimburse Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by him or her or on his or her behalf in connection therewith.

 

Section 7. Exclusions. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, the Company shall not be obligated under this Agreement:

 

(a) to indemnify for amounts otherwise indemnifiable hereunder (or for which advancement is provided hereunder) if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such amounts under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise; provided that the foregoing shall not [i] apply to any personal or umbrella liability insurance maintained by Indemnitee, [or, (ii) affect the rights of Indemnitee or the Fund Indemnitors as set forth in Section 13(c)];

 

(b) to indemnify for an accounting of profits made from the purchase and sale (or sale and purchase) by Indemnitee of securities of the Company within the meaning of Section 16(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or similar provisions of state statutory law or common law, or from the purchase or sale by Indemnitee of such securities in violation of Section 306 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“SOX”);

 

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(c) to indemnify with respect to any Proceeding, or part thereof, brought by Indemnitee against the Company, any legal entity which it controls, any director or officer thereof or any third party, unless (i) the Board has consented to the initiation of such Proceeding or part thereof and (ii) the Company provides the indemnification, in its sole discretion, pursuant to the powers vested in the Company under applicable law; provided, however, that this Section 7(c) shall not apply to (A) counterclaims or affirmative defenses asserted by Indemnitee in an action brought against Indemnitee or (B) any action brought by Indemnitee for indemnification or advancement from the Company under this Agreement or under any directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies maintained by the Company in the suit for which indemnification or advancement is being sought as described in Section 12; or

 

(d) to provide any indemnification or advancement of expenses that is prohibited by applicable law (as such law exists at the time payment would otherwise be required pursuant to this Agreement).

 

Section 8. Advancement of Expenses. Subject to Section 9(b), the Company shall advance, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any Proceeding, and such advancement shall be made within thirty (30) days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advances (including any invoices received by Indemnitee, which such invoices may be redacted as necessary to avoid the waiver of any privilege accorded by applicable law) from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of any Proceeding. Advances shall be unsecured and interest free. Advances shall be made without regard to Indemnitee’s (i) ability to repay the expenses, (ii) ultimate entitlement to indemnification under the other provisions of this Agreement, and (iii) entitlement to and availability of insurance coverage, including advancement, payment or reimbursement of defense costs, expenses or covered loss under the provisions of any applicable insurance policy (including, without limitation, whether such advancement, payment or reimbursement is withheld, conditioned or delayed by the insurer(s)). Indemnitee shall qualify for advances upon the execution and delivery to the Company of this Agreement which shall constitute an undertaking providing that Indemnitee undertakes to the fullest extent required by law to repay the advance if and to the extent that it is ultimately determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in a final judgment, not subject to appeal, that Indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified by the Company. No other form of undertaking shall be required. The right to advances under this paragraph shall in all events continue until final disposition of any Proceeding, including any appeal therein. Nothing in this Section 8 shall limit Indemnitee’s right to advancement pursuant to Section 12(e) of this Agreement.

 

Section 9. Procedure for Notification and Defense of Claim.

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request therefor specifying the basis for the claim, the amounts for which Indemnitee is seeking payment under this Agreement, and all documentation related thereto as reasonably requested by the Company.

 

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(b) In the event that the Company shall be obligated hereunder to provide indemnification for or make any advancement of Expenses with respect to any Proceeding, the Company shall be entitled to assume the defense of such Proceeding, or any claim, issue or matter therein, with counsel approved by Indemnitee (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed) upon the delivery to Indemnitee of written notice of the Company’s election to do so. After delivery of such notice, approval of such counsel by Indemnitee and the retention of such counsel by the Company, the Company will not be liable to Indemnitee under this Agreement for any fees or expenses of separate counsel subsequently employed by or on behalf of Indemnitee with respect to the same Proceeding; provided that (i) Indemnitee shall have the right to employ separate counsel in any such Proceeding at Indemnitee’s expense and (ii) if (A) the employment of separate counsel by Indemnitee has been previously authorized by the Company, (B) Indemnitee shall have reasonably concluded that there may be a conflict of interest between the Company and Indemnitee in the conduct of such defense, (C) the Company shall not continue to retain such counsel to defend such Proceeding, or (D) a Change in Control shall have occurred, then the fees and expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee with respect to his or her separate counsel shall be Expenses hereunder.

 

(c) In the event that the Company does not assume the defense in a Proceeding pursuant to paragraph (b) above, then the Company will be entitled to participate in the Proceeding at its own expense.

 

(d) The Company shall not be liable to indemnify Indemnitee under this Agreement for any amounts paid in settlement of any Proceeding effected without its prior written consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the fact that an insurer under an applicable insurance policy delays or is unwilling to consent to such settlement or is or may be in breach of its obligations under such policy, or the fact that directors’ and officers’ liability insurance is otherwise unavailable or not maintained by the Company, may not be taken into account by the Company in determining whether to provide its consent. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed), enter into any settlement which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, any non-monetary remedy imposed on Indemnitee or any monetary damages for which Indemnitee is not wholly and actually indemnified hereunder or (ii) with respect to any Proceeding with respect to which Indemnitee may be or is made a party or may be otherwise entitled to seek indemnification hereunder, does not include the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding.

 

Section 10. Procedure Upon Application for Indemnification.

 

(a) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 9(a), a determination, if such determination is required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification hereunder shall be made in the specific case by one of the following methods: (x) if a Change in Control shall have occurred, by Independent Counsel in a written opinion to the Board; or (y) if a Change in Control shall not have occurred: (i) by a majority vote of the disinterested directors, even though less than a quorum; (ii) by a committee of disinterested directors designated by a majority vote of the disinterested directors, even though less than a quorum; or (iii) if there are no disinterested directors or if the disinterested directors so direct, by Independent Counsel in a written opinion to the Board. For purposes hereof, disinterested directors are those members of the Board who are not parties to the action, suit or proceeding in respect of which indemnification is sought. In the case that such determination is made by Independent Counsel, a copy of Independent Counsel’s written opinion shall be delivered to Indemnitee and, if it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, payment to Indemnitee shall be made within ten (10) days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Independent Counsel or the Company, as applicable, in making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such counsel or the Company, upon reasonable advance request, any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary to such determination. The Company shall likewise cooperate with Indemnitee and Independent Counsel, if applicable, in making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such counsel and Indemnitee, upon reasonable advance request, any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to the Company and reasonably necessary to such determination. Any out-of-pocket costs or expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and disbursements) actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the Independent Counsel or the Company shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company hereby indemnifies and agrees to hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

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(b) If the determination of entitlement to indemnification is to be made by Independent Counsel pursuant to Section 10(a), the Independent Counsel shall be selected by the Board if a Change in Control shall not have occurred or, if a Change in Control shall have occurred, by Indemnitee. Indemnitee or the Company, as the case may be, may, within ten (10) days after written notice of such selection, deliver to the Company or Indemnitee, as the case may be, a written objection to such selection; provided, however, that such objection may be asserted only on the ground that the Independent Counsel so selected does not meet the requirements of “Independent Counsel” as defined in Section 2 of this Agreement, and the objection shall set forth with particularity the factual basis of such assertion. Absent a proper and timely objection, the person so selected shall act as Independent Counsel. If such written objection is so made and substantiated, the Independent Counsel so selected may not serve as Independent Counsel unless and until such objection is withdrawn or the Delaware Court has determined that such objection is without merit. If, within twenty (20) days after the later of (i) submission by Indemnitee of a written request for indemnification pursuant to Section 9(a), and (ii) the final disposition of the Proceeding, including any appeal therein, no Independent Counsel shall have been selected without objection, either Indemnitee or the Company may petition the Delaware Court for resolution of any objection which shall have been made by Indemnitee or the Company to the selection of Independent Counsel and/or for the appointment as Independent Counsel of a person selected by the court or by such other person as the court shall designate. The person with respect to whom all objections are so resolved or the person so appointed shall act as Independent Counsel under Section 10(a) hereof. Upon the due commencement of any judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to Section 12(a) of this Agreement, Independent Counsel shall be discharged and relieved of any further responsibility in such capacity (subject to the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing).

 

(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, the determination of entitlement to indemnification under this Agreement shall be made without regard to the Indemnitee’s entitlement to and availability of insurance coverage, including advancement, payment or reimbursement of defense costs, expenses or covered loss under the provisions of any applicable insurance policy (including, without limitation, whether such advancement, payment or reimbursement is withheld, conditioned or delayed by the insurer(s)).

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings.

 

(a) To the extent permitted by applicable law, in making a determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, it shall be presumed that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 9(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of proof and the burden of persuasion by clear and convincing evidence to overcome that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, or upon a plea of guilty, nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not (except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement) of itself adversely affect the right of Indemnitee to indemnification or create a presumption that Indemnitee did not act in good faith and in a manner which he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company or, with respect to any criminal Proceeding, that Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.

 

(c) Indemnitee shall be deemed to have acted in good faith if Indemnitee’s actions based on the records or books of account of the Company or any other Enterprise, including financial statements, or on information supplied to Indemnitee by the directors, officers, agents or employees of the Company or any other Enterprise in the course of their duties, or on the advice of legal counsel for the Company or any other Enterprise or on information or records given or reports made to the Company or any other Enterprise by an independent certified public accountant or by an appraiser or other expert selected with reasonable care by the Company or any other Enterprise. The provisions of this Section 11(c) shall not be deemed to be exclusive or to limit in any way the other circumstances in which Indemnitee may be deemed to have met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in this Agreement. In addition, the knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of the Company, any subsidiary of the Company, or any Enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining the right to indemnification under this Agreement. Whether or not the foregoing provisions of this Section 11(c) are satisfied, it shall in any event be presumed that Indemnitee has at all times acted in good faith and in a manner Indemnitee reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company. Anyone seeking to overcome this presumption shall have the burden of proof and the burden of persuasion by clear and convincing evidence.

 

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Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee.

 

(a) Subject to Section 12(f), in the event that (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10 of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advancement of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(a) of this Agreement within sixty (60) days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification for which a determination is to be made other than by Independent Counsel, (iv) payment of indemnification or reimbursement of expenses is not made pursuant to Section 5 or 6 or the last sentence of Section 10(a) of this Agreement within ten (10) days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor (including any invoices received by Indemnitee, which such invoices may be redacted as necessary to avoid the waiver of any privilege accorded by applicable law) or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to Section 3 or 4 of this Agreement is not made within ten (10) days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication by the Delaware Court of his or her entitlement to such indemnification or advancement. Alternatively, Indemnitee, at his or her option, may seek an award in arbitration to be conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association. Indemnitee shall commence such proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing time limitation shall not apply in respect of a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce his or her rights under Section 5 of this Agreement. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

(b) In the event that a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(a) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification, any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 shall be conducted in all respects as a de novo trial, or arbitration, on the merits and Indemnitee shall not be prejudiced by reason of that adverse determination. In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, the Company shall have the burden of proving Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advancement, as the case may be.

 

(c) If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(a) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent (i) a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification, or (ii) a prohibition of such indemnification under applicable law.

 

(d) The Company shall be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all the provisions of this Agreement.

 

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(e) The Company shall indemnify Indemnitee to the fullest extent permitted by law against any and all Enforcement Expenses and, if requested by Indemnitee, shall (within ten (10) days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor) advance, to the extent not prohibited by law, such Enforcement Expenses to Indemnitee, which are incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any action brought by Indemnitee for indemnification or advancement from the Company under this Agreement or under any directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies maintained by the Company in the suit for which indemnification or advancement is being sought. Such written request for advancement shall include invoices received by Indemnitee in connection with such Enforcement Expenses but, in the case of invoices in connection with legal services, any references to legal work performed or to expenditures made that would cause Indemnitee to waive any privilege accorded by applicable law need not be included with the invoice.

 

(f) Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, no determination as to entitlement to indemnification under this Agreement shall be required to be made prior to the final disposition of the Proceeding, including any appeal therein.

 

Section 13. Non-exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Insurance; Primacy of Indemnification; Subrogation.

 

(a) The rights of indemnification and to receive advancement as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the Charter, the Bylaws, any agreement, a vote of stockholders or a resolution of directors, or otherwise. No amendment, alteration or repeal of this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in his or her Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal. To the extent that a change in Delaware law, whether by statute or judicial decision, permits greater indemnification or advancement than would be afforded currently under the Charter, Bylaws and this Agreement, it is the intent of the parties hereto that Indemnitee shall enjoy by this Agreement the greater benefits so afforded by such change. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right and remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) To the extent that the Company maintains an insurance policy or policies providing liability insurance for directors, managers, partners, officers, employees, agents or trustees of the Company or of any other Enterprise, Indemnitee shall be covered by such policy or policies in accordance with its or their terms to the maximum extent of the coverage available for any such director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee under such policy or policies. If, at the time of the receipt of a notice of a claim pursuant to the terms hereof, the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such claim to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies. The Company shall thereafter take all necessary or desirable action to cause such insurers to pay, on behalf of the Indemnitee, all amounts payable as a result of such Proceeding in accordance with the terms of such policies. Upon request of Indemnitee, the Company shall also promptly provide to Indemnitee: (i) copies of all of the Company’s potentially applicable directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies, (ii) copies of such notices delivered to the applicable insurers, and (iii) copies of all subsequent communications and correspondence between the Company and such insurers regarding the Proceeding.

 

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(c) [The Company hereby acknowledges that Indemnitee has certain rights to indemnification, advancement of expenses and/or insurance provided by [________________] and certain of its affiliates (collectively, the “Fund Indemnitors”). The Company hereby agrees (i) that it is the indemnitor of first resort (i.e., its obligations to Indemnitee are primary and any obligation of the Fund Indemnitors to advance expenses or to provide indemnification for the same expenses or liabilities incurred by Indemnitee are secondary), (ii) that it shall be required to advance the full amount of expenses incurred by Indemnitee and shall be liable for the full amount of all Expenses, judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement to the extent legally permitted and as required by the terms of this Agreement and the Charter and/or Bylaws (or any other agreement between the Company and Indemnitee), without regard to any rights Indemnitee may have against the Fund Indemnitors, and (iii) 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 Indemnitee with respect to any claim for which Indemnitee 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 Indemnitee against the Company. The Company and Indemnitee agree that the Fund Indemnitors are express third party beneficiaries of the terms of this Section 13(c).]

 

(d) [Except as provided in paragraph (c) above,] [I/i]n the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee [(other than against the Fund Indemnitors)], who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

(e) [Except as provided in paragraph (c) above,] [T/t]he Company’s obligation to provide indemnification or advancement hereunder to Indemnitee who is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of any other Enterprise shall be reduced by any amount Indemnitee has actually received as indemnification or advancement from such other Enterprise.

 

Section 14. Duration of Agreement. This Agreement shall continue until and terminate upon the later of: (a) ten (10) years after the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as a director of the Company or (b) one (1) year after the final termination of any Proceeding, including any appeal, then pending in respect of which Indemnitee is granted rights of indemnification or advancement hereunder and of any proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement relating thereto. This Agreement shall be binding upon the Company and its successors and assigns and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and his or her heirs, executors and administrators. The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

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Section 15. Severability. If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any section of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any section of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 16. Enforcement.

 

(a) The Company expressly confirms and agrees that it has entered into this Agreement and assumed the obligations imposed on it hereby in order to induce Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve as a director of the Company, and the Company acknowledges that Indemnitee is relying upon this Agreement in serving as a director of the Company.

 

(b) This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, oral, written and implied, between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof; provided, however, that this Agreement is a supplement to and in furtherance of the Charter, the Bylaws and applicable law, and shall not be deemed a substitute therefor, nor to diminish or abrogate any rights of Indemnitee thereunder.

 

Section 17. Modification and Waiver. No supplement, modification or amendment, or waiver of any provision, of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by the parties thereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions of this Agreement nor shall any waiver constitute a continuing waiver. No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee prior to such supplement, modification or amendment.

 

Section 18. Notice by Indemnitee. Indemnitee agrees promptly to notify the Company in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, information or other document relating to any Proceeding or matter which may be subject to indemnification, reimbursement or advancement as provided hereunder. The failure of Indemnitee to so notify the Company or any delay in notification shall not relieve the Company of any obligation which it may have to Indemnitee under this Agreement or otherwise, unless, and then only to the extent that, the Company did not otherwise learn of the Proceeding and such delay is materially prejudicial to the Company’s ability to defend such Proceeding or matter; and, provided, further, that notice will be deemed to have been given without any action on the part of Indemnitee in the event the Company is a party to the same Proceeding.

 

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Section 19. Notices. All notices, requests, demands and other communications under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed, (iii) mailed by reputable overnight courier and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed or (iv) sent by facsimile transmission, with receipt of oral confirmation that such transmission has been received:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, at such address as Indemnitee shall provide to the Company.

 

(b) If to the Company to:

 

Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

555 Skokie Blvd., Suite 340

Northbrook, IL 60062

Attention: Chief Executive Officer

 

or to any other address as may have been furnished to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 20. Contribution. To the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, if the indemnification provided for in this Agreement is unavailable to Indemnitee for any reason whatsoever, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying Indemnitee, shall contribute to the amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for judgments, fines, penalties, excise taxes, amounts paid or to be paid in settlement and/or for Expenses, in connection with any Proceeding in such proportion as is deemed fair and reasonable in light of all of the circumstances in order to reflect (i) the relative benefits received by the Company and Indemnitee in connection with the event(s) and/or transaction(s) giving rise to such Proceeding; and/or (ii) the relative fault of the Company (and its directors, officers, employees and agents) and Indemnitee in connection with such event(s) and/or transactions.

 

Section 21. Internal Revenue Code Section 409A. The Company intends for this Agreement to comply with the Indemnification exception under Section 1.409A-1(b)(10) of the regulations promulgated under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), which provides that indemnification of, or the purchase of an insurance policy providing for payments of, all or part of the expenses incurred or damages paid or payable by Indemnitee with respect to a bona fide claim against Indemnitee or the Company do not provide for a deferral of compensation, subject to Section 409A of the Code, where such claim is based on actions or failures to act by Indemnitee in his or her capacity as a service provider of the Company. The parties intend that this Agreement be interpreted and construed with such intent.

 

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Section 22. Applicable Law and Consent to Jurisdiction. This Agreement and the legal relations among the parties shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to its conflict of laws rules. Except with respect to any arbitration commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12(a) of this Agreement, the Company and Indemnitee hereby irrevocably and unconditionally (i) agree that any action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be brought only in the Delaware Court, and not in any other state or federal court in the United States of America or any court in any other country, (ii) consent to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Delaware Court for purposes of any action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Agreement, (iii) consent to service of process at the address set forth in Section 19 of this Agreement with the same legal force and validity as if served upon such party personally within the State of Delaware, (iv) waive any objection to the laying of venue of any such action or proceeding in the Delaware Court, and (v) waive, and agree not to plead or to make, any claim that any such action or proceeding brought in the Delaware Court has been brought in an improper or inconvenient forum.

 

Section 23. Headings. The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 24. Identical Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall for all purposes be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same Agreement. Only one such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought needs to be produced to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 25. Monetary Damages Insufficient/Specific Enforcement. The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult of proof, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm (having agreed that actual and irreparable harm will result in not forcing the Company to specifically perform its obligations pursuant to this Agreement) and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which he may be entitled. The Company and Indemnitee further agree that Indemnitee shall be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertaking in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by the Court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of a bond or undertaking.

 

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be signed as of the day and year first above written.

 

  CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.
   
  By:   
    Name:  
    Title:
       
       
     
    [Name of Indemnitee]

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.3

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.

 

FORM OF OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

This Indemnification Agreement (“Agreement”) is made as of ________________ by and between Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and ________________ (“Indemnitee”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to attract and retain the services of highly qualified individuals, such as Indemnitee, to serve the Company;

 

WHEREAS, in order to induce Indemnitee to provide or continue to provide services to the Company, the Company wishes to provide for the indemnification of, and advancement of expenses to, Indemnitee to the maximum extent permitted by law;

 

WHEREAS, the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (as amended and in effect from time to time, the “Charter”) and the Amended and Restated Bylaws (as amended and in effect from time to time, the “Bylaws”) of the Company require indemnification of the officers and directors of the Company, and Indemnitee may also be entitled to indemnification pursuant to the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”);

 

WHEREAS, the Charter, the Bylaws, and the DGCL expressly provide that the indemnification provisions set forth therein are not exclusive, and thereby contemplate that contracts may be entered into between the Company and members of the board of directors, officers and other persons with respect to indemnification;

 

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) has determined that the increased difficulty in attracting and retaining highly qualified persons such as Indemnitee is detrimental to the best interests of the Company’s stockholders;

 

WHEREAS, it is reasonable and prudent for the Company contractually to obligate itself to indemnify, and to advance expenses on behalf of, such persons to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, regardless of any amendment or revocation of the Charter or the Bylaws, so that they will serve or continue to serve the Company free from undue concern that they will not be so indemnified; and

 

WHEREAS, this Agreement is a supplement to and in furtherance of the indemnification provided in the Charter, the Bylaws and any resolutions adopted pursuant thereto, and shall not be deemed a substitute therefor, nor to diminish or abrogate any rights of Indemnitee thereunder.

 

 

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Services to the Company. Indemnitee agrees to serve as [a director and] an officer of the Company. Indemnitee may at any time and for any reason resign from [any] such position (subject to any other contractual obligation or any obligation imposed by law), in which event the Company shall have no obligation under this Agreement to continue Indemnitee in such position. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any of its subsidiaries or any Enterprise) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 2. Definitions.

 

As used in this Agreement:

 

(a) “Affiliate” and “Associate” shall have the respective meanings ascribed to such terms in Rule 12b-2 of the General Rules and Regulations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as in effect on the date of this Agreement; provided, however, that no Person who is a director or officer of the Company shall be deemed an Affiliate or an Associate of any other director or officer of the Company solely as a result of his or her position as director or officer of the Company.

 

(b) A Person shall be deemed the “Beneficial Owner” of, and shall be deemed to “Beneficially Own” and have “Beneficial Ownership” of, any securities:

 

(i) which such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates, directly or indirectly, Beneficially Owns (as determined pursuant to Rule 13d-3 of the Rules under the Exchange Act, as in effect on the date of this Agreement);

 

(ii) which such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates, directly or indirectly, has: (A) the legal, equitable or contractual right or obligation to acquire (whether directly or indirectly and whether exercisable immediately or only after the passage of time, compliance with regulatory requirements, satisfaction of one or more conditions (whether or not within the control of such Person) or otherwise) upon the exercise of any conversion rights, exchange rights, rights, warrants or options, or otherwise; (B) the right to vote pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether or not in writing); or (C) the right to dispose of pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether or not in writing) (other than customary arrangements with and between underwriters and selling group members with respect to a bona fide public offering of securities);

 

(iii) which are Beneficially Owned, directly or indirectly, by any other Person (or any Affiliate or Associate thereof) with which such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates has any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether or not in writing) (other than customary agreements with and between underwriters and selling group members with respect to a bona fide public offering of securities) for the purpose of acquiring, holding, voting or disposing of any securities of the Company; or

 

(iv) that are the subject of a derivative transaction entered into by such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates, including, for these purposes, any derivative security acquired by such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates that gives such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates the economic equivalent of ownership of an amount of securities due to the fact that the value of the derivative security is explicitly determined by reference to the price or value of such securities, or that provides such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates an opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or to share in any profit derived from any change in the value of such securities, in any case without regard to whether (A) such derivative security conveys any voting rights in such securities to such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates; (B) the derivative security is required to be, or capable of being, settled through delivery of such securities; or (C) such Person or any of such Person’s Affiliates or Associates may have entered into other transactions that hedge the economic effect of such derivative security;

 

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, no Person engaged in business as an underwriter of securities shall be deemed the Beneficial Owner of any securities acquired through such Person’s participation as an underwriter in good faith in a firm commitment underwriting.

 

(c) A “Change in Control” shall be deemed to occur upon the earliest to occur after the date of this Agreement of any of the following events:

 

(i) Acquisition of Stock by Third Party. Any Person is or becomes the Beneficial Owner (as defined above), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities unless the change in relative Beneficial Ownership of the Company’s securities by any Person results solely from a reduction in the aggregate number of outstanding shares of securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, provided that a Change of Control shall be deemed to have occurred if subsequent to such reduction such Person becomes the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of any additional securities of the Company conferring upon such Person any additional voting power;

 

(ii) Change in Board of Directors. During any period of two (2) consecutive years (not including any period prior to the execution of this Agreement), individuals who at the beginning of such period constitute the Board, and any new director (other than a director designated by a Person who has entered into an agreement with the Company to effect a transaction described in Sections 2(c)(i), 2(c)(iii) or 2(c)(iv)) whose election by the Board or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved, cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the members of the Board;

 

(iii) Corporate Transactions. The effective date of a merger or consolidation of the Company with any other entity, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving or successor entity) more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of the surviving or successor entity outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation and with the power to elect at least a majority of the board of directors or other governing body of such surviving or successor entity;

 

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(iv) Liquidation. The approval by the stockholders of the Company of a complete liquidation of the Company or an agreement for the sale, lease, exchange or other transfer by the Company, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets; and

 

(v) Other Events. There occurs any other event of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or a response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement.

 

(d) “Corporate Status” describes the status of a person as a current or former [director or] officer of the Company or current or former director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of any other Enterprise which such person is or was serving at the request of the Company.

 

(e) “Enforcement Expenses” shall include all reasonable attorneys’ fees, court costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, and all other out-of-pocket disbursements or expenses of the types customarily incurred in connection with an action to enforce indemnification or advancement rights, or an appeal from such action. Expenses, however, shall not include fees, salaries, wages or benefits owed to Indemnitee.

 

(f) “Enterprise” shall mean any corporation (other than the Company), partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan, limited liability company, or other legal entity of which Indemnitee is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee.

 

(g) “Expenses” shall include all reasonable attorneys’ fees, court costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, and all other out-of-pocket disbursements or expenses of the types customarily incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in, or otherwise participating in, a Proceeding or an appeal resulting from a Proceeding. Expenses, however, shall not include amounts paid in settlement by Indemnitee, the amount of judgments or fines against Indemnitee or fees, salaries, wages or benefits owed to Indemnitee.

 

(h) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a partner (or, if applicable, member or shareholder) of such a law firm, that is experienced in matters of Delaware corporation law and neither presently is, nor in the past five (5) years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company, any subsidiary of the Company, any Enterprise or Indemnitee in any matter material to any such party; or (ii) any other party to the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any Person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay the reasonable fees and expenses of the Independent Counsel referred to above and to fully indemnify such counsel against any and all expenses, claims, liabilities and damages arising out of or relating to this Agreement or its engagement pursuant hereto.

 

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(i) “Person” shall mean (i) an individual, a corporation, a partnership, a limited liability company, an association, a joint stock company, a trust, a business trust, a government or political subdivision, any unincorporated organization, or any other association or entity including any successor (by merger or otherwise) thereof or thereto, and (ii) a “group” as that term is used for purposes of Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(j) The term “Proceeding” shall include any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil, criminal, administrative, regulatory or investigative nature, and whether formal or informal, in which Indemnitee was, is or will be involved as a party or otherwise by reason of the fact that Indemnitee is or was [a director or] an officer of the Company or is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of any Enterprise or by reason of any action taken by Indemnitee or of any action taken on his or her part while acting as [a director or] an officer of the Company or while serving at the request of the Company as a director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of any Enterprise, in each case whether or not serving in such capacity at the time any liability or expense is incurred for which indemnification, reimbursement or advancement of expenses can be provided under this Agreement; provided, however, that the term “Proceeding” shall not include any action, suit or arbitration, or part thereof, initiated by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement as provided for in Section 12(a) of this Agreement.

 

Section 3. Indemnity in Third-Party Proceedings. The Company shall indemnify Indemnitee to the extent set forth in this Section 3 if Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or a participant in any Proceeding, other than a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company to procure a judgment in its favor. Pursuant to this Section 3, Indemnitee shall be indemnified against all Expenses, judgments, fines, penalties, excise taxes, and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on his or her behalf in connection with such Proceeding or any claim, issue or matter therein, if Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company and, in the case of a criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.

 

Section 4. Indemnity in Proceedings by or in the Right of the Company. The Company shall indemnify Indemnitee to the extent set forth in this Section 4 if Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or a participant in any Proceeding by or in the right of the Company to procure a judgment in its favor. Pursuant to this Section 4, Indemnitee shall be indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on his or her behalf in connection with such Proceeding or any claim, issue or matter therein, if Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company. No indemnification for Expenses shall be made under this Section 4 in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which Indemnitee shall have been finally adjudged by a court to be liable to the Company, unless and only to the extent that the Delaware Court of Chancery (the “Delaware Court”) shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification for such expenses as the Delaware Court shall deem proper.

 

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Section 5. Indemnification for Expenses of a Party Who is Wholly or Partly Successful. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement and except as provided in Section 7, to the extent that Indemnitee is a party to or a participant in any Proceeding and is successful in such Proceeding or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on his or her behalf in connection with each successfully resolved claim, issue or matter. For purposes of this Section and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

Section 6. Reimbursement for Expenses of a Witness or in Response to a Subpoena. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee, by reason of his or her Corporate Status, (i) is a witness in any Proceeding to which Indemnitee is not a party and is not threatened to be made a party or (ii) receives a subpoena with respect to any Proceeding to which Indemnitee is not a party and is not threatened to be made a party, the Company shall reimburse Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by him or her or on his or her behalf in connection therewith.

 

Section 7. Exclusions. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, the Company shall not be obligated under this Agreement:

 

(a) to indemnify for amounts otherwise indemnifiable hereunder (or for which advancement is provided hereunder) if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such amounts under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise; provided that the foregoing shall not apply to any personal or umbrella liability insurance maintained by Indemnitee;

 

(b) to indemnify for an accounting of profits made from the purchase and sale (or sale and purchase) by Indemnitee of securities of the Company within the meaning of Section 16(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or similar provisions of state statutory law or common law, or from the purchase or sale by Indemnitee of such securities in violation of Section 306 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“SOX”);

 

(c) to indemnify for any reimbursement of, or payment to, the Company by Indemnitee of any bonus or other incentive-based or equity-based compensation or of any profits realized by Indemnitee from the sale of securities of the Company pursuant to Section 304 of SOX or any formal policy of the Company adopted by the Board (or a committee thereof), or any other remuneration paid to Indemnitee if it shall be determined by a final judgment or other final adjudication that such remuneration was in violation of law;

 

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(d) to indemnify with respect to any Proceeding, or part thereof, brought by Indemnitee against the Company, any legal entity which it controls, any director or officer thereof or any third party, unless (i) the Board has consented to the initiation of such Proceeding or part thereof and (ii) the Company provides the indemnification, in its sole discretion, pursuant to the powers vested in the Company under applicable law; provided, however, that this Section 7(d) shall not apply to (A) counterclaims or affirmative defenses asserted by Indemnitee in an action brought against Indemnitee or (B) any action brought by Indemnitee for indemnification or advancement from the Company under this Agreement or under any directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies maintained by the Company in the suit for which indemnification or advancement is being sought as described in Section 12; or

 

(e) to provide any indemnification or advancement of expenses that is prohibited by applicable law (as such law exists at the time payment would otherwise be required pursuant to this Agreement).

 

Section 8. Advancement of Expenses. Subject to Section 9(b), the Company shall advance the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any Proceeding, and such advancement shall be made within thirty (30) days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advances (including any invoices received by Indemnitee, which such invoices may be redacted as necessary to avoid the waiver of any privilege accorded by applicable law) from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of any Proceeding. Advances shall be unsecured and interest free. Advances shall be made without regard to Indemnitee’s (i) ability to repay the expenses, (ii) ultimate entitlement to indemnification under the other provisions of this Agreement, and (iii) entitlement to and availability of insurance coverage, including advancement, payment or reimbursement of defense costs, expenses or covered loss under the provisions of any applicable insurance policy (including, without limitation, whether such advancement, payment or reimbursement is withheld, conditioned or delayed by the insurer(s)). Indemnitee shall qualify for advances upon the execution and delivery to the Company of this Agreement which shall constitute an undertaking providing that Indemnitee undertakes to the fullest extent required by law to repay the advance if and to the extent that it is ultimately determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in a final judgment, not subject to appeal, that Indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified by the Company. No other form of undertaking shall be required. The right to advances under this paragraph shall in all events continue until final disposition of any Proceeding, including any appeal therein. Nothing in this Section 8 shall limit Indemnitee’s right to advancement pursuant to Section 12(e) of this Agreement.

 

Section 9. Procedure for Notification and Defense of Claim.

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request therefor specifying the basis for the claim, the amounts for which Indemnitee is seeking payment under this Agreement, and all documentation related thereto as reasonably requested by the Company.

 

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(b) In the event that the Company shall be obligated hereunder to provide indemnification for or make any advancement of Expenses with respect to any Proceeding, the Company shall be entitled to assume the defense of such Proceeding, or any claim, issue or matter therein, with counsel approved by Indemnitee (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed) upon the delivery to Indemnitee of written notice of the Company’s election to do so. After delivery of such notice, approval of such counsel by Indemnitee and the retention of such counsel by the Company, the Company will not be liable to Indemnitee under this Agreement for any fees or expenses of separate counsel subsequently employed by or on behalf of Indemnitee with respect to the same Proceeding; provided that (i) Indemnitee shall have the right to employ separate counsel in any such Proceeding at Indemnitee’s expense and (ii) if (A) the employment of separate counsel by Indemnitee has been previously authorized by the Company, (B) Indemnitee shall have reasonably concluded that there may be a conflict of interest between the Company and Indemnitee in the conduct of such defense, (C) the Company shall not continue to retain such counsel to defend such Proceeding, or (D) a Change in Control shall have occurred, then the fees and expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee with respect to his or her separate counsel shall be Expenses hereunder.

 

(c) In the event that the Company does not assume the defense in a Proceeding pursuant to paragraph (b) above, then the Company will be entitled to participate in the Proceeding at its own expense.

 

(d) The Company shall not be liable to indemnify Indemnitee under this Agreement for any amounts paid in settlement of any Proceeding effected without its prior written consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the fact that an insurer under an applicable insurance policy delays or is unwilling to consent to such settlement or is or may be in breach of its obligations under such policy, or the fact that directors’ and officers’ liability insurance is otherwise unavailable or not maintained by the Company, may not be taken into account by the Company in determining whether to provide its consent. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed), enter into any settlement which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, any non-monetary remedy imposed on Indemnitee or any monetary damages for which Indemnitee is not wholly and actually indemnified hereunder or (ii) with respect to any Proceeding with respect to which Indemnitee may be or is made a party or may be otherwise entitled to seek indemnification hereunder, does not include the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding.

 

Section 10. Procedure Upon Application for Indemnification.

 

(a) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 9(a), a determination, if such determination is required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification hereunder shall be made in the specific case by one of the following methods: (x) if a Change in Control shall have occurred and indemnification is being requested by Indemnitee hereunder in his or her capacity as a director of the Company, by Independent Counsel in a written opinion to the Board; or (y) in any other case, (i) by a majority vote of the disinterested directors, even though less than a quorum; (ii) by a committee of disinterested directors designated by a majority vote of the disinterested directors, even though less than a quorum; or (iii) if there are no disinterested directors or if the disinterested directors so direct, by Independent Counsel in a written opinion to the Board. For purposes hereof, disinterested directors are those members of the Board who are not parties to the action, suit or proceeding in respect of which indemnification is sought. In the case that such determination is made by Independent Counsel, a copy of Independent Counsel’s written opinion shall be delivered to Indemnitee and, if it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, payment to Indemnitee shall be made within ten (10) days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Independent Counsel or the Company, as applicable, in making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such counsel or the Company, upon reasonable advance request, any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary to such determination. The Company shall likewise cooperate with Indemnitee and Independent Counsel, if applicable, in making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such counsel and Indemnitee, upon reasonable advance request, any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to the Company and reasonably necessary to such determination. Any out-of-pocket costs or expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and disbursements) actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the Independent Counsel or the Company shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company hereby indemnifies and agrees to hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

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(b) If the determination of entitlement to indemnification is to be made by Independent Counsel pursuant to Section 10(a), the Independent Counsel shall be selected by the Board; provided that, if a Change in Control shall have occurred and indemnification is being requested by Indemnitee hereunder in his or her capacity as a director of the Company, the Independent Counsel shall be selected by Indemnitee. Indemnitee or the Company, as the case may be, may, within ten (10) days after written notice of such selection, deliver to the Company or Indemnitee, as the case may be, a written objection to such selection; provided, however, that such objection may be asserted only on the ground that the Independent Counsel so selected does not meet the requirements of “Independent Counsel” as defined in Section 2 of this Agreement, and the objection shall set forth with particularity the factual basis of such assertion. Absent a proper and timely objection, the Person so selected shall act as Independent Counsel. If such written objection is so made and substantiated, the Independent Counsel so selected may not serve as Independent Counsel unless and until such objection is withdrawn or the Delaware Court has determined that such objection is without merit. If, within twenty (20) days after the later of (i) submission by Indemnitee of a written request for indemnification pursuant to Section 9(a), and (ii) the final disposition of the Proceeding, including any appeal therein, no Independent Counsel shall have been selected without objection, either Indemnitee or the Company may petition the Delaware Court for resolution of any objection which shall have been made by Indemnitee or the Company to the selection of Independent Counsel and/or for the appointment as Independent Counsel of a Person selected by the court or by such other Person as the court shall designate. The Person with respect to whom all objections are so resolved or the Person so appointed shall act as Independent Counsel under Section 10(a) hereof. Upon the due commencement of any judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to Section 12(a) of this Agreement, Independent Counsel shall be discharged and relieved of any further responsibility in such capacity (subject to the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing).

 

(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, the determination of entitlement to indemnification under this Agreement shall be made without regard to the Indemnitee’s entitlement to and availability of insurance coverage, including advancement, payment or reimbursement of defense costs, expenses or covered loss under the provisions of any applicable insurance policy (including, without limitation, whether such advancement, payment or reimbursement is withheld, conditioned or delayed by the insurer(s)).

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings.

 

(a) To the extent permitted by applicable law, in making a determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, it shall be presumed that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 9(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of proof and the burden of persuasion by clear and convincing evidence to overcome that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, or upon a plea of guilty, nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not (except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement) of itself adversely affect the right of Indemnitee to indemnification or create a presumption that Indemnitee did not act in good faith and in a manner which he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company or, with respect to any criminal Proceeding, that Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.

 

(c) Indemnitee shall be deemed to have acted in good faith if Indemnitee’s actions based on the records or books of account of the Company or any other Enterprise, including financial statements, or on information supplied to Indemnitee by the directors, officers, agents or employees of the Company or any other Enterprise in the course of their duties, or on the advice of legal counsel for the Company or any other Enterprise or on information or records given or reports made to the Company or any other Enterprise by an independent certified public accountant or by an appraiser or other expert selected with reasonable care by the Company or any other Enterprise. The provisions of this Section 11(c) shall not be deemed to be exclusive or to limit in any way the other circumstances in which Indemnitee may be deemed to have met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in this Agreement. In addition, the knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of the Company, any subsidiary of the Company, or any Enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining the right to indemnification under this Agreement. Whether or not the foregoing provisions of this Section 11(c) are satisfied, it shall in any event be presumed that Indemnitee has at all times acted in good faith and in a manner Indemnitee reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company. Anyone seeking to overcome this presumption shall have the burden of proof and the burden of persuasion by clear and convincing evidence.

 

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Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee.

 

(a) Subject to Section 12(f), in the event that (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10 of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advancement of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(a) of this Agreement within sixty (60) days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification for which a determination is to be made other than by Independent Counsel, (iv) payment of indemnification or reimbursement of expenses is not made pursuant to Section 5 or 6 or the last sentence of Section 10(a) of this Agreement within ten (10) days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor (including any invoices received by Indemnitee, which such invoices may be redacted as necessary to avoid the waiver of any privilege accorded by applicable law) or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to Section 3 or 4 of this Agreement is not made within ten (10) days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication by the Delaware Court of his or her entitlement to such indemnification or advancement. Alternatively, Indemnitee, at his or her option, may seek an award in arbitration to be conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association. Indemnitee shall commence such proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing time limitation shall not apply in respect of a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce his or her rights under Section 5 of this Agreement. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

(b) In the event that a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(a) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification, any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 shall be conducted in all respects as a de novo trial, or arbitration, on the merits and Indemnitee shall not be prejudiced by reason of that adverse determination. In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, the Company shall have the burden of proving Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advancement, as the case may be.

 

(c) If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(a) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent (i) a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification, or (ii) a prohibition of such indemnification under applicable law.

 

(d) The Company shall be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all the provisions of this Agreement.

 

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(e) The Company shall indemnify Indemnitee to the fullest extent permitted by law against any and all Enforcement Expenses and, if requested by Indemnitee, shall (within ten (10) days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor) advance, to the extent not prohibited by law, such Enforcement Expenses to Indemnitee, which are incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any action brought by Indemnitee for indemnification or advancement from the Company under this Agreement or under any directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies maintained by the Company in the suit for which indemnification or advancement is being sought. Such written request for advancement shall include invoices received by Indemnitee in connection with such Enforcement Expenses but, in the case of invoices in connection with legal services, any references to legal work performed or to expenditures made that would cause Indemnitee to waive any privilege accorded by applicable law need not be included with the invoice.

 

(f) Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, no determination as to entitlement to indemnification under this Agreement shall be required to be made prior to the final disposition of the Proceeding, including any appeal therein.

 

Section 13. Non-exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Insurance; Subrogation.

 

(a) The rights of indemnification and to receive advancement as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the Charter, the Bylaws, any agreement, a vote of stockholders or a resolution of directors, or otherwise. No amendment, alteration or repeal of this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in his or her Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal. To the extent that a change in Delaware law, whether by statute or judicial decision, permits greater indemnification or advancement than would be afforded currently under the Charter, Bylaws and this Agreement, it is the intent of the parties hereto that Indemnitee shall enjoy by this Agreement the greater benefits so afforded by such change. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right and remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) To the extent that the Company maintains an insurance policy or policies providing liability insurance for directors, managers, partners, officers, employees, agents or trustees of the Company or of any other Enterprise, Indemnitee shall be covered by such policy or policies in accordance with its or their terms to the maximum extent of the coverage available for any such director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee under such policy or policies. If, at the time of the receipt of a notice of a claim pursuant to the terms hereof, the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such claim to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies. The Company shall thereafter take all necessary or desirable action to cause such insurers to pay, on behalf of the Indemnitee, all amounts payable as a result of such Proceeding in accordance with the terms of such policies. Upon request of Indemnitee, the Company shall also promptly provide to Indemnitee: (i) copies of all of the Company’s potentially applicable directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies, (ii) copies of such notices delivered to the applicable insurers, and (iii) copies of all subsequent communications and correspondence between the Company and such insurers regarding the Proceeding.

 

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(c) In the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

(d) The Company’s obligation to provide indemnification or advancement hereunder to Indemnitee who is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, manager, partner, officer, employee, agent or trustee of any other Enterprise shall be reduced by any amount Indemnitee has actually received as indemnification or advancement from such other Enterprise.

 

Section 14. Duration of Agreement. This Agreement shall continue until and terminate upon the later of: (a) ten (10) years after the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as [both a director and] an officer of the Company or (b) one (1) year after the final termination of any Proceeding, including any appeal, then pending in respect of which Indemnitee is granted rights of indemnification or advancement hereunder and of any proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement relating thereto. This Agreement shall be binding upon the Company and its successors and assigns and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and his or her heirs, executors and administrators. The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

Section 15. Severability. If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any section of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any section of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 16. Enforcement.

 

(a) The Company expressly confirms and agrees that it has entered into this Agreement and assumed the obligations imposed on it hereby in order to induce Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve as [a director and] an officer of the Company, and the Company acknowledges that Indemnitee is relying upon this Agreement in serving as [a director and] an officer of the Company.

 

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(b) This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, oral, written and implied, between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof; provided, however, that this Agreement is a supplement to and in furtherance of the Charter, the Bylaws and applicable law, and shall not be deemed a substitute therefor, nor to diminish or abrogate any rights of Indemnitee thereunder.

 

Section 17. Modification and Waiver. No supplement, modification or amendment, or waiver of any provision, of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by the parties thereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions of this Agreement nor shall any waiver constitute a continuing waiver. No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee prior to such supplement, modification or amendment.

 

Section 18. Notice by Indemnitee. Indemnitee agrees promptly to notify the Company in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, information or other document relating to any Proceeding or matter which may be subject to indemnification, reimbursement or advancement as provided hereunder. The failure of Indemnitee to so notify the Company or any delay in notification shall not relieve the Company of any obligation which it may have to Indemnitee under this Agreement or otherwise, unless, and then only to the extent that, the Company did not otherwise learn of the Proceeding and such delay is materially prejudicial to the Company’s ability to defend such Proceeding or matter; and, provided, further, that notice will be deemed to have been given without any action on the part of Indemnitee in the event the Company is a party to the same Proceeding.

 

Section 19. Notices. All notices, requests, demands and other communications under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed, (iii) mailed by reputable overnight courier and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed or (iv) sent by facsimile transmission, with receipt of oral confirmation that such transmission has been received:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, at such address as Indemnitee shall provide to the Company.

 

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(b) If to the Company to:

 

Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

555 Skokie Blvd., Suite 340

Northbrook, IL 60062

Attention: Chief Executive Officer

 

or to any other address as may have been furnished to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 20. Contribution. To the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, if the indemnification provided for in this Agreement is unavailable to Indemnitee for any reason whatsoever, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying Indemnitee, shall contribute to the amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for judgments, fines, penalties, excise taxes, amounts paid or to be paid in settlement and/or for Expenses, in connection with any Proceeding in such proportion as is deemed fair and reasonable in light of all of the circumstances in order to reflect (i) the relative benefits received by the Company and Indemnitee in connection with the event(s) and/or transaction(s) giving rise to such Proceeding; and/or (ii) the relative fault of the Company (and its directors, officers, employees and agents) and Indemnitee in connection with such event(s) and/or transactions.

 

Section 21. Internal Revenue Code Section 409A. The Company intends for this Agreement to comply with the Indemnification exception under Section 1.409A-1(b)(10) of the regulations promulgated under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), which provides that indemnification of, or the purchase of an insurance policy providing for payments of, all or part of the expenses incurred or damages paid or payable by Indemnitee with respect to a bona fide claim against Indemnitee or the Company do not provide for a deferral of compensation, subject to Section 409A of the Code, where such claim is based on actions or failures to act by Indemnitee in his or her capacity as a service provider of the Company. The parties intend that this Agreement be interpreted and construed with such intent.

 

Section 22. Applicable Law and Consent to Jurisdiction. This Agreement and the legal relations among the parties shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to its conflict of laws rules. Except with respect to any arbitration commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12(a) of this Agreement, the Company and Indemnitee hereby irrevocably and unconditionally (i) agree that any action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be brought only in the Delaware Court, and not in any other state or federal court in the United States of America or any court in any other country, (ii) consent to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Delaware Court for purposes of any action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Agreement, (iii) consent to service of process at the address set forth in Section 19 of this Agreement with the same legal force and validity as if served upon such party personally within the State of Delaware, (iv) waive any objection to the laying of venue of any such action or proceeding in the Delaware Court, and (v) waive, and agree not to plead or to make, any claim that any such action or proceeding brought in the Delaware Court has been brought in an improper or inconvenient forum.

 

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Section 23. Headings. The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 24. Identical Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall for all purposes be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same Agreement. Only one such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought needs to be produced to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 25. Monetary Damages Insufficient/Specific Enforcement. The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult of proof, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm (having agreed that actual and irreparable harm will result in not forcing the Company to specifically perform its obligations pursuant to this Agreement) and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which he may be entitled. The Company and Indemnitee further agree that Indemnitee shall be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertaking in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by the Court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of a bond or undertaking.

 

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be signed as of the day and year first above written.

 

  CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.
   
  By:   
    Name:  
    Title:
       
       
     
    [Name of Indemnitee]

 

 

 

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Exhibit 10.4

 

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of September 9, 2021 (the “Effective Date”) by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Robert E. Dudley, Ph.D. (“Executive”).

 

WHEREAS, Executive is currently employed by the Company as its Chief Executive Officer and President; and

 

WHEREAS, Executive is a party to an employment agreement with the Company, dated as of February 13, 2004 (the “Prior Agreement”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to continue to employ Executive and to enter into this Agreement embodying the terms of such continued employment, and Executive desires to enter into this Agreement and to accept such employment, subject to the terms and provisions of this Agreement.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants contained herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are mutually acknowledged, the Company and Executive hereby agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions. Capitalized terms not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the meaning set forth on Appendix A, attached hereto.

 

Section 2. Acceptance and Term of Employment.

 

The Company agrees to employ Executive, and Executive agrees to serve the Company, on the terms and conditions set forth herein. Executive’s employment hereunder shall commence on the Effective Date and continue until terminated as provided in Section 7 hereof (the “Term of Employment”).

 

Section 3. Position, Duties, and Responsibilities; Place of Performance.

 

(a) Position, Duties, and Responsibilities. During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be employed and serve as the Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company, reporting to directly to the Board, and having such duties and responsibilities commensurate with such position. Executive also agrees to serve as an officer and/or director of any member of the Company Group, in each case without additional compensation, and, without limiting the foregoing, will serve as a member of the Board at all times Executive serves as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer.

 

(b) Performance. Executive shall devote Executive’s full business time, attention, skill, and best efforts to the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement (excluding periods of vacation and sick leave) and shall not engage in any other business or occupation during the Term of Employment, including, without limitation, any activity that (x) conflicts with the interests of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (y) interferes with the proper and efficient performance of Executive’s duties for the Company, or (z) interferes with Executive’s exercise of judgment in the Company’s best interests. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall preclude Executive from (i) serving, with the prior written consent of the Board, as a member of the board of directors or advisory board (or the equivalent in the case of a non-corporate entity) of non-competing for-profit businesses and charitable organizations, (ii) engaging in charitable activities and community affairs, including, continuing to serve as a member of the board of directors of Pepperdine University, and (iii) managing Executive’s personal investments and affairs; provided, however, that the activities set out in clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) shall be limited by Executive so as not to materially interfere, individually or in the aggregate, with the performance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities hereunder.

 

 

 

 

(c) Principal Place of Employment. Executive’s principal place of employment shall be in Murfreesboro, TN, although Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to travel from time to time for business reasons. The Company will permit Executive to work remotely from Executive’s personal residence, although Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to work from, or travel to, the Company’s offices from time to time as needed in connection with the performance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities hereunder.

 

Section 4. Compensation.

 

During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be entitled to the following compensation:

 

(a) Base Salary. Executive shall be paid an annualized Base Salary (the “Base Salary”), payable in accordance with the regular payroll practices of the Company, of $609,000, with increases, if any, as may be approved in writing by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee will review Base Salary for increase not less than annually.

 

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible for an annual incentive bonus award determined by the Compensation Committee in respect of each fiscal year during the Term of Employment (the “Annual Bonus”). The target Annual Bonus for each fiscal year shall be 60% of Base Salary (the “Target Annual Bonus”), with the actual Annual Bonus payable being based upon the level of achievement of annual Company and individual performance objectives for such fiscal year, as determined by the Compensation Committee and communicated to Executive. The Annual Bonus shall otherwise be subject to the terms and conditions of the annual bonus plan adopted by the Board or the Compensation Committee under which bonuses are generally payable to senior executives of the Company, as in effect from time to time. The Annual Bonus shall be paid to Executive at the same time as annual bonuses are generally payable to other senior executives of the Company subject to Executive’s continuous employment through the applicable payment date (subject to Section 7 below).

 

(c) Equity Participation. In connection with Executive’s employment hereunder, Executive shall be entitled to participate in the Company’s equity incentive plan, as in effect from time to time, pursuant to the terms of such plan, an award agreement and such other documents Executive is required to execute pursuant to the terms of such plan (the plan, the award agreement, and such other documents collectively, the “Equity Documents”). Executive’s equity participation shall be exclusively governed by the terms of the Equity Documents.

 

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Section 5. Employee Benefits.

 

During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be entitled to participate in health, insurance, retirement, and other benefits provided generally to senior executives of the Company (subject to any applicable eligibility requirements). Executive shall also be entitled to the same number of holidays, vacation days, and sick days, as well as any other benefits, in each case as are generally allowed to senior executives of the Company in accordance with the Company policy as in effect from time to time (but in no event less than four (4) weeks of paid vacation per calendar year). Nothing contained herein shall be construed to limit the Company’s ability to amend, suspend, or terminate any employee benefit plan or policy at any time, and the right to do so is expressly reserved.

 

Section 6. Reimbursement of Business Expenses.

 

Executive is authorized to incur reasonable business expenses in carrying out Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement, and the Company shall promptly reimburse Executive for all such reasonable business expenses, subject to documentation in accordance with the Company’s policy, as in effect from time to time. In addition, to the extent Executive primarily works remotely from Executive’s personal residence, the Company shall reimburse Executive for reasonable travel expenses incurred by Executive in connection with Executive’s travel to and from the Company’s offices in connection with carrying out Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement subject to documentation in accordance with the Company’s policy, as in effect from time to time. The Company shall be entitled to impute income to Executive in connection with any reimbursements or other benefits provided under this Section 4, and withhold from any and all amounts payable under this Section 4 as may be required to be withheld pursuant to any applicable law or regulation.

 

Section 7. Termination of Employment.

 

(a) General. The Term of Employment, and Executive’s employment hereunder, shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of (i) Executive’s death, (ii) a termination by reason of a Disability, (iii) a termination by the Company with or without Cause, and (iv) a termination by Executive with or without Good Reason. Except as otherwise expressly required by law (e.g., COBRA) or as specifically provided herein, all of Executive’s rights to Base Salary, Annual Bonus, employee benefits and other compensatory amounts hereunder (if any) shall cease upon the termination of Executive’s employment hereunder.

 

(b) Deemed Resignation. Upon any termination of Executive’s employment for any reason, except as may otherwise be requested by the Company in writing and agreed upon in writing by Executive, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from any and all directorships, committee memberships, and any other positions Executive holds with the Company or any other member of the Company Group.

 

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(c) Termination Due to Death or Disability. Executive’s employment shall terminate automatically upon Executive’s death. The Company may terminate Executive’s employment immediately upon the occurrence of a Disability, such termination to be effective upon Executive’s receipt of written notice of such termination. Upon Executive’s death or in the event that Executive’s employment is terminated due to Executive’s Disability, Executive or Executive’s estate or Executive’s beneficiaries, as the case may be, shall be entitled to:

 

(i) The Accrued Obligations;

 

(ii) Any unpaid Annual Bonus in respect of any completed fiscal year that has ended prior to the date of such termination, which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iii) An amount equal to (A) the Target Annual Bonus multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days elapsed from the commencement of the fiscal year in in which such termination occurs through the date of such termination and the denominator of which is 365 (or 366, as applicable), which amount shall be paid within thirty (30) days of Executive’s termination date; and

 

(iv) Subject to an election of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s group health plan by Executive (or Executive’s covered dependents in the case of Executive’s death), on the first regularly scheduled payroll date of each month during the twelve (12)-month period immediately following Executive’s termination occurred, payment of an amount equal to the difference between the monthly COBRA premium cost and the monthly contribution paid by active employees for the same coverage.

 

Following Executive’s death or a termination of Executive’s employment by reason of a Disability, except as set forth in this Section 7(c), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(d) Termination by the Company for Cause.

 

(i) The Company may terminate Executive’s employment at any time for Cause, effective upon delivery to Executive of written notice of such termination; provided, however, that with respect to any Cause termination relying on clause (ii), (vi) or (vii) of the definition of Cause, to the extent that such act or acts or failure or failures to act are curable, Executive shall be given not less than ten (10) business days’ written notice by the Board of the Company’s intention to terminate Executive for Cause, such notice to state in detail the particular act or acts or failure or failures to act that constitute the grounds on which the proposed termination for Cause is based, and such termination shall be effective at the expiration of such ten (10) business day notice period unless Executive has fully cured such act or acts or failure or failures to act that give rise to Cause during such period.

 

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(ii) In the event that the Company terminates Executive’s employment for Cause, Executive shall be entitled only to the Accrued Obligations. Following such termination of Executive’s employment for Cause, except as set forth in this Section 7(d)(ii), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(e) Termination by the Company without Cause. The Company may terminate Executive’s employment at any time without Cause, effective upon delivery to Executive of written notice of such termination. In the event that Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company without Cause (other than due to death or Disability), Executive shall be entitled to:

 

(i) The Accrued Obligations;

 

(ii) Any unpaid Annual Bonus in respect of any completed fiscal year that has ended prior to the date of such termination, which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iii) Subject to satisfaction of the applicable performance objectives applicable for the fiscal year in which such termination occurs, an amount equal to (A) the Annual Bonus otherwise payable to Executive for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred, assuming Executive had remained employed through the applicable payment date, multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days elapsed from the commencement of such fiscal year through the date of such termination and the denominator of which is 365 (or 366, as applicable), which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iv) An amount equal to eighteen (18) months of Base Salary, such amount to be paid in substantially equal payments over the eighteen (18)-month period following Executive’s termination of employment (such period, the “Severance Term”), and payable in accordance with the Company’s regular payroll practices; provided, however, if such termination occurs on or following any Change in Control (as defined in the equity documents), such amount shall instead be payable in a single lump sum within five (5) days of such termination;

 

(v) Subject to Executive’s election of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s group health plan, on the first regularly scheduled payroll date of each month during the Severance Term, payment of an amount equal to the difference between the monthly COBRA premium cost and the monthly contribution paid by active employees for the same coverage; provided, that the payments described in this clause (v) shall cease earlier than the expiration of the Severance Term in the event that Executive becomes eligible to receive any health benefits as a result of subsequent employment or service during the Severance Term; and

 

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(vi) Executive outplacement services (including executive coaching services) with an outplacement firm of Executive’s choice during the Severance Term and up to a maximum cost to the Company of $25,000; provided, that the services described in this clause (vi) shall cease earlier than the expiration of the Severance Term in the event that Executive obtains comparable employment during the Severance Term.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the payments and benefits described in clauses (ii) through (vi) above shall immediately terminate, and the Company shall have no further obligations to Executive with respect thereto, in the event that Executive breaches any provision set forth in Section 9 hereof. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by the Company without Cause, except as set forth in this Section 7(e), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(f) Termination by Executive with Good Reason. Executive may terminate Executive’s employment with Good Reason by providing the Company thirty (30) days’ written notice setting forth in reasonable specificity the event that constitutes Good Reason, which written notice, to be effective, must be provided to the Company within sixty (60) days of the occurrence of such event. During such thirty (30) day notice period, the Company shall have a cure right (if curable), and if not cured within such period, Executive’s termination will be effective upon the expiration of such cure period, and Executive shall be entitled to the same payments and benefits as provided in Section 7(e) hereof for a termination by the Company without Cause, subject to the same conditions on payment and benefits as described in Section 7(e) hereof. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by Executive with Good Reason, except as set forth in this Section 7(f), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(g) Termination by Executive without Good Reason. Executive may terminate Executive’s employment without Good Reason by providing the Company sixty (60) days’ written notice of such termination. In the event of a termination of employment by Executive under this Section 7(g), Executive shall be entitled only to the Accrued Obligations. In the event of termination of Executive’s employment under this Section 7(g), the Company may, in its sole and absolute discretion, by written notice accelerate such date of termination without changing the characterization of such termination as a termination by Executive without Good Reason. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by Executive without Good Reason, except as set forth in this Section 7(g), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(h) Release. Notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, the payment of any amount or provision of any benefit pursuant to subsection (e) or (f) of this Section 7 other than the Accrued Obligations (collectively, the “Severance Benefits”) shall be conditioned upon Executive’s execution, delivery to the Company, and non-revocation of the Release of Claims (and the expiration of any revocation period contained in such Release of Claims) within sixty (60) days following the date of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder (the “Release Execution Period”). If Executive fails to execute the Release of Claims in such a timely manner so as to permit any revocation period to expire prior to the end of such sixty (60) day period, or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of such release following its execution, Executive shall not be entitled to any of the Severance Benefits. No portion of the Severance Benefits (other than Accrued Obligations) shall be paid until the Release of Claims has become effective and all such amounts shall commence to be paid on the first regular payroll date of the Company after the Release of Claims has become effective; provided, that, if the Release Execution Period overlaps two calendar years, the first payment shall not be made sooner than the first day of the second year, and shall include any missed payments.

 

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Section 8. Certain Payments.

 

In the event that (a) Executive is entitled to receive any payment, benefit or distribution of any type to or for the benefit of Executive, whether paid or payable, provided or to be provided, or distributed or distributable, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise (collectively, the “Payments”), and (b) the net after-tax amount of such Payments, after Executive has paid all taxes due thereon (including, without limitation, taxes due under Section 4999 of the Code) is less than the net after-tax amount of all such Payments otherwise due to Executive in the aggregate, if such Payments were reduced to an amount equal to 2.99 times Executive’s “base amount” (as defined in Section 280G(b)(3) of the Code), then the aggregate amount of such Payments payable to Executive shall be reduced to an amount that will equal 2.99 times Executive’s base amount. To the extent such aggregate “parachute payment” (as defined in Section 280G(b)(2) of the Code) amounts are required to be so reduced, the parachute payment amounts due to Executive (but no non-parachute payment amounts) shall be reduced in the following order: (i) the parachute payments that are payable in cash shall be reduced (if necessary, to zero) with amounts that are payable last reduced first; (ii) payments and benefits due in respect of any equity, valued at full value (rather than accelerated value), with the highest values reduced first (as such values are determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.280G-1, Q&A 24); and (iii) all other non-cash benefits not otherwise described in clause (ii) of this Section 8 reduced last.

 

Section 9. Restrictive Covenants

 

(a) General. Executive acknowledges and recognizes the highly competitive nature of the business of the Company Group, that access to Confidential Information renders Executive special and unique within the industry of the Company Group, and that Executive will have the opportunity to develop substantial relationships with existing and prospective clients, accounts, customers, consultants, contractors, investors, and strategic partners of the Company Group during the course of and as a result of Executive’s employment with the Company. In light of the foregoing, as a condition of Executive’s employment by the Company, and in consideration of Executive’s employment hereunder and the compensation and benefits provided herein, Executive acknowledges and agrees to the covenants contained in this Section 9. Executive further recognizes and acknowledges that the restrictions and limitations set forth in this Section 9 are reasonable and valid in geographical and temporal scope and in all other respects and are essential to protect the value of the business and assets of the Company Group.

 

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(b) Confidential Information.

 

(i) Executive acknowledges that, during the Term of Employment, Executive will have access to information about the Company Group and that Executive’s employment with the Company shall bring Executive into close contact with confidential and proprietary information of the Company Group. In recognition of the foregoing, Executive agrees, at all times during the Term of Employment and thereafter, to hold in confidence, and not to use, except for the benefit of the Company Group, or to disclose to any Person without written authorization of the Company, any Confidential Information.

 

(ii) Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or impede Executive from communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any U.S. federal, state or local governmental or law enforcement branch, agency or entity (collectively, a “Governmental Entity”) with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal, state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any such law or regulation, provided that in each case such communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. Executive understands and acknowledges that an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any Federal or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (A) in confidence to a Federal, State, or local government official or to an attorney solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law, or (B) in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Executive understands and acknowledges further that an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Notwithstanding the foregoing, under no circumstance will Executive be authorized to disclose any information covered by attorney-client privilege or attorney work product of any member of the Company Group without prior written consent of Company’s General Counsel or other officer designated by the Company, unless otherwise permitted by the applicable whistleblower provisions of any law or regulation. Executive does not need the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) any member of the Company Group regarding any communication, disclosure, or activity permitted by this subsection.

 

(c) Assignment of Intellectual Property.

 

(i) Executive agrees that Executive will, without additional compensation, promptly make full written disclosure to the Company, and will hold in trust for the sole right and benefit of the Company all developments, original works of authorship, inventions, concepts, know-how, improvements, trade secrets, and similar proprietary rights, whether or not patentable or registrable under copyright or similar laws, which Executive may (or have previously) solely or jointly conceive or develop or reduce to practice, or cause to be conceived or developed or reduced to practice, during the Term of Employment, whether or not during regular working hours, provided they either (i) relate at the time of conception or reduction to practice of the invention to the business of any member of the Company Group, or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development of any member of the Company Group; (ii) result from or relate to any work performed for any member of the Company Group; or (iii) are developed through the use of equipment, supplies, or facilities of any member of the Company Group, or any Confidential Information, or in consultation with personnel of any member of the Company Group (collectively referred to as “Developments”). Executive further acknowledges that all Developments made by Executive (solely or jointly with others) within the scope of and during the Term of Employment are “works made for hire” (to the greatest extent permitted by applicable law) for which Executive is, in part, compensated by Executive’s Base Salary, unless regulated otherwise by law, but that, in the event any such Development is deemed not to be a work made for hire, Executive hereby assigns to the Company, or its designee, all Executive’s right, title, and interest throughout the world in and to any such Development.

 

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(ii) Executive agrees to assist the Company, or its designee, at the Company’s expense, in every way to secure the rights of the Company Group in the Developments and any copyrights, patents, trademarks, service marks, database rights, domain names, mask work rights, moral rights, and other intellectual property rights relating thereto in any and all countries, including the disclosure to the Company of all pertinent information and data with respect thereto, the execution of all applications, specifications, oaths, assignments, recordations, and all other instruments that the Company shall deem necessary in order to apply for, obtain, maintain, and transfer such rights and in order to assign and convey to the Company Group the sole and exclusive right, title, and interest in and to such Developments, and any intellectual property and other proprietary rights relating thereto. Executive further agrees that Executive’s obligation to execute or cause to be executed, when it is in Executive’s power to do so, any such instrument or papers shall continue after the termination of the Term of Employment until the expiration of the last such intellectual property right to expire in any country of the world; provided, however, that the Company shall reimburse Executive for Executive’s reasonable expenses incurred in connection with carrying out the foregoing obligation and, following termination of employment of the Term of Employment, shall compensate Executive for Executive’s time incurred in connection with carrying out Executive’s obligations under this Section 6(c)(ii) following such termination of at an hourly rate based upon Executive’s Base Salary as of immediately prior to Executive’s termination of Employment . If the Company is unable because of Executive’s mental or physical incapacity or unavailability for any other reason to secure Executive’s signature to apply for or to pursue any application for any United States or foreign patents or copyright registrations covering Developments or original works of authorship assigned to the Company as above, then Executive hereby irrevocably designates and appoints the Company and its duly authorized officers and agents as Executive’s agent and attorney in fact to act for and in Executive’s behalf and stead to execute and file any such applications or records and to do all other lawfully permitted acts to further the application for, prosecution, issuance, maintenance, and transfer of letters patent or registrations thereon with the same legal force and effect as if originally executed by me. Executive hereby waives and irrevocably quitclaims to the Company any and all claims, of any nature whatsoever, that Executive now or hereafter have for past, present, or future infringement of any and all proprietary rights assigned to the Company.

 

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(d) Non-Competition. During the Term of Employment and the Post-Termination Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly engage in, have any equity interest in, or manage, provide services to or operate any person, firm, corporation, partnership or business (whether as director, officer, employee, agent, representative, partner, member, security holder, consultant or otherwise) that engages in any business, directly or indirectly (through a subsidiary or otherwise), which competes with the Business within the United States of America or any other jurisdiction in which any member of the Company Group engages in business derives a material portion of its revenues or has demonstrable plans to commence material business activities in.

 

(e) Non-Interference. During the Term of Employment and the Post-Termination Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly for Executive’s own account or for the account of any other Person, engage in Interfering Activities.

 

(f) Return of Documents. In the event of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder for any reason, Executive shall deliver to the Company (and will not keep in Executive’s possession, recreate, or deliver to anyone else) any and all Confidential Information and all other documents, materials, information, and property developed by Executive pursuant to Executive’s employment hereunder or otherwise belonging to the Company Group.

 

(g) Independence; Severability; Blue Pencil. Each of the rights enumerated in this Section 9 shall be independent of the others and shall be in addition to and not in lieu of any other rights and remedies available to the Company Group at law or in equity. If any of the provisions of this Section 9 or any part of any of them is hereafter construed or adjudicated to be invalid or unenforceable, the same shall not affect the remainder of this Section 9, which shall be given full effect without regard to the invalid portions. If any of the covenants contained herein are held to be invalid or unenforceable because of the duration of such provisions or the area or scope covered thereby, each of the Company and Executive agree that the court making such determination shall have the power to reduce the duration, scope, and/or area of such provision to the maximum and/or broadest duration, scope, and/or area permissible by law, and in its reduced form said provision shall then be enforceable.

 

(h) Injunctive Relief. Executive expressly acknowledges that any breach or threatened breach of any of the terms and/or conditions set forth in this Section 9 may result in substantial, continuing, and irreparable injury to the members of the Company Group. Therefore, Executive hereby agrees that, in addition to any other remedy that may be available to the Company, any member of the Company Group shall be entitled to seek injunctive relief, specific performance, or other equitable relief by a court of appropriate jurisdiction in the event of any breach or threatened breach of the terms of this Section 9. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Post-Termination Restricted Period shall be tolled during any period of violation of any of the covenants in this Section 9 and during any other period required for litigation during which the Company or any other member of the Company Group seeks to enforce such covenants against Executive if it is ultimately determined that Executive was in breach of such covenants.

 

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(i) Disclosure of Covenants. As long as it remains in effect, Executive will disclose the existence of the covenants contained in this Section 9 to any prospective employer, partner, co-venturer, investor, or lender prior to entering into an employment, partnership, or other business relationship with such Person or entity.

 

Section 10. Representations and Warranties of Executive.

 

Executive represents and warrants to the Company that:

 

(a) Executive is entering into this Agreement voluntarily and that Executive’s employment hereunder and compliance with the terms and conditions hereof will not conflict with or result in the breach by Executive of any agreement to which Executive is a party or by which Executive may be bound;

 

(b) Executive has not violated, and in connection with Executive’s employment with the Company will not violate, any non-solicitation, non-competition, or other similar covenant or agreement with any Person by which Executive is or may be bound;

 

(c) In connection with Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive will not use any confidential or proprietary information Executive may have obtained in connection with employment or service with any prior service recipient; and

 

(d) Executive has not been terminated from any prior employer or service recipient, or otherwise disciplined in connection any such relationship, in connection with, or as a result of, any claim of workplace sexual harassment or sex or gender discrimination, and to Executive’s knowledge, Executive has not been the subject of any investigation, formal allegation, civil or criminal complaint, charge, or settlement regarding workplace sexual harassment or sex or gender discrimination.

 

-11-

 

 

Section 11. Indemnification.

 

The Company agrees during and after Executive’s employment to indemnify and hold harmless Executive to the fullest extent permitted by the organizational documents of the Company, or if greater, in accordance with applicable law regarding indemnification, for actions or inactions of Executive in accordance with Executive’s performance of his duties under this Agreement, as an officer, director, employee or agent of the Company or any affiliate thereof or as a fiduciary of any benefit plan of any of the foregoing. The Company also agrees to provide Executive with directors’ and officers’ liability insurance coverage both during and after Executive’s employment with regard to matters occurring during employment, or while serving on the governing body of the Company, or any affiliate thereof, which coverage will be at a level at least equal to the greatest level being maintained at such time for any current officer or director and shall continue until such time as suits can no longer be brought against Executive as a matter of law. Executive will be entitled to advancement of expenses from the Company or its applicable subsidiaries in connection with any claim in the same manner and to the same extent to which any other officer or director of the Company is entitled.

 

Section 12. Taxes.

 

The Company may withhold from any payments made under this Agreement or otherwise made in connection with Executive’s employment hereunder, all applicable taxes, including but not limited to income, employment, and social insurance taxes, as shall be required by law. If any such taxes are paid or advanced by the Company on behalf of Executive, Executive shall remain responsible for, and shall repay, such amounts to the Company, promptly following notice thereof by the Company. Executive acknowledges and represents that the Company has not provided any tax advice to Executive in connection with this Agreement and that Executive has been advised by the Company to seek tax advice from Executive’s own tax advisors regarding this Agreement and payments that may be made to Executive pursuant to this Agreement, including specifically, the application of the provisions of Section 409A of the Code to such payments.

 

Section 13. Set Off; Mitigation.

 

The Company’s obligation to pay Executive the amounts provided and to make the arrangements provided hereunder shall not be subject to set-off, counterclaim, or recoupment of amounts owed by Executive to the Company or its affiliates Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided pursuant to this Agreement by seeking other employment or otherwise, and except as provided in Section 1(a)(v) or Section 1(a)(vi) hereof, the amount of any payment provided for pursuant to this Agreement shall not be reduced by any compensation earned as a result of Executive’s other employment or otherwise.

 

Section 14. Additional Section 409A Provisions.

 

Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary:

 

(a) Any payment otherwise required to be made hereunder to Executive at any date as a result of the termination of Executive’s employment shall be delayed for such period of time as may be necessary to meet the requirements of Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code (the “Delay Period”). On the first business day following the expiration of the Delay Period, Executive shall be paid, in a single cash lump sum, an amount equal to the aggregate amount of all payments delayed pursuant to the preceding sentence, and any remaining payments not so delayed shall continue to be paid pursuant to the payment schedule set forth herein.

 

(b) Each payment in a series of payments hereunder shall be deemed to be a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A of the Code.

 

(c) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the payment (or commencement of a series of payments) hereunder of any nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code) upon a termination of employment shall be delayed until such time as Executive has also undergone a “separation from service” as defined in Treas. Reg. 1.409A-1(h), at which time such nonqualified deferred compensation (calculated as of the date of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder) shall be paid (or commence to be paid) to Executive on the schedule set forth in Section 7 as if Executive had undergone such termination of employment (under the same circumstances) on the date of Executive’s ultimate “separation from service.”

 

-12-

 

 

(d) To the extent that any right to reimbursement of expenses or payment of any benefit in-kind under this Agreement constitutes nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code), (i) any such expense reimbursement shall be made by the Company no later than the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which such expense was incurred by Executive, (ii) the right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits shall not be subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit, and (iii) the amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits provided during any taxable year shall not affect the expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits to be provided in any other taxable year; provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not be violated with regard to expenses reimbursed under any arrangement covered by Section 105(b) of the Code solely because such expenses are subject to a limit related to the period the arrangement is in effect.

 

(e) While the payments and benefits provided hereunder are intended to be structured in a manner to avoid the implication of any penalty taxes under Section 409A of the Code, and shall be interpreted in accordance therewith, in no event whatsoever shall any member of the Company Group be liable for any additional tax, interest, or penalties that may be imposed on Executive as a result of Section 409A of the Code or any damages for failing to comply with Section 409A of the Code (other than for withholding obligations or other obligations applicable to employers, if any, under Section 409A of the Code).

 

Section 15. Successors and Assigns; No Third-Party Beneficiaries.

 

(a) The Company. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of the Company and its respective successors and assigns. Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, obligations, or interests arising hereunder may be assigned by the Company to a Person (other than another member of the Company Group, or its or their respective successors) without Executive’s prior written consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed, or conditioned); provided, however, that in the event of a sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company or any direct or indirect division or subsidiary thereof to which Executive’s employment primarily relates, the Company may provide that this Agreement will be assigned to, and assumed by, the acquiror of such assets, division or subsidiary, as applicable, without Executive’s consent.

 

(b) Executive. Executive’s rights and obligations under this Agreement shall not be transferable by Executive by assignment or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the Company; provided, however, that if Executive shall die, all amounts then payable to Executive hereunder shall be paid in accordance with the terms of this Agreement to Executive’s devisee, legatee, or other designee, or if there be no such designee, to Executive’s estate.

 

(c) No Third-Party Beneficiaries. Except as otherwise set forth in Section 7(c) or Section 15(b) hereof, nothing expressed or referred to in this Agreement will be construed to give any Person other than the Company, the other members of the Company Group, and Executive any legal or equitable right, remedy, or claim under or with respect to this Agreement or any provision of this Agreement.

 

-13-

 

 

Section 16. Waiver and Amendments.

 

Any waiver, alteration, amendment, or modification of any of the terms of this Agreement shall be valid only if made in writing and signed by each of the parties hereto; provided, however, that any such waiver, alteration, amendment, or modification must be consented to on the Company’s behalf by the Board. No waiver by either of the parties hereto of their rights hereunder shall be deemed to constitute a waiver with respect to any subsequent occurrences or transactions hereunder unless such waiver specifically states that it is to be construed as a continuing waiver.

 

Section 17. Severability.

 

If any covenants or such other provisions of this Agreement are found to be invalid or unenforceable by a final determination of a court of competent jurisdiction, (a) the remaining terms and provisions hereof shall be unimpaired, and (b) the invalid or unenforceable term or provision hereof shall be deemed replaced by a term or provision that is valid and enforceable and that comes closest to expressing the intention of the invalid or unenforceable term or provision hereof.

 

Section 18. Governing Law; Waiver of Jury Trial; Arbitration.

 

THIS AGREEMENT IS GOVERNED BY AND IS TO BE CONSTRUED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT ALSO HEREBY WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUIT, ACTION, OR PROCEEDING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT. Except as permitted under Section 9 hereof, any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement (or the breach thereof) shall be settled by final, binding and non-appealable arbitration in Chicago, Illinois by three arbitrators. The arbitration shall be conducted by JAMS pursuant to its Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures and subject to JAMS Policy on Employment Arbitration in accordance with its Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures then in effect. Judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators shall have the authority to award any remedy or relief that a court of competent jurisdiction could order or grant, including, without limitation, the issuance of an injunction. However, either party may, without inconsistency with this arbitration provision, apply to any court having jurisdiction over such dispute or controversy and seek interim provisional, injunctive or other equitable relief until the arbitration award is rendered or the controversy is otherwise resolved, or permanent injunctive relief. Except as necessary in court proceedings to enforce this arbitration provision or an award rendered hereunder, to obtain interim relief or as otherwise required by law, neither a party nor an arbitrator may disclose the content or results of any arbitration hereunder without the prior written consent of the Company and Executive, other than general statements. The fees charged by JAMS and any arbitrator shall be split equally between the parties to the arbitration.

 

-14-

 

 

Section 19. Notices.

 

All notices and other communications required or permitted under this Agreement which are addressed as provided in this Section 19, (A) if delivered personally against proper receipt shall be effective upon delivery and (B) if sent (x) by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid or (y) by Federal Express or similar courier service with courier fees paid by the sender, shall be effective upon receipt. The parties hereto may from time to time change their respective addresses for the purpose of notices to that party by a similar notice specifying a new address, but no such change shall be deemed to have been given unless it is sent and received in accordance with this Section 19.

 

If to the Company:

 

Clarus Therapeutics, Inc.
555 Skokie Blvd.
Suite 340
Northbrook, IL 60062
Attn: Corporate Secretary

 

With copy to:

 

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, LLP
425 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10017
Attn: David E. Rubinsky

 

If to Executive:

 

To the most recent address of Executive set forth in the personnel records of the Company.

 

Section 20. Section Headings.

 

The headings of the sections and subsections of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part thereof or affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement or of any term or provision hereof.

 

Section 21. Entire Agreement.

 

This Agreement, together with any exhibits attached hereto, constitutes the entire understanding and agreement of the parties hereto regarding the employment of Executive. This Agreement supersedes all prior negotiations, discussions, correspondence, communications, understandings, and agreements between the parties relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, including, without limitation, the Prior Agreement.

 

Section 22. Survival of Operative Sections.

 

Upon any termination of Executive’s employment, the provisions of Section 7 through Section 23 of this Agreement (together with any related definitions set forth on Appendix A) shall survive to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions thereof.

 

Section 23. Counterparts.

 

This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. The execution of this Agreement may be by actual or facsimile signature.

 

*       *       *

 

[Signatures to appear on the following page.]

 

-15-

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

 

  CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.
   
  /s/ Steve Bourne
  By: Steve Bourne
  Title: Chief Administrative Officer
     
  EXECUTIVE
   
  /s/ Robert E. Dudley
  Robert E. Dudley, Ph.D.

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX A
Definitions

 

(a) “Accrued Obligations” shall mean (i) all accrued but unpaid Base Salary through the date of termination of Executive’s employment, (ii) any unpaid or unreimbursed expenses incurred in accordance with Section 6 hereof, (iii) an amount equal to Executive’s accrued, but unused vacation days, multiplied by the quotient of Executive’s Annual Salary divided by 2,087 hours) in accordance with the Company’s vacation policies in effect from time to time, and (iv) any benefits provided under the Company’s employee benefit plans upon a termination of employment, including rights with respect to equity participation under the Equity Documents, in accordance with the terms contained therein.

 

(b) “Board” shall mean the Board of Directors of Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

 

(c) “Business” shall mean any business activities related to the Company Group’s research, development, and commercialization efforts in the fields of testosterone therapy in men and women (e.g., certain forms of breast cancer) and ubiquinone deficiency(ies), or any other current or demonstrably planned business activities of the Company Group.

 

(d) “Business Relation” shall mean any current or prospective client, customer, licensee, supplier, or other business relation of the Company Group, or any such relation that was a client, customer, licensee or other business relation within the prior six (6)-month period, in each case, with whom Executive transacted business or whose identity became known to Executive in connection with Executive’s employment hereunder.

 

(e) “Cause” shall mean (i) Executive’s act(s) of gross negligence or willful misconduct in the course of Executive’s employment hereunder, (ii) willful failure or refusal by Executive to perform in any material respect Executive’s duties or responsibilities, (iii) misappropriation (or attempted misappropriation) by Executive of any assets or business opportunities of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (iv) embezzlement or fraud committed (or attempted) by Executive, or at Executive’s direction, (v) Executive’s conviction of, indictment for, or pleading “guilty” or “ no contest” to, (x) a felony or (y) any other criminal charge that has, or could be reasonably expected to have, an adverse impact on the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company or any other member of the Company Group or otherwise result in material injury to the reputation or business of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (vi) any material violation by Executive of the policies of the Company, including but not limited to those relating to sexual harassment or business conduct, and those otherwise set forth in the manuals or statements of policy of the Company, or (vii) Executive’s material breach of this Agreement.

 

(f) “Code” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(g) “Company Group” shall mean Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. together with any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries (including, but not limited to, the Company).

 

 

 

 

(h) “Compensation Committee” shall mean the Compensation Committee of the Board.

 

(i) “Confidential Information” means information that the Company Group has or will develop, acquire, create, compile, discover, or own, that has value in or to the business of the Company Group that is not generally known and that the Company wishes to maintain as confidential. Confidential Information includes, but is not limited to, any and all non-public information that relates to the actual or anticipated business and/or products, research, or development of the Company Group, or to the Company Group’s technical data, trade secrets, or know-how, including, but not limited to, research, plans, or other information regarding the Company Group’s products or services and markets, customer lists, and customers (including, but not limited to, customers of the Company on whom Executive called or with whom Executive may become acquainted during the Term of Employment), software, developments, inventions, processes, formulas, technology, designs, drawings, engineering, hardware configuration information, marketing, finances, and other business information disclosed by the Company either directly or indirectly in writing, orally, or by drawings or inspection of premises, parts, equipment, or other Company Group property. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Confidential Information shall not include any of the foregoing items that have become publicly and widely known through no unauthorized disclosure by Executive or others who were under confidentiality obligations as to the item or items involved.

 

(j) “Disability” shall mean any physical or mental disability or infirmity of Executive that prevents the performance of Executive’s duties for a period of (i) ninety (90) consecutive days or (ii) one hundred eighty (180) non-consecutive days during any twelve (12) month period. Any question as to the existence, extent, or potentiality of Executive’s Disability upon which Executive and the Company cannot agree shall be determined by a qualified, independent physician selected by the Company and approved by Executive (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned). The determination of any such physician shall be final and conclusive for all purposes of this Agreement.

 

(k) “Good Reason” shall mean, without Executive’s consent, (i) a material demotion in Executive’s title, duties, or responsibilities as set forth in Section 3 hereof, (ii) a material reduction in Base Salary set forth in Section 4(a) hereof or Target Annual Bonus opportunity set forth in Section 4(b) hereof (other than pursuant to an across-the-board reduction applicable to all similarly situated executives), or (iii) any other material breach of a provision of this Agreement by the Company (other than a provision that is covered by clause (i) or (ii) above). Executive acknowledges and agrees that Executive’s exclusive remedy in the event of any breach of this Agreement shall be to assert Good Reason pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 7(f) hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Term of Employment, in the event that the Board reasonably believes that Executive may have engaged in conduct that could constitute Cause hereunder, the Board may, in its sole and absolute discretion, suspend Executive from performing Executive’s duties hereunder, and in no event shall any such suspension constitute an event pursuant to which Executive may terminate employment with Good Reason or otherwise constitute a breach hereunder; provided, that no such suspension shall alter the Company’s obligations under this Agreement during such period of suspension.

 

Appendix A-2

 

 

 

(l) “Interfering Activities” shall mean (A) recruiting, encouraging, soliciting, or inducing, or in any manner attempting to recruit, encourage, solicit, or induce, any Person employed by, or providing consulting services to, any member of the Company Group to terminate such Person’s employment or services (or in the case of a consultant, materially reducing such services) with the Company Group, (B) hiring, or engaging any individual who was employed by or providing services to the Company Group within the six (6)-month period prior to the date of such hiring or engagement, or (C) encouraging, soliciting, or inducing, or in any manner attempting to encourage, solicit, or induce, any Business Relation to cease doing business with or reduce the amount of business conducted with the Company Group, or in any way interfering with the relationship between any such Business Relation and the Company Group.

 

(m) “Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust (charitable or non-charitable), unincorporated organization, or other form of business entity.

 

(n) “Post-Termination Restricted Period” shall mean the period commencing on the date of the termination of the Employment Period for any reason and ending eighteen (18) months following such date of termination.

 

(o) “Release of Claims” shall mean the Release of Claims in substantially the same form attached hereto as Exhibit A (as the same may be revised from time to time by the Company upon the advice of counsel).

 

 

Appendix A-3 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

RELEASE OF CLAIMS

 

As used in this Release of Claims (this “Release”), the term “claims” will include all claims, covenants, warranties, promises, undertakings, actions, suits, causes of action, obligations, debts, accounts, attorneys’ fees, judgments, losses, and liabilities, of whatsoever kind or nature, in law, in equity, or otherwise.

 

For and in consideration of the Severance Benefits, and other good and valuable consideration, I, Robert E. Dudley, for and on behalf of myself and my heirs, administrators, executors, and assigns, effective the date on which this release becomes effective pursuant to its terms, do fully and forever release, remise, and discharge each of the Company and each of its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliates (including, but not limited to, Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.), together with their respective officers, directors, partners, shareholders, employees, and agents (collectively, the “Group”) from any and all claims whatsoever up to the date hereof that I had, may have had, or now have against the Group, for or by reason of any matter, cause, or thing whatsoever, including any claim arising out of or attributable to my employment or the termination of my employment with the Company, whether for tort, breach of express or implied employment contract, intentional infliction of emotional distress, wrongful termination, unjust dismissal, defamation, libel, or slander, or under any federal, state, or local law dealing with discrimination based on age, race, sex, national origin, handicap, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. This release of claims includes, but is not limited to, all claims arising under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (“ADEA”), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Family Medical Leave Act, and the Equal Pay Act, each as may be amended from time to time, and all other federal, state, and local laws, the common law, and any other purported restriction on an employer’s right to terminate the employment of employees. The release contained herein is intended to be a general release of any and all claims to the fullest extent permissible by law.

 

I acknowledge and agree that as of the date I execute this Release, I have no knowledge of any facts or circumstances that give rise or could give rise to any claims under any of the laws listed in the preceding paragraph.

 

By executing this Release, I specifically release all claims relating to my employment and its termination under ADEA, a United States federal statute that, among other things, prohibits discrimination on the basis of age in employment and employee benefit plans.

 

Notwithstanding any provision of this Release to the contrary, by executing this Release, I am not releasing (i) any claims relating to my rights under Section 7 of the Employment Agreement, (ii) any claims that cannot be waived by law, or (iii) my right of indemnification as provided by, and in accordance with the terms of, the Company’s by-laws or a Company insurance policy providing such coverage, as any of such may be amended from time to time.

 

I expressly acknowledge and agree that I –

 

Am able to read the language, and understand the meaning and effect, of this Release;

 

Have no physical or mental impairment of any kind that has interfered with my ability to read and understand the meaning of this Release or its terms, and that I am not acting under the influence of any medication, drug, or chemical of any type in entering into this Release;

 

 

 

 

Am specifically agreeing to the terms of the release contained in this Release because the Company has agreed to pay me the Severance Benefits in consideration for my agreement to accept it in full settlement of all possible claims I might have or ever had, and because of my execution of this Release;

 

Acknowledge that, but for my execution of this Release, I would not be entitled to the Severance Benefits;

 

Understand that, by entering into this Release, I do not waive rights or claims under ADEA that may arise after the date I execute this Release;

 

Had or could have [twenty-one (21)][forty-five (45)]1 days from the date of my termination of employment (the “Release Expiration Date”) in which to review and consider this Release, and that if I execute this Release prior to the Release Expiration Date, I have voluntarily and knowingly waived the remainder of the review period;

 

Have not relied upon any representation or statement not set forth in this Release or my Employment Agreement made by the Company or any of its representatives;

 

Was advised to consult with my attorney regarding the terms and effect of this Release; and

 

Have signed this Release knowingly and voluntarily.

 

I represent and warrant that I have not previously filed, and to the maximum extent permitted by law agree that I will not file, a complaint, charge, or lawsuit against any member of the Group regarding any of the claims released herein. If, notwithstanding this representation and warranty, I have filed or file such a complaint, charge, or lawsuit, I agree that I shall cause such complaint, charge, or lawsuit to be dismissed with prejudice and shall pay any and all costs required in obtaining dismissal of such complaint, charge, or lawsuit, including without limitation the attorneys’ fees of any member of the Group against whom I have filed such a complaint, charge, or lawsuit. This paragraph shall not apply, however, to a claim of age discrimination under ADEA or to any non-waivable right to file a charge with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (the “EEOC”); provided, however, that if the EEOC were to pursue any claims relating to my employment with Company, I agree that I shall not be entitled to recover any monetary damages or any other remedies or benefits as a result and that this Release and the Severance Benefits will control as the exclusive remedy and full settlement of all such claims by me.

 

Nothing in this Release shall prohibit or impede me from communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any Governmental Entity with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal, state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any such law or regulation; provided, that in each case such communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. I understand and acknowledge that an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official or to an attorney solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law, or (2) in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. I understand and acknowledge further that an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph or under applicable law, under no circumstance am I authorized to disclose any information covered by the Company’s attorney-client privilege or attorney work product, or the Company’s trade secrets, without the prior written consent of the Company’s General Counsel or other officer designated by the Company. I do not need the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) any member of the Company Group regarding any communication, disclosure, or activity permitted by this paragraph.

 

 

 

 

1 To be selected based on whether applicable termination was “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967).

 

A-2

 

 

I hereby agree to waive any and all claims to re-employment with the Company or any other member of the Company Group (as defined in my Employment Agreement) and affirmatively agree not to seek further employment with the Company or any other member of the Company Group.

 

Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, this Release will not become effective or enforceable prior to the expiration of the period of seven (7) calendar days following the date of its execution by me (the “Revocation Period”), during which time I may revoke my acceptance of this Release by notifying the Company and the Board of Directors of the Company, in writing, delivered to the Company at its principal executive office, marked for the attention of its General Counsel. To be effective, such revocation must be received by the Company no later than 11:59 p.m. on the seventh (7th) calendar day following the execution of this Release. Provided that the Release is executed and I do not revoke it during the Revocation Period, the eighth (8th) day following the date on which this Release is executed shall be its effective date. I acknowledge and agree that if I revoke this Release during the Revocation Period, this Release will be null and void and of no effect, and neither the Company nor any other member of the Company will have any obligations to pay me the Severance Benefits.

 

The provisions of this Release shall be binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators, legal personal representatives, and assigns. If any provision of this Release shall be held by any court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal, void, or unenforceable, such provision shall be of no force or effect. The illegality or unenforceability of such provision, however, shall have no effect upon and shall not impair the enforceability of any other provision of this Release.

 

EXCEPT WHERE PREEMPTED BY FEDERAL LAW, THIS RELEASE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL LAW AND THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, APPLICABLE TO AGREEMENTS MADE AND TO BE PERFORMED IN THAT STATE WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT TO THE PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAWS. I HEREBY WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUIT, ACTION, OR PROCEEDING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS RELEASE.

 

Capitalized terms used, but not defined herein, shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in my Employment Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, with the Company (the “Employment Agreement”).

 

 

 

Robert E. Dudley, Ph.D.
Date:

 

 

A-3

 

Exhibit 10.5

 

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of September 9, 2021 (the “Effective Date”) by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Richard Peterson (“Executive”).

 

WHEREAS, Executive is currently employed by the Company as its Chief Financial Officer; and

 

WHEREAS, Executive is a party to an offer letter with the Company, dated as of February 21, 2021 (the “Prior Agreement”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to continue to employ Executive and to enter into this Agreement embodying the terms of such continued employment, and Executive desires to enter into this Agreement and to accept such employment, subject to the terms and provisions of this Agreement.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants contained herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are mutually acknowledged, the Company and Executive hereby agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions. Capitalized terms not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the meaning set forth on Appendix A, attached hereto.

 

Section 2. Acceptance and Term of Employment.

 

The Company agrees to employ Executive, and Executive agrees to serve the Company, on the terms and conditions set forth herein. Executive’s employment hereunder shall commence on the Effective Date and continue until terminated as provided in Section 7 hereof (the “Term of Employment”).

 

Section 3. Position, Duties, and Responsibilities; Place of Performance.

 

(a) Position, Duties, and Responsibilities. During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be employed and serve as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company, reporting to directly to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer or such other officer of the Company that the Board or the Company’s Chief Executive Officer designates from time to time, and having such duties and responsibilities commensurate with such position. Executive also agrees to serve as an officer and/or director of any member of the Company Group, in each case without additional compensation.

 

(b) Performance. Executive shall devote Executive’s full business time, attention, skill, and best efforts to the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement (excluding periods of vacation and sick leave) and shall not engage in any other business or occupation during the Term of Employment, including, without limitation, any activity that (x) conflicts with the interests of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (y) interferes with the proper and efficient performance of Executive’s duties for the Company, or (z) interferes with Executive’s exercise of judgment in the Company’s best interests. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall preclude Executive from (i) serving, with the prior written consent of the Board, as a member of the board of directors or advisory board (or the equivalent in the case of a non-corporate entity) of non-competing for-profit businesses and charitable organizations, (ii) engaging in charitable activities and community affairs, and (iii) managing Executive’s personal investments and affairs; provided, however, that the activities set out in clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) shall be limited by Executive so as not to materially interfere, individually or in the aggregate, with the performance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities hereunder.

 

 

 

 

(c) Principal Place of Employment. Executive’s principal place of employment shall be in Memphis, TN, although Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to travel from time to time for business reasons. The Company will permit Executive to work remotely from Executive’s personal residence, although Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to work from, or travel to, the Company’s offices from time to time as needed in connection with the performance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities hereunder.

 

Section 4. Compensation.

 

During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be entitled to the following compensation:

 

(a) Base Salary. Executive shall be paid an annualized Base Salary (the “Base Salary”), payable in accordance with the regular payroll practices of the Company, of $445,000, with increases, if any, as may be approved in writing by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee will review Base Salary for increase not less than annually.

 

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible for an annual incentive bonus award determined by the Compensation Committee in respect of each fiscal year during the Term of Employment (the “Annual Bonus”). The target Annual Bonus for each fiscal year shall be 45% of Base Salary (the “Target Annual Bonus”), with the actual Annual Bonus payable being based upon the level of achievement of annual Company and individual performance objectives for such fiscal year, as determined by the Compensation Committee and communicated to Executive. The Annual Bonus shall otherwise be subject to the terms and conditions of the annual bonus plan adopted by the Board or the Compensation Committee under which bonuses are generally payable to senior executives of the Company, as in effect from time to time. The Annual Bonus shall be paid to Executive at the same time as annual bonuses are generally payable to other senior executives of the Company subject to Executive’s continuous employment through the applicable payment date (subject to Section 7 below).

 

(c) Equity Participation. In connection with Executive’s employment hereunder, Executive shall be entitled to participate in the Company’s equity incentive plan, as in effect from time to time, pursuant to the terms of such plan, an award agreement and such other documents Executive is required to execute pursuant to the terms of such plan (the plan, the award agreement, and such other documents collectively, the “Equity Documents”). Executive’s equity participation shall be exclusively governed by the terms of the Equity Documents.

 

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Section 5. Employee Benefits.

 

During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be entitled to participate in health, insurance, retirement, and other benefits provided generally to senior executives of the Company (subject to any applicable eligibility requirements). Executive shall also be entitled to the same number of holidays, vacation days, and sick days, as well as any other benefits, in each case as are generally allowed to senior executives of the Company in accordance with the Company policy as in effect from time to time (but in no event less than four (4) weeks of paid vacation per calendar year). Nothing contained herein shall be construed to limit the Company’s ability to amend, suspend, or terminate any employee benefit plan or policy at any time, and the right to do so is expressly reserved.

 

Section 6. Reimbursement of Business Expenses.

 

Executive is authorized to incur reasonable business expenses in carrying out Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement, and the Company shall promptly reimburse Executive for all such reasonable business expenses, subject to documentation in accordance with the Company’s policy, as in effect from time to time. In addition, to the extent Executive primarily works remotely from Executive’s personal residence, the Company shall reimburse Executive for reasonable travel expenses incurred by Executive in connection with Executive’s travel to and from the Company’s offices in connection with carrying out Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement subject to documentation in accordance with the Company’s policy, as in effect from time to time. The Company shall be entitled to impute income to Executive in connection with any reimbursements or other benefits provided under this Section 4, and withhold from any and all amounts payable under this Section 4 as may be required to be withheld pursuant to any applicable law or regulation.

 

Section 7. Termination of Employment.

 

(a) General. The Term of Employment, and Executive’s employment hereunder, shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of (i) Executive’s death, (ii) a termination by reason of a Disability, (iii) a termination by the Company with or without Cause, and (iv) a termination by Executive with or without Good Reason. Except as otherwise expressly required by law (e.g., COBRA) or as specifically provided herein, all of Executive’s rights to Base Salary, Annual Bonus, employee benefits and other compensatory amounts hereunder (if any) shall cease upon the termination of Executive’s employment hereunder.

 

(b) Deemed Resignation. Upon any termination of Executive’s employment for any reason, except as may otherwise be requested by the Company in writing and agreed upon in writing by Executive, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from any and all directorships, committee memberships, and any other positions Executive holds with the Company or any other member of the Company Group.

 

(c) Termination Due to Death or Disability. Executive’s employment shall terminate automatically upon Executive’s death. The Company may terminate Executive’s employment immediately upon the occurrence of a Disability, such termination to be effective upon Executive’s receipt of written notice of such termination. Upon Executive’s death or in the event that Executive’s employment is terminated due to Executive’s Disability, Executive or Executive’s estate or Executive’s beneficiaries, as the case may be, shall be entitled to:

 

(i) The Accrued Obligations;

 

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(ii) Any unpaid Annual Bonus in respect of any completed fiscal year that has ended prior to the date of such termination, which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iii) An amount equal to (A) the Target Annual Bonus multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days elapsed from the commencement of the fiscal year in in which such termination occurs through the date of such termination and the denominator of which is 365 (or 366, as applicable), which amount shall be paid within thirty (30) days of Executive’s termination date; and

 

(iv) Subject to an election of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s group health plan by Executive (or Executive’s covered dependents in the case of Executive’s death), on the first regularly scheduled payroll date of each month during the twelve (12)-month period immediately following Executive’s termination occurred, payment of an amount equal to the difference between the monthly COBRA premium cost and the monthly contribution paid by active employees for the same coverage.

 

Following Executive’s death or a termination of Executive’s employment by reason of a Disability, except as set forth in this Section 7(c), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(d) Termination by the Company for Cause.

 

(i) The Company may terminate Executive’s employment at any time for Cause, effective upon delivery to Executive of written notice of such termination; provided, however, that with respect to any Cause termination relying on clause (ii), (vi) or (vii) of the definition of Cause, to the extent that such act or acts or failure or failures to act are curable, Executive shall be given not less than ten (10) business days’ written notice by the Board of the Company’s intention to terminate Executive for Cause, such notice to state in detail the particular act or acts or failure or failures to act that constitute the grounds on which the proposed termination for Cause is based, and such termination shall be effective at the expiration of such ten (10) business day notice period unless Executive has fully cured such act or acts or failure or failures to act that give rise to Cause during such period.

 

(ii) In the event that the Company terminates Executive’s employment for Cause, Executive shall be entitled only to the Accrued Obligations. Following such termination of Executive’s employment for Cause, except as set forth in this Section 7(d)(ii), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

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(e) Termination by the Company without Cause. The Company may terminate Executive’s employment at any time without Cause, effective upon delivery to Executive of written notice of such termination. In the event that Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company without Cause (other than due to death or Disability), Executive shall be entitled to:

 

(i) The Accrued Obligations;

 

(ii) Any unpaid Annual Bonus in respect of any completed fiscal year that has ended prior to the date of such termination, which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iii) Subject to satisfaction of the applicable performance objectives applicable for the fiscal year in which such termination occurs, an amount equal to (A) the Annual Bonus otherwise payable to Executive for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred, assuming Executive had remained employed through the applicable payment date, multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days elapsed from the commencement of such fiscal year through the date of such termination and the denominator of which is 365 (or 366, as applicable), which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iv) An amount equal to twelve (12) months of Base Salary, such amount to be paid in substantially equal payments over the twelve (12)-month period following Executive’s termination of employment (such period, the “Severance Term”), and payable in accordance with the Company’s regular payroll practices; provided, however, if such termination occurs on or following any Change in Control (as defined in the equity documents), such amount shall instead be payable in a single lump sum within five (5) days of such termination;

 

(v) Subject to Executive’s election of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s group health plan, on the first regularly scheduled payroll date of each month during the Severance Term, payment of an amount equal to the difference between the monthly COBRA premium cost and the monthly contribution paid by active employees for the same coverage; provided, that the payments described in this clause (v) shall cease earlier than the expiration of the Severance Term in the event that Executive becomes eligible to receive any health benefits as a result of subsequent employment or service during the Severance Term; and

 

(vi) Executive outplacement services (including executive coaching services) with an outplacement firm of Executive’s choice during the Severance Term and up to a maximum cost to the Company of $25,000; provided, that the services described in this clause (vi) shall cease earlier than the expiration of the Severance Term in the event that Executive obtains comparable employment during the Severance Term.

 

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, the payments and benefits described in clauses (ii) through (vi) above shall immediately terminate, and the Company shall have no further obligations to Executive with respect thereto, in the event that Executive breaches any provision set forth in Section 9 hereof. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by the Company without Cause, except as set forth in this Section 7(e), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(f) Termination by Executive with Good Reason. Executive may terminate Executive’s employment with Good Reason by providing the Company thirty (30) days’ written notice setting forth in reasonable specificity the event that constitutes Good Reason, which written notice, to be effective, must be provided to the Company within sixty (60) days of the occurrence of such event. During such thirty (30) day notice period, the Company shall have a cure right (if curable), and if not cured within such period, Executive’s termination will be effective upon the expiration of such cure period, and Executive shall be entitled to the same payments and benefits as provided in Section 7(e) hereof for a termination by the Company without Cause, subject to the same conditions on payment and benefits as described in Section 7(e) hereof. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by Executive with Good Reason, except as set forth in this Section 7(f), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(g) Termination by Executive without Good Reason. Executive may terminate Executive’s employment without Good Reason by providing the Company sixty (60) days’ written notice of such termination. In the event of a termination of employment by Executive under this Section 7(g), Executive shall be entitled only to the Accrued Obligations. In the event of termination of Executive’s employment under this Section 7(g), the Company may, in its sole and absolute discretion, by written notice accelerate such date of termination without changing the characterization of such termination as a termination by Executive without Good Reason. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by Executive without Good Reason, except as set forth in this Section 7(g), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(h) Release. Notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, the payment of any amount or provision of any benefit pursuant to subsection (e) or (f) of this Section 7 other than the Accrued Obligations (collectively, the “Severance Benefits”) shall be conditioned upon Executive’s execution, delivery to the Company, and non-revocation of the Release of Claims (and the expiration of any revocation period contained in such Release of Claims) within sixty (60) days following the date of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder (the “Release Execution Period”). If Executive fails to execute the Release of Claims in such a timely manner so as to permit any revocation period to expire prior to the end of such sixty (60) day period, or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of such release following its execution, Executive shall not be entitled to any of the Severance Benefits. No portion of the Severance Benefits (other than Accrued Obligations) shall be paid until the Release of Claims has become effective and all such amounts shall commence to be paid on the first regular payroll date of the Company after the Release of Claims has become effective; provided, that, if the Release Execution Period overlaps two calendar years, the first payment shall not be made sooner than the first day of the second year, and shall include any missed payments.

 

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Section 8. Certain Payments.

 

In the event that (a) Executive is entitled to receive any payment, benefit or distribution of any type to or for the benefit of Executive, whether paid or payable, provided or to be provided, or distributed or distributable, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise (collectively, the “Payments”), and (b) the net after-tax amount of such Payments, after Executive has paid all taxes due thereon (including, without limitation, taxes due under Section 4999 of the Code) is less than the net after-tax amount of all such Payments otherwise due to Executive in the aggregate, if such Payments were reduced to an amount equal to 2.99 times Executive’s “base amount” (as defined in Section 280G(b)(3) of the Code), then the aggregate amount of such Payments payable to Executive shall be reduced to an amount that will equal 2.99 times Executive’s base amount. To the extent such aggregate “parachute payment” (as defined in Section 280G(b)(2) of the Code) amounts are required to be so reduced, the parachute payment amounts due to Executive (but no non-parachute payment amounts) shall be reduced in the following order: (i) the parachute payments that are payable in cash shall be reduced (if necessary, to zero) with amounts that are payable last reduced first; (ii) payments and benefits due in respect of any equity, valued at full value (rather than accelerated value), with the highest values reduced first (as such values are determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.280G-1, Q&A 24); and (iii) all other non-cash benefits not otherwise described in clause (ii) of this Section 8 reduced last.

 

Section 9. Restrictive Covenants

 

(a) General. Executive acknowledges and recognizes the highly competitive nature of the business of the Company Group, that access to Confidential Information renders Executive special and unique within the industry of the Company Group, and that Executive will have the opportunity to develop substantial relationships with existing and prospective clients, accounts, customers, consultants, contractors, investors, and strategic partners of the Company Group during the course of and as a result of Executive’s employment with the Company. In light of the foregoing, as a condition of Executive’s employment by the Company, and in consideration of Executive’s employment hereunder and the compensation and benefits provided herein, Executive acknowledges and agrees to the covenants contained in this Section 9. Executive further recognizes and acknowledges that the restrictions and limitations set forth in this Section 9 are reasonable and valid in geographical and temporal scope and in all other respects and are essential to protect the value of the business and assets of the Company Group.

 

(b) Confidential Information.

 

(i) Executive acknowledges that, during the Term of Employment, Executive will have access to information about the Company Group and that Executive’s employment with the Company shall bring Executive into close contact with confidential and proprietary information of the Company Group. In recognition of the foregoing, Executive agrees, at all times during the Term of Employment and thereafter, to hold in confidence, and not to use, except for the benefit of the Company Group, or to disclose to any Person without written authorization of the Company, any Confidential Information.

 

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(ii) Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or impede Executive from communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any U.S. federal, state or local governmental or law enforcement branch, agency or entity (collectively, a “Governmental Entity”) with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal, state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any such law or regulation, provided that in each case such communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. Executive understands and acknowledges that an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any Federal or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (A) in confidence to a Federal, State, or local government official or to an attorney solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law, or (B) in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Executive understands and acknowledges further that an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Notwithstanding the foregoing, under no circumstance will Executive be authorized to disclose any information covered by attorney-client privilege or attorney work product of any member of the Company Group without prior written consent of Company’s General Counsel or other officer designated by the Company, unless otherwise permitted by the applicable whistleblower provisions of any law or regulation. Executive does not need the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) any member of the Company Group regarding any communication, disclosure, or activity permitted by this subsection.

 

(c) Assignment of Intellectual Property.

 

(i) Executive agrees that Executive will, without additional compensation, promptly make full written disclosure to the Company, and will hold in trust for the sole right and benefit of the Company all developments, original works of authorship, inventions, concepts, know-how, improvements, trade secrets, and similar proprietary rights, whether or not patentable or registrable under copyright or similar laws, which Executive may (or have previously) solely or jointly conceive or develop or reduce to practice, or cause to be conceived or developed or reduced to practice, during the Term of Employment, whether or not during regular working hours, provided they either (i) relate at the time of conception or reduction to practice of the invention to the business of any member of the Company Group, or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development of any member of the Company Group; (ii) result from or relate to any work performed for any member of the Company Group; or (iii) are developed through the use of equipment, supplies, or facilities of any member of the Company Group, or any Confidential Information, or in consultation with personnel of any member of the Company Group (collectively referred to as “Developments”). Executive further acknowledges that all Developments made by Executive (solely or jointly with others) within the scope of and during the Term of Employment are “works made for hire” (to the greatest extent permitted by applicable law) for which Executive is, in part, compensated by Executive’s Base Salary, unless regulated otherwise by law, but that, in the event any such Development is deemed not to be a work made for hire, Executive hereby assigns to the Company, or its designee, all Executive’s right, title, and interest throughout the world in and to any such Development.

 

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(ii) Executive agrees to assist the Company, or its designee, at the Company’s expense, in every way to secure the rights of the Company Group in the Developments and any copyrights, patents, trademarks, service marks, database rights, domain names, mask work rights, moral rights, and other intellectual property rights relating thereto in any and all countries, including the disclosure to the Company of all pertinent information and data with respect thereto, the execution of all applications, specifications, oaths, assignments, recordations, and all other instruments that the Company shall deem necessary in order to apply for, obtain, maintain, and transfer such rights and in order to assign and convey to the Company Group the sole and exclusive right, title, and interest in and to such Developments, and any intellectual property and other proprietary rights relating thereto. Executive further agrees that Executive’s obligation to execute or cause to be executed, when it is in Executive’s power to do so, any such instrument or papers shall continue after the termination of the Term of Employment until the expiration of the last such intellectual property right to expire in any country of the world; provided, however, that the Company shall reimburse Executive for Executive’s reasonable expenses incurred in connection with carrying out the foregoing obligation and, following termination of employment of the Term of Employment, shall compensate Executive for Executive’s time incurred in connection with carrying out Executive’s obligations under this Section 6(c)(ii) following such termination of at an hourly rate based upon Executive’s Base Salary as of immediately prior to Executive’s termination of Employment . If the Company is unable because of Executive’s mental or physical incapacity or unavailability for any other reason to secure Executive’s signature to apply for or to pursue any application for any United States or foreign patents or copyright registrations covering Developments or original works of authorship assigned to the Company as above, then Executive hereby irrevocably designates and appoints the Company and its duly authorized officers and agents as Executive’s agent and attorney in fact to act for and in Executive’s behalf and stead to execute and file any such applications or records and to do all other lawfully permitted acts to further the application for, prosecution, issuance, maintenance, and transfer of letters patent or registrations thereon with the same legal force and effect as if originally executed by me. Executive hereby waives and irrevocably quitclaims to the Company any and all claims, of any nature whatsoever, that Executive now or hereafter have for past, present, or future infringement of any and all proprietary rights assigned to the Company.

 

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(d) Non-Competition. During the Term of Employment and the Post-Termination Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly engage in, have any equity interest in, or manage, provide services to or operate any person, firm, corporation, partnership or business (whether as director, officer, employee, agent, representative, partner, member, security holder, consultant or otherwise) that engages in any business, directly or indirectly (through a subsidiary or otherwise), which competes with the Business within the United States of America or any other jurisdiction in which any member of the Company Group engages in business derives a material portion of its revenues or has demonstrable plans to commence material business activities in.

 

(e) Non-Interference. During the Term of Employment and the Post-Termination Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly for Executive’s own account or for the account of any other Person, engage in Interfering Activities.

 

(f) Return of Documents. In the event of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder for any reason, Executive shall deliver to the Company (and will not keep in Executive’s possession, recreate, or deliver to anyone else) any and all Confidential Information and all other documents, materials, information, and property developed by Executive pursuant to Executive’s employment hereunder or otherwise belonging to the Company Group.

 

(g) Independence; Severability; Blue Pencil. Each of the rights enumerated in this Section 9 shall be independent of the others and shall be in addition to and not in lieu of any other rights and remedies available to the Company Group at law or in equity. If any of the provisions of this Section 9 or any part of any of them is hereafter construed or adjudicated to be invalid or unenforceable, the same shall not affect the remainder of this Section 9, which shall be given full effect without regard to the invalid portions. If any of the covenants contained herein are held to be invalid or unenforceable because of the duration of such provisions or the area or scope covered thereby, each of the Company and Executive agree that the court making such determination shall have the power to reduce the duration, scope, and/or area of such provision to the maximum and/or broadest duration, scope, and/or area permissible by law, and in its reduced form said provision shall then be enforceable.

 

(h) Injunctive Relief. Executive expressly acknowledges that any breach or threatened breach of any of the terms and/or conditions set forth in this Section 9 may result in substantial, continuing, and irreparable injury to the members of the Company Group. Therefore, Executive hereby agrees that, in addition to any other remedy that may be available to the Company, any member of the Company Group shall be entitled to seek injunctive relief, specific performance, or other equitable relief by a court of appropriate jurisdiction in the event of any breach or threatened breach of the terms of this Section 9. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Post-Termination Restricted Period shall be tolled during any period of violation of any of the covenants in this Section 9 and during any other period required for litigation during which the Company or any other member of the Company Group seeks to enforce such covenants against Executive if it is ultimately determined that Executive was in breach of such covenants.

 

(i) Disclosure of Covenants. As long as it remains in effect, Executive will disclose the existence of the covenants contained in this Section 9 to any prospective employer, partner, co-venturer, investor, or lender prior to entering into an employment, partnership, or other business relationship with such Person or entity.

 

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Section 10. Representations and Warranties of Executive.

 

Executive represents and warrants to the Company that:

 

(a) Executive is entering into this Agreement voluntarily and that Executive’s employment hereunder and compliance with the terms and conditions hereof will not conflict with or result in the breach by Executive of any agreement to which Executive is a party or by which Executive may be bound;

 

(b) Executive has not violated, and in connection with Executive’s employment with the Company will not violate, any non-solicitation, non-competition, or other similar covenant or agreement with any Person by which Executive is or may be bound;

 

(c) In connection with Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive will not use any confidential or proprietary information Executive may have obtained in connection with employment or service with any prior service recipient; and

 

(d) Executive has not been terminated from any prior employer or service recipient, or otherwise disciplined in connection any such relationship, in connection with, or as a result of, any claim of workplace sexual harassment or sex or gender discrimination, and to Executive’s knowledge, Executive has not been the subject of any investigation, formal allegation, civil or criminal complaint, charge, or settlement regarding workplace sexual harassment or sex or gender discrimination.

 

Section 11. Indemnification.

 

The Company agrees during and after Executive’s employment to indemnify and hold harmless Executive to the fullest extent permitted by the organizational documents of the Company, or if greater, in accordance with applicable law regarding indemnification, for actions or inactions of Executive in accordance with Executive’s performance of his duties under this Agreement, as an officer, director, employee or agent of the Company or any affiliate thereof or as a fiduciary of any benefit plan of any of the foregoing. The Company also agrees to provide Executive with directors’ and officers’ liability insurance coverage both during and after Executive’s employment with regard to matters occurring during employment, or while serving on the governing body of the Company, or any affiliate thereof, which coverage will be at a level at least equal to the greatest level being maintained at such time for any current officer or director and shall continue until such time as suits can no longer be brought against Executive as a matter of law. Executive will be entitled to advancement of expenses from the Company or its applicable subsidiaries in connection with any claim in the same manner and to the same extent to which any other officer or director of the Company is entitled.

 

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Section 12. Taxes.

 

The Company may withhold from any payments made under this Agreement or otherwise made in connection with Executive’s employment hereunder, all applicable taxes, including but not limited to income, employment, and social insurance taxes, as shall be required by law. If any such taxes are paid or advanced by the Company on behalf of Executive, Executive shall remain responsible for, and shall repay, such amounts to the Company, promptly following notice thereof by the Company. Executive acknowledges and represents that the Company has not provided any tax advice to Executive in connection with this Agreement and that Executive has been advised by the Company to seek tax advice from Executive’s own tax advisors regarding this Agreement and payments that may be made to Executive pursuant to this Agreement, including specifically, the application of the provisions of Section 409A of the Code to such payments.

 

Section 13. Set Off; Mitigation.

 

The Company’s obligation to pay Executive the amounts provided and to make the arrangements provided hereunder shall not be subject to set-off, counterclaim, or recoupment of amounts owed by Executive to the Company or its affiliates Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided pursuant to this Agreement by seeking other employment or otherwise, and except as provided in Section 1(a)(v) or Section 1(a)(vi) hereof, the amount of any payment provided for pursuant to this Agreement shall not be reduced by any compensation earned as a result of Executive’s other employment or otherwise.

 

Section 14. Additional Section 409A Provisions.

 

Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary:

 

(a) Any payment otherwise required to be made hereunder to Executive at any date as a result of the termination of Executive’s employment shall be delayed for such period of time as may be necessary to meet the requirements of Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code (the “Delay Period”). On the first business day following the expiration of the Delay Period, Executive shall be paid, in a single cash lump sum, an amount equal to the aggregate amount of all payments delayed pursuant to the preceding sentence, and any remaining payments not so delayed shall continue to be paid pursuant to the payment schedule set forth herein.

 

(b) Each payment in a series of payments hereunder shall be deemed to be a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A of the Code.

 

(c) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the payment (or commencement of a series of payments) hereunder of any nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code) upon a termination of employment shall be delayed until such time as Executive has also undergone a “separation from service” as defined in Treas. Reg. 1.409A-1(h), at which time such nonqualified deferred compensation (calculated as of the date of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder) shall be paid (or commence to be paid) to Executive on the schedule set forth in Section 7 as if Executive had undergone such termination of employment (under the same circumstances) on the date of Executive’s ultimate “separation from service.”

 

(d) To the extent that any right to reimbursement of expenses or payment of any benefit in-kind under this Agreement constitutes nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code), (i) any such expense reimbursement shall be made by the Company no later than the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which such expense was incurred by Executive, (ii) the right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits shall not be subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit, and (iii) the amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits provided during any taxable year shall not affect the expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits to be provided in any other taxable year; provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not be violated with regard to expenses reimbursed under any arrangement covered by Section 105(b) of the Code solely because such expenses are subject to a limit related to the period the arrangement is in effect.

 

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(e) While the payments and benefits provided hereunder are intended to be structured in a manner to avoid the implication of any penalty taxes under Section 409A of the Code, and shall be interpreted in accordance therewith, in no event whatsoever shall any member of the Company Group be liable for any additional tax, interest, or penalties that may be imposed on Executive as a result of Section 409A of the Code or any damages for failing to comply with Section 409A of the Code (other than for withholding obligations or other obligations applicable to employers, if any, under Section 409A of the Code).

 

Section 15. Successors and Assigns; No Third-Party Beneficiaries.

 

(a) The Company. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of the Company and its respective successors and assigns. Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, obligations, or interests arising hereunder may be assigned by the Company to a Person (other than another member of the Company Group, or its or their respective successors) without Executive’s prior written consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed, or conditioned); provided, however, that in the event of a sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company or any direct or indirect division or subsidiary thereof to which Executive’s employment primarily relates, the Company may provide that this Agreement will be assigned to, and assumed by, the acquiror of such assets, division or subsidiary, as applicable, without Executive’s consent.

 

(b) Executive. Executive’s rights and obligations under this Agreement shall not be transferable by Executive by assignment or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the Company; provided, however, that if Executive shall die, all amounts then payable to Executive hereunder shall be paid in accordance with the terms of this Agreement to Executive’s devisee, legatee, or other designee, or if there be no such designee, to Executive’s estate.

 

(c) No Third-Party Beneficiaries. Except as otherwise set forth in Section 7(c) or Section 15(b) hereof, nothing expressed or referred to in this Agreement will be construed to give any Person other than the Company, the other members of the Company Group, and Executive any legal or equitable right, remedy, or claim under or with respect to this Agreement or any provision of this Agreement.

 

-13-

 

 

Section 16. Waiver and Amendments.

 

Any waiver, alteration, amendment, or modification of any of the terms of this Agreement shall be valid only if made in writing and signed by each of the parties hereto; provided, however, that any such waiver, alteration, amendment, or modification must be consented to on the Company’s behalf by the Board. No waiver by either of the parties hereto of their rights hereunder shall be deemed to constitute a waiver with respect to any subsequent occurrences or transactions hereunder unless such waiver specifically states that it is to be construed as a continuing waiver.

 

Section 17. Severability.

 

If any covenants or such other provisions of this Agreement are found to be invalid or unenforceable by a final determination of a court of competent jurisdiction, (a) the remaining terms and provisions hereof shall be unimpaired, and (b) the invalid or unenforceable term or provision hereof shall be deemed replaced by a term or provision that is valid and enforceable and that comes closest to expressing the intention of the invalid or unenforceable term or provision hereof.

 

Section 18. Governing Law; Waiver of Jury Trial; Arbitration.

 

THIS AGREEMENT IS GOVERNED BY AND IS TO BE CONSTRUED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT ALSO HEREBY WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUIT, ACTION, OR PROCEEDING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT. Except as permitted under Section 9 hereof, any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement (or the breach thereof) shall be settled by final, binding and non-appealable arbitration in Chicago, Illinois by three arbitrators. The arbitration shall be conducted by JAMS pursuant to its Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures and subject to JAMS Policy on Employment Arbitration in accordance with its Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures then in effect. Judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators shall have the authority to award any remedy or relief that a court of competent jurisdiction could order or grant, including, without limitation, the issuance of an injunction. However, either party may, without inconsistency with this arbitration provision, apply to any court having jurisdiction over such dispute or controversy and seek interim provisional, injunctive or other equitable relief until the arbitration award is rendered or the controversy is otherwise resolved, or permanent injunctive relief. Except as necessary in court proceedings to enforce this arbitration provision or an award rendered hereunder, to obtain interim relief or as otherwise required by law, neither a party nor an arbitrator may disclose the content or results of any arbitration hereunder without the prior written consent of the Company and Executive, other than general statements. The fees charged by JAMS and any arbitrator shall be split equally between the parties to the arbitration.

 

-14-

 

 

Section 19. Notices.

 

All notices and other communications required or permitted under this Agreement which are addressed as provided in this Section 19, (A) if delivered personally against proper receipt shall be effective upon delivery and (B) if sent (x) by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid or (y) by Federal Express or similar courier service with courier fees paid by the sender, shall be effective upon receipt. The parties hereto may from time to time change their respective addresses for the purpose of notices to that party by a similar notice specifying a new address, but no such change shall be deemed to have been given unless it is sent and received in accordance with this Section 19.

 

If to the Company:

 

Clarus Therapeutics, Inc.
555 Skokie Blvd.
Suite 340
Northbrook, IL 60062
Attn: Corporate Secretary

 

With copy to:

 

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, LLP
425 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10017
Attn: David E. Rubinsky

 

If to Executive:

 

To the most recent address of Executive set forth in the personnel records of the Company.

 

Section 20. Section Headings.

 

The headings of the sections and subsections of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part thereof or affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement or of any term or provision hereof.

 

Section 21. Entire Agreement.

 

This Agreement, together with any exhibits attached hereto, constitutes the entire understanding and agreement of the parties hereto regarding the employment of Executive. This Agreement supersedes all prior negotiations, discussions, correspondence, communications, understandings, and agreements between the parties relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, including, without limitation, the Prior Agreement.

 

Section 22. Survival of Operative Sections.

 

Upon any termination of Executive’s employment, the provisions of Section 7 through Section 23 of this Agreement (together with any related definitions set forth on Appendix A) shall survive to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions thereof.

 

Section 23. Counterparts.

 

This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. The execution of this Agreement may be by actual or facsimile signature.

 

*      *       *

 

[Signatures to appear on the following page.]

 

-15-

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

 

  CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.
   
 

/s/ Robert E. Dudley

  By:

Robert E. Dudley, Ph.D.

  Title:

Chief Executive Officer and President

     
  EXECUTIVE
   
  /s/ Richard Peterson
  Richard Peterson

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX A
Definitions

 

(a) “Accrued Obligations” shall mean (i) all accrued but unpaid Base Salary through the date of termination of Executive’s employment, (ii) any unpaid or unreimbursed expenses incurred in accordance with Section 6 hereof, (iii) an amount equal to Executive’s accrued, but unused vacation days, multiplied by the quotient of Executive’s Annual Salary divided by 2,087 hours) in accordance with the Company’s vacation policies in effect from time to time, and (iv) any benefits provided under the Company’s employee benefit plans upon a termination of employment, including rights with respect to equity participation under the Equity Documents, in accordance with the terms contained therein.

 

(b) “Board” shall mean the Board of Directors of Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

 

(c) “Business” shall mean any business activities related to the Company Group’s research, development, and commercialization efforts in the fields of testosterone therapy in men and women (e.g., certain forms of breast cancer) and ubiquinone deficiency(ies), or any other current or demonstrably planned business activities of the Company Group.

 

(d) “Business Relation” shall mean any current or prospective client, customer, licensee, supplier, or other business relation of the Company Group, or any such relation that was a client, customer, licensee or other business relation within the prior six (6)-month period, in each case, with whom Executive transacted business or whose identity became known to Executive in connection with Executive’s employment hereunder.

 

(e) “Cause” shall mean (i) Executive’s act(s) of gross negligence or willful misconduct in the course of Executive’s employment hereunder, (ii) willful failure or refusal by Executive to perform in any material respect Executive’s duties or responsibilities, (iii) misappropriation (or attempted misappropriation) by Executive of any assets or business opportunities of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (iv) embezzlement or fraud committed (or attempted) by Executive, or at Executive’s direction, (v) Executive’s conviction of, indictment for, or pleading “guilty” or “ no contest” to, (x) a felony or (y) any other criminal charge that has, or could be reasonably expected to have, an adverse impact on the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company or any other member of the Company Group or otherwise result in material injury to the reputation or business of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (vi) any material violation by Executive of the policies of the Company, including but not limited to those relating to sexual harassment or business conduct, and those otherwise set forth in the manuals or statements of policy of the Company, or (vii) Executive’s material breach of this Agreement.

 

(f) “Code” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(g) “Company Group” shall mean Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. together with any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries (including, but not limited to, the Company).

 

 

 

 

(h) “Compensation Committee” shall mean the Compensation Committee of the Board.

 

(i) “Confidential Information” means information that the Company Group has or will develop, acquire, create, compile, discover, or own, that has value in or to the business of the Company Group that is not generally known and that the Company wishes to maintain as confidential. Confidential Information includes, but is not limited to, any and all non-public information that relates to the actual or anticipated business and/or products, research, or development of the Company Group, or to the Company Group’s technical data, trade secrets, or know-how, including, but not limited to, research, plans, or other information regarding the Company Group’s products or services and markets, customer lists, and customers (including, but not limited to, customers of the Company on whom Executive called or with whom Executive may become acquainted during the Term of Employment), software, developments, inventions, processes, formulas, technology, designs, drawings, engineering, hardware configuration information, marketing, finances, and other business information disclosed by the Company either directly or indirectly in writing, orally, or by drawings or inspection of premises, parts, equipment, or other Company Group property. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Confidential Information shall not include any of the foregoing items that have become publicly and widely known through no unauthorized disclosure by Executive or others who were under confidentiality obligations as to the item or items involved.

 

(j) “Disability” shall mean any physical or mental disability or infirmity of Executive that prevents the performance of Executive’s duties for a period of (i) ninety (90) consecutive days or (ii) one hundred eighty (180) non-consecutive days during any twelve (12)-month period. Any question as to the existence, extent, or potentiality of Executive’s Disability upon which Executive and the Company cannot agree shall be determined by a qualified, independent physician selected by the Company and approved by Executive (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned). The determination of any such physician shall be final and conclusive for all purposes of this Agreement.

 

(k) “Good Reason” shall mean, without Executive’s consent, (i) a material demotion in Executive’s title, duties, or responsibilities as set forth in Section 3 hereof, (ii) a material reduction in Base Salary set forth in Section 4(a) hereof or Target Annual Bonus opportunity set forth in Section 4(b) hereof (other than pursuant to an across-the-board reduction applicable to all similarly situated executives), or (iii) any other material breach of a provision of this Agreement by the Company (other than a provision that is covered by clause (i) or (ii) above). Executive acknowledges and agrees that Executive’s exclusive remedy in the event of any breach of this Agreement shall be to assert Good Reason pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 7(f) hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Term of Employment, in the event that the Board reasonably believes that Executive may have engaged in conduct that could constitute Cause hereunder, the Board may, in its sole and absolute discretion, suspend Executive from performing Executive’s duties hereunder, and in no event shall any such suspension constitute an event pursuant to which Executive may terminate employment with Good Reason or otherwise constitute a breach hereunder; provided, that no such suspension shall alter the Company’s obligations under this Agreement during such period of suspension.

 

Appendix A-2

 

 

(l) “Interfering Activities” shall mean (A) recruiting, encouraging, soliciting, or inducing, or in any manner attempting to recruit, encourage, solicit, or induce, any Person employed by, or providing consulting services to, any member of the Company Group to terminate such Person’s employment or services (or in the case of a consultant, materially reducing such services) with the Company Group, (B) hiring, or engaging any individual who was employed by or providing services to the Company Group within the six (6) month period prior to the date of such hiring or engagement, or (C) encouraging, soliciting, or inducing, or in any manner attempting to encourage, solicit, or induce, any Business Relation to cease doing business with or reduce the amount of business conducted with the Company Group, or in any way interfering with the relationship between any such Business Relation and the Company Group.

 

(m) “Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust (charitable or non-charitable), unincorporated organization, or other form of business entity.

 

(n) “Post-Termination Restricted Period” shall mean the period commencing on the date of the termination of the Employment Period for any reason and ending twelve (12) months following such date of termination.

 

(o) “Release of Claims” shall mean the Release of Claims in substantially the same form attached hereto as Exhibit A (as the same may be revised from time to time by the Company upon the advice of counsel).

 

Appendix A-3

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

RELEASE OF CLAIMS

 

As used in this Release of Claims (this “Release”), the term “claims” will include all claims, covenants, warranties, promises, undertakings, actions, suits, causes of action, obligations, debts, accounts, attorneys’ fees, judgments, losses, and liabilities, of whatsoever kind or nature, in law, in equity, or otherwise.

 

For and in consideration of the Severance Benefits, and other good and valuable consideration, I, Richard Peterson, for and on behalf of myself and my heirs, administrators, executors, and assigns, effective the date on which this release becomes effective pursuant to its terms, do fully and forever release, remise, and discharge each of the Company and each of its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliates (including, but not limited to, Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.), together with their respective officers, directors, partners, shareholders, employees, and agents (collectively, the “Group”) from any and all claims whatsoever up to the date hereof that I had, may have had, or now have against the Group, for or by reason of any matter, cause, or thing whatsoever, including any claim arising out of or attributable to my employment or the termination of my employment with the Company, whether for tort, breach of express or implied employment contract, intentional infliction of emotional distress, wrongful termination, unjust dismissal, defamation, libel, or slander, or under any federal, state, or local law dealing with discrimination based on age, race, sex, national origin, handicap, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. This release of claims includes, but is not limited to, all claims arising under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (“ADEA”), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Family Medical Leave Act, and the Equal Pay Act, each as may be amended from time to time, and all other federal, state, and local laws, the common law, and any other purported restriction on an employer’s right to terminate the employment of employees. The release contained herein is intended to be a general release of any and all claims to the fullest extent permissible by law.

 

I acknowledge and agree that as of the date I execute this Release, I have no knowledge of any facts or circumstances that give rise or could give rise to any claims under any of the laws listed in the preceding paragraph.

 

By executing this Release, I specifically release all claims relating to my employment and its termination under ADEA, a United States federal statute that, among other things, prohibits discrimination on the basis of age in employment and employee benefit plans.

 

Notwithstanding any provision of this Release to the contrary, by executing this Release, I am not releasing (i) any claims relating to my rights under Section 7 of the Employment Agreement, (ii) any claims that cannot be waived by law, or (iii) my right of indemnification as provided by, and in accordance with the terms of, the Company’s by-laws or a Company insurance policy providing such coverage, as any of such may be amended from time to time.

 

I expressly acknowledge and agree that I –

 

Am able to read the language, and understand the meaning and effect, of this Release;

 

Have no physical or mental impairment of any kind that has interfered with my ability to read and understand the meaning of this Release or its terms, and that I am not acting under the influence of any medication, drug, or chemical of any type in entering into this Release;

 

 

 

 

Am specifically agreeing to the terms of the release contained in this Release because the Company has agreed to pay me the Severance Benefits in consideration for my agreement to accept it in full settlement of all possible claims I might have or ever had, and because of my execution of this Release;

 

Acknowledge that, but for my execution of this Release, I would not be entitled to the Severance Benefits;

 

Understand that, by entering into this Release, I do not waive rights or claims under ADEA that may arise after the date I execute this Release;

 

Had or could have [twenty-one (21)][forty-five (45)]1 days from the date of my termination of employment (the “Release Expiration Date”) in which to review and consider this Release, and that if I execute this Release prior to the Release Expiration Date, I have voluntarily and knowingly waived the remainder of the review period;

 

Have not relied upon any representation or statement not set forth in this Release or my Employment Agreement made by the Company or any of its representatives;

 

Was advised to consult with my attorney regarding the terms and effect of this Release; and

 

Have signed this Release knowingly and voluntarily.

 

I represent and warrant that I have not previously filed, and to the maximum extent permitted by law agree that I will not file, a complaint, charge, or lawsuit against any member of the Group regarding any of the claims released herein. If, notwithstanding this representation and warranty, I have filed or file such a complaint, charge, or lawsuit, I agree that I shall cause such complaint, charge, or lawsuit to be dismissed with prejudice and shall pay any and all costs required in obtaining dismissal of such complaint, charge, or lawsuit, including without limitation the attorneys’ fees of any member of the Group against whom I have filed such a complaint, charge, or lawsuit. This paragraph shall not apply, however, to a claim of age discrimination under ADEA or to any non-waivable right to file a charge with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (the “EEOC”); provided, however, that if the EEOC were to pursue any claims relating to my employment with Company, I agree that I shall not be entitled to recover any monetary damages or any other remedies or benefits as a result and that this Release and the Severance Benefits will control as the exclusive remedy and full settlement of all such claims by me.

 

Nothing in this Release shall prohibit or impede me from communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any Governmental Entity with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal, state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any such law or regulation; provided, that in each case such communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. I understand and acknowledge that an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official or to an attorney solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law, or (2) in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. I understand and acknowledge further that an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph or under applicable law, under no circumstance am I authorized to disclose any information covered by the Company’s attorney-client privilege or attorney work product, or the Company’s trade secrets, without the prior written consent of the Company’s General Counsel or other officer designated by the Company. I do not need the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) any member of the Company Group regarding any communication, disclosure, or activity permitted by this paragraph.

 

 

 

 

1 To be selected based on whether applicable termination was “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967).

A-2

 

 

I hereby agree to waive any and all claims to re-employment with the Company or any other member of the Company Group (as defined in my Employment Agreement) and affirmatively agree not to seek further employment with the Company or any other member of the Company Group.

 

Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, this Release will not become effective or enforceable prior to the expiration of the period of seven (7) calendar days following the date of its execution by me (the “Revocation Period”), during which time I may revoke my acceptance of this Release by notifying the Company and the Board of Directors of the Company, in writing, delivered to the Company at its principal executive office, marked for the attention of its General Counsel. To be effective, such revocation must be received by the Company no later than 11:59 p.m. on the seventh (7th) calendar day following the execution of this Release. Provided that the Release is executed and I do not revoke it during the Revocation Period, the eighth (8th) day following the date on which this Release is executed shall be its effective date. I acknowledge and agree that if I revoke this Release during the Revocation Period, this Release will be null and void and of no effect, and neither the Company nor any other member of the Company will have any obligations to pay me the Severance Benefits.

 

The provisions of this Release shall be binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators, legal personal representatives, and assigns. If any provision of this Release shall be held by any court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal, void, or unenforceable, such provision shall be of no force or effect. The illegality or unenforceability of such provision, however, shall have no effect upon and shall not impair the enforceability of any other provision of this Release.

 

EXCEPT WHERE PREEMPTED BY FEDERAL LAW, THIS RELEASE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL LAW AND THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, APPLICABLE TO AGREEMENTS MADE AND TO BE PERFORMED IN THAT STATE WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT TO THE PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAWS. I HEREBY WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUIT, ACTION, OR PROCEEDING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS RELEASE.

 

Capitalized terms used, but not defined herein, shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in my Employment Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, with the Company (the “Employment Agreement”).

 

 

 

Richard Peterson
Date:

 

 

A-3

 

Exhibit 10.6

 

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of September 9, 2021 (the “Effective Date”) by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Steven A. Bourne, CPA (“Executive”).

 

WHEREAS, Executive is currently employed by the Company as its Chief Administrative Officer; and

 

WHEREAS, Executive is a party to an offer letter with the Company, dated as of February 13, 2004 (as amended from time to time) (the “Prior Agreement”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to continue to employ Executive and to enter into this Agreement embodying the terms of such continued employment, and Executive desires to enter into this Agreement and to accept such employment, subject to the terms and provisions of this Agreement.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants contained herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are mutually acknowledged, the Company and Executive hereby agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions. Capitalized terms not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the meaning set forth on Appendix A, attached hereto.

 

Section 2. Acceptance and Term of Employment.

 

The Company agrees to employ Executive, and Executive agrees to serve the Company, on the terms and conditions set forth herein. Executive’s employment hereunder shall commence on the Effective Date and continue until terminated as provided in Section 7 hereof (the “Term of Employment”).

 

Section 3. Position, Duties, and Responsibilities; Place of Performance.

 

(a) Position, Duties, and Responsibilities. During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be employed and serve as the Chief Administrative Officer of the Company, reporting to directly to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer or such other officer of the Company that the Board or the Company’s Chief Executive Officer designates from time to time, and having such duties and responsibilities commensurate with such position. Executive also agrees to serve as an officer and/or director of any member of the Company Group, in each case without additional compensation.

 

(b) Performance. Executive shall devote Executive’s full business time, attention, skill, and best efforts to the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement (excluding periods of vacation and sick leave) and shall not engage in any other business or occupation during the Term of Employment, including, without limitation, any activity that (x) conflicts with the interests of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (y) interferes with the proper and efficient performance of Executive’s duties for the Company, or (z) interferes with Executive’s exercise of judgment in the Company’s best interests. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall preclude Executive from (i) serving, with the prior written consent of the Board, as a member of the board of directors or advisory board (or the equivalent in the case of a non-corporate entity) of non-competing for-profit businesses and charitable organizations, (ii) engaging in charitable activities and community affairs, and (iii) managing Executive’s personal investments and affairs; provided, however, that the activities set out in clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) shall be limited by Executive so as not to materially interfere, individually or in the aggregate, with the performance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities hereunder.

 

 

 

 

(c) Principal Place of Employment. Executive’s principal place of employment shall be in Northbrook, IL, although Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to travel from time to time for business reasons. The Company will permit Executive to work remotely from Executive’s personal residence, although Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to work from, or travel to, the Company’s offices from time to time as needed in connection with the performance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities hereunder.

 

Section 4. Compensation.

 

During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be entitled to the following compensation:

 

(a) Base Salary. Executive shall be paid an annualized Base Salary (the “Base Salary”), payable in accordance with the regular payroll practices of the Company, of $348,000, with increases, if any, as may be approved in writing by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee will review Base Salary for increase not less than annually.

 

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible for an annual incentive bonus award determined by the Compensation Committee in respect of each fiscal year during the Term of Employment (the “Annual Bonus”). The target Annual Bonus for each fiscal year shall be 35% of Base Salary (the “Target Annual Bonus”), with the actual Annual Bonus payable being based upon the level of achievement of annual Company and individual performance objectives for such fiscal year, as determined by the Compensation Committee and communicated to Executive. The Annual Bonus shall otherwise be subject to the terms and conditions of the annual bonus plan adopted by the Board or the Compensation Committee under which bonuses are generally payable to senior executives of the Company, as in effect from time to time. The Annual Bonus shall be paid to Executive at the same time as annual bonuses are generally payable to other senior executives of the Company subject to Executive’s continuous employment through the applicable payment date (subject to Section 7 below).

 

(c) Equity Participation. In connection with Executive’s employment hereunder, Executive shall be entitled to participate in the Company’s equity incentive plan, as in effect from time to time, pursuant to the terms of such plan, an award agreement and such other documents Executive is required to execute pursuant to the terms of such plan (the plan, the award agreement, and such other documents collectively, the “Equity Documents”). Executive’s equity participation shall be exclusively governed by the terms of the Equity Documents.

 

-2-

 

 

Section 5. Employee Benefits.

 

During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be entitled to participate in health, insurance, retirement, and other benefits provided generally to senior executives of the Company (subject to any applicable eligibility requirements). Executive shall also be entitled to the same number of holidays, vacation days, and sick days, as well as any other benefits, in each case as are generally allowed to senior executives of the Company in accordance with the Company policy as in effect from time to time (but in no event less than four (4) weeks of paid vacation per calendar year). Nothing contained herein shall be construed to limit the Company’s ability to amend, suspend, or terminate any employee benefit plan or policy at any time, and the right to do so is expressly reserved.

 

Section 6. Reimbursement of Business Expenses.

 

Executive is authorized to incur reasonable business expenses in carrying out Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement, and the Company shall promptly reimburse Executive for all such reasonable business expenses, subject to documentation in accordance with the Company’s policy, as in effect from time to time. In addition, to the extent Executive primarily works remotely from Executive’s personal residence, the Company shall reimburse Executive for reasonable travel expenses incurred by Executive in connection with Executive’s travel to and from the Company’s offices in connection with carrying out Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement subject to documentation in accordance with the Company’s policy, as in effect from time to time. The Company shall be entitled to impute income to Executive in connection with any reimbursements or other benefits provided under this Section 4, and withhold from any and all amounts payable under this Section 4 as may be required to be withheld pursuant to any applicable law or regulation.

 

Section 7. Termination of Employment.

 

(a) General. The Term of Employment, and Executive’s employment hereunder, shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of (i) Executive’s death, (ii) a termination by reason of a Disability, (iii) a termination by the Company with or without Cause, and (iv) a termination by Executive with or without Good Reason. Except as otherwise expressly required by law (e.g., COBRA) or as specifically provided herein, all of Executive’s rights to Base Salary, Annual Bonus, employee benefits and other compensatory amounts hereunder (if any) shall cease upon the termination of Executive’s employment hereunder.

 

(b) Deemed Resignation. Upon any termination of Executive’s employment for any reason, except as may otherwise be requested by the Company in writing and agreed upon in writing by Executive, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from any and all directorships, committee memberships, and any other positions Executive holds with the Company or any other member of the Company Group.

 

-3-

 

 

(c) Termination Due to Death or Disability. Executive’s employment shall terminate automatically upon Executive’s death. The Company may terminate Executive’s employment immediately upon the occurrence of a Disability, such termination to be effective upon Executive’s receipt of written notice of such termination. Upon Executive’s death or in the event that Executive’s employment is terminated due to Executive’s Disability, Executive or Executive’s estate or Executive’s beneficiaries, as the case may be, shall be entitled to:

 

(i) The Accrued Obligations;

 

(ii) Any unpaid Annual Bonus in respect of any completed fiscal year that has ended prior to the date of such termination, which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iii) An amount equal to (A) the Target Annual Bonus multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days elapsed from the commencement of the fiscal year in in which such termination occurs through the date of such termination and the denominator of which is 365 (or 366, as applicable), which amount shall be paid within thirty (30) days of Executive’s termination date; and

 

(iv) Subject to an election of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s group health plan by Executive (or Executive’s covered dependents in the case of Executive’s death), on the first regularly scheduled payroll date of each month during the twelve (12)-month period immediately following Executive’s termination occurred, payment of an amount equal to the difference between the monthly COBRA premium cost and the monthly contribution paid by active employees for the same coverage.

 

Following Executive’s death or a termination of Executive’s employment by reason of a Disability, except as set forth in this Section 7(c), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(d) Termination by the Company for Cause.

 

(i) The Company may terminate Executive’s employment at any time for Cause, effective upon delivery to Executive of written notice of such termination; provided, however, that with respect to any Cause termination relying on clause (ii), (vi) or (vii) of the definition of Cause, to the extent that such act or acts or failure or failures to act are curable, Executive shall be given not less than ten (10) business days’ written notice by the Board of the Company’s intention to terminate Executive for Cause, such notice to state in detail the particular act or acts or failure or failures to act that constitute the grounds on which the proposed termination for Cause is based, and such termination shall be effective at the expiration of such ten (10) business day notice period unless Executive has fully cured such act or acts or failure or failures to act that give rise to Cause during such period.

 

(ii) In the event that the Company terminates Executive’s employment for Cause, Executive shall be entitled only to the Accrued Obligations. Following such termination of Executive’s employment for Cause, except as set forth in this Section 7(d)(ii), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

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(e) Termination by the Company without Cause. The Company may terminate Executive’s employment at any time without Cause, effective upon delivery to Executive of written notice of such termination. In the event that Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company without Cause (other than due to death or Disability), Executive shall be entitled to:

 

(i) The Accrued Obligations;

 

(ii) Any unpaid Annual Bonus in respect of any completed fiscal year that has ended prior to the date of such termination, which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iii) Subject to satisfaction of the applicable performance objectives applicable for the fiscal year in which such termination occurs, an amount equal to (A) the Annual Bonus otherwise payable to Executive for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred, assuming Executive had remained employed through the applicable payment date, multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days elapsed from the commencement of such fiscal year through the date of such termination and the denominator of which is 365 (or 366, as applicable), which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iv) An amount equal to twelve (12) months of Base Salary, such amount to be paid in substantially equal payments over the twelve (12)-month period following Executive’s termination of employment (such period, the “Severance Term”), and payable in accordance with the Company’s regular payroll practices; provided, however, if such termination occurs on or following any Change in Control (as defined in the equity documents), such amount shall instead be payable in a single lump sum within five (5) days of such termination;

 

(v) Subject to Executive’s election of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s group health plan, on the first regularly scheduled payroll date of each month during the Severance Term, payment of an amount equal to the difference between the monthly COBRA premium cost and the monthly contribution paid by active employees for the same coverage; provided, that the payments described in this clause (v) shall cease earlier than the expiration of the Severance Term in the event that Executive becomes eligible to receive any health benefits as a result of subsequent employment or service during the Severance Term; and

 

(vi) Executive outplacement services (including executive coaching services) with an outplacement firm of Executive’s choice during the Severance Term and up to a maximum cost to the Company of $25,000; provided, that the services described in this clause (vi) shall cease earlier than the expiration of the Severance Term in the event that Executive obtains comparable employment during the Severance Term.

 

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, the payments and benefits described in clauses (ii) through (vi) above shall immediately terminate, and the Company shall have no further obligations to Executive with respect thereto, in the event that Executive breaches any provision set forth in Section 9 hereof. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by the Company without Cause, except as set forth in this Section 7(e), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(f) Termination by Executive with Good Reason. Executive may terminate Executive’s employment with Good Reason by providing the Company thirty (30) days’ written notice setting forth in reasonable specificity the event that constitutes Good Reason, which written notice, to be effective, must be provided to the Company within sixty (60) days of the occurrence of such event. During such thirty (30) day notice period, the Company shall have a cure right (if curable), and if not cured within such period, Executive’s termination will be effective upon the expiration of such cure period, and Executive shall be entitled to the same payments and benefits as provided in Section 7(e) hereof for a termination by the Company without Cause, subject to the same conditions on payment and benefits as described in Section 7(e) hereof. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by Executive with Good Reason, except as set forth in this Section 7(f), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(g) Termination by Executive without Good Reason. Executive may terminate Executive’s employment without Good Reason by providing the Company sixty (60) days’ written notice of such termination. In the event of a termination of employment by Executive under this Section 7(g), Executive shall be entitled only to the Accrued Obligations. In the event of termination of Executive’s employment under this Section 7(g), the Company may, in its sole and absolute discretion, by written notice accelerate such date of termination without changing the characterization of such termination as a termination by Executive without Good Reason. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by Executive without Good Reason, except as set forth in this Section 7(g), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(h) Release. Notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, the payment of any amount or provision of any benefit pursuant to subsection (e) or (f) of this Section 7 other than the Accrued Obligations (collectively, the “Severance Benefits”) shall be conditioned upon Executive’s execution, delivery to the Company, and non-revocation of the Release of Claims (and the expiration of any revocation period contained in such Release of Claims) within sixty (60) days following the date of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder (the “Release Execution Period”). If Executive fails to execute the Release of Claims in such a timely manner so as to permit any revocation period to expire prior to the end of such sixty (60) day period, or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of such release following its execution, Executive shall not be entitled to any of the Severance Benefits. No portion of the Severance Benefits (other than Accrued Obligations) shall be paid until the Release of Claims has become effective and all such amounts shall commence to be paid on the first regular payroll date of the Company after the Release of Claims has become effective; provided, that, if the Release Execution Period overlaps two calendar years, the first payment shall not be made sooner than the first day of the second year, and shall include any missed payments.

 

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Section 8. Certain Payments.

 

In the event that (a) Executive is entitled to receive any payment, benefit or distribution of any type to or for the benefit of Executive, whether paid or payable, provided or to be provided, or distributed or distributable, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise (collectively, the “Payments”), and (b) the net after-tax amount of such Payments, after Executive has paid all taxes due thereon (including, without limitation, taxes due under Section 4999 of the Code) is less than the net after-tax amount of all such Payments otherwise due to Executive in the aggregate, if such Payments were reduced to an amount equal to 2.99 times Executive’s “base amount” (as defined in Section 280G(b)(3) of the Code), then the aggregate amount of such Payments payable to Executive shall be reduced to an amount that will equal 2.99 times Executive’s base amount. To the extent such aggregate “parachute payment” (as defined in Section 280G(b)(2) of the Code) amounts are required to be so reduced, the parachute payment amounts due to Executive (but no non-parachute payment amounts) shall be reduced in the following order: (i) the parachute payments that are payable in cash shall be reduced (if necessary, to zero) with amounts that are payable last reduced first; (ii) payments and benefits due in respect of any equity, valued at full value (rather than accelerated value), with the highest values reduced first (as such values are determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.280G-1, Q&A 24); and (iii) all other non-cash benefits not otherwise described in clause (ii) of this Section 8 reduced last.

 

Section 9. Restrictive Covenants

 

(a) General. Executive acknowledges and recognizes the highly competitive nature of the business of the Company Group, that access to Confidential Information renders Executive special and unique within the industry of the Company Group, and that Executive will have the opportunity to develop substantial relationships with existing and prospective clients, accounts, customers, consultants, contractors, investors, and strategic partners of the Company Group during the course of and as a result of Executive’s employment with the Company. In light of the foregoing, as a condition of Executive’s employment by the Company, and in consideration of Executive’s employment hereunder and the compensation and benefits provided herein, Executive acknowledges and agrees to the covenants contained in this Section 9. Executive further recognizes and acknowledges that the restrictions and limitations set forth in this Section 9 are reasonable and valid in geographical and temporal scope and in all other respects and are essential to protect the value of the business and assets of the Company Group.

 

(b) Confidential Information.

 

(i) Executive acknowledges that, during the Term of Employment, Executive will have access to information about the Company Group and that Executive’s employment with the Company shall bring Executive into close contact with confidential and proprietary information of the Company Group. In recognition of the foregoing, Executive agrees, at all times during the Term of Employment and thereafter, to hold in confidence, and not to use, except for the benefit of the Company Group, or to disclose to any Person without written authorization of the Company, any Confidential Information.

 

(ii) Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or impede Executive from communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any U.S. federal, state or local governmental or law enforcement branch, agency or entity (collectively, a “Governmental Entity”) with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal, state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any such law or regulation, provided that in each case such communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. Executive understands and acknowledges that an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any Federal or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (A) in confidence to a Federal, State, or local government official or to an attorney solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law, or (B) in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Executive understands and acknowledges further that an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Notwithstanding the foregoing, under no circumstance will Executive be authorized to disclose any information covered by attorney-client privilege or attorney work product of any member of the Company Group without prior written consent of Company’s General Counsel or other officer designated by the Company, unless otherwise permitted by the applicable whistleblower provisions of any law or regulation. Executive does not need the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) any member of the Company Group regarding any communication, disclosure, or activity permitted by this subsection.

 

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(c) Assignment of Intellectual Property.

 

(i) Executive agrees that Executive will, without additional compensation, promptly make full written disclosure to the Company, and will hold in trust for the sole right and benefit of the Company all developments, original works of authorship, inventions, concepts, know-how, improvements, trade secrets, and similar proprietary rights, whether or not patentable or registrable under copyright or similar laws, which Executive may (or have previously) solely or jointly conceive or develop or reduce to practice, or cause to be conceived or developed or reduced to practice, during the Term of Employment, whether or not during regular working hours, provided they either (i) relate at the time of conception or reduction to practice of the invention to the business of any member of the Company Group, or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development of any member of the Company Group; (ii) result from or relate to any work performed for any member of the Company Group; or (iii) are developed through the use of equipment, supplies, or facilities of any member of the Company Group, or any Confidential Information, or in consultation with personnel of any member of the Company Group (collectively referred to as “Developments”). Executive further acknowledges that all Developments made by Executive (solely or jointly with others) within the scope of and during the Term of Employment are “works made for hire” (to the greatest extent permitted by applicable law) for which Executive is, in part, compensated by Executive’s Base Salary, unless regulated otherwise by law, but that, in the event any such Development is deemed not to be a work made for hire, Executive hereby assigns to the Company, or its designee, all Executive’s right, title, and interest throughout the world in and to any such Development.

 

(ii) Executive agrees to assist the Company, or its designee, at the Company’s expense, in every way to secure the rights of the Company Group in the Developments and any copyrights, patents, trademarks, service marks, database rights, domain names, mask work rights, moral rights, and other intellectual property rights relating thereto in any and all countries, including the disclosure to the Company of all pertinent information and data with respect thereto, the execution of all applications, specifications, oaths, assignments, recordations, and all other instruments that the Company shall deem necessary in order to apply for, obtain, maintain, and transfer such rights and in order to assign and convey to the Company Group the sole and exclusive right, title, and interest in and to such Developments, and any intellectual property and other proprietary rights relating thereto. Executive further agrees that Executive’s obligation to execute or cause to be executed, when it is in Executive’s power to do so, any such instrument or papers shall continue after the termination of the Term of Employment until the expiration of the last such intellectual property right to expire in any country of the world; provided, however, that the Company shall reimburse Executive for Executive’s reasonable expenses incurred in connection with carrying out the foregoing obligation and, following termination of employment of the Term of Employment, shall compensate Executive for Executive’s time incurred in connection with carrying out Executive’s obligations under this Section 6(c)(ii) following such termination of at an hourly rate based upon Executive’s Base Salary as of immediately prior to Executive’s termination of Employment . If the Company is unable because of Executive’s mental or physical incapacity or unavailability for any other reason to secure Executive’s signature to apply for or to pursue any application for any United States or foreign patents or copyright registrations covering Developments or original works of authorship assigned to the Company as above, then Executive hereby irrevocably designates and appoints the Company and its duly authorized officers and agents as Executive’s agent and attorney in fact to act for and in Executive’s behalf and stead to execute and file any such applications or records and to do all other lawfully permitted acts to further the application for, prosecution, issuance, maintenance, and transfer of letters patent or registrations thereon with the same legal force and effect as if originally executed by me. Executive hereby waives and irrevocably quitclaims to the Company any and all claims, of any nature whatsoever, that Executive now or hereafter have for past, present, or future infringement of any and all proprietary rights assigned to the Company.

 

(d) Non-Competition. During the Term of Employment and the Post-Termination Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly engage in, have any equity interest in, or manage, provide services to or operate any person, firm, corporation, partnership or business (whether as director, officer, employee, agent, representative, partner, member, security holder, consultant or otherwise) that engages in any business, directly or indirectly (through a subsidiary or otherwise), which competes with the Business within the United States of America or any other jurisdiction in which any member of the Company Group engages in business derives a material portion of its revenues or has demonstrable plans to commence material business activities in.

 

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(e) Non-Interference. During the Term of Employment and the Post-Termination Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly for Executive’s own account or for the account of any other Person, engage in Interfering Activities.

 

(f) Return of Documents. In the event of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder for any reason, Executive shall deliver to the Company (and will not keep in Executive’s possession, recreate, or deliver to anyone else) any and all Confidential Information and all other documents, materials, information, and property developed by Executive pursuant to Executive’s employment hereunder or otherwise belonging to the Company Group.

 

(g) Independence; Severability; Blue Pencil. Each of the rights enumerated in this Section 9 shall be independent of the others and shall be in addition to and not in lieu of any other rights and remedies available to the Company Group at law or in equity. If any of the provisions of this Section 9 or any part of any of them is hereafter construed or adjudicated to be invalid or unenforceable, the same shall not affect the remainder of this Section 9, which shall be given full effect without regard to the invalid portions. If any of the covenants contained herein are held to be invalid or unenforceable because of the duration of such provisions or the area or scope covered thereby, each of the Company and Executive agree that the court making such determination shall have the power to reduce the duration, scope, and/or area of such provision to the maximum and/or broadest duration, scope, and/or area permissible by law, and in its reduced form said provision shall then be enforceable.

 

(h) Injunctive Relief. Executive expressly acknowledges that any breach or threatened breach of any of the terms and/or conditions set forth in this Section 9 may result in substantial, continuing, and irreparable injury to the members of the Company Group. Therefore, Executive hereby agrees that, in addition to any other remedy that may be available to the Company, any member of the Company Group shall be entitled to seek injunctive relief, specific performance, or other equitable relief by a court of appropriate jurisdiction in the event of any breach or threatened breach of the terms of this Section 9. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Post-Termination Restricted Period shall be tolled during any period of violation of any of the covenants in this Section 9 and during any other period required for litigation during which the Company or any other member of the Company Group seeks to enforce such covenants against Executive if it is ultimately determined that Executive was in breach of such covenants.

 

(i) Disclosure of Covenants. As long as it remains in effect, Executive will disclose the existence of the covenants contained in this Section 9 to any prospective employer, partner, co-venturer, investor, or lender prior to entering into an employment, partnership, or other business relationship with such Person or entity.

 

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Section 10. Representations and Warranties of Executive.

 

Executive represents and warrants to the Company that:

 

(a) Executive is entering into this Agreement voluntarily and that Executive’s employment hereunder and compliance with the terms and conditions hereof will not conflict with or result in the breach by Executive of any agreement to which Executive is a party or by which Executive may be bound;

 

(b) Executive has not violated, and in connection with Executive’s employment with the Company will not violate, any non-solicitation, non-competition, or other similar covenant or agreement with any Person by which Executive is or may be bound;

 

(c) In connection with Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive will not use any confidential or proprietary information Executive may have obtained in connection with employment or service with any prior service recipient; and

 

(d) Executive has not been terminated from any prior employer or service recipient, or otherwise disciplined in connection any such relationship, in connection with, or as a result of, any claim of workplace sexual harassment or sex or gender discrimination, and to Executive’s knowledge, Executive has not been the subject of any investigation, formal allegation, civil or criminal complaint, charge, or settlement regarding workplace sexual harassment or sex or gender discrimination.

 

Section 11. Indemnification.

 

The Company agrees during and after Executive’s employment to indemnify and hold harmless Executive to the fullest extent permitted by the organizational documents of the Company, or if greater, in accordance with applicable law regarding indemnification, for actions or inactions of Executive in accordance with Executive’s performance of his duties under this Agreement, as an officer, director, employee or agent of the Company or any affiliate thereof or as a fiduciary of any benefit plan of any of the foregoing. The Company also agrees to provide Executive with directors’ and officers’ liability insurance coverage both during and after Executive’s employment with regard to matters occurring during employment, or while serving on the governing body of the Company, or any affiliate thereof, which coverage will be at a level at least equal to the greatest level being maintained at such time for any current officer or director and shall continue until such time as suits can no longer be brought against Executive as a matter of law. Executive will be entitled to advancement of expenses from the Company or its applicable subsidiaries in connection with any claim in the same manner and to the same extent to which any other officer or director of the Company is entitled.

 

Section 12. Taxes.

 

The Company may withhold from any payments made under this Agreement or otherwise made in connection with Executive’s employment hereunder, all applicable taxes, including but not limited to income, employment, and social insurance taxes, as shall be required by law. If any such taxes are paid or advanced by the Company on behalf of Executive, Executive shall remain responsible for, and shall repay, such amounts to the Company, promptly following notice thereof by the Company. Executive acknowledges and represents that the Company has not provided any tax advice to Executive in connection with this Agreement and that Executive has been advised by the Company to seek tax advice from Executive’s own tax advisors regarding this Agreement and payments that may be made to Executive pursuant to this Agreement, including specifically, the application of the provisions of Section 409A of the Code to such payments.

 

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Section 13. Set Off; Mitigation.

 

The Company’s obligation to pay Executive the amounts provided and to make the arrangements provided hereunder shall not be subject to set-off, counterclaim, or recoupment of amounts owed by Executive to the Company or its affiliates Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided pursuant to this Agreement by seeking other employment or otherwise, and except as provided in Section 1(a)(v) or Section 1(a)(vi) hereof, the amount of any payment provided for pursuant to this Agreement shall not be reduced by any compensation earned as a result of Executive’s other employment or otherwise.

 

Section 14. Additional Section 409A Provisions.

 

Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary:

 

(a) Any payment otherwise required to be made hereunder to Executive at any date as a result of the termination of Executive’s employment shall be delayed for such period of time as may be necessary to meet the requirements of Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code (the “Delay Period”). On the first business day following the expiration of the Delay Period, Executive shall be paid, in a single cash lump sum, an amount equal to the aggregate amount of all payments delayed pursuant to the preceding sentence, and any remaining payments not so delayed shall continue to be paid pursuant to the payment schedule set forth herein.

 

(b) Each payment in a series of payments hereunder shall be deemed to be a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A of the Code.

 

(c) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the payment (or commencement of a series of payments) hereunder of any nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code) upon a termination of employment shall be delayed until such time as Executive has also undergone a “separation from service” as defined in Treas. Reg. 1.409A-1(h), at which time such nonqualified deferred compensation (calculated as of the date of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder) shall be paid (or commence to be paid) to Executive on the schedule set forth in Section 7 as if Executive had undergone such termination of employment (under the same circumstances) on the date of Executive’s ultimate “separation from service.”

 

(d) To the extent that any right to reimbursement of expenses or payment of any benefit in-kind under this Agreement constitutes nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code), (i) any such expense reimbursement shall be made by the Company no later than the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which such expense was incurred by Executive, (ii) the right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits shall not be subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit, and (iii) the amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits provided during any taxable year shall not affect the expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits to be provided in any other taxable year; provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not be violated with regard to expenses reimbursed under any arrangement covered by Section 105(b) of the Code solely because such expenses are subject to a limit related to the period the arrangement is in effect.

 

(e) While the payments and benefits provided hereunder are intended to be structured in a manner to avoid the implication of any penalty taxes under Section 409A of the Code, and shall be interpreted in accordance therewith, in no event whatsoever shall any member of the Company Group be liable for any additional tax, interest, or penalties that may be imposed on Executive as a result of Section 409A of the Code or any damages for failing to comply with Section 409A of the Code (other than for withholding obligations or other obligations applicable to employers, if any, under Section 409A of the Code).

 

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Section 15. Successors and Assigns; No Third-Party Beneficiaries.

 

(a) The Company. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of the Company and its respective successors and assigns. Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, obligations, or interests arising hereunder may be assigned by the Company to a Person (other than another member of the Company Group, or its or their respective successors) without Executive’s prior written consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed, or conditioned); provided, however, that in the event of a sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company or any direct or indirect division or subsidiary thereof to which Executive’s employment primarily relates, the Company may provide that this Agreement will be assigned to, and assumed by, the acquiror of such assets, division or subsidiary, as applicable, without Executive’s consent.

 

(b) Executive. Executive’s rights and obligations under this Agreement shall not be transferable by Executive by assignment or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the Company; provided, however, that if Executive shall die, all amounts then payable to Executive hereunder shall be paid in accordance with the terms of this Agreement to Executive’s devisee, legatee, or other designee, or if there be no such designee, to Executive’s estate.

 

(c) No Third-Party Beneficiaries. Except as otherwise set forth in Section 7(c) or Section 15(b) hereof, nothing expressed or referred to in this Agreement will be construed to give any Person other than the Company, the other members of the Company Group, and Executive any legal or equitable right, remedy, or claim under or with respect to this Agreement or any provision of this Agreement.

 

Section 16. Waiver and Amendments.

 

Any waiver, alteration, amendment, or modification of any of the terms of this Agreement shall be valid only if made in writing and signed by each of the parties hereto; provided, however, that any such waiver, alteration, amendment, or modification must be consented to on the Company’s behalf by the Board. No waiver by either of the parties hereto of their rights hereunder shall be deemed to constitute a waiver with respect to any subsequent occurrences or transactions hereunder unless such waiver specifically states that it is to be construed as a continuing waiver.

 

Section 17. Severability.

 

If any covenants or such other provisions of this Agreement are found to be invalid or unenforceable by a final determination of a court of competent jurisdiction, (a) the remaining terms and provisions hereof shall be unimpaired, and (b) the invalid or unenforceable term or provision hereof shall be deemed replaced by a term or provision that is valid and enforceable and that comes closest to expressing the intention of the invalid or unenforceable term or provision hereof.

 

Section 18. Governing Law; Waiver of Jury Trial; Arbitration.

 

THIS AGREEMENT IS GOVERNED BY AND IS TO BE CONSTRUED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT ALSO HEREBY WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUIT, ACTION, OR PROCEEDING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT. Except as permitted under Section 9 hereof, any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement (or the breach thereof) shall be settled by final, binding and non-appealable arbitration in Chicago, Illinois by three arbitrators. The arbitration shall be conducted by JAMS pursuant to its Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures and subject to JAMS Policy on Employment Arbitration in accordance with its Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures then in effect. Judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators shall have the authority to award any remedy or relief that a court of competent jurisdiction could order or grant, including, without limitation, the issuance of an injunction. However, either party may, without inconsistency with this arbitration provision, apply to any court having jurisdiction over such dispute or controversy and seek interim provisional, injunctive or other equitable relief until the arbitration award is rendered or the controversy is otherwise resolved, or permanent injunctive relief. Except as necessary in court proceedings to enforce this arbitration provision or an award rendered hereunder, to obtain interim relief or as otherwise required by law, neither a party nor an arbitrator may disclose the content or results of any arbitration hereunder without the prior written consent of the Company and Executive, other than general statements. The fees charged by JAMS and any arbitrator shall be split equally between the parties to the arbitration.

 

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Section 19. Notices.

 

All notices and other communications required or permitted under this Agreement which are addressed as provided in this Section 19, (A) if delivered personally against proper receipt shall be effective upon delivery and (B) if sent (x) by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid or (y) by Federal Express or similar courier service with courier fees paid by the sender, shall be effective upon receipt. The parties hereto may from time to time change their respective addresses for the purpose of notices to that party by a similar notice specifying a new address, but no such change shall be deemed to have been given unless it is sent and received in accordance with this Section 19.

 

If to the Company:

 

Clarus Therapeutics, Inc.
555 Skokie Blvd.
Suite 340
Northbrook, IL 60062
Attn: Corporate Secretary

 

With copy to:

 

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, LLP
425 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10017
Attn: David E. Rubinsky

 

If to Executive:

 

To the most recent address of Executive set forth in the personnel records of the Company.

 

Section 20. Section Headings.

 

The headings of the sections and subsections of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part thereof or affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement or of any term or provision hereof.

 

Section 21. Entire Agreement.

 

This Agreement, together with any exhibits attached hereto, constitutes the entire understanding and agreement of the parties hereto regarding the employment of Executive. This Agreement supersedes all prior negotiations, discussions, correspondence, communications, understandings, and agreements between the parties relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, including, without limitation, the Prior Agreement.

 

Section 22. Survival of Operative Sections.

 

Upon any termination of Executive’s employment, the provisions of Section 7 through Section 23 of this Agreement (together with any related definitions set forth on Appendix A) shall survive to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions thereof.

 

Section 23. Counterparts.

 

This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. The execution of this Agreement may be by actual or facsimile signature.

 

*      *       *

 

[Signatures to appear on the following page.]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

 

  CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.
     
  /s/ Robert E. Dudley
  By: Robert E. Dudley, Ph.D.
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and President

 

  EXECUTIVE
   
  /s/ Steven A. Bourne
  Steven A. Bourne, CPA

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX A
Definitions

 

(a) Accrued Obligations” shall mean (i) all accrued but unpaid Base Salary through the date of termination of Executive’s employment, (ii) any unpaid or unreimbursed expenses incurred in accordance with Section 6 hereof, (iii) an amount equal to Executive’s accrued, but unused vacation days, multiplied by the quotient of Executive’s Annual Salary divided by 2,087 hours) in accordance with the Company’s vacation policies in effect from time to time, and (iv) any benefits provided under the Company’s employee benefit plans upon a termination of employment, including rights with respect to equity participation under the Equity Documents, in accordance with the terms contained therein.

 

(b) Board” shall mean the Board of Directors of Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

 

(c) Business” shall mean any business activities related to the Company Group’s research, development, and commercialization efforts in the fields of testosterone therapy in men and women (e.g., certain forms of breast cancer) and ubiquinone deficiency(ies), or any other current or demonstrably planned business activities of the Company Group.

 

(d) Business Relation” shall mean any current or prospective client, customer, licensee, supplier, or other business relation of the Company Group, or any such relation that was a client, customer, licensee or other business relation within the prior six (6)-month period, in each case, with whom Executive transacted business or whose identity became known to Executive in connection with Executive’s employment hereunder.

 

(e) Cause” shall mean (i) Executive’s act(s) of gross negligence or willful misconduct in the course of Executive’s employment hereunder, (ii) willful failure or refusal by Executive to perform in any material respect Executive’s duties or responsibilities, (iii) misappropriation (or attempted misappropriation) by Executive of any assets or business opportunities of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (iv) embezzlement or fraud committed (or attempted) by Executive, or at Executive’s direction, (v) Executive’s conviction of, indictment for, or pleading “guilty” or “ no contest” to, (x) a felony or (y) any other criminal charge that has, or could be reasonably expected to have, an adverse impact on the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company or any other member of the Company Group or otherwise result in material injury to the reputation or business of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (vi) any material violation by Executive of the policies of the Company, including but not limited to those relating to sexual harassment or business conduct, and those otherwise set forth in the manuals or statements of policy of the Company, or (vii) Executive’s material breach of this Agreement.

 

(f) Code” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(g) Company Group” shall mean Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. together with any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries (including, but not limited to, the Company).

 

 

 

 

(h) Compensation Committee” shall mean the Compensation Committee of the Board.

 

(i) Confidential Information” means information that the Company Group has or will develop, acquire, create, compile, discover, or own, that has value in or to the business of the Company Group that is not generally known and that the Company wishes to maintain as confidential. Confidential Information includes, but is not limited to, any and all non-public information that relates to the actual or anticipated business and/or products, research, or development of the Company Group, or to the Company Group’s technical data, trade secrets, or know-how, including, but not limited to, research, plans, or other information regarding the Company Group’s products or services and markets, customer lists, and customers (including, but not limited to, customers of the Company on whom Executive called or with whom Executive may become acquainted during the Term of Employment), software, developments, inventions, processes, formulas, technology, designs, drawings, engineering, hardware configuration information, marketing, finances, and other business information disclosed by the Company either directly or indirectly in writing, orally, or by drawings or inspection of premises, parts, equipment, or other Company Group property. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Confidential Information shall not include any of the foregoing items that have become publicly and widely known through no unauthorized disclosure by Executive or others who were under confidentiality obligations as to the item or items involved.

 

(j) Disability” shall mean any physical or mental disability or infirmity of Executive that prevents the performance of Executive’s duties for a period of (i) ninety (90) consecutive days or (ii) one hundred eighty (180) non-consecutive days during any twelve (12)-month period. Any question as to the existence, extent, or potentiality of Executive’s Disability upon which Executive and the Company cannot agree shall be determined by a qualified, independent physician selected by the Company and approved by Executive (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned). The determination of any such physician shall be final and conclusive for all purposes of this Agreement.

 

(k) Good Reason” shall mean, without Executive’s consent, (i) a material demotion in Executive’s title, duties, or responsibilities as set forth in Section 3 hereof, (ii) a material reduction in Base Salary set forth in Section 4(a) hereof or Target Annual Bonus opportunity set forth in Section 4(b) hereof (other than pursuant to an across-the-board reduction applicable to all similarly situated executives), or (iii) any other material breach of a provision of this Agreement by the Company (other than a provision that is covered by clause (i) or (ii) above). Executive acknowledges and agrees that Executive’s exclusive remedy in the event of any breach of this Agreement shall be to assert Good Reason pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 7(f) hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Term of Employment, in the event that the Board reasonably believes that Executive may have engaged in conduct that could constitute Cause hereunder, the Board may, in its sole and absolute discretion, suspend Executive from performing Executive’s duties hereunder, and in no event shall any such suspension constitute an event pursuant to which Executive may terminate employment with Good Reason or otherwise constitute a breach hereunder; provided, that no such suspension shall alter the Company’s obligations under this Agreement during such period of suspension.

 

Appendix A-2 

 

 

(l) Interfering Activities” shall mean (A) recruiting, encouraging, soliciting, or inducing, or in any manner attempting to recruit, encourage, solicit, or induce, any Person employed by, or providing consulting services to, any member of the Company Group to terminate such Person’s employment or services (or in the case of a consultant, materially reducing such services) with the Company Group, (B) hiring, or engaging any individual who was employed by or providing services to the Company Group within the six (6)-month period prior to the date of such hiring or engagement, or (C) encouraging, soliciting, or inducing, or in any manner attempting to encourage, solicit, or induce, any Business Relation to cease doing business with or reduce the amount of business conducted with the Company Group, or in any way interfering with the relationship between any such Business Relation and the Company Group.

 

(m) Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust (charitable or non-charitable), unincorporated organization, or other form of business entity.

 

(n) Post-Termination Restricted Period” shall mean the period commencing on the date of the termination of the Employment Period for any reason and ending twelve (12) months following such date of termination.

 

(o) Release of Claims” shall mean the Release of Claims in substantially the same form attached hereto as Exhibit A (as the same may be revised from time to time by the Company upon the advice of counsel).

 

Appendix A-3 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

RELEASE OF CLAIMS

 

As used in this Release of Claims (this “Release”), the term “claims” will include all claims, covenants, warranties, promises, undertakings, actions, suits, causes of action, obligations, debts, accounts, attorneys’ fees, judgments, losses, and liabilities, of whatsoever kind or nature, in law, in equity, or otherwise.

 

For and in consideration of the Severance Benefits, and other good and valuable consideration, I, Steven A. Bourne, for and on behalf of myself and my heirs, administrators, executors, and assigns, effective the date on which this release becomes effective pursuant to its terms, do fully and forever release, remise, and discharge each of the Company and each of its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliates (including, but not limited to, Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.), together with their respective officers, directors, partners, shareholders, employees, and agents (collectively, the “Group”) from any and all claims whatsoever up to the date hereof that I had, may have had, or now have against the Group, for or by reason of any matter, cause, or thing whatsoever, including any claim arising out of or attributable to my employment or the termination of my employment with the Company, whether for tort, breach of express or implied employment contract, intentional infliction of emotional distress, wrongful termination, unjust dismissal, defamation, libel, or slander, or under any federal, state, or local law dealing with discrimination based on age, race, sex, national origin, handicap, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. This release of claims includes, but is not limited to, all claims arising under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (“ADEA”), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Family Medical Leave Act, and the Equal Pay Act, each as may be amended from time to time, and all other federal, state, and local laws, the common law, and any other purported restriction on an employer’s right to terminate the employment of employees. The release contained herein is intended to be a general release of any and all claims to the fullest extent permissible by law.

 

I acknowledge and agree that as of the date I execute this Release, I have no knowledge of any facts or circumstances that give rise or could give rise to any claims under any of the laws listed in the preceding paragraph.

 

By executing this Release, I specifically release all claims relating to my employment and its termination under ADEA, a United States federal statute that, among other things, prohibits discrimination on the basis of age in employment and employee benefit plans.

 

Notwithstanding any provision of this Release to the contrary, by executing this Release, I am not releasing (i) any claims relating to my rights under Section 7 of the Employment Agreement, (ii) any claims that cannot be waived by law, or (iii) my right of indemnification as provided by, and in accordance with the terms of, the Company’s by-laws or a Company insurance policy providing such coverage, as any of such may be amended from time to time.

 

I expressly acknowledge and agree that I –

 

Am able to read the language, and understand the meaning and effect, of this Release;

 

Have no physical or mental impairment of any kind that has interfered with my ability to read and understand the meaning of this Release or its terms, and that I am not acting under the influence of any medication, drug, or chemical of any type in entering into this Release;

 

 

 

 

Am specifically agreeing to the terms of the release contained in this Release because the Company has agreed to pay me the Severance Benefits in consideration for my agreement to accept it in full settlement of all possible claims I might have or ever had, and because of my execution of this Release;

 

Acknowledge that, but for my execution of this Release, I would not be entitled to the Severance Benefits;

 

Understand that, by entering into this Release, I do not waive rights or claims under ADEA that may arise after the date I execute this Release;

 

Had or could have [twenty-one (21)][forty-five (45)]1 days from the date of my termination of employment (the “Release Expiration Date”) in which to review and consider this Release, and that if I execute this Release prior to the Release Expiration Date, I have voluntarily and knowingly waived the remainder of the review period;

 

Have not relied upon any representation or statement not set forth in this Release or my Employment Agreement made by the Company or any of its representatives;

 

Was advised to consult with my attorney regarding the terms and effect of this Release; and

 

Have signed this Release knowingly and voluntarily.

 

I represent and warrant that I have not previously filed, and to the maximum extent permitted by law agree that I will not file, a complaint, charge, or lawsuit against any member of the Group regarding any of the claims released herein. If, notwithstanding this representation and warranty, I have filed or file such a complaint, charge, or lawsuit, I agree that I shall cause such complaint, charge, or lawsuit to be dismissed with prejudice and shall pay any and all costs required in obtaining dismissal of such complaint, charge, or lawsuit, including without limitation the attorneys’ fees of any member of the Group against whom I have filed such a complaint, charge, or lawsuit. This paragraph shall not apply, however, to a claim of age discrimination under ADEA or to any non-waivable right to file a charge with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (the “EEOC”); provided, however, that if the EEOC were to pursue any claims relating to my employment with Company, I agree that I shall not be entitled to recover any monetary damages or any other remedies or benefits as a result and that this Release and the Severance Benefits will control as the exclusive remedy and full settlement of all such claims by me.

 

Nothing in this Release shall prohibit or impede me from communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any Governmental Entity with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal, state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any such law or regulation; provided, that in each case such communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. I understand and acknowledge that an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official or to an attorney solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law, or (2) in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. I understand and acknowledge further that an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph or under applicable law, under no circumstance am I authorized to disclose any information covered by the Company’s attorney-client privilege or attorney work product, or the Company’s trade secrets, without the prior written consent of the Company’s General Counsel or other officer designated by the Company. I do not need the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) any member of the Company Group regarding any communication, disclosure, or activity permitted by this paragraph.

 

 

 

 

1 To be selected based on whether applicable termination was “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967).

 

A-2 

 

 

I hereby agree to waive any and all claims to re-employment with the Company or any other member of the Company Group (as defined in my Employment Agreement) and affirmatively agree not to seek further employment with the Company or any other member of the Company Group.

 

Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, this Release will not become effective or enforceable prior to the expiration of the period of seven (7) calendar days following the date of its execution by me (the “Revocation Period”), during which time I may revoke my acceptance of this Release by notifying the Company and the Board of Directors of the Company, in writing, delivered to the Company at its principal executive office, marked for the attention of its General Counsel. To be effective, such revocation must be received by the Company no later than 11:59 p.m. on the seventh (7th) calendar day following the execution of this Release. Provided that the Release is executed and I do not revoke it during the Revocation Period, the eighth (8th) day following the date on which this Release is executed shall be its effective date. I acknowledge and agree that if I revoke this Release during the Revocation Period, this Release will be null and void and of no effect, and neither the Company nor any other member of the Company will have any obligations to pay me the Severance Benefits.

 

The provisions of this Release shall be binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators, legal personal representatives, and assigns. If any provision of this Release shall be held by any court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal, void, or unenforceable, such provision shall be of no force or effect. The illegality or unenforceability of such provision, however, shall have no effect upon and shall not impair the enforceability of any other provision of this Release.

 

EXCEPT WHERE PREEMPTED BY FEDERAL LAW, THIS RELEASE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL LAW AND THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, APPLICABLE TO AGREEMENTS MADE AND TO BE PERFORMED IN THAT STATE WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT TO THE PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAWS. I HEREBY WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUIT, ACTION, OR PROCEEDING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS RELEASE.

 

Capitalized terms used, but not defined herein, shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in my Employment Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, with the Company (the “Employment Agreement”).

 

 

 

 

Steven A. Bourne
Date:

 

 

A-3

 

 

Exhibit 10.7

 

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of September 9, 2021 (the “Effective Date”) by and between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Frank A. Jaeger (“Executive”).

 

WHEREAS, Executive is currently employed by the Company as its Chief Commercial Officer; and

 

WHEREAS, Executive is a party to an offer letter with the Company, dated as of September 5, 2019 (the “Prior Agreement”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to continue to employ Executive and to enter into this Agreement embodying the terms of such continued employment, and Executive desires to enter into this Agreement and to accept such employment, subject to the terms and provisions of this Agreement.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants contained herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are mutually acknowledged, the Company and Executive hereby agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions. Capitalized terms not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the meaning set forth on Appendix A, attached hereto.

 

Section 2. Acceptance and Term of Employment.

 

The Company agrees to employ Executive, and Executive agrees to serve the Company, on the terms and conditions set forth herein. Executive’s employment hereunder shall commence on the Effective Date and continue until terminated as provided in Section 7 hereof (the “Term of Employment”).

 

Section 3. Position, Duties, and Responsibilities; Place of Performance.

 

(a) Position, Duties, and Responsibilities. During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be employed and serve as the Chief Commercial Officer of the Company, reporting to directly to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer or such other officer of the Company that the Board or the Company’s Chief Executive Officer designates from time to time, and having such duties and responsibilities commensurate with such position. Executive also agrees to serve as an officer and/or director of any member of the Company Group, in each case without additional compensation.

 

(b) Performance. Executive shall devote Executive’s full business time, attention, skill, and best efforts to the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement (excluding periods of vacation and sick leave) and shall not engage in any other business or occupation during the Term of Employment, including, without limitation, any activity that (x) conflicts with the interests of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (y) interferes with the proper and efficient performance of Executive’s duties for the Company, or (z) interferes with Executive’s exercise of judgment in the Company’s best interests. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall preclude Executive from (i) serving, with the prior written consent of the Board, as a member of the board of directors or advisory board (or the equivalent in the case of a non-corporate entity) of non-competing for-profit businesses and charitable organizations, (ii) engaging in charitable activities and community affairs, and (iii) managing Executive’s personal investments and affairs; provided, however, that the activities set out in clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) shall be limited by Executive so as not to materially interfere, individually or in the aggregate, with the performance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities hereunder.

 

 

 

 

(c) Principal Place of Employment. Executive’s principal place of employment shall be in Northbrook, IL, although Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to travel from time to time for business reasons. The Company will permit Executive to work remotely from Executive’s personal residence, although Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to work from, or travel to, the Company’s offices from time to time as needed in connection with the performance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities hereunder.

 

Section 4. Compensation.

 

During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be entitled to the following compensation:

 

(a) Base Salary. Executive shall be paid an annualized Base Salary (the “Base Salary”), payable in accordance with the regular payroll practices of the Company, of $400,000, with increases, if any, as may be approved in writing by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee will review Base Salary for increase not less than annually.

 

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible for an annual incentive bonus award determined by the Compensation Committee in respect of each fiscal year during the Term of Employment (the “Annual Bonus”). The target Annual Bonus for each fiscal year shall be 45% of Base Salary (the “Target Annual Bonus”), with the actual Annual Bonus payable being based upon the level of achievement of annual Company and individual performance objectives for such fiscal year, as determined by the Compensation Committee and communicated to Executive. The Annual Bonus shall otherwise be subject to the terms and conditions of the annual bonus plan adopted by the Board or the Compensation Committee under which bonuses are generally payable to senior executives of the Company, as in effect from time to time. The Annual Bonus shall be paid to Executive at the same time as annual bonuses are generally payable to other senior executives of the Company subject to Executive’s continuous employment through the applicable payment date (subject to Section 7 below).

 

(c) Equity Participation. In connection with Executive’s employment hereunder, Executive shall be entitled to participate in the Company’s equity incentive plan, as in effect from time to time, pursuant to the terms of such plan, an award agreement and such other documents Executive is required to execute pursuant to the terms of such plan (the plan, the award agreement, and such other documents collectively, the “Equity Documents”). Executive’s equity participation shall be exclusively governed by the terms of the Equity Documents.

 

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Section 5. Employee Benefits.

 

During the Term of Employment, Executive shall be entitled to participate in health, insurance, retirement, and other benefits provided generally to senior executives of the Company (subject to any applicable eligibility requirements). Executive shall also be entitled to the same number of holidays, vacation days, and sick days, as well as any other benefits, in each case as are generally allowed to senior executives of the Company in accordance with the Company policy as in effect from time to time (but in no event less than four (4) weeks of paid vacation per calendar year). Nothing contained herein shall be construed to limit the Company’s ability to amend, suspend, or terminate any employee benefit plan or policy at any time, and the right to do so is expressly reserved.

 

Section 6. Reimbursement of Business Expenses.

 

Executive is authorized to incur reasonable business expenses in carrying out Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement, and the Company shall promptly reimburse Executive for all such reasonable business expenses, subject to documentation in accordance with the Company’s policy, as in effect from time to time. In addition, to the extent Executive primarily works remotely from Executive’s personal residence, the Company shall reimburse Executive for reasonable travel expenses incurred by Executive in connection with Executive’s travel to and from the Company’s offices in connection with carrying out Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement subject to documentation in accordance with the Company’s policy, as in effect from time to time. The Company shall be entitled to impute income to Executive in connection with any reimbursements or other benefits provided under this Section 4, and withhold from any and all amounts payable under this Section 4 as may be required to be withheld pursuant to any applicable law or regulation.

 

Section 7. Termination of Employment.

 

(a) General. The Term of Employment, and Executive’s employment hereunder, shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of (i) Executive’s death, (ii) a termination by reason of a Disability, (iii) a termination by the Company with or without Cause, and (iv) a termination by Executive with or without Good Reason. Except as otherwise expressly required by law (e.g., COBRA) or as specifically provided herein, all of Executive’s rights to Base Salary, Annual Bonus, employee benefits and other compensatory amounts hereunder (if any) shall cease upon the termination of Executive’s employment hereunder.

 

(b) Deemed Resignation. Upon any termination of Executive’s employment for any reason, except as may otherwise be requested by the Company in writing and agreed upon in writing by Executive, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from any and all directorships, committee memberships, and any other positions Executive holds with the Company or any other member of the Company Group.

 

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(c) Termination Due to Death or Disability. Executive’s employment shall terminate automatically upon Executive’s death. The Company may terminate Executive’s employment immediately upon the occurrence of a Disability, such termination to be effective upon Executive’s receipt of written notice of such termination. Upon Executive’s death or in the event that Executive’s employment is terminated due to Executive’s Disability, Executive or Executive’s estate or Executive’s beneficiaries, as the case may be, shall be entitled to:

 

(i) The Accrued Obligations;

 

(ii) Any unpaid Annual Bonus in respect of any completed fiscal year that has ended prior to the date of such termination, which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iii) An amount equal to (A) the Target Annual Bonus multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days elapsed from the commencement of the fiscal year in in which such termination occurs through the date of such termination and the denominator of which is 365 (or 366, as applicable), which amount shall be paid within thirty (30) days of Executive’s termination date; and

 

(iv) Subject to an election of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s group health plan by Executive (or Executive’s covered dependents in the case of Executive’s death), on the first regularly scheduled payroll date of each month during the twelve (12)-month period immediately following Executive’s termination occurred, payment of an amount equal to the difference between the monthly COBRA premium cost and the monthly contribution paid by active employees for the same coverage.

 

Following Executive’s death or a termination of Executive’s employment by reason of a Disability, except as set forth in this Section 7(c), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(d) Termination by the Company for Cause.

 

(i) The Company may terminate Executive’s employment at any time for Cause, effective upon delivery to Executive of written notice of such termination; provided, however, that with respect to any Cause termination relying on clause (ii), (vi) or (vii) of the definition of Cause, to the extent that such act or acts or failure or failures to act are curable, Executive shall be given not less than ten (10) business days’ written notice by the Board of the Company’s intention to terminate Executive for Cause, such notice to state in detail the particular act or acts or failure or failures to act that constitute the grounds on which the proposed termination for Cause is based, and such termination shall be effective at the expiration of such ten (10) business day notice period unless Executive has fully cured such act or acts or failure or failures to act that give rise to Cause during such period.

 

(ii) In the event that the Company terminates Executive’s employment for Cause, Executive shall be entitled only to the Accrued Obligations. Following such termination of Executive’s employment for Cause, except as set forth in this Section 7(d)(ii), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

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(e) Termination by the Company without Cause. The Company may terminate Executive’s employment at any time without Cause, effective upon delivery to Executive of written notice of such termination. In the event that Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company without Cause (other than due to death or Disability), Executive shall be entitled to:

 

(i) The Accrued Obligations;

 

(ii) Any unpaid Annual Bonus in respect of any completed fiscal year that has ended prior to the date of such termination, which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iii) Subject to satisfaction of the applicable performance objectives applicable for the fiscal year in which such termination occurs, an amount equal to (A) the Annual Bonus otherwise payable to Executive for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred, assuming Executive had remained employed through the applicable payment date, multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days elapsed from the commencement of such fiscal year through the date of such termination and the denominator of which is 365 (or 366, as applicable), which amount shall be paid at such time annual bonuses are paid to other senior executives of the Company, but in no event later than the date that is 2½ months following the last day of the fiscal year in which such termination occurred;

 

(iv) An amount equal to twelve (12) months of Base Salary, such amount to be paid in substantially equal payments over the twelve (12)-month period following Executive’s termination of employment (such period, the “Severance Term”), and payable in accordance with the Company’s regular payroll practices; provided, however, if such termination occurs on or following any Change in Control (as defined in the equity documents), such amount shall instead be payable in a single lump sum within five (5) days of such termination;

 

(v) Subject to Executive’s election of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s group health plan, on the first regularly scheduled payroll date of each month during the Severance Term, payment of an amount equal to the difference between the monthly COBRA premium cost and the monthly contribution paid by active employees for the same coverage; provided, that the payments described in this clause (v) shall cease earlier than the expiration of the Severance Term in the event that Executive becomes eligible to receive any health benefits as a result of subsequent employment or service during the Severance Term; and

 

(vi) Executive outplacement services (including executive coaching services) with an outplacement firm of Executive’s choice during the Severance Term and up to a maximum cost to the Company of $25,000; provided, that the services described in this clause (vi) shall cease earlier than the expiration of the Severance Term in the event that Executive obtains comparable employment during the Severance Term.

 

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, the payments and benefits described in clauses (ii) through (vi) above shall immediately terminate, and the Company shall have no further obligations to Executive with respect thereto, in the event that Executive breaches any provision set forth in Section 9 hereof. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by the Company without Cause, except as set forth in this Section 7(e), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(f) Termination by Executive with Good Reason. Executive may terminate Executive’s employment with Good Reason by providing the Company thirty (30) days’ written notice setting forth in reasonable specificity the event that constitutes Good Reason, which written notice, to be effective, must be provided to the Company within sixty (60) days of the occurrence of such event. During such thirty (30) day notice period, the Company shall have a cure right (if curable), and if not cured within such period, Executive’s termination will be effective upon the expiration of such cure period, and Executive shall be entitled to the same payments and benefits as provided in Section 7(e) hereof for a termination by the Company without Cause, subject to the same conditions on payment and benefits as described in Section 7(e) hereof. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by Executive with Good Reason, except as set forth in this Section 7(f), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(g) Termination by Executive without Good Reason. Executive may terminate Executive’s employment without Good Reason by providing the Company sixty (60) days’ written notice of such termination. In the event of a termination of employment by Executive under this Section 7(g), Executive shall be entitled only to the Accrued Obligations. In the event of termination of Executive’s employment under this Section 7(g), the Company may, in its sole and absolute discretion, by written notice accelerate such date of termination without changing the characterization of such termination as a termination by Executive without Good Reason. Following such termination of Executive’s employment by Executive without Good Reason, except as set forth in this Section 7(g), Executive shall have no further rights to any compensation or any other benefits under this Agreement.

 

(h) Release. Notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, the payment of any amount or provision of any benefit pursuant to subsection (e) or (f) of this Section 7 other than the Accrued Obligations (collectively, the “Severance Benefits”) shall be conditioned upon Executive’s execution, delivery to the Company, and non-revocation of the Release of Claims (and the expiration of any revocation period contained in such Release of Claims) within sixty (60) days following the date of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder (the “Release Execution Period”). If Executive fails to execute the Release of Claims in such a timely manner so as to permit any revocation period to expire prior to the end of such sixty (60) day period, or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of such release following its execution, Executive shall not be entitled to any of the Severance Benefits. No portion of the Severance Benefits (other than Accrued Obligations) shall be paid until the Release of Claims has become effective and all such amounts shall commence to be paid on the first regular payroll date of the Company after the Release of Claims has become effective; provided, that, if the Release Execution Period overlaps two calendar years, the first payment shall not be made sooner than the first day of the second year, and shall include any missed payments.

 

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Section 8. Certain Payments.

 

In the event that (a) Executive is entitled to receive any payment, benefit or distribution of any type to or for the benefit of Executive, whether paid or payable, provided or to be provided, or distributed or distributable, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise (collectively, the “Payments”), and (b) the net after-tax amount of such Payments, after Executive has paid all taxes due thereon (including, without limitation, taxes due under Section 4999 of the Code) is less than the net after-tax amount of all such Payments otherwise due to Executive in the aggregate, if such Payments were reduced to an amount equal to 2.99 times Executive’s “base amount” (as defined in Section 280G(b)(3) of the Code), then the aggregate amount of such Payments payable to Executive shall be reduced to an amount that will equal 2.99 times Executive’s base amount. To the extent such aggregate “parachute payment” (as defined in Section 280G(b)(2) of the Code) amounts are required to be so reduced, the parachute payment amounts due to Executive (but no non-parachute payment amounts) shall be reduced in the following order: (i) the parachute payments that are payable in cash shall be reduced (if necessary, to zero) with amounts that are payable last reduced first; (ii) payments and benefits due in respect of any equity, valued at full value (rather than accelerated value), with the highest values reduced first (as such values are determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.280G-1, Q&A 24); and (iii) all other non-cash benefits not otherwise described in clause (ii) of this Section 8 reduced last.

 

Section 9. Restrictive Covenants

 

(a) General. Executive acknowledges and recognizes the highly competitive nature of the business of the Company Group, that access to Confidential Information renders Executive special and unique within the industry of the Company Group, and that Executive will have the opportunity to develop substantial relationships with existing and prospective clients, accounts, customers, consultants, contractors, investors, and strategic partners of the Company Group during the course of and as a result of Executive’s employment with the Company. In light of the foregoing, as a condition of Executive’s employment by the Company, and in consideration of Executive’s employment hereunder and the compensation and benefits provided herein, Executive acknowledges and agrees to the covenants contained in this Section 9. Executive further recognizes and acknowledges that the restrictions and limitations set forth in this Section 9 are reasonable and valid in geographical and temporal scope and in all other respects and are essential to protect the value of the business and assets of the Company Group.

 

(b) Confidential Information.

 

(i) Executive acknowledges that, during the Term of Employment, Executive will have access to information about the Company Group and that Executive’s employment with the Company shall bring Executive into close contact with confidential and proprietary information of the Company Group. In recognition of the foregoing, Executive agrees, at all times during the Term of Employment and thereafter, to hold in confidence, and not to use, except for the benefit of the Company Group, or to disclose to any Person without written authorization of the Company, any Confidential Information.

 

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(ii) Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or impede Executive from communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any U.S. federal, state or local governmental or law enforcement branch, agency or entity (collectively, a “Governmental Entity”) with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal, state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any such law or regulation, provided that in each case such communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. Executive understands and acknowledges that an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any Federal or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (A) in confidence to a Federal, State, or local government official or to an attorney solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law, or (B) in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Executive understands and acknowledges further that an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Notwithstanding the foregoing, under no circumstance will Executive be authorized to disclose any information covered by attorney-client privilege or attorney work product of any member of the Company Group without prior written consent of Company’s General Counsel or other officer designated by the Company, unless otherwise permitted by the applicable whistleblower provisions of any law or regulation. Executive does not need the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) any member of the Company Group regarding any communication, disclosure, or activity permitted by this subsection.

 

(c) Assignment of Intellectual Property.

 

(i) Executive agrees that Executive will, without additional compensation, promptly make full written disclosure to the Company, and will hold in trust for the sole right and benefit of the Company all developments, original works of authorship, inventions, concepts, know-how, improvements, trade secrets, and similar proprietary rights, whether or not patentable or registrable under copyright or similar laws, which Executive may (or have previously) solely or jointly conceive or develop or reduce to practice, or cause to be conceived or developed or reduced to practice, during the Term of Employment, whether or not during regular working hours, provided they either (i) relate at the time of conception or reduction to practice of the invention to the business of any member of the Company Group, or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development of any member of the Company Group; (ii) result from or relate to any work performed for any member of the Company Group; or (iii) are developed through the use of equipment, supplies, or facilities of any member of the Company Group, or any Confidential Information, or in consultation with personnel of any member of the Company Group (collectively referred to as “Developments”). Executive further acknowledges that all Developments made by Executive (solely or jointly with others) within the scope of and during the Term of Employment are “works made for hire” (to the greatest extent permitted by applicable law) for which Executive is, in part, compensated by Executive’s Base Salary, unless regulated otherwise by law, but that, in the event any such Development is deemed not to be a work made for hire, Executive hereby assigns to the Company, or its designee, all Executive’s right, title, and interest throughout the world in and to any such Development.

 

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(ii) Executive agrees to assist the Company, or its designee, at the Company’s expense, in every way to secure the rights of the Company Group in the Developments and any copyrights, patents, trademarks, service marks, database rights, domain names, mask work rights, moral rights, and other intellectual property rights relating thereto in any and all countries, including the disclosure to the Company of all pertinent information and data with respect thereto, the execution of all applications, specifications, oaths, assignments, recordations, and all other instruments that the Company shall deem necessary in order to apply for, obtain, maintain, and transfer such rights and in order to assign and convey to the Company Group the sole and exclusive right, title, and interest in and to such Developments, and any intellectual property and other proprietary rights relating thereto. Executive further agrees that Executive’s obligation to execute or cause to be executed, when it is in Executive’s power to do so, any such instrument or papers shall continue after the termination of the Term of Employment until the expiration of the last such intellectual property right to expire in any country of the world; provided, however, that the Company shall reimburse Executive for Executive’s reasonable expenses incurred in connection with carrying out the foregoing obligation and, following termination of employment of the Term of Employment, shall compensate Executive for Executive’s time incurred in connection with carrying out Executive’s obligations under this Section 6(c)(ii) following such termination of at an hourly rate based upon Executive’s Base Salary as of immediately prior to Executive’s termination of Employment . If the Company is unable because of Executive’s mental or physical incapacity or unavailability for any other reason to secure Executive’s signature to apply for or to pursue any application for any United States or foreign patents or copyright registrations covering Developments or original works of authorship assigned to the Company as above, then Executive hereby irrevocably designates and appoints the Company and its duly authorized officers and agents as Executive’s agent and attorney in fact to act for and in Executive’s behalf and stead to execute and file any such applications or records and to do all other lawfully permitted acts to further the application for, prosecution, issuance, maintenance, and transfer of letters patent or registrations thereon with the same legal force and effect as if originally executed by me. Executive hereby waives and irrevocably quitclaims to the Company any and all claims, of any nature whatsoever, that Executive now or hereafter have for past, present, or future infringement of any and all proprietary rights assigned to the Company.

 

(d) Non-Competition. During the Term of Employment and the Post-Termination Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly engage in, have any equity interest in, or manage, provide services to or operate any person, firm, corporation, partnership or business (whether as director, officer, employee, agent, representative, partner, member, security holder, consultant or otherwise) that engages in any business, directly or indirectly (through a subsidiary or otherwise), which competes with the Business within the United States of America or any other jurisdiction in which any member of the Company Group engages in business derives a material portion of its revenues or has demonstrable plans to commence material business activities in.

 

(e) Non-Interference. During the Term of Employment and the Post-Termination Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly for Executive’s own account or for the account of any other Person, engage in Interfering Activities.

 

(f) Return of Documents. In the event of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder for any reason, Executive shall deliver to the Company (and will not keep in Executive’s possession, recreate, or deliver to anyone else) any and all Confidential Information and all other documents, materials, information, and property developed by Executive pursuant to Executive’s employment hereunder or otherwise belonging to the Company Group.

 

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(g) Independence; Severability; Blue Pencil. Each of the rights enumerated in this Section 9 shall be independent of the others and shall be in addition to and not in lieu of any other rights and remedies available to the Company Group at law or in equity. If any of the provisions of this Section 9 or any part of any of them is hereafter construed or adjudicated to be invalid or unenforceable, the same shall not affect the remainder of this Section 9, which shall be given full effect without regard to the invalid portions. If any of the covenants contained herein are held to be invalid or unenforceable because of the duration of such provisions or the area or scope covered thereby, each of the Company and Executive agree that the court making such determination shall have the power to reduce the duration, scope, and/or area of such provision to the maximum and/or broadest duration, scope, and/or area permissible by law, and in its reduced form said provision shall then be enforceable.

 

(h) Injunctive Relief. Executive expressly acknowledges that any breach or threatened breach of any of the terms and/or conditions set forth in this Section 9 may result in substantial, continuing, and irreparable injury to the members of the Company Group. Therefore, Executive hereby agrees that, in addition to any other remedy that may be available to the Company, any member of the Company Group shall be entitled to seek injunctive relief, specific performance, or other equitable relief by a court of appropriate jurisdiction in the event of any breach or threatened breach of the terms of this Section 9. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Post-Termination Restricted Period shall be tolled during any period of violation of any of the covenants in this Section 9 and during any other period required for litigation during which the Company or any other member of the Company Group seeks to enforce such covenants against Executive if it is ultimately determined that Executive was in breach of such covenants.

 

(i) Disclosure of Covenants. As long as it remains in effect, Executive will disclose the existence of the covenants contained in this Section 9 to any prospective employer, partner, co-venturer, investor, or lender prior to entering into an employment, partnership, or other business relationship with such Person or entity.

 

Section 10. Representations and Warranties of Executive.

 

Executive represents and warrants to the Company that:

 

(a) Executive is entering into this Agreement voluntarily and that Executive’s employment hereunder and compliance with the terms and conditions hereof will not conflict with or result in the breach by Executive of any agreement to which Executive is a party or by which Executive may be bound;

 

(b) Executive has not violated, and in connection with Executive’s employment with the Company will not violate, any non-solicitation, non-competition, or other similar covenant or agreement with any Person by which Executive is or may be bound;

 

(c) In connection with Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive will not use any confidential or proprietary information Executive may have obtained in connection with employment or service with any prior service recipient; and

 

(d) Executive has not been terminated from any prior employer or service recipient, or otherwise disciplined in connection any such relationship, in connection with, or as a result of, any claim of workplace sexual harassment or sex or gender discrimination, and to Executive’s knowledge, Executive has not been the subject of any investigation, formal allegation, civil or criminal complaint, charge, or settlement regarding workplace sexual harassment or sex or gender discrimination.

 

Section 11. Indemnification.

 

The Company agrees during and after Executive’s employment to indemnify and hold harmless Executive to the fullest extent permitted by the organizational documents of the Company, or if greater, in accordance with applicable law regarding indemnification, for actions or inactions of Executive in accordance with Executive’s performance of his duties under this Agreement, as an officer, director, employee or agent of the Company or any affiliate thereof or as a fiduciary of any benefit plan of any of the foregoing. The Company also agrees to provide Executive with directors’ and officers’ liability insurance coverage both during and after Executive’s employment with regard to matters occurring during employment, or while serving on the governing body of the Company, or any affiliate thereof, which coverage will be at a level at least equal to the greatest level being maintained at such time for any current officer or director and shall continue until such time as suits can no longer be brought against Executive as a matter of law. Executive will be entitled to advancement of expenses from the Company or its applicable subsidiaries in connection with any claim in the same manner and to the same extent to which any other officer or director of the Company is entitled.

 

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Section 12. Taxes.

 

The Company may withhold from any payments made under this Agreement or otherwise made in connection with Executive’s employment hereunder, all applicable taxes, including but not limited to income, employment, and social insurance taxes, as shall be required by law. If any such taxes are paid or advanced by the Company on behalf of Executive, Executive shall remain responsible for, and shall repay, such amounts to the Company, promptly following notice thereof by the Company. Executive acknowledges and represents that the Company has not provided any tax advice to Executive in connection with this Agreement and that Executive has been advised by the Company to seek tax advice from Executive’s own tax advisors regarding this Agreement and payments that may be made to Executive pursuant to this Agreement, including specifically, the application of the provisions of Section 409A of the Code to such payments.

 

Section 13. Set Off; Mitigation.

 

The Company’s obligation to pay Executive the amounts provided and to make the arrangements provided hereunder shall not be subject to set-off, counterclaim, or recoupment of amounts owed by Executive to the Company or its affiliates Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided pursuant to this Agreement by seeking other employment or otherwise, and except as provided in Section 1(a)(v) or Section 1(a)(vi) hereof, the amount of any payment provided for pursuant to this Agreement shall not be reduced by any compensation earned as a result of Executive’s other employment or otherwise.

 

Section 14. Additional Section 409A Provisions.

 

Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary:

 

(a) Any payment otherwise required to be made hereunder to Executive at any date as a result of the termination of Executive’s employment shall be delayed for such period of time as may be necessary to meet the requirements of Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code (the “Delay Period”). On the first business day following the expiration of the Delay Period, Executive shall be paid, in a single cash lump sum, an amount equal to the aggregate amount of all payments delayed pursuant to the preceding sentence, and any remaining payments not so delayed shall continue to be paid pursuant to the payment schedule set forth herein.

 

(b) Each payment in a series of payments hereunder shall be deemed to be a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A of the Code.

 

(c) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the payment (or commencement of a series of payments) hereunder of any nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code) upon a termination of employment shall be delayed until such time as Executive has also undergone a “separation from service” as defined in Treas. Reg. 1.409A-1(h), at which time such nonqualified deferred compensation (calculated as of the date of Executive’s termination of employment hereunder) shall be paid (or commence to be paid) to Executive on the schedule set forth in Section 7 as if Executive had undergone such termination of employment (under the same circumstances) on the date of Executive’s ultimate “separation from service.”

 

(d) To the extent that any right to reimbursement of expenses or payment of any benefit in-kind under this Agreement constitutes nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code), (i) any such expense reimbursement shall be made by the Company no later than the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which such expense was incurred by Executive, (ii) the right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits shall not be subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit, and (iii) the amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits provided during any taxable year shall not affect the expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits to be provided in any other taxable year; provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not be violated with regard to expenses reimbursed under any arrangement covered by Section 105(b) of the Code solely because such expenses are subject to a limit related to the period the arrangement is in effect.

 

(e) While the payments and benefits provided hereunder are intended to be structured in a manner to avoid the implication of any penalty taxes under Section 409A of the Code, and shall be interpreted in accordance therewith, in no event whatsoever shall any member of the Company Group be liable for any additional tax, interest, or penalties that may be imposed on Executive as a result of Section 409A of the Code or any damages for failing to comply with Section 409A of the Code (other than for withholding obligations or other obligations applicable to employers, if any, under Section 409A of the Code).

 

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Section 15. Successors and Assigns; No Third-Party Beneficiaries.

 

(a) The Company. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of the Company and its respective successors and assigns. Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, obligations, or interests arising hereunder may be assigned by the Company to a Person (other than another member of the Company Group, or its or their respective successors) without Executive’s prior written consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed, or conditioned); provided, however, that in the event of a sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company or any direct or indirect division or subsidiary thereof to which Executive’s employment primarily relates, the Company may provide that this Agreement will be assigned to, and assumed by, the acquiror of such assets, division or subsidiary, as applicable, without Executive’s consent.

 

(b) Executive. Executive’s rights and obligations under this Agreement shall not be transferable by Executive by assignment or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the Company; provided, however, that if Executive shall die, all amounts then payable to Executive hereunder shall be paid in accordance with the terms of this Agreement to Executive’s devisee, legatee, or other designee, or if there be no such designee, to Executive’s estate.

 

(c) No Third-Party Beneficiaries. Except as otherwise set forth in Section 7(c) or Section 15(b) hereof, nothing expressed or referred to in this Agreement will be construed to give any Person other than the Company, the other members of the Company Group, and Executive any legal or equitable right, remedy, or claim under or with respect to this Agreement or any provision of this Agreement.

 

Section 16. Waiver and Amendments.

 

Any waiver, alteration, amendment, or modification of any of the terms of this Agreement shall be valid only if made in writing and signed by each of the parties hereto; provided, however, that any such waiver, alteration, amendment, or modification must be consented to on the Company’s behalf by the Board. No waiver by either of the parties hereto of their rights hereunder shall be deemed to constitute a waiver with respect to any subsequent occurrences or transactions hereunder unless such waiver specifically states that it is to be construed as a continuing waiver.

 

Section 17. Severability.

 

If any covenants or such other provisions of this Agreement are found to be invalid or unenforceable by a final determination of a court of competent jurisdiction, (a) the remaining terms and provisions hereof shall be unimpaired, and (b) the invalid or unenforceable term or provision hereof shall be deemed replaced by a term or provision that is valid and enforceable and that comes closest to expressing the intention of the invalid or unenforceable term or provision hereof.

 

Section 18. Governing Law; Waiver of Jury Trial; Arbitration.

 

THIS AGREEMENT IS GOVERNED BY AND IS TO BE CONSTRUED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT ALSO HEREBY WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUIT, ACTION, OR PROCEEDING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT. Except as permitted under Section 9 hereof, any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement (or the breach thereof) shall be settled by final, binding and non-appealable arbitration in Chicago, Illinois by three arbitrators. The arbitration shall be conducted by JAMS pursuant to its Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures and subject to JAMS Policy on Employment Arbitration in accordance with its Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures then in effect. Judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators shall have the authority to award any remedy or relief that a court of competent jurisdiction could order or grant, including, without limitation, the issuance of an injunction. However, either party may, without inconsistency with this arbitration provision, apply to any court having jurisdiction over such dispute or controversy and seek interim provisional, injunctive or other equitable relief until the arbitration award is rendered or the controversy is otherwise resolved, or permanent injunctive relief. Except as necessary in court proceedings to enforce this arbitration provision or an award rendered hereunder, to obtain interim relief or as otherwise required by law, neither a party nor an arbitrator may disclose the content or results of any arbitration hereunder without the prior written consent of the Company and Executive, other than general statements. The fees charged by JAMS and any arbitrator shall be split equally between the parties to the arbitration.

 

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Section 19. Notices.

 

All notices and other communications required or permitted under this Agreement which are addressed as provided in this Section 19, (A) if delivered personally against proper receipt shall be effective upon delivery and (B) if sent (x) by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid or (y) by Federal Express or similar courier service with courier fees paid by the sender, shall be effective upon receipt. The parties hereto may from time to time change their respective addresses for the purpose of notices to that party by a similar notice specifying a new address, but no such change shall be deemed to have been given unless it is sent and received in accordance with this Section 19.

 

If to the Company:

 

Clarus Therapeutics, Inc.
555 Skokie Blvd.
Suite 340
Northbrook, IL 60062
Attn: Corporate Secretary

 

With copy to:

 

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, LLP
425 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10017
Attn: David E. Rubinsky

 

If to Executive:

 

To the most recent address of Executive set forth in the personnel records of the Company.

 

Section 20. Section Headings.

 

The headings of the sections and subsections of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part thereof or affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement or of any term or provision hereof.

 

Section 21. Entire Agreement.

 

This Agreement, together with any exhibits attached hereto, constitutes the entire understanding and agreement of the parties hereto regarding the employment of Executive. This Agreement supersedes all prior negotiations, discussions, correspondence, communications, understandings, and agreements between the parties relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, including, without limitation, the Prior Agreement.

 

Section 22. Survival of Operative Sections.

 

Upon any termination of Executive’s employment, the provisions of Section 7 through Section 23 of this Agreement (together with any related definitions set forth on Appendix A) shall survive to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions thereof.

 

Section 23. Counterparts.

 

This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. The execution of this Agreement may be by actual or facsimile signature.

 

*     *     *

 

[Signatures to appear on the following page.]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

 

  CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.
     
  /s/ Robert E. Dudley
  By: Robert E. Dudley, Ph.D.
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and President
     
  EXECUTIVE
     
  /s/ Frank A. Jaeger
  Frank A. Jaeger

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX A
Definitions

 

(a) Accrued Obligations” shall mean (i) all accrued but unpaid Base Salary through the date of termination of Executive’s employment, (ii) any unpaid or unreimbursed expenses incurred in accordance with Section 6 hereof, (iii) an amount equal to Executive’s accrued, but unused vacation days, multiplied by the quotient of Executive’s Annual Salary divided by 2,087 hours) in accordance with the Company’s vacation policies in effect from time to time, and (iv) any benefits provided under the Company’s employee benefit plans upon a termination of employment, including rights with respect to equity participation under the Equity Documents, in accordance with the terms contained therein.

 

(b) Board” shall mean the Board of Directors of Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

 

(c) Business” shall mean any business activities related to the Company Group’s research, development, and commercialization efforts in the fields of testosterone therapy in men and women (e.g., certain forms of breast cancer) and ubiquinone deficiency(ies), or any other current or demonstrably planned business activities of the Company Group.

 

(d) Business Relation” shall mean any current or prospective client, customer, licensee, supplier, or other business relation of the Company Group, or any such relation that was a client, customer, licensee or other business relation within the prior six (6)-month period, in each case, with whom Executive transacted business or whose identity became known to Executive in connection with Executive’s employment hereunder.

 

(e) Cause” shall mean (i) Executive’s act(s) of gross negligence or willful misconduct in the course of Executive’s employment hereunder, (ii) willful failure or refusal by Executive to perform in any material respect Executive’s duties or responsibilities, (iii) misappropriation (or attempted misappropriation) by Executive of any assets or business opportunities of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (iv) embezzlement or fraud committed (or attempted) by Executive, or at Executive’s direction, (v) Executive’s conviction of, indictment for, or pleading “guilty” or “ no contest” to, (x) a felony or (y) any other criminal charge that has, or could be reasonably expected to have, an adverse impact on the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company or any other member of the Company Group or otherwise result in material injury to the reputation or business of the Company or any other member of the Company Group, (vi) any material violation by Executive of the policies of the Company, including but not limited to those relating to sexual harassment or business conduct, and those otherwise set forth in the manuals or statements of policy of the Company, or (vii) Executive’s material breach of this Agreement.

 

(f) Code” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(g) Company Group” shall mean Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. together with any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries (including, but not limited to, the Company).

 

 

 

 

(h) Compensation Committee” shall mean the Compensation Committee of the Board.

 

(i) Confidential Information” means information that the Company Group has or will develop, acquire, create, compile, discover, or own, that has value in or to the business of the Company Group that is not generally known and that the Company wishes to maintain as confidential. Confidential Information includes, but is not limited to, any and all non-public information that relates to the actual or anticipated business and/or products, research, or development of the Company Group, or to the Company Group’s technical data, trade secrets, or know-how, including, but not limited to, research, plans, or other information regarding the Company Group’s products or services and markets, customer lists, and customers (including, but not limited to, customers of the Company on whom Executive called or with whom Executive may become acquainted during the Term of Employment), software, developments, inventions, processes, formulas, technology, designs, drawings, engineering, hardware configuration information, marketing, finances, and other business information disclosed by the Company either directly or indirectly in writing, orally, or by drawings or inspection of premises, parts, equipment, or other Company Group property. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Confidential Information shall not include any of the foregoing items that have become publicly and widely known through no unauthorized disclosure by Executive or others who were under confidentiality obligations as to the item or items involved.

 

(j) Disability” shall mean any physical or mental disability or infirmity of Executive that prevents the performance of Executive’s duties for a period of (i) ninety (90) consecutive days or (ii) one hundred eighty (180) non-consecutive days during any twelve (12)-month period. Any question as to the existence, extent, or potentiality of Executive’s Disability upon which Executive and the Company cannot agree shall be determined by a qualified, independent physician selected by the Company and approved by Executive (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned). The determination of any such physician shall be final and conclusive for all purposes of this Agreement.

 

(k) Good Reason” shall mean, without Executive’s consent, (i) a material demotion in Executive’s title, duties, or responsibilities as set forth in Section 3 hereof, (ii) a material reduction in Base Salary set forth in Section 4(a) hereof or Target Annual Bonus opportunity set forth in Section 4(b) hereof (other than pursuant to an across-the-board reduction applicable to all similarly situated executives), or (iii) any other material breach of a provision of this Agreement by the Company (other than a provision that is covered by clause (i) or (ii) above). Executive acknowledges and agrees that Executive’s exclusive remedy in the event of any breach of this Agreement shall be to assert Good Reason pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 7(f) hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Term of Employment, in the event that the Board reasonably believes that Executive may have engaged in conduct that could constitute Cause hereunder, the Board may, in its sole and absolute discretion, suspend Executive from performing Executive’s duties hereunder, and in no event shall any such suspension constitute an event pursuant to which Executive may terminate employment with Good Reason or otherwise constitute a breach hereunder; provided, that no such suspension shall alter the Company’s obligations under this Agreement during such period of suspension.

 

Appendix A-2

 

 

(l) Interfering Activities” shall mean (A) recruiting, encouraging, soliciting, or inducing, or in any manner attempting to recruit, encourage, solicit, or induce, any Person employed by, or providing consulting services to, any member of the Company Group to terminate such Person’s employment or services (or in the case of a consultant, materially reducing such services) with the Company Group, (B) hiring, or engaging any individual who was employed by or providing services to the Company Group within the six (6)-month period prior to the date of such hiring or engagement, or (C) encouraging, soliciting, or inducing, or in any manner attempting to encourage, solicit, or induce, any Business Relation to cease doing business with or reduce the amount of business conducted with the Company Group, or in any way interfering with the relationship between any such Business Relation and the Company Group.

 

(m) Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust (charitable or non-charitable), unincorporated organization, or other form of business entity.

 

(n) Post-Termination Restricted Period” shall mean the period commencing on the date of the termination of the Employment Period for any reason and ending twelve (12) months following such date of termination.

 

(o) Release of Claims” shall mean the Release of Claims in substantially the same form attached hereto as Exhibit A (as the same may be revised from time to time by the Company upon the advice of counsel).

 

Appendix A-3

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

RELEASE OF CLAIMS

 

As used in this Release of Claims (this “Release”), the term “claims” will include all claims, covenants, warranties, promises, undertakings, actions, suits, causes of action, obligations, debts, accounts, attorneys’ fees, judgments, losses, and liabilities, of whatsoever kind or nature, in law, in equity, or otherwise.

 

For and in consideration of the Severance Benefits, and other good and valuable consideration, I, Frank A. Jaeger, for and on behalf of myself and my heirs, administrators, executors, and assigns, effective the date on which this release becomes effective pursuant to its terms, do fully and forever release, remise, and discharge each of the Company and each of its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliates (including, but not limited to, Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.), together with their respective officers, directors, partners, shareholders, employees, and agents (collectively, the “Group”) from any and all claims whatsoever up to the date hereof that I had, may have had, or now have against the Group, for or by reason of any matter, cause, or thing whatsoever, including any claim arising out of or attributable to my employment or the termination of my employment with the Company, whether for tort, breach of express or implied employment contract, intentional infliction of emotional distress, wrongful termination, unjust dismissal, defamation, libel, or slander, or under any federal, state, or local law dealing with discrimination based on age, race, sex, national origin, handicap, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. This release of claims includes, but is not limited to, all claims arising under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (“ADEA”), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Family Medical Leave Act, and the Equal Pay Act, each as may be amended from time to time, and all other federal, state, and local laws, the common law, and any other purported restriction on an employer’s right to terminate the employment of employees. The release contained herein is intended to be a general release of any and all claims to the fullest extent permissible by law.

 

I acknowledge and agree that as of the date I execute this Release, I have no knowledge of any facts or circumstances that give rise or could give rise to any claims under any of the laws listed in the preceding paragraph.

 

By executing this Release, I specifically release all claims relating to my employment and its termination under ADEA, a United States federal statute that, among other things, prohibits discrimination on the basis of age in employment and employee benefit plans.

 

Notwithstanding any provision of this Release to the contrary, by executing this Release, I am not releasing (i) any claims relating to my rights under Section 7 of the Employment Agreement, (ii) any claims that cannot be waived by law, or (iii) my right of indemnification as provided by, and in accordance with the terms of, the Company’s by-laws or a Company insurance policy providing such coverage, as any of such may be amended from time to time.

 

I expressly acknowledge and agree that I –

 

Am able to read the language, and understand the meaning and effect, of this Release;

 

Have no physical or mental impairment of any kind that has interfered with my ability to read and understand the meaning of this Release or its terms, and that I am not acting under the influence of any medication, drug, or chemical of any type in entering into this Release;

 

Am specifically agreeing to the terms of the release contained in this Release because the Company has agreed to pay me the Severance Benefits in consideration for my agreement to accept it in full settlement of all possible claims I might have or ever had, and because of my execution of this Release;

 

 

 

 

Acknowledge that, but for my execution of this Release, I would not be entitled to the Severance Benefits;

 

Understand that, by entering into this Release, I do not waive rights or claims under ADEA that may arise after the date I execute this Release;

 

Had or could have [twenty-one (21)][forty-five (45)]1 days from the date of my termination of employment (the “Release Expiration Date”) in which to review and consider this Release, and that if I execute this Release prior to the Release Expiration Date, I have voluntarily and knowingly waived the remainder of the review period;

 

Have not relied upon any representation or statement not set forth in this Release or my Employment Agreement made by the Company or any of its representatives;

 

Was advised to consult with my attorney regarding the terms and effect of this Release; and

 

Have signed this Release knowingly and voluntarily.

 

I represent and warrant that I have not previously filed, and to the maximum extent permitted by law agree that I will not file, a complaint, charge, or lawsuit against any member of the Group regarding any of the claims released herein. If, notwithstanding this representation and warranty, I have filed or file such a complaint, charge, or lawsuit, I agree that I shall cause such complaint, charge, or lawsuit to be dismissed with prejudice and shall pay any and all costs required in obtaining dismissal of such complaint, charge, or lawsuit, including without limitation the attorneys’ fees of any member of the Group against whom I have filed such a complaint, charge, or lawsuit. This paragraph shall not apply, however, to a claim of age discrimination under ADEA or to any non-waivable right to file a charge with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (the “EEOC”); provided, however, that if the EEOC were to pursue any claims relating to my employment with Company, I agree that I shall not be entitled to recover any monetary damages or any other remedies or benefits as a result and that this Release and the Severance Benefits will control as the exclusive remedy and full settlement of all such claims by me.

 

Nothing in this Release shall prohibit or impede me from communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any Governmental Entity with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal, state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any such law or regulation; provided, that in each case such communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. I understand and acknowledge that an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official or to an attorney solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law, or (2) in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. I understand and acknowledge further that an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order. Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph or under applicable law, under no circumstance am I authorized to disclose any information covered by the Company’s attorney-client privilege or attorney work product, or the Company’s trade secrets, without the prior written consent of the Company’s General Counsel or other officer designated by the Company. I do not need the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) any member of the Company Group regarding any communication, disclosure, or activity permitted by this paragraph.

 

 

 

 
1 To be selected based on whether applicable termination was “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967).

 

A-2

 

 

I hereby agree to waive any and all claims to re-employment with the Company or any other member of the Company Group (as defined in my Employment Agreement) and affirmatively agree not to seek further employment with the Company or any other member of the Company Group.

 

Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, this Release will not become effective or enforceable prior to the expiration of the period of seven (7) calendar days following the date of its execution by me (the “Revocation Period”), during which time I may revoke my acceptance of this Release by notifying the Company and the Board of Directors of the Company, in writing, delivered to the Company at its principal executive office, marked for the attention of its General Counsel. To be effective, such revocation must be received by the Company no later than 11:59 p.m. on the seventh (7th) calendar day following the execution of this Release. Provided that the Release is executed and I do not revoke it during the Revocation Period, the eighth (8th) day following the date on which this Release is executed shall be its effective date. I acknowledge and agree that if I revoke this Release during the Revocation Period, this Release will be null and void and of no effect, and neither the Company nor any other member of the Company will have any obligations to pay me the Severance Benefits.

 

The provisions of this Release shall be binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators, legal personal representatives, and assigns. If any provision of this Release shall be held by any court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal, void, or unenforceable, such provision shall be of no force or effect. The illegality or unenforceability of such provision, however, shall have no effect upon and shall not impair the enforceability of any other provision of this Release.

 

EXCEPT WHERE PREEMPTED BY FEDERAL LAW, THIS RELEASE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL LAW AND THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, APPLICABLE TO AGREEMENTS MADE AND TO BE PERFORMED IN THAT STATE WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT TO THE PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAWS. I HEREBY WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SUIT, ACTION, OR PROCEEDING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS RELEASE.

 

Capitalized terms used, but not defined herein, shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in my Employment Agreement, dated September 9, 2021, with the Company (the “Employment Agreement”).

 

 

Frank A. Jaeger
Date:

 

 

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Exhibit 10.9

 

INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
UNDER THE CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.
2021 STOCK OPTION AND INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Name of Optionee:  
     
No. of Option Shares:  
   
Option Exercise Price per Share: $  
 

 

Grant Date:  
     
   
Expiration Date:

 

Pursuant to the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan as amended through the date hereof (the “Plan”), Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby grants to the Optionee named above an option (the “Stock Option”) to purchase on or prior to the Expiration Date specified above all or part of the number of shares of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Stock”), of the Company specified above at the Option Exercise Price per Share specified above subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan.

 

1. Exercisability Schedule. No portion of this Stock Option may be exercised until such portion shall have become exercisable. Except as set forth below, and subject to the discretion of the Administrator (as defined in Section 1 of the Plan) to accelerate the exercisability schedule hereunder, this Stock Option shall be exercisable with respect to the following number of Option Shares on the dates indicated so long as the Optionee continues to have a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary on such dates:

 

Incremental Number of
Option Shares Exercisable*

  Exercisability Date
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________

 

* Max. of $100,000 per yr.

 

Once exercisable, this Stock Option shall continue to be exercisable at any time or times prior to the close of business on the Expiration Date, subject to the provisions hereof and of the Plan.

 

 

 

 

2. Manner of Exercise.

 

(a) The Optionee may exercise this Stock Option only in the following manner: from time to time on or prior to the Expiration Date of this Stock Option, the Optionee may give written notice to the Administrator of his or her election to purchase some or all of the Option Shares purchasable at the time of such notice. This notice shall specify the number of Option Shares to be purchased.

 

Payment of the purchase price for the Option Shares may be made by one or more of the following methods: (i) in cash, by certified or bank check or other instrument acceptable to the Administrator; (ii) through the delivery (or attestation to the ownership) of shares of Stock that have been purchased by the Optionee on the open market or that are beneficially owned by the Optionee and are not then subject to any restrictions under any Company plan and that otherwise satisfy any holding periods as may be required by the Administrator; or (iii) by the Optionee delivering to the Company a properly executed exercise notice together with irrevocable instructions to a broker to promptly deliver to the Company cash or a check payable and acceptable to the Company to pay the option purchase price, provided that in the event the Optionee chooses to pay the option purchase price as so provided, the Optionee and the broker shall comply with such procedures and enter into such agreements of indemnity and other agreements as the Administrator shall prescribe as a condition of such payment procedure; or (iv) a combination of (i), (ii) and (iii) above. Payment instruments will be received subject to collection.

 

The transfer to the Optionee on the records of the Company or of the transfer agent of the Option Shares will be contingent upon (i) the Company’s receipt from the Optionee of the full purchase price for the Option Shares, as set forth above, (ii) the fulfillment of any other requirements contained herein or in the Plan or in any other agreement or provision of laws, and (iii) the receipt by the Company of any agreement, statement or other evidence that the Company may require to satisfy itself that the issuance of Stock to be purchased pursuant to the exercise of Stock Options under the Plan and any subsequent resale of the shares of Stock will be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. In the event the Optionee chooses to pay the purchase price by previously-owned shares of Stock through the attestation method, the number of shares of Stock transferred to the Optionee upon the exercise of the Stock Option shall be net of the Shares attested to.

 

(b) The shares of Stock purchased upon exercise of this Stock Option shall be transferred to the Optionee on the records of the Company or of the transfer agent upon compliance to the satisfaction of the Administrator with all requirements under applicable laws or regulations in connection with such transfer and with the requirements hereof and of the Plan. The determination of the Administrator as to such compliance shall be final and binding on the Optionee. The Optionee shall not be deemed to be the holder of, or to have any of the rights of a holder with respect to, any shares of Stock subject to this Stock Option unless and until this Stock Option shall have been exercised pursuant to the terms hereof, the Company or the transfer agent shall have transferred the shares to the Optionee, and the Optionee’s name shall have been entered as the stockholder of record on the books of the Company. Thereupon, the Optionee shall have full voting, dividend and other ownership rights with respect to such shares of Stock.

 

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision hereof or of the Plan, no portion of this Stock Option shall be exercisable after the Expiration Date hereof.

 

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3. Termination of Service Relationship. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary (as defined in the Plan) is terminated, the period within which to exercise the Stock Option may be subject to earlier termination as set forth below.

 

(a) Termination Due to Death. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates by reason of the Optionee’s death, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date, to the extent exercisable on the date of death, may thereafter be exercised by the Optionee’s legal representative or legatee for a period of 12 months from the date of death or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of death shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

(b) Termination Due to Disability. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates by reason of the Optionee’s disability (as determined by the Administrator), any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date, to the extent exercisable on the date of such termination, may thereafter be exercised by the Optionee for a period of 12 months from the date of termination due to disability or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of termination due to disability shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

(c) Termination for Cause. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for Cause, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date shall terminate immediately and be of no further force and effect. For purposes hereof, “Cause” shall mean, unless otherwise provided in an employment or service agreement between the Company and the Optionee, a determination by the Administrator that the Optionee shall be dismissed as a result of (i) any material breach by the Optionee of any agreement between the Optionee and the Company; (ii) the conviction of, indictment for or plea of nolo contendere by the Optionee to a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude; or (iii) any material misconduct or willful and deliberate non-performance (other than by reason of disability) by the Optionee of the Optionee’s duties to the Company.

 

(d) Other Termination. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for any reason other than the Optionee’s death, the Optionee’s disability, or Cause, and unless otherwise determined by the Administrator, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date may be exercised, to the extent exercisable on the date of termination, for a period of three months from the date of termination or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of termination shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

The Administrator’s determination of the reason for termination of the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary shall be conclusive and binding on the Optionee and his or her representatives or legatees.

 

4. Incorporation of Plan. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Stock Option shall be subject to and governed by all the terms and conditions of the Plan, including the powers of the Administrator set forth in Section 2(b) of the Plan. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meaning specified in the Plan, unless a different meaning is specified herein.

 

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5. Transferability. This Agreement is personal to the Optionee, is non-assignable and is not transferable in any manner, by operation of law or otherwise, other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. This Stock Option is exercisable, during the Optionee’s lifetime, only by the Optionee, and thereafter, only by the Optionee’s legal representative or legatee.

 

6. Status of the Stock Option. This Stock Option is intended to qualify as an “incentive stock option” under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), but the Company does not represent or warrant that this Stock Option qualifies as such. The Optionee should consult with his or her own tax advisors regarding the tax effects of this Stock Option and the requirements necessary to obtain favorable income tax treatment under Section 422 of the Code, including, but not limited to, holding period requirements and that this Stock Option must be exercised within three months after termination of employment as an employee (or 12 months in the case of death or disability) to qualify as an “incentive stock option.” To the extent any portion of this Stock Option does not so qualify as an “incentive stock option,” such portion shall be deemed to be a non-qualified stock option. If the Optionee intends to dispose or does dispose (whether by sale, gift, transfer or otherwise) of any Option Shares within the one-year period beginning on the date after the transfer of such shares to him or her, or within the two-year period beginning on the day after the grant of this Stock Option, he or she will so notify the Company within 30 days after such disposition.

 

7. Tax Withholding. The Optionee shall, not later than the date as of which the exercise of this Stock Option becomes a taxable event for Federal income tax purposes, pay to the Company or make arrangements satisfactory to the Administrator for payment of any Federal, state, and local taxes required by law to be withheld on account of such taxable event. The Company shall have the authority to cause the required tax withholding obligation to be satisfied, in whole or in part, by (i) withholding from shares of Stock to be issued to the Optionee a number of shares of Stock with an aggregate Fair Market Value that would satisfy the withholding amount due; or (ii) causing its transfer agent to sell from the number of shares of Stock to be issued to the Optionee, the number of shares of Stock necessary to satisfy the Federal, state and local taxes required by law to be withheld from the Optionee on account of such transfer.

 

8. No Obligation to Continue Service Relationship. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is obligated by or as a result of the Plan or this Agreement to continue the Optionee in a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary and neither the Plan nor this Agreement shall interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary at any time.

 

9. Integration. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to this Stock Option and supersedes all prior agreements and discussions between the parties concerning such subject matter.

 

4 

 

 

10. Data Privacy Consent. In order to administer the Plan and this Agreement and to implement or structure future equity grants, the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and certain agents thereof (together, the “Relevant Companies”) may process any and all personal or professional data, including but not limited to Social Security or other identification number, home address and telephone number, date of birth and other information that is necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan and/or this Agreement (the “Relevant Information”). By entering into this Agreement, the Optionee (i) authorizes the Company to collect, process, register and transfer to the Relevant Companies all Relevant Information; (ii) waives any privacy rights the Optionee may have with respect to the Relevant Information; (iii) authorizes the Relevant Companies to store and transmit such information in electronic form; and (iv) authorizes the transfer of the Relevant Information to any jurisdiction in which the Relevant Companies consider appropriate. The Optionee shall have access to, and the right to change, the Relevant Information. Relevant Information will only be used in accordance with applicable law.

 

11. Notices. Notices hereunder shall be mailed or delivered to the Company at its principal place of business and shall be mailed or delivered to the Optionee at the address on file with the Company or, in either case, at such other address as one party may subsequently furnish to the other party in writing.

 

  Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.
     
  By:  
    Title:  

  

The foregoing Agreement is hereby accepted and the terms and conditions thereof hereby agreed to by the undersigned. Electronic acceptance of this Agreement pursuant to the Company’s instructions to the Optionee (including through an online acceptance process) is acceptable.

 

Dated:      
  Optionee’s Signature

 

  Optionee’s name and address:
   
   
   
   
   
   

 

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NON-QUALIFIED STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
FOR NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS
UNDER THE Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, INC.
2021 STOCK OPTION AND INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Name of Optionee:    
     
No. of Option Shares:    
   
Option Exercise Price per Share: $  
 

 

Grant Date:    
   
Expiration Date:    
   

 

Pursuant to the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan as amended through the date hereof (the “Plan”), Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby grants to the Optionee named above, who is a Non-Employee Director of the Company but is not an employee of the Company, an option (the “Stock Option”) to purchase on or prior to the Expiration Date specified above all or part of the number of shares of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Stock”), of the Company specified above at the Option Exercise Price per Share specified above subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan. This Stock Option is not intended to be an “incentive stock option” under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

1. Exercisability Schedule. No portion of this Stock Option may be exercised until such portion shall have become exercisable. Except as set forth below, and subject to the discretion of the Administrator to accelerate the exercisability schedule hereunder, this Stock Option shall be exercisable with respect to the following number of Option Shares on the dates indicated so long as the Optionee remains in a continued Service Relationship on such dates:

 

Incremental Number of
Option Shares Exercisable

  Exercisability Date
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of a Sale Event, 100% of the then-outstanding and unvested Option Shares shall immediately be deemed vested and exercisable on the date of such Sale Event; provided, that the Optionee remains in a continuous Service Relationship until the date of such Sale Event. Once exercisable, this Stock Option shall continue to be exercisable at any time or times prior to the close of business on the Expiration Date, subject to the provisions hereof and of the Plan.

 

6 

 

 

2. Manner of Exercise.

 

(a) The Optionee may exercise this Stock Option only in the following manner: from time to time on or prior to the Expiration Date of this Stock Option, the Optionee may give written notice to the Administrator of his or her election to purchase some or all of the Option Shares purchasable at the time of such notice. This notice shall specify the number of Option Shares to be purchased.

 

Payment of the purchase price for the Option Shares may be made by one or more of the following methods: (i) in cash, by certified or bank check or other instrument acceptable to the Administrator; (ii)  through the delivery (or attestation to the ownership) of shares of Stock that have been purchased by the Optionee on the open market or that are beneficially owned by the Optionee and are not then subject to any restrictions under any Company plan and that otherwise satisfy any holding periods as may be required by the Administrator; (iii) by the Optionee delivering to the Company a properly executed exercise notice together with irrevocable instructions to a broker to promptly deliver to the Company cash or a check payable and acceptable to the Company to pay the option purchase price, provided that in the event the Optionee chooses to pay the option purchase price as so provided, the Optionee and the broker shall comply with such procedures and enter into such agreements of indemnity and other agreements as the Administrator shall prescribe as a condition of such payment procedure; (iv)  by a “net exercise” arrangement pursuant to which the Company will reduce the number of shares of Stock issuable upon exercise by the largest whole number of shares with a Fair Market Value that does not exceed the aggregate exercise price; or (v) a combination of (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above. Payment instruments will be received subject to collection.

 

The transfer to the Optionee on the records of the Company or of the transfer agent of the Option Shares will be contingent upon (i) the Company’s receipt from the Optionee of the full purchase price for the Option Shares, as set forth above, (ii) the fulfillment of any other requirements contained herein or in the Plan or in any other agreement or provision of laws, and (iii) the receipt by the Company of any agreement, statement or other evidence that the Company may require to satisfy itself that the issuance of Stock to be purchased pursuant to the exercise of Stock Options under the Plan and any subsequent resale of the shares of Stock will be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. In the event the Optionee chooses to pay the purchase price by previously-owned shares of Stock through the attestation method, the number of shares of Stock transferred to the Optionee upon the exercise of the Stock Option shall be net of the Shares attested to.

 

(b) The shares of Stock purchased upon exercise of this Stock Option shall be transferred to the Optionee on the records of the Company or of the transfer agent upon compliance to the satisfaction of the Administrator with all requirements under applicable laws or regulations in connection with such transfer and with the requirements hereof and of the Plan. The determination of the Administrator as to such compliance shall be final and binding on the Optionee. The Optionee shall not be deemed to be the holder of, or to have any of the rights of a holder with respect to, any shares of Stock subject to this Stock Option unless and until this Stock Option shall have been exercised pursuant to the terms hereof, the Company or the transfer agent shall have transferred the shares to the Optionee, and the Optionee’s name shall have been entered as the stockholder of record on the books of the Company. Thereupon, the Optionee shall have full voting, dividend and other ownership rights with respect to such shares of Stock.

 

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(c) Notwithstanding any other provision hereof or of the Plan, no portion of this Stock Option shall be exercisable after the Expiration Date hereof.

 

3. Termination of Service Relationship. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship terminates, the period within which to exercise the Stock Option may be subject to earlier termination as set forth below.

 

(a) Termination Due to Death. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship terminates by reason of the Optionee’s death, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date, to the extent exercisable on the date of death, may thereafter be exercised by the Optionee’s legal representative or legatee for a period of 12 months from the date of death or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of death shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

(b) Other Termination. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship terminates for any reason other than the Optionee’s death, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date may be exercised, to the extent exercisable on the date the Optionee’s Service Relationship terminates, for a period of six months from the date the Optionee’s Service Relationship terminates or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date the Optionee’s Service Relationship terminates shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

4. Incorporation of Plan. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Stock Option shall be subject to and governed by all the terms and conditions of the Plan, including the powers of the Administrator set forth in Section 2(b) of the Plan. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meaning specified in the Plan, unless a different meaning is specified herein.

 

5. Transferability. This Agreement is personal to the Optionee, is non-assignable and is not transferable in any manner, by operation of law or otherwise, other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. This Stock Option is exercisable, during the Optionee’s lifetime, only by the Optionee, and thereafter, only by the Optionee’s legal representative or legatee.

 

6. No Obligation to Continue Service Relationship. Neither the Plan nor this Stock Option confers upon the Optionee any rights with respect to continuance of Optionee’s Service Relationship.

 

7. Integration. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to this Stock Option and supersedes all prior agreements and discussions between the parties concerning such subject matter.

 

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8. Data Privacy Consent. In order to administer the Plan and this Agreement and to implement or structure future equity grants, the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and certain agents thereof (together, the “Relevant Companies”) may process any and all personal or professional data, including but not limited to Social Security or other identification number, home address and telephone number, date of birth and other information that is necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan and/or this Agreement (the “Relevant Information”). By entering into this Agreement, the Optionee (i) authorizes the Company to collect, process, register and transfer to the Relevant Companies all Relevant Information; (ii) waives any privacy rights the Optionee may have with respect to the Relevant Information; (iii) authorizes the Relevant Companies to store and transmit such information in electronic form; and (iv) authorizes the transfer of the Relevant Information to any jurisdiction in which the Relevant Companies consider appropriate. The Optionee shall have access to, and the right to change, the Relevant Information. Relevant Information will only be used in accordance with applicable law.

 

9. Notices. Notices hereunder shall be mailed or delivered to the Company at its principal place of business and shall be mailed or delivered to the Optionee at the address on file with the Company or, in either case, at such other address as one party may subsequently furnish to the other party in writing.

 

  Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.
     
  By:  
    Title:  

 

The foregoing Agreement is hereby accepted and the terms and conditions thereof hereby agreed to by the undersigned. Electronic acceptance of this Agreement pursuant to the Company’s instructions to the Optionee (including through an online acceptance process) is acceptable.

 

Dated:      
  Optionee’s Signature

 

      Optionee’s name and address:
       
       
       
       
       
       

 

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NON-QUALIFIED STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
FOR COMPANY EMPLOYEES
UNDER THE Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, INC.
2021 STOCK OPTION AND INCENTIVE PLAN

  

Name of Optionee:    
     
No. of Option Shares:    
   
Option Exercise Price per Share: $  
   

 

Grant Date:    
   
Expiration Date:    

 

Pursuant to the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan as amended through the date hereof (the “Plan”), Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby grants to the Optionee named above an option (the “Stock Option”) to purchase on or prior to the Expiration Date specified above all or part of the number of shares of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Stock”) of the Company specified above at the Option Exercise Price per Share specified above subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan. This Stock Option is not intended to be an “incentive stock option” under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

1. Exercisability Schedule. No portion of this Stock Option may be exercised until such portion shall have become exercisable. Except as set forth below, and subject to the discretion of the Administrator to accelerate the exercisability schedule hereunder, this Stock Option shall be exercisable with respect to the following number of Option Shares on the dates indicated so long as the Optionee continues to have a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary on such dates:

 

Incremental Number of
Option Shares Exercisable

  Exercisability Date
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________

 

Once exercisable, this Stock Option shall continue to be exercisable at any time or times prior to the close of business on the Expiration Date, subject to the provisions hereof and of the Plan.

 

10 

 

 

2. Manner of Exercise.

 

(a) The Optionee may exercise this Stock Option only in the following manner: from time to time on or prior to the Expiration Date of this Stock Option, the Optionee may give written notice to the Administrator of his or her election to purchase some or all of the Option Shares purchasable at the time of such notice. This notice shall specify the number of Option Shares to be purchased.

 

Payment of the purchase price for the Option Shares may be made by one or more of the following methods: (i) in cash, by certified or bank check or other instrument acceptable to the Administrator; (ii) through the delivery (or attestation to the ownership) of shares of Stock that have been purchased by the Optionee on the open market or that are beneficially owned by the Optionee and are not then subject to any restrictions under any Company plan and that otherwise satisfy any holding periods as may be required by the Administrator; (iii)  by the Optionee delivering to the Company a properly executed exercise notice together with irrevocable instructions to a broker to promptly deliver to the Company cash or a check payable and acceptable to the Company to pay the option purchase price, provided that in the event the Optionee chooses to pay the option purchase price as so provided, the Optionee and the broker shall comply with such procedures and enter into such agreements of indemnity and other agreements as the Administrator shall prescribe as a condition of such payment procedure; (iv)  by a “net exercise” arrangement pursuant to which the Company will reduce the number of shares of Stock issuable upon exercise by the largest whole number of shares with a Fair Market Value that does not exceed the aggregate exercise price; or (v) a combination of (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above. Payment instruments will be received subject to collection.

 

The transfer to the Optionee on the records of the Company or of the transfer agent of the Option Shares will be contingent upon (i) the Company’s receipt from the Optionee of the full purchase price for the Option Shares, as set forth above, (ii) the fulfillment of any other requirements contained herein or in the Plan or in any other agreement or provision of laws, and (iii) the receipt by the Company of any agreement, statement or other evidence that the Company may require to satisfy itself that the issuance of Stock to be purchased pursuant to the exercise of Stock Options under the Plan and any subsequent resale of the shares of Stock will be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. In the event the Optionee chooses to pay the purchase price by previously-owned shares of Stock through the attestation method, the number of shares of Stock transferred to the Optionee upon the exercise of the Stock Option shall be net of the Shares attested to.

 

(b) The shares of Stock purchased upon exercise of this Stock Option shall be transferred to the Optionee on the records of the Company or of the transfer agent upon compliance to the satisfaction of the Administrator with all requirements under applicable laws or regulations in connection with such transfer and with the requirements hereof and of the Plan. The determination of the Administrator as to such compliance shall be final and binding on the Optionee. The Optionee shall not be deemed to be the holder of, or to have any of the rights of a holder with respect to, any shares of Stock subject to this Stock Option unless and until this Stock Option shall have been exercised pursuant to the terms hereof, the Company or the transfer agent shall have transferred the shares to the Optionee, and the Optionee’s name shall have been entered as the stockholder of record on the books of the Company. Thereupon, the Optionee shall have full voting, dividend and other ownership rights with respect to such shares of Stock.

 

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision hereof or of the Plan, no portion of this Stock Option shall be exercisable after the Expiration Date hereof.

 

11 

 

 

3. Termination of Service Relationship. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary (as defined in the Plan) terminates, the period within which to exercise the Stock Option may be subject to earlier termination as set forth below.

 

(a) Termination Due to Death. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates by reason of the Optionee’s death, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date, to the extent exercisable on the date of death, may thereafter be exercised by the Optionee’s legal representative or legatee for a period of 12 months from the date of death or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of death shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

(b) Termination Due to Disability. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates by reason of the Optionee’s disability (as determined by the Administrator), any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date, to the extent exercisable on the date of such termination, may thereafter be exercised by the Optionee for a period of 12 months from the date of termination due to disability or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of termination due to disability shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

(c) Termination for Cause. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for Cause, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date shall terminate immediately and be of no further force and effect. For purposes hereof, “Cause” shall mean, unless otherwise provided in an employment or other service agreement between the Company and the Optionee, a determination by the Administrator that the Optionee shall be dismissed as a result of (i) any material breach by the Optionee of any agreement between the Optionee and the Company; (ii) the conviction of, indictment for or plea of nolo contendere by the Optionee to a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude; or (iii) any material misconduct or willful and deliberate non-performance (other than by reason of disability) by the Optionee of the Optionee’s duties to the Company.

 

(d) Other Termination. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for any reason other than the Optionee’s death, the Optionee’s disability or Cause, and unless otherwise determined by the Administrator, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date may be exercised, to the extent exercisable on the date of termination, for a period of three months from the date of termination or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of termination shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

The Administrator’s determination of the reason for termination of the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary shall be conclusive and binding on the Optionee and his or her representatives or legatees.

 

4. Incorporation of Plan. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Stock Option shall be subject to and governed by all the terms and conditions of the Plan, including the powers of the Administrator set forth in Section 2(b) of the Plan. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meaning specified in the Plan, unless a different meaning is specified herein.

 

12 

 

 

5. Transferability. This Agreement is personal to the Optionee, is non-assignable and is not transferable in any manner, by operation of law or otherwise, other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. This Stock Option is exercisable, during the Optionee’s lifetime, only by the Optionee, and thereafter, only by the Optionee’s legal representative or legatee.

 

6. Tax Withholding. The Optionee shall, not later than the date as of which the exercise of this Stock Option becomes a taxable event for Federal income tax purposes, pay to the Company or make arrangements satisfactory to the Administrator for payment of any Federal, state, and local taxes required by law to be withheld on account of such taxable event. The Company shall have the authority to cause the required tax withholding obligation to be satisfied, in whole or in part, by (i) withholding from shares of Stock to be issued to the Optionee a number of shares of Stock with an aggregate Fair Market Value that would satisfy the withholding amount due; or (ii) causing its transfer agent to sell from the number of shares of Stock to be issued to the Optionee, the number of shares of Stock necessary to satisfy the Federal, state and local taxes required by law to be withheld from the Optionee on account of such transfer.

 

7. No Obligation to Continue Service Relationship. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is obligated by or as a result of the Plan or this Agreement to continue the Optionee in a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary and neither the Plan nor this Agreement shall interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary at any time.

 

8. Integration. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to this Stock Option and supersedes all prior agreements and discussions between the parties concerning such subject matter.

 

9. Data Privacy Consent. In order to administer the Plan and this Agreement and to implement or structure future equity grants, the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and certain agents thereof (together, the “Relevant Companies”) may process any and all personal or professional data, including but not limited to Social Security or other identification number, home address and telephone number, date of birth and other information that is necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan and/or this Agreement (the “Relevant Information”). By entering into this Agreement, the Optionee (i) authorizes the Company to collect, process, register and transfer to the Relevant Companies all Relevant Information; (ii) waives any privacy rights the Optionee may have with respect to the Relevant Information; (iii) authorizes the Relevant Companies to store and transmit such information in electronic form; and (iv) authorizes the transfer of the Relevant Information to any jurisdiction in which the Relevant Companies consider appropriate. The Optionee shall have access to, and the right to change, the Relevant Information. Relevant Information will only be used in accordance with applicable law.

 

13 

 

 

10. Notices. Notices hereunder shall be mailed or delivered to the Company at its principal place of business and shall be mailed or delivered to the Optionee at the address on file with the Company or, in either case, at such other address as one party may subsequently furnish to the other party in writing.

 

  Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.
     
  By:  
    Title:  

 

The foregoing Agreement is hereby accepted and the terms and conditions thereof hereby agreed to by the undersigned. Electronic acceptance of this Agreement pursuant to the Company’s instructions to the Optionee (including through an online acceptance process) is acceptable.

 

Dated:      
  Optionee’s Signature
     
      Optionee’s name and address:
       
       
       
       
       
       

 

14 

 

 

NON-QUALIFIED STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
FOR COMPANY CONSULTANTS
UNDER THE CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.
2021 STOCK OPTION AND INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Name of Optionee:    
     
No. of Option Shares:    
     
Option Exercise Price per Share: $  
     
Grant Date:    
     
Vesting Commencement Date    
     
Expiration Date:    

 

Pursuant to the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan as amended through the date hereof (the “Plan”), Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby grants to the Optionee named above an option (the “Stock Option”) to purchase on or prior to the Expiration Date specified above all or part of the number of shares of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Stock”) of the Company specified above at the Option Exercise Price per Share specified above subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan. This Stock Option is not intended to be an “incentive stock option” under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

1. Exercisability Schedule. No portion of this Stock Option may be exercised until such portion shall have become exercisable. Except as set forth below, and subject to the discretion of the Administrator to accelerate the exercisability schedule hereunder, this Stock Option shall be exercisable as follows:

 

[_______________________________________], so long as Optionee continues to have a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary on such dates.

 

Once exercisable, this Stock Option shall continue to be exercisable at any time or times prior to the close of business on the Expiration Date, subject to the provisions hereof and of the Plan.

 

2. Manner of Exercise.

 

(a) The Optionee may exercise this Stock Option only in the following manner: from time to time on or prior to the Expiration Date of this Stock Option, the Optionee may give written notice to the Administrator of his or her election to purchase some or all of the Option Shares purchasable at the time of such notice. This notice shall specify the number of Option Shares to be purchased.

 

15 

 

 

Payment of the purchase price for the Option Shares may be made by one or more of the following methods: (i) in cash, by certified or bank check or other instrument acceptable to the Administrator; (ii) through the delivery (or attestation to the ownership) of shares of Stock that have been purchased by the Optionee on the open market or that are beneficially owned by the Optionee and are not then subject to any restrictions under any Company plan and that otherwise satisfy any holding periods as may be required by the Administrator; (iii) by the Optionee delivering to the Company a properly executed exercise notice together with irrevocable instructions to a broker to promptly deliver to the Company cash or a check payable and acceptable to the Company to pay the option purchase price, provided that in the event the Optionee chooses to pay the option purchase price as so provided, the Optionee and the broker shall comply with such procedures and enter into such agreements of indemnity and other agreements as the Administrator shall prescribe as a condition of such payment procedure; (iv) by a “net exercise” arrangement pursuant to which the Company will reduce the number of shares of Stock issuable upon exercise by the largest whole number of shares with a Fair Market Value that does not exceed the aggregate exercise price; or (v) a combination of (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above. Payment instruments will be received subject to collection.

 

The transfer to the Optionee on the records of the Company or of the transfer agent of the Option Shares will be contingent upon (i) the Company’s receipt from the Optionee of the full purchase price for the Option Shares, as set forth above, (ii) the fulfillment of any other requirements contained herein or in the Plan or in any other agreement or provision of laws, and (iii) the receipt by the Company of any agreement, statement or other evidence that the Company may require to satisfy itself that the issuance of Stock to be purchased pursuant to the exercise of Stock Options under the Plan and any subsequent resale of the shares of Stock will be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. In the event the Optionee chooses to pay the purchase price by previously-owned shares of Stock through the attestation method, the number of shares of Stock transferred to the Optionee upon the exercise of the Stock Option shall be net of the Shares attested to.

 

(b) The shares of Stock purchased upon exercise of this Stock Option shall be transferred to the Optionee on the records of the Company or of the transfer agent upon compliance to the satisfaction of the Administrator with all requirements under applicable laws or regulations in connection with such transfer and with the requirements hereof and of the Plan. The determination of the Administrator as to such compliance shall be final and binding on the Optionee. The Optionee shall not be deemed to be the holder of, or to have any of the rights of a holder with respect to, any shares of Stock subject to this Stock Option unless and until this Stock Option shall have been exercised pursuant to the terms hereof, the Company or the transfer agent shall have transferred the shares to the Optionee, and the Optionee’s name shall have been entered as the stockholder of record on the books of the Company. Thereupon, the Optionee shall have full voting, dividend and other ownership rights with respect to such shares of Stock.

 

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision hereof or of the Plan, no portion of this Stock Option shall be exercisable after the Expiration Date hereof.

 

16 

 

 

3. Termination of Service Relationship. Except as may otherwise be provided by the Administrator, if the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary (as defined in the Plan) is terminated, the period within which to exercise the Stock Option may be subject to earlier termination as set forth below.

 

(a) Termination Due to Death. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates by reason of the Optionee’s death, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date, to the extent exercisable on the date of death, may thereafter be exercised by the Optionee’s legal representative or legatee for a period of 12 months from the date of death or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of death shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

(b) Termination Due to Disability. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates by reason of the Optionee’s disability (as determined by the Administrator), any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date, to the extent exercisable on the date of such termination, may thereafter be exercised by the Optionee for a period of 12 months from the date the Optionee’s Service Relationship is terminated by reason of disability or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of the termination of the Optionee’s Service Relationship by reason of disability shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

(c) Termination for Cause. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for Cause, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date shall terminate immediately and be of no further force and effect. For purposes hereof, “Cause” shall mean, unless otherwise provided in a consulting or other service agreement between the Company and the Optionee, a determination by the Administrator that the Optionee shall be dismissed as a result of (i) any material breach by the Optionee of any agreement between the Optionee and the Company; (ii) the conviction of, indictment for or plea of nolo contendere by the Optionee to a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude; or (iii) any material misconduct or willful and deliberate non-performance (other than by reason of disability) by the Optionee of the Optionee’s duties to the Company.

 

(d) Other Termination. If the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for any reason other than the Optionee’s death, the Optionee’s disability or Cause, and unless otherwise determined by the Administrator, any portion of this Stock Option outstanding on such date may be exercised, to the extent exercisable on the date of termination, for a period of three months from the date of termination or until the Expiration Date, if earlier. Any portion of this Stock Option that is not exercisable on the date of termination shall terminate immediately and be of no further force or effect.

 

The Administrator’s determination of the reason for termination of the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary shall be conclusive and binding on the Optionee and his or her representatives or legatees.

 

17 

 

 

4. Incorporation of Plan. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Stock Option shall be subject to and governed by all the terms and conditions of the Plan, including the powers of the Administrator set forth in Section 2(b) of the Plan. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meaning specified in the Plan, unless a different meaning is specified herein.

 

5. Transferability. This Agreement is personal to the Optionee, is non-assignable and is not transferable in any manner, by operation of law or otherwise, other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. This Stock Option is exercisable, during the Optionee’s lifetime, only by the Optionee, and thereafter, only by the Optionee’s legal representative or legatee.

 

6. No Obligation to Continue Service Relationship. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is obligated by or as a result of the Plan or this Agreement to continue the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary and neither the Plan nor this Agreement shall interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate the Optionee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary at any time.

 

7. Integration. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to this Stock Option and supersedes all prior agreements and discussions between the parties concerning such subject matter.

 

8. Data Privacy Consent. In order to administer the Plan and this Agreement and to implement or structure future equity grants, the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and certain agents thereof (together, the “Relevant Companies”) may process any and all personal or professional data, including but not limited to Social Security or other identification number, home address and telephone number, date of birth and other information that is necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan and/or this Agreement (the “Relevant Information”). By entering into this Agreement, the Optionee (i) authorizes the Company to collect, process, register and transfer to the Relevant Companies all Relevant Information; (ii) waives any privacy rights the Optionee may have with respect to the Relevant Information; (iii) authorizes the Relevant Companies to store and transmit such information in electronic form; and (iv) authorizes the transfer of the Relevant Information to any jurisdiction in which the Relevant Companies consider appropriate. The Optionee shall have access to, and the right to change, the Relevant Information. Relevant Information will only be used in accordance with applicable law.

 

18 

 

 

9. Notices. Notices hereunder shall be mailed or delivered to the Company at its principal place of business and shall be mailed or delivered to the Optionee at the address on file with the Company or, in either case, at such other address as one party may subsequently furnish to the other party in writing.

 

  Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.   
 
  By:               
    Title:

 

The foregoing Agreement is hereby accepted and the terms and conditions thereof hereby agreed to by the undersigned. Electronic acceptance of this Agreement pursuant to the Company’s instructions to the Optionee (including through an online acceptance process) is acceptable.

 

Dated:      
      Optionee’s Signature
       
      Optionee’s name and address:
       
       
       
       
       

 

19 

 

 

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT
FOR NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS
UNDER THE Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, INC.
2021 STOCK OPTION AND INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Name of Grantee:  
     
No. of Restricted Stock Units:  
     
Grant Date:  

 

Pursuant to the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan as amended through the date hereof (the “Plan”), Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby grants an award of the number of Restricted Stock Units listed above (an “Award”) to the Grantee named above. Each Restricted Stock Unit shall relate to one share of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Stock”), of the Company.

 

1. Restrictions on Transfer of Award. This Award may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned or otherwise encumbered or disposed of by the Grantee, and any shares of Stock issuable with respect to the Award may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned or otherwise encumbered or disposed of until (i) the Restricted Stock Units have vested as provided in Paragraph 2 of this Agreement and (ii) shares of Stock have been issued to the Grantee in accordance with the terms of the Plan and this Agreement.

 

2. Vesting of Restricted Stock Units. The restrictions and conditions of Paragraph 1 of this Agreement shall lapse on the Vesting Date or Dates specified in the following schedule so long as the Grantee remains in a continued Service Relationship on such Vesting Dates. If a series of Vesting Dates is specified, then the restrictions and conditions in Paragraph 1 shall lapse only with respect to the number of Restricted Stock Units specified as vested on such date.

 

 Incremental Number of
Restricted Stock Units Vested
  Vesting Date
_____________ (___%)   _______________
_____________ (___%)   _______________
_____________ (___%)   _______________
_____________ (___%)   _______________

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of a Sale Event, 100% of the then-outstanding and unvested Restricted Stock Units shall immediately be deemed vested on the date of such Sale Event; provided, that the Grantee remains in a continued Service Relationship until the date of such Sale Event. The Administrator may at any time accelerate the vesting schedule specified in this Paragraph 2.

 

20 

 

 

3. Termination of Service. If the Grantee’s service with the Company and its Subsidiaries terminates for any reason (including death or disability) prior to the satisfaction of the vesting conditions set forth in Paragraph 2 above, any Restricted Stock Units that have not vested as of such date shall automatically and without notice terminate and be forfeited, and neither the Grantee nor any of his or her successors, heirs, assigns, or personal representatives will thereafter have any further rights or interests in such unvested Restricted Stock Units.

 

4. Issuance of Shares of Stock. As soon as practicable following each Vesting Date (but in no event later than two and one-half months after the end of the year in which the Vesting Date occurs), the Company shall issue to the Grantee the number of shares of Stock equal to the aggregate number of Restricted Stock Units that have vested pursuant to Paragraph 2 of this Agreement on such date and the Grantee shall thereafter have all the rights of a stockholder of the Company with respect to such shares.

 

5. Incorporation of Plan. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Agreement shall be subject to and governed by all the terms and conditions of the Plan, including the powers of the Administrator set forth in Section 2(b) of the Plan. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meaning specified in the Plan, unless a different meaning is specified herein.

 

6. Section 409A of the Code. This Agreement shall be interpreted in such a manner that all provisions relating to the settlement of the Award are exempt from the requirements of Section 409A of the Code as “short-term deferrals” as described in Section 409A of the Code.

 

7. No Obligation to Continue Service Relationship. Neither the Plan nor this Award confers upon the Grantee any rights with respect to continuance of the Grantee’s Service Relationship.

 

8. Integration. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to this Award and supersedes all prior agreements and discussions between the parties concerning such subject matter.

 

9. Data Privacy Consent. In order to administer the Plan and this Agreement and to implement or structure future equity grants, the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and certain agents thereof (together, the “Relevant Companies”) may process any and all personal or professional data, including but not limited to Social Security or other identification number, home address and telephone number, date of birth and other information that is necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan and/or this Agreement (the “Relevant Information”). By entering into this Agreement, the Grantee (i) authorizes the Company to collect, process, register and transfer to the Relevant Companies all Relevant Information; (ii) waives any privacy rights the Grantee may have with respect to the Relevant Information; (iii) authorizes the Relevant Companies to store and transmit such information in electronic form; and (iv) authorizes the transfer of the Relevant Information to any jurisdiction in which the Relevant Companies consider appropriate. The Grantee shall have access to, and the right to change, the Relevant Information. Relevant Information will only be used in accordance with applicable law.

 

21 

 

 

10. Notices. Notices hereunder shall be mailed or delivered to the Company at its principal place of business and shall be mailed or delivered to the Grantee at the address on file with the Company or, in either case, at such other address as one party may subsequently furnish to the other party in writing.

 

  Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.
     
  By:  
    Title:

 

The foregoing Agreement is hereby accepted and the terms and conditions thereof hereby agreed to by the undersigned. Electronic acceptance of this Agreement pursuant to the Company’s instructions to the Grantee (including through an online acceptance process) is acceptable.

 

Dated:    
      Grantee’s Signature
       
      Grantee’s name and address:
       
       
       
       
       

 

22 

 

 

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT
FOR COMPANY EMPLOYEES
UNDER THE Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, INC.
2021 STOCK OPTION AND INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Name of Grantee:    
     
No. of Restricted Stock Units:    
     
Grant Date:    

 

 

Pursuant to the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan as amended through the date hereof (the “Plan”), Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby grants an award of the number of Restricted Stock Units listed above (an “Award”) to the Grantee named above. Each Restricted Stock Unit shall relate to one share of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Stock”), of the Company.

 

1. Restrictions on Transfer of Award. This Award may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned or otherwise encumbered or disposed of by the Grantee, and any shares of Stock issuable with respect to the Award may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned or otherwise encumbered or disposed of until (i) the Restricted Stock Units have vested as provided in Paragraph 2 of this Agreement and (ii) shares of Stock have been issued to the Grantee in accordance with the terms of the Plan and this Agreement.

 

2. Vesting of Restricted Stock Units. The restrictions and conditions of Paragraph 1 of this Agreement shall lapse on the Vesting Date or Dates specified in the following schedule so long as the Grantee continues to have a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary on such Vesting Dates. If a series of Vesting Dates is specified, then the restrictions and conditions in Paragraph 1 shall lapse only with respect to the number of Restricted Stock Units specified as vested on such date.

 

Incremental Number of
Restricted Stock Units Vested

  Vesting Date
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________

 

The Administrator may at any time accelerate the vesting schedule specified in this Paragraph 2.

 

3. Termination of Service Relationship. If the Grantee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for any reason (including death or disability) prior to the satisfaction of the vesting conditions set forth in Paragraph 2 above, any Restricted Stock Units that have not vested as of such date shall automatically and without notice terminate and be forfeited, and neither the Grantee nor any of his or her successors, heirs, assigns, or personal representatives will thereafter have any further rights or interests in such unvested Restricted Stock Units.

 

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4. Issuance of Shares of Stock. As soon as practicable following each Vesting Date (but in no event later than two and one-half months after the end of the year in which the Vesting Date occurs), the Company shall issue to the Grantee the number of shares of Stock equal to the aggregate number of Restricted Stock Units that have vested pursuant to Paragraph 2 of this Agreement on such date and the Grantee shall thereafter have all the rights of a stockholder of the Company with respect to such shares.

 

5. Incorporation of Plan. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Agreement shall be subject to and governed by all the terms and conditions of the Plan, including the powers of the Administrator set forth in Section 2(b) of the Plan. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meaning specified in the Plan, unless a different meaning is specified herein.

 

6. Tax Withholding. The Grantee shall, not later than the date as of which the receipt of this Award becomes a taxable event for Federal income tax purposes, pay to the Company or make arrangements satisfactory to the Administrator for payment of any Federal, state, and local taxes required by law to be withheld on account of such taxable event. The Company shall have the authority to cause the required tax withholding obligation to be satisfied, in whole or in part, by (i) withholding from shares of Stock to be issued to the Grantee a number of shares of Stock with an aggregate Fair Market Value that would satisfy the withholding amount due; or (ii) causing its transfer agent to sell from the number of shares of Stock to be issued to the Grantee, the number of shares of Stock necessary to satisfy the Federal, state and local taxes required by law to be withheld from the Grantee on account of such transfer.

 

7. Section 409A of the Code. This Agreement shall be interpreted in such a manner that all provisions relating to the settlement of the Award are exempt from the requirements of Section 409A of the Code as “short-term deferrals” as described in Section 409A of the Code.

 

8. No Obligation to Continue Service Relationship. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is obligated by or as a result of the Plan or this Agreement to continue the Grantee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary and neither the Plan nor this Agreement shall interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate the Grantee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary at any time.

 

9. Integration. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to this Award and supersedes all prior agreements and discussions between the parties concerning such subject matter.

 

10. Data Privacy Consent. In order to administer the Plan and this Agreement and to implement or structure future equity grants, the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and certain agents thereof (together, the “Relevant Companies”) may process any and all personal or professional data, including but not limited to Social Security or other identification number, home address and telephone number, date of birth and other information that is necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan and/or this Agreement (the “Relevant Information”). By entering into this Agreement, the Grantee (i) authorizes the Company to collect, process, register and transfer to the Relevant Companies all Relevant Information; (ii) waives any privacy rights the Grantee may have with respect to the Relevant Information; (iii) authorizes the Relevant Companies to store and transmit such information in electronic form; and (iv) authorizes the transfer of the Relevant Information to any jurisdiction in which the Relevant Companies consider appropriate. The Grantee shall have access to, and the right to change, the Relevant Information. Relevant Information will only be used in accordance with applicable law.

 

24 

 

 

11. Notices. Notices hereunder shall be mailed or delivered to the Company at its principal place of business and shall be mailed or delivered to the Grantee at the address on file with the Company or, in either case, at such other address as one party may subsequently furnish to the other party in writing.

 

  Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.
     
  By:  
    Title:  

 

The foregoing Agreement is hereby accepted and the terms and conditions thereof hereby agreed to by the undersigned. Electronic acceptance of this Agreement pursuant to the Company’s instructions to the Grantee (including through an online acceptance process) is acceptable.

 

Dated:    
      Grantee’s Signature
       
      Grantee’s name and address:
       
       
       
       
       

 

25 

 

 

RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT

UNDER THE Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, INC.

2021 STOCK OPTION AND INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Name of Grantee:  
     
No. of Shares:  
     
Grant Date:  

 

Pursuant to the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) as amended through the date hereof, Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby grants a Restricted Stock Award (an “Award”) to the Grantee named above. Upon acceptance of this Award, the Grantee shall receive the number of shares of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Stock”), of the Company specified above, subject to the restrictions and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan. The Company acknowledges the receipt from the Grantee of consideration with respect to the par value of the Stock in the form of cash, past or future services rendered to the Company by the Grantee or such other form of consideration as is acceptable to the Administrator.

 

1. Award. The shares of Restricted Stock awarded hereunder shall be issued and held by the Company’s transfer agent in book entry form, and the Grantee’s name shall be entered as the stockholder of record on the books of the Company. Thereupon, the Grantee shall have all the rights of a stockholder with respect to such shares, including voting and dividend rights, subject, however, to the restrictions and conditions specified in Paragraph 2 below. The Grantee shall (i) sign and deliver to the Company a copy of this Award Agreement and (ii) deliver to the Company a stock power endorsed in blank.

 

2. Restrictions and Conditions.

 

(a) Any book entries for the shares of Restricted Stock granted herein shall bear an appropriate legend, as determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion, to the effect that such shares are subject to restrictions as set forth herein and in the Plan.

 

(b) Shares of Restricted Stock granted herein may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged or otherwise encumbered or disposed of by the Grantee prior to vesting.

 

(c) If the Grantee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary is voluntarily or involuntarily terminated for any reason (including death) prior to vesting of shares of Restricted Stock granted herein, all shares of Restricted Stock shall immediately and automatically be forfeited and returned to the Company.

 

3. Vesting of Restricted Stock. The restrictions and conditions in Paragraph 2 of this Agreement shall lapse on the Vesting Date or Dates specified in the following schedule so long as the Grantee continues to have a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary on such Dates. If a series of Vesting Dates is specified, then the restrictions and conditions in Paragraph 2 shall lapse only with respect to the number of shares of Restricted Stock specified as vested on such date.

 

Incremental Number
of Shares Vested

  Vesting Date
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________

 

26 

 

 

Subsequent to such Vesting Date or Dates, the shares of Stock on which all restrictions and conditions have lapsed shall no longer be deemed Restricted Stock. The Administrator may at any time accelerate the vesting schedule specified in this Paragraph 3.

 

4. Dividends. Dividends on shares of Restricted Stock shall be paid currently to the Grantee.

 

5. Incorporation of Plan. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Award shall be subject to and governed by all the terms and conditions of the Plan, including the powers of the Administrator set forth in Section 2(b) of the Plan. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meaning specified in the Plan, unless a different meaning is specified herein.

 

6. Transferability. This Agreement is personal to the Grantee, is non-assignable and is not transferable in any manner, by operation of law or otherwise, other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution.

 

7. Tax Withholding. The Grantee shall, not later than the date as of which the receipt of this Award becomes a taxable event for Federal income tax purposes, pay to the Company or make arrangements satisfactory to the Administrator for payment of any Federal, state, and local taxes required by law to be withheld on account of such taxable event. Except in the case where an election is made pursuant to Paragraph 8 below, the Company shall have the authority to cause the required tax withholding obligation to be satisfied, in whole or in part, by (i) withholding from shares of Stock to be issued or released by the transfer agent a number of shares of Stock with an aggregate Fair Market Value that would satisfy the withholding amount due; or (ii) causing its transfer agent to sell from the number of shares of Stock to be issued or released to the Grantee, the number of shares of Stock necessary to satisfy the Federal, state and local taxes required by law to be withheld from the Grantee on account of such transfer.

 

8. Election Under Section 83(b). The Grantee and the Company hereby agree that the Grantee may, within 30 days following the Grant Date of this Award, file with the Internal Revenue Service and the Company an election under Section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code. In the event the Grantee makes such an election, he or she agrees to provide a copy of the election to the Company. The Grantee acknowledges that he or she is responsible for obtaining the advice of his or her tax advisors with regard to the Section 83(b) election and that he or she is relying solely on such advisors and not on any statements or representations of the Company or any of its agents with regard to such election.

 

27 

 

 

9. No Obligation to Continue Service Relationship. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is obligated by or as a result of the Plan or this Agreement to continue the Grantee in a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary and neither the Plan nor this Agreement shall interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate the Grantee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary at any time.

 

10. Integration. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to this Award and supersedes all prior agreements and discussions between the parties concerning such subject matter.

 

11. Data Privacy Consent. In order to administer the Plan and this Agreement and to implement or structure future equity grants, the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and certain agents thereof (together, the “Relevant Companies”) may process any and all personal or professional data, including but not limited to Social Security or other identification number, home address and telephone number, date of birth and other information that is necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan and/or this Agreement (the “Relevant Information”). By entering into this Agreement, the Grantee (i) authorizes the Company to collect, process, register and transfer to the Relevant Companies all Relevant Information; (ii) waives any privacy rights the Grantee may have with respect to the Relevant Information; (iii) authorizes the Relevant Companies to store and transmit such information in electronic form; and (iv) authorizes the transfer of the Relevant Information to any jurisdiction in which the Relevant Companies consider appropriate. The Grantee shall have access to, and the right to change, the Relevant Information. Relevant Information will only be used in accordance with applicable law.

 

28 

 

 

12. Notices. Notices hereunder shall be mailed or delivered to the Company at its principal place of business and shall be mailed or delivered to the Grantee at the address on file with the Company or, in either case, at such other address as one party may subsequently furnish to the other party in writing.

 

  Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.
       
  By:  
    Title:  

 

The foregoing Agreement is hereby accepted and the terms and conditions thereof hereby agreed to by the undersigned. Electronic acceptance of this Agreement pursuant to the Company’s instructions to the Grantee (including through an online acceptance process) is acceptable.

 

Dated:    
      Grantee’s Signature
       
      Grantee’s name and address:
       
       
       
       
       

 

29 

 

 

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

FOR CONSULTANTS

UNDER THE CLARUS THERAPEUTICS HOLDINGS, INC.

2021 STOCK OPTION AND INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Name of Grantee:  
     
No. of Restricted Stock Units:  
     
Grant Date:  
     
Vesting Commencement Date:  

 

Pursuant to the Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan as amended through the date hereof (the “Plan”), Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby grants an award of the number of Restricted Stock Units listed above (an “Award”) to the Grantee named above. Each Restricted Stock Unit shall relate to one share of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Stock”) of the Company.

 

1. Restrictions on Transfer of Award. This Award may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned or otherwise encumbered or disposed of by the Grantee, and any shares of Stock issuable with respect to the Award may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned or otherwise encumbered or disposed of until (i) the Restricted Stock Units have vested as provided in Paragraph 2 of this Agreement and (ii) shares of Stock have been issued to the Grantee in accordance with the terms of the Plan and this Agreement.

 

2. Vesting of Restricted Stock Units. The restrictions and conditions of Paragraph 1 of this Agreement shall lapse on the Vesting Date or Dates specified in the following schedule so long as the Grantee continues to have a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary on such Dates. If a series of Vesting Dates is specified, then the restrictions and conditions in Paragraph 1 shall lapse only with respect to the number of Restricted Stock Units specified as vested on such date.

 

Incremental Number of
Restricted Stock Units Vested

  Vesting Date
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________
_____________ (___%)   ____________

 

The Administrator may at any time accelerate the vesting schedule specified in this Paragraph 2.

 

30 

 

 

3. Termination of Service Relationship. If the Grantee’s Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for any reason (including death or disability) prior to the satisfaction of the vesting conditions set forth in Paragraph 2 above, any Restricted Stock Units that have not vested as of such date shall automatically and without notice terminate and be forfeited, and neither the Grantee nor any of his or her successors, heirs, assigns, or personal representatives will thereafter have any further rights or interests in such unvested Restricted Stock Units.

 

4. Issuance of Shares of Stock. As soon as practicable following each Vesting Date (but in no event later than two and one-half months after the end of the year in which the Vesting Date occurs), the Company shall issue to the Grantee the number of shares of Stock equal to the aggregate number of Restricted Stock Units that have vested pursuant to Paragraph 2 of this Agreement on such date and the Grantee shall thereafter have all the rights of a stockholder of the Company with respect to such shares.

 

5. Incorporation of Plan. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Agreement shall be subject to and governed by all the terms and conditions of the Plan, including the powers of the Administrator set forth in Section 2(b) of the Plan. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meaning specified in the Plan, unless a different meaning is specified herein.

 

6. Section 409A of the Code. This Agreement shall be interpreted in such a manner that all provisions relating to the settlement of the Award are exempt from the requirements of Section 409A of the Code as “short-term deferrals” as described in Section 409A of the Code.

 

7. No Obligation to Continue Service Relationship. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is obligated by or as a result of the Plan or this Agreement to continue the Grantee in a Service Relationship with the Company or a Subsidiary and neither the Plan nor this Agreement shall interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate the Service Relationship of the Grantee at any time.

 

8. Integration. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to this Award and supersedes all prior agreements and discussions between the parties concerning such subject matter.

 

9. Data Privacy Consent. In order to administer the Plan and this Agreement and to implement or structure future equity grants, the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and certain agents thereof (together, the “Relevant Companies”) may process any and all personal or professional data, including but not limited to Social Security or other identification number, home address and telephone number, date of birth and other information that is necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan and/or this Agreement (the “Relevant Information”). By entering into this Agreement, the Grantee (i) authorizes the Company to collect, process, register and transfer to the Relevant Companies all Relevant Information; (ii) waives any privacy rights the Grantee may have with respect to the Relevant Information; (iii) authorizes the Relevant Companies to store and transmit such information in electronic form; and (iv) authorizes the transfer of the Relevant Information to any jurisdiction in which the Relevant Companies consider appropriate. The Grantee shall have access to, and the right to change, the Relevant Information. Relevant Information will only be used in accordance with applicable law.

 

31 

 

 

10. Notices. Notices hereunder shall be mailed or delivered to the Company at its principal place of business and shall be mailed or delivered to the Grantee at the address on file with the Company or, in either case, at such other address as one party may subsequently furnish to the other party in writing.

 

  Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.
       
  By:  
    Title:  

 

The foregoing Agreement is hereby accepted and the terms and conditions thereof hereby agreed to by the undersigned. Electronic acceptance of this Agreement pursuant to the Company’s instructions to the Grantee (including through an online acceptance process) is acceptable.

 

Dated:    
      Grantee’s Signature
       
      Grantee’s name and address:
       
       
       
       
       
       

 

32 

 

Exhibit 10.15

 

EXECUTION VERSION

 

 

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.

 

to

 

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

 

as Trustee and as Collateral Agent

 

 

 

Supplemental Indenture No. 2
Dated as of September 9, 2021

 

 

 

Supplemental to the Indenture dated as of March 12, 2020
Relating to the 12.5% Senior Secured Notes due 2025

 

 

 

Providing for Certain Amendments to said Indenture

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental Indenture No. 2

 

This SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE No. 2 dated as of September 9, 2021 is between Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation with an address at 555 Skokie Boulevard, Suite 340, Northbrook, Illinois 60062 (the “Issuer”), and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (the “Trustee”) and as collateral agent (the “Collateral Agent”). This Supplemental Indenture No. 2 supplements and amends that certain Indenture dated as of March 12, 2020 among the Issuer, the Trustee and the Collateral Agent, as amended and supplemented by Supplemental Indenture No. 1 dated as of May 27, 2021 from the Issuer to the Trustee and the Collateral Agent (as so supplemented and amended, the “Original Indenture”). The Original Indenture and any and all indentures and instruments supplemental thereto (including this Supplemental Indenture No. 2) are hereinafter sometimes collectively called the “Indenture”.

 

RECITALS OF THE ISSUER

 

WHEREAS, the Original Indenture was authorized, executed and delivered by the Issuer to provide for the issuance from time to time of the Securities (such term and all other capitalized terms used herein without definition having the respective meanings assigned to them in the Original Indenture);

 

WHEREAS, the Issuer desires to amend certain provisions of the Original Indenture as set forth in this Supplemental Indenture No. 2;

 

WHEREAS, there are no Guarantors currently a party to the Original Indenture;

 

WHEREAS, Section 9.02 of the Original Indenture permits the Issuer, the Collateral Agent, the Guarantors and the Trustee to amend or supplement the Original Indenture with the written consent of the Holders of the requisite principal amount of the Securities then outstanding voting as a single class;

 

WHEREAS, the Issuer has obtained the written consent of the Holders of 100% of the principal amount of the Securities currently outstanding voting as a single class to the amendment of the provisions of the Original Indenture as set forth in this Supplemental Indenture No. 2 (as evidenced by an Officer’s Certificate and Opinion of Counsel delivered to the Trustee);

 

WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain direction letter dated as of September 9, 2021, among other things, Holders of 100% of the principal amount of the Securities currently outstanding directed the Trustee pursuant to Section 6.05 of the Original Indenture to execute this Supplemental Indenture No. 2 and the Trustee accepted such direction pursuant to the terms and conditions provided therein; and

 

WHEREAS, the Issuer has satisfied the other conditions set forth in the Original Indenture to the valid execution and delivery of this Supplemental Indenture No. 2 by the Issuer, the Collateral Agent and the Trustee;

 

1

 

 

NOW, THEREFORE, THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE NO. 2 WITNESSETH, that, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, it is mutually covenanted and agreed as follows:

 

ARTICLE One

 

SECTION 1.01. The following definition of “Minimum Amount” is hereby added to Section 1.01 of the Original Indenture in the appropriate alphabetical order as follows:

 

“Minimum Amount” shall mean $8,000,000; provided, however, if Parent publicly announces that, on a consolidated basis, it had net product revenues for any fiscal quarterly period, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2021, that equaled or exceeded Parent’s publicly announced guidance with respect to net product revenues for such fiscal quarterly period, “Minimum Amount” shall mean $6,000,000; provided, further, however, if Parent publicly announces that, on a consolidated basis, it had net product revenues for any two consecutive fiscal quarterly periods, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2021, that equaled or exceeded Parent’s publicly announced guidance with respect to net product revenues for each such consecutive fiscal quarterly period, “Minimum Amount” shall mean $4,000,000.

 

SECTION 1.02. The following definition of “Parent” is hereby added to Section 1.01 of the Original Indenture in the appropriate alphabetical order as follows:

 

“Parent” means Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

 

SECTION 1.03. Clause (13) of the definition of “Permitted Investments” in Section 1.01 of the Original Indenture is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

(13) Investments consisting of the non-exclusive licensing to a third party in the ordinary course of the Issuer’s business to research, develop, make, have made, use, access or import Intellectual Property (including JATENZO®) so long as such non-exclusive license does not grant to any third party the right to sell, offer for sale, market or promote such Intellectual Property (including JATENZO®);

 

SECTION 1.04. Clause (15) of the definition of “Permitted Investments” in Section 1.01 of the Original Indenture is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

(15) Investments consisting of or to finance purchases and acquisitions of inventory, supplies, materials, services or equipment or purchases of contract rights or non-exclusive or exclusive licenses or leases of Intellectual Property (where the Issuer or an applicable Restricted Subsidiary is the licensee or lessee), in each case in the ordinary course of business;

 

SECTION 1.05. Clause (22) of the definition of “Permitted Investments” in Section 1.01 of the Original Indenture is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

(22) Investments by the Issuer or its Restricted Subsidiaries consisting of deposits, prepayments, minimum payments or other credits to rebate program administrators, suppliers or landlords, and guarantees of business obligations, binding forecasts and purchase commitments, in each case, to suppliers, landlords, customers, or licensees of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries; and

 

SECTION 1.06. Clause (18) of the definition of “Permitted Liens” in Section 1.01 of the Original Indenture is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

(18) any non-exclusive license to a third party in the ordinary course of the Issuer’s business to research, develop, make, have made, use, access or import Intellectual Property (including JATENZO®) so long as such non-exclusive license does not grant to any third party the right to sell, offer for sale, market or promote such Intellectual Property (including JATENZO®);

 

2

 

 

SECTION 1.07. The first paragraph of Section 4.01(b) of the Original Indenture (exclusive of the table therein) is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:

 

On each Payment Date, commencing on September 1, 2022, or on the succeeding Business Day if any such date is not a Business Day, the Issuer shall pay to the Holders an installment of principal of the Securities in accordance with the table below corresponding to the applicable Payment Date, where the applicable percentage is the percentage of (i) the initial aggregate principal amount of Original Securities issued on the Issue Date plus (ii) the initial aggregate principal amount of any Additional Securities issued on their date of issuance plus (iii) the initial aggregate principal amount of any Second Additional Securities issued on their date of issuance minus (iv) the aggregate principal amount of Securities redeemed or repurchased pursuant to this Indenture, or exchanged or converted pursuant to the Transaction Support Agreement, prior to such Payment Date:

 

SECTION 1.08. Section 4.02(h) of the Original Indenture is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:

 

(h) The Issuer shall give written notice to the Trustee and, in accordance with and subject to the provisions of Section 4.02(k), each Holder (in accordance with and subject to the provisions of Section 4.02(k)) within five Business Days after the end of each calendar month, commencing with September 30, 2021, certifying as to the amount of aggregate Cash Equivalents that the Issuer and the Guarantors, on a consolidated basis, had maintained as of the end of such calendar month (together with a copy of bank account statements as of or about 5:00 p.m. New York City time on the last day of such calendar month evidencing such amount of aggregate Cash Equivalents).

 

SECTION 1.09. Section 4.04(b)(vii) of the Original Indenture is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:

 

(vii) other Restricted Payments in an aggregate amount not to exceed $500,000;

 

SECTION 1.10. Section 4.19 of the Original Indenture is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:

 

SECTION 4.19. Liquidity. The Issuer, on a consolidated basis, shall maintain, as of the last day of each calendar month, commencing with September 30, 2021, aggregate Cash Equivalents in the amount of at least the Minimum Amount; provided, however, that the Issuer shall have ten Business Days to cure any failure to maintain aggregate Cash Equivalents in the amount of at least the Minimum Amount as of the last day of such calendar month before it will be considered to be a Default by providing written notice of compliance with such covenant within such ten Business Day period consistent with the requirements of Section 4.02(h) of the Indenture (except that such written notice shall be delivered within two Business Days after the end of such ten Business Day period and notwithstanding the prior failure to comply with this Section 4.19 as of the last day of the immediately preceding calendar month).

 

3

 

 

SECTION 1.11. The first paragraph of Paragraph 1(f) of each of the Securities (and the form of Security attached as Exhibit A to the Original Indenture) (exclusive of the table therein) is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:

 

On each Payment Date, commencing on September 1, 2022, or on the succeeding Business Day if any such date is not a Business Day, the Issuer shall pay to the Holders an installment of principal of the Securities in accordance with the table below corresponding to the applicable Payment Date, where the applicable percentage is the percentage of (i) the initial aggregate principal amount of Original Securities issued on the Issue Date plus (ii) the initial aggregate principal amount of any Additional Securities issued on their date of issuance plus (iii) the initial aggregate principal amount of any Second Additional Securities issued on their date of issuance minus (iv) the aggregate principal amount of Securities redeemed or repurchased pursuant to the Indenture, or exchanged or converted pursuant to the Transaction Support Agreement, prior to such Payment Date:

 

SECTION 1.12. The first sentence of paragraph 4 of each of the Securities (and the form of Security attached as Exhibit A to the Original Indenture) is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

The Issuer issued the Securities under the Indenture dated as of March 12, 2020 (as amended from time to time, including by Supplemental Indenture No. 1 thereto dated as of May 27, 2021 and by Supplemental Indenture No. 2 thereto dated as of September 9, 2021, the “Indenture”) among the Issuer, the guarantors that may be party thereto from time to time, the Trustee and the Collateral Agent.

 

SECTION 1.13.

 

(i) As replacements for (a) the Rule 144A Global Security registered as No. A-2 (with CUSIP No. 182717 AA6 and ISIN No. US182717AA65) in the initial aggregate principal amount of $50,000,000 and the Regulation S Global Security registered as No. S-2 (with CUSIP No. U1793R AA4 and ISIN No. USU1793RAA42) in the initial aggregate principal amount of $0 and (b) the Rule 144A Global Security registered as No. A-3 (with CUSIP No. 182717 AC2 and ISIN No. US182717AC22) in the initial aggregate principal amount of $3,125,000 and the Regulation S Global Security registered as No. S-3 (with CUSIP No. U1793R AB2 and ISIN No. USU1793RAB25) in the initial aggregate principal amount of $0 (collectively, the “Existing Global Securities”), the Issuer requests that the Trustee authenticate on the date hereof two Rule 144A Global Securities and two Regulation S Global Securities (collectively, the “New Global Securities”), each registered in the name of Cede & Co., the nominee of The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”), heretofore duly executed by the proper officers of the Issuer and delivered to the Trustee on the date hereof, and to hold such New Global Securities, when so authenticated and registered, as custodian for DTC, as follows:

 

Certificate No. A-6 (with CUSIP No. 182717 AA6 and ISIN No. US182717AA65): $50,000,000

 

Certificate No. S-6 (with CUSIP No. U1793R AA4 and ISIN No. USU1793RAA42): $0

 

Certificate No. A-7 (with CUSIP No. 182717 AC2 and ISIN No. US182717AC22): $3,125,000

 

Certificate No. S-7 (with CUSIP No. U1793R AB2 and ISIN No. USU1793RAB25): $0

 

(ii) After authenticating and registering the New Global Securities pursuant to Section 1.13(i) hereof, the Issuer requests that the Trustee cancel and dispose of the Existing Global Securities in accordance with its standard procedures and register such cancellation on the books and records of the Trustee.

 

4

 

 

SECTION 1.14.

 

(i) Without prejudice to the terms of this Supplemental Indenture No. 2, the Issuer confirms that the security created by or pursuant to the Security Documents remains in full force and effect and continues to secure the Obligations.

 

(ii) Without prejudice to the terms of the Security Documents, the Issuer confirms that the security created by or pursuant to the Security Documents extends to secure the Obligations as amended or supplemented by the terms of this Supplemental Indenture No. 2.

 

ARTICLE Two

 

SECTION 2.01. This Supplemental Indenture No. 2 is a supplement to the Original Indenture. As supplemented by this Supplemental Indenture No. 2, the Original Indenture is in all respects ratified, approved and confirmed, and the Original Indenture and this Supplemental Indenture No. 2 shall together constitute the Indenture. This Supplemental Indenture No. 2 shall in no way be construed or interpreted as an extinctive novation of any of the obligations or agreements of the Issuer set forth in the Original Indenture.

 

SECTION 2.02. Sections 12.01, 12.07, 12.09, 12.10, 12.11, 12.12, 12.13 and 12.15 of the Original Indenture shall be applicable to this Supplemental Indenture No. 2, as though fully set forth herein. The words “execution”, “signed” and “signature” and words of like import in this Supplemental Indenture No. 2 or in any other certificate, agreement or document related to this Supplemental Indenture No. 2 shall include images of manually executed signatures transmitted by facsimile or other electronic format (including “pdf”, “tif” or “jpg”) and other electronic signatures (including DocuSign and AdobeSign, or such other digital signature provider as specified in writing to Trustee by the Issuer). The use of electronic signatures and electronic records (including any contract or other record created, generated, sent, communicated, received or stored by electronic means) shall be of the same legal effect, validity and enforceability as a manually executed signature or use of a paper-based record-keeping system to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, including the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, the New York State Electronic Signatures and Records Act and any other applicable Law, including any state Law based on the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act or the Uniform Commercial Code. The Issuer agrees to assume all risks arising out of the use of using digital signatures and electronic methods to submit communications to each other, including without limitation the risk of the Trustee acting on unauthorized instructions (other than any instructions actually known by the Trustee to be unauthorized or otherwise invalid), and the risk of interception and misuse by third parties; provided that neither the Issuer assumes any such risks if the Issuer incurs any loss, liability or expense as a result of the Trustee’s, the Collateral Agent’s and/or any related Person’s own willful misconduct or gross negligence (as determined by a final, non-appealable order of a court of competent jurisdiction).

 

SECTION 2.03. The recitals contained in this Supplemental Indenture No. 2 shall be taken as the statements of the Issuer. The Trustee and the Collateral Agent assume no responsibility for the correctness of such recitals and make no representations as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture No. 2.

 

{SIGNATURE PAGES FOLLOW}

 

5

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture No. 2 to be duly executed as of the date first written above.

 

  CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.
   
  By: /s/ Steven A. Bourne
    Name: Steven A. Bourne
    Title: Chief Administrative Officer

 

{Signature Page to Supplemental Indenture No. 2}

 

 

 

 

  U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,
  as Trustee
     
  By: /s/ Diana Jacobs
    Name: Diana Jacobs
    Title: Vice President
     
  U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,
  as Collateral Agent
     
  By: /s/ Diana Jacobs
    Name: Diana Jacobs
    Title: Vice President

 

{Signature Page to Supplemental Indenture No. 2}

 

 

 

Exhibit 16.1

 

September 15, 2021

  

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, N.E.

Washington, DC 20549

 

Commissioners:

 

We have read the statements made by Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (f/k/a Blue Water Acquisition Corp.) under Item 4.01 of its Form 8-K dated September 15, 2021. We agree with the statements concerning our Firm in such Form 8-K; we are not in a position to agree or disagree with other statements of Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (f/k/a Blue Water Acquisition Corp.) contained therein.

 

Very truly yours,

 

/s/ Marcum llp

 

Marcum llp

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.1

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.

Condensed Balance Sheets

Unaudited

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    June 30,     December  31,  
    2021     2020  
Assets            
Current assets:            
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 10,278     $ 7,233  
Accounts receivable, net     6,229       4,400  
Inventory, net     9,761       5,857  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets     1,985       1,846  
Total current assets     28,253       19,336  
Property and equipment, net     73       64  
Total assets   $ 28,326     $ 19,400  
Liabilities, redeemable convertible preferred stock, and stockholders’ deficit                
Current liabilities:                
Senior notes payable   $ 51,297     $ 41,902  
Accounts payable     13,463       12,107  
Accrued expenses     11,002       4,631  
Deferred revenue     1,048       1,172  
Total current liabilities     76,810       59,812  
Convertible notes payable to related parties     98,130       77,911  
Royalty obligation     10,802       9,262  
Total liabilities     185,742       146,985  
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 12)                
Redeemable convertible preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 53,340,636 shares authorized at June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020; 35,537,077 and 36,756,498 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively     197,463       198,195  
Stockholders’ deficit:                
Common stock $0.001 par value; 56,593,539 shares authorized at June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020; 3,500,848 and 870,263 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively     3       1  
Additional paid-in capital     4,443        
Accumulated deficit     (359,325 )     (325,781 )
Total stockholders’ deficit     (354,879 )     (325,780 )
Total liabilities, redeemable convertible preferred stock, and stockholders’ deficit   $ 28,326     $ 19,400  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed financial statements.

 

 

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.

Condensed Statements of Operations

Unaudited

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    Three Months Ended
June 30,
    Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
    2021     2020     2021     2020  
Net product revenue   $ 2,779     $ 822     $ 5,109     $ 1,719  
Cost of product sales     554       103       921       8,071  
Gross profit (loss)     2,225       719       4,188       (6,352 )
Operating expenses:                                
Sales and marketing     9,530       9,875       17,467       14,824  
General and administrative     5,327       2,012       8,932       5,221  
Research and development     606       429       1,817       1,381  
Total operating expenses     15,463       12,316       28,216       21,426  
Loss from operations     (13,238 )     (11,597 )     (24,028 )     (27,778 )
Other (expense) income, net:                                
Change in fair value of warrant liability and derivative, net           26,462             32,915  
Interest income           9             23  
Interest expense     (4,877 )     (4,319 )     (9,517 )     (6,499 )
Total other (expense) income, net     (4,877 )     22,152       (9,517 )     26,439  
Net (loss) income before income taxes     (18,115 )     10,555       (33,545 )     (1,339 )
Provision for income taxes                        
Net (loss) income   $ (18,115 )   $ 10,555     $ (33,545 )   $ (1,339 )
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders, basic (Note 13)   $ (21,913 )   $ 200     $ (41,282 )   $ (8,680 )
Net loss attributable to common stockholders, diluted (Note 13)   $ (21,913 )   $ (24,221 )   $ (41,282 )   $ (8,680 )
Net (loss) income per common share attributable to common stockholders, basic (Note 13)   $ (6.26 )   $ 0.23     $ (17.12 )   $ (9.97 )
Net loss per common share attributable to common stockholders, diluted (Note 13)   $ (6.26 )   $ (1.39 )   $ (17.12 )   $ (9.97 )
Weighted-average common shares used in net (loss) income per share attributable to common stockholders, basic (Note 13)     3,500,848       870,263       2,410,827       870,263  
Weighted-average common shares used in net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, diluted (Note 13)     3,500,848       17,417,776       2,410,827       870,263  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed financial statements.

 

2

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.

Condensed Statements of Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

Unaudited

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    Redeemable Convertible
Preferred Stock
    Common Stock     Additional
Paid-in
    Accumulated     Total
Stockholders’
 
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Deficit  
Balance at December 31, 2020     36,756,498     $ 198,195       870,263     $ 1     $     $ (325,781 )   $ (325,780 )
Conversion of convertible notes payable into Series D redeemable convertible preferred stock     747,451       3,360                                
Conversion of Series D redeemable convertible preferred stock into common stock     (1,966,872 )     (11,829 )     2,630,585       2       11,827             11,829  
Accretion of redeemable convertible preferred stock to redemption value           3,939                   (3,939 )           (3,939 )
Stock-based compensation                             176             176  
Net loss                                   (15,429 )     (15,429 )
Balance at March 31, 2021     35,537,077     $ 193,665       3,500,848     $ 3     $ 8,064     $ (341,210 )   $ (333,143 )
Accretion of redeemable convertible preferred stock to redemption value           3,798                   (3,798 )           (3,798 )
Stock-based compensation                             177             177  
Net loss                                   (18,115 )     (18,115 )
Balance at June 30, 2021     35,537,077     $ 197,463       3,500,848       3     $ 4,443     $ (359,325 )   $ (354,879 )

 

    Redeemable Convertible
Preferred Stock
    Common Stock     Additional
Paid-in
    Accumulated     Total
Stockholders’
 
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Deficit  
Balance at December 31, 2019     36,756,498     $ 183,513       870,263     $ 1     $     $ (316,269 )   $ (316,268 )
Accretion of redeemable convertible preferred stock to redemption value           3,671                   (74 )     (3,597 )     (3,671 )
Stock-based compensation                             74             74  
Net loss                                   (11,894 )     (11,894 )
Balance at March 31, 2020     36,756,498     $ 187,184       870,263     $ 1     $     $ (331,760 )   $ (331,759 )
Accretion of redeemable convertible preferred stock to redemption value           3,670                   (70 )     (3,600 )     (3,670 )
Stock-based compensation                             70             70  
Net income                                   10,555       10,555  
Balance at June 30, 2020     36,756,498     $ 190,854       870,263     $ 1     $     $ (324,805 )   $ (324,804 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed financial statements.

 

3

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.

Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

Unaudited

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2021     2020  
Operating activities            
Net loss   $ (33,545 )   $ (1,339 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:                
Non-cash interest expense related to debt financing and royalty obligation     6,392       6,499  
Settlement of interest with payment-in-kind note     3,125        
Change in fair value of warrant liability           (449 )
Change in fair value of derivative liability           (32,466 )
Stock-based compensation expense     353       144  
Depreciation     12       9  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
Accounts receivable     (1,828 )     (970 )
Inventory     (3,903 )     2,815  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets     (142 )     (3,745 )
Accounts payable     1,357       2,293  
Accrued expenses     6,369       3,640  
Deferred revenue     (125 )     210  
Net cash used in operating activities     (21,935 )     (23,359 )
Investing activities                
Purchases of property and equipment     (20 )     (60 )
Net cash used in investing activities     (20 )     (60 )
Financing activities                
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes payable     20,000       1,611  
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes payable     5,000       49,125  
Proceeds from PPP loan           500  
Repayment of PPP loan           (500 )
Debt issuance costs           (3,516 )
Net cash provided by financing activities     25,000       47,220  
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents     3,045       23,801  
Cash and cash equivalents—beginning of period     7,233       1,656  
Cash and cash equivalents—end of period   $ 10,278     $ 25,457  
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:                
Conversion of convertible notes payable into Series D redeemable convertible preferred stock   $ 3,360     $  
Conversion of Series D redeemable convertible preferred stock into common stock   $ 11,829     $  
Accretion of redeemable convertible preferred stock to redemption value, including dividends on preferred stock   $ 7,737     $ 7,341  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed financial statements.

 

4

 

CLARUS THERAPEUTICS, INC.
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
Unaudited

 

1. Organization and Description of Business Operations

 

Clarus Therapeutics, Inc. (the “Company” or “Clarus”) is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the commercialization of JATENZO, the first and only oral testosterone (“T”) replacement, or testosterone replacement therapy (“TRT”), of its kind approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA. The FDA completed its review of the Company’s New Drug Application and approved JATENZO for marketing on March 27, 2019. The Company commercially launched JATENZO on February 10, 2020. JATENZO is the Company’s sole source of revenue and sales are exclusively within the United States. Management remains committed to the product’s commercial success. The Company was founded in 2004 and is located and headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois.

 

The Company is subject to risks and uncertainties associated with any pharmaceutical company that is transitioning from the development to commercial stage. Since inception, the Company has incurred substantial operating losses due to substantial product development and commercialization expenditures. In addition, the Company operates in an environment of rapid technological change and is largely dependent on the services of its employees and consultants. The Company anticipates incurring additional losses until such time, if ever, that it can generate significant sales of JATENZO, is cash flow positive from operations, or enters into cash flow positive business development transactions.

 

The Company’s U.S. patent portfolio on JATENZO currently includes five issued patents. The issued U.S. patents contain claims to both pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment using the Company’s proprietary pharmaceutical composition and all are listed in the FDA Orange Book: Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations. In addition, the Company has several patent applications pending in the United States and other countries that, if issued, will cover pharmaceutical compositions, methods of treatment and other features of JATENZO, and have the potential to extend patent coverage beyond 2030.

 

Merger

 

On September 9, 2021 (the “Closing Date”), Blue Water Acquisition Corp. (“Blue Water”, or “BLUW”), a Delaware corporation and Special Purpose Acquisition Company (“SPAC”) and Blue Water Merger Sub Corp., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Blue Water (“Merger Sub”), consummated the previously announced merger, dated as of April 27, 2021, with Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Clarus”), pursuant to which, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, the Merger Sub merged with and into Clarus, with Clarus surviving as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Blue Water, and with Clarus’s equity holders and convertible debt holders equity interests converted into the right to receive shares of New Blue Water common stock or else be canceled, retired and terminated without consideration, as provided in the Merger Agreement. Upon the consummation of the Business Combination, Blue Water changed its name to “Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.”

 

In connection with the Merger, the Company’s convertible noteholders and senior secured noteholders provided $25.0 million in additional capital to the Company following the announcement of the merger. All such proceeds plus accrued interest converted to shares of Combined Entity common stock at a price of $10.00 per share at the Closing Date, resulting in 2,558,705 shares issued. As of June 30, 2021 the Company had received $17.8 million of the $25.0 million in additional capital through the issuance of convertible notes and indenture notes (Note 6, Debt). The remaining additional capital of $25.0 million was received by the Company prior to the Closing Date. Together with Blue Water’s cash resources and additional capital, the Company received gross proceeds from the Merger (not including the $25.0 million of additional capital) of approximately $25.3 million.

 

At the effective time of the Merger (the “Effective Time”), shares of Clarus’s redeemable convertible Series D Preferred Stock issued and outstanding and all principal and accrued interest under the Company’s Series D convertible notes and Clarus’ outstanding warrants immediately prior to the Effective Time converted into 13,431,889 shares of the combined Company’s common stock. Additionally, $10.0 million of debt related to the Company’s senior secured notes including certain royalty rights was exchanged for an aggregate 1,905,000 shares of the combined Company’s common stock (which included 135,000 shares from the Sponsor pursuant to a share allocation agreement). All unexpired, outstanding Series D Warrants remain outstanding and became exercisable shares of common stock of the surviving entity, subject to adjustment in accordance with the exchange ratio

 

All other series of preferred stock, common stock and stock options were cancelled and extinguished upon completion of the Merger. In addition, Clarus’s existing equity incentive plans were terminated.

 

5

 

Liquidity and Going Concern

 

The Company has evaluated whether there are certain conditions and events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the condensed financial statements are issued.

 

Since its inception, the Company has devoted substantially all its efforts to business planning, clinical development, commercial planning and raising capital. The Company has incurred losses since inception and has an accumulated deficit of $359.3 million as of June 30, 2021, including $101.7 million of cumulative accretion on the Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series A Preferred Stock”), the Series B Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series B Preferred Stock”), the Series C Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series C Preferred Stock”) and the Series D Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series D Preferred Stock”), collectively, Preferred Stock, and $99.0 million of cumulative non-cash interest related to previously issued convertible debt. The Company is also in forbearance and default on its March 12, 2020 senior secured notes as it was unable to maintain at least $10.0 million in cash and cash equivalents as of the last day of each calendar month beginning December 2020 and was unable to pay the required $3.1 million interest payment due in March 2021.

 

In addition to the consummation of the SPAC merger and the related investment, the Company plans to seek additional funding through the expansion of its commercial efforts to grow JATENZO and its operating cash flow, business development efforts to out-license JATENZO internationally, equity financings, debt financings such as the secured notes described in Note 6, Debt, or other capital sources including collaborations with other companies or other strategic arrangements with third parties. There can be no assurance that these future financing efforts will be successful.

 

If the Company is unable to obtain funding or generate operating cash flow, the Company will be forced to delay, reduce or eliminate some or all of its product portfolio expansion or commercialization efforts, which could adversely affect its business prospects, or the Company may be unable to continue operations. Although management continues to pursue these plans, there is no assurance that the Company will be successful in obtaining sufficient funding on terms acceptable to the Company to fund continuing operations, if at all. The terms of any financing may adversely affect the holdings or the rights of the Company’s stockholders.

 

Based on its recurring losses from operations incurred since inception, expectation of continuing operating losses for the foreseeable future, and need to raise additional capital to finance its future operations, as of the issuance date of the condensed financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2021, the Company has concluded that its cash and cash equivalents will not be sufficient to fund its operating expenses, capital expenditure requirements and debt service payments through at least twelve months from the date that these condensed financial statements are available to be issued and that there is substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

 

The accompanying condensed financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty. Accordingly, the condensed financial statements have been prepared on a basis that assumes the Company will continue as a going concern and which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities and commitments in the ordinary course of business.

 

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

 

The business disruptions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on the Company’s condensed financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2021. Management expects that the public health actions being undertaken to reduce the spread of the virus, and that may have to be undertaken again in the event of a resurgence of the virus, will create significant disruptions to the Company with respect to: (i) the demand for its products, (ii) the ability of its sales representatives to reach healthcare customers, (iii) its ability to maintain staffing levels to support its operations, (iv) its ability to continue to manufacture certain of its products, (v) the reliability of its supply chain and (vi) its ability to achieve the financial covenants required by the senior secured notes agreement (see Note 6, Debt). The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic will impact the Company’s business will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, such as the duration of the outbreak, travel restrictions and social distancing in the U.S. and other countries, business closures or business disruptions and the effectiveness of actions taken in the U.S. and other countries to contain and treat the disease.

 

The Company is closely monitoring the evolving impact of the pandemic on all aspects of its business. The Company has implemented a number of measures designed to protect the health and safety of its employees, support its customers and promote business continuity. The Company is also actively reviewing and implementing cost-saving measures, including discontinuing or delaying all non-essential services and programs and instituting controls on travel, events, marketing and clinical studies to adapt the business plan for the evolving COVID-19 challenges.

 

6

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Significant Accounting Policies

 

The Company’s significant accounting policies are disclosed in the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the notes thereto, which are included in Blue Water’s final prospectus that forms part of the Blue Water’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Reg. No. 333-256116), filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) on July 23, 2021. Since the date of those consolidated financial statements, there have been no material changes to its significant accounting policies, except as noted below.

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The condensed financial statements and accompanying notes have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The unaudited condensed financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary to fairly present the financial position of the Company as of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the results of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 and its cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 have been included and are of a normal, recurring nature except as otherwise disclosed. These condensed financial statements and notes thereto have been prepared under the presumption that users of the financial information have either read or have access to the audited financial statements for the latest year ended December 31, 2020.

 

Use of Estimates

 

Preparation of the condensed financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period covered by the condensed financial statements and accompanying notes. The most significant estimates relate to determination of fair value of the Company’s common stock and common stock warrants, stock-based compensation, notes, royalty obligation and the valuation of embedded derivatives. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, and records adjustments when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Net Income (Loss) Per Share

 

Basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period and, if dilutive, the weighted-average number of potential shares of common stock. Net income (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders is calculated using the two-class method, which is an earnings allocation formula that determines net income (loss) per share for the holders of the Company’s common shares and participating securities. The Company’s preferred stock and warrants to purchase preferred stock contain participation rights in any dividend paid by the Company and are deemed to be participating securities. Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders and participating preferred stock and participating preferred stock warrants is allocated first to preferred stockholders and warrant holders based on dividend rights and then to common and preferred stockholders based on ownership interests on an as-converted basis as if all of the earnings for the period had been distributed. The participating securities do not include a contractual obligation to share in losses of the Company and are not included in the calculation of net loss per share in the periods in which a net loss is recorded.

 

When considering the impact of the convertible equity instruments, diluted net income (loss) per share is computed using the more dilutive of (a) the two-class method or (b) the if-converted method. The Company allocates earnings first to preferred stockholders and warrant holders based on dividend rights and then to common and preferred stockholders and warrant holders based on ownership interests. The weighted-average number of common shares included in the computation of diluted net loss gives effect to all potentially dilutive common equivalent shares, including outstanding stock options, warrants, convertible redeemable preferred stock and the potential issuance of common stock upon the conversion of the Company’s convertible notes. Common stock equivalent shares are excluded from the computation of diluted net income (loss) per share if their effect is antidilutive. In periods in which the Company reports a net loss attributable to common stockholders, diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders is generally the same as basic net loss per share attributable to common stockholders since dilutive common shares are not assumed to have been issued if their effect is anti-dilutive.

 

7

 

3. Fair Value Measurements

 

The following tables present information about the Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

 

    June 30, 2021  
(in thousands)   Total     Level 1     Level 2     Level 3  
Assets                        
Cash equivalents:                        
Money market funds   $ 7,833     $ 7,833     $     $  
Total assets   $ 7,833     $ 7,833     $     $  

 

    December 31, 2020  
(in thousands)   Total     Level 1     Level 2     Level 3  
Assets                        
Cash equivalents:                        
Money market funds   $ 7,205     $ 7,205     $     $  
Total assets   $ 7,205     $ 7,205     $     $  

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2021 and the year ended December 31, 2020, there were no transfers between levels.

 

As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company’s cash equivalents consisted of money market funds, classified as Level 1 financial assets, as these assets are valued using quoted market prices in active markets without any valuation adjustment. There were no financial assets valued based on Level 2 inputs.

 

The carrying amounts reported in the accompanying balance sheets for cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate their fair value based on the short-term nature of these instruments. The carrying value of long-term and short-term debt, taking into consideration debt discounts and related derivative instruments, is estimated to approximate fair value.

 

As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had Level 3 financial liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The Company’s warrant liability and derivative liability are carried at fair value, determined using Level 3 inputs in the fair value hierarchy. As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the warrant liability and derivative liability were valued at zero.

 

8

 

4. Inventory

 

Inventory consisted of the following as of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020 (in thousands):

 

    June 30,     December 31,  
    2021     2020  
Raw material   $ 4,226     $ 4,225  
Work-in-process     5,060        
Finished goods     475       1,632  
Total   $ 9,761     $ 5,857  

 

The inventory balance as of June 30, 2021 is disclosed net of the Company’s inventory reserve. As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had an inventory reserve balance of $7.8 million.

 

5. Accrued Expenses

 

Accrued expenses consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

    June 30,     December 31,  
    2021     2020  
Selling and marketing costs   $ 8,875     $ 3,468  
Employee compensation and related benefits     1,483       1,090  
Professional Fees     635       73  
Other     9        
Total   $ 11,002     $ 4,631  

 

6. Debt

 

Convertible Notes

 

From 2016 to 2021, the Company issued several convertible notes (the “Convertible Notes”) pursuant to which the Company borrowed an aggregate of $81.3 million from existing investors and related parties. All Convertible Notes accrue interest at a rate of 8% compounded daily and have a maturity date of March 1, 2025.

 

The Company had the following convertible notes outstanding as of June 30, 2021 (in thousands):

 

Issuance Year   Outstanding Principal Amount  
2016   $ 17,243  
2017     13,410  
2018     8,911  
2019     17,547  
2020     1,611  
2021     20,000  
Total   $ 78,722  

 

The Convertible Notes contain various conversion features. Upon the occurrence of a qualified financing, the Convertible Notes plus accrued interest mandatorily convert, to shares issued in the qualified financing, as defined in the notes, at a 20% discount, or into shares of Series D Preferred Stock at the Series D Price of $4.50 per share. Upon the occurrence of a non-qualified financing, the noteholders have the option to convert at the same terms as described above for a qualified financing. At maturity, the noteholders also have an option to convert at the terms described above for a qualified or non-qualified financing. If the Company completes a strategic transaction and the Convertible Notes have not been previously converted, noteholders will automatically receive an acquisition premium of the greater of a) the sum of (i) 1.5 times the principal amount of the Convertible Notes and (ii) accrued and unpaid interest thereon, or b) the amount that would have been payable to the noteholders if such notes had been converted to shares of Series D Preferred Stock at the Series D price immediately prior to the close of such strategic transaction.

 

9

 

The Company determined that the acquisition premium and the qualified and non-qualified financing conversion features were embedded derivative instruments requiring bifurcation as separate liabilities with a corresponding debt discount, of which were determined to be fair valued at zero as of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020. The debt discount was amortized to interest expense using the effective interest rate method over the term of the Convertible Notes.

 

In April 2021, pursuant to the executed amendment of the Convertible Notes, the Company and certain lenders agreed to extend or further extend the maturity dates of the Convertible Notes to September 1, 2025. The amendment only modified the maturity date, no other terms, and accordingly was deemed administrative in nature as it was not intended to change any of the economic terms between parties. As such the extension of the maturity dates was deemed to be a modification of the Convertible Notes and modification accounting was applied. The Company calculated the remaining debt discount for each of the Convertible Notes and adjusted the effective interest rate to amortize the remaining debt discount over the adjusted remaining life of the Convertible Notes.

 

In March 2021, upon an investor’s decision to not participate in the next round of Convertible Notes, pursuant to the Convertible Notes’ provisions, $3.4 million of the investor’s Convertible Notes converted into 747,451 shares of Series D Preferred Stock and such Series D Preferred Stock issued as a result of this conversion was converted into common stock. At the date of conversion, the outstanding principal and accrued interest on the Convertible Notes were $2.6 million and $0.8 million, respectively. Refer to Note 7, Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, for additional information.

 

The carrying value of the Company’s Convertible Notes consisted of (in thousands):

 

    June 30,     December  31,  
    2021     2020  
Principal amount   $ 81,300     $ 61,300  
Accrued and unpaid interest     20,673       17,287  
Unamortized debt discount     (483 )     (676 )
Conversion of convertible notes payable into Series D redeemable convertible preferred stock     (3,360 )      
Total   $ 98,130     $ 77,911  

 

The Company recognized interest expense of $1.8 million and $1.5 million during the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company recognized interest expense of $3.4 million and $3.0 million during the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

 

Senior Secured Notes

 

The carrying value of the Company’s senior secured notes consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

    June 30,     December  31,  
    2021     2020  
Principal amount   $ 58,125     $ 50,000  
Accrued and unpaid interest     1,234       1,278  
Unamortized debt discount     (8,062 )     (9,376 )
Total   $ 51,297     $ 41,902  

 

On March 12, 2020, the Company issued and sold senior secured notes to certain lenders not related to the Company. The aggregate principal amount of the senior secured notes was $50.0 million and the Company received $42.7 million in net proceeds after deducting transaction expenses of $4.4 million and prepaid interest of $2.9 million. In the second quarter of 2021, the Company added two additional notes to the principal senior secured notes balance, the PIK Note and the Indenture Note, totaling $8.1 million (refer to additional information below). The aggregate principal balance as of June 30, 2021 is $58.1 million.

 

The senior secured notes bear interest at 12.5% and specify semiannual payments on March 1 and September 1 and have a maturity date of March 1, 2025. The first two years provide for interest-only payments and the final three years amortize the principal balance at $15.0 million, $15.0 million and $20.0 million, respectively. The senior secured notes are governed by an indenture, dated as of March 12, 2020, between the Company and the investors. The interest rate will increase to 14.50% for overdue installments in the event of default. In addition to liquidation preference, the senior secured notes contain a lien on all assets of the Company.

 

10

 

Future principal payments of the senior secured notes are as follows (in thousands):

 

Years ended December 31,   Amount  
2021 (remaining 6 months)   $ 5,000  
2022     7,500  
2023     18,125  
2024     17,500  
2025     10,000  
Total   $ 58,125  

 

The senior secured notes also have a detachable royalty feature under which the lenders receive a royalty of 0.56% to 1.67% on net sales beginning in 2021, with the royalty obligation continuing until the lenders receive total royalty payments of approximately $24.2 million. The value assigned to royalty rights is recorded as a debt discount to the Notes and is amortized to interest expense over the life of the notes. The royalty obligation had a fair value of $7.9 million at issuance in March of 2020. The lenders have a security interest in the assets and intellectual property of the Company. Since the royalty rights are tied to Clarus’ net sales of JATENZO, such royalty rights are not subject to treatment as a derivative instrument and thus do not need to be periodically measured and marked to market. Proceeds were used to finance the commercial launch of JATENZO. Refer to the section below for the accounting treatment of the royalty obligation.

 

In connection with the senior secured notes, the Company entered into an indenture stating that the Company would maintain cash and cash equivalents in the amount of at least $10.0 million as of the last day of each calendar month, commencing on March 31, 2020. As of December 31, 2020, the Company was unable to maintain cash and cash equivalents of $10.0 million, and such breach of the indenture resulted in a default and the negotiation of a forbearance agreement noted below.

 

Forbearance Agreement

 

On March 17, 2021, the Company entered into a forbearance agreement with noteholders in relation to the senior secured notes. The Company was unable to and did not pay interest of $3.1 million due on March 1, 2021. As of March 31, 2021, the Company entered into default on its senior secured notes, and in accordance with the terms of the senior secured notes, the interest increased to 14.5%.

 

Under the forbearance agreement, in exchange for the investors’ agreement not to exercise their rights to retrieve the funds owed, the Company was required to maintain cash and cash equivalents of at least $2.5 million amongst other financial budgeting and reporting requirements until consummation of the Business Combination. Under the forbearance agreement, the forbearance period would not be terminated provided that the Company, amongst other things, executed the merger agreement and provided financial reporting requirements by April 27, 2021.

 

PIK Note

 

In May 2021, the Company entered into a payment-in-kind, or PIK, note (the “PIK Note”), in relation to the Company’s missed interest payment (which was due in March 2021) on its senior secured notes, pursuant to which the Company borrowed an aggregate of $3.1 million from senior secured noteholders, to be included in the principal senior secured notes balance. The PIK Note accrues interest at a rate of 14.5%, compounded daily. Pursuant to the PIK Note, on February 1, 2023 the Company is required to make a payment of principal in the amount of $3.1 million, plus accrued and unpaid interest in respect of such principal.

 

Indenture Note

 

In June 2021, the Company entered into the Indenture Note, pursuant to which the Company borrowed an aggregate of $5.0 million from senior secured noteholders, to be included in the principal senior secured notes balance. The Indenture Note accrues interest at a rate of 14.5%, compounded daily, and was repaid with the combined entity’s common stock upon the date of merger.

 

11

 

Royalty Obligation

 

The Company periodically assesses the estimated royalty payments related to the senior secured notes to the lender and to the extent such payments are greater or less than its initial estimates or the timing of such payments is materially different than its original estimates, the Company will prospectively adjust the accretion of interest on the royalty obligation. There are a number of factors that could materially affect the amount and the timing of royalty payments, most of which are not within the Company’s control. Such factors include, but are not limited to, the rate of JATENZO prescriptions, the number of doses administered, the introduction of competing products, manufacturing or other delays, patent protection, adverse events that result in governmental health authority-imposed restrictions on the use of the drug products, and sales never achieving forecasted numbers, which would result in reduced royalty payments and reduced non-cash interest expense over the life of the royalty obligation. To the extent future royalties result in an amount less than the liability, the Company is not obligated to fund any such shortfall.

 

The Company records estimated royalties due for the current period in accrued other expenses until the payment is received from the customer, at which time the Company then remits payment to the lenders. In order to determine the accretion of the royalty obligation, the Company is required to estimate the total amount of future royalty payments to be received and submitted to the lenders. The sum of these amounts less the proceeds the Company received will be recorded as interest expense over the life of the royalty obligation. As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company’s estimate of its total interest expense resulted in an annual effective interest rate of approximately 32.3%.

 

The carrying value of the Company’s royalty obligation is as follows (in thousands):

 

    June 30, 2021  
Royalty obligation as of December 31, 2020   $ 9,262  
Non-cash interest expense recognized     1,540  
Royalty obligation - ending balance   $ 10,802  

 

During the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded $0.8 million and $0.1 million, respectively, of related non-cash interest expense. During the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded $1.5 million and $0.7 million, respectively, of related non-cash interest expense.

 

PPP Loan

 

In March of 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) was enacted to, among other provisions, provide emergency assistance for individuals, families and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act includes a Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) administered through the Small Business Association (“SBA”). Under the PPP, beginning April 3, 2020, small businesses and other entities and individuals could apply for loans from existing SBA lenders and other approved regulated lenders that enroll in the program, subject to numerous limitations and eligibility criteria.

 

In April of 2020, the Company received an unsecured loan of $0.5 million from the SBA. After considering further guidance issued by SBA, the Company elected to repay the loan in full in May of 2020 with no interest due under safe harbor provisions of the CARES Act.

 

12

 

7. Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock

 

There were no shares of redeemable convertible preferred stock issued during the six months ended June 30, 2020.

 

In March 2021, 2,630,585 shares of Series D Preferred Stock (of which 747,451 shares are from the conversion of Convertible Notes discussed in Note 6, Debt) converted into 2,630,585 shares of common stock. At the date of conversion, the cost at purchase plus accrued and unpaid dividends on the Series D Preferred Stock was $11.8 million.

 

As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, Preferred Stock consisted of the following (in thousands, except for share data):

 

    June 30, 2021  
    Preferred Stock
Authorized
    Preferred Stock Issued
and Outstanding
    Carrying Value     Liquidation Value     Common Stock Issuable
Upon Conversion
 
Series A Preferred Stock     2,500,000       2,500,000     $ 9,537     $ 9,537       2,500,000  
Series B Preferred Stock     5,066,637       5,066,637       15,722       15,722       5,066,637  
Series C Preferred Stock     9,438,744       9,438,744       20,859       20,859       9,438,744  
Series D Preferred Stock     36,335,255       18,531,696       151,345       151,345       18,531,696  
Total     53,340,636       35,537,077     $ 197,463     $ 197,463       35,537,077  

 

    December 31, 2020  
    Preferred Stock
Authorized
    Preferred Stock Issued
and Outstanding
    Carrying Value     Liquidation Value     Common Stock Issuable
Upon Conversion
 
Series A Preferred Stock     2,500,000       2,500,000     $ 9,170     $ 9,170       2,500,000  
Series B Preferred Stock     5,066,637       5,066,637       15,118       15,118       5,066,637  
Series C Preferred Stock     9,438,744       9,438,744       20,057       20,057       9,438,744  
Series D Preferred Stock     36,335,255       19,751,117       153,850       153,850       19,751,117  
Total     53,340,636       36,756,498     $ 198,195     $ 198,195       36,756,498  

 

The following is a summary of the rights and preferences of Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock, and Series D Preferred Stock (collectively, “Preferred Stock”) are as follows:

 

Conversion — Each share of Preferred Stock is convertible into common stock, upon approval of the holders of at least 65% of the preferred shares, on a share-for-share basis to be adjusted for the effect of any stock splits or reverse splits, subject to certain antidilution adjustments, are entitled to vote together with the common stockholders as one class and are entitled to separate votes on certain matters. Preferred Stock automatically converts on a share-for-share basis into shares of common stock upon the closing of a qualified IPO.

 

Dividends — Preferred stockholders are entitled to receive an annual, cumulative 8% dividend, when and if declared by the Board of Directors. No dividends have been declared through June 30, 2021.

 

Liquidation Preference — Upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of business, the holders of the Preferred Stock are entitled to receive a liquidation preference in priority over the holders of common stock, at an amount per share equal to their original purchase price of $1.82 per share for Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock, $1.50 per share for Series C Preferred Stock and $4.50 for Series D Preferred Stock, plus accumulated dividends. Upon liquidation, the Company’s remaining assets will be distributed to Preferred Stockholders in the following order: Series D Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, Series A Preferred Stock. When holders of preferred stock are satisfied in full, any excess assets available for distribution will be allocated ratably among common stockholders based on their pro rata shareholdings. Upon a deemed liquidation event, as defined, holders have the option to redeem their shareholding at the liquidation payment amounts summarized above.

 

Redemption — Holders of at least 65% of the then outstanding preferred shares, voting together as a separate class, may require the Company to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock upon the earlier of (a) September 9, 2016 (in which case such shares of Preferred Stock shall be redeemed by the Company in three equal annual installments), and (b) the occurrence of any redemption event. A redemption event shall mean the breach by the Company of any material term of its Certificate of Incorporation or any material provision of the related securities purchase agreement, the stockholders’ agreement or the registration rights agreement. To date holders have not required redemption of the Preferred Stock.

 

13

 

Voting Rights — Preferred Stock and common stock generally vote together as one class on an as-converted basis; however, common stock voting rights on certain matters are subject to the powers, preferences, and rights of the Preferred Stock. The holders of Series C Preferred Stock are entitled to elect three directors to the Company’s board of directors and the holders of Series D Preferred Stock are entitled to elect one director to the Company’s board of directors. Certain actions, such as mergers, acquisition, liquidation, dissolution, wind up of business, and deemed liquidation events, must be approved by the holders of at least 65% of outstanding shares of Series D Preferred Stock.

 

8. Common Stock

 

The Company was authorized to issue up to 56,593,539 shares of common stock with a $0.001 par value per share as of June 30, 2021.

 

The voting, dividend and liquidation rights of the holders of the Company’s common stock are subject to and qualified by the rights, powers and preferences of the holders of the preferred stock as set forth above.

 

The holders of common stock are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock. Subject to the payment in full of all preferential dividends to which the holders of the Preferred Stock are entitled, the holders of common stock shall be entitled to receive dividends out of funds legally available. In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the Company, after the payment or provision for payment of all debts and liabilities of the Company and all preferential amounts to which the holders of Preferred Stock are entitled with respect to the distribution of assets in liquidation, the holders of common stock shall be entitled to share ratably in the remaining assets of the Company available for distribution.

 

As of June 30, 2021, the Company has reserved the following shares of common stock for the potential conversion of outstanding preferred stock and exercise of stock options:

 

    June 30,  
    2021  
Preferred stock, as converted     35,537,077  
Options to purchase common stock     3,814,659  
Series D warrants     183,438  
Remaining shares reserved for future issuance     1,350,481  
Total     40,885,655  

 

9. Stock-Based Compensation

 

2004 Stock Incentive Plan

 

Effective February 13, 2004, the Company adopted the Clarus Therapeutics 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2004 Plan”). The 2004 Plan was amended on January 28, 2011 to increase the number of shares of the Company’s common stock reserved for issuance to employees, directors, and consultants to 1,529,936 shares. Options granted under the 2004 Plan may be incentive stock options or non-statutory stock options. Restricted stock awards may also be granted under the 2004 Plan. Incentive stock options may only be granted to employees. Options generally vest over a four-year period. The exercise price of incentive stock options shall be not less than 100% of the fair market value per share of the Company’s Common Stock on the grant date. As of June 30, 2021, only incentive stock options to employees have been awarded under the 2004 Plan. The awards granted under this plan generally vest over a four-year period and have a 10-year contractual term.

 

2014 Stock Option and Incentive Plan

 

Effective February 13, 2014, the Company adopted the Clarus Therapeutics 2014 Stock Option and Incentive Plan (the “2014 Plan”) and reserved 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock for the issuance of awards under the 2014 Plan. The 2014 Plan permits the Company to make grants of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, unrestricted stock awards, cash-based awards, performance share awards and dividend equivalent rights. To qualify as incentive options, stock options must meet additional federal tax requirements, including a $100,000 limit on the value of shares subject to incentive options which first become exercisable in any calendar year, and a shorter term and higher minimum exercise price in the case of certain large stockholders. All full-time and part-time officers, employees, non-employee directors and other key persons, including consultants and prospective employees, are eligible to participate in the 2014 Plan, subject to the sole discretion of the administrator. On December 15, 2017, April 17, 2019 and again on December 18, 2020, the 2014 Plan was amended, increasing the total shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance by 416,500, 26,140, and 3,000,000 shares, respectively, for a total of 4,442,640 shares of Common Stock available for award in the 2014 Plan. As of June 30, 2021, no shares of common stock were available for future grants under the 2014 Plan. Once the 2014 Plan was adopted, no further options were awarded under the 2004 Plan. The awards granted under this plan generally vest over a four-year period and have a 10-year contractual term.

 

14

 

Stock Options

 

The following table summarizes stock option activity under the Plans:

 

    Number of
options
    Weighted
average
exercise
price
    Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
    Aggregate
intrinsic
value
 
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020     3,814,659     $ 2.17       6.8     $  
Granted                            
Exercised                            
Cancelled                            
Forfeited                            
Outstanding as of June 30, 2021     3,814,659     $ 2.17       6.3     $  
Options vested and exercisable as of June 30, 2021     2,830,253     $ 1.99       5.3     $  

 

No stock options were granted during the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 51,968 stock options were granted during the six months ended June 30, 2020. The total fair value of stock options vested during the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 was $0.4 million and $0.2 million, respectively.

 

Stock-Based Compensation Expense

 

Stock-based compensation expense is as follows (in thousands):

 

    Three Months Ended June 30,     Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2021     2020     2021     2020  
Selling and marketing   $ 5     $     $ 10     $  
Research and development     16       19       32       40  
General and administrative     156       51       311       104  
Total stock-based compensation expense   $ 177     $ 70     $ 353     $ 144  

 

As of June 30, 2021, there was $0.2 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to unvested stock options, which is being recognized over a period of 0.8 years. At the Effective Time of the merger, the Company terminated its equity incentive plans and all options issued and outstanding, whether vested or unvested, were cancelled and extinguished.

 

10. Income Taxes

 

The Company did not record a federal or state or income tax provision or benefit for the six months ended June 30, 2021 or 2020 due to the expected loss before income taxes to be incurred, as well as the Company’s continued maintenance of a full valuation allowance against its net deferred tax assets.

 

15

 

11. License Agreements

 

Agreement with HavaH

 

In May 2021, the Company entered into a license agreement (the “HavaH Agreement”) with HavaH Therapeutics, or HavaH, an Australia-based biopharmaceutical company developing androgen therapies for inflammatory breast disease and certain forms of breast cancer. Under the HavaH Agreement, the Company will acquire the development and commercialization rights for HavaH T+Ai™, to be renamed CLAR-121.

 

Under the terms of the licensing agreement, HavaH may be eligible for up to $10.8 million in potential development and regulatory milestone payments. Additionally, HavaH would be eligible for royalty payments and up to $30.0 million in potential commercial milestones. Such royalty payments will be based on total aggregate annual net sales of CLAR-121 in the territory, at a low single digit percentage rate (when there is no patent protection or regulatory exclusivity) or a low teens percentage rate (where CLAR-121 has patent protection or regulatory exclusivity). Additionally, such royalties are payable until the later of ten years or the loss of patent protection or regulatory exclusivity.

 

To date, pursuant to the HavaH Agreement, the Company has made cash payments of $0.5 million consisting of the upfront payment.

 

12. Commitments and Contingencies

 

Lease Commitments

 

The Company leases office space in Northbrook, Illinois and Murfreesboro, Tennessee under non-cancelable operating leases which expire on December 31, 2021 and September 30, 2022, respectively. Total rent expense under the lease agreements was $0.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

 

A summary of the Company’s future minimum lease payments required under non-cancellable lease agreements is as follows (in thousands):

 

Years ended December 31,   Amount  
2021 (remaining 6 months)   $ 47  
2022     16  
2023      
2024      
2025      
Total   $ 63  

 

Purchase Obligation

 

In July of 2009, the Company entered into a commercial manufacturing agreement, as amended, with Catalent Pharma Solutions, LLC (the “Catalent Agreement”). Pursuant to the terms of the Catalent Agreement, the Company must make minimum annual purchases of JATENZO equal to 7.0 million softgels, through the initial term, or March 2025. Any shortfall between the minimum annual purchase quantities and actual purchases will be multiplied by a unit price, as defined in the Catalent Agreement, and paid to Catalent within 30 days of any year-end that the minimum purchase requirement is not met. The Company has not made any payments to Catalent as a result of a shortfall in minimum purchase quantities. The Catalent Agreement renews automatically for two-year periods and either party may terminate the contract upon twelve months written notice. Purchases under the Catalent Agreement for the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 were $1.7 million and $0.2 million, respectively. Purchases under the Catalent Agreement for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 were $5.1 million and $3. million, respectively.

 

16

 

The Company entered into a product supply agreement with Pharmacia & Upjohn Company LLC, or Pfizer (the “Pfizer Agreement”), effective January 1, 2021. . Pursuant to the terms of the Pfizer Agreement, the Company must make minimum annual purchases of T-undecanoate equal to approximately $1.8 million per year, through the initial term, or January 2024. If there is a shortfall between the minimum annual purchase quantities and actual purchases, the difference between the minimum annual purchase amount and actual purchases will be paid to Pfizer by the Company. There were no purchases under the Pfizer Agreement during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, in the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to litigation and regulatory examinations as well as information gathering requests, inquiries and investigations.

 

On April 2, 2019, an action for patent infringement was filed against the Company by Lipocine in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware. The lawsuit (Civil Action No. 19-cv-622, assigned to Judge William Bryson, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, sitting by designation) sought a declaratory judgement of infringement under 35 U.S.C. § 271(a)-(c) arising from the Company’s intent to market and sell JATENZO, based on the FDA’s approval of JATENZO in March 2019. Lipocine ultimately alleged that the Company infringed certain claims in each of four U.S. Patents: U.S. Patent No. 9,034,858, U.S. Patent No. 9,205,057, U.S. Patent No. 9,480,690 and U.S. Patent No. 9,757,390. Lipocine sought monetary damages in the form of a reasonable royalty, pre-judgment interest, post-judgment interest, and attorneys’ fees, costs and disbursements, and injunctive relief.

 

In July 2021, Clarus and Lipocine entered into a settlement agreement that settled all claims between the parties, including the interference matter (described above) and the pending Clarus counterclaims against Lipocine, and provides for a payment by Lipocine to Clarus of a $4.0 million settlement fee payable as follows: $2.5 million upfront, $1.0 million within 12 months, and the remainder within two years. The Company received payment of $2.5 million of the $4.0 million in July 2021.

 

Pursuant to the settlement agreement, a joint stipulation for dismissal was filed, and was so ordered by the Court on July 15, 2021, thereby terminating the district court action. Moreover, and as part of this settlement, Lipocine filed a request for entry of an adverse judgment in Interference No. 106,128 on July 16, 2021, and the Company is awaiting action on that request by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). The Company believes that its ’178 application will proceed to issuance following what it believes will be entry of a decision adverse to Lipocine by the PTAB.

 

13. Net Income (Loss) Per Share

 

Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders are calculated as follows:

 

    Three Months Ended June 30,     Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2021     2020     2021     2020  
Numerator:                        
Net loss (income)   $ (18,115 )   $ 10,555     $ (33,545 )   $ (1,339 )
Accretion of preferred stock     (3,798 )     (3,670 )     (7,737 )     (7,341 )
Loss attributable to participating warrants and preferred stock shareholders     -       (6,685 )     -       -  
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders, basic     (21,913 )     200       (41,282 )     (8,680 )
Effect of convertible notes     -       (24,421 )     -       (24,421 )
Net loss attributable to common stockholders, diluted   $ (21,913 )   $ (24,221 )   $ (41,282 )   $ (33,101 )
                                 
Denominator:   $ 5,470     $ (41,650 )   $ 5,470     $ (41,650 )
Weighted-average common shares attributable to common stockholders, basic     3,500,848     870,263       2,410,827     870,263  
Effect of convertible notes     -       16,547,513       -       -  
Weighted average number of common shares - diluted     3,500,848       17,417,776       2,410,827       870,263  
Weighted-average common shares attributable to common stockholders, diluted   $ (6.26 )   $ 0.23     $ (17.12 )   $ (9.97 )
Effect of convertible notes     -       (1.62 )     -       -  
Net loss per common share attributable to common stockholders, diluted   $ (6.26 )   $ (1.39 )   $ (17.12 )   $ (9.97 )

 

17

 

The Company excluded the following shares from the computation of diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders as of June 30, 2021 and 2020 because including them would have had an anti-dilutive effect:

 

    Three Months Ended June 30,     Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2021     2020     2021     2020  
Redeemable convertible preferred stock     35,537,077       -       35,537,077       36,756,498  
Convertible notes (1)     21,806,713       -       21,806,713       16,547,513  
Options to purchase common stock     3,814,659       2,229,562       3,814,659       2,229,562  
Series D warrants     183,438       -       183,438       183,438  

 

 

(1) Convertible note shares are calculated using the Series D Preferred Stock issue price of $4.50 per share and includes interest accrued as of June 30, 2021 and 2020.

 

The convertible notes including interest for redeemable convertible preferred stock, which as of June 30, 2020 would be convertible into 16,547,513 shares common stock using the as-if converted method, are included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended June 30, 2020. These convertible notes were included in the anti-dilutive table above for the three months ended June 30, 2021, and the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 because they would be anti-dilutive for this period.

 

As of the three months ended June 30, 2021, and the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, the Company’s potentially dilutive securities, which include preferred stock and stock options, have been excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share as the effect would be to reduce the net loss per share. Therefore, the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate both basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders is the same for these periods.

 

14. Related Party Transactions

 

In July of 2020, a member of the Company’s board of directors temporarily expanded his director duties as an executive director, at the request of the Company’s board of directors. As executive director, this member received a total of $0.1 million in consulting fees during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

15. Subsequent Events

 

Issuance of Convertible Note

 

In July 2021, the Company entered into an additional note purchase agreement (the “2021 Notes”) pursuant to which the Company borrowed an aggregate of $3.6 million from existing investors. Outstanding balances under the 2021 Notes accrue interest at a rate of 8%, compounded daily, and was repaid with the combined entity’s common stock upon the date of consummation of the Merger. The conversion features of the 2021 Notes are identical to the conversion features of the Convertible Notes.

 

Issuance of Indenture Note

 

In July 2021, the Company entered into an additional note purchase agreements (the “Second Indenture Note”) pursuant to which the Company borrowed an aggregate of $3.6 million from senior secured noteholders. The outstanding balance under the Second Indenture Note accrues interest at a rate of 14.5%, compounded daily, and was repaid with the combined entity’s common stock upon the date of consummation of the Merger.

 

Forbearance Extension

 

In August 2021, the Company entered into forbearance extensions with the noteholders in relation to the senior secured notes. The latest forbearance extension, entered into on August 26, 2021, extended the forbearance period through September 9, 2021, the consummation date of the Merger.

 

As of the date these financial statements are issued, the Company has not made the $3.9 million interest payment due September 1, 2021 pursuant to a 30-day grace period provided in the indenture.

 

Transfer of Merger Shares

 

In September 2021, the Company entered into a share allocation agreement in connection with the Merger and additional forbearance. Under the share allocation agreement, Clarus noteholders received an additional 405,000 shares of the Combined Entity. Of these 405,000 shares, 135,000 was transferred from the Blue Water founder shares and 270,000 shares were reallocated from the Clarus equityholders and received upon the closing of the Merger.

 

 

18

 

 

Exhibit 99.2

 

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

 

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and related notes that appear elsewhere in this Current Report on Form 8-K. In addition to historical information, this discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those made, projected or implied in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and elsewhere particularly in the “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” sections of this Current Report on Form 8-K.

 

Overview

 

We are a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the commercialization of JATENZO, the first and only oral T-replacement, or T-replacement therapy (“TRT”) of its kind that has received final approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”). We believe that current users of TRT are not satisfied with their current options and desire a therapeutic that is safe, effective and more convenient. Our primary goal for JATENZO is for it to become the preferred choice for TRT among men with hypogonadism — T deficiency accompanied by an associated medical condition. In parallel, our broader vision is for Clarus to become a profitable specialty pharmaceutical company initially focused on the development and commercialization of T and metabolic therapies for men and women.

 

Our corporate objectives include maximizing the commercial success of JATENZO in the United States and internationally by making it the preferred choice for TRT for men with hypogonadism, expanding its research and development portfolio with additional metabolic therapies for men and women and sourcing new technologies through its business development efforts.

 

We believe JATENZO offers hypogonadal men and prescribing physicians a safe and effective oral replacement option and has a number of advantages over the currently approved replacement therapies, including:

 

CONVENIENT

 

Easy-to-swallow softgel taken BID with food (twice daily)

 

Dose adjustable

 

EFFECTIVE

 

87% of men achieved T levels in normal range

 

Restored T levels to mid-normal range

 

SAFE

 

Safety profile consistent with TRT class

 

No liver toxicity — JATENZO bypasses first-pass hepatic metabolism; liver toxicity not observed in clinical studies of up to 2 years duration.

 

In March 2019, our first commercial product, JATENZO, was approved by the FDA as a TRT for the treatment of adult men with hypogonadism due to certain medical conditions. JATENZO is the first oral T therapy approved by the FDA in more than 60 years. JATENZO is a T-ester prodrug created by the linkage of T with the fatty acid undecanoic acid to form T-undecanoate (“TU”). Once absorbed, TU, an inactive version of T, is converted by natural enzymes in the body to bioactive T. In February 2020, we commenced U.S. commercial sales of JATENZO and, as of December 31, 2020, JATENZO was available under health plans representing approximately 61% of U.S. commercial insured lives. Of these patients, 65% had access to JATENZO without having to try another T product first (e.g., generic or other branded option). For the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, JATENZO generated net revenues of approximately $2.8 million, and $5.1 million, respectively, demonstrating consistent prescription and sales growth despite the commercial challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. In August 2019, the FDA granted 3-year Hatch-Waxman market exclusivity to JATENZO, which prevents the FDA from granting full market approval to similar new drugs or generic competitors of JATENZO until March 27, 2022.

 

 

 

Our U.S. patent portfolio on JATENZO currently includes five issued patents expiring between March 2029 and December 2030. The issued U.S. patents contain claims to both pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment using our proprietary pharmaceutical composition and all are listed in the FDA Orange Book: Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations. In addition, we have several patent applications pending in the United States and other countries that, if issued, will cover pharmaceutical compositions, methods of treatment and other features of JATENZO, and have the potential to extend patent coverage beyond 2030.

 

We also have issued patents covering JATENZO in Australia, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Europe, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Africa and South Korea.

 

Since the beginning of our operations in 2004, we have focused primarily on developing and progressing JATENZO through clinical development, organizing and staffing, research and development activities, raising capital and commercial launch activities. We have one product approved for sale, JATENZO, as of June 30, 2021. We have funded operations primarily with proceeds from the sale of convertible preferred stock and debt through convertible and senior secured notes, including a royalty obligation. Through June 30, 2021, we have received gross proceeds of $104.2 million from investors in Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and Series D Preferred Stock, gross proceeds of $81.3 million from investors in our issued convertible debt and gross proceeds of $56.7 million from investors in issued senior secured notes and related royalty obligation.  

 

In April 2021, upon announcement of the Merger, our convertible noteholders and senior secured noteholders agreed to provide $25.0 million in additional capital to us following the contemplation and announcement of the Merger until its close. All such proceeds will convert to shares of Blue Water common stock at a price of $10.00 per share at the merger Closing. Through the date of this Current Report on Form 8-K, we have received all of the $25.0 million in additional capital from the sale of private placement convertible notes.

 

Since inception, we have incurred significant operating losses and have experienced negative operating cash flows. Our net losses were $18.1 million and $33.5 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021. As of June 30, 2021, we had an accumulated deficit of $359.3 million. We expect to continue to generate operating losses and negative operating cash flows for the foreseeable future if and as it:

 

continues to commercialize JATENZO in the United States for the treatment of adult males with a deficiency or absence of endogenous T;

 

incurs sales and marketing costs to support the commercialization of JATENZO;

 

pays royalties related to our senior secured notes agreement only until such time as the Merger closes;

 

incurs contractual manufacturing costs for JATENZO;

 

implements post-approval requirements related to JATENZO;

 

actively pursues additional indications and line extensions for JATENZO for the treatment of adult males with a deficiency or absence of endogenous T;

 

seeks to attract and retain new and existing skilled personnel;

 

invests in measures to protect and expand our intellectual property;

 

seeks to discover and develop additional product candidates;

 

seeks to in-license or acquire additional product candidates for other medical conditions;

 

adapts our regulatory compliance efforts to incorporate requirements applicable to marketed products;

 

maintains, expands and protects our intellectual property portfolio;

 

hires additional clinical, manufacturing and scientific personnel;

 

adds operational, financial and management information systems and personnel, including personnel to support our product development and planned future commercialization efforts;

 

creates additional infrastructure to support operations as a public company and incur increased legal, accounting, investor relations and other expenses; and

 

experiences delays or encounters issues with additional outbreaks of the pandemic in addition to any of the above.

 

2

 

We expect to incur significant expenses related to developing an internal commercialization capability to support product sales, marketing and distribution. Furthermore, we now expect to incur additional costs associated with operating as a public company, including significant legal, accounting, investor relations and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company.

 

As a result, we will need substantial additional funding to support our continuing operations and pursue our growth strategy. Until such time as we can generate significant revenue from product sales, if ever, we expect to finance our operations through a combination of private and public equity offerings, debt financings or other capital sources, which may include collaborations with other companies or other strategic transactions. To the extent that we raise additional capital through the sale of private or public equity or convertible debt securities, existing ownership interests will be diluted, and the terms of these securities may include liquidation or other preferences that adversely affect the rights of our equity holders. Private and public equity offerings and debt financings, if available, may involve agreements that include covenants limiting or restricting our ability to take specific actions, such as incurring additional debt, making acquisitions or capital expenditures or declaring dividends. If we raise additional funds through collaborations or other strategic transactions with third parties, we may have to relinquish valuable rights to our technologies, future revenue streams, research programs or drug candidates, or grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us. We may be unable to raise additional funds or enter into such other agreements or arrangements when needed on favorable terms, or at all. If we fail to raise capital or enter into such agreements as and when needed, we may have to significantly delay, scale back or discontinue the commercialization efforts of our product, JATENZO, and/or any product portfolio expansion.

 

Because of the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with being a commercial stage pharmaceutical company and our efforts to grow our business by means of product and business development, we are unable to predict the timing or amount of increased expenses or when or if we will be able to achieve or maintain profitability. We began product sales in 2020, and we it fail to become profitable or are unable to sustain profitability on a continuing basis, we may be unable to continue its operations at planned levels and be forced to reduce or terminate our operations.

 

We expect to continue to incur significant and increasing expenses and operating losses for the foreseeable future. These factors raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Management believes that our existing cash and cash equivalents of $10.3 million as of June 30, 2021, will not be sufficient to fund our operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements for the next 12 months without additional capital. See “— Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

 

COVID-19 Business Update

 

The business disruptions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on our financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and for the year ended December 31, 2020. Management expects that the public health actions being undertaken to reduce the spread of the virus, and that will have to be undertaken again in the event of a resurgence of the virus, will create significant disruptions to us with respect to: (i) the demand for our products, (ii) the ability of our sales representatives to reach healthcare customers, (iii) our ability to maintain staffing levels to support our operations, (iv) our ability to continue to manufacture certain of our products, (v) the reliability of our supply chain and (vi) our ability to achieve the financial covenants required by the senior secured notes agreement. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic will impact our business will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, such as the duration of the outbreak, travel restrictions and social distancing in the United States and other countries, business closures or business disruptions and the effectiveness of actions taken in the United States and other countries to contain and treat the disease.

 

We are closely monitoring the evolving impact of the pandemic on all aspects of our business. We have implemented a number of measures designed to protect the health and safety of our employees, support its customers and promote business continuity. We are also actively reviewing and implementing cost-saving measures including discontinuing or delaying all non-essential services and programs and instituting controls on travel, events, marketing and clinical studies to adapt the business plan for the evolving COVID-19 challenges.

 

We expect to have an adequate supply of JATENZO through the remainder of 2021. We are working closely with our third-party manufacturers, distributors and other partners to manage our supply chain activities and mitigate potential disruptions to product supplies as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

3

 

Merger

 

On September 9, 2021 (the “Closing Date”), Blue Water Acquisition Corp. (“Blue Water”, or “BLUW”), a Delaware corporation and Special Purpose Acquisition Company (“SPAC”) and Blue Water Merger Sub Corp., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Blue Water (“Merger Sub”), consummated the previously announced merger, dated as of April 27, 2021, with Clarus Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Clarus”), pursuant to which, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, the Merger Sub merged with and into Clarus, with Clarus surviving as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Blue Water, and with Clarus’s equity holders and convertible debt holders equity interests converted into the right to receive shares of New Blue Water common stock or else be canceled, retired and terminated without consideration, as provided in the Merger Agreement. Upon the consummation of the Merger, Blue Water changed its name to “Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.”

 

As a result of the Merger, the Combined Entity operates under our current management team. Dr. Dudley serves as the Combined Entity’s Chief Executive Officer and President. Frank Jaeger, our Chief Commercial Officer, and the architect of AndroGel 1.62%’s sales and marketing efforts that resulted in annual peak sales of over $1 billion, will continue to lead commercialization efforts for JATENZO. Mr. Jaeger has built a team with vast experience in the TRT field. Kimberly Murphy, former VP, Global Vaccines Commercialization (Influenza) at GSK joined our board as Chairperson after the Closing.

 

In conjunction with the Merger Agreement, our convertible noteholders and senior secured noteholders provided $25.0 million in additional capital to us following announcement of the Merger until its closing. As of the Closing, We have received all of the $25.0 million in additional capital from the sale of private placement notes.

 

The total $25.0 million borrowed plus accrued interest converted into shares of Blue Water common stock at a price of $10.00 per share at the merger closing.

 

Subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement, at the effective time of the merger (the “Effective Time”), our Series D Convertible Notes including principal and interest and the shares of our redeemable convertible Series D Preferred Stock, including accumulated dividends, issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time converted into shares of the Combined Entity’s common stock and outstanding warrants to acquire our shares were assumed in the Merger and became exercisable for an aggregate 9,246 shares of the Combined Entity’s common stock. Certain of our senior secured noteholders received an aggregate of 1,905,000 shares of the Combined Entity’s common stock in exchange for $10.0 million reduction in senior secured note debt outstanding at the close of the Merger, certain outstanding royalty rights and additional forbearance (which includes 135,000 shares received from the Sponsor). All other of our preferred stock, common stock and stock options were cancelled and extinguished at the Effective Time.

 

Components of Our Results of Operations

 

Product Revenue

 

We did not generate any product revenue from inception until 2020. Our first commercial product, JATENZO, was approved by the FDA as a treatment for adult males with a deficiency or absence of endogenous testosterone, in March 2019 and became commercially available in February 2020.

 

Total revenue consists of net sales of JATENZO. Net sales represent the gross sales of JATENZO less provisions for product sales discounts and allowances. These provisions include trade allowances, rebates to government and commercial entities, copay costs and other customary sales discounts. Although we expect net sales to increase over time, the provisions for product sales discounts and allowances may fluctuate based on the mix of sales to different customer segments and/or changes in accrual estimates. For further discussion of the components of revenue see “— Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Estimates.”

 

Cost of Product Sales

 

Cost of product sales includes manufacturing and distribution costs, the cost of the drug substance, FDA program fees, royalties due to third parties on net product sales, freight, shipping, handling, storage costs and salaries of employees involved with production. We began capitalizing inventory upon FDA approval of JATENZO. A portion of the inventory sold during the year ended December 31, 2020 was produced prior to FDA approval and, therefore, expensed previously as research and development expense in 2019 in the amount of $0.7 million.

 

4

 

We expect that our cost of product sales will increase moderately in the near term as it ramps up production to meet anticipated demand for JATENZO.

 

The shelf life of JATENZO is thirty months from the date of manufacture, with earliest expiration of current inventory expected to be November 2021. Due to the low rate of inventory turnover generated by our commercial launch efforts for JATENZO during a global pandemic, we recorded a reserve for inventory obsolescence of $7.8 million in the six months ended June 30, 2020. Absent this charge, the gross profit for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and the year ended December 31, 2020 was $1.5 million and $5.5 million, respectively. We will continue to assess obsolescence in future periods as demand for JATENZO and the rate of inventory turnover evolves.

 

Operating Expenses

 

Selling and Marketing Expenses

 

Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of commercialization expenses related to JATENZO, commercially launched in February of 2020. Prior to the commercial launch, we had significantly lower selling and marketing expenses. We anticipate that our sales and marketing expenses will increase in 2021 as we continue to expand our commercialization of JATENZO.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses consist primarily of employee-related expenses, such as salaries, stock-based compensation, benefits and travel expenses for personnel in executive, legal, finance and accounting, human resources, and other administrative departments. General and administrative expenses also consist of office leases, and professional fees, including legal, tax and accounting and consulting fees.

 

We anticipate that our general and administrative expenses will increase in the future to support continued commercialization efforts, ongoing and future potential research and development activities, and increased costs of operating as a public company. These increases will likely include increased costs related to the hiring of additional personnel and fees paid to outside consultants, lawyers and accountants, among other expenses. Additionally, we anticipate increased costs associated with being a public company, including expenses related to services associated with maintaining compliance with the requirements of Nasdaq and the SEC, insurance and investor relations costs.

 

Research and Development Expenses

 

Research and development expenses have primarily been limited to clinical trials, and chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (“CMC”), and CMC activities related to JATENZO. Our research and development costs as incurred, include:

 

salaries, benefits and other related costs, including stock-based compensation expense, for personnel engaged in research and development functions;

 

costs of manufacturing and pharmaceutical development expense related to JATENZO; and

 

costs of outside consultants, including their fees and related travel expenses engaged in research and development functions.

 

We currently have one product, JATENZO, and do not currently track internal research and development expenses on an indication-by-indication basis as they primarily relate to personnel, early research and consumable costs, which are deployed across multiple programs. A significant portion of research and development costs are external costs, such as fees paid to consultants, central laboratories, contractors, contract manufacturing organizations, contract research organizations and companies that manufacture clinical trial materials and potential future commercial supplies. Inventory acquired prior to receipt of the marketing approval of JATENZO was recorded as research and development expense as incurred. We began capitalizing the costs associated with the production of JATENZO after the FDA approval in March 2019.

 

Our research and development expenses are expected to increase in the foreseeable future. Specifically, our costs will increase as we conduct additional clinical trials for JATENZO and conduct further developmental activities for Clarus’s R&D pipeline programs.

 

5

 

Total Other Income (Expense), Net

 

Change in Fair Value of Warrant Liability and Derivative Liability

 

Change in fair value of warrant liability relates to the change in value of our liability-classified Series D Preferred Stock warrants and convertible notes derivative liability, which were recognized in connection with our equity financing and certain borrowing arrangements. Such instruments no longer require remeasurement at fair value option due to completion of the Merger. As the fair value of Series D convertible notes and Series D warrants at June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020 was less than the Series D Preferred Stock issuance price of $4.50, the fair value of the derivative liability and warrant liability was reduced to zero.

 

Interest Income

 

Interest income related to our operating bank accounts, including money market funds.

 

Interest Expense

 

Interest expense related to our convertible notes, senior secured notes and debt discount amortization.

 

Results of Operations

 

Comparison of the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020

 

The following table summarizes our results of operations for the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

 

    Three Months Ended June 30,        
    2021     2020     Change  
Net product revenue   $ 2,779     $ 822     $ 1,957  
Cost of product sales     554       103       451  
Gross profit     2,225       719       1,506  
Operating expenses:                        
Sales and marketing     9,530       9,875       (345 )
General and administrative     4,802       2,012       3,315  
Research and development     1,131       429       177  
Total operating expenses     15,463       12,316       3,147  
Loss from operations     (13,238 )     (11,597 )     (1,641 )
Other (expense) income, net:                        
Change in fair value of warrant liability and derivative, net           26,462       (26,462 )
Interest income           9       (9 )
Interest expense     (4,877 )     (4,319 )     (558 )
Total other (expense) income, net     (4,877 )     22,152       (27,029 )
Net (loss) income   $ (18,115 )   $ 10,555     $ (28,670 )

 

Net Product Revenue

 

For the three months ended June 30, 2021, we recorded $2.8 million of net product revenue, which increased by $2.0 million from $0.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in net revenue is related to the timing of when JATENZO became commercially available for sale. We did not begin commercially selling JATENZO within the United States until February 2020, following FDA approval in March 2019.

 

Cost of Product Sales

 

Cost of sales was $0.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2021, which increased by $0.5 million, from $0.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in cost of sales is related to an increase in revenue.

 

6

 

Sales and Marketing Expenses

 

Sales and marketing expenses were $9.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2021, which decreased by $0.3 million, from $9.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease in sales and marketing expenses was primarily attributable to the following:

 

  A $0.9 million decrease in outsourced advertising and promotion costs;

 

a $0.6 million increase in commercial analytic costs; and

 

a $0.1 million decrease in patient assistance costs.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses were $4.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2021, which increased by $2.8 million, from $2.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in general and administrative expenses was primarily attributable to the following:

 

  A $1.0 million increase in personnel costs, including stock-based compensation expense, primarily due to an increase in headcount and external consultants;

 

  a $1.7 million increase in consulting and professional fees, primarily due to an increase in legal fees related to patents; and

 

a $0.1 million increase in insurance fees, related to directors and officers insurance.

 

Research and Development Expenses

 

Research and development expenses were $1.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2021, which increased by $0.7 million from $0.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in research and development expenses was primarily attributable to the following:

 

  A $0.2 million increase in costs related to phase IV studies related to the development of JATENZO, our lead commercial product.
     
  A $0.5 million increase in license fees related to the License Agreement with HavaH Therapeutics (the “HavaH Agreement”).

 

Other (Expense)Income, Net

 

Total other expense, net was $4.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2021, compared to income of $22.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease of $27.0 million was primarily related to a $26.5 million decrease in the change in fair value of the warrant liability and derivative and an increase in interest expense of $0.5 million, related to an increase of $0.2 million in interest incurred with related parties and an increase of $0.3 in interest incurred with third parties.

 

Comparison of the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020

 

The following table summarizes our results of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

 

    Six Months Ended June 30,        
    2021     2020     Change  
Net product revenue   $ 5,109     $ 1,719     $ 3,390  
Cost of product sales     921       8,071       (7,150 )
Gross profit (loss)     4,188       (6,352 )     10,540  
Operating expenses:                        
Sales and marketing     17,467       14,824       2,643  
General and administrative     8,407       5,221       3,711  
Research and development     2,342       1,381       436  
Total operating expenses     28,216       21,426       6,790  
Loss from operations     (24,028 )     (27,778 )     3,750  
Other (expense) income, net:                        
Change in fair value of warrant liability and derivative, net           32,915       (32,915 )
Interest income           23       (23 )
Interest expense     (9,517 )     (6,499 )     (3,018 )
Total other (expense) income, net     (9,517 )     26,439       (35,956 )
Net (loss)   $ (33,545 )   $ (1,339 )   $ (32,206 )

 

7

 

Net Product Revenue

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2021, we recorded $5.1 million of net product revenue, which increased by $3.4 million from $1.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in net revenue is related to the timing of when JATENZO became commercially available for sale. We did not begin commercially selling JATENZO within the United States until February 2020, following FDA approval in March 2019.

 

Cost of Product Sales

 

Cost of sales was $0.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, which decreased by $7.1 million, from $8.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease in cost of sales is related to a reserve for inventory obsolescence of $7.8 million recorded in the six months ended June 30, 2020.

 

Sales and Marketing Expenses

 

Sales and marketing expenses were $17.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, which increased by $2.6 million, from $14.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in sales and marketing expenses was primarily attributable to the following:

 

A $1.1 million increase in outsourced advertising and promotion costs;

 

a $1.2 million increase in commercial analytic costs;

 

a $0.2 million increase in patient assistance costs; and

 

a $0.1 million increase in distribution fees.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses were $8.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, which increased by $3.2 million, from $5.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in general and administrative expenses was primarily attributable to the following:

 

  A $1.6 million increase in personnel costs, including stock-based compensation expense, primarily due to an increase headcount and external consultants;

 

  a $1.4 million increase in consulting and professional fees, primarily due to a increase in legal fees related to patents; and

 

a $0.2 million increase in insurance fees, related to directors and officers insurance.

 

8

 

 

Research and Development Expenses

 

Research and development expenses were $2.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, which increased by $1.0 million from $1.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in research and development expenses was primarily attributable to the following:

 

A $1.0 million increase in costs related to phase IV studies related to the development of JATENZO, our lead commercial product.

 

 

a $0.6 million decrease in costs related to research and development consulting services.

 

  A $0.5 million increase in license fees related to the HavaH Agreement.

 

Other (Expense) Income, Net

 

Total other expense, net was $9.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, compared to income of $26.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease of $36.0 million was primarily related to a $32.9 million decrease in the change in fair value of the warrant liability and derivative and an increase in interest expense of $3.0 million, related to an increase of $0.4 million in interest incurred with related parties and an increase of $2.6 million in interest incurred with third parties.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Sources of Liquidity

 

Since inception, we have incurred significant operating losses, have experienced negative operating cash flows and have accumulated significant accrued liabilities. Our net loss was $18.1 million and $33.5 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively. As of June 30, 2021, we had an accumulated deficit of $359.3 million. We expect to continue to generate operating losses and negative operating cash flows for the foreseeable future. As a result, even with proceeds from the Merger, we will need substantial additional funding to support our continuing operations and pursue our growth strategy. Until such time as it can generate significant revenue from product sales, if ever, we expect to finance our operations through a combination of private and public equity offerings, debt financings or other capital sources, which may include collaborations with other companies or other strategic transactions.

 

Merger

 

On September 9, 2021, Blue Water and Merger Sub consummated the previously announced merger, dated as of April 27, 2021, with us. In connection with the Merger, our convertible noteholders and senior secured noteholders provided $25.0 million in additional capital to us following the announcement of the Merger. All such proceeds and accrued interest converted to shares of Blue Water common stock at a price of $10.00 per share at the Closing Date. Together with Blue Water’s cash resources and additional capital, we received gross proceeds from the Merger  (not including the $25.0 million of additional capital) of approximately $25.3 million.

 

Convertible Promissory Notes

 

On various dates from 2016 to 2021, we entered into note purchase agreements, pursuant to which we borrowed an aggregate of $81.3 million from related party investors as of June 30, 2020. The carrying value of all convertible notes as of June 30, 2021 was $98.1 million. In July 2021, we entered into additional note purchase agreements pursuant to which we borrowed an aggregate of $3.6 million from existing investors. All convertible notes had the option to convert into Series D Preferred Stock at an exercise price of $4.50.

 

Senior Secured Notes

 

On March 12, 2020, we issued and sold senior secured notes to certain lenders not related to us. Gross proceeds from the senior secured notes were $50.0 million, and we received $42.7 million in net proceeds after deducting the original issue discount, interest reserve and transaction expenses.

 

The senior secured notes, currently bear interest at a rate of 14.5% per annum, are secured by substantially all of our assets and intellectual property, and mature in March 2025. The senior secured notes provide for semi-annual payments on March 1 and September 1. Until March 2022, only interest is payable on the notes, with payments in the amount of $3.920 million due on September 1, 2021 and $3.852 million due on March 1, 2022. As of the date of the current report on Form 8-K to which this document is filed as an exhibit, we have not yet paid the interest payment due September 1, 2021 pursuant to a 30-day grace period.

 

Beginning with the payment due September 1, 2022, in addition to interest payments, we are required to make principal payments of $6.0 million on each of September 1, 2022, March 1, 2023, September 1, 2023 and March 1, 2024. Thereafter, in addition to interest payments, we are required to make principal payments of $8.0 million on each of September 1, 2024 and March 1, 2025. Additionally, on February 1, 2023, we are required to make a payment of principal in the amount of $3.125 million, which is the amount of a PIK Note (defined below) issued May 27, 2021, plus accrued and unpaid interest in respect of such principal, as discussed below.

 

9

 

The senior secured notes also have a detachable royalty feature under which the lenders receive a royalty of 0.56% to 1.67% on net sales beginning in 2021, with the royalty obligation continuing until the lenders receive total royalty payments of approximately $24.2 million. Proceeds were used to finance the commercial launch of JATENZO in 2020.

 

On March 17, 2021, we entered into a forbearance agreement with noteholders in relation to the senior secured notes. We were unable to and did not pay interest of $3.1 million due on March 1, 2021. As of March 31, 2021, we entered into default on our senior secured notes, and in accordance with the terms of the senior secured notes, the interest rate increased 2.0% from 12.5% to 14.5%.

 

Under the forbearance agreement, in exchange for the noteholders’ agreement not to exercise their rights to retrieve the funds owed, we were required to maintain cash and cash equivalents of at least $2.5 million amongst other financial budgeting and reporting requirements until consummation of the Merger. Per the written consent, the forbearance period would not be terminated on April 15, 2021, provided that we, amongst other things, executed the Merger Agreement and provided financial reporting requirements by April 27, 2021.

 

In August 2021, we entered into forbearance extensions with the noteholders in relation to the senior secured notes. The latest forbearance extension, entered into on August 26, 2021, extended the forbearance period through September 9, 2021, the consummation date of the Merger. In May 2021, we entered into a payment-in-kind, or PIK, note (the “PIK Note”), in relation to our missed interest payment (which was due in March 2021) on our senior secured notes, pursuant to which we borrowed an aggregate of $3.1 million from the senior secured noteholders, to be included in the principal senior secured notes balance. The PIK Note accrues interest at a rate of 14.5%, compounded daily. Pursuant to the PIK Note, on February 1, 2023 we are required to make a payment of principal in the amount of $3.1 million, plus accrued and unpaid interest in respect of such principal.

 

In June 2021, we entered into the Indenture Note, pursuant to which we borrowed an aggregate of $5.0 million from senior secured noteholders, to be included in the principal senior secured notes balance. The Indenture Note accrues interest at a rate of 14.5%, compounded daily, and was repaid with the combined entity’s common stock upon the date of consummation of the Merger.

 

As of the Closing Date and following the completion of the Business Combination, there is approximately $43.125 million of principal (including principal of $3.125 million in respect of the PIK Note), plus accrued interest, outstanding under the senior secured notes.

 

Cash Flows

 

The following table summarizes our cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

 

   

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 
    2021     2020  
Net cash used in operating activities     (21,935 )     (23,359 )
Net cash used in investing activities     (20 )     (60 )
Net cash provided by financing activities     25,000       47,220  
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents   $ 3,045     $ 23,801  

 

Operating Activities

 

Net cash used in operating activities was $21.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, reflecting net loss of $33.5 million, offset by a net change of $1.7 million in net operating assets and non-cash charges of $9.9 million. The non-cash charges primarily consist of non-cash interest expense on debt financings and the royalty obligation, stock-based compensation expense and depreciation. The change in net operating assets and liabilities was primarily due to an increase in inventory of $3.9 million, an increase in accounts receivable of $1.8 million, an increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets of $0.1 million, a decrease in deferred revenue of $0.1 million, partially offset by an increase in accounts payable of $1.4 million and an increase in accrued expenses of $6.4 million.

 

Net cash used in operating activities was $23.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020, reflecting a net loss of $1.3 million, offset by a net change of $4.2 million in net operating assets and non-cash charges of $26.3 million. The non-cash charges primarily consist of the change in fair value of the warrant liability and derivative liability, non-cash interest expense on debt financings and the royalty obligation, stock-based compensation expense and depreciation. The change in net operating assets and liabilities was primarily due to an increase in accounts receivable of $1.0 million, an increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets of $3.7 million, an increase in accrued expenses of $3.6 million, partially offset by a decrease in inventory of $2.8 million, an increase in accounts payable of $2.3 million an increase in deferred revenue of $0.2 million.

 

Investing Activities

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, we used approximately $20,000 and $60,000, respectively, of cash in investing activities for purchases of property and equipment.

 

10

 

Financing Activities

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2021, net cash provided by financing activities was $25.0 million, related to $20.0 million of proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes payable and $5.0 million of gross proceeds from the issuance of senior notes payable.

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2020, net cash provided by financing activities was $47.2 million, primarily related to $49.1 million of gross proceeds received from the issuance of senior notes and related royalty obligation, and $1.6 million of gross proceeds received from the issuance of convertible note, partially offset by debt issuance costs paid of $3.5 million.

 

Funding Requirements

 

Our primary use of cash is to fund operating expenses, primarily related to our selling and marketing activities associated with the commercialization of JATENZO and our research and development activities. Cash used to fund operating expenses is impacted by the timing of when we pay these expenses, as reflected in the change in our outstanding accounts payable, accrued expenses and prepaid expenses. Until such time, if ever, we can generate substantial product revenues, we expect to finance our cash needs through a combination of equity offerings, debt financings, collaborations, strategic alliances and licensing arrangements. Our ability to raise additional capital may be adversely impacted by potential worsening global economic conditions and the recent disruptions to, and volatility in, the credit and financial markets in the United States and worldwide resulting from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. To the extent that we raise additional capital through the sale of equity or convertible debt securities, ownership interests of existing stockholders may be diluted, and the terms of these securities may include liquidation or other preferences that adversely affect our existing stockholders’ rights. Debt financing, if available, may involve agreements that include covenants limiting or restricting our ability to take specific actions, such as incurring additional debt, making capital expenditures or declaring dividends.

 

If funding permits, we would expect our expenses to increase substantially in connection with its ongoing activities, particularly as we advance the commercialization of our product JATENZO. In addition, , we now expect to incur additional costs associated with operating as a public company, including significant legal, accounting, investor relations and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company.

 

Going Concern

 

We expect as a public entity post-Merger, that our revenue generated from the sales of JATENZO along with existing cash and cash equivalents of $10.3 million and proceeds from the Merger will not be sufficient to fund our operating expenses in order to maximize the commercial launch of JATENZO and capital expenditure requirements for 12 months from through at least 12 months from the date that our condensed financial statements are available to be issued. Since our inception, we have devoted substantially all our efforts to business planning, clinical development, commercial planning and raising capital. We have incurred losses since inception and have an accumulated deficit of $359.3 million as of June 30, 2021, including $101.7 million of cumulative accretion on our Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series A Preferred Stock”), Series B Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series B Preferred Stock”), Series C Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series C Preferred Stock”) and Series D Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series D Preferred Stock”) (collectively, “Preferred Stock”), and $99.0 million of cumulative non-cash interest related to previously issued convertible notes. We are also in forbearance and default on our March 12, 2020 senior secured notes, as we were unable to maintain at least $10.0 million in cash and cash equivalents as of the last day of each calendar month beginning December 2020 and were unable to pay the required $3.1 million interest payment due in March 2021.

 

In addition to the Merger and the related investment, we plan to seek additional funding through the expansion of our commercial efforts to grow JATENZO and our operating cash flow, business development efforts to out-license JATENZO internationally, equity financings, debt financings such as the secured notes, or other capital sources including collaborations with other companies or other strategic arrangements with third parties. There can be no assurance that these future financing efforts will be successful.

 

If we are unable to obtain funding or generate operating cash flow, we will be forced to delay, reduce or eliminate some or all of our product portfolio expansion or commercialization efforts, which could adversely affect our business prospects, or we may be unable to continue operations. Although management continues to pursue these plans, there is no assurance that we will be successful in obtaining sufficient funding on terms acceptable to us to fund continuing operations, if at all. The terms of any financing may adversely affect the holdings or the rights of our stockholders.

 

11

 

Working Capital

 

Because of the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with research, development and commercialization of JATENZO and our research and development portfolio, we are unable to estimate the exact amount of our working capital requirements. Our future funding requirements will depend on and could increase significantly as a result of many factors, including:

 

The costs, timing and ability to manufacture JATENZO;

 

the costs of future activities, including product sales, marketing, manufacturing and distribution of JATENZO;

 

the costs of manufacturing commercial-grade product and necessary inventory to support continued commercial launch;

 

the costs of potential milestones related to license agreements;

 

the ability to receive additional non-dilutive funding, including grants from organizations and foundations;

 

the revenue from commercial sale of its products;

 

the costs of preparing, filing and prosecuting patent applications, obtaining, maintaining, expanding and enforcing its intellectual property rights and defending intellectual property-related claims; and

 

  our ability to establish and maintain collaborations on favorable terms, if at all.

 

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

 

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of June 30, 2021, and the effects such obligations are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flow in future periods (in thousands):

 

Contractual obligation   Total     Less than 1
year
    More than
1 year and
less than 3
    More than
3 years and
less than 5
    More than
5 years
 
       
Convertible promissory notes   $ 78,722     $     $     $

78,722

    $

-

 
Interest on convertible promissory notes (1)     33,659       8,212       18,560       6,887      

-

 
Senior secured notes     58,125       -       38,125       20,000       -  
Interest on senior secured notes (2)     21,568       7,771       11,622       2,175       -  
Operating lease obligations (3)     63       58       5       -       -  
Catalent Agreement purchase obligation     13,646       3,639       7,278       2,729       -  
Pfizer Agreement purchase obligation     4,719       1,849       2,870       -       -  
Total   $ 10,502     $ 21,529     $ 78,460     $ 110,513     $ 0  

 

 

(1) We have outstanding convertible promissory notes of $78.7 million, which have a stated interest rate of 8% and mature on March 1, 2025.

(2) We have borrowed $58.1 million through issuing our senior secured notes that bear interest at 14.5% and mature on March 1, 2025.

(3) We have an operating lease agreement for our office space.

 

The commitment amounts in the table above are associated with contracts that are enforceable and legally binding and that specify all significant terms, including fixed or minimum services to be used, fixed, minimum or variable price provisions, and the approximate timing of the actions under the contracts.

 

12

 

Purchase Obligations

 

In July 2009, we entered into a commercial manufacturing agreement, as amended, with Catalent Pharma Solutions, LLC (the “Catalent Agreement”). Pursuant to the terms of the Catalent Agreement, we must make minimum annual purchases of JATENZO softgel capsules, through the initial term, or March 2025. Any shortfall between the minimum annual purchase quantities and actual purchases will be multiplied by a unit price, as defined in the Catalent Agreement, and paid to Catalent within 30 days of any year-end that the minimum purchase requirement is not met. We have not made any payments to Catalent as a result of a shortfall in minimum purchase quantities. The Catalent Agreement renews automatically for two-year periods and either party may terminate the contract upon twelve months, written notice. Purchases under the Catalent Agreement for the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 were $1.7 million and $0.2 million, respectively. Purchases under the Catalent Agreement for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 were $5.1 million and $3.0 million, respectively.

 

We entered into a product supply agreement with Pharmacia & Upjohn Company LLC, or Pfizer (the “Pfizer Agreement”), effective January 1, 2021. Pursuant to the terms of the Pfizer Agreement, we must make minimum annual purchases of T-undecanoate equal to approximately $1.8 million per year, through the initial term, or January 2024. If there is a shortfall between the minimum annual purchase quantities and actual purchases, the difference between the minimum annual purchase amount and actual purchases will be paid to Pfizer. There were no purchases under the Pfizer Agreement during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Lease Commitments

 

We have entered into operating leases for rental space in Northbrook, Illinois and Murfreesboro, Tennessee that extend into December 31, 2021 and September 30, 2022, respectively. The table above includes future minimum lease payments under the non-cancelable lease arrangements.

 

We enter into contracts in the normal course of business with clinical trial sites, clinical and commercial supply manufacturers, and other services and products for operating purposes. These contracts generally provide for termination after a notice period, and, therefore, are cancelable contracts and not included in the table above.

 

Long-Term Debt Commitments

 

As discussed above and in Note 7 of our financial statements appearing elsewhere in this Current Report on Form 8-K, we have both convertible promissory notes and senior secured notes that are included in the table above.

 

License Agreement Commitments

 

In May 2021, we entered into a license agreement (the “HavaH Agreement”) with HavaH Therapeutics, or HavaH, an Australia-based biopharmaceutical company developing androgen therapies for inflammatory breast disease and certain forms of breast cancer. Under the HavaH Agreement, we will acquire the development and commercialization rights for HavaH T+Ai, to be renamed CLAR-121.

 

Under the terms of the licensing agreement, we made an upfront payment of $0.5 million and HavaH may be eligible for up to $10.8 million in potential development and regulatory milestone payments. Additionally, HavaH would be eligible for royalty payments and up to $30.0 million in potential commercial milestones. Such royalty payments will be based on total aggregate annual net sales of CLAR-121 in the territory, at a low single digit percentage rate (when there is no patent protection or regulatory exclusivity) or a low teens percentage rate (where CLAR-121 has patent protection or regulatory exclusivity). Additionally, such royalties are payable until the later of ten years or the loss of patent protection or regulatory exclusivity.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Estimates

 

There have been no significant changes to our critical accounting policies from those described in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” disclosed in our most recent annual financial statements within our Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Reg. No. 333-256116), filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) on July 23, 2021.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We did not have during the periods presented, and we do not currently have, any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined in the rules and regulations of the SEC.

 

13

 

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

See Note 2 to our annual financial statements appearing in our audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020 included in our final prospectus that forms part of Blue Water’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Reg. No. 333-256116), filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) on July 23, 2021

 

Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures about Market Risks

 

We are exposed to certain market risks in the ordinary course of its business. Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact its financial position due to adverse changes in financial market prices and rates. Our market risk exposure primarily relates to changes interest rates.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Our primary exposure to market risk is interest rate sensitivity, which is affected by changes in the general level of U.S. interest rates, particularly because our cash equivalents are in the form of money market funds and our long-term debt financings. As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had cash and cash equivalents of $10.3 million and $7.2 million, respectively. Interest income is sensitive to changes in the general level of interest rates; however, due to the nature of these investments, an immediate 10% change in interest rates would not have a material effect on the fair market value of our investment portfolio.

 

As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, $139.4 million and $111.3 million, respectively, in aggregate principal amount of our outstanding debt obligations were at fixed interest rates, representing approximately 100 percent of our total debt, on an amortized cost basis. As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, our outstanding debt obligations at fixed interest rates were comprised of convertible promissory notes and senior notes.

 

Emerging Growth Company Status

 

The Combined Entity is expected to be an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jobs Act and may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies. The Combined Entity may take advantage of these exemptions until it is no longer an emerging growth company under Section 107 of the JOBS Act, which provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of the extended transition period afforded by the JOBS Act for the implementation of new or revised accounting standards. The Combined Entity expects to avail itself of the extended transition period and, therefore, while the Combined Entity is an emerging growth company, it will not be subject to new or revised accounting standards the same time that they become applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies, unless it chooses to early adopt a new or revised accounting standard.

 

 

14

 

  

Exhibit 99.3

 

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Exhibit 99.3 shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Current Report on Form 8-K (the “Form 8-K”) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 15, 2021 and, if not defined in the Form 8-K, the Proxy Statement.

 

The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements of Blue Water present the combination of the historical financial information of Blue Water and Clarus adjusted to give effect to the Business Combination and the private placement received in the third quarter of 2021. The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2021, combines the historical balance sheet of Blue Water and the historical balance sheet of Clarus as of June 30, 2021, on a pro forma basis as if the Business Combination and related transactions, summarized below, had been consummated on June 30, 2021.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2021, and year ended December 31, 2020, combine the historical statements of operations of Blue Water and Clarus for such periods on a pro forma basis as if the Business Combination and related transactions had been consummated on January 1, 2020, the beginning of the earliest period presented.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements have been developed from and should be read in conjunction with:

 

the accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements;

 

the historical unaudited financial statements of Blue Water as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2021, and the historical audited financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020, and the related notes thereto;

 

the historical unaudited financial statements of Clarus as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2021, and the related notes thereto, included in this Current Report on Form 8-K, Exhibit 99.3, and the historical audited financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020, and the related notes thereto, included in the Proxy Statement; and

 

the sections entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Blue Water,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Clarus,” and other financial information relating to Blue Water and Clarus included elsewhere in the proxy statement/prospectus, incorporated by reference.

 

 

 

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been presented for illustrative purposes only and does not necessarily reflect what the Combined Entity’s financial condition or results of operations would have been had the Business Combination, convertible notes issuance and private placement occurred on the dates indicated. Further, the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information also may not be useful in predicting the future financial condition and results of operations of the Combined Entity. The actual financial position and results of operations may differ significantly from the pro forma amounts reflected herein due to a variety of factors. The unaudited transaction accounting adjustments represent management’s estimates based on information available as of the date of this unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information and are subject to change as additional information becomes available and analyses are performed. Assumptions and estimates underlying the unaudited pro forma adjustments set forth in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements are described in the accompanying notes. The Combined Entity believes that its assumptions and methodologies provide a reasonable basis for presenting all the significant effects of the Business Combination, convertible notes issuance and private placement based on information available to management at this time and that the transaction accounting adjustments give appropriate effect to those assumptions and are properly applied in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information.

 

Pursuant to the Merger Agreement dated April 27, 2021, between Blue Water, Merger Sub and Clarus, the Business Combination was consummated on September 9, 2021. Upon the closing of the Business Combination, Merger Sub merged with and into Clarus, with Clarus as the surviving company in the Merger. Upon the closing of the Business Combination, Blue Water changed its name to “Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.”. The Business Combination was accounted for as a reverse recapitalization, in which Clarus issued stock for the net assets of Blue Water, accompanied by a recapitalization. The net assets of Blue Water are stated at historical cost, with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded upon closing. Historical operations of the Combined Entity will be those of Clarus.

 

The aggregate consideration issued or reserved for issuance to Clarus securityholders upon the closing of the Merger was 17,895,594 shares of common stock. The 17,895,594 shares includes an aggregate of 1,770,000 shares of common stock, which were issued to the holders of senior secured notes in connection with the Merger Agreement and additional forbearance and were in exchange for $10.0 million of aggregate principal amount of non-convertible promissory notes and certain outstanding royalty rights. The senior secured noteholders also received an aggregate 135,000 shares from the Sponsor pursuant to the Share Allocation Agreement. Within the aggregate shares issued to Clarus securityholders is also 2,558,705 shares of common stock at $10.00 per share, that were issued to Clarus equity holders for the private placement Additional Closing Shares, of which such noteholders provided gross proceeds of $25.0 million, from the date of Merger Agreement signature through consummation.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information herein incorporates the results of Blue Water’s public stockholders having elected to redeem their Public Shares for cash upon the approval of the Business Combination.

 

2

 

 

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF JUNE 30, 2021
(in thousands)

 

    (A)
Clarus Historical
    Private Placement         Clarus Pro Forma     (B)
Blue Water Historical
    Transaction Accounting Adjustments         Pro Forma Combined  
Assets                                            
Current assets:                                            
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 10,278     $ 7,184     3(a)   $ 17,462     $ 225     $ 16,908     3(b)   $ 34,595  
Accounts receivable, net     6,229                   6,229       -       -           6,229  
Inventory     9,761                   9,761       -       -           9,761  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets     1,985                   1,985       115       -           2,100  
Total current assets     28,253       7,184           35,437       340       16,908           52,685  
Property and equipment, net     73                   73       -       -           73  
Investments held in Trust Account     -                   -       58,653       (58,653 )   3(b)     -  
Total assets   $ 28,326     $ 7,184         $ 35,510     $ 58,993     $ (41,745 )       $ 52,758  
                                                         
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity (Deficit)                                                        
Current liabilities:                                                        
Senior notes payable   $ 51,297                 $ 51,297     $ -     $ (10,000 )   3(d)   $ 41,297  
Accounts payable     13,463                   13,463       118                   13,581  
Accrued expenses     11,002                   11,002       812       348     3(c)     12,162  
Due to related party     -                   -       60       -           60  
Accrued taxes     -                   -       348       (348 )   3(c)     -  
Deferred revenue     1,048                   1,048       -       -           1,048  
Total current liabilities     76,810       -           76,810       1,338       (10,000 )         68,148  
Deferred underwriting commissions     -                   -       2,012       (2,012 )   3(b)     -  
Derivative warrant liabilities     -                   -       7,252       -           7,252  
Convertible notes payable to related parties     98,130       7,184     3(a)     105,314       -       (105,314 )   3(d)     -  
Royalty obligation     10,802                   10,802       -       (10,802 )   3(d)     -  
Total liabilities     185,742       7,184           192,926       10,602       (128,128 )         75,400  
                                                         
Series A redeemable convertible preferred stock     9,537                   9,537       -       (9,537 )   3(d)     -  
Series B redeemable convertible preferred stock     15,722                   15,722       -       (15,722 )   3(d)     -  
Series C redeemable convertible preferred stock     20,859                   20,859               (20,859 )   3(d)     -  
Series D redeemable convertible preferred stock     151,345                   151,345       -       (151,345 )   3(d)     -  
Total convertible preferred stock     197,463       -           197,463       -       (197,463 )         -  
Common stock subject to redemption     -                   -       43,391       (43,391 )   3(d)     -  
Stockholders’ Equity                                                        
Common stock     3                   3       -       (3 )   3(d)     -  
Class A Common Stock     -                   -       -       2     3(d)     2  
Class B Common Stock     -                   -       -       -           -  
Additional paid-in capital     4,443                   4,443       2,597       291,471     3(d)     298,511  
Accumulated deficit     (359,325 )                 (359,325 )     2,403       35,767     3(d)     (321,155 )
Total Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)     (354,879 )     -           (354,879 )     5,000       327,237           (22,642 )
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)   $ 28,326     $ 7,184         $ 35,510     $ 58,993     $ (41,745 )       $ 52,758  

 

See accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information.

 

3

 

 

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2021
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    (A)
Clarus Historical
    (B)
Blue Water Historical
    Transaction Accounting Adjustments         Pro Forma Combined  
Net product revenue   $ 5,109     $ -     $ -         $ 5,109  
Cost of product sales     921       -       -           921  
Gross profit     4,188       -       -           4,188  
Operating expenses:                                    
Sales and marketing     17,467       -       -           17,467  
General and administrative     8,932       1,225       175     4(a)     10,332  
Research and development     1,817       -       -           1,817  
Other taxes     -       175       (175 )   4(a)     -  
Loss from operations     (24,028 )     (1,400 )     -           (25,428 )
                                     
Other income (expense), net:                                    
Gain on marketable securities     -       3       -           3  
Change in fair value of derivative warrant liabilities     -       9,446       -           9,446  
Interest expense     (9,517 )     -       6,005     4(d)     (3,512 )
Total other income (expense), net     (9,517 )     9,449       6,005           5,937  
Net (loss) income     (33,545 )     8,049       6,005           (19,492 )
Deemed dividend to sponsor     -       -                   -  
Accretion of preferred stock     (7,737 )     -       7,737     4(b)     -  
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders   $ (41,282 )   $ 8,049     $ 13,742         $ (19,492 )
                                     
                                     
Weighted average shares outstanding of common stock subject to redemption, basic and diluted             3,995,410                      
Basic and diluted net loss per share, common stock subject to redemption           $ -                      
                                     
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding -
basic and diluted
    2,410,827       4,114,324             4(c)     21,725,817  
Basic and diluted net loss per share available to Sponsor per share, common stock   $ (17.12 )   $ 1.96             4(c)   $ (0.90 )

 

See accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information

 

4

 

 

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    (A)
Clarus Historical
    (B)
Blue Water Historical
    Transaction Accounting Adjustments         Pro Forma Combined  
Net product revenue   $ 6,369     $ -     $ -         $ 6,369  
Cost of product sales     8,687       -       -           8,687  
Gross loss     (2,318 )     -       -           (2,318 )
Operating expenses:                                    
Sales and marketing     29,515       -       50     5(f)     29,565  
General and administrative     11,937       2,978       611     5(a)(f)     15,526  
Research and development     3,407       -       70     5(f)     3,477  
Other taxes     -       172       (172 )   5(a)     -  
Loss from operations     (47,177 )     (3,150 )     (559 )         (50,886 )
                                     
Other income (expense), net:                                    
Change in fair value of warrant liability and derivative, net     66,891       -       (66,891 )   5(b)     -  
Gain on marketable securities (net) held in Trust Account     -       -       -           -  
Change in fair value of derivative warrant liabilities     -       (922 )     -     5(b)     (922 )
Issuance costs - warrant liabilities     -       (646 )     -           (646 )
Interest income     25       -       2,342     5(g)     2,367  
Interest expense     (15,394 )     -       10,091     5(d)     (5,303 )
Total other income (expense), net     51,522       (1,568 )     (54,458 )         (4,504 )
Net income (loss)     4,345       (4,718 )     (55,017 )         (55,390 )
Accretion of preferred stock     (14,682 )     -       14,682     5(c)     -  
Net loss attributable to common stockholders   $ (10,337 )   $ (4,718 )   $ (40,335 )       $ (55,390 )
                                     
Weighted average shares outstanding of common stock subject to redemption, basic and diluted             3,556,309                      
Basic and diluted net loss per share, common stock subject to redemption           $ -                      
                                     
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding -
basic and diluted
    870,263       1,447,732             5(e)     21,725,817  
Basic and diluted net loss per share available to Sponsor per share, common stock   $ (11.88 )   $ (3.26 )           5(e)   $ (2.55 )

 

See accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information.

 

5

 

 

Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements

 

Note 1 — Description of the Merger

 

On September 9, 2021, Combined Entity consummated the previously executed Business Combination pursuant to the Merger Agreement dated April 27, 2021, between Blue Water, Merger Sub and Clarus. Upon the closing of the Business Combination, Merger Sub merged with and into Clarus, with Clarus as the surviving company in the Merger. Upon the closing of the Business Combination, Blue Water changed its name to Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

 

Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, the aggregate consideration issued or reserved for issuance to Clarus securityholders upon the closing of the Merger was 17,895,594 shares of common stock. The 17,895,594 shares includes 1,770,000 shares of common stock, which were issued to Clarus’ senior secured noteholders in connection with the Merger Agreement and additional forbearance and were in exchange for $10.0 million of aggregate principal amount of non-convertible promissory notes and certain outstanding royalty rights. The senior secured noteholders also received an aggregate 135,000 shares from the Sponsor pursuant to the Share Allocation Agreement. Within the aggregate shares issued to Clarus securityholders is also 2,558,705 shares of common stock at $10.00 per share, that were issued to Clarus equity holders for the private placement Additional Closing Shares, of which such noteholders provided gross proceeds of $25.0 million, from the date of Merger Agreement signature through consummation.

 

The following represents the aggregate merger consideration issued or reserved for issuance to Clarus securityholders upon the consummation of the Business Combination:

 

(in thousands, except share and per share data)   Purchase price     Shares Issued  
Share consideration to Clarus(a)(b)   $ 182,023       17,895,594  

 

 

(a)

The value of common stock issued to Clarus, and its senior secured noteholders included in the consideration is reflected at $10.20 per share, as defined in the Merger Agreement, and the value of the common stock issued related to the private placement (as the Additional Closing Shares, as defined in the Merger Agreement), included in the consideration is reflected at $10.00 per share. Clarus common stock at $10.20 totals 15,336,892 shares. Private placement shares (Additional Closing Shares) at $10.00 total 2,558,705 shares.

 

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(b)

The total consideration shares issued or issuable above includes 1,905,000 shares issued to Clarus’ senior secured noteholders. Clarus shares consideration after the shares issued to the senior secured noteholders was first allocated to Clarus convertible notes investors and then the remaining to Clarus Series D Preferred Stock investors and the Clarus warrantholders. Clarus’s outstanding common stock, Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock, and its outstanding and unexercised options and unissued options were cancelled and retired upon consummation of the merger. Pro forma closing shares issued or issuable to Clarus were determined as follows:

 

(in thousands, except share and per share data)      
Base Closing Shares      
Base transaction price   $ 198,184  
Clarus Closing Company Indebtedness at a maximum of $43.1 million     (43,125 )
Clarus Closing Company Cash(d)        
    $ 155,059  
Divided by   $ 10.20  
Shares issuable to Clarus     15,201,889  
Transfer of sponsor founder shares per share allocation agreement (e)     135,000  
Total shares issueable to Clarus     15,336,889  
         
Shares issued to Clarus lenders under Merger Agreement     1,500,000  
Shares issued to Clarus lenders under share allocation agreement (e)     405,000  
Shares issued to Clarus lenders     1,905,000  
Shares issued to Clarus convertible note and Series D investors and reserved for issuance to Clarus warrantholders     13,431,889  
         
Additional Closing Shares         
Principal and interest balance of Additional Convertible Notes(c)     $ 25,587  
Principal and interest balance of the Additional 2025 Notes(c)        
    $ 25,587  
Divided by   $ 10.00  
Shares issued to Clarus     2,558,705  
Total pro forma estimated shares issued or issuable to Clarus     17,895,594  

 

 

(c) Pro forma assumption includes private placement financing (Additional Convertible Notes) issued between the execution of the Merger Agreement and consummation.

(d) Pro forma assumption excludes the closing cash balance for simplicity.

(e)

Under the share allocation agreement, entered by Blue Water and Clarus dated September 1, 2021, Clarus’s senior secured noteholders will receive an allocation of 405,000 additional shares upon consummation of the Merger. Of the 405,000 shares, 270,000 was reallocated from the Clarus equity holders to the senior secured noteholders, and the Blue Water founder transferred the remaining 135,000 from the sponsor/founder shares.

 

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The closing allocations were calculated in accordance with the methodology and procedures set forth in the Merger Agreement and was announced by Blue Water through the Current Report on Form 8-K filing with the SEC four business days prior to the special meeting of its stockholders.

 

The following summarizes the unaudited pro forma common stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to the consummation of the Business Combination transaction:

 

    Common Stock Outstanding  
Stockholder   %     No. shares  

Clarus (excludes unexercised Clarus warrants)

    82.32 %     17,886,348  
Public     11.68 %     2,536,969  
Sponsor (including % of Blue Water’s directors and officers)     6.00 %     1,302,500  
Total No. Shares Class A common stock     100 %     21,725,817  

 

The foregoing ownership percentages with respect to the Combined Entity following the Business Combination are based in the assumption that there are no adjustments for the outstanding Public or Placement warrants issued by Blue Water and no awards were issued under the Equity Incentive Plan and no exercise of the Clarus warrants assumed in the Business Combination.

 

Note 2 — Basis of Presentation

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information was prepared in accordance with Article 11 of SEC Regulation S-X as amended by the final rule, Release No. 33-10786 “Amendments to Financial Disclosures about Acquired and Disposed Businesses.” The historical financial information of Blue Water and Clarus include transaction accounting adjustments to illustrate the estimated effect of the Business Combination, the convertible notes issuance and the private placement and certain other adjustments to provide relevant information necessary for an understanding of the combined company upon consummation of the transactions described herein.

 

Notwithstanding the legal form of the Business Combination pursuant to the Merger Agreement, the Business Combination is expected to be accounted for as a reverse recapitalization in accordance with U.S. GAAP because Clarus has been determined to be the accounting acquirer under Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification Topic 805, Business Combinations (“ASC 805”). The determination is primarily based on the evaluation of the following facts and circumstances taking into consideration the Blue Water redemptions:

 

The pre-combination equity holders of Clarus hold the majority of voting rights in Combined Entity;

 

The largest individual minority stockholder of the Combined Entity is an existing stockholder of Clarus;

 

The pre-combination equity holders of Clarus have the right to appoint the majority of the directors on the Combined Entity Board;

 

Clarus shall select senior management (executives) of Combined Entity; and

 

Operations of Clarus will comprise the ongoing operations of Combined Entity.

 

Under the reverse recapitalization model, the Business Combination will be treated as Clarus issuing equity for the net assets of Blue Water, with no goodwill or intangible assets recorded.

 

8

 

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information reflects all Blue Water’s public stockholders that exercised redemption rights with respect to their public shares. A total of 3,270,531 shares were redeemed for an aggregate redemption value of approximately $33.4 million. The resulting redemption scenario still provided BLUW with cash at closing of the Business Combination of greater than the minimum requirement of $5.0 million pursuant to the Merger Agreement. 

 

The Combined Entity expects to enter into new equity awards with its employees after the consummation of the Business Combination. The terms of these new equity awards have not been finalized and remain subject to change. Accordingly, no effect has been given to the unaudited pro forma combined financial information for the new awards.

 

The unaudited pro forma combined financial information does not reflect the income tax effects of the transaction accounting adjustments as any change in the deferred tax balance would be offset by an increase in the valuation allowance given Clarus incurred negative cash flows during the historical periods presented.

 

Note 3 — Transaction Accounting Adjustments to the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2021

 

The transaction accounting adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2021, are as follows:

 

Pro Forma notes

 

(A) From the unaudited balance sheet of Clarus as of June 30, 2021.

 

(B) From the unaudited balance sheet of Blue Water as of June 30, 2021.

 

Pro Forma adjustment to reflect the proceeds from the issuance of additional Convertible Notes in March 2021 and Private Placement securities agreement.

 

a) Represents the sale of additional issuance private placement shares which will be converted into shares of the Combined Entity pursuant to the Merger Agreement. Net proceeds from these issuances from execution of the Merger Agreement through consummation totaled $25.0 million.

 

Pro Forma transaction accounting adjustments

 

b) Represents the impact of the Business Combination on the cash balance of Combined Entity. The table below represents the sources and uses of funds as it relates to the Business Combination:

 

(in thousands)   Note   Pro Forma Cash  
Blue Water cash held in Trust Account   (1)   $ 58,653  
Payment of redeeming Blue Water Stockholders   (2)     (33,359 )
Payment of deferred underwriting commissions   (3)     (2,012 )
Payment of other transaction costs   (4)     (6,374 )
Excess cash to balance sheet from Business Combination       $ 16,908  

 

 

(1) Represents the amount of the restricted investments and cash held in the trust account upon consummation of the Business Combination at Closing.
(2) Represents the amount paid to Blue Water stockholders who exercised redemption rights.
(3) Represents payment of deferred Blue Water IPO underwriting commissions by Blue Water.
(4) Represents payment of other Blue Water estimated Business Combination transaction costs.

 

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c) To reclass historical Blue Water accrued taxes to accrued expenses of the Combined Entity.

 

d) The following table represents the impact of the Business Combination on the number of shares of Blue Water common stock and represents the impact to the total equity impact of the Business Combination including redemptions by Blue Water stockholders:

 

    Class A
Common Stock
    Class B
Common Stock
    Clarus     Additional
paid-in
    Accumulated  
(in thousands, except share amounts)   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Stock     capital     deficit  
Pre-Business Combination – Blue Water stockholders     1,553,480     $       1,437,500     $     $     $ 2,597     $ 2,403  
Pre-Business Combination – Clarus           3                   197,463       4,443       (359,325 )
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common
stock
    1,302,500             (1,302,500 )                        
Transfer of Class B founder shares to Clarus shares (d)                   (135,000 )                        
Reclassification of redeemable stock to common stock     4,254,020                               43,391        
Less: redemption of redeemable shares     (3,270,531 )                                     (33,359 )        
Clarus Stockholders and cancellation of convertible
notes (a) (d)
    15,981,348       2                         105,312        
Clarus Lenders and extinguishment of certain Clarus senior notes payable and Clarus royalty obligation (d)       1,905,000                               19,431       1,371  
Cancellation of Clarus stock options                                   207       (207 )
Balances after share transactions of Combined Entity     21,725,817       5                   197,463       142,022       (355,758 )
Estimated transaction costs(b)                                     (6,374 )      
Elimination of historical accumulated deficit of Blue Water                                   2,403       (2,403 )
Elimination of historical stock of Clarus(c)             (3 )                 (197,463 )     160,457       37,006  
Post-Business Combination     21,725,817     $ 2           $     $     $ 298,511     $ (321,155 )

 

 

(a)

Includes $25.0 million of private placement convertible notes and related accrued interest converting at $10.00 per share into 2,558,705 shares.

(b) Transaction costs were incurred between June 30, 2021, and the closing of the Business Combination and were all determined to represent costs of the reverse recapitalization.
(c) Accumulated deficit due to the reversal of accretion on preferred stock dividends due to assumed January 1, 2020, conversion and extinguishment.
(d)

Related to the share allocation agreement, whereby 135,000 shares were transferred from the Blue Water founder to the Clarus lenders and a reallocation of 270,000 shares from Clarus stockholders were issued to the Clarus lenders.

 

Note 4 — Transaction Accounting Adjustments to the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statements of Operations for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

The transaction accounting adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma combined statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2021, are as follows:

 

Pro Forma notes

 

(A) From the unaudited condensed statements of operations of Clarus for the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

(B) From the unaudited condensed statements of operations of Blue Water for the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

10

 

 

Pro Forma transaction accounting adjustments

 

a) To reclass historical Blue Water franchise tax expense to general and administrative expenses of the Combined Entity.

 

b) Removal of accretion on preferred stock dividends due to assumed January 1, 2020, conversion and extinguishment.

 

c) Presentation of the pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share amounts. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared to reflect the 3,270,531 shares that were redeemed for an aggregate redemption value of approximately $33.4 million, at a redemption price per share of $10.20. See Note 6, Loss Per Share for additional details.

 

d) To eliminate interest expense related to Clarus convertible notes, which will be exchanged for common stock in the Merger.

 

Note 5 — Transaction Accounting Adjustments to the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statements of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2020

 

The transaction accounting adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma combined statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2020, are as follows:

 

Pro Forma notes

 

(A) From the audited statements of operations of Clarus for the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

(B) From the audited statements of operations of Blue Water for the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

Pro Forma transaction accounting adjustments

 

a) To reclass historical Blue Water franchise tax expense to general and administrative expenses of the Combined Entity.

 

b) To eliminate the gain related to the change in the fair value of derivative liabilities related to Clarus convertible notes and warrants for Series D preferred stock, which were exchanged for common stock in the Merger. The pro forma figures shown are based on the assumed merger date of January 1, 2020, at which time these instruments (the convertible notes and warrants for 183,438 shares of Series D preferred stock) would have converted into shares of the combined company’s common stock. Subsequently, in July 2021, warrants to purchase 122,292 shares of Series D preferred stock expired unexercised, which is not reflected in these pro forma statements.

 

c) Removal of accretion on preferred stock dividends due to assumed January 1, 2020, conversion and extinguishment.

 

d) To eliminate interest expense related to Clarus convertible notes exchanged for common stock in the Merger.

 

e) Presentation of the pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share amounts. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared to reflect the 3,270,531 shares that were redeemed for an aggregate redemption value of approximately $33.4 million, at a redemption price per share of $10.20. See Note 6, Loss Per Share for additional details.

 

f) To record cancellation of Clarus outstanding stock options.

 

g) To record gain on extinguishment of certain Clarus senior notes payable and Clarus royalty obligation.

 

Note 6 — Loss Per Share

 

Net loss per share calculated using the historical weighted average shares outstanding, and the issuance of additional shares in connection with the Business Combination and private placement, assuming the shares were outstanding since January 1, 2020. As the Business Combination is being reflected as if it had occurred at the beginning of the periods presented, the calculation of weighted average shares outstanding for basic and diluted net loss per share assumes that the shares issuable relating to the Business Combination and private placement have been outstanding for the entire periods presented.

 

11

 

 

Net loss per share calculated using the historical weighted average shares outstanding, and the issuance of additional shares in connection with the Business Combination, 2021 convertible notes, and private placement, assuming the shares were outstanding since January 1, 2020. As the Business Combination is being reflected as if it had occurred at the beginning of the periods presented, the calculation of weighted average shares outstanding for basic and diluted net loss per share assumes that the shares issuable relating to the Business Combination, 2021 convertible notes and private placement have been outstanding for the entire periods presented. For the 3,270,531 shares redeemed, this calculation was retroactively adjusted to eliminate such shares for the entire periods.

 

The unaudited pro forma combined financial information has been prepared for the six months ended June 30, 2021:

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2021      
(in thousands, except shares and per share data)      
Pro forma net loss   $ (19,492 )
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic and diluted     21,725,817  
Net loss per share – basic and diluted   $ (0.90 )
         
Pro Forma weighted average shares calculation – basic and diluted        
Blue Water public stockholders     2,536,969  
Blue Water Sponsor     1,302,500  
Total     3,839,469  
Clarus     17,886,348  
Pro Forma weighted average shares outstanding – basic and diluted (1)     21,725,817  

 

 

(1) For the purposes of applying the if-converted method for calculating pro forma earnings per share, it was assumed that all Clarus Preferred stock was extinguished or converted to common stock. As such, the accretion of historical preferred stock dividends was not included in calculation of basic or diluted loss per share.

 

The unaudited pro forma combined financial information has been prepared for the year ended December 31, 2020:

 

Year Ended December 31, 2020      
(in thousands, except shares and per share data)      
Pro forma net loss   $ (55,390 )
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic and diluted     21,725,817  
Net loss per share – basic and diluted   $ (2.55 )
         
Pro Forma weighted average shares calculation – basic and diluted        
Blue Water public stockholders     2,536,969  
Blue Water Sponsor     1,302,500  
Total     3,839,469  
Clarus     17,886,348  
Pro Forma weighted average shares outstanding – basic and diluted (1)     21,725,817  

 

 

(1) For the purposes of applying the if-converted method for calculating pro forma earnings per share, it was assumed that all Clarus Preferred stock was extinguished or converted to common stock. As such, the accretion of historical preferred stock accretion was not included in calculation of basic or diluted loss per share.

 

 

12