Form 1-A Issuer Information |
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 1-A REGULATION A OFFERING STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 | OMB APPROVAL |
FORM 1-A | OMB Number: 3235-0286 Estimated average burden hours per response: 608.0 |
Issuer CIK | 0001904616 |
Issuer CCC | XXXXXXXX |
DOS File Number | |
Offering File Number | |
Is this a LIVE or TEST Filing? | ☒ LIVE ☐ TEST |
Would you like a Return Copy? | ☐ |
Notify via Filing Website only? | ☐ |
Since Last Filing? | ☐ |
Name | |
Phone | |
E-Mail Address |
Exact name of issuer as specified in the issuer's charter | Baker Global Asset Management Inc. |
Jurisdiction of Incorporation / Organization |
NEW YORK
|
Year of Incorporation | 2010 |
CIK | 0001904616 |
Primary Standard Industrial Classification Code | SECURITY BROKERS, DEALERS & FLOTATION COMPANIES |
I.R.S. Employer Identification Number | 11-2432960 |
Total number of full-time employees | 7 |
Total number of part-time employees | 5 |
Address 1 | 750 Veterans Memorial Highway |
Address 2 | Suite 210 |
City | Hauppauge |
State/Country |
NEW YORK
|
Mailing Zip/ Postal Code | 11788 |
Phone | 516-931-1090 |
Name | William T. Baker |
Address 1 | |
Address 2 | |
City | |
State/Country | |
Mailing Zip/ Postal Code | |
Phone |
Industry Group (select one) | ☐ Banking ☐ Insurance ☒ Other |
Cash and Cash Equivalents |
$
34304.40 |
Investment Securities |
$
0.00 |
Total Investments |
$
|
Accounts and Notes Receivable |
$
0.00 |
Loans |
$
|
Property, Plant and Equipment (PP&E): |
$
0.00 |
Property and Equipment |
$
|
Total Assets |
$
226745.98 |
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities |
$
0.00 |
Policy Liabilities and Accruals |
$
|
Deposits |
$
|
Long Term Debt |
$
410083.00 |
Total Liabilities |
$
535851.57 |
Total Stockholders' Equity |
$
-309106.00 |
Total Liabilities and Equity |
$
226745.98 |
Total Revenues |
$
1034079.00 |
Total Interest Income |
$
|
Costs and Expenses Applicable to Revenues |
$
1032247.48 |
Total Interest Expenses |
$
|
Depreciation and Amortization |
$
0.00 |
Net Income |
$
1831.79 |
Earnings Per Share - Basic |
$
0.00 |
Earnings Per Share - Diluted |
$
0.00 |
Name of Auditor (if any) | BF Borgers CPA PC |
Name of Class (if any) Common Equity | Common Stock |
Common Equity Units Outstanding | 1500000 |
Common Equity CUSIP (if any): | 000000000 |
Common Equity Units Name of Trading Center or Quotation Medium (if any) | n/a |
Preferred Equity Name of Class (if any) | Series A |
Preferred Equity Units Outstanding | 7 |
Preferred Equity CUSIP (if any) | 000000000 |
Preferred Equity Name of Trading Center or Quotation Medium (if any) | n/a |
Preferred Equity Name of Class (if any) | Series B |
Preferred Equity Units Outstanding | 7 |
Preferred Equity CUSIP (if any) | 000000000 |
Preferred Equity Name of Trading Center or Quotation Medium (if any) | n/a |
Debt Securities Name of Class (if any) | n/a |
Debt Securities Units Outstanding | 0 |
Debt Securities CUSIP (if any): | 000000000 |
Debt Securities Name of Trading Center or Quotation Medium (if any) | n/a |
Check this box to certify that all of the following statements are true for the issuer(s)
☒
Check this box to certify that, as of the time of this filing, each person described in Rule 262 of Regulation A is either not disqualified under that rule or is disqualified but has received a waiver of such disqualification.
☒
Check this box if "bad actor" disclosure under Rule 262(d) is provided in Part II of the offering statement.
☐
Check the appropriate box to indicate whether you are conducting a Tier 1 or Tier 2 offering | ☐ Tier1 ☒ Tier2 |
Check the appropriate box to indicate whether the financial statements have been audited | ☐ Unaudited ☒ Audited |
Types of Securities Offered in this Offering Statement (select all that apply) |
☒Equity (common or preferred stock) |
Does the issuer intend to offer the securities on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 251(d)(3)? | ☒ Yes ☐ No |
Does the issuer intend this offering to last more than one year? | ☐ Yes ☒ No |
Does the issuer intend to price this offering after qualification pursuant to Rule 253(b)? | ☐ Yes ☒ No |
Will the issuer be conducting a best efforts offering? | ☒ Yes ☐ No |
Has the issuer used solicitation of interest communications in connection with the proposed offering? | ☐ Yes ☒ No |
Does the proposed offering involve the resale of securities by affiliates of the issuer? | ☐ Yes ☒ No |
Number of securities offered | 1000000 |
Number of securities of that class outstanding | 1500000 |
Price per security |
$
5.0000 |
The portion of the aggregate offering price attributable to securities being offered on behalf of the issuer |
$
5000000.00 |
The portion of the aggregate offering price attributable to securities being offered on behalf of selling securityholders |
$
0.00 |
The portion of the aggregate offering price attributable to all the securities of the issuer sold pursuant to a qualified offering statement within the 12 months before the qualification of this offering statement |
$
0.00 |
The estimated portion of aggregate sales attributable to securities that may be sold pursuant to any other qualified offering statement concurrently with securities being sold under this offering statement |
$
0.00 |
Total (the sum of the aggregate offering price and aggregate sales in the four preceding paragraphs) |
$
5000000.00 |
Underwriters - Name of Service Provider | None | Underwriters - Fees |
$
0.00 |
Sales Commissions - Name of Service Provider | Alexander Capital, L.P. | Sales Commissions - Fee |
$
300000.00 |
Finders' Fees - Name of Service Provider | None | Finders' Fees - Fees |
$
0.00 |
Audit - Name of Service Provider | BF Borgers CPA PC | Audit - Fees |
$
50000.00 |
Legal - Name of Service Provider | Bevilacqua PLLC | Legal - Fees |
$
60000.00 |
Promoters - Name of Service Provider | None | Promoters - Fees |
$
0.00 |
Blue Sky Compliance - Name of Service Provider | Bevilacqua PLLC | Blue Sky Compliance - Fees |
$
11400.00 |
CRD Number of any broker or dealer listed: | 40077 |
Estimated net proceeds to the issuer |
$
4593100.00 |
Clarification of responses (if necessary) |
Selected States and Jurisdictions |
ALABAMA
ALASKA
ARIZONA
ARKANSAS
CALIFORNIA
COLORADO
CONNECTICUT
DELAWARE
FLORIDA
GEORGIA
HAWAII
IDAHO
ILLINOIS
INDIANA
IOWA
KANSAS
KENTUCKY
LOUISIANA
MAINE
MARYLAND
MASSACHUSETTS
MICHIGAN
MINNESOTA
MISSISSIPPI
MISSOURI
MONTANA
NEBRASKA
NEVADA
NEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW JERSEY
NEW MEXICO
NEW YORK
NORTH CAROLINA
NORTH DAKOTA
OHIO
OKLAHOMA
OREGON
PENNSYLVANIA
RHODE ISLAND
SOUTH CAROLINA
SOUTH DAKOTA
TENNESSEE
TEXAS
UTAH
VERMONT
VIRGINIA
WASHINGTON
WEST VIRGINIA
WISCONSIN
WYOMING
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
PUERTO RICO
|
None | ☐ |
Same as the jurisdictions in which the issuer intends to offer the securities | ☒ |
Selected States and Jurisdictions |
ALABAMA
ALASKA
ARIZONA
ARKANSAS
CALIFORNIA
COLORADO
CONNECTICUT
DELAWARE
FLORIDA
GEORGIA
HAWAII
IDAHO
ILLINOIS
INDIANA
IOWA
KANSAS
KENTUCKY
LOUISIANA
MAINE
MARYLAND
MASSACHUSETTS
MICHIGAN
MINNESOTA
MISSISSIPPI
MISSOURI
MONTANA
NEBRASKA
NEVADA
NEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW JERSEY
NEW MEXICO
NEW YORK
NORTH CAROLINA
NORTH DAKOTA
OHIO
OKLAHOMA
OREGON
PENNSYLVANIA
RHODE ISLAND
SOUTH CAROLINA
SOUTH DAKOTA
TENNESSEE
TEXAS
UTAH
VERMONT
VIRGINIA
WASHINGTON
WEST VIRGINIA
WISCONSIN
WYOMING
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
PUERTO RICO
|
None ☒
(e) Indicate the section of the Securities Act or Commission rule or regulation relied upon for exemption from the registration requirements of such Act and state briefly the facts relied upon for such exemption |
Preliminary Offering Circular, Dated April 20, 2023
AN OFFERING STATEMENT PURSUANT TO REGULATION A RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PRELIMINARY OFFERING CIRCULAR IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT. THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED BEFORE THE OFFERING STATEMENT FILED WITH THE COMMISSION IS QUALIFIED. THIS PRELIMINARY OFFERING CIRCULAR SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR MAY THERE BE ANY SALES OF THESE SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL BEFORE REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE LAWS OF ANY SUCH STATE. WE MAY ELECT TO SATISFY OUR OBLIGATION TO DELIVER A FINAL OFFERING CIRCULAR BY SENDING YOU A NOTICE WITHIN TWO BUSINESS DAYS AFTER THE COMPLETION OF OUR SALE TO YOU THAT CONTAINS THE URL WHERE THE OFFERING CIRCULAR WAS FILED MAY BE OBTAINED.
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC.
750 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 210
Hauppauge, NY 11788
(516) 931-1090; www.benjaminsecurities.com
Best Efforts Offering of up to 1,000,000 Shares of Common Stock
This is the initial public offering of securities of Baker Global Asset Management Inc., a New York corporation (“we,” “us,” “our” or “our company”). We are offering up to 1,000,000 shares of common stock at an offering price of $5.00 per share for aggregate maximum gross proceeds of $5,000,000. There is no minimum number of shares that must be sold in order to close this offering. See the sections entitled “Plan of Distribution” beginning on page 14 and “Securities Being Offered” beginning on page 32.
This is our initial public offering, and no public market currently exists for our stock. The offering price may not reflect the market price of our stock after this offering. Our common stock is not listed for trading on any exchange or automated quotation system. We intend to apply for quotation on one of the tiers of the OTC Markets. There can be no assurance that such an application for quotation will be approved. This offering is not conditioned upon our quotation on any tier of the OTC Markets.
This offering will terminate at the earlier of: (1) the date on which the maximum offering amount has been sold, (2) the date which is one year after the offering statement of which this offering circular is a part has been qualified by the SEC or (3) the date on which this offering is earlier terminated by us in our sole discretion.
This offering is being conducted on a “best efforts” basis pursuant to Regulation A of Section 3(b) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), for Tier 2 offerings and there is no minimum offering amount. We may hold a series of closings at which we receive the funds from the applicable clearing firm and issue the shares to investors. See the sections entitled “Plan of Distribution” and “Securities Being Offered” for a description of our capital stock.
Price to Public | Broker-Dealer Discount and Commissions(1) | Proceeds to Issuer | Proceeds to Other Persons | |||||||||||||
Per share | $ | 5.00 | $ | 0.30 | $ | 4.70 | $ | 0.00 | ||||||||
Total Maximum | $ | 5,000,000 | $ | 300,000 | $ | 4,700,000 | $ | 0.00 |
(1) | We have engaged Alexander Capital, L.P., member FINRA/SIPC (“Alexander” or the “Placement Agent”), to act as placement agent and qualified independent underwriter for this offering, in exchange for a fee of 6% of the amount of the securities sold in this offering. The amounts shown are before deducting organization and offering costs to us, which include legal, accounting, printing, due diligence, marketing, consulting, selling and other costs incurred in this offering. See the section entitled “Plan of Distribution” for details. |
We are an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (the “JOBS Act”) and, as such, may elect to comply with certain reduced reporting requirements for this offering circular and future filings after this offering.
Investing in this offering involves a high degree of risk, and you should not invest unless you can afford to lose your entire investment. See the section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 3 for a discussion of certain risks that you should consider in connection with an investment in our securities.
Generally, no sale may be made to you in this offering if the aggregate purchase price you pay is more than 10% of the greater of your annual income or your net worth. Different rules apply to accredited investors and non-natural persons. Before making any representation that your investment does not exceed applicable thresholds, we encourage you to review Rule 251(d)(2)(i)(C) of Regulation A. For general information on investing, we encourage you to refer to www.investor.gov.
THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION DOES NOT PASS UPON THE MERITS OF OR GIVE ITS APPROVAL TO ANY SECURITIES OFFERED OR THE TERMS OF THE OFFERING, NOR DOES IT PASS UPON THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF ANY OFFERING CIRCULAR OR OTHER SOLICITATION MATERIALS. THESE SECURITIES ARE OFFERED PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION WITH THE COMMISSION; HOWEVER, THE COMMISSION HAS NOT MADE AN INDEPENDENT DETERMINATION THAT THE SECURITIES OFFERED ARE EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION.
This offering circular is following the offering circular format described in Part II (a)(1)(i) of Form 1-A.
Securities offered through:
ALEXANDER CAPITAL, L.P.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THIS OFFERING CIRCULAR MAY CONTAIN FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND INFORMATION RELATING TO, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE COMPANY, ITS BUSINESS PLAN AND STRATEGY, AND ITS INDUSTRY. THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE BASED ON THE BELIEFS OF, ASSUMPTIONS MADE BY, AND INFORMATION CURRENTLY AVAILABLE TO THE COMPANY’S MANAGEMENT. WHEN USED IN THE OFFERING MATERIALS, THE WORDS “ESTIMATE,” “PROJECT,” “BELIEVE,” “ANTICIPATE,” “INTEND,” “EXPECT” AND SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS ARE INTENDED TO IDENTIFY FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. THESE STATEMENTS REFLECT MANAGEMENT’S CURRENT VIEWS WITH RESPECT TO FUTURE EVENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES THAT COULD CAUSE THE COMPANY’S ACTUAL RESULTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE CONTAINED IN THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. INVESTORS ARE CAUTIONED NOT TO PLACE UNDUE RELIANCE ON THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, WHICH SPEAK ONLY AS OF THE DATE ON WHICH THEY ARE MADE.
We are offering to sell, and seeking offers to buy, our securities only in jurisdictions where such offers and sales are permitted. You should rely only on the information contained in this offering circular. We have not, and the placement agent has not, authorized anyone to provide you with any information other than the information contained in this offering circular. The information contained in this offering circular is accurate only as of its date, regardless of the time of its delivery or of any sale or delivery of our securities. Neither the delivery of this offering circular nor any sale or delivery of our securities shall, under any circumstances, imply that there has been no change in our affairs since the date of this offering circular. This offering circular will be updated and made available for delivery to the extent required by the federal securities laws.
i
This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this offering circular. This summary does not contain all of the information that you should consider before deciding to invest in our securities. You should read this entire offering circular carefully, including the “Risk Factors” section, our historical financial statements and the notes thereto, each included elsewhere in this offering circular.
Our Company
Overview
Baker Global Asset Management, Inc. is a holding company which owns all of the issued and outstanding stock of Benjamin Securities, Inc., or Benjamin. Benjamin is a boutique investment firm established in 1977 and has been a FINRA licensed broker-dealer since 1979 and a registered investment advisor registered with the SEC since 1987. On May 24, 2022, FINRA granted the application of Benjamin to expand its business to include investment banking services, and the application was confirmed complete by FINRA on October 20, 2022.
Our Industry
We believe there is significant growth, profit potential, and opportunity in the financial services industry over the near and long term. Growth in overall economic activity, growth in investable funds, and globalization of the world economy over the long term should continue to provide growth in the financial services industry. While the future economic environment may not be as favorable as recent history, we believe these trends will result in long term growth for the financial services industry.
Our Services
Benjamin is currently engaged in the Registered Investment Advisory business where we provide investment selection, securities purchases, and securities sales services for our clients under a fee agreement. These agreements generally pay us a percentage of assets under management, which align our goals of increased revenue with the clients’ goals of asset growth.
We are also engaged in the securities brokerage business where we provide advice and order execution services for a commission.
Benjamin also provides investment banking and capital markets advisory services as well as marketing and sales support for capital market transactions.
Our Customer Base
Our typical customer has between $100,000 and $5,000,000 in investable assets. We believe this market presents opportunity as it is generally underserved by the larger investment firms. Also, many firms that handle accounts in this asset range do not actively manage the assets.
Our capital markets clients are typically smaller companies that need investment banking services too small for larger firms.
Competitive Strengths
Competition is strong in the financial services industry. We compete against small local brokers and asset managers, as well as large, multinational banks, Investment Banking firms, and large asset managers. We believe that we distinguish ourselves by maintaining strong client relationships.
In asset management and securities brokerage, we believe that the methodology we use in making investment decisions (using earnings estimates for one and three year periods as well as price to earnings ratios to calculate what we consider to be a fair market range for the stocks we invest in) distinguishes us from many of the smaller or regional asset managers.
Growth Strategies
Our strategy is to grow our core businesses of asset management and advisory services. We believe that asset management is one of the fastest growing segments of the financial services industry. Not only will we focus on internal growth of our asset management and advisory services business, but we will also consider acquiring other advisory firms that not only fit with our strategy, but present favorable returns on invested capital.
We intend to expand our investment banking services, as well as principal investments and trading. Investment banking represents an opportunity for us as a member of a selling group, as an underwriter, as well as in mergers and acquisitions advisory work.
In addition, we will be looking to expand our geographic reach. We believe there is plenty of growth opportunity by expanding our geographic reach nationally, as well as internationally.
Stock Split
We are a New York corporation that was incorporated on May 13, 2010. On June 7, 2022, we completed a 7,500-for-1 forward stock split of our outstanding common stock. As a result of this stock split, our issued and outstanding common stock was increased from 200 shares to 1,500,000 shares. All share and per share information contained in this offering circular reflects this stock split.
Corporate Information
Our principal executive offices are located at 750 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 210, Hauppauge, NY 11788 and our telephone number is (516) 931-1090. We maintain a website at www.benjaminsecurities.com. Information available on our website is not incorporated by reference in and is not deemed a part of this offering circular.
1
The offering
Securities being offered: | Up to 1,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.0001 par value, for a maximum offering amount of $5,000,000. | |
Offering price per share: | $5.00 per share. | |
Minimum subscription: | The minimum subscription amount is $500. | |
Plan of distribution: | We have engaged Alexander Capital, L.P., a broker-dealer registered with the SEC and a member of FINRA/SIPC (“Alexander” or the “Placement Agent”), to act as the placement agent and qualified independent underwriter of this offering to assist in the placement of our securities on a “best efforts” basis. The Placement Agent may engage soliciting dealers who are FINRA members and registered with the SEC. See “Plan of Distribution” for more details. | |
Restrictions on investment amount: | Generally, no sale may be made to you in this offering if the aggregate purchase price you pay is more than 10% of the greater of your annual income or net worth. Different rules apply to accredited investors and non-natural persons. Before making any representation that your investment does not exceed applicable thresholds, we encourage you to review Rule 251(d)(2)(i)(c) of Regulation A. For general information on investing, we encourage you to refer to www.investor.gov. | |
Termination of the offering: | This offering will terminate at the earlier of: (1) the date on which the maximum offering amount has been sold, (2) the date which is one year after the offering statement of which this offering circular is a part has been qualified by the SEC or (3) the date on which this offering is earlier terminated by us and the Placement Agent in our sole discretion. | |
Use of proceeds: |
We estimate that, at a per share price of $5.00, the net proceeds from the sale of the 1,000,000 shares in this offering will be approximately $4,593,100, after deducting the estimated offering expenses of approximately $406,900 We intend to use the net proceeds of this offering to pay off our existing bridge loan, to redeem a portion of our outstanding preferred stock, to provide working capital for our firm that will allow us to expand our investment banking business, and to pay for marketing, administrative and corporate expenses, professional fees and compensation, and working capital reserves. See the section entitled “Use of Proceeds” for details. | |
Conflicts of interest: | Because our wholly-owned subsidiary, Benjamin Securities Inc., is a FINRA member and is controlled by us, and the price of the shares has been determined by us, this offering will be conducted in accordance with FINRA Rule 5121(a)(2). This rule requires, among other things, that a qualified independent underwriter has participated in the preparation of this offering circular, and has exercised the usual standards of “due diligence” in respect thereto. Alexander has agreed, in addition to acting as placement agent, to act as qualified independent underwriter for this offering. | |
Market for our Common Stock: | Our common stock is not listed for trading on any exchange or automated quotation system. We intend to apply for quotation on the OTC Market. There can be no assurance that such an application for quotation will be approved. This offering is not conditioned upon our quotation on any tier of the OTC Markets. | |
Risk factors: | Investing in our securities involves risks. See the section entitled “Risk Factors” in this offering circular and other information included in this offering circular for a discussion of factors you should carefully consider before deciding to invest in our securities. |
2
Investing in our shares involves a significant degree of risk. You should carefully consider the following risk factors, in addition to the other information in this offering circular, including our consolidated financial statements and related notes, before you decide to purchase our common stock. If any of the following risks actually materializes, our business, financial condition and operating results could be adversely affected. As a result, the trading price of our common stock could decline and you could lose part or all of your investment.
Risks Related to our Business
Our business may be harmed by global events beyond our control, including overall slowdowns in securities trading.
Like other brokerage and financial services firms, our business and profitability are directly affected by elements that are beyond our control, such as economic and political conditions, broad trends in business and finance, changes in volume of securities and futures transactions, changes in the markets in which such transactions occur and changes in how such transactions are processed. A weakness in equity markets, such as a slowdown causing reduction in trading volume in U.S. or foreign securities and derivatives, has historically resulted in reduced transaction revenues and would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Because our revenues and profitability depend on trading volume, they are prone to significant fluctuations and are difficult to predict.
Our revenues are dependent on the level of trading activity on securities exchanges in the United States and abroad. In the past, our revenues and operating results have varied significantly from period to period due to trends in the underlying markets, and to fluctuations in trading levels. As a result, period to period comparisons of our revenues and operating results may not be meaningful, and future revenues and profitability may be subject to significant fluctuations or declines.
Our business could be harmed by a systemic market event.
Some market participants could be overleveraged. In case of sudden, large price movements, such market participants may not be able to meet their obligations to brokers who, in turn, may not be able to meet their obligations to their counterparties. As a result, the financial system or a portion thereof could collapse, and the impact of such an event could be catastrophic to our business.
Our operations and business have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and may be materially and adversely impacted in the future.
We face risks related to health epidemics and other outbreaks of communicable diseases, which could significantly disrupt our operations and may materially and adversely affect our business and financial conditions. In December 2019, an outbreak of a novel strain of coronavirus, or COVID-19, emerged and has since spread worldwide, posing public health risks that have reached pandemic proportions. In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted global supply chains and workforce participation, including our own, and created significant volatility and disruption of financial markets. A prolonged economic downturn and adverse impact to global economies or a sustained slowdown in growth or demand could have an adverse effect on our business.
We are currently operating in a period of economic uncertainty and capital markets disruption, which has been significantly impacted by geopolitical instability due to the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Our business may be materially adversely affected by any negative impact on the global economy and capital markets resulting from the conflict in Ukraine or any other geopolitical tensions.
U.S. and global markets are experiencing volatility and disruption following the escalation of geopolitical tensions and the start of the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine. On February 24, 2022, a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops was reported. Although the length and impact of the ongoing military conflict is highly unpredictable, the conflict in Ukraine could lead to market disruptions, including significant volatility in commodity prices, credit and capital markets, as well as supply chain interruptions. We are continuing to monitor the situation in Ukraine and globally and assessing its potential impact on our business.
3
Governments in the United States and many other countries, as well as other entities, have imposed economic sanctions on certain Russian individuals, including politicians, and Russian corporate and banking entities. These entities could also institute broader sanctions on Russia, including banning Russia from global payments systems that facilitate cross-border payments. These sanctions, or even the threat of further sanctions, may result in the decline of the value and liquidity of Russian securities, a weakening of the ruble or other adverse consequences to the global economy.
The current war in Ukraine, and geopolitical events stemming from such conflicts, could cause consumer confidence and spending to decrease or result in increased volatility in the United States and worldwide financial markets and economy. The extent and duration of the military action, resulting sanctions and resulting future market disruptions in the region are impossible to predict, but could be significant and have a severe adverse effect worldwide on financial markets and the economy.
Any of the abovementioned factors could have an adverse effect on our business.
Adverse developments affecting the financial services industry, such as actual events or concerns involving liquidity, defaults, or non-performance by financial institutions or transactional counterparties, could adversely affect our current and projected business operations and our financial condition and results of operations.
Actual events involving limited liquidity, defaults, non-performance or other adverse developments that affect financial institutions, transactional counterparties or other companies in the financial services industry or the financial services industry generally, or concerns or rumors about any events of these kinds or other similar risks, have in the past and may in the future lead to market-wide liquidity problems. For example, on March 10, 2023, Silicon Valley Bank, or SVB, was closed by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or the FDIC, as receiver. Similarly, on March 12, 2023, Signature Bank Corp., or Signature, and Silvergate Capital Corp. were each swept into receivership. Although a statement by the Department of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve and the FDIC indicated that all depositors of SVB would have access to all of their money after only one business day of closure, including funds held in uninsured deposit accounts, borrowers under credit agreements, letters of credit and certain other financial instruments with SVB, Signature or any other financial institution that is placed into receivership by the FDIC may be unable to access undrawn amounts thereunder. Although we are not a borrower under or party to any material letter of credit or any other such instruments with SVB, Signature or any other financial institution currently in receivership, if we enter into any such instruments and any of our lenders or counterparties to such instruments were to be placed into receivership, we may be unable to access such funds. In addition, if any of our partners, suppliers or other parties with whom we conduct business are unable to access funds pursuant to such instruments or lending arrangements with such a financial institution, such parties’ ability to pay their obligations to us or to enter into new commercial arrangements requiring additional payments to us could be adversely affected. In this regard, counterparties to credit agreements and arrangements with these financial institutions, and third parties such as beneficiaries of letters of credit (among others), may experience direct impacts from the closure of these financial institutions and uncertainty remains over liquidity concerns in the broader financial services industry. Similar impacts have occurred in the past, such as during the 2008-2010 financial crisis.
Inflation and rapid increases in interest rates have led to a decline in the trading value of previously issued government securities with interest rates below current market interest rates. Although the U.S. Department of Treasury, FDIC and Federal Reserve Board have announced a program to provide up to $25 billion of loans to financial institutions secured by certain of such government securities held by financial institutions to mitigate the risk of potential losses on the sale of such instruments, widespread demands for customer withdrawals or other liquidity needs of financial institutions for immediately liquidity may exceed the capacity of such program.
Our access to funding sources and other credit arrangements in amounts adequate to finance or capitalize our current and projected future business operations could be significantly impaired by factors that affect us, any financial institutions with which we enter into credit agreements or arrangements directly, or the financial services industry or economy in general. These factors could include, among others, events such as liquidity constraints or failures, the ability to perform obligations under various types of financial, credit or liquidity agreements or arrangements, disruptions or instability in the financial services industry or financial markets, or concerns or negative expectations about the prospects for companies in the financial services industry. These factors could involve financial institutions or financial services industry companies with which we have financial or business relationships, but could also include factors involving financial markets or the financial services industry generally.
4
The results of events or concerns that involve one or more of these factors could include a variety of material and adverse impacts on our current and projected business operations and our financial condition and results of operations. These risks include, but may not be limited to, the following:
● | delayed access to deposits or other financial assets or the uninsured loss of deposits or other financial assets; |
● | inability to enter into credit facilities or other working capital resources; |
● | potential or actual breach of contractual obligations that require us to maintain letters of credit or other credit support arrangements; or |
● | termination of cash management arrangements and/or delays in accessing or actual loss of funds subject to cash management arrangements. |
In addition, investor concerns regarding the U.S. or international financial systems could result in less favorable commercial financing terms, including higher interest rates or costs and tighter financial and operating covenants, or systemic limitations on access to credit and liquidity sources, thereby making it more difficult for us to acquire financing on acceptable terms or at all. Any decline in available funding or access to our cash and liquidity resources could, among other risks, adversely impact our ability to meet our operating expenses or other obligations, financial or otherwise, result in breaches of our financial and/or contractual obligations, or result in violations of federal or state wage and hour laws. Any of these impacts, or any other impacts resulting from the factors described above or other related or similar factors, could have material adverse impacts on our liquidity and our current and/or projected business operations and financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, any further deterioration in the macroeconomic economy or financial services industry could lead to losses or defaults by our partners, vendors or suppliers, which in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our current and/or projected business operations and results of operations and financial condition. For example, a partner may fail to make payments when due, default under their agreements with us, become insolvent or declare bankruptcy, or a supplier may determine that it will no longer deal with us as a customer. In addition, a vendor or supplier could be adversely affected by any of the liquidity or other risks that are described above as factors that could result in material adverse impacts on us, including but not limited to delayed access or loss of access to uninsured deposits or loss of the ability to draw on existing credit facilities involving a troubled or failed financial institution. The bankruptcy or insolvency of any partner, vendor or supplier, or the failure of any partner to make payments when due, or any breach or default by a partner, vendor or supplier, or the loss of any significant supplier relationships, could cause us to suffer material losses and may have a material adverse impact on our business.
The valuation of the financial instruments we hold may result in large and occasionally anomalous swings in the value of our positions and in our earnings in any period.
The market prices of our long and short positions are reflected on our books at closing prices which are typically the last trade price before the official close of the primary exchange on which each such security trades. Given that we manage an equity and fixed income portfolio, we may have large and substantially offsetting positions in securities that trade on different exchanges. As a result, there may be large and occasionally anomalous swings in the value of our positions daily and, accordingly, in our earnings in any period.
Financial services firms are subject to significant scrutiny, which may result in financial liability and reputational harm from adverse regulatory actions.
Our subsidiary, Benjamin Securities Inc., is registered as a broker-dealer and an investment advisor under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, and is a member of, and subject to, regulation, examination and supervision by the SEC, FINRA, other self-regulatory organizations and state securities regulators. As such, we are subject to regulations that cover all aspects of the securities business, including, sales methods, trade practices, use and safekeeping of customers’ funds and securities, capital structure, recordkeeping and the conduct and qualification of officers and employees. In particular, as a registered broker- dealer and member of various self-regulatory organizations, Benjamin is subject to the SEC’s uniform net capital rule, Rule 15c3-1 of the Exchange Act, which specifies the minimum level of net capital a broker-dealer must maintain and also requires that a significant part of its assets be kept in relatively liquid form. The SEC and various self-regulatory organizations impose rules that require notification when net capital falls below certain predefined criteria, limit the ratio of subordinated debt to equity in the regulatory capital composition of a broker-dealer and constrain the ability of a broker-dealer to expand its business under certain circumstances. Additionally, the SEC’s uniform net capital rule imposes certain requirements that may have the effect of prohibiting a broker-dealer from distributing or withdrawing capital and requiring prior notice to the SEC for certain withdrawals of capital.
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The SEC has adopted rule amendments that establish alternative net capital requirements for broker-dealers that are part of a consolidated supervised entity. As a condition to its use of the alternative method, a broker-dealer’s ultimate holding company and affiliates (referred to collectively as a “consolidated supervised entity”) must consent to group-wide supervision and examination by the SEC. If we elect to become subject to the SEC’s group-wide supervision, we will be required to report to the SEC computations of our capital adequacy.
Failure to comply with applicable regulations could subject our wholly owned broker-dealer to fines or to suspension or revocation of its licenses by the SEC or expulsion from FINRA.
Firms in the financial services industry have experienced increased scrutiny and larger potential penalties and fines in recent years from a variety of regulators. This regulatory and enforcement environment has created uncertainty with respect to a number of transactions that had historically been entered into by financial services firms and that were generally believed to be permissible and appropriate. We may be adversely affected by changes in the interpretation or enforcement of existing laws and rules by these governmental authorities and self-regulatory organizations. We also may be adversely affected as a result of new or revised legislation or regulations imposed by the SEC or other regulatory authorities or self-regulatory organizations that supervise the financial markets. Our failure to comply in the future with applicable laws or regulations could result in fines, suspensions of personnel or other sanctions, including revocation of the registration of us or any of our subsidiaries. Even if a sanction imposed against us or our personnel is small in monetary amount, adverse publicity arising from the imposition of sanctions against us by regulators could harm our reputation and cause us to lose existing clients or fail to gain new clients.
In addition, financial services firms are subject to numerous conflicts of interests or perceived conflicts. The SEC and other federal and state regulators have increased their scrutiny of potential conflicts of interest. We have adopted various policies, controls and procedures to address or limit actual or perceived conflicts and regularly seek to review and update our policies, controls and procedures. However, appropriately dealing with conflicts of interest is complex and difficult and our reputation could be damaged if we fail, or appear to fail, to deal appropriately with conflicts of interest. Our policies and procedures to address or limit actual or perceived conflicts may also result in increased costs, additional operational personnel and increased regulatory risk.
The effort to combat money laundering and terrorist financing is a priority in governmental policy with respect to financial institutions. The obligation of financial institutions, including ourselves, to identify their clients, watch for and report suspicious transactions, respond to requests for information by regulatory authorities and law enforcement agencies, and share information with other financial institutions, has required the implementation and maintenance of internal practices, procedures and controls which have increased, and may continue to increase, our costs.
Asset management businesses have experienced a number of highly publicized regulatory inquiries concerning market timing, late trading and other activities that focus on the mutual fund industry. These inquiries have resulted in increased scrutiny within the industry and new rules and regulations for mutual funds, investment advisers and broker-dealers. Although we do not act as an investment adviser to mutual funds, the regulatory scrutiny and rulemaking initiatives may result in an increase in operational and compliance costs.
Any failure to comply with applicable regulatory requirements may result in significant regulatory sanctions, client litigation or harm to our reputation, each of which may have an adverse effect on our financial condition.
Our success depends on the services of our Chief Executive Officer, the loss of whom could disrupt our business.
We depend to a large extent on the services of our founder and CEO, Mr. William Thomas Baker. Given his knowledge and experience, he is important to our future prospects and development as we rely on his expertise in developing our business strategies and maintaining our operations. The loss of the service of Mr. Baker and the failure to find a timely replacement with comparable experience and expertise could disrupt and adversely affect our business. Furthermore, we have not purchased any insurance policies with respect to him in the event of his death or disability. Therefore, if Mr. Baker dies or becomes disabled, we will not receive any compensation to assist with his absence. The loss of Mr. Baker would have a significant negative impact on our company, its operations and its revenues.
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Our risk management policies and procedures may leave us exposed to unidentified or unanticipated risks.
Our risk management strategies and techniques may not be fully effective in mitigating our risk exposure in all market environments or against all types of risk. We are exposed to the risk that third parties that owe us money, securities or other assets will not perform their obligations. These parties may default on their obligations to us due to bankruptcy, lack of liquidity, operational failure, and breach of contract or other reasons. We are also subject to the risk that our rights against third parties may not be enforceable in all circumstances, and, as a result, default risks may arise from events or circumstances that are difficult to detect, foresee or reasonably guard against. In addition, concerns about, or a default by, one institution could lead to significant liquidity problems, losses or defaults by other institutions, which in turn could adversely affect us. If any of the variety of processes and strategies we utilize to manage our exposure to various types of risk are not effective, we may incur losses.
Our financial statements contain an explanatory paragraph regarding substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, which could prevent us from obtaining new financing on reasonable terms or at all.
The auditors’ opinion included in our audited financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2022 contains an explanatory paragraph regarding substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. As reflected in the financial statements, we had an accumulated deficit of $160,958 at August 31, 2022. We also had accounts payable of $75,768, and a note payable of $410,083 on the balance sheet at August 31, 2022. These factors raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. We are attempting to operate and generate sufficient revenue. We also intend to raise additional funds by way of this offering. While we believe in the viability of our strategy, our ability to generate sufficient revenue, and our ability to raise additional funds, there can be no assurances to that effect. Our ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon our ability to further implement our business plan and generate sufficient revenue and our ability to raise additional funds. The financial statements do not include any adjustments related to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should we be unable to continue as a going concern.
Our operations and infrastructure and those of the service providers upon which we rely may malfunction or fail.
We outsource certain aspects of our technology infrastructure, including data centers, disaster recovery systems, and wide area networks, as well as some trading applications. We depend on our technology providers to manage and monitor those functions. A disruption of any of the outsourced services would be out of our control and could negatively impact our business. We have experienced disruptions on occasion, none of which has been material to our operations or results. However, we cannot guarantee that future disruptions with these providers will not occur or that their impact would not be material.
We also face the risk of operational failure or termination of relations with any of the clearing agents, exchanges, clearing houses or other financial intermediaries we use to facilitate our securities transactions. Any such failure or termination could adversely affect our ability to effect transactions and to manage our exposure to risk.
In addition, our ability to conduct business may be adversely impacted by a disruption in the infrastructure, including electrical, communications, transportation and other services, that support our businesses and the area in which we are located. This may affect, among other things, our financial, accounting or other data processing systems. Nearly all of our employees work in close proximity to each other. Although we have a formal disaster recovery plan in place, if a disruption occurs and our employees are unable to communicate with or travel to other locations, our ability to service and interact with our clients may suffer, and we may not be able to implement contingency plans that depend on communication or travel.
Our operations also rely on the secure processing, storage and transmission of confidential and other information in our computer systems and networks. Although we take protective measures and endeavor to modify them as circumstances warrant, our computer systems, software and networks may be vulnerable to unauthorized access, computer viruses or other malicious code and other events that could have an adverse impact on their integrity and/or viability. If one or more of such events occur, this could jeopardize our or our clients’ or counterparties’ confidential and other information processed and stored in, and transmitted through, our computer systems and networks, or otherwise cause interruptions or malfunctions in our, our clients’, our counterparties’ or third parties’ operations. We may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify our protective measures, to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures or to make required notifications, and we may be subject to litigation and financial losses that are either not insured or not fully covered through any insurance that we maintain.
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Employee misconduct, which is difficult to detect and deter, could harm us by impairing our ability to attract and retain clients and subjecting us to significant legal liability and reputational harm.
Recently, there have been a number of highly-publicized cases involving fraud or other misconduct by employees in the financial services industry, and there is a risk that our employees could engage in misconduct that adversely affects our business. For example, we often deal with confidential matters of great significance to our clients. If our employees were to improperly use or disclose confidential information provided by our clients, we could be subject to regulatory sanctions and suffer serious harm to our reputation, financial position, current client relationships and ability to attract future clients. We are also subject to a number of obligations and standards arising from our investment management business and our authority over the assets managed by our investment management business. The violation of these obligations and standards by any of our employees would adversely affect us and our clients. It is not always possible to deter employee misconduct, and the precautions we take to detect and prevent this activity may not be effective in all cases. If our employees engage in misconduct, our business could be adversely affected.
We may not be able to manage future growth effectively.
If our business plan is successful, we may experience significant growth in a short period of time. Should we grow rapidly, our financial, management and operating resources may not expand sufficiently to adequately manage our growth. If we are unable to manage our growth, our costs may increase disproportionately, our future revenues may stop growing or decline and we may face dissatisfied customers. Our failure to manage our growth may adversely impact our business and the value of your investment.
Errors and omissions claims may negatively affect our future business and our results of operations in the future.
We are subject to claims and litigation in the ordinary course of business resulting from alleged and actual errors and omissions in effecting securities transactions and rendering investment advice. These activities could involve substantial amounts of money. Since errors and omissions claims against us may allege liability for all or part of the amounts in question, claimants may seek large damage awards. These claims can involve significant defense costs. Errors and omissions could include, for example, failure, whether negligently or intentionally, to choose suitable investments for any particular client, or to supervise our bankers and analysts. It is not always possible to prevent or detect errors and omissions, and the precautions we take may not be effective in all cases.
Competition with other financial firms may have a negative effect on our business.
We compete directly with national and regional full-service broker-dealers and a broad range of other financial service firms. Competition has increased as smaller securities firms have either ceased doing business or have been acquired by or merged into other firms. Mergers and acquisitions have increased competition from these firms, many of which have significantly greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources than the company. Many of these firms offer their customers more products and research than currently offered by us. These competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new or changing opportunities, technologies and client requirements. These competitors may have lower costs or provide more services, and may offer their customers more favorable commissions, fees or other terms than those offered by the company. To the extent that issuers and purchasers of securities transact business without our assistance, our operating results could be adversely affected.
Historically, we have not engaged in investment banking, although we have recently been authorized to do so.
Many of the companies we compete against, or may compete against in the future, have established investment banking practices that provide them with revenue and capital with which to expand their business and compete for customers and clients. Historically, our business has focused on providing broker-dealer services, alongside investment advisory services, to our customers. Because of this, we generate less revenue, and are less profitable, than many of our competitors who focus principally on investment banking. We’ve recently received approval from regulators to add investment banking to our business lines and have begun to engage in investment banking. This line of business has begun to generate revenue; however, we may not be able to compete effectively with more experienced providers.
We are subject to risks relating to litigation and potential securities laws liability.
We are exposed to substantial risks of liability under federal and state securities laws, other federal and state laws and court decisions, as well as rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC, the Federal Reserve, state securities regulators, FINRA and other self-regulatory organizations (SROs) and foreign regulatory agencies. We are also subject to the risk of litigation and claims that may be without merit. We could incur significant legal expenses in defending ourselves against and resolving lawsuits or claims. An adverse resolution of any future lawsuits or claims against us could result in a negative perception of our company and cause the market price of our common stock to decline or otherwise have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and/or operating results.
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Our computer infrastructure may be vulnerable to security breaches. Any such problems could jeopardize confidential information transmitted over the Internet, cause interruptions in our operations or cause us to have liability to third persons.
Our computer infrastructure is potentially vulnerable to physical or electronic computer break-ins, viruses and similar disruptive problems and security breaches. Any such problems or security breaches could cause us to have liability to one or more third parties and disrupt our operations. A party able to circumvent our security measures could misappropriate proprietary information or customer information, jeopardize the confidential nature of information transmitted over the Internet or cause interruptions in our operations. Concerns over the security of Internet transactions and the privacy of users could also inhibit the growth of the Internet in general, particularly as a means of conducting commercial transactions. To the extent that our activities involve the storage and transmission of proprietary information such as personal financial information, security breaches could expose us to a risk of financial loss, litigation and other liabilities. Our current insurance program may protect us against some, but not all, of such losses. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We are not subject to Sarbanes-Oxley regulations and lack the financial controls and safeguards required of public companies.
We do not have the internal infrastructure necessary, and are not required, to complete an attestation about our financial controls that would be required under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. There can be no assurances that there are no significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the quality of our financial controls. We expect to incur additional expenses and diversion of management’s time when it becomes necessary to perform the system and process evaluation, testing and remediation required to comply with the management certification and auditor attestation requirements.
Risks Related to this Offering and Ownership of our Securities
Due to the lack of a current public market for our common stock, investors may have difficulty in selling stock they purchase.
Prior to this offering, no public trading market existed for our securities. There can be no assurance that a public trading market for our common stock will develop or that a public trading market, if developed, will be sustained. We intend to apply for quotation on the OTC Market. There can be no assurance that such an application for quotation will be approved. Thus, it is anticipated that there will be little or no market for the shares sold in this offering until we are eligible to have our common stock quoted on the OTC Market and as a result, an investor may find it difficult to dispose of any shares purchased hereunder. Because there is none and may be no public market for our stock, we may not be able to secure future equity financing which would have a material adverse effect on our company.
Furthermore, when and if our common stock is eligible for quotation on the OTC Market, there can also be no assurance as to the depth or liquidity of any market for the common stock or the prices at which holders may be able to sell the shares.
As a result, investors could find it more difficult to trade, or to obtain accurate quotations of the market value of, the stock as compared to securities that are traded on the NASDAQ trading market or on an exchange. Moreover, an investor may find it difficult to dispose of any shares purchased hereunder.
Investors may have difficulty in reselling their shares due to the lack of market or state Blue Sky laws.
Our common stock is currently not quoted on any market. No market may ever develop for our common stock, or if developed, may not be sustained in the future. The holders of our shares of common stock and persons who desire to purchase them in any trading market that might develop in the future should be aware that there may be significant state law restrictions upon the ability of investors to resell our shares. Accordingly, even if we are successful in having our securities available for trading on the OTC Market, investors should consider any secondary market for our securities to be a limited one. We intend to seek coverage and publication of information regarding the Company in an accepted publication which permits a “manual exemption.” This manual exemption permits a security to be distributed in a particular state without being registered if the company issuing the security has a listing for that security in a securities manual recognized by the state. However, it is not enough for the security to be listed in a recognized manual. The listing entry must contain (1) the names of issuers, officers, and directors, (2) an issuer’s balance sheet, and (3) a profit and loss statement for either the fiscal year preceding the balance sheet or for the most recent fiscal year of operations. We may not be able to secure a listing containing all of this information. Furthermore, the manual exemption is a non-issuer exemption restricted to secondary trading transactions, making it unavailable for issuers selling newly issued securities. Most of the accepted manuals are those published in Standard and Poor’s, Moody’s Investor Service, Fitch’s Investment Service, and Best’s Insurance Reports, and many states expressly recognize these manuals. A smaller number of states declare that they “recognize securities manuals” but do not specify the recognized manuals. The following states do not have any provisions and therefore do not expressly recognize the manual exemption: Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Montana, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont and Wisconsin. Accordingly, our shares should be considered totally illiquid, which inhibits investors’ ability to resell their shares.
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We will be subject to penny stock regulations and restrictions and you may have difficulty selling shares of our common stock.
The SEC has adopted regulations which generally define so-called “penny stocks” to be an equity security that has a market price less than $5.00 per share or an exercise price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exemptions. We anticipate that our common stock will become a “penny stock”, and we will become subject to Rule 15g-9 under the Exchange Act, or the “Penny Stock Rule.” This rule imposes additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers that sell such securities to persons other than established customers. For transactions covered by Rule 15g-9, a broker-dealer must make a special suitability determination for the purchaser and have received the purchaser’s written consent to the transaction prior to sale. As a result, this rule may affect the ability of broker-dealers to sell our securities and may affect the ability of purchasers to sell any of our securities in the secondary market.
For any transaction involving a penny stock, unless exempt, the rules require delivery, prior to any transaction in a penny stock, of a disclosure schedule prepared by the SEC relating to the penny stock market. Disclosure is also required to be made about sales commissions payable to both the broker-dealer and the registered representative and current quotations for the securities. Finally, monthly statements are required to be sent disclosing recent price information for the penny stock held in the account and information on the limited market in penny stock.
We do not anticipate that our common stock will qualify for exemption from the Penny Stock Rule. In any event, even if our common stock were exempt from the Penny Stock Rule, we would remain subject to Section 15(b)(6) of the Exchange Act, which gives the SEC the authority to restrict any person from participating in a distribution of penny stock, if the SEC finds that such a restriction would be in the public interest.
Sales of our common stock under Rule 144 could reduce the price of our stock.
Upon the consummation of this offering, there will be 1,150,000 shares of our common stock held by non-affiliates and 1,350,000 shares held by affiliates that Rule 144 of the Securities Act defines as restricted securities. Up to 1,000,000 newly issued shares are being qualified in this offering; however, all of the remaining shares will still be subject to the resale restrictions of Rule 144. In general, persons holding restricted securities, including affiliates, must hold their shares for a period of at least six months, may not sell in any 90-day period more than the greater of (i) one percent of the total issued and outstanding shares and (ii) the average weekly trading volume of such shares during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to the sale, and must resell the shares in an unsolicited brokerage transaction at the market price. The availability for sale of substantial amounts of common stock under Rule 144 could reduce prevailing market prices for our securities.
This offering is being conducted on a “best efforts” basis without a minimum and we may not be able to execute our growth strategy if the $5,000,000 maximum is not sold.
If you invest in the common stock and less than all of the offered shares are sold, the risk of losing your entire investment will be increased. We are offering our common stock on a “best efforts” basis without a minimum, and we can give no assurance that all of the offered common stock will be sold. If less than $5,000,000 of common stock shares offered are sold, we may be unable to fund all the intended uses described in this offering circular from the net proceeds anticipated from this offering without obtaining funds from alternative sources or using working capital that we generate. Alternative sources of funding may not be available to us at what we consider to be a reasonable cost, and the working capital generated by us may not be sufficient to fund any uses not financed by offering net proceeds. No assurance can be given to you that any funds will be invested in this offering other than your own.
This is a fixed price offering and the fixed offering price may not accurately represent the current value of us or our assets at any particular time. Therefore, the purchase price you pay for our shares may not be supported by the value of our assets at the time of your purchase.
This is a fixed price offering, which means that the offering price for our shares is fixed and will not vary based on the underlying value of our assets at any time. Our board of directors has determined the offering price in its sole discretion without the input of an investment bank or other third party. The fixed offering price for our shares has not been based on appraisals of any assets we own or may own, or of our company as a whole, nor do we intend to obtain such appraisals. Therefore, the fixed offering price established for our shares may not be supported by the current value of our company or our assets at any particular time.
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Since our officers and directors have substantial influence over our company, the rights of holders of the securities being offered may be materially limited, diluted, or qualified by the rights of other classes of securities and their interests may not be aligned with the interests of our stockholders.
Our officers and directors have significant control over stockholder matters, and the minority stockholders will have little or no control over our affairs. Our officers and directors will own approximately 34% of our outstanding common stock if all of the shares offered herein are sold. The shares offered for sale are exactly the same as the shares of common stock that are currently outstanding. Accordingly, our officers and directors will have control over stockholders matters, such as election of director, amendments to our articles of incorporation, and approval of significant corporate transactions. Furthermore, given the substantial equity interest held by our Chief Executive Officer, he will be able to elect directors who may be in favor of higher executive compensation packages for himself and other officers of our company than independent directors would be. As a result, our minority stockholders will have little or no control over our affairs.
We may, in the future, issue additional shares of common stock, which would reduce investors’ percent of ownership and may dilute our share value.
Our articles of incorporation authorize the issuance of 100,000,000 shares of common stock. Upon completion of this offering, we will have approximately 2,500,000 shares of common stock issued and outstanding. Accordingly, we may issue up to an additional 97,500,000 shares of common stock after this offering. The future issuance of common stock may result in substantial dilution in the percentage of our common stock held by our then existing shareholders. We may value any common stock issued in the future on an arbitrary basis. The issuance of common stock for future services or acquisitions or other corporate actions may have the effect of diluting the value of the shares held by our investors and might have an adverse effect on any trading market for our common stock.
Investors in this offering will experience immediate and substantial dilution.
The offering price of $5.00 per share is substantially higher than the net tangible book value per share of our common stock immediately following this offering. Therefore, if you purchase units in the offering, you will experience immediate and substantial dilution in net tangible book value per underlying share of common stock in relation to the price that you paid for your shares We expect the dilution as a result of the offering to be $3.20 per underlying share of common stock to new investors purchasing our shares in this offering at the offering price if the maximum amount is raised. Accordingly, if we were liquidated at our net tangible book value, you would not receive the full amount of your investment. See the section entitled “Dilution.”
We have broad discretion in the use of the net proceeds from this offering, and our use of the offering proceeds may not yield a favorable return on your investment.
We intend to use the net proceeds of this offering for engineering and prototyping, marketing, production and inventory, administrative and corporate expenses, professional fees and compensation, and working capital reserves. However, our management has broad discretion over how these proceeds are to be used and based on unforeseen technical, commercial or regulatory issues could spend the proceeds in ways with which you may not agree. Moreover, the proceeds may not be invested effectively or in a manner that yields a favorable or any return, and consequently, this could result in financial losses that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We have never paid cash dividends on our common stock and we do not intend to pay dividends for the foreseeable future.
We have paid no cash dividends on our common stock to date and we do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the near term. For the foreseeable future, we intend to retain any earnings to finance the development and expansion of our business, and we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock. Accordingly, investors must be prepared to rely on sales of their shares after price appreciation to earn an investment return, which may never occur. Investors seeking cash dividends should not purchase our shares. Any determination to pay dividends in the future will be made at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on our results of operations, financial condition, contractual restrictions, restrictions imposed by applicable law and other factors our Board deems relevant.
Certain provisions of our articles of incorporation may make it more difficult for a third party to effect a change-of-control.
Our articles of incorporation authorize our board of directors to issue up to 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock. The preferred stock may be issued in one or more series, the terms of which may be determined at the time of issuance by our board of directors without further action by the stockholders. These terms may include voting rights including the right to vote as a series on particular matters, preferences as to dividends and liquidation, conversion rights, redemption rights and sinking fund provisions. The issuance of any preferred stock could diminish the rights of holders of existing shares, and therefore could reduce the value of such shares. In addition, specific rights granted to future holders of preferred stock could be used to restrict our ability to merge with, or sell assets to, a third party. The ability of our board of directors to issue preferred stock could make it more difficult, delay, discourage, prevent or make it costlier to acquire or effect a change-in-control, which in turn could prevent our stockholders from recognizing a gain in the event that a favorable offer is extended and could materially and negatively affect the market price of our common stock.
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Dilution means a reduction in value, control or earnings of the shares the investor owns.
Immediate Dilution
An early-stage company typically sells its shares (or grants options over its shares) to its founders and early employees at a very low cash cost, because they are, in effect, putting their “sweat equity” into the company. When the company seeks cash investments from outside investors, like you, the new investors typically pay a much larger sum for their shares than the founders or earlier investors, which means that the cash value of your stake is diluted because all the shares are worth the same amount, and you paid more than earlier investors for your shares. Dilution may also be caused by pricing securities at a value higher than book value or expenses incurred in the offering.
Purchasers of our shares in this offering will experience an immediate dilution of net tangible book value per share from the public offering price. Dilution in net tangible book value per share represents the difference between the amount per share paid by the purchasers of shares and the net tangible book value per share immediately after this offering.
After giving effect to the sale of our shares in this offering at an assumed public offering price of $5.00 per share, and after deducting the estimated offering expenses payable by us, our adjusted net tangible book value at August 31, 2022 would have been $-309,106, or $-0.16 per share, assuming the sale of the maximum number of shares offered for sale in this offering. Assuming the sale of the maximum number of shares offered for sale in this offering, this represents an immediate increase in net tangible book value per share of $1.97 to the existing stockholders and dilution in net tangible book value per share of $3.20 to new investors who purchase shares in the offering.
The following table sets forth the estimated net tangible book value per share after the offering and the dilution to persons purchasing shares.
Offering price per share | $ | 5.00 | ||
Net tangible book value per share at August 31, 2022 | $ | (0.16 | ) | |
Adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering | $ | 1.80 | ||
Increase in net tangible book value per share to the existing stockholders | $ | 1.96 | ||
Dilution in net tangible book value per share to new investors | $ | 3.20 |
The following table sets forth, assuming the sale of the maximum number of shares offered for sale in this offering (after deducting our estimated offering expenses), the total number of shares previously sold to existing stockholders, the total consideration paid for the foregoing and the average price paid per share. As the table shows, new investors purchasing shares may in certain circumstances pay an average price per share substantially higher than the average price per share paid by our existing stockholders.
Shares Purchased | Total Consideration | Average Price | ||||||||||||||||||
Number | % | Amount | % | Per Share | ||||||||||||||||
Existing Common Stock | 1,500,000 | 60 | % | $ | 700,000 | 12 | % | $ | 0.47 | |||||||||||
New investors | 1,000,000 | 40 | % | $ | 5,000,000 | 88 | % | $ | 5.00 | |||||||||||
Total | 2,500,000 | 100 | % | $ | 5,700,000 | 100 | % | $ |
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Future Dilution
Another important way of looking at dilution is the dilution that happens due to future actions by our company. The investor’s stake in our company could be diluted due to our issuing additional shares. In other words, when we issue more shares, the percentage of our company that you own will go down, even though the value of our company may go up. You will own a smaller piece of a larger company. This increase in number of shares outstanding could result from a stock offering (such as a public offering, a venture capital round or an angel investment), employees exercising stock options, or by conversion of certain instruments (such as convertible bonds, preferred shares or warrants) into stock.
If we decide to issue more shares, an investor could experience value dilution, with each share being worth less than before, and control dilution, with the total percentage an investor owns being less than before. There may also be earnings dilution, with a reduction in the amount earned per share (though this typically occurs only if we offer dividends, and most early stage companies are unlikely to offer dividends, preferring to invest any earnings into the company).
The type of dilution that hurts early-stage investors most occurs when a company sells more shares in a “down round,” meaning at a lower valuation than in earlier offerings. An example of how this might occur is as follows (numbers are for illustrative purposes only):
● | In June 2022, an investor invests $20,000 for shares that represent 2% of a company valued at $1 million. |
● | In December 2022, the company is doing very well and sells $5 million in shares to venture capitalists on a valuation (before the new investment) of $10 million. The investor now owns only 1.3% of the company but the investor’s stake is worth $200,000. |
● | In June 2023, the company has run into serious problems and in order to stay afloat it raises $1 million at a valuation of only $2 million (the “down round”). The investor now owns only 0.89% of the company and the investor’s stake is worth only $26,660. |
This type of dilution might also happen upon conversion of convertible notes into shares. Typically, the terms of convertible notes issued by early-stage companies provide that in the event of another round of financing, the holders of the convertible notes get to convert their notes into equity at a “discount” to the price paid by the new investors, i.e., they get more shares than the new investors would for the same price. Additionally, convertible notes may have a “price cap” on the conversion price, which effectively acts as a share price ceiling. Either way, the holders of the convertible notes get more shares for their money than new investors. In the event that the financing is a “down round,” the holders of the convertible notes will dilute existing equity holders, and even more than the new investors do, because they get more shares for their money. Investors should pay careful attention to the amount of convertible notes that we have issued (and may issue in the future) and the terms of those notes.
If you are making an investment expecting to own a certain percentage of our company or expecting each share to hold a certain amount of value, it’s important to realize how the value of those shares can decrease by actions taken by us. Dilution can make drastic changes to the value of each share, ownership percentage, voting control, and earnings per share.
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We are offering a maximum of 1,000,000 shares of common stock on a no minimum, “best efforts” basis at a price of $5.00 per share for maximum gross proceeds of up to $5,000,000. The minimum subscription amount will be $500. We may waive the minimum investment amount on a case-by-case basis in our sole discretion. There is no minimum number of shares that must be sold in order to close this offering.
The shares will be offered by Alexander Capital, L.P., a broker-dealer registered with the SEC and a member of FINRA, which we refer to as Alexander or the Placement Agent, on a “best efforts” basis pursuant to a Placement Agent Agreement between us and Alexander, which we refer to as the PAA. Pursuant to the PAA, we will pay Alexander, concurrently with each closing of this offering, a cash placement fee equal to 6% of the gross proceeds of such closing. We or Alexander may also ask other FINRA member broker-dealers that are registered with the SEC to participate as soliciting dealers for this offering. We refer to these other broker-dealers as soliciting dealers. We will also pay an additional $25,000 fees to Alexander.
Conflicts of Interest/ Qualified Independent Underwriter
Because our wholly-owned subsidiary, Benjamin Securities Inc., is a FINRA member and is controlled by us, this offering will be conducted in accordance with FINRA Rule 5121(a)(2). This rule requires, among other things, that a qualified independent underwriter has participated in the preparation of this offering circular and has exercised the usual standards of “due diligence” in respect thereto. Alexander has agreed, in addition to acting as placement agent, to act as qualified independent underwriter for this offering.
Under the terms of the PAA, Alexander will:
● | Review investor information, including KYC (Know Your Customer) data, perform AML (Anti Money Laundering), OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) and other compliance background checks, and provide a recommendation to us as to whether or not to accept an investor as a subscriber; |
● | Review each investor’s subscription agreement to confirm such investor’s participation in the offering, and provide a determination to us as to whether or not to accept the use of the subscription agreement for the investor’s participation; |
● | Contact and/or notify us, if needed, to gather additional information or clarification on an investor; |
● | Not provide any investment advice or any investment recommendations to any investor; |
● | Keep investor details and data confidential and not disclose to any third-party except as required by regulators or pursuant to the terms of the agreement (e.g. as needed for AML and background checks); and |
● | Coordinate with third party providers to ensure adequate review and compliance. |
As compensation for the services listed above, we will pay Alexander, concurrently with each closing of the offering, a cash fee equal to six percent (6.00%) of the gross proceeds of such closing. In addition, we will reimburse Alexander for all fees and expenses incurred by them in connection with this offering, up to a maximum of $100,000. Assuming that the maximum offering amount is sold, we estimate that the total fees that we will pay to Alexander will be $406,900 plus the reimbursement expenses.
Process of Subscribing
Prospective investors investing through Alexander will acquire shares of our common stock through book-entry order by opening an account with Alexander or a soliciting dealer who is a member of the selling syndicate along with Alexander. In each such case, RBC Clearing & Custody, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, as Alexander’s clearing firm, or such other soliciting dealer’s clearing firm, which we refer to as the Clearing Firm, shall serve as the clearing firm for the exclusive benefit of such investor. The investor will also be required to complete and submit a subscription agreement.
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Our transfer agent is VStock Transfer, LLC, who we refer to as the Transfer Agent. The Transfer Agent will record and maintain records of the shares of common stock issued of record by us, including shares issued of record to the Depositary Trust Corporation, which we refer to as the DTC, or its nominee, Cede & Co., for the benefit of broker-dealers, including the Clearing Firm. The Clearing Firm, as the clearing firm, will maintain the individual shareholder beneficial records for accounts at Alexander and any soliciting dealers.
The process for investing through Alexander will work in the following manner. The Clearing Firm will enter into a custody agreement with us pursuant to which we will issue uncertificated securities to be held at the Clearing Firm, and the shares of common stock held at the Clearing Firm will be reflected as an omnibus position on our records and the transfer agent’s records in the name of the Clearing Firm, for the exclusive benefit of customers. We will open a brokerage account with the Clearing Firm and the Clearing Firm will hold the shares of common stock to be sold in the offering in book-entry form in our company’s Clearing Firm account. When the common stock is sold, the Clearing Firm maintains a record of each investor’s ownership interest in those securities. Under SEC no-action letters provided to other clearing firms in the past, including the SEC No Action Letter provided to Folio Investments, Inc., dated January 13, 2015, the Clearing Firm is allowed to treat the issuer as a good control location pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 15c3-3(c)(7) under these circumstances. The customer’s funds will not be transferred into a separate account awaiting the initial closing, or any other closing, but will remain in the customer’s account at the Clearing Firm pending instructions to release funds to us if and when we determine to have a closing. The customer will authorize Alexander, through its signing of the subscription agreement to release its subscription funds to us from its account at the Clearing Firm. We intend to apply for DTC eligibility of our shares and if our shares gain DTC eligibility then the shares held in the Clearing Firm accounts will be included in the position of DTC or its nominee, Cede & Co., on the records of the Transfer Agent.
The funds that will be used by an investor purchasing through Alexander or a soliciting dealer appointed by Alexander to purchase the securities are deposited by the investor at the time of the investor’s execution of the subscription agreement into a brokerage account at the Clearing Firm, which will be held by the investor. The funds for the investor’s account held at the Clearing Firm can be provided by check, wire, Automated Clearing House, or ACH, push, ACH pull, direct deposit, Automated Customer Account Transfer Service, or ACATS, or non-ACATS transfer. The funds will remain in the customer’s account after they are deposited and until we determine to have a closing, the prospective investor’s offer is cancelled, or this offering is withdrawn or expired.
We will notify the Clearing Firm when we wish to conduct a closing. The Clearing Firm executes the closing by transferring each investor’s funds from their Alexander accounts (or accounts of a syndicate member that also clears through the Clearing Firm) to our Clearing Firm account and transferring the correct number of book-entry shares to each investor’s account from our Clearing Firm account. The shares are then reflected in the investor’s online account and shown on the investor’s Alexander (or a syndicate member) account statements. Alexander or a syndicate member, as applicable, will also send trade confirmations individually to the investors.
How to Calculate Net Worth. For the purposes of calculating your net worth, it is defined as the difference between total assets and total liabilities. This calculation must exclude the value of your primary residence and may exclude any indebtedness secured by your primary residence (up to an amount equal to the value of your primary residence). In the case of fiduciary accounts, net worth and/or income suitability requirements may be satisfied by the beneficiary of the account or by the fiduciary, if the fiduciary directly or indirectly provides funds for the purchase of the shares in this offering.
In order to purchase the shares in this offering and prior to the acceptance of any funds from an investor, an investor will be required to represent, to our satisfaction, that he is either an accredited investor or is in compliance with the 10% of net worth or annual income limitation on investment in this offering.
Offering Period and Expiration Date
This offering will start on or after the date that the offering statement is qualified by the SEC and will terminate at the earlier of: (1) the date on which the maximum offering amount has been sold, (2) the date which is one year after the offering statement to which this offering circular is attached has been qualified by the SEC or (3) the date on which this offering is earlier terminated by us and Alexander in our sole discretion.
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Pricing of the Offering
Prior to the offering, there has been no public market for our securities. The initial public offering price was determined by our board of directors in its sole discretion without the input of an investment bank or other third party. The principal factors considered in determining the initial public offering price include:
● | the information set forth in this offering circular; |
● | our history and prospects and the history of and prospects for the industry in which we compete; |
● | our past and present financial performance; |
● | our prospects for future earnings and the present state of our development; |
● | the general condition of the securities markets at the time of this offering; |
● | the recent market prices of, and demand for, publicly traded securities of generally comparable companies; and |
● | other factors deemed relevant by us. |
Investment Limitations
As set forth in Title IV of the JOBS Act, there are limits on how many shares an investor may purchase if the offering does not result in a listing on a national securities exchange. The following would apply unless we are able to obtain a listing on a national securities exchange.
Generally, in the case of trading on the over-the-counter markets, no sale may be made to you in this offering if the aggregate purchase price you pay is more than 10% of the greater of your annual income or net worth. Different rules apply to accredited investors and non-natural persons. Before making any representation that your investment does not exceed applicable thresholds, we encourage you to review Rule 251(d)(2)(i)(C) of Regulation A. For general information on investing, we encourage you to refer to www.investor.gov.
Because this is a Tier 2, Regulation A offering, most investors in the case of trading on the over-the-counter markets must comply with the 10% limitation on investment in the offering. The only investor in this offering exempt from this limitation is an “accredited investor” as defined under Rule 501 of Regulation D under the Securities Act. If you meet one of the following tests you should qualify as an accredited investor:
(i) You are a natural person who has had individual income in excess of $200,000 in each of the two most recent years, or joint income with your spouse in excess of $300,000 in each of these years, and have a reasonable expectation of reaching the same income level in the current year;
(ii) You are a natural person and your individual net worth, or joint net worth with your spouse, exceeds $1,000,000 at the time you purchase shares of our common stock in the offering;
(iii) You are an executive officer or general partner of the issuer or a manager or executive officer of the general partner of the issuer;
(iv) You are an organization described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, a corporation, a Massachusetts or similar business trust or a partnership, not formed for the specific purpose of acquiring the shares in this offering, with total assets in excess of $5,000,000;
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(v) You are a bank or a savings and loan association or other institution as defined in the Securities Act, a broker or dealer registered pursuant to Section 15 of the Exchange Act, an insurance company as defined by the Securities Act, an investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, or a business development company as defined in that act, any Small Business Investment Company licensed by the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 or a private business development company as defined in the Investment Advisers Act of 1940;
(vi) You are an entity (including an Individual Retirement Account trust) in which each equity owner is an accredited investor;
(vii) You are a trust with total assets in excess of $5,000,000, your purchase of shares of our common stock in the offering is directed by a person who either alone or with his purchaser representative(s) (as defined in Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act) has such knowledge and experience in financial and business matters that he is capable of evaluating the merits and risks of the prospective investment, and you were not formed for the specific purpose of investing in the shares in this offering; or
(viii) You are a plan established and maintained by a state, its political subdivisions, or any agency or instrumentality of a state or its political subdivisions, for the benefit of its employees, if such plan has assets in excess of $5,000,000.
NOTE: For the purposes of calculating your Net Worth, it is defined as the difference between total assets and total liabilities. This calculation must exclude the value of your primary residence and may exclude any indebtedness secured by your primary residence (up to an amount equal to the value of your primary residence). In the case of fiduciary accounts, net worth and/or income suitability requirements may be satisfied by the beneficiary of the account or by the fiduciary, if the fiduciary directly or indirectly provides funds for the purchase of the shares.
Blue Sky Law Considerations
The holders of our shares of common stock and persons who desire to purchase them in any trading market that might develop in the future should be aware that there may be significant state law restrictions upon the ability of investors to resell our shares. Accordingly, even if we are successful in having the shares available for trading on the OTC Market, investors should consider any secondary market for our securities to be a limited one. There is no guarantee that our stock will ever be quoted on the OTC Market. We intend to seek coverage and publication of information regarding our company in an accepted publication, which permits a “manual exemption”. This manual exemption permits a security to be distributed in a particular state without being registered if the company issuing the security has a listing for that security in a securities manual recognized by the state. However, it is not enough for the security to be listed in a recognized manual. The listing entry must contain (1) the names of issuers, officers, and directors, (2) an issuer’s balance sheet, and (3) a profit and loss statement for either the fiscal year preceding the balance sheet or for the most recent fiscal year of operations. We may not be able to secure a listing containing all of this information. Furthermore, the manual exemption is a non-issuer exemption restricted to secondary trading transactions, making it unavailable for issuers selling newly issued securities. Most of the accepted manuals are those published in Standard and Poor’s, Moody’s Investor Service, Fitch’s Investment Service, and Best’s Insurance Reports, and many states expressly recognize these manuals. A smaller number of states declare that they “recognize securities manuals” but do not specify the recognized manuals. The following states do not have any provisions and therefore do not expressly recognize the manual exemption: Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Montana, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont and Wisconsin.
We currently do not intend to and may not be able to qualify the shares for resale in other states which require shares to be qualified before they can be resold by our shareholders.
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We estimate that, at a per share price of $5.00, the net proceeds from the sale of the 1,000,000 shares in this offering will be approximately $4,593,100, after deducting the estimated offering expenses of approximately $406,900.
We intend to use a portion of the net proceeds of this offering to pay off our existing bridge loan, to redeem a portion of our outstanding preferred stock, to provide working capital for our firm that will allow us to further expand our business in the area of investment banking, for marketing, administrative and corporate expenses, professional fees and compensation, and working capital reserves.
Our existing bridge loan was established in the form of an unsecured promissory note from the Company to the lender. It has a principal amount of $370,000 and bears interest at a rate of 10% per year on the outstanding principal balance.
The following table below sets forth the uses of proceeds assuming the sale of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of the securities offered for sale in this offering by us. For further discussion, see the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Plan of Operations.”
25% of Offering Sold | 50% of Offering Sold | 75% of Offering Sold | 100% of Offering Sold | |||||||||||||
Offering Proceeds | ||||||||||||||||
Shares Sold | 250,000 | 500,000 | 750,000 | 1,000,000 | ||||||||||||
Gross Proceeds | $ | 1,250,000 | $ | 2,500,000 | $ | 3,750,000 | $ | 5,000,000 | ||||||||
Total Before Expenses | $ | 1,250,000 | $ | 2,500,000 | $ | 3,750,000 | $ | 5,000,000 | ||||||||
Offering Expenses | ||||||||||||||||
6% Sales Commission | $ | 75,000 | $ | 150,000 | $ | 225,000 | $ | 300,000 | ||||||||
Other Fees Payable to Alexander | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 | ||||||||||||
Legal & Accounting | 65,000 | 65,000 | 65,000 | 65,000 | ||||||||||||
Publishing/EDGAR | 5,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | ||||||||||||
Transfer Agent | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 | ||||||||||||
Blue Sky Compliance | 11,400 | 11,400 | 11,400 | 11,400 | ||||||||||||
Total Offering Expenses | $ | 181,900 | $ | 256,900 | $ | 331,900 | $ | 406,900 | ||||||||
Amount of Offering Proceeds Available for Use | $ | 1,068,100 | $ | 2,243,100 | $ | 3,418,100 | $ | 4,593,100 | ||||||||
Expenditures | ||||||||||||||||
Payoff of Bridge Loan | $ | 550,000 | $ | 550,000 | $ | 550,000 | $ | 550,000 | ||||||||
Redemption of Preferred Stock (including payment of dividends) | 486,000 | 486,000 | 486,000 | 486,000 | ||||||||||||
Total Expenditures | $ | 1,036,000 | $ | 1,036,000 | $ | 1,036,000 | $ | 1,036,000 | ||||||||
Net Remaining Proceeds | $ | 32,100 | $ | 1,201,100 | $ | 2,382,100 | $ | 3,557,100 |
The above figures represent only estimated costs. This expected use of net proceeds from this offering represents our intentions based upon our current plans and business conditions. The amounts and timing of our actual expenditures may vary significantly depending on numerous factors, including the status of and results from operations. As a result, our management will retain broad discretion over the allocation of the net proceeds from this offering. We may find it necessary or advisable to use the net proceeds from this offering for other purposes, and we will have broad discretion in the application of net proceeds from this offering. Furthermore, we anticipate that we will need to secure additional funding for the fully implement our business plan. Please see the section entitled “Risk Factors” on page 3.
We reserve the right to change the above use of proceeds if management believes it is in the best interests of our company.
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Our Company
We are a holding company that owns all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of Benjamin Securities, Inc., or Benjamin. Benjamin is a boutique investment firm established in 1977 and has been a FINRA licensed broker-dealer since 1979 and a registered investment advisor registered with the SEC since 1987. On May 24, 2022, FINRA granted the application of Benjamin to expand its business to include investment banking services, and the application was confirmed complete by FINRA on October 20, 2022. Our broker-dealer business engages in the purchase and sales of securities for individuals, high net worth individuals and retirement plans with typical investable assets in the range of $100,000 to $5,000,000 in exchange for a commission and our investment advisory business serves the same type of clients for a fee based on a percentage of assets under management. We do not have a minimum account size; rather, we aim to establish long-term relationships with our customers. Our investment strategy is that of the classic value investor, seeking growth and dividends compounding returns for long-term capital appreciation and income. We typically select individual stocks or bonds for our clients based on value, sustainable earnings growth and consistent dividends over time. Investments are diversified across industries and geographical regions and each customer’s portfolio is custom designed based on age, risk tolerance and other personal objectives.
Our Industry
We believe there is significant growth, profit potential, and opportunity in the financial services industry over the near and long term. Growth in overall economic activity, growth in investable funds, and globalization of the world economy over the long term should continue to provide growth in the financial services industry. While the future economic environment may not be as favorable as recent history, we believe these trends will result in long term growth for the financial services industry.
Our Services
Benjamin is currently engaged in the Registered Investment Advisory business where we provide investment selection, securities purchases, and securities sales services for our clients under a fee agreement. These agreements generally pay us a percentage of assets under management, which align our goals of increased revenue with the clients’ goals of asset growth.
We are also engaged in the securities brokerage business where we provide advice and order execution services for a commission.
Benjamin also provides investment banking and capital markets advisory services as well as marketing and sales support for capital market transactions.
Our Customer Base
Our typical customer has between $100,000 and $5,000,000 in investable assets. We believe this market presents opportunity as it is generally underserved by the larger investment firms. Also, many firms that handle accounts in this asset range do not actively manage the assets.
Our capital markets clients are typically smaller companies that need investment banking services too small for larger firms.
Competitive Strengths
Competition is strong in the financial services industry. We compete against small local brokers and asset managers, as well as large, multinational banks, Investment Banking firms, and large asset managers. We believe that we distinguish ourselves by maintaining strong client relationships.
In asset management and securities brokerage, we believe that the methodology we use in making investment decisions (using earnings estimates for one and three year periods as well as price to earnings ratios to calculate what we consider to be a fair market range for the stocks we invest in) distinguishes us from many of the smaller or regional asset managers.
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Growth Strategies
Our strategy is to grow our core businesses of asset management and advisory services. We believe that asset management is one of the fastest growing segments of the financial services industry. Not only will we focus on internal growth of our asset management and advisory services business, but we will also consider acquiring other advisory firms that not only fit with our strategy, but present favorable returns on invested capital.
We intend to expand our investment banking services, as well as principal investments and trading. Investment banking represents an opportunity for us as a member of a selling group, as an underwriter, as well as in mergers and acquisitions advisory work.
In addition, we will be looking to expand our geographic reach. We believe there is plenty of growth opportunity by expanding our geographic reach nationally, as well as internationally.
Our Sales and Marketing Strategy
To date, we have not engaged in any substantial sales and marketing activity and have not invested any significant capital or time seeking to obtain new clients through marketing efforts. Almost all of our clients come through referrals from other clients and others in the industry that we have relationships with. In the future, we plan to increase our business development efforts through participating in industry conferences, enhancing our website, engaging potential clients through social media, advertising and engaging in other customary sales and marketing activities.
Our Intellectual Property
We do not own any material intellectual property.
Employees and Contractors
We currently have 7 full-time employees and 5 part-time employees. Most of our full-time and part-time employees are located in New York. We also rely on independent contractors in the areas of legal and accounting.
Regulation
Our business, as well as the financial services industry generally, is subject to extensive regulation in the United States and elsewhere. As a matter of public policy, regulatory bodies in the United States and the rest of the world are charged with safeguarding the integrity of the securities and other financial markets and with protecting the interests of participants in those markets. In the United States, the SEC is the federal agency responsible for the administration of the federal securities laws. Benjamin, our wholly-owned subsidiary, is registered as a broker-dealer with the SEC and is a FINRA member and it is also registered in 19 states. Accordingly, Benjamin is subject to regulation and oversight by the SEC and FINRA, a self-regulatory organization, which is itself subject to oversight by the SEC and which adopts and enforces rules governing the conduct, and examines the activities, of its member firms. State securities regulators also have regulatory or oversight authority over Benjamin. Our business may also be subject to regulation by foreign governmental and regulatory bodies and self-regulatory authorities in other countries.
Broker-dealers are subject to regulations that cover all aspects of the securities business, including sales methods, trade practices among broker-dealers, use and safekeeping of customers’ funds and securities, capital structure, record-keeping, the financing of customers’ purchases and the conduct and qualifications of directors, officers and employees. In particular, as a registered broker- dealer and member of various self-regulatory organizations, Benjamin is subject to the SEC’s uniform net capital rule, Rule 15c3-1 of the Exchange Act, which specifies the minimum level of net capital a broker-dealer must maintain and also requires that a significant part of its assets be kept in relatively liquid form. The SEC and various self-regulatory organizations impose rules that require notification when net capital falls below certain predefined criteria, limit the ratio of subordinated debt to equity in the regulatory capital composition of a broker-dealer and constrain the ability of a broker-dealer to expand its business under certain circumstances. Additionally, the SEC’s uniform net capital rule imposes certain requirements that may have the effect of prohibiting a broker-dealer from distributing or withdrawing capital and requiring prior notice to the SEC for certain withdrawals of capital.
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The SEC has adopted rule amendments that establish alternative net capital requirements for broker-dealers that are part of a consolidated supervised entity. As a condition to its use of the alternative method, a broker-dealer’s ultimate holding company and affiliates (referred to collectively as a “consolidated supervised entity”) must consent to group-wide supervision and examination by the SEC. If we elect to become subject to the SEC’s group-wide supervision, we will be required to report to the SEC computations of our capital adequacy.
The effort to combat money laundering and terrorist financing is a priority in government policy with respect to financial institutions. The USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 contains anti-money laundering and financial transparency laws and mandates the implementation of various regulations applicable to broker-dealers and other financial services companies, including standards for verifying client identification at account opening, and obligations to monitor client transactions and report suspicious activities.
Through these and other provisions, the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 seeks to promote the identification of parties that may be involved in terrorism or money laundering. Anti-money laundering laws outside the United States contain some similar provisions.
The obligation of financial institutions, including us, to identify their customers, watch for and report suspicious transactions, respond to requests for information by regulatory authorities and law enforcement agencies, and share information with other financial institutions, has required the implementation and maintenance of internal practices, procedures and controls which have increased, and may continue to increase, our costs, and any failure with respect to our programs in this area could subject us to serious regulatory consequences, including substantial fines and, potentially, other liabilities.
Certain of our businesses are subject to compliance with laws and regulations of the United States, state governments, foreign governments and their respective agencies and/or various self- regulatory organizations or exchanges relating to the privacy of client information, and any failure to comply with these regulations could expose us to liability and/or reputational damage.
Additional legislation, changes in rules promulgated by the SEC and self-regulatory organizations or changes in the interpretation or enforcement of existing laws and rules, either in the United States or elsewhere, may directly affect the mode of our operation and profitability.
Legal Proceedings
We know of no existing or pending legal proceedings against us, nor are we involved as a plaintiff in any proceeding or pending litigation. There are no proceedings in which any of our directors, officers or any of their respective affiliates, or any beneficial stockholder, is an adverse party or has a material interest adverse to our interest.
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Our principal offices are located at 750 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 210, Hauppauge, NY 11788. We lease our office space under a lease which currently goes through December 31, 2023 and currently pay a monthly rental rate of approximately $2,874.
We believe that this property has been adequately maintained, is generally in good condition, and is suitable and adequate for our business.
We do not currently lease or own any other real property.
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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of our operations together with our financial statements and related notes appearing at the end of this offering circular. This discussion contains forward-looking statements reflecting our current expectations that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events may differ materially from those contained in these forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this offering circular.
Overview
We are a holding company that owns all of the issued and outstanding stock of Benjamin Securities, Inc., or Benjamin. Benjamin is a boutique investment firm established in 1977, and has been a FINRA licensed broker-dealer since 1979 and a registered investment advisor registered with the SEC since 1987. On May 24, 2022, FINRA granted the application of Benjamin to expand its business to include investment banking services, and the application was confirmed complete by FINRA on October 20, 2022. We have begun to engage in investment banking service and generate revenue. Our broker-dealer business engages in the purchase and sales of securities for individuals, high net worth individuals and retirement plans with typical investable assets in the range of $100,000 to $5,000,000 in exchange for a commission and our investment advisory business serves the same type of clients for a fee based on a percentage of assets under management. We do not have a minimum account size; rather, we aim to establish long-term relationships with our customers. We are classic value investors seeking growth and dividends compounding returns for long-term capital appreciation and income. We typically select individual stocks or bonds based on value, sustainable earnings growth and consistent dividends over time. Investments are diversified across industries and geographical regions and each customer’s portfolio is custom designed based on age, risk tolerance and other personal objectives.
Recent Developments
On June 7, 2022 we completed a 7,500-for-1 forward stock split of our outstanding common stock. As a result of this stock split, our issued and outstanding common stock was increased from 200 shares to 1,500,000 shares. All share and per share information contained in this offering circular reflects this stock split.
Emerging Growth Company
Upon the completion of this offering, we may elect to become a public reporting company under the Exchange Act. We will qualify as an “emerging growth company” under the JOBS Act. As a result, we will be permitted to, and intend to, rely on exemptions from certain disclosure requirements. For so long as we are an emerging growth company, we will not be required to:
● | have an auditor report on our internal controls over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; |
● | comply with any requirement that may be adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding mandatory audit firm rotation or a supplement to the auditor’s report providing additional information about the audit and the financial statements (i.e., an auditor discussion and analysis); |
● | submit certain executive compensation matters to shareholder advisory votes, such as “say-on-pay” and “say-on-frequency;” and |
● | disclose certain executive compensation related items such as the correlation between executive compensation and performance and comparisons of the CEO’s compensation to median employee compensation. |
In addition, Section 107 of the JOBS Act also provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards. In other words, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. We have elected to take advantage of the benefits of this extended transition period. Our financial statements may therefore not be comparable to those of companies that comply with such new or revised accounting standards.
23
We will remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years, or until the earliest of (i) the last day of the first fiscal year in which our total annual gross revenues exceed $1 billion, (ii) the date that we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act, which would occur if the market value of our common shares that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter or (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt during the preceding three year period.
Results of Operations
Comparison of Fiscal Years Ended August 31, 2022 and 2021
The following table sets forth key components of our results of operation for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2022 and August 31, 2021:
Revenue: | For The Years Ended August 31, 2022 and 2021 | |||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Commissions | $ | 544,608 | $ | 439,660 | ||||
Advisory fees | 495,963 | 483,213 | ||||||
Other | (6,492 | ) | 48,734 | |||||
Total revenue | 1,034,079 | 971,607 |
Expenses: | ||||||||
Professional fees | 426,292 | 380,559 | ||||||
Employee compensation and related payroll taxes | 293,139 | 278,110 | ||||||
Commissions and clearance | 125,970 | 98,227 | ||||||
Occupancy | 39,654 | 39,538 | ||||||
Meals, entertainment and auto | 35,818 | 40,693 | ||||||
State and local taxes | 12,921 | 25,555 | ||||||
Exchange fees and dues | 27,401 | 17,561 | ||||||
Data services | 19,784 | 15,273 | ||||||
Dues and subscriptions | 9,973 | 10,227 | ||||||
Telephone | 12,537 | 11,701 | ||||||
Interest expense | 89 | 432 | ||||||
Other | 28,668 | 28,905 | ||||||
Total expenses | 1,032,247 | 946,782 | ||||||
Net loss | $ | (1,832 | ) | $ | (24,826 | ) |
For the year ended August 31, 2022, we generated revenue in the amount of $1,034,079 and our expenses totaled $1,032,247, which consisted primarily of compensation for employees and consultants, professional fees and other expenses incurred in connection with general operations. As a result of the foregoing, our net loss for the year ended August 31, 2022 was $(1,832).
For the year ended August 31, 2021, we generated revenue in the amount of $971,607 and our expenses totaled $946,782, which consisted primarily of compensation for employees and consultants, professional fees and other expenses incurred in connection with general operations. As a result of the foregoing, our net loss for the year ended August 31, 2021 was $(24,826).
Liquidity and Capital Resources
As of August 31, 2022, we had cash and cash equivalents in the amount of $34,304.40 and total liabilities of $535,851.57. The following table sets forth a summary of our cash flows for the periods presented:
Year Ended August 31, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | $ | 22,139 | (10,974 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | (29,500 | ) | (62,000 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 41,663 | 114,638 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 34,304 | $ | 41,664 |
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The auditors’ opinion included in our audited financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2022 contains an explanatory paragraph regarding substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. As reflected in the financial statements, we had an accumulated deficit of $160,958 at August 31, 2022. We also had accounts payable of $75,768, and a note payable of $410,083 on the balance sheet at August 31, 2022. These factors raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. We are attempting to operate and generate sufficient revenue. We also intend to raise additional funds by way of this offering. While we believe in the viability of our strategy, our ability to generate sufficient revenue, and our ability to raise additional funds, there can be no assurances to that effect. Our ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon our ability to further implement our business plan and generate sufficient revenue and our ability to raise additional funds. The financial statements do not include any adjustments related to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should we be unable to continue as a going concern.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
As of August 31, 2022, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires our management to make assumptions, estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported, including the notes thereto, and related disclosures of commitments and contingencies, if any. We have identified certain accounting policies that are significant to the preparation of our financial statements. These accounting policies are important for an understanding of our financial condition and results of operation. Critical accounting policies are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations and require management’s difficult, subjective, or complex judgment, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain and may change in subsequent periods. Certain accounting estimates are particularly sensitive because of their significance to financial statements and because of the possibility that future events affecting the estimate may differ significantly from management’s current judgments. We believe the following critical accounting policies involve the most significant estimates and judgments used in the preparation of our financial statements:
Basis of Accounting
The financial statements are prepared using the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with 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 financial statements, and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates and such differences could be material.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company and its Subsidiary define cash equivalents as highly liquid investments, with original maturities of less than three months that are not held for sale in the ordinary course of business.
25
Revenue Recognition
Effective July 1, 2018, the Company and its Subsidiary, adopted ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC Topic 606”). The new revenue recognition guidance requires that an entity recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance requires an entity to follow a five step model to (a) identify the contract(s) with a customer, (b) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (c) determine the transaction price, (d) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and (e) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. In determining the transaction price, an entity may include variable consideration only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized would not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. The Company and its Subsidiary applied the modified retrospective method of adoption which resulted in no adjustment as of September 1, 2018 to opening members equity. The new revenue recognition guidance does not apply to revenue associated with financial instruments, interest income and expense, leasing and insurance contracts.
Significant Judgement
Significant judgement is required to determine whether performance obligations are satisfied at a point in time or over time; how to allocate transaction prices where multiple performance obligations are identified; when to recognize revenue based on the appropriate measure of the Company and its Subsidiary’s progress under the contract; and whether constraints on variable consideration should be applied due to uncertain future events.
Advisory fees
Advisory fees are earned by the Subsidiary for providing general investor-related advice and are earned, in accordance with the terms of their respective contracts, only when performance obligations have been fully met.
Commission Revenue and Related Clearing Expenses
Commissions for brokering securities transaction, and related clearing expenses are recorded by the Subsidiary when earned, on a trade date basis.
Other revenue
Other revenue includes interest income and reimbursed postage fees. Postage fee reimbursements are recognized as they are incurred.
Disaggregation of Revenue
All of the Company and its Subsidiaries revenues for the year ended August 31, 2022 and 2021 have been disaggregated on the Statement of Income.
Receivables and Contract Balances
Receivables arise when the Company and its Subsidiary have an unconditional right to receive payment under a contract with a customer and are derecognized when the cash is received. There are no receivable balances as of August 31, 2022 and 2021.
26
Contract assets arise when the revenue associated with the contract is recognized prior to the Company and its Subsidiary’s unconditional right to receive payment under a contract with a customer (i.e., unbilled receivable) and are derecognized when either it becomes a receivable or the cash is received. Contract assets are reported in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition. As of August 31, 2022 and 2021, contract asset balances were $0.
Contract liabilities arise when customers remit contractual cash payments in advance of the Company and its Subsidiary satisfying its performance obligations under the contract and are derecognized when the revenue associated with the contract is recognized when the performance obligation is satisfied. As of August 31, 2022 and 2021 there were no contract liabilities.
Due from Clearing Brokers
Deposits with clearing brokers consist of deposits of cash or other short term securities held by other clearing organizations or exchanges. The carrying amounts approximate their fair value due to their short-term nature. This financial instrument generally has no stated maturities or has short-term maturities and carries interest rates that approximate market rates.
Income Taxes
The Company and its Subsidiary are taxed under the provisions of Subchapter C of the Internal Revenue Code. The amount of current and deferred taxes payable is recognized as of the date of the financial statements, utilizing currently enacted tax laws and rates. Deferred tax expenses or benefits are recognized in the financial statements for the changes in deferred tax liabilities or assets between years. The tax years 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2016 remain open to examination by the major taxing jurisdictions to which the entity is subject.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (“ASU 2016-02”). This update requires all leases with a term greater than 12 months to be recognized on the balance sheet through a right of use asset and a lease liability and the disclosure of key information pertaining to leasing arrangements. This new guidance is effective for years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The Company and its Subsidiary are evaluating the effect that ASU 2016-02 will have on its financial statements with related disclosures. The Company and its Subsidiary believe the impact of the ASU is minimal due to the nature of the lease.
27
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND SIGNIFICANT EMPLOYEES
The following table sets forth the name and position of each of our current executive officers, director and significant employees.
Name | Position | Age | Term of Office | Approximate
hours per week for part-time employees | ||||
William Thomas Baker | Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief Financial Officer and Director | 60 | Since 2010 | N/A |
William Thomas Baker, CEO, President, CFO and Director
William Thomas Baker has served as our Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief Financial Officer and our sole director since our inception in 2010 and has served as President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Company’s subsidiary, Benjamin Securities since August 2011.
Directors are elected until their successors are duly elected and qualified.
There are no family relationships between any director, executive officer, or any significant employee.
To the best of our knowledge, none of our directors or executive officers has, during the past five years:
● | been convicted in a criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offences); or |
● | had any petition under the federal bankruptcy laws or any state insolvency law was filed by or against, or a receiver, fiscal agent or similar officer was appointed by a court for the business or property of such person, or any partnership in which he was general partner at or within two years before the time of such filing, or any corporation or business association of which he was an executive officer at or within two years before the time of such filing. |
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COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following table sets forth the annual compensation of each of the three highest paid persons who were executive officers or directors during our last completed fiscal year ended August 31, 2022.
Name | Capacities in which Compensation was received | Cash ($) | Other compensation ($) | Total compensation ($) | ||||||||||
William Thomas Baker | Chief Executive Officer, President and Chief Financial Officer | 217,600 | 0 | 217,600 |
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SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT AND CERTAIN SECURITYHOLDERS
The following table sets forth information regarding beneficial ownership of our voting stock as of April 20, 2023 (i) by each of our three highest paid officers and directors; (ii) by all of our officers and directors as a group; and (iii) by each shareholder who beneficially owns more than 10% of any class of our voting securities. Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Except as set forth below, each of the beneficial owners listed below has direct ownership of and sole voting power and investment power with respect to the shares. Unless otherwise specified, the address of each of the persons set forth below is in care of our company at 750 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 210, Hauppauge, NY 11788.
Title of Class | Name and address of beneficial owner | Amount and nature of beneficial ownership | Amount and nature of beneficial ownership acquirable(1) | Percent of class(2) | ||||||||||
Common Stock | William Thomas Baker | 850,200 | - | 56.68 | % | |||||||||
Common Stock | All directors and officers as a group | 850,200 | - | 56.68 | % | |||||||||
Common Stock | Peter Williams | 300,000 | 20,00 | % | ||||||||||
Common Stock | Gregory Adams | 199,800 | 13.32 | % |
(1) | Includes any securities acquirable within 60 days in accordance with SEC Rule 13d-3(d)(1). |
(2) | Based on 1,500,000 shares of our common stock outstanding as of April 20, 2023. |
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INTEREST OF MANAGEMENT AND OTHERS IN CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
There have not been any transactions since the beginning of our 2021 fiscal year, nor is there any currently proposed transaction, in which our company was or is to be a participant and the amount involved exceeded or exceeds the lesser of $120,000 and one percent of the average of our total assets at year-end for the last two completed fiscal years, and in which any related person had or will have a direct or indirect material interest (other than compensation described under “Compensation of Directors and Executive Officers”).
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This offering relates to the sale of up to 1,000,000 shares of common stock of our company.
Our authorized capital stock consists of 100,000,000 shares of common stock, $.0001 par value per share, and 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $.0001. As of the date of this offering circular, there are 1,500,000 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding and 14 shares of preferred stock issued and outstanding. We expect to redeem 10 of the 14 issued and outstanding preferred shares using a portion of the proceeds of this offering. See the section entitled “Use of Proceeds.”
The following is a summary of the rights of our capital stock as provided in our articles of incorporation and bylaws. For more detailed information, please see our articles of incorporation and bylaws, which have been filed as exhibits to the offering statement of which this offering circular is a part.
Common Stock
Voting Rights. The holders of the common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held of record on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders. Under our articles of incorporation and bylaws, any corporate action to be taken by vote of stockholders other than for election of directors shall be authorized by the affirmative vote of the majority of votes cast. Directors are elected by a plurality of votes. Stockholders do not have cumulative voting rights.
Dividend Rights. Subject to preferences that may be applicable to any then-outstanding preferred stock, holders of common stock are entitled to receive ratably those dividends, if any, as may be declared from time to time by the board of directors out of legally available funds.
Liquidation Rights. In the event of our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, holders of common stock will be entitled to share ratably in the net assets legally available for distribution to stockholders after the payment of all of our debts and other liabilities and the satisfaction of any liquidation preference granted to the holders of any then-outstanding shares of preferred stock.
Other Rights. Holders of common stock have no preemptive, conversion or subscription rights and there are no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to the common stock. The rights, preferences and privileges of the holders of common stock are subject to, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of shares of any series of preferred stock.
Preferred Stock
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation authorizes our board to issue up to 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series, to determine the designations and the powers, preferences and rights and the qualifications, limitations and restrictions thereof, including the dividend rights, conversion or exchange rights, voting rights (including the number of votes per share), redemption rights and terms, liquidation preferences, sinking fund provisions and the number of shares constituting the series. Our board of directors could, without stockholder approval, issue preferred stock with voting and other rights that could adversely affect the voting power and other rights of the holders of common stock and which could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or of discouraging a third party from attempting to acquire, a majority of our outstanding voting stock.
Series A and Series B Preferred Stock. We are authorized to issue 7 shares of Series A preferred stock and 7 shares of Series B preferred stock, all of which have been issued and are outstanding. The Series A and Series B Preferred Stock have the following rights and preferences:
Ranking. With respect to dividend rights and rights on liquidation, winding up and dissolution, shares of our Series A and Series B preferred stock rank senior to all shares of common stock.
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Liquidation Rights. In the event of our voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up or certain mergers, consolidations and asset sales, before any payment is made to the holders of our common stock, the holders of our Series A and Series B preferred stock shall be entitled to be paid out of the funds and assets available for distribution to our stockholders, an amount per share equal to one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) for each such share of Series A and Series B preferred stock, which amount we refer to as the Series A and B liquidation preference, plus any dividends accrued but unpaid thereon. If upon any such events, the funds and assets available for distribution to our stockholders is insufficient to pay the Series A and Series B preferred stockholders the full amount to which they are entitled, the Series A and Series B preferred stockholders shall share ratably in any distribution of the funds and assets available for distribution in proportion to the respective amounts that would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares of Series A and Series B preferred stock held by them upon such distribution if all amounts payable on or with respect to such shares were paid in full.
Dividend Rights. Holders of Series A and Series B preferred stock are entitled to receive dividends at the rate per annum of 10.0% of the original per share purchase price of $50,000, which dividends shall be cumulative.
Board of Directors. Holders of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock are entitled to elect one member of the Company’s Board of Directors.
Transfer Agent and Registrar
We have engaged Vstock Transfer, LLC as our transfer agent and registrar. Vstock address is 8 Lafayette Place, Woodmere, NY 11598 and its telephone number is (212) 828-8436. Vstock maintains a website at www.vstocktransfer.com.
Shares Eligible for Future Sale
Prior to this offering, there was no public market for our common stock. We cannot predict the effect, if any, that market sales of shares of our common stock or the availability of shares of our common stock for sale will have on the market price of our common stock. Sales of substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market could adversely affect the market price of our shares.
The 2,500,000 shares of common stock outstanding after this offering will be restricted as a result of securities laws. Restricted securities may be sold in the public market only if they have been registered or if they qualify for an exemption from registration under Rule 144 under the Securities Act.
Rule 144
A person who has beneficially owned restricted shares of common stock for at least six months would be entitled to sell their shares provided that (1) such person is not deemed to have been one of our affiliates at the time of, or at any time during the three months preceding, a sale and (2) we are subject to the Exchange Act periodic reporting requirements for at least three months before the sale. Persons who have beneficially owned restricted shares of common stock for at least six months but who are our affiliates at the time of, or any time during the three months preceding, a sale, would be subject to additional restrictions, by which such person would be entitled to sell within any three-month period a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of either of the following:
● | 1% of the number of shares then outstanding, which will equal 25,000 shares of common stock immediately after this offering; and |
● | the average weekly trading volume of the shares of common stock during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to the sale. |
Sales under Rule 144 are also limited by manner of sale provisions and notice requirements and to the availability of current public information about us.
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The validity of the common stock offered hereby will be passed upon for us by Bevilacqua PLLC.
Our financial statements for the years ended August 31, 2021 and 2022 included in this offering circular have been audited by BF Borgers CPA PC, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in its report appearing herein. Such financial statements have been so included in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon its authority as an expert in accounting and auditing.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We have filed with the SEC an offering statement on Form 1-A under the Securities Act with respect to the common stock offered by this offering circular. This offering circular does not contain all of the information included in the offering statement, portions of which are omitted as permitted by the rules and regulations of the SEC. For further information pertaining to us and the common stock to be sold in this offering, you should refer to the offering statement and its exhibits. Whenever we make reference in this offering circular to any of our contracts, agreements or other documents, the references are not necessarily complete, and you should refer to the exhibits attached to the offering statement for copies of the actual contract, agreement or other document filed as an exhibit to the offering statement or such other document, each such statement being qualified in all respects by such reference. Upon the closing of this offering, we will be subject to the informational requirements of Tier 2 of Regulation A and will be required to file annual reports, semi-annual reports, current reports and other information with the SEC. We anticipate making these documents publicly available, free of charge, on our website as soon as reasonably practicable after filing such documents with the SEC.
You can read the offering statement and our future filings with the SEC over the Internet at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy any document we file with the SEC at its public reference facility at 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549. You may also obtain copies of the documents at prescribed rates by writing to the Public Reference Section of the SEC. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public reference facilities.
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Page | |
Audited Financial Statements for the Years Ended August 31, 2022 and 2021 | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | F-2 |
Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition as of August 31, 2022 and 2021 | F-3 |
Consolidated Statement of Income for the Years Ended August 31, 2022 and 2021 | F-4 |
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the Years Ended August 31, 2022 and 2021 | F-5 |
Statement of Cash Flows for the Years Ended August 31, 2022 and 2021 | F-6 |
F-7 |
F-1
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the shareholders and the board of directors of Baker Global Asset Management, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Baker Global Asset Management, Inc. as of August 31, 2022 and 2021, the related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity (deficit), and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of August 31, 2022 and 2021, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
Substantial Doubt about the Company’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 2 to the financial statements, the Company has suffered losses from operations and has a significant accumulated deficit. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 2. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/S/ BF Borgers CPA PC
BF Borgers CPA PC (PCAOB ID 5041)
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2020
Lakewood, CO
April 20, 2023
F-2
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
As of August 31, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Cash | $ | 34,304 | $ | 114,638 | ||||
Due from clearing brokers | 183,323 | 116,779 | ||||||
Loan receivables | - | - | ||||||
Securities not readily marketable | 3 | 10,864 | ||||||
Other assets | 9,116 | 11,368 | ||||||
Total assets | $ | 226,746 | $ | 180,674 | ||||
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY | ||||||||
Liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued expenses | $ | 75,768 | $ | 52,030 | ||||
Note payable | 410,083 | 410,083 | ||||||
Bank loan payable | 50,000 | - | ||||||
Total liabilities | 535,852 | 462,113 | ||||||
STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY: | ||||||||
Capital stock | 2,900 | 2,900 | ||||||
Preferred stock | 598,015 | 598,015 | ||||||
Return of capital | (682,063 | ) | (657,563 | ) | ||||
Dividends paid | (67,000 | ) | (62,000 | ) | ||||
Accumulated deficit | (160,958 | ) | (162,791 | ) | ||||
Total stockholder’s equity | (309,106 | ) | (281,439 | ) | ||||
Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity | $ | 226,746 | $ | 180,674 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this statement.
F-3
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
For The Year Ended August 31, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Revenue: | ||||||||
Commissions | $ | 544,608 | $ | 439,660 | ||||
Advisory fees | 495,963 | 483,213 | ||||||
Other | (6,492 | ) | 48,734 | |||||
Total revenue | 1,034,079 | 971,607 | ||||||
Expenses: | ||||||||
Professional fees | 426,292 | 380,559 | ||||||
Employee compensation and related payroll taxes | 293,139 | 278,110 | ||||||
Commissions and clearance | 125,970 | 98,227 | ||||||
Occupancy | 39,654 | 39,538 | ||||||
Meals, entertainment and auto | 35,818 | 40,693 | ||||||
State and local taxes | 12,921 | 25,555 | ||||||
Exchange fees and dues | 27,401 | 17,561 | ||||||
Data services | 19,784 | 15,273 | ||||||
Dues and subscriptions | 9,973 | 10,227 | ||||||
Telephone | 12,537 | 11,701 | ||||||
Interest expense | 89 | 432 | ||||||
Other | 28,668 | 28,905 | ||||||
Total expenses | 1,032,247 | 946,782 | ||||||
Net profit/loss | $ | 1,832 | $ | 24,826 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this statement.
F-4
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
CONDOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY
AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
CAPITAL | PREFERRED | RETURN OF | DIVIDENDS | ACCUMULATED | TOTAL STOCKHOLDER’S | |||||||||||||||||||
STOCK | STOCK | CAPITAL | PAID | DEFICIT | EQUITY | |||||||||||||||||||
STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY, AUGUST 31, 2018 | $ | 2,900 | $ | 598,015 | $ | (444,264 | ) | $ | (15,000 | ) | $ | (40,481 | ) | $ | 101,170 | |||||||||
RETURN OF CAPITAL | (145,725 | ) | (145,725 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
NET LOSS | (127,454 | ) | (127,454 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY, AUGUST 31, 2019 | 2,900 | 598,015 | (589,989 | ) | (15,000 | ) | (167,935 | ) | (172,009 | ) | ||||||||||||||
RETURN OF CAPITAL | (52,573 | ) | (52,573 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
NET LOSS | 24,826 | 24,826 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | $ | 2,900 | $ | 598,015 | $ | (642,562 | ) | $ | (15,000 | ) | $ | (187,617 | ) | $ | (244,264 | ) | ||||||||
RETURN OF CAPITAL | (15,000 | ) | (47,000 | ) | (62,000 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
NET LOSS | 24,826 | 24,826 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY, AUGUST 31, 2021 | $ | 2,900 | $ | 598,015 | $ | (657,562 | ) | $ | (62,000 | ) | $ | (162,791 | ) | (281,438 | ) | |||||||||
RETURN OF CAPITAL | $ | (24,501 | ) | $ | (5,000 | ) | $ | $ | (29,501 | ) | ||||||||||||||
NET INCOME | 1,834 | 1,834 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY, AUGUST 31, 2022 | $ | 2,900 | $ | 598,015 | $ | (682,063 | ) | $ | (67,000 | ) | $ | (160,957 | ) | (309,106 | ) |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this statement.
F-5
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
For The Year Ended August 31, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 1,832 | $ | 24,826 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities: | ||||||||
(Increase) decrease in operating assets: | ||||||||
Due from clearing brokers | (66,544 | ) | 38,322 | |||||
Loan receivables | - | - | ||||||
Securities not readily marketable | 10,861 | (4,578 | ) | |||||
Other assets | 2,252 | 12,865 | ||||||
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 23,738 | (45,309 | ) | |||||
Note payable | 50,000 | - | ||||||
Bank loan payable | - | (37,100 | ) | |||||
Net cash used in operating activities | 22,139 | (10,974 | ) | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Return of capital | (29,500 | ) | (62,000 | ) | ||||
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities | (29,500 | ) | (62,000 | ) | ||||
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH | (7,360 | ) | (72,974 | ) | ||||
CASH AT BEGINNING OF THE YEAR | 41,663 | 114,638 | ||||||
CASH AT END OF THE YEAR | $ | 34,304 | $ | 41,664 | ||||
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: | ||||||||
Cash paid during the year for: | ||||||||
Interest and penalties | $ | - | $ | - | ||||
Income taxes | $ | - | $ | - |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this statement.
F-6
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
1. Organization and Nature of Business
Baker Global Asset Management, Inc. (the “Company”) is a Corporation that was formed in the state of New York and commenced operations on May 12, 2010. The Company wholly-owns Benjamin Securities, Inc. (the “Subsidiary”).
Benjamin Securities, Inc. (the “Subsidiary”), was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware, is a broker-dealer registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”). The Company does not clear trades or carry customer accounts. The Company has entered into clearing agreements with unaffiliated registered broker-dealers (the “clearing brokers”) that are members of the New York Stock Exchange and other national securities exchanges to provide these services. The clearing brokers are responsible for customer billing, recordkeeping, custody of securities and securities clearance on a fully disclosed basis.
The Subsidiary acts as an introducing broker, and its activities consist of accepting customer orders for equity and fixed income securities that are executed and processed by the clearing broker.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of accounting
The financial statements are prepared using the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Use of estimates
The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with 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 financial statements, and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates and such differences could be material.
Cash and cash equivalents
The Company and its Subsidiary define cash equivalents as highly liquid investments, with original maturities of less than three months that are not held for sale in the ordinary course of business.
F-7
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Revenue recognition
Effective July 1, 2018, the Company and its Subsidiary, adopted ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC Topic 606”). The new revenue recognition guidance requires that an entity recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance requires an entity to follow a five step model to (a) identify the contract(s) with a customer, (b) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (c) determine the transaction price, (d) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and (e) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. In determining the transaction price, an entity may include variable consideration only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized would not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. The Company and its Subsidiary applied the modified retrospective method of adoption which resulted in no adjustment as of September 1, 2018 to opening members equity. The new revenue recognition guidance does not apply to revenue associated with financial instruments, interest income and expense, leasing and insurance contracts.
Significant Judgement
Significant judgement is required to determine whether performance obligations are satisfied at a point in time or over time; how to allocate transaction prices where multiple performance obligations are identified; when to recognize revenue based on the appropriate measure of the Company and its Subsidiary’s progress under the contract; and whether constraints on variable consideration should be applied due to uncertain future events.
Advisory fees
Advisory fees are earned by the Subsidiary for providing general investor-related advice and are earned, in accordance with the terms of their respective contracts, only when performance obligations have been fully met.
Commission Revenue and Related Clearing Expenses
Commissions for brokering securities transaction, and related clearing expenses are recorded by the Subsidiary when earned, on a trade date basis.
Other revenue
Other revenue includes interest income and reimbursed postage fees. Postage fee reimbursements are recognized as they are incurred.
Disaggregation of Revenue
All of the Company and its Subsidiaries revenues for the year ended August 31, 2022 and 2021 have been disaggregated on the Statement of Income.
F-8
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Revenue recognition (continued)
Receivables and Contract Balances
Receivables arise when the Company and its Subsidiary have an unconditional right to receive payment under a contract with a customer and are derecognized when the cash is received. There are no receivable balances as of August 31, 2022 and 2021.
Contract assets arise when the revenue associated with the contract is recognized prior to the Company and its Subsidiary’s unconditional right to receive payment under a contract with a customer (i.e., unbilled receivable) and are derecognized when either it becomes a receivable or the cash is received. Contract assets are reported in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition. As of August 31, 2022 and 2021, contract asset balances were $0.
Contract liabilities arise when customers remit contractual cash payments in advance of the Company and its Subsidiary satisfying its performance obligations under the contract and are derecognized when the revenue associated with the contract is recognized when the performance obligation is satisfied. As of August 31, 2022 and 2021, there were no contract liabilities.
3. Due from clearing brokers
Deposits with clearing brokers consist of deposits of cash or other short term securities held by other clearing organizations or exchanges. The carrying amounts approximate their fair value due to their short-term nature. This financial instrument generally has no stated maturities or has short-term maturities and carries interest rates that approximate market rates.
4. Income taxes
The Company and its Subsidiary are taxed under the provisions of Subchapter C of the Internal Revenue Code. The amount of current and deferred taxes payable is recognized as of the date of the financial statements, utilizing currently enacted tax laws and rates. Deferred tax expenses or benefits are recognized in the financial statements for the changes in deferred tax liabilities or assets between years. The tax years 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018 and 2017 remain open to examination by the major taxing jurisdictions to which the entity is subject.
5. Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (“ASU 2016-02”). This update requires all leases with a term greater than 12 months to be recognized on the balance sheet through a right of use asset and a lease liability and the disclosure of key information pertaining to leasing arrangements. This new guidance is effective for years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The Company and its Subsidiary are evaluating the effect that ASU 2016-02 will have on its financial statements with related disclosures. The Company and its Subsidiary believe the impact of the ASU is minimal due to the nature of the lease.
F-9
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
6. Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk
In the normal course of business, the Subsidiary’s customer activities involve the execution and settlement of various customer securities transactions. The activities may expose the Company and its Subsidiary to off-balance-sheet risk in the event the customer or the other broker is unable to fulfill its contracted obligations and the Subsidiary has to purchase or sell the financial instrument underlying the contract at a loss. The Subsidiary does not carry the accounts of their customers and does not process or safekeep customer funds or securities, and is therefore exempt from rule 15c3-3 of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
7. Concentration of Credit Risk
Cash
The Company and its Subsidiary maintain principally all cash balances in two financial institution which, at times, may exceed the amount insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The exposure to the Company and its Subsidiary is solely dependent upon daily bank balances and the strength of the financial institution. The Company and its Subsidiary have not incurred any losses on this account. At August 31, 2021 and August 31, 2022, the amount in excess of insured limits were $0, respectively.
8. Fixed Assets
Fixed assets consisted of the following as of August 31, 2022 and 2021:
Useful Life | ||||||
Fixed Assets | $ | 1,251 | 5 years | |||
Less: Accumulated depreciation | 1,251 | |||||
Net fixed assets | $ | - |
Fixed assets are fully depreciated as of August 31, 2022 and 2021.
9. COVID-19
Management is currently evaluating the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the financial services industry and has concluded that while it is reasonably possible that the virus could have a negative effect on the Company’s operations, the specific impact is not readily determinable as of the date of these financial statements. The Consolidate financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
10. Bank Loan Payable
In response to COVID-19, the Subsidiary submitted an SBA loan application for $37,100, which was computed based on the qualifying expenses in 2019. The Subsidiary was approved by its bank and the SBA and the loan was issued to the Subsidiary on April 20, 2020. The amount of the loan is reported on the Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition as Bank Loan Payable. The Subsidiary has qualified and been formally granted full loan forgiveness.
F-10
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2022 AND 2021
11. Note Payable
The Company entered into a note and warrant agreement with a third party (“the Holder”) on July 19, 2019 which was then amended on September 30, 2020. The Holder purchased an unsecured promissory note (the “Note”) issued by the Company in the amount of $370,000, at an interest rate of 10% per annum. In connection with such purchase of the Note, the Holder also received a warrant for the purchase of such number of shares of the Common Stock of the Company, no par value per share that is equal to the quotient of $37,000 divided by divided by the price per share at which securities of the Company are sold in its next planned offering under Reg A of the Act or any other public or private offering of its securities (the “Warrant”). The Note and accrued interest was $410,083 as of August 31, 2021 and $410,083 as of August 31, 2022.
12. Subsequent Events
The Company and its Subsidiary have evaluated events subsequent to the statement of financial condition date for items requiring recording or disclosure in the Consolidated financial statements. The evaluation was performed through the date the financial statements were available to be issued. The Company intends to make a Reg A offering of its securities which they estimate will have a significant impact to its future operations.
F-11
PART III – EXHIBITS
Exhibit Index
III-1
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Regulation A, the issuer certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 1-A and has duly caused this offering statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Hauppauge, County of Suffolk, State of New York on April 20, 2023.
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ William Thomas Baker | |
William Thomas Baker CEO, President and Chief Compliance Officer |
This offering statement has been signed by the following persons, in the capacities, and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATE | ||
/s/ William Thomas Baker | CEO, President and Chief Financial Officer | April 20, 2023 | ||
William Thomas Baker | (principal executive officer and principal financial and accounting officer) |
III-2
Exhibit 2.1
RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
BAKER GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT INC.
Under Section 807 of the Business Corporation Law
Baker Global Asset Management Inc. (the “Corporation”), a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the provisions of the Business Corporation Law, does hereby certify as follows:
1. | The name of the Corporation is Baker Global Asset Management Inc. |
2. | The Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation was filed with the Department of State of the State of New York on May 13, 2010. |
3. | The Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation, as previously amended, is further amended as follows: |
(a) | paragraph FOURTH is hereby amended to increase the number of shares of common stock which the Corporation is authorized to issue from 200 shares of common stock, $0.0001 par value per share, to 100,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.0001 par value per share; |
(b) | paragraph FOURTH is hereby amended to increase the number of shares of preferred stock which the Corporation is authorized to issue from 100 shares of preferred stock, $0.0001 par value per share, to 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $0.0001 par value per share; |
(c) | paragraph FOURTH is hereby amended to create two series of preferred stock designated as “Series A Preferred Stock” and “Series B Preferred Stock; |
(d) | paragraph FIFTH is hereby amended to change the mailing address of the Corporation; and |
(e) | a new Paragraph NINTH is hereby added to provide for written consent of shareholders. |
4. | To effect the foregoing amendments, the text of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation, as previously amended, is hereby restated as amended to read in full as follows: |
FIRST: The name of the Corporation is Baker Global Asset Management Inc.
SECOND: The Corporation is formed to engage in any lawful act for which a corporation may be organized under the Business Corporation Law, provided that it was not formed to engage in any act or activity requiring the consent or approval of any state official, department, board, agency or other body.
THIRD: The office of the Corporation is to be located in County of Suffolk, State of New York.
FOURTH: The aggregate number of shares of capital stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is 150,000,000, consisting of (a) 100,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.0001 par value per share (the “Common Stock”), and (b) 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $0.0001 par value per share (the “Preferred Stock”).
The following is a statement fixing certain of the designations and powers, voting powers, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other rights of the Preferred Stock of the Corporation, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, and of the authority with respect thereto expressly granted the Board of Directors of the Corporation to fix any such provisions not fixed by the Certificate of Incorporation.
The Board of Directors is hereby expressly vested with the authority to adopt a resolution or resolutions providing for the issue of authorized but unissued shares of Preferred Stock, which shares may be issued from time to time in one or more series and in such amounts as may be determined by the Board of Directors in such resolution or resolutions. The powers, voting powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, if any, of each series of Preferred Stock and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions, if any, of such preferences and/or rights (collectively, the "Series Terms"), shall be such as are stated and expressed in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issue of such series of Preferred Stock (the "Series Terms resolution") adopted by the Board of Directors. The powers of the Board of Directors with respect to the Series Terms of a particular series (any of which powers may by resolution of the Board of Directors be specifically delegated to one or more of its committees, except as prohibited by law) shall include, but not be limited to, determination of the following:
i. | The number of shares constituting that series and the distinctive designation of that series; |
ii. | The dividend rate on the shares of that series, whether such dividends, if any, shall be cumulative, and, if so, the date or dates from which dividends payable on such shares shall cumulate, and the relative rights of priority, if any, of payment of dividends on shares of that series; |
iii. | Whether that series shall have voting rights, in addition to any voting rights provided by law, and, if so, the terms of such voting rights; |
iv. | Whether that series shall have conversion privileges with respect to shares of any other class or classes of stock or of any other series of any class of stock, and, if so, the terms and conditions of such conversion, including provision for adjustment of the conversion rate upon occurrence of such events as the Board of Director shall determine; |
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v. | Whether the shares of that series shall be redeemable, and, if so, the terms and conditions of such redemption, including their relative rights of priority, if any, or redemption, the date or dates upon or after which they shall be redeemable, provisions regarding redemption notices, and the amount payable per share in case of redemption, which amount may vary under different conditions and at different redemption dates. |
vi. | Whether that series shall have a sinking fund for the redemption or purchase of shares of that series, and, if so, the terms and amount of such sinking fund; |
vii. | The rights of the shares of that series in the event of voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the Corporation, and the relative rights of priority, if any, of payment of shares of that series. |
viii. | The conditions or restrictions upon the creation of indebtedness of the Corporation or upon the issuance of additional Preferred Stock or other capital stock ranking on a parity therewith, or prior thereto, with respect to dividends or distribution of assets upon liquidation; |
ix. | The conditions or restrictions with respect to the issuance of, payment of dividends upon, or the making of other distributions to, or the acquisition or redemption, shares ranking junior to the Preferred Stock or to any series thereof with respect to dividends or distribution of assets upon liquidation; and |
x. | Any other designations, preferences, powers and rights and any qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereon. |
Pursuant to this Paragraph FOURTH, 7 shares of the authorized Preferred Stock of the Corporation are hereby designated as Series A Preferred Stock (“Series A Preferred Stock”) and 7 shares of the authorized Preferred Stock of the Corporation are hereby designated as Series B Preferred Stock (“Series B Preferred Stock”). The Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock shall have the following rights, preferences, powers, and restrictions, qualifications and limitations. Unless otherwise indicated, references to “Sections” in this Paragraph Fourth refer to sections of this Paragraph Fourth.
1. Liquidation, Dissolution or Winding Up; Certain Mergers, Consolidations and Asset Sales.
1.1 Payments to Holders of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock. In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or any Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined below), before any payment shall be made to the holders of Common Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, the holders of shares of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the funds and assets available for distribution to its stockholders, an amount per share equal to two (2) times the Original Issue Price (as defined below) for the Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock, as applicable, plus all cumulative and unpaid dividends (the "Liquidation Preference"). After the payment of the Liquidation Preference to the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock and holders of Series B Preferred Stock, the remaining assets shall be distributed ratably to the holders of the Common Stock. If upon any such liquidation, dissolution or winding up or Deemed Liquidation Event of the Corporation, the funds and assets available for distribution to the stockholders of the Corporation shall be insufficient to pay the holders of shares of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock the full amount to which they are entitled under this Section 1.1, the holders of shares of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock shall share ratably in any distribution of the funds and assets available for distribution in proportion to the respective amounts that would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares of Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock held by them upon such distribution if all amounts payable on or with respect to such shares were paid in full. The “Original Issue Price” with respect to Series A Preferred Stock shall mean $50,000 per share, and with respect to Series B Preferred Stock shall mean $50,000 per share.
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1.2 Deemed Liquidation Events. A merger, reorganization or other acquisition type transaction in which control of the Corporation or all or substantially all of its assets is transferred will be treated by holders of Series A Preferred Stock and holders of Series B Preferred Stock as a liquidation (a “Deemed Liquidation Event”).
2. Voting.
2.1 General. Holders of Series A Preferred Stock and holders of Series B Preferred Stock shall not have any right to vote on any matters coming before the stockholders of the Corporation for a vote, except as expressly required by the New York Business Corporation Law.
2.2 Election of Board of Directors. Notwithstanding the foregoing, holders of the Series A Preferred Stock and holders of the Series B Preferred Stock, voting together as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect one member of the Corporation's Board of Directors. The number of Board members shall be no more than three (3).
2.3 Protective Provision. The unanimous consent of the Series A Preferred Stock and the Series B Preferred Stock, voting as separate series, shall be required for the following actions: (i) any amendment or waiver of provisions of the Corporation's Articles or Bylaws that adversely affects the rights, preferences and privileges of the Series A Preferred Stock or the Series B Preferred Stock; (ii) any action that authorizes, creates or issues shares of stock or debt providing for rights, preferences or privileges superior to or on a parity with the Series A Preferred Stock or the Series B Preferred Stock; and (iii) entering into aggregate debt of more than $125,000 after the Corporation acquires all regulatory approvals to its acquisition of the shares of Benjamin Securities, Inc.
3. Dividends. The holders of the Series A Preferred Stock and holders of the Series B Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive out of legally available funds, dividends at the rate of 10% of the Original Issue Price per annum, payable when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors. Dividends shall be cumulative.
4. Redemption of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock. After seven (7) years following issuance thereof and at the request of the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock or holders of the Series B Preferred Stock, all or part of the Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock may be redeemed at 100% of its respective Original Issue Price plus all cumulative and unpaid dividends.
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5. Information and Registration Rights. The holders of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock shall receive standard information rights, including the right to receive annual audited financial reports, an annual budget and business plan. The holders of the Series A Preferred Stock and the Series B Preferred Stock shall have standard inspection and visitation rights. Such rights shall terminate upon the closing of the Corporation’s initial public offering, including an initial public offering under Regulation A of the Securities Act (the “Qualifying IPO”). The holders of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock will have demand, piggyback and S-3 registration rights with expenses payable by the Corporation. The registration rights may be transferred to a transferee who acquires at least 50% of the shares of any holder of Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock shares. Transfer of registration rights to a partner or affiliate of the holders of Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock will be without restrictions as to minimum share holdings.
6. Preemptive Rights. The holders of Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock shall have a pro rata right, based on their percentage equity ownership, on a fully diluted basis, to participate in subsequent equity ownership, on a fully diluted basis and to participate in subsequent equity financings of the Corporation, all subject to customary exclusions. Such rights will terminate upon the closing of the Qualifying IPO.
7. Board of Directors. The holders of the Series A Preferred Stock and the Series B Preferred Stock shall be entitled to elect one member of the Corporation’s Board of Directors.
FIFTH: The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the Corporation upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the Corporation served upon him is:
c/o Baker Global Asset Management Inc.
750 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 210,
Hauppauge, NY 11788
SIXTH: To the fullest extent permitted by Article 7 of the Business Corporation Law, as the same exists or may hereafter be amended, the Corporation is hereby authorized to indemnify any and all persons whom it shall have power to indemnify under said Article from and against any and all of the expenses, liabilities, or other matters referred to in or covered by said Article, and the indemnification provided for herein shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which any person may be entitled under any By-Law, resolution of shareholders, resolution of directors, agreement or otherwise, as permitted by said Article, as to action in any capacity in which he served at the request of the Corporation.
SEVENTH: To the fullest extent permitted by the Business Corporation Law, as the same exists or may hereafter be amended, a Director of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its shareholders for any damages for any breach of duty in such capacity.
EIGHTH: Holders of shares of any class of capital stock of the Corporation shall have no preemptive rights to subscribe for stock of the Corporation of any class.
NINTH: Any action which is required or permitted by law to be taken by vote of shareholders may be taken without a meeting on written consent, setting forth the action so taken, signed by the holders of outstanding shares having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted.
***
5. | The amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation was authorized by a vote of the Board of Directors of the Corporation followed by the unanimous written consent of the holders of all outstanding shares of the capital stock of the Corporation. |
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Restated Certificate of Incorporation has been executed by a duly authorized officer of the Corporation on this 9th day of June, 2022.
By: | /s/ William Baker | |
William Baker | ||
President |
Exhibit 2.2
BY-LAWS
OF
BAKER CLOGAL ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
ARTICLE I
OFFICES
1.1. Principal Office - The principal office of the Corporation shall be as set forth in its Certificate of Incorporation.
1.2. Additional Offices - The Corporation may have such additional offices at such other place within or without the State of New York as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or as the business of the Corporation may require.
ARTICLE II
SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING
2.1. Annual Meeting - An annual meeting of shareholders shall be held within five (5) months after the close of the fiscal year of the Corporation on such date and at the time and place (either within or without the State of New York) as shall be fixed by the Board of Directors. At the annual meeting the shareholders shall elect Directors and transact such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting.
2.2. Special Meeting - A special meeting of shareholders may be called at any time by the President and shall be called by the President at the request in writing of a majority of the Board of Directors then in office or at the request in writing filed with the Secretary by the holders of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of the capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at such meeting. Any such request shall state the purpose or purposes of the proposed meeting. Business transacted at any special meeting of shareholders shall be confined to the purposes set forth in the notice thereof.
2.3. Notice of Meetings - Notice of the time, place and purpose of every meeting of shareholders (and, if other than an annual meeting, the person or persons at whose discretion the meeting is being called), shall be given by the President, a Vice-President or by the Secretary to each shareholder of record entitled to vote at such meeting, not less than ten nor more than sixty days prior to the date set for the meeting. Notice of any meeting of shareholders may be written or electronic. If mailed, such notice is given when deposited in the United States mail, with first class postage prepaid, or delivered to a recognized international carrier service such as Federal Express, directed to the shareholder at his address appearing on the stock book of the Corporation or at such other address supplied by him in writing to the Secretary of the Corporation for the purpose of receiving notice. If transmitted electronically, such notice is given when directed to the shareholder’s electronic mail address as supplied by the shareholder to the Secretary of the Corporation or as otherwise directed pursuant to the shareholder’s authorization or instructions.
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A waiver of notice setting forth the purposes of the meeting for which notice is waived, whether before or after the time of the meeting stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to the giving of such notice, signed by the person or persons entitled to such notice. Waiver of notice may be written or electronic. If written the notice must be signed by the shareholder or the shareholder’s authorized Officer, Director, employee or agent by signing such waiver or causing his or her signature to be affixed to such waiver by any reasonable means, including, but not limited to, facsimile signature. If electronic, the transmission of the waiver must either set forth or be submitted with information from which it can reasonably be determined that the transmission was authorized by the shareholder. The attendance by a shareholder at a meeting either in person or by proxy without protesting the lack of notice thereof shall constitute a waiver of notice of such shareholder.
All notice given with respect to an original meeting shall extend to any and all adjournments thereof and such business as might have been transacted at the original meeting may be transacted at any adjournment thereof; no notice of any adjourned meeting need be given if an announcement of the time and place of the adjourned meeting is made at the original meeting.
2.4. Quorum - The holders of a majority of the votes of shares of stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall be requisite and shall constitute a quorum at all meetings of shareholders except as otherwise provided by statute or the Certificate of Incorporation. If, however, a quorum shall not be present or represented at any meeting of shareholders, the shareholders entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall have power to adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present or represented. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum shall be present or represented, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally notified. When a quorum is once present to organize a meeting, such quorum is not deemed broken by the subsequent withdrawal of any shareholders.
2.5. Voting - Every shareholder entitled to vote at any meeting shall be entitled to one vote for each share of stock entitled to vote and held by him of record on the date fixed as the record date for said meeting and may so vote in person or by proxy. Any corporate action, other than the election of Directors, shall be authorized by a majority of the votes cast in favor of or against such action by the holders of shares entitled to vote thereon except as may otherwise
be provided by statute or the Certificate of Incorporation. An abstention shall not count as a vote cast.
2.6. Proxies - Every proxy shall be valid only if filed with the Secretary of the Corporation or with the Secretary of the meeting prior to the commencement of voting on the matter in regard to which said proxy is to be voted. No proxy shall be valid after the expiration of eleven months from the date of its execution unless otherwise expressly provided in the proxy. Every proxy shall be revocable at the pleasure of the person executing it except as otherwise provided by Section 609 of the Business Corporation Law. Unless the proxy by its terms provides for a specific revocation date and except as otherwise provided by statute, revocation of a proxy shall not be effective unless and until such revocation is executed in writing by the shareholder who executed such proxy and the revocation is filed with the Secretary of the Corporation or with the Secretary of the Meeting prior to the voting of the proxy.
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A shareholder may execute a writing authorizing another person or persons to act for him as proxy. Execution may be accomplished by the shareholder or its authorized Officer, Director, employee or agent signing such writing or causing his or her signature to be affixed to such writing by any reasonable means including, but not limited to, by facsimile signature. A shareholder may authorize another person or persons to act for the shareholder as proxy by electronic transmission to the person who will be the holder of the proxy or to an agent duly authorized by the proxyholder to receive such transmission. Any such electronic transmission must set forth or be submitted with sufficient information from which it can be reasonably determined that the electronic transmission was authorized by the shareholder. The information relied upon by the inspectors or other persons making the determination shall be specified.
Any copy, facsimile or other reliable reproduction of the writing or transmission created pursuant to this section may be substituted 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 or other reproduction shall be a complete reproduction of the original document.
2.7. Shareholders’ List - A list of shareholders as of the record date, certified by the Secretary of the Corporation or by a transfer agent appointed by the Board of Directors shall be prepared for every meeting of shareholders and shall be produced by the Secretary or some other Officer of the Corporation thereat.
2.8. Inspectors at Meetings - In advance of any shareholders’ meeting, the Board of Directors may appoint one or more inspectors to act at the meeting or at any adjournment thereof and if not so appointed or if the persons so appointed are unable to act, the person presiding at any such meeting may appoint one or more inspectors. Each inspector, before entering upon the discharge of his duties as set forth in Section 611 of the Business Corporation Law, shall take and sign an oath faithfully to execute the duties of inspector at such meeting with strict impartiality and according to the best of his ability.
2.9. Conduct of Meeting - All meetings of shareholders shall be presided over by the President, or if he is not present, by a Vice-President, or if neither the President nor any Vice President is present, by a chairman thereby chosen by the shareholders at the meeting. The Secretary of the Corporation, or in his absence, an Assistant Secretary, shall act as secretary of every meeting but if neither the Secretary nor the Assistant Secretary is present, the chairman of the meeting shall appoint any person present to act as secretary of the meeting.
2.10. Action Without Meeting - Any action required or permitted to be taken by the Shareholders thereof may be taken without a meeting if all Shareholders entitled to vote thereon consent in writing to the adoption of a resolution authorizing the action except as otherwise permitted by the Certificate of Incorporation.
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No written consent shall be effective to take the corporate action referred to therein unless, within sixty days of the earliest dated consent delivered in the manner required by this paragraph to the Corporation, written consents signed by a sufficient number of holders to take action are delivered to the Corporation by delivery to, its registered office in this state, its principal lace of business, or an Officer or agent of the Corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of shareholders are recorded. Delivery made to the Corporation’s registered office shall be by hand or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested.
Any one or more members of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof may participate in a meeting of said Board or of any such committee by means of a conference telephone or similar communications equipment allowing all persons participating in the meeting to hear each other at the same time, and participation by such means shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.
ARTICLE III
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
3.1. Function and Definition - The business and property of the Corporation shall be managed by its Board of Directors who may exercise all the powers of the Corporation and do all such lawful acts and things as are not by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation or by these By-Laws directed or required to be exercised or done by the shareholders.
3.2. Number and Qualification - The number of Directors constituting the entire Board shall not be less than one nor more than (5), as may be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors or by the shareholders entitled to vote for the election of Directors, provided that any such action of the Board shall require the vote of a majority of the entire Board. The phrase “Entire Board” as used herein means the total number of Directors which the Corporation would have if there were no vacancies. Unless and until a different number shall be so fixed within the limits above specified, the Board shall consist of four (4) Directors. The term of any incumbent Director shall not be shortened by any such action by the Board of Directors or by the shareholders.
Each Director shall be at least eighteen years of age. A Director need not be a shareholder, a citizen of the United States or a resident of the State of New York.
3.3. Election Term and Vacancies - Except as otherwise provided in this Section, all Directors shall be elected at the annual meeting of shareholders and all Directors who are so elected or who are elected in the interim to fill vacancies and newly created directorships, shall hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders and until their respective successors have been elected and qualified.
The members of the Board of Directors shall be elected by a majority of the votes cast at a meeting of shareholders, by the holders of shares entitled to vote, except as otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation.
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In the interim between annual meetings of shareholders, newly created directorships resulting from an increase in the number of Directors or from vacancies occurring in the Board, but not, except as hereinafter provided, in the case of a vacancy occurring by reason of removal of a Director by the shareholders, may be filled by the vote of a majority of the Directors, then remaining in office, although less than a quorum may exist.
In the case of a vacancy occurring in the Board of Directors by reason of the removal of one or more Directors by action of the shareholders, such vacancy may be filled by the shareholders at a special meeting duly called for such purpose.
In the event a vacancy is not filled by such election by shareholders, whether or not the vacancy resulted from the removal of a Director with or without cause, a majority of the Directors then remaining in office, although less than a quorum, may fill any such vacancy.
3.4. Removal - The Board of Directors may, at any time, with cause, remove any Director.
The shareholders entitled to vote for the election of Directors may, at any time, remove any or all of the Directors with or without cause.
3.5. Meetings - The annual meeting of the Board of Directors for the election of Officers and the transaction of such other business as may come before the meeting, shall be held, without notice, immediately following the annual meeting of shareholders, at the same place at which such shareholders’ meeting is held.
Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at such time and place, within or outside the State of New York as shall be fixed by resolution of the Board, and when so fixed no further notice thereof need be given. Regular meetings not fixed by resolution of the Board may be held on notice at such time and place as shall be determined by the Board.
Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called on notice at any time by the President, and shall be called by the President at the written request of a majority of the Directors then in office.
3.6. Notice of Meetings - In the case of all special meetings and of regular meetings not fixed by resolution of the Board, written notice of the time and place of each such meeting shall be mailed to each Director, addressed to his residence or usual place of business, not less than five days before the date on which such meeting is to be held, or shall be sent to such address by telegram, or be given personally, or by telephone, not less than one day before the date on which such meeting is to be held. The notice of the meeting need not specify the purpose of the meeting.
Any meeting of the Board of Directors for which notice is required by these By-Laws or by statute need not be given to any Director who submits a signed Waiver of Notice whether before or after the meeting, or who attends the meeting without protesting prior thereto or at its commencement the lack of notice to him. All signed Waivers of Notice shall be filed with the minutes of the meeting.
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3.7. Conduct of Meetings - The President, if present, shall preside at all meetings of Directors. At all meetings at which the President is not present any other Director chosen by the Board shall preside.
3.8. Quorum. Adjournment, Voting - Except as otherwise provided by the Certificate of Incorporation, a majority of the entire Board shall be requisite and shall constitute a quorum at all meetings of the Board of Directors for the transaction of business. Where a vacancy or vacancies prevents such majority, a majority of the Directors then in office shall constitute a quorum.
A majority of the Directors present at any meeting, whether or not a quorum is present, may adjourn the meeting to another time and place without further notice other than an announcement at the meeting.
Except as otherwise provided by the Certificate of Incorporation, when a quorum is present at any meeting, a majority of the Directors shall decide any questions brought before such meeting and the act of such majority shall be the act of the Board.
3.9. Action Without Meeting - Any action required or permitted to be taken by the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof consent in writing to the adoption of a resolution authorizing the action.
Any one or more members of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof may participate in a meeting of said Board or of any such committee by means of a conference telephone or similar communications equipment allowing all persons participating in the meeting to hear each other at the same time, and participation by such means shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.
3.10. Compensation of Directors - Directors, as such, shall not receive any stated salary for their services, but, by resolution of the Board, a fixed sum and expenses of attendance, if any, may be allowed for attendance at any meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof. Nothing herein contained shall be construed to preclude any Director from serving the Corporation in any other capacity and receiving reasonable compensation therefor.
3.11. Committees - The Board of Directors, by resolution of a majority of the entire Board, may designate from among its members one or more committees, each consisting of one or more Directors, and each of which, to the extent provided in such resolution, shall have all the authority of the Board except that no such committee shall have authority as to any of the following matters:
(a) | The submission to shareholders of any action as to which shareholders’ authorization is required by statute, the Certificate of Incorporation or by these By-Laws; |
(b) | The filling of vacancies in the Board of Directors or in any committee thereof; |
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(c) | The fixing of compensation of the Directors for serving on the Board or on any committee thereof; |
(d) | The amendment or repeal of these By-Laws or the adoption of new By-Laws; and |
(e) | The amendment or repeal of any resolution of the Board of Directors which by its terms shall not be so amendable or repealable. |
The Board may designate one or more Directors as alternate members of any such committee who may replace any absent member or members at any meeting of such committee.
Each such committee shall serve at the pleasure of the Board. The Board of Directors shall have the power at any time to fill vacancies in, to change the membership of, or to discharge any such committee. Committees shall keep minutes of their proceedings and shall report the same to the Board of Directors at the meeting of the Board next succeeding, and any action by the committee shall be subject to revision and alteration by the Board of Directors, provided that no rights of a third party shall be affected in any such revision or alteration.
ARTICLE IV
OFFICERS
4.1. Officers - The elected officers of the corporation shall be: (i) a President, (ii) a Treasurer, and (iii) a Secretary, and such other officers as the Board of Directors shall deem advisable. Any two or more offices may be held by the same person. In the event all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation are owned by one person, such person may hold all or any combination of offices.
4.2. Election - Officers need not be elected from among the Board of Directors and shall hold office hold office for the term for which elected unless removed prior to such date or, if not removed, until their successors are appointed and qualified The Board of Directors may from time to time appoint all such other Officers as it may determine and such Officers shall hold office from the time of their appointment and qualifications until the time they are removed or their successors are appointed and qualified. A vacancy in any office arising from any cause may be filled for the unexpired portion of the term by the Board of Directors.
4.3. Removal - Any Officer may be removed from office by the Board at any time with or without cause.
4.4. Delegation of Powers - The Board of Directors may from time to time delegate the power or duties of any Officer of the Corporation, in the event of his absence or failure to act otherwise, to any other Officer or Director or person whom they may select.
4.5. Compensation - The compensation of each Officer shall be such as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine.
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4.6. President - The President, subject to the direction and control of the Board of Directors, shall be responsible for all duties incident to the offices and have such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to time, and have general charge of the business and affairs of the Corporation as may my limited by the terms of his employment contract and subject to the right of the Board of Directors to confer specified powers on Officers.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Board of Directors, the President and/or Chief Executive Officer, or in the event of their inability to act, a Vice-President designated by the Board, shall have full power and authority on behalf of the Corporation to attend and to act and to vote at any meeting of security holders of Corporations in which the Corporation may hold securities, and at such meetings shall possess and may exercise any and all rights and powers incident to the ownership of such securities, and which, as the owner thereof, the Corporation might have possessed and exercised, if present. The Board of Directors by resolution from time to time may confer like powers upon any other person or persons.
4.7. Vice-President - Any Vice-President designated by the Board shall have such powers and perform such duties as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe. In the absence or inability of the President or Chief Executive Officer to perform his duties or exercise his powers, the Vice President or, if there be more than one, a Vice-President designated by the Board, shall exercise the powers and perform the duties of the President or Chief Executive Officer subject to the direction of the Board of Directors.
4.8. Secretary - The Secretary shall keep the minutes of all meetings and record all votes of shareholders, the Board of Directors and committees in a book to be kept for that purpose. He shall give or cause to be given any required notice of meetings of shareholders, the Board of Directors or any committee, and shall be responsible for preparing or obtaining from a transfer agent appointed by the Board, the list of shareholders required by Article II, Section 7 thereof. He shall be the custodian of the seal of the Corporation and shall affix or cause to be affixed the seal to any instrument requiring it and attest the same and exercise the powers and perform the duties incident to the office of Secretary subject to the direction of the Board of Directors.
4.9. Treasurer - Subject to the direction of the Board of Directors, the Treasurer shall have charge of the general supervision of the funds and securities of the Corporation and the books of account of the Corporation and shall exercise the powers and perform the duties incident to the office of the Treasurer. If required by the Board of Directors, he shall give the Corporation a bond in such sum and with such sureties as may be satisfactory to the Board of Directors for the faithful discharge of his duties.
4.10. Other Officers - All other Officers, if any, shall have such authority and shall perform such duties as may be specified from time to time by the Board of Directors.
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ARTICLE V
RESIGNATIONS
Any Director or Officer of the Corporation or any member of any committee of the Board of Directors of the Corporation, may resign at any time by giving written notice to the Board of Directors, the President or the Secretary. Any such resignation shall take effect at the time specified therein or, if the time is not specified therein, upon the receipt thereof, irrespective of whether any such resignations shall have been accepted.
ARTICLE VI
CERTIFICATES REPRESENTING SHARES
6.1. Form of Certificates - Each shareholder shall be entitled to a certificate or certificates in such form as prescribed by the Business Corporation Law and by any other applicable statutes, which Certificate shall represent and certify the number, kind and class of shares owned by him in the Corporation. The Certificates shall be numbered and registered in the order in which they are issued and upon issuance the name in which each Certificate has been issued together with the number of shares represented thereby and the date of issuance shall be entered in the stock book of the Corporation by the Secretary or by the transfer agent of the Corporation. Each certificate shall be signed by the President or a Vice-President and countersigned by the Secretary or Assistant Secretary and shall be sealed with the Corporate Seal or a facsimile thereof. The signatures of the Officers upon a certificate may also be facsimiles if the certificate is countersigned by a transfer agent or registered by a registrar other than the Corporation itself or an employee of the Corporation. In case any Officer who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased to be such Officer before the certificate is issued, such certificate may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if the Officer had not ceased to be such at the time of its issue.
6.2. Consideration - A certificate representing shares shall not be issued until the amount of consideration therefor determined to be stated capital pursuant to Section 506 of the Business Corporation Law has been paid in the form of cash, services rendered, personal or real property or a combination thereof and consideration for the balance (if any) complying with paragraph (a) of Section 504 of the Business Corporation Law has been provided, except as provided in paragraphs (e) and (f) of Section 505 of the Business Corporation Law. Notwithstanding that such shares may be fully paid and nonassessable, the Corporation may place in escrow shares issued for a binding obligation to pay cash or other property or to perform future services, or make other arrangements to restrict the transfer of the shares, and may credit distributions in respect of the shares against the obligation, until the obligation is performed.
6.3. Lost Certificates - The Board of Directors may direct a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the Corporation, alleged to have been lost, mutilated, stolen or destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person so claiming and upon delivery to the Corporation, if the Board of Directors shall so require, of a bond in such form and with such surety or sureties as the Board may direct, sufficient in amount to indemnify the Corporation and its transfer agent against any claim which may be made against it or them on account of the alleged loss, destruction, theft or mutilation of any such certificate or the issuance of any such new certificate.
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6.4. Fractional Share Interests - The Corporation may issue certificates for fractions of a share; or it may pay in cash the fair market value of fractions of a share as of the time when those entitled to receive such fractions are determined; or it may issue script in registered or bearer form over the manual or facsimile signature of an Officer of the Corporation or of its agent, exchangeable as therein provided for full shares, but such script shall not entitle the holder to any rights of a shareholder except as therein provided.
6.5. Share Transfers - Upon compliance with provisions restricting the transferability of shares, if any, transfers of shares of the Corporation shall be made only on the share record of the Corporation by the registered holder thereof, or by his duly authorized attorney, upon the surrender of the certificate or certificates for such shares properly endorsed with payment of all taxes thereon.
6.6. Record Date for Shareholders - For the purpose of determining the shareholders entitled to notice of, or to vote at any meeting of shareholders or any adjournment thereof or to express consent or dissent from any proposal without a meeting, or for the purpose of determining the shareholders entitled to receive payment or any dividend or the allotment of any rights, or for the purpose of any other action, the Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a date as the record date for any such determination of shareholders. Such date shall not be more than sixty nor less than ten days before the date of any meeting nor more than sixty days prior to any action taken without a meeting, the payment of any dividend or the allotment of any rights, or any other action. When a determination of shareholders of record entitled to notice of, or to vote at any meeting of shareholders has been made as provided in this Section, such determination shall apply to any adjournment thereof, unless the Board fixes a new record date under this Section for the adjourned date.
6.7. Shareholders of Record - The Corporation shall be entitled to treat the holder of record of any share or shares of stock as the holder in fact thereof and, accordingly, shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share on the part of any other person whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of the State of New York.
ARTICLE VII
STATUTORY NOTICES
The Board of Directors may appoint the Treasurer or any other Officer of the Corporation to cause to be prepared and furnished to shareholders entitled thereto any special financial notice and/or statement which may be required by Section 510, 511, 515, 516, 519 and 520 of the Business Corporation Law or by any other applicable statute.
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ARTICLE VIII
FISCAL YEAR
The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be fixed by the Board of Directors by resolution duly adopted, and, from time to time, by resolution duly adopted the Board of Directors may alter such fiscal year.
ARTICLE IX
CORPORATE SEAL
The Corporate seal shall have inscribed thereon the name of the Corporation, the year of its incorporation and the words “Corporate Seal” and “New York” and shall be in such form and contain such other words and/or figures as the Board of Directors shall determine. The Corporate seal may be used by printing, engraving, lithographing, stamping or otherwise making, placing or affixing, or causing to be printed, engraved, lithographed, stamped or otherwise made, placed or affixed, upon any paper or document, by any process whatsoever, an impression, facsimile or other reproduction of said Corporate seal.
ARTICLE X
BOOKS AND RECORDS
There shall be maintained at the principal office of the Corporation books of account of all the Corporation’s business and transactions.
There shall be maintained at the principal office of the Corporation or at the office of the Corporation’s transfer agent a record containing the names and addresses of all shareholders, the number and class of shares held by such and the dates when they respectively became the owners of record thereof.
ARTICLE XI
INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS, OFFICERS
EMPLOYEES AND AGENTS
Any person made or threatened to be made a party to an action or proceeding, whether civil or criminal, by reason of the fact that he, his testator or intestate, then, is, or was a Director or Officer of the Corporation, or then serves or has served on behalf of the Corporation in such capacity at the request of the Corporation, shall be indemnified by the Corporation against reasonable expenses, judgments, fines and amounts actually and necessarily incurred in connection with the defense of such action or proceeding or in connection with an appeal therein, to the fullest extent permissible by the laws of the State of New York. Such right of indemnification shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which such person may be entitled.
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ARTICLE XII
AMENDMENTS
Subject to Section 613 of the Business Corporation Law, the shares entitled at the time to vote in the election of Directors and the Board of Directors by vote of a majority of the entire Board, shall have the power to amend or repeal these By-Laws, and to adopt new By-Laws, provided, however, that any by-law adopted, amended or repealed by the Board of Directors may be amended or repealed by a majority of the votes of the shares at the time entitled to vote thereon as herein provided. No amendment of the By-Laws pertaining to the election of Directors or the procedures for the calling and conduct of a meeting of shareholders shall affect the election of directors or the procedures for the calling or conduct in respect of any meeting of shareholders unless notice thereof is given to the shareholders as provided in Section 3 of Article H hereof.
Dated: June 30, 2010
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Exhibit 4
SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT
Common Stock
of
Baker Global Asset Management Inc.
This Subscription Agreement (this “Subscription Agreement”) relates to my agreement to purchase shares of Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Shares”), of Baker Global Asset Management Inc., a New York corporation (the “Company”), for a purchase price of $5.00 per Share, for a total purchase price as indicated on the signature page to this Agreement (“Subscription Price”), subject to the terms, conditions, acknowledgments, representations and warranties stated herein and in the Offering Circular for the sale of the Shares, dated April 20, 2023, as supplemented (the “Offering Circular”). Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given to them in the Offering Circular.
If I am investing through a brokerage account (the “Account”) at Alexander Capital, L.P., a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member (the “Broker”) that clears through [Name of Clearing firm], or through a soliciting dealer appointed by the Broker (the Broker’s clearing firm, or such soliciting dealer’s clearing firm, as applicable, the “Clearing Firm”). I am authorizing the Broker and the Clearing Firm to debit funds equal to the amount of the Subscription Price from my Account. I understand that if I wish to purchase Shares, I must sign this Subscription Agreement and have sufficient funds in my Account at the time of the execution of this Subscription Agreement. The funds for my Account held can be provided by check, wire, Automated Clearing House, or ACH, push, ACH pull, direct deposit, Automated Customer Account Transfer Service, or ACATS, or non-ACATS transfer. If the offering is terminated, then the Shares will not be sold to investors pursuant to this offering, and if any portion of the Shares are not sold in the offering, funds for such unsold Shares will not be debited from my Account.
In order to induce the Company to accept this Subscription Agreement for the Shares and as further consideration for such acceptance, I hereby make, adopt, confirm and agree to all of the following covenants, acknowledgments, representations and warranties with the full knowledge that the Company and its affiliates will expressly rely thereon in making a decision to accept or reject this Subscription Agreement:
1. Investor Eligibility Certifications. I understand that to purchase the Shares, I must either be an “accredited investor” as such term is defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or I must limit my investment in the Shares to a maximum of (i) 10% of my net worth or annual income, whichever is greater, if I am a natural person, or (ii) 10% of my revenues or net assets, whichever is greater, for my most recently completed fiscal year, if I am a non-natural person. I understand that if I am a natural person, I should determine my net worth for purposes of these representations by calculating the difference between my total assets and total liabilities. I understand this calculation must exclude the value of my primary residence and may exclude any indebtedness secured by my primary residence (up to an amount equal to the value of my primary residence). In the case of fiduciary accounts, net worth and/or income suitability requirements may be satisfied by the beneficiary of the account or by the fiduciary, if the fiduciary directly or indirectly provides funds for the purchase of the Shares. I hereby represent and warrant that I meet one of the following qualifications to purchase Shares:
a. | The aggregate purchase price for the Shares I am purchasing in the offering does not exceed 10% of my net worth or annual income, whichever is greater. |
b. | I am an accredited investor. |
2. I understand that the Company reserves the right to, in its sole discretion, accept or reject this subscription, in whole or in part, for any reason whatsoever, and to the extent not accepted, unused funds will remain in my account if I am investing through an Apex Cleared Account or to me if I am not investing through an Apex Cleared Account.
3. I have received the Offering Circular.
4. I am purchasing the Shares for my own account.
5. I hereby represent and warrant that I am not on, and am not acting as an agent, representative, intermediary or nominee for any person identified on, the list of blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, U.S. Department of Treasury. In addition, I have complied with all applicable U.S. laws, regulations, directives, and executive orders relating to anti-money laundering, including but not limited to the following laws: (1) the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001, Public Law 107-56; and (2) Executive Order 13224 (Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions with Persons Who Commit, Threaten to Commit, or Support Terrorism) of September 23, 2001. By making the previous representations, you have not waived any right of action you may have under federal or state securities law. Any such waiver would be unenforceable. The Company will assert your representations as a defense in any subsequent litigation where such an assertion would be relevant. This Subscription Agreement and all rights hereunder shall be governed by, and interpreted in accordance with, the laws of the State of Nevada without giving effect to the principles of conflict of laws.
SIGNATURE PAGE TO SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT
The undersigned hereby signs this Subscription Agreement as of ____________________, 20__.
Print Name Above | ||
Sign Above | ||
IF subscriber is an entity, specify name and title below: | ||
Name: | ||
Title: |
Subscription Price (this is the total amount of your investment) $ _____________________________________________
Exhibit 6.1
Agreement of Lease, made as of this day of, JULY 2013 between
FAIRFIELD OFFICE PARK AT HAUPPAVGE LLC with offices at 538 BROADHOLLOW ROAD, THIRD FLOOR EAST, MELVILLE NY 11747
party of the first part, hereinafter referred to as LANDLORD, and BENJAMIN SECURITIES INC.
party of the second part, hereinafter referred to as TENANT,
Witnesseth: Landlord hereby leases to Tenant and Tenant hereby hires from Landlord office space on the 2 ND of the building known as 750 VETERANS MEMORIAL HIGHWAY HAUPPAUGE NY 11788 and described as follows: SUITE 210
(or until such term shall sooner cease and expire as hereinafter provided) to commence on the
1ST day of SEPTEMBER two thousand and THIRTEEN, and to end on the
31ST day of DECEMBER two thousand and EIGHTEEN
both dates inclusive, at an annual rate of ($28,644) TWENTY EIGHT THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED AND FORTY FOUR DOLLARS. ON EACH ANNINVERSARY DATE OF THE LEASE, THE ANNUAL RENT SHALL INCREASE BY 3.5% OVER PRIOR YEARS ANNUAL BASE RENT.
which Tenant agrees to pay in lawful money of the United States which shall be legal tender in payment of debts and dues, public and private, at the time of payment, in equal monthly installments in advance on the first day of each month during said term, at the office of Landlord or such other place as Landlord my designate, without any set off or deduction whatsoever, except that Tenant shall pay the first monthly installment(s) on the execution hereof (unless this lease be a renewal).
In the event that, at the commencement of the term of this lease, or thereafter, Tenant shall be in default in the payment of rent to Landlord pursuant to the terms of another lease with Landlord or with Landlord’s predecessor in interest, Landlord may at Landlord’s option and without notice to Tenant add the amount of such arrearages to any monthly installment of rent payable hereunder and the same shall be payable to Landlord as additional rent.
The parties hereto, for themselves, their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors and assigns, hereby convenant as follows:
1. | Tenant shall pay the rent as above and as hereinafter provided. |
2. | Tenant shall use and occupy demised premises for GENERAL BUSINESS OFFICES |
3. | The parties agree that 1.2.% shall be used in computing the Tenant’s pro-rata share of additional rent due in accordance with this lease. |
4. Tenant shall make no changes in or to the demised premises of any nature without Landlord’s prior written consent. Subject to the prior written consent of Landlord, and to the provisions of this article, Tenant at Tenant’s expense, may make alterations, installations, additions or improvements which are non-structural and which do not affect utility services or plumbing and electrical lines, in or to the interior of the demised premises by using contractors or mechanics first approved by Landlord. All fixtures and all paneling, partitions, railings and like installations installed in the premises at any time, either by Tenant or by Landlord in Tenant’s behalf: shall become the property of Landlord and shall remain upon and be surrendered with the demised premises unless Landlord, by notice to Tenant no later than twenty days prior to the date fixed as the termination of this lease, elects to have them removed by Tenant, in which event, the same shall be removed from the premises by the Tenant forthwith, at Tenant’s expense. Nothing in this article shall be construed to prevent Tenant’s removal of trade fixtures, but upon removal of any such trade fixtures from the premises or upon removal of other installations as may be required by Landlord, Tenant shall immediately and at its expense, repair and restore the premises to the condition existing prior to installation and repair any damage to the demised premises or the building due to such removal. All property permitted or required to be removed by Tenant at the end of the term remaining in the premises after Tenant’s removal shall be deemed abandoned and may, at the election of the Landlord, either be retained as Landlord’s property or may be removed from the premises by Landlord at Tenant’s expense. Tenant shall, before making any alterations, additions, installations or improvements, at its expense, obtain all permits, approvals and certificates required by any governmental or quasi-governmental bodies and (upon completion) certificates of final approval thereof and shall deliver promptly duplicates of all such permits, approvals, and certificates to Landlord and Tenant agrees to carry and will cause Tenant’s contractors and sub-contractors to carry such workman’s compensation, general liability, personal and property damage insurance as Landlord may require. Tenant agrees to obtain and deliver to Landlord, written and unconditional waivers of mechanic’s liens upon the real property in which the demised premises are located, for all work, labor and services to be performed and material to be furnished in connection with such work, signed by all contractors, sub-contractors, materialmen and laborers to become involved in such work. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any mechanic’s lien is filed against the demised premises, or the building of which the same forms a part, for work claimed to have been done for or materials furnished to, Tenant, whether or not done pursuant to this article the same shall be discharged by Tenant within ten days thereafter, at Tenant’s expense, by filing the bond required by law.
5. Landlord shall maintain and repair the public portions of the building, both exterior and interior. Tenant shall, throughout the term of this lease, take good care of the demised premises and the fixtures and appurtenances therein and at its sole cost and expense, make all non-structural repairs thereto as and when needed to preserve them in good working order and condition, reasonable wear and tear, obsolescence and damage from the elements, fire or other casualty, excepted. Notwithstanding the foregoing, all damages or injury to the demised premises or to any other part of the building, or to its fixtures, equipment and appurtenances, whether requiring structural or non-structural repairs, caused by or resulting from carelessness, omission, neglect or improper conduct of Tenant, its servants, employees, invitees or licensees, shall be repaired promptly by Tenant at its sole cost and expense, to the satisfaction Landlord reasonably exercised. Tenant shall also repair all damage to the building and the demised premises caused by the moving of Tenant’s fixtures, furniture or equipment. All the aforesaid repairs shall be of quality or class equal to the original work or construction. If Tenant fails after 10 day’s notice to proceed with due diligence to make repairs required to be made by Tenant, the same may be made by the Landlord at the expense of Tenant and the expenses thereof incurred by Landlord shall be collectible as additional rent after rendition of a bill or statement therefore. Tenant shall give Landlord prompt notice of any defective condition in any plumbing, heating system or electrical lines located in, servicing or passing through the demised premises and following such notice, Landlord shall remedy the condition with due diligence but at the expense of Tenant if repairs are necessitated by damage or injury attributable to Tenant, Tenant servants, agents, employees, invitees or licensees as aforesaid. Except as specifically provided in Article 9 or elsewhere in this lease, there shall be no allowance to Tenant for a diminution of rental value and no liability on the part of Landlord by reason of inconvenience, annoyance or injury to business arising from Landlord, Tenant or others making or failing to make any repairs, alterations, additions or improvements in or to any portion of the building or the demised premises or in and to the fixtures, appurtenances or equipment thereof. The provisions of this Article 5 with respect to the making of repairs shall not apply in the case of fire or other casualty which are dealt with at Article 10 hereof.
6. Tenant will not clean, nor require, permit, suffer or allow any window in the demised premises to be cleaned, from the outside in violation of Section 202 of the Labor Law or any other applicable law or of the rules of the Board of Standards and Appeals, or of any other board or body having or asserting jurisdiction.
7. Prior to the commencement of the lease term, if Tenant is then in possession, and at all times thereafter, Tenant, at Tenant’s sole cost and expense, shall promptly comply with all present and future laws, orders and regulations of all state, federal, municipal and local governments, departments, commissions and boards and any direction of any public officer pursuant to law, and all orders, rules and regulations of the New York Board of Fire Underwriters or any similar body which shall impose any violation, order or duty upon Landlord or Tenant with respect to the demised premises or the building arising out of the Tenant’s use or manner of use or occupancy thereof. Nothing herein shall require Tenant to make structural repairs or alterations unless Tenant has by its manner of use of the demised premises or method of operation therein, violated any such laws, ordinances, orders, rules, regulations or requirements with respect thereto. Tenant may, after securing Landlord to Landlord’s satisfaction against all damages, interest, penalties and expenses, including, but not limited to, reasonable attorney’s fees, by cash deposit or by surety bond in an amount and in a company satisfactory to Landlord, contest and appeal any such laws, ordinances, orders, rules, regulations or requirements provided same is done with all reasonable promptness and provided such appeal shall not subject Landlord to prosecution for a criminal offense or constitute a default under any lease or mortgage under which Landlord may be obligated, or cause the demised premises or any part thereof to be condemned or vacated. Tenant shall not do or permit any act or thing to be done in or to the demised premises which is contrary to law, or which will invalidate or be in conflict with public liability, fire or other policies of insurance at any time carried by or for the benefit of Landlord with respect to the demised premises or the building of which the demised premises form a part, or which shall or might subject Landlord to any liability or responsibility to any person or for property damage, nor shall Tenant keep anything in the demised premises except as now or hereafter permitted by the Fire Department, Board of Fire Underwriters, Fire Insurance Rating Organization or other authority having jurisdiction, and then only in such manner and such quantity so as not to increase the rate for fire insurance applicable to the building, nor use the premises in a wrongful manner which will increase the insurance rate for the building or any property located therein over that in effect prior to the commencement of Tenant’s occupancy. Tenant shall pay all costs, expenses, fines, penalties or damages, which may be imposed upon Landlord by reason of Tenant’s failure to comply with the provisions of this article and if by reason of such failure the fire insurance rate shall, at the beginning of this lease or at any time thereafter, be higher than it otherwise would be, then Tenant shall reimburse Landlord, as additional rent hereunder. For that portion of all fire insurance premiums thereafter paid by Landlord which shall have been charged because of such failure by Tenant, and shall make such reimbursement upon the first day of the month following such outlay by Landlord. In any action or proceeding wherein Landlord and Tenant are parties a schedule or “make-up” of rate for the building or demised premises issued by the New York Fire Insurance Exchange, or other body making fire insurance rates applicable to said premises shall be conclusive evidence of the facts therein stated and of the several items and charges in the fire insurance rate then applicable to said premises. Tenant shall not place a load upon any floor of the demised premises exceeding the floor load per square foot area which it was designed to carry and which is allowed by law. Landlord reserves the right to prescribe the weight and position of all safes, business machines and mechanical equipment. Such installations shall be placed and maintained by Tenant, at Tenant’s expense, in settings sufficient, in Landlord’s judgement, to absorb and prevent vibration, noise and annoyance.
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8. This lease is subject and subordinate to all ground or underlying leases and to all mortgages which may now or hereafter affect such leases or the real property of which demised premises are a part and to all renewals, modifications, consolidations, replacements and extensions of any such underlying leases and mortgages. This clause shall be self-operative and no further instrument of subordination shall be required by any ground or underlying lessee or by any mortgage, affecting any lease or the real property of which the demised premises are a part.
9. Landlord or its agents shall not be liable for any damage to property of Tenant or of others entrusted to employees of the building, nor for loss of or damage to any property of Tenant by theft or otherwise, nor for any injury or damage to persons or property resulting from any cause of whatsoever nature, unless caused by or due to the negligence of Landlord, its agents, servants or employees; nor shall Landlord or its agents be liable for any such damage caused by other tenants or persons in, upon or about said building or caused by operations in construction of any private, public or quasi public work. If at any time any windows of the demised premises are temporarily closed, darkened or bricked up (or permanently closed, darkened or bricked up, if required by law) for any reason whatsoever including, but not limited to Landlord’s own acts, Landlord shall not be liable for any damage Tenant may sustain thereby and Tenant shall not be entitled to any compensation therefore nor abatement or diminution of rent nor shall the same release Tenant from its obligations hereunder nor constitute an eviction. Tenant shall not move any safe, heavy machinery, heavy equipment, bulky matter, or fixtures into or out of the building without Landlord’s prior written consent. If such safe, machinery, equipment, bulky matter or fixtures requires special handling, all work in connection therewith shall comply with all codes for the municipality or county in which the premises are located, and all other laws and regulations applicable thereto and shall be done during such hours as Landlord may designate. Tenant shall indemnify and save harmless Landlord against and from all liabilities, obligations, damages, penalties, claims, costs and expenses for which Landlord shall not be reimbursed by insurance, including reasonable attorney fees, paid, suffered or incurred as a result of any breach by Tenant, Tenant’s agents, contractors, employees, invitees, or licensees, of any covenant or condition of this case, or the carelessness, negligence or improper conduct of the Tenant, Tenant’s agents, contractors, employees, invitees or licensees. Tenant’s liability under this lease extends to the acts and omissions of any subtenant. and any agent, contractor, employee, invitee or licensee of any subtenant. In case any action or proceeding is brought against Landlord by reason of any such claim, Tenant, upon written notice from Landlord, will, at Tenant’s expense, resist or defend such action or proceeding by counsel approved by Landlord in writing, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld.
10. (a) If the demised premises or any part thereof shall be damaged by fire or other casualty, Tenant shall give immediate notice thereof to Landlord and this lease shall continue in full force and effect except as hereinafter set forth. (b) If the demised premises are partially damaged or rendered partially unusable by fire or other casualty, the damages thereto shall be repaired by and at the expense of Landlord and the rent, until such repair shall be substantially completed, shall be apportioned from the day following the casualty according to the part of the premises which is usable. (c) If the demised premises are totally damaged or rendered wholly unusable by fire or other casualty, then the rent shall be proportionately paid up to the time of the casualty and thenceforth shall cease until the date when the premises shall have been repaired and restored by Landlord, subject to Landlord’s right to elect not to restore the same as hereinafter provided. (d) If the demised premises are rendered wholly unusable or (whether or not the demised premises are damaged in whole or in part) if the building shall be so damaged that Landlord shall decide to demolish it or to rebuild it, then, in any of such events, Landlord may elect to terminate this lease by written notice to Tenant given within 90 days after such fire or casualty specifying a date for the expiration of the lease, which dates shall not be more than 60 days after the giving of such notice, and upon the date specified in such notice the term of this lease shall expire as fully and completely as if such date were the date set forth above for the termination of this lease and Tenant shall forthwith quit, surrender and vacate the premises without prejudice however, to Landlord’s rights and remedies against Tenant under the lease provisions in effect prior to such termination, and any rent owing shall be paid up to such date and any payments of rent made by Tenant which were on account of any period subsequent to such date shall be returned to Tenant. Unless Landlord shall serve a termination notice as provided for herein, Landlord shall make the repairs and restorations under the conditions of (b) and (c) hereof, with all reasonable expedition subject to delays due to adjustments of insurance claims, labor troubles and causes beyond Landlord’s control. (e) Nothing contained hereinabove shall relieve Tenant from liability that may exist as a result of damage from fire or other casualty, Notwithstanding the foregoing, each party shall look first to any insurance in its favor before making any claim against the other party for recovery for loss or damage resulting from fire or other casualty, and to the extent that such insurance is in force and collectible and to the extent permitted by law, Landlord and Tenant each hereby releases and waives all right of recovery against the other or any one claiming through or under each of them by way of subrogation or otherwise. The foregoing release and waiver shall be in force only if both releasors’ insurance policies contain a clause providing that such a release or waiver shall not invalidate the insurance and also, provided that such a policy can be obtained without additional premiums. Tenant acknowledges that Landlord will not carry insurance on Tenant’s furniture and/or furnishings or any fixtures or equipment, improvements, or appurtenances removable by Tenant and agrees that Landlord will not be obligated to repair any damage thereto or replace the same. If the damage or destruction be due to the fault or neglect of Tenant the debris shall be removed by, and at the expense of, Tenant. (f) Tenant hereby waives the provisions of Section 227 of the Real Property Law and agrees that the provisions of this article shall govern and control in lieu thereof.
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11. If the whole or any part of the demised premises shall be acquired or condemned by Eminent Domain for any part public or quasi public use or purpose, then and in that event, term of this lease shall cease and terminate from the date of title vesting in such proceeding and Tenant shall have no claim for the value of any unexpired term of said lease.
12. Tenant shall not assign or mortgage this lease, or sublet all or any portion of the premises without Landlord’s prior written consent, which will not be unreasonably withheld. If consented to by Landlord, it shall be in a form acceptable to Landlord. No assignment, mortgaging or subletting, if consented to by Landlord, shall relieve Tenant of its liability under this lease. Consent by Landlord shall not operate as a waiver of necessity for consent to any subsequent assignment, mortgaging or subletting and the terns of such consent shall be binding upon the assignee, mortgagee or subtenant. Any transfer of this lease by merger, consolidation or liquidation or any change in ownership of or power to vote the majority of outstanding voting stock shall constitute an assignment, whether the result of a single or series of transactions.
13. Tenant covenants and agrees that at all times its use of electric current shall not exceed the capacity of existing feeders to the building or the risers or wiring installations and Tenant may not use any electrical equipment which, in Landlord’s opinion, reasonably exercised, will overload such installations or interfere with the use thereof by other tenants of the building. The change at any time of the character of electric service shall in no wise make Landlord liable or responsible for Tenant, for any loss, damages or expenses which Tenant may sustain.
14. Landlord or Landlord’s agents shall have the right (but shall not be obligated) to enter the demised premises in any emergency at any time, and, at other reasonable times, to examine the same and to make such repairs, replacements and improvements as Landlord may deem necessary and reasonably desirable to the demised premises or to any other portion of the building or which Landlord may elect to perform following Tenant’s failure to make repairs or perform any work which Tenant is obligated to perform under this lease, or for the purpose of complying with laws, regulations and other directions of governmental authorities. Tenant shall permit Landlord to use and maintain and replace pipes and conduits in and through the demised premises and to erect new pipes and conduits therein. Landlord may, during the progress of any work in the demised premises, take all necessary materials and equipment into said premises without the same constituting an eviction nor shall the Tenant be entitled to any abatement of rent while such work is on progress nor to any damages by reason of loss or interruption of business or otherwise. Throughout the term hereof Landlord shall have the right to enter the demised premises at reasonable hours for the purpose of showing the same to prospective purchasers or mortagees of the building, and during the last six months of the term for the purpose of showing the same to prospective tenants and may, during said six months period, place upon the premises the usual notices “To Let” and “For Sale” which notices Tenant shall permit to remain thereon without molestation. If Tenant is not present to open and permit an entry into the premises, Landlord or Landlord’s agents may enter the same whenever such entry may be necessary or permissible by master key or forcibly and provided reasonable care is exercised to safeguard Tenant’s property and such entry shall not render Landlord or its agents liable therefore, nor in any event shall the obligations of Tenant hereunder be affected. If during the last month of the term Tenant shall have removed all or substantially all of Tenant’s property therefrom, Landlord may immediately enter, alter, renovate or redecorate the demised premises without limitation or abatement of rent, or incurring liability to Tenant for any compensation and such act shall have no effect on this lease or Tenant’s obligations hereunder. Landlord shall have the right at any time, without the same constituting an eviction and without incurring liability to Tenant therefore to change the arrangement and/or location of public entrances, passageways, doors, doorways, corridors, elevators, stairs, toilets, or other public parts of the building and to change the name, number or designation by which the building may be known.
15. Tenant will not at any time use or occupy the demised premises in violation of the certificate of occupancy issued for the building of which the demised premises are a part.
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16. (a) If at the date fixed as the commencement of the term of this lease or if at any time during the term hereby demised there shall be filed by or against Tenant in any court pursuant to any statue either of the United States or of any state, a petition in bankruptcy or insolvency or for reorganization or for the appointment ofa receiver or trustee of all or a portion of Tenant’s property, and within 60 days thereof: Tenant fails to secure a dismissal thereof, or if Tenant makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors or petition for or enter into an arrangement, this lease, at the option of Landlord, exercised within a reasonable time after notice of the happening of any one or more of such events, may be cancelled and terminated by written notice to the Tenant (but if any such events occur prior to the commencement date, this lease shall be ipso facto cancelled and terminated) and whether such cancellation and termination occur prior to or during the term, neither Tenant nor any person claiming through or under Tenant by virtue of any statute or of any order of any court, shall be entitled to possession or to remain in possession of the premises demised but shall forthwith quit and surrender the premises, and Landlord, in addition to the other rights and remedies Landlord has by virtue of any other provision herein or elsewhere in this lease contained or by virtue of any statute or rule of law, may retain as liquidated damages, any rent, security deposit or moneys received by him from Tenant or others in behalf of Tenant. If this lease shall be assigned in accordance with its terms, the provisions of this Article 16 shall be applicable only to the party then owning Tenant’s interest in this lease. (b) It is stipulated and agreed that in the event of termination of this lease pursuant to (a) hereof, Landlord shall forthwith, notwithstanding any other provisions of this lease to the contrary, be entitled to recover from Tenant as and for liquidated damages an amount equal to the difference between the rent reserved hereunder for the unexpired portion of the term demised and the fair and reasonable rental value of the demised premises for the same period, If such premises or any part thereof be re-let by the Landlord for the unexpired term of said lease, or any part thereof, before presentation of proof of such liquidated damages to any court, commission or tribunal, the amount of rent reserved upon such re-letting shall be deemed to be the fair and reasonable rental value for the part or the whole of the premises so re-let during the term of the re-letting. Nothing herein contained shall limit or prejudice the right of the Landlord to prove for and obtain as liquidated damages by reason of such termination, an amount equal to the maximum allowed by any statute or rule of law in effect at the time when, and governing the proceedings in which, such damages are to be proved, whether or not such amount be greater, equal to, or less than the amount of the difference referred to above.
17. (1) If Tenant defaults in fulfilling any of the covenants of this lease other than the covenants for the payment of rent or additional rent, or if the demised premises become vacant or deserted, or if the demised premises are damaged by reason of negligence or carelessness of Tenant, its agents, employees or invitees, then in any one or more such events, upon Landlord serving a written five (5) days’ notice upon Tenant specifying the nature of said default and upon the expiration of said five (5) days, if Tenant shall have failed to comply with or remedy such default, or if the said default or omission complained of shall be of a nature that the same cannot be completely cured or remedied within said five (5) day period, and if Tenant shall not have diligently commenced curing such default within such five (5) day period, and shall not therafter with reasonable diligence and in good faith proceed to remedy or cure such default, then Landlord may serve a written three (3) days’ notice of cancellation of this lease upon Tenant, and upon the expiration of said three (3) days, this lease and the term thereunder shall end and expire as fully and completely as if the expiration of such (3) day period were the day herein definitely fixed for the end and expiration of this lease and the term thereof and Tenant shall then quit and surrender the demised premises to Landlord but Tenant shall remain liable as hereinafter provided. (2) If the notice provided for in (1) hereof shall have been given, and the term shall expire as aforesaid; or (2a) if Tenant shall make default in the payment of the rent reserved herein or any item of additional rent herein mentioned or any part of either or in making any other payment herein required; or (2b) if any execution or attachment shall be issued against Tenant or any of Tenant’s property whereupon the demised premises shall be taken or occupied by someone other than Tenant; or (2c) if Tenant shall make default with respect to any other lease between Landlord and Tenant; or (2d) if Tenant shall fail to move into or take possession of the premises within fifteen (15) days after commencement of the term of this lease, of which fact Landlord shall be the sole judge; than and in any of such events Landlord may without notice, re-enter the demised premises either by force or otherwise, and dispossess Tenant by summary proceedings or otherwise, and the legal representative of Tenant or other occupant of demised premises and remove their effects and hold the premises as if this lease had not been made, and Tenant hereby waives the service of notice of intention to re-enter or to institute legal proceedings to that end. If Tenant shall make default hereunder prior to the date fixed as the commencement of any renewal or extension of this lease, Landlord may cancel and terminate such renewal or extension agreement by written notice. (3) In addition to and not in lieu of any of the remedies herein provided, in the event the Tenant shall vacate, abandon or desert the demised premises and shall be in default in the payment of any rent or additional rent, then in such event, the Landlord shall have the right to seize possession of the demised premises without notice and without legal proceedings of any nature and exercise such remedies as are provided herein and there shall be no right in the Tenant to cure any default hereunder or reclaim possession of the demised premises hereunder.
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18. In case of any such default, re-entry, expiration and/or disposses by summary proceedings or otherwise, (a) the rent shall become due thereupon and be paid up to the time of such re-entry, disposses and/or expiration, together with such expenses as Landlord may incur for legal expenses, attorney’s fees, brokerage, and/or putting the demised premises in good order, or for preparing the same for re-rental; (b) Landlord may re-let the premises or any part or parts thereof, either in the name of Landlord or otherwise, for a term or terms, which may at Landlord’s option be less than or exceed the period which would otherwise have constituted the balance of the term of this lease and any grant concessions or free rent or charge a higher rental than that in this lease, and/or (c) Tenant or the legal representatives of Tenant shall also pay Landlord as liquidated damages for the failure of Tenant to observe and perform said Tenant’s covenants herein contained, any deficiency between the rent hereby reserved and/or covenanted to be paid and the net amount, if any, of the rents collected on account of the lease or leases of the demised premises for each month of the period which would otherwise have constituted the balance of the term of this lease. The failure or refusal of Landlord to re-let the premises or any part or parts thereof shall not release or affect Tenant’s liability for damages. In computing such liquidated damages there shall be added to the said deficiency such expenses as Landlord may incur in connection with re-letting, such as legal expenses, attorneys’ fees, brokerage, advertising and for keeping the demised premises in good order or for preparing the same for re-letting. Any such liquidated damages shall be paid in monthly installments by Tenant on the rent day specified in this lease and any suit brought to collect the amount of the deficiency for any month shall not prejudice in any way the rights of Landlord to collect the deficiency for any subsequent month by a similar proceeding. Landlord, in putting the demised premises in good order or preparing the same for re-rental may, at Landlord’s option, make such alterations, repairs, replacements, and/or decorations in the demised premises as Landlord, in Landlord’s sole judgment, considers advisable and necessary for the purpose of re-letting the demised premises, and the making of such alterations, repairs, replacements, and/or decorations shall not operate or be construed to release Tenant from liability hereunder as aforesaid. Landlord shall in no event be liable in any way whatsoever for failure to re-let the demised premises, or in the event that the demised premises are re-let, for failure to collect the rent thereof under such re-letting, and in no event shall Tenant be entitled to receive any excess, if any, of such net rents collected over the sums payable by Tenant to Landlord hereunder. In the event of a breach or threatened breach by Tenant of any of the covenants or provisions hereof, Landlord shall have the right of injunction and the right to invoke any remedy allowed at law or in equity as if re-entry, summary proceedings and other remedies were not herein provided for. Mention in this lease of any particular remedy, shall not preclude Landlord from any other remedy, in law or in equity. Tenant hereby expressly waives any and all rights of redemption granted by or under any present or future laws in the event of Tenant being evicted or dispossessed for any cause, or in the event of Landlord obtaining possession of demised premises, by reason of the violation by Tenant of any of the covenants and conditions of this lease, or otherwise.
19. Neither Landlord nor Landlord’s agents have made any representations or promises with respect to the physical condition of the building, the land upon which it is erected or the demised premises, the rents, leases, expenses of operation or any other matter of thing affecting or related to the premises except as herein expressly set forth and no rights, easements or licenses are acquired by Tenant by implication or otherwise except as expressly set forth in the provisions of this lease. Tenant has inspected the building and the demised premises and is thoroughly acquainted with their condition, and agrees to take the same “as is” and acknowledges that the taking of possession of the demised premises by Tenant shall be conclusive evidence that the said premises and the building of which the same form a part were in good and satisfactory condition at the time such possession was so taken, except as to latent defects. All understandings and agreements heretofore made between the parties hereto are merged in this contract, Which alone fully and completely expresses the agreement between Landlord and Tenant and any executory agreement hereafter made shall be ineffective to change, modify, discharge or effect an abandonment of it in whole or in part, unless such executory agreement is in writing and signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, modification, discharge or abandonment is sought.
20. Tenant warrants that it has had no dealings with any broker or agent in connection with the negotiation or execution of this lease and Tenant agrees to indemnify Landlord and hold Landlord harmless from and against any and all costs, expenses or liability for commissions or other compensation or charges claimed by or awarded to any broker or agent with respect to this lease.
21. Upon the expiration or other termination of the term of this lease, Tenant shall quit and surrender to Landlord the demised premises, broom clean, in good order and condition, ordinary wear expected, and Tenant shall remove all its property. Tenant’s obligation to observe or perform this covenant shall survive the expiration or other termination of this lease. If the last day of term of this lease or any renewal thereof: falls on Sunday, this lease shall expire at noon on the preceding Saturday unless it be a legal holiday in which case it shall expire at noon the preceding business day.
22. Landlord covenants and agrees with Tenant that upon Tenant paying the rent and additional rent and observing and performing all the terms, covenants and conditions, on Tenant’s part to be observed and performed, Tenant may peaceably and quietly enjoy the premises hereby demised. This covenant is conditioned upon retention of title by the Landlord.
23. If Landlord is unable to give possession of the demised premises on the date of the commencement of the term hereof, because of the holding-over or retention of possession of any tenant, undertenant or occupants, or for any other reason, Landlord shall not be subject to any liability for failure to give possession on said date and the validity of the lease shall not be impaired under such circumstances, nor shall the same be construed in any way to extend the term of this lease, but the rent payable hereunder shall be abated (provided Tenant is not responsible for the inability to obtain possession) until after Landlord shall have given Tenant written notice that the premises are substantially ready for Tenant’s occupancy. If permission is given to Tenant to enter into the possession of the demised premises or to occupy premises other than the demised premises prior to the date specified as the commencement of the term of this lease, Tenant covenants and agrees that such occupancy shall be deemed to be under all the terms, covenants, conditions and provisions of this lease, except as to the covenant to pay rent. The provisions of this article are intended to constitute “an express provision to the contrary” within the meaning of Section 223-a of the New York Real Property Law.
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24. No act or thing done by Landlord or Landlord’s agents during the term hereby demised shall be deemed an acceptance of a surrender of said premises, and no agreement to accept such surrender shall be valid unless in writing signed by Landlord. No employee of Landlord or of Landlord’s agents shall have any power to accept the keys of said premises prior to the termination of the lease. The delivery of keys to any employee of Landlord or of Landlord’s agents shall not operate as a termination of the lease or a surrender of the premises. In the event of Tenant at any time desiring to have Landlord sublet the premises for Tenant’s account. Landlord or Landlord’s agents are authorized to receive said keys for such purposes without releasing Tenant from any of the obligations under this lease, and Tenant hereby relieves Landlord of any liability for loss of or damage to any of Tenant’s effects in connection with such subletting. The failure of Landlord to seek redress for violation of, or to insist upon the strict performance of, any covenant or condition of this lease, or any of the Rules and Regulations set forth or hereafter adopted by Landlord shall not prevent a subsequent act, which would have originally constituted a violation, from having all the force and effect of an original violation. The receipt by Landlord of rent with knowledge of the breach of any covenant of this lease shall not be deemed a waiver of such breach. The failure of Landlord to enforce any of the Rules and Regulations set forth, or hereafter adopted, against Tenant and/or any other tenant in the building shall not be deemed a waiver of any such Rules and Regulations. No Provisions of this lease shall be deemed to have been waived by Landlord, unless such waiver be in writing signed by Landlord. No payment by Tenant or receipt by Landlord of a lesser amount than the monthly rent herein stipulated shall be deemed to be other than on account of the earliest stipulated rent, nor shall and endorsement or statement on any check or any letter accompanying any check or payment as rent be deemed an accord and satisfaction, and Landlord may accept such check or payment without prejudice to Landlord’s right to recover the balance of such rent or pursue any other remedy in this lease provide. This lease contains the entire agreement between the parties, and any executory agreement hereafter made shall be ineffective to change, modify, discharge or effect an abandonment of it in whole or in part unless such executory agreement is in writing and signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, modification, discharge or abandonment is sought.
25. It is mutually agreed by and between Landlord and Tenant that the respective parties hereto shall and they do waive trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim brought by either of the parties hereto against the other (except for personal injury or property damage) on any matters whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with this lease, the relationship of Landlord and Tenant, Tenant’s use of or occupancy of said premises, and any emergency statutory or any other statutory remedy. It is further mutually agreed that in the event Landlord commences any summary proceeding for non-payment of rent, Tenant will not interpose any counterclaim of whatever nature or description in any such proceeding,
26. This lease and the obligation of Tenant to pay rent hereunder and perform all of the other covenants and agreements hereunder on part of Tenant to be performed shall in no wise be affected, impaired or excused because Landlord is unable to fulfill any of its obligations under this lease or to supply or is delayed in supplying any service expressly or impliedly to be supplied or is unable to make, or is delayed in making any repair, additions, alterations or decorations or is unable to supply or is delayed in supplying any equipment or fixtures if Landlord is prevented or delayed from so doing by reason of strike or labor troubles or any cause whatsoever including, but not limited to, government preemption in connection with a National Emergency or by reason of any rule, order or regulation of any department or subdivision thereof of any government agency or by reason of the conditions of supply and demand which have been or are affected by war or other emergency.
27. Except as otherwise in this lease provided, a bill, statement, notice or communication which Landlord may desire or be required to give to Tenant, shall be deemed sufficiently given or rendered if in writing, delivered to Tenant personally or sent by registered or certified mail addressed to Tenant at the building of which the demised premises form a part or at the last known residence address or business address of Tenant or left at any of the aforesaid premises addresses to Tenant, and the time of the rendition of such bill or statement and of the giving of such notice or communication shall be deemed to be the time when the same is delivered to Tenant, mailed, or left at the premises as herein provided. Any notice by Tenant to Landlord must be served by registered or certified mail addressed to Landlord at the address first hereinabove given or at such other address as Landlord shall designate by written notice.
28. As long as Tenant is not in default under any of the covenants of this lease, Landlord shall provide: (a) necessary elevator facilities on business days from 8a.m. to 6p.m. and on Saturdays from 8a.m. to I p.m., (b) heat to the demised premises when and as required by law, on business days from 8a.m. to 6p.m. and on Saturdays form 8a.m. to lp.m.; (c) water for ordinary lavatory purposes. If Tenant requires, uses or consumes water for any purpose in addition to ordinary lavatory purposes (of which fact Tenant constitutes Landlord to be the sole judge) Landlord may install a water meter and thereby measure Tenant’s water consumption for all purposes. Tenant shall pay Landlord for the cost of the meter and the cost of the installation thereof and throughout the duration of Tenant’s occupancy Tenant shall keep said meter and installation equipment in good working order and repair at Tenant’s own cost and expense. Tenant agrees to pay for water consumed, as shown on said meter as and when bills are rendered, and on default in making such payment. Landlord may pay such charges and collect the same from Tenant; (d) cleaning service for the demised premises at Landlord’s expense provided that the same are kept in order by Tenant. If tenant is not current with rent and additional rent, Landlord reserves the right to discontinue cleaning service, with no abatement of any nature to the rent on the premises, until such time as tenant becomes current. If however, said premises are to be kept clean by Tenant, it shall be done at Tenant’s sole expense, in a manner satisfactory to Landlord and no one other than persons approved by Landlord shall be permitted to enter said premises or the building of which they are a part for such purpose. Tenant shall pay Landlord the cost of removal of any of Tenant’s refuse and rubbish from the building. Air-conditioning/cooling will be furnished from May 15th through September 30th on business days (Mondays through Fridays, holidays excepted) from 8a.m. to 6p.m. and on Saturday from 8a.m. to 1p.m. and ventilation will be furnished on business days during the aforesaid hours except when air-conditioning/cooling is being furnished as aforesaid. If Tenant requires air conditioning/cooling or ventilation for more extended hours or on Saturdays, Sundays or on holidays, Landlord will furnish the same at Tenant’s expense; (e) Landlord shall have no responsibility or liability for failure to supply the services agreed to herein. Landlord reserves the right to stop services of the heating, elevators, plumbing, air-conditioning, power systems or cleaning or other services, if any, when necessary by reason of accident or for repairs, alterations, replacements or improvements necessary or desirable in the judgment of Landlord for as long as may be reasonably required by reason thereof or by reason of strikes, accidents, laws, order or regulations or any other reason beyond the control of Landlord.
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29. If an excavation shall be made upon land adjacent to the demised premises, or shall be authorized to be made, Tenant shall afford to the person causing or authorized to cause such excavation, license to enter upon the demised premises for the purpose of doing such work as said person shall deem necessary to preserve the wall of the building of which demised premises form a part from injury or damage and to support the same by proper foundations without any claim for damages or indemnity against Landlord, or diminution or abatement of rent.
30. Tenant and Tenant’s servants, employees, agents, visitors, and licensees shall observe faithfully, and comply strictly with, the Rules and Regulations and such other and further reasonable Rules and Regulations as Landlord or Landlord’s agents may from time to time adopt. Notice of any additional rules or regulations shall be given in such manner as Landlord may elect. In case Tenant disputes the reasonableness of any additional Rule or Regulation hereafter made or adopted by Landlord or Landlord’s agents, the parties hereto agree to submit the question of the reasonableness of such Rule or Regulation for decision to the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Management Division of The Real Estate Board of New York, Inc., or to such impartial person or persons as he may designate, whose determination shall be final and conclusive upon the parties hereto. The right to dispute the reasonableness of any additional Rule or Regulation upon Tenant’s part shall be deemed waived unless the same shall be asserted by service of a notice, in writing upon landlord within ten (10) days after the giving of notice thereof. Nothing in this lease contained shall be construed to impose upon Landlord any duty or obligation to enforce the Rules and Regulations or terms, covenants or conditions in any other lease, as against any other tenant and Landlord shall not be liable to Tenant for violation of the same by any other tenant, its servants, employees, agents, visitors or licensees.
31. The covenants, conditions and agreements contained in this lease shall bind and insure to the benefit of Landlord and Tenant and their respective heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, successors, and except as otherwise provided in this lease, their assigns.
32. Tenant has deposited with Landlord the sum of $4,774 as security for the faithful performance and observance by Tenant of the terms, provisions and conditions of the lease; it is agreed that in the event Tenant defaults in respect of any of the terms, provisions and conditions of this lease, including, but not limited to, the payment of rent and additional rent, Landlord may use, apply or retain the whole or any part of the security so deposited to the extent required for the payment of any rent and additional rent or any other sum as to which Tenant is in default or for any sum which Landlord may expend or may be required to expend by reason of Tenant’s default in respect of any of the terms, covenants and conditions of this lease, including but not limited to, any damages or deficiency in the re-letting of the premises, whether such damages or deficiency accrued before or after summary proceedings or other re-entry by Landlord. In the event that Tenant shall fully and faithfully comply with all of the terms, provisions, covenants and conditions of this lease, the security shall be returned to Tenant after the date fixed as the end of the Lease and after delivery of entire possession of the demised premises to Landlord. In the event of a sale of the land and building or leasing of the building, of which the demised premises form a part, Landlord shall have the right to transfer the security to the vendee or lessee and Landlord shall thereupon be released by Tenant from all liability for the return of such security; and Tenant agrees to look to the new Landlord solely for the return of said security; and it is agreed that the provisions hereof shall apply to every transfer or assignment made of the security to a new Landlord. Tenant further covenants that it will not assign or encumber or attempt to assign or encumber the monies deposited herein as security and that neither Landlord nor its successors or assigns shall be bound by any such assignment, encumbrance, attempted assignment or attempted encumbrance.
33. Wherever in this lease Tenant is obligated, as additional rent, to pay a pro-rata or proportional share of any expense, such share shall be deemed to be equal to the agreed percentage of rentable area demised to Tenant as hereinbefore set forth in Paragraph Three (3).
34. Tenant shall pay as additional rent to the base rent herein, the pro-rata share of increases in real estate and town taxes as specified in Paragraph 3 hereof. Said increases, once known, shall be billed by the Landlord to the Tenant and shall be deemed as additional rent and shall be payable on the 1st of the month following the date of rendition of said bill.
35. No signs or lettering or displays of any nature shall be permitted on any door or window or exterior wall bounding the herein leased premises or elsewhere within the demised premises such as will be visible from the street. Landlord will provide door and directory signage in accordance with building standard.
36. Window decorations visible from the outside of the building shall be only draperies made with insulated lining and so hung that when fully opened shall permit total exposure of the window area.
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37. Landlord shall furnish to Tenant such electric
current as Tenant shall require for the operation and maintenance of the premises of Tenant. Prior to the commencement of the term of
this lease, Tenant shall supply to Landlord a complete list of all of his equipment utilizing electricity intended to be installed by
Tenant, together with the amps and volts required to operate such machinery, which Tenant represents and warrants will not include anything
other than normal office equipment used in any general business office. Landlord shall not in any wise be liable or responsible to Tenant
for any loss of damage or expense which Tenant may sustain or incur if during the term of this lease, either the quantity or character
of electric current is changed, or is no longer available or suitable for Tenant’s requirements. Any riser or risers required to supply
Tenant’s electrical requirements (in addition to those initially installed upon construction of said building) will, upon written request
of Tenant be furnished and installed by Landlord at the sole cost and expense of Tenant, if, in Landlord’s sole judgment, the same are
necessary and will not cause permanent damage or injury to the building or demised premises or cause or create a dangerous or hazardous
condition or entail excessive or unreasonable alterations, repairs or expense or interfere with or disturb other tenants or occupants.
In addition to the installations of such riser or risers, Landlord will also, at the sole cost and expense of Tenant, furnish and install
all other equipment proper and necessary in connection therewith, subject to the terms and conditions contained herein. Tenant covenants
and agrees that at all times its use of electric current shall never exceed the capacity of existing feeders to the building or the risers
or wiring installation. It is further covenanted and agreed by Tenant that all the costs and expenses that may be incurred by Landlord,
which are chargeable to Tenant: are collectible as additional rent and shall be paid by Tenant to Landlord within five (5) days after
rendition of any bill or statement to Tenant therefore. Tenant at Tenant’s expense, shall purchase and install all lamps, tubes, and
bulbs used in the demised premises, except that Landlord shall furnish and install the initial tubes used in the demised premises. Tenant
shall make no alterations or additions to the electric equipment and/or appliances without prior written consent of Landlord in each
instance. Tenant shall pay as additional rent to the base rent
herein set forth a sum equal to Tenant’s pro rata share of any increase in the cost of electrical service for the building of which the
demised premises form a part over the calendar year for the year preceding the commencement of this lease. All monthly installments or
rent shall reflect one twelfth (1/12th) of the annual amount of such pro rata share of such increase. In addition to the foregoing
the Tenant shall pay as additional rent to base rent herein set forth a sum equal to Tenant’s pro rata share of any increase in
the cost of fuel (whether oil or gas or oil and gas) for the building of which the demised premises form a part over the calendar year
for the year preceding the commencement of this lease. All monthly installments of rent shall reflect one twelfth (l/12th)
of the annual amount of such pro rata share of said increase. The Tenant’s pro rata share shall be the percentage factor of the
building occupied by the Tenant as set forth in Paragraph 3.
38. The
rent reserved on Page One of this lease is subject to increase at the commencement of each year of the term if this lease, beginning
with the second year of term of this lease, by the rise, if any, in the Consumer Price Index as Published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics, or its successor, for the smallest geographic area encompassing Suffolk County, in effect at the commencement of each year
of the term of the lease over the said Index in effect on the date of the commencement of the preceding year of the term of this
lease. Each rent so established at the commencement of each year of the term of this lease shall be considered
the new base rate rent for that year. Said Consumer Price Index shall never be applied where same shall result in a reduction of the
base rent. Any extension or option contained in this lease, if any, shall be subject to the increase in the Consumer Price Index as stipulated
above, and all such increases shall always be based on the last base rent established.
39. Each year the Tenant shall pay as
additional rent to the base rent herein set forth a sum equal to Tenant’s pro rata share of any increase in the operating (in addition
to the electric, gas and fuel oil costs stipulated in Paragraph 37 of this lease), maintenance and administrative expense for the building
of which the demised premise form a part over the sum expended for 198. The Landlord shall determine the estimated amount of the additional
rent for; Operating, Maintenance, and Administrative costs; and Fuel and Electric. He will arrive at his estimate from the actual increase
if any, from the prior year’s costs and his estimate of the costs of the current year, which sum shall be paid by Tenant in twelve
(12) equal monthly payments. At the end of each period for each item, when the Landlord’s books have been posted and the actual
cost for the preceding twelve (12) month period determined, the Landlord shall render to the Tenant a statement showing the actual costs
and the Tenant’s actual obligations for same. Should there be any additional sums due, same shall be payable by the Tenant upon
the presentation of such statement. Should the Tenant be entitled to a refund, the Landlord shall tender said money simultaneously with
such statement. Tenant shall have thirty (30) days from the date of issuance of such statement, to examine Landlord’s books and
records after presentation of bills.
40. In any case herein in which the Tenant is obligated to pay an additional rent to Landlord, failure to pay such additional rent shall be deemed a default for which all of the remedies herein set forth for the failure to pay the base rent shall be available.
41. In any case in which the base rent or additional rent is not paid within ten (10) days of the day when same is due, Tenant shall pay as additional rent an amount equal to eight and one-half (81/2) cents for each dollar so due, and, in addition thereto, the sum of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars for the purpose of defraying expenses incidental to the handling of such delinquent payment. Said sums it is agreed shall be deemed additional rent.
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42. If any clause of this lease, or portion thereof, shall be deemed illegal or unenforceable, then such clause or portion thereof shall be stricken from this lease and the balance of this lease shall remain in full force and effect.
43. The Tenant shall not install any equipment for the purpose of the storage or dispensing of food or beverage of any nature whatsoever within the demised premises. In the event such equipment is found within the demised premises of Tenant, the Tenant hereby consents and authorizes the Landlord to remove said equipment without notice from the premises of the Tenant and place same in the garbage disposal unit of said office building after ten (10) days from the date of removal of said equipment from the demised premises. During said ten (10) day period said equipment shall be stored for the Tenant by the Landlord. The removal of such equipment shall impose no liability upon the Landlord whether for damage to said equipment or otherwise.
44. Tenant agrees to supply and utilize hard-surface plastic or comparable material beneath all desk chairs to be used in the leased premises, all at Tenant’s expense.
45. All telephone equipment shall be installed and mounted in accordance with the building standards. The building standards are available in the Management Office. No equipment or telephone lines shall be installed without conformity to said building standards or without prior written notice to the Landlord. Upon failure to comply with the foregoing any damage to any part of the demised premises, including peripheral walls thereof, shall be paid by the Tenant on the first (1st) of the month next ensuing the determination of such damage by the Landlord. In the instance of a hole being drilled into the interior walls or the peripheral walls of the demised premises, the damage shall be the cost (including both labor and material) of the replacement of the panel into which said drilling was done.
46. The parking lot and parking facilities and driveways relative thereto are not deemed as part of the herein demised premises and the failure or inability to utilize a parking space or the access thereto by the Tenant or its agents, servants, employees, or invitees shall not be deemed to constitute a dispossess of the Tenant under the terms of this lease or a breach of any terms or conditions of this lease by the Landlord. Any vehicle of the Tenant or its agents, servants, employees, or invitees parked within the parking fields which are intended to service the building of the which the demised premises form a part, or the contiguous office building, in an area other than designated for the parking of vehicles shall be subject to being towed away in the sole and absolute discretion of the Landlord and such tow-away shall impose no liability upon the Landlord , its agents, servants, employees, or contractors by reason of any damage suffered to said vehicle; and the Tenant hereby consents and authorizes the Landlord, its agents, servants, employees, or contractors to so tow away any vehicle of the Tenant, its agents, servants, employees, or invitees. In addition, the Tenant agrees to pay such tow away charge as is levied by the party so towing such vehicle but in any event not less than One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars. Such charge shall be deemed as additional rent due and/payable with the regular rent herein reserved on the first (1st) day of the month next following the date of such tow-away. At no time will tenant, tenants agents, guests or invitees utilize more than four parking spaces for each l000 square feet of rentable space in the building occupied by tenant.
47. Anything in this lease to the contrary notwithstanding, Tenant shall pay in addition to the base rent stipulated on Page One of this lease and to the increase in electricity costs stipulated in Paragraph 37 hereof, a charge of Three dollars and twenty-five cents ($3.25) per square foot per year for electrical service. The monthly charge for the first year of this lease shall be $403
48. The base year for computation of increases in real estate taxes, as provided in Paragraph 34 of this lease shall be 2012/13
49. Any reasonable legal fees incidental to the collection of any monies due Landlord under the terms of this lease shall be borne by Tenant as additional rent.
50. If Tenant installs electrical equipment other than that which is used in a normal business office, then Tenant agrees to pay for the additional electricity required by said equipment.
51. Tenant agrees that office copiers and other office machinery shall be energy efficient particularly those devices which have been designed to run continuously. Tenant’s failure to provide such equipment, and/or continues to utilize any equipment which violates this clause, shall subject Tenant to payment of additional costs of electricity based on use of said non-complying equipment or machinery.
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In Witness Whereof, Landlord and Tenant have respectively signed and sealed this lease as of the day and year first above written.
Witness for Landlord: | Fairfield Office Park at Hauppauge LLC | ||
by | ![]() |
Witness for Tenant: | Benjamin Securities, LLC | ||
William T. Baker President | by | ![]() |
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
CORPORATE TENANT
STATE OF NEW YORK } ss.:
County of
On this 15th day of August, 2013, before the personally came William T. Baker to me known, who being by me duly sworn, did depose and say that he resides in that he is the President of Benjamin Securities, Inc.
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Exhibit 6.2
538
Broadhollow Road, Third Floor East, Melville, New York 11747-3634 • 631-499-6660 •
www.FAIRFIELDPROPERTIES.COM
Date: 21 day of November 2019
LEASE EXTENSION
The lease dated July 2013 and previously extended November 2018 between Benjamin Securities as tenant and Fairfield Office Park at Hauppauge LLC as Landlord in regards to Suite 210 located at 750 Veterans Memorial Highway Hauppauge, NY is hereby extended under the following terms and conditions:
1. | The lease shall expire December 31, 2020. |
2. | Base monthly rent for the extended term shall be $2891.72 plus electric of $403. |
3. | Electronic signature (by .pdf or facsimile) shall be deemed originals and may be enforced as if an original agreement. |
Except as modified herein, all terms and provisions of the original lease shall remain unchanged except there will be no further option to renew.
Agreed: | ||||
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Tenant | Landlord | |||
By | William T. Baker President 11/21/19 | By | ||
Print Name and Date | Print Name and Date |
Developer • Owner
Multifamily Communities • Office Complexes
Co-op, Condo, Hoa Management • Real Estate Brokerage • Mortgage Financing • Full Service Insurance Agency
The Standard Of Excellence And Service
Exhibit 6.3
538
Broadhollow Road, Third Floor East, Melville, New York. 11747-3634 • 631-499-6660 •
www.FAIRFIELDPROPERTIES.COM
Date: 28th day of October 2020
LEASE EXTENSION
The lease dated July 2013, previously extended November 2018 and November 2019, between Benjamin Securities as tenant and Fairfield Office Park at Hauppauge LLC as Landlord in regards to Suite 210 located at 750 Veterans Memorial Highway Hauppauge, NY is hereby extended under the following tenns and conditions
1. | The lease shall expire on December 31, 2023 |
2. | The Base monthly rent for the first year of the extension term, January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021 shall be $2790.00. |
3. | The electric charge for the term of the extension term shall be $452.60. |
4. | On each anniversary of the extension the base monthly rent shall increase by 3% over the prior year. |
5. | The Base year for the calculation of increases in real estate taxes shall be 2020/2021. |
6. | The landlord, at their expense, shall do the following work in the demised premises: |
a. | Paint the entire suite one color choosen by tenant from landlords samples |
7. | Electronic signature (by .pdf or facscimile) shall be deemed originals and may be enforced as if an original agreement. |
Except as modified herein, all tenns and provisions of the original lease shall remain unchanged:
Agreed: | ||||
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Tenant | Landlord | |||
By | William T. Baker 10/28/20 | By | David Berger 10/29/20 | |
Print Name and Date | Print Name and Date |
Developer • owner
multifamily communities • office complexes
co-op, condo, hoa management • real estate brokerage • mortgage financing • full service insurance agency
The Standard Of Excellence And Service
Exhibit 6.4
Member FINRA, SIPC
17 State Street, New York, NY 10004
PLACEMENT AGENT AGREEMENT
April 19, 2023
William T. Baker, CEO
Baker Global Asset Management Inc.
750 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 210
Hauppauge, NY 11788
E-Mail: wbaker@benjaminsecurities.com | Website: www.benjaminsecurities.com |
This Placement Agent Agreement (this “Agreement”) supersedes all prior or contemporaneous negotiations, commitments, agreements and writings with respect to the subject matter hereof, all such other negotiations, commitments, agreements and writings will have no further force or effect, and the parties to any such other negotiation, commitment, agreement or writing will have no further rights or obligations thereunder. This is a Confidential Agreement and may only be viewed by the intended recipients and their legal and accounting representatives. Baker Global Asset Management Inc., which includes its subsidiaries and affiliates (the “Company”) is strictly prohibited from reproducing or disseminating this Agreement without the prior written consent of Alexander Capital, L.P. (“Alexander Capital”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon execution, Alexander Capital consents that this Agreement will be summarized and included as an exhibit in an offering statement or any other required or advisable filing with the SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (“SEC”).
1. | Engagement; Term of Engagement. Subject to and in accordance with the terms set forth herein, the Company hereby engages Alexander Capital to render the investment banking services to the Company set out herein on an exclusive basis for the twelve-month period (the “Engagement Period”) commencing on April 19, 2023 (the “Engagement Date”). |
2. | Regulation A Offering. |
a. | The engagement of Alexander Capital includes the engagement of Alexander Capital as a placement agent and a qualified institutional underwriter (as defined within FINRA Rule 5121(a)(2)) in connection with a proposed best-efforts offering (the “Reg A Offering” or “Offering”) under Regulation A promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). In the Reg A Offering, the Company may offer shares of common stock (the “Shares” or “Securities”). |
b. | Alexander Capital will seek to assist the Company to raise capital in the Reg A Offering through the sale of Securities to both accredited investors and institutional investors. Alexander Capital and the Company expect the Reg A Offering will result in gross proceeds to the Company of up to five million dollars ($5,000,000). The actual terms and amount of the Offerings will depend on market conditions, and will be subject to negotiation between the Company, Alexander Capital and the prospective investors. The Company expressly acknowledges that: (i) the Offering will be undertaken on a “best efforts” basis, (ii) Alexander Capital will not be required to purchase any Securities from the Company, and (iii) the execution of this Agreement does not constitute a commitment by Alexander Capital to consummate any transaction contemplated hereunder and does not ensure a successful Offering or the ability of Alexander Capital to secure any financing on behalf of the Company. |
3. | Alexander Capital Services and Due Diligence. During the Engagement Period, Alexander Capital shall provide the Company with such regular and customary investment banking services as is reasonably requested by the Company including, but not limited to, the following: |
Services:
a. | Review and comment on the Offering Materials (as defined below); |
b. | Identify potential investors (“Investors”); |
c. | Contact potential Investors that may be provided by the Company to Alexander Capital as well as accredited, strategic, and institutional Investors identified by Alexander Capital to discuss the Reg A Offering and solicit investment in the Reg A Offering; |
d. | Act as the Company’s placement agent and qualified institutional underwriter (with or without co-placement agents, selected dealers or other co-brokers, as determined by Alexander Capital in consultation with the Company) for the Reg A Offering; |
e. | With respect to each Investor that Alexander Capital introduces to the Company or the Company introduces to Alexander Capital for investment (“Introduced Investors”), the Company and Alexander Capital will review the completed Investor subscription documents including subscription agreements that will include investor qualification questionnaires; after review and acceptance by the Company and Alexander Capital, Alexander Capital will assist with qualifying investors, including, but not limited to, conducting Know Your Customer and Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) checks, confirming anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, and performing suitability reviews on each Introduced Investor; |
f. | Gather additional information or clarification from prospective investors, working as necessary with Company and/or their agent; |
g. | Provide Company with prompt notice for Subscription Agreements that cannot be accepted; |
h. | Assist Company in transmitting investor payment information to Introduced Investors, including but not limited to following up as to investment funds receipt by the Company; |
i. | Assist Company in transmitting the purchase information data to VStock Transfer, LLC, the Company’s transfer agent; |
j. | Review Company procedures for the Reg A Offering provided by Company’s legal counsel; |
Due Diligence:
k. | Review the Company’s business plan, financial model and marketing materials; |
l. | Conduct additional due diligence which shall include a business review, interviews with key management, review of information regarding the Company, capital structure, historical financial statements, management background, use of funds, timelines, budgets, intellectual property, technology, management systems and market position and which may include site visit(s) as appropriate; |
m. | Maintain a due diligence file on the Reg A Offering for review by the SEC and/or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”); |
n. | Review the Company’s legal filings associated with the Reg A Offering in which Alexander Capital has participated. |
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4. | Exclusivity. During the Engagement Period, the Company and its affiliates agree not to solicit, negotiate with or enter into any agreement with any placement agent, financial advisor, or any other person or entity in connection with a Reg A offering of the Company’s Securities. The Company acknowledges that Alexander Capital may ask other FINRA and SEC member broker-dealers to participate as co-placement agents, selected dealers or co-brokers for the Reg A Offering and upon appointment of any such co-agent, such co-agent shall automatically receive the benefits of this Agreement, including the indemnification rights provided for herein and, if requested, the Company will execute a co-agency agreement that confirms that such co-agent is entitled to the benefits of this Agreement, including the indemnification rights provided for herein. The Company will not be responsible for paying any placement agency fees, commissions or expense reimbursements to any co-agents retained by Alexander Capital that are in excess of the fees and expense reimbursement provided for in this Agreement. |
5. | Company Deliverables. Prior to and in connection with the Offerings, the Company shall: |
a. | Provide Alexander Capital completed Directors and Officers questionnaires which will include background checks of key employees, officers, directors and affiliates of the Company and any additional reasonable diligence information pertaining to the Company including but not limited to its legal structure, capital structure, historical financial information, liabilities and government and business approvals as required by law and regulatory authorities; |
b. | Provide Alexander Capital all information reasonably requested by Alexander Capital; |
c. | Coordinate with Alexander Capital to prepare a plan for a general solicitation and copies of all marketing and other materials to be used in connection with its general solicitation, which shall be subject to prior approval by the Company’s counsel as well as Alexander Capital and its counsel, only to the extent required by Alexander Capital to obtain FINRA regulatory approval required for brokerage services; |
d. | Provide Alexander Capital with the materials required to be filed with FINRA under FINRA Rule 5110 in connection with the Reg A Offering; |
e. | Provide Alexander Capital with audited financial statements for each of the Company’s last two completed fiscal years prepared in accordance with US GAAP, financial model and such other related materials as may be requested by Alexander Capital; |
f. | Provide Alexander Capital with a customary opinion of counsel in connection with the Reg A Offering; |
g. | Provide Alexander Capital with a Form 1-A Offering Statement in connection with the Regulation A Offering and such other related information and documentation as is prepared by the Company with such transaction documents, exhibits and supplements as may from time to time be required or appropriate in connection with the Offering (the “Offering Materials”) and give Alexander Capital the opportunity to comment on the Offering Materials and discuss the same with the Company. |
Subsequent to closing of each and any sale of Securities in an Offering(s), the Company shall:
h. | Use commercially reasonable efforts to maintain and execute an active investor relations program for a period of twelve (12) months following the completion of any of such Offering(s); |
i. | Provide Alexander Capital with, for a period of not less than twelve ( 12) months from the closing of any Offering(s), timely quarterly statements setting forth the Company’s operations and financial position (including balance sheet, profit and loss statements and data regarding outstanding purchase orders) as is regularly prepared by management of Company, except to the extent publicly filed with the SEC. |
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6. | Fees and Expenses. |
a. | Placement Fee. At the closing of each and any sale of Securities in the Reg A Offering, the Company shall pay Alexander Capital or its designees a cash fee equal to six percent (6%) of the gross proceeds from the Reg A Offering. |
b. | Fees, Expense and Legal Expense Reimbursement. The Company shall reimburse Alexander Capital for all fees, disbursements and expenses in connection with the proposed Offering in an amount not to exceed $100,000, including the reasonable fees, costs and disbursements of its legal counsel in an amount not to exceed an aggregate of $50,000. All incurred expenses shall be preapproved and prepaid by the Company, including due diligence expenses. The Company shall further deliver to Alexander Capital $10,000 as an advance to be applied towards the accountable expenses. In the event this Agreement shall terminate prior to the consummation of the Offering, the advance received against reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the Offering will be returned to the Company to the extent not actually incurred in accordance with FINRA Rule 5110(f)(2)(C). |
c. | Non-Accountable Expenses. The Company shall pay Alexander Capital a success-based non-accountable expense allowance in the amount of one (1%) of the gross proceeds of the Offering, at the closing of the Offering. |
d. | Right of First Refusal. Following the closing of the Offering, Alexander Capital shall have an irrevocable right of first refusal (the “Right of First Refusal”), for a period of twelve (12) months after the closing date, to act as sole investment banker, sole book-runner, and/or sole placement agent, at its sole discretion, for each and every future public and private equity and debt offering, including all equity linked financings (each, a “Subject Transaction”), during such twelve (12) month period, of the Company, or any successor to or any current or future subsidiary of the Company, on terms and conditions customary to Alexander Capital for such Subject Transactions. Alexander Capital shall have the sole right to determine whether or not any other broker dealer shall have the right to participate in a Subject Transaction and the economic terms of such participation. For the avoidance of any doubt, during such 12 month period the Company shall not retain, engage or solicit any additional investment banker, book-runner, financial advisor, underwriter and/or placement agent in a Subject Transaction without the express written consent of Alexander Capital. |
e. | Lock-Up Restrictions: The Company shall execute and cause each executive officer, director and 5% or greater stockholder of the Company to execute lock-up agreements, for a period of 360 days commencing from the date of the closing of the Offering. |
7. | Notification for Financing. During the Engagement Period, the Company agrees that it will not undertake or consummate any offering, whether equity or debt securities, without first providing to Alexander Capital advance written notification of such Offering. |
8. | Tail Period. If, during the 18-month period after the expiration or termination of this Agreement, the Company consummates any public or private offering or other financing or capital-raising transaction of any kind with any party introduced to the Company by Alexander Capital during the Engagement Period, then the Company shall pay Alexander Capital the full consideration to which Alexander Capital would have been entitled to hereunder had this Agreement not expired or been terminated. |
9. | Use of Alexander Capital Information. The Company acknowledges that all opinions and advice (written or oral) given by Alexander Capital to the Company in connection with Alexander Capital’s engagement are intended solely for the benefit and use of the Company in considering the transaction to which they relate, and the Company agrees that no such opinion or advice shall be used for any other purpose or reproduced or disseminated any time, for any purpose, nor may the Company use Alexander Capital’s name in any annual reports or any other reports or releases of the Company without Alexander Capital’s prior written consent, which is deemed to be granted hereby to the extent required to be disclosed in any filing with the SEC made in connection with the Reg A Offering. Subject to compliance with applicable securities laws, Alexander Capital will publicize its engagement with the Company and the Reg A Offering on its website, which will include a business description of the Company and use of the Company’s logo. |
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10. | Accurate Information Provided by the Company; Representations and Warranties. |
a. | The Company acknowledges that in performing its services under this Agreement, Alexander Capital will rely upon the data, material and other information supplied by the Company to Alexander Capital without Alexander Capital independently verifying the accuracy, completeness or veracity of such information and the Company agrees to provide truthful and accurate information to Alexander Capital and the Investors. |
b. | The Offering Materials will be in a form customary for offerings under Regulation A using the “Offering Circular” format of Form 1-A and acceptable to Alexander Capital, who shall be afforded the opportunity to review and comment on the Offering Materials. The Company represents and warrants that the Offering Materials: (i) will be prepared by the management of the Company and reviewed and approved by its Board of Directors and legal counsel; and (ii) will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or necessary to make the statements therein or statements previously made not misleading. The Company will advise Alexander Capital immediately of the occurrence of any event or any other change known to the Company which results in the Offering Materials containing an untrue statement of a material fact or omitting to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein or previously made, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. |
c. | Alexander Capital retains the right to continue to perform due diligence during the Engagement Period. |
d. | The Company agrees that it will enter into a securities purchase agreement, subscription agreement or other customary agreements with Investors in connection with the Reg A Offering, and that Company counsel will issue an opinion letter with respect to the transaction in the form required to be filed with the SEC. |
e. | The Company further agrees that Alexander Capital may rely upon, and shall be a third-party beneficiary of, the representations and warranties and applicable covenants and agreements made to the Investors in connection with the Offerings. |
11. | Independent Contractor. Alexander Capital shall perform its services hereunder as an independent contractor and not as an employee of the Company or an affiliate thereof. It is understood and agreed to by the parties hereto that Alexander Capital shall have no authority to act for, represent or bind the Company or any affiliate thereof in any manner. |
12. | Indemnification; Confidentiality. The Company agrees to indemnify Alexander Capital and its controlling persons, representatives, and agents in accordance with the indemnification provisions set forth in Appendix I hereto, and the parties agree to the confidentiality provisions of Appendix II hereto, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. These provisions will apply regardless of whether any Offering is consummated. |
13. | Limitation on Liability. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, the Company agrees that neither Alexander Capital nor its affiliates, and the respective officers, directors, employees, agents, and representatives of Alexander Capital, its affiliates and each other person, if any, controlling Alexander Capital or any of its affiliates, shall have any liability (whether direct or indirect, in contract or tort or otherwise) to the Company for or in connection with the engagement and transaction described herein in an amount excess of the actual fees paid to Alexander Capital hereunder. |
14. | Announcement of Offerings. If the Reg A Offering is consummated, Alexander Capital may, at its own expense, place a customary announcement on its website, portal, periodicals, or marketing materials as Alexander Capital may desire announcing the closing of the Offerings, the name of the Company, the securities issued and the gross proceeds of the Offerings. The parties agree that any such announcement will be subject to SEC and FINRA regulations. |
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15. | Other Engagements. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to limit the ability of Alexander Capital or its respective affiliates to pursue, investigate, analyze, invest in, or engage in investment banking, financial advisory, or any other business relationship with entities other than the Company, notwithstanding that such entities may be engaged in a business which is similar to or competitive with the business of the Company. The Company acknowledges and agrees that it does not claim any proprietary interest in the identity of any other entity in its industry or otherwise, and that the identity of any such entity is not confidential information under Appendix II of this Agreement. |
16. | Governing Law; Consent to Jurisdiction; Trial by Jury. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to conflict of laws principles thereof. The Company hereby agrees that any action, proceeding or claim against it arising out of, or relating in any way to this Agreement shall be brought and enforced in the New York State Court, or in the United States District Court, and irrevocably submits to such jurisdiction, which jurisdiction shall be exclusive. The Company hereby waives any objection to such exclusive jurisdiction and that such courts represent an inconvenient forum. Any such process or summons to be served upon the Company may be served by transmitting a copy thereof by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to it in the New York State Court or the United States District Court. Such mailing shall be deemed personal service and shall be legal and binding upon the Company in any action, proceeding, or claim. The Company (on its behalf and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, on behalf of its stockholders and affiliates) and Alexander Capital hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any right to a trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby. |
17. | Failure to Pay. In the event that the Company shall fail to pay to Alexander Capital any fee or expense reimbursement due hereunder as and when due, interest shall accrue on such amount at the rate of twelve percent (12%) per annum. The Company shall be obligated to pay to Alexander Capital all expenses of every kind and nature incurred in the enforcement of this Agreement or any of its rights hereunder, including but not limited to, reasonable out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees, and hereby agrees to pay to Alexander Capital on demand the amount of any and all such expenses. |
18. | Notification. Any notice or communication permitted or required hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed sufficiently given if (a) hand-delivered, (b) sent postage prepaid by registered mail, return receipt requested, or (c) sent by facsimile or email (with confirmation of transmission), to the respective parties at their addresses first set forth above, or to such other address as either party may notify the other in writing. |
19. | Assignment. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of each of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns. The Company may not assign this Agreement nor its rights or obligations hereunder without Alexander Capital’s prior written consent. Alexander Capital may not assign this Agreement nor its rights or obligations hereunder without the Company’s prior written consent; provided, however, that Alexander Capital shall have the right to assign this Agreement and its rights and obligations hereunder without the need to obtain the consent of the Company in the event of any business combination or sale of all or substantially all of the assets of Alexander Capital. |
20. | Miscellaneous. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which together shall constitute one and the same original document. No provision of this Agreement may be amended, modified or waived, except in a writing signed by all of the parties hereto. The representations, warranties and covenants set forth herein shall survive for a period of 12 months following the expiration or termination of this Agreement. Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement will be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law. In the event that any provision of this Agreement shall be held to be void or unenforceable, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect. This Agreement contains the entire agreement between the Company and Alexander Capital concerning the subject matter hereof and supersedes any prior understanding or agreement with respect thereto. |
Signature Page Follows
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If the foregoing correctly sets forth the understanding between Alexander Capital and the Company, please so indicate your agreement by signing in the place provided below, at which time this Agreement shall become a binding contract.
Sincerely, | ||
Alexander Capital, L.P. | ||
By: | /s/ Jonathan Gazdak | |
Jonathan Gazdak | ||
Managing Director | ||
Accepted and Agreed, | ||
Baker Global Asset Management Inc. | ||
By: | /s/ William T. Baker | |
William T. Baker, CEO |
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APPENDIX I
INDEMNIFICATION AND CONTRIBUTION
Capitalized terms used in this Appendix shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Agreement to which this Appendix is attached.
The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Alexander Capital and its respective affiliates (as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) and their respective directors, officers, employees, agents and controlling persons (Alexander Capital and each such person being a “Alexander Capital Indemnified Party”) from and against all losses, claims, damages and liabilities (or actions, including shareholder actions, in respect thereof), joint or several, to which such Alexander Capital Indemnified Party may become subject under any applicable federal or state law, or otherwise, which are related to or result from the performance by Alexander Capital of the services contemplated by or the engagement of Alexander Capital pursuant to, this Agreement and will promptly reimburse such Alexander Capital Indemnified Party on demand for all reasonable expenses (including reasonable counsel fees and expenses) as they are incurred in connection with the investigation of, preparation for or defense arising from any threatened or pending claim, whether or not such claim, action or proceeding is initiated or brought by the Company. The Company will not be liable to any Alexander Capital Indemnified Party under the foregoing indemnification and reimbursement provisions, (i) for any settlement by an Alexander Capital Indemnified Party effected without the Company’s prior written consent (not to be unreasonably withheld); or (ii) to the extent that any loss, claim, damage or liability is found in a final, non-appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted primarily from Alexander Capital’s willful misconduct or gross negligence. The Company also agrees that no Alexander Capital Indemnified Party shall have any liability (whether direct or indirect, in contract or tort or otherwise) to the Company or its security holders or creditors related to or arising out of the engagement of Alexander Capital pursuant to, or the performance by Alexander Capital of the services contemplated by, this Agreement except to the extent that any loss, claim, damage or liability is found in a final, non-appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted primarily from Alexander Capital’s willful misconduct or gross negligence. Alexander Capital agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company and its respective affiliates (as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) and their respective directors, officers, employees, agents and controlling persons (the Company and each such person being a “Company Indemnified Party”) from and against all losses, claims, damages and liabilities (or actions, including shareholder actions, in respect thereof), joint or several, to which such Company Indemnified Party may become subject under any applicable federal or state law, or otherwise, which are related to or result from the willful misconduct or gross negligence of Alexander Capital in performing the services contemplated under this Agreement and will promptly reimburse such Company Indemnified Party on demand for all reasonable expenses (including reasonable counsel fees and expenses) as they are incurred in connection with the investigation of, preparation for or defense arising from any threatened or pending claim, whether or not such claim, action or proceeding is initiated or brought by Alexander Capital. Alexander Capital will not be liable to such Company Indemnified Party under the foregoing indemnification and reimbursement provisions for any settlement by a Company Indemnified Party effected without Alexander Capital’s prior written consent (not to be unreasonably withheld).
Promptly after receipt by an Alexander Capital Indemnified Party or a Company Indemnified Party (each an “Indemnified Party”) of notice of any intention or threat to commence an action, suit or proceeding or notice of the commencement of any action, suit or proceeding, such Indemnified Party will, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against the Indemnified Party pursuant hereto, promptly notify the Company in writing of the same. In case any such action is brought against any Indemnified Party and such Indemnified Party notifies the Company or Alexander Capital, as the case may be, of the commencement thereof, the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, may elect to assume the defense thereof, with counsel reasonably satisfactory to such Indemnified Party, and an Indemnified Party may employ counsel to participate in the defense of any such action provided, that the employment of such counsel shall be at the Indemnified Party’s own expense, unless (i) the employment of such counsel has been authorized in writing by the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, (ii) the Indemnified Party has reasonably concluded (based upon advice of counsel to the Indemnified Party) that there may be legal defenses available to it or other Indemnified Parties that are different from or in addition to those available to the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, or that a conflict or potential conflict exists (based upon advice of counsel to the Indemnified Party) between the Indemnified Party and the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, that makes it impossible or inadvisable for counsel to the Indemnifying Party to conduct the defense of both the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, and the Indemnified Party (in which case the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, will not have the right to direct the defense of such action on behalf of the Indemnified Party), or (iii) the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, has not in fact employed counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party to assume the defense of such action within a reasonable time after receiving notice of the action, suit or proceeding, in each of which cases the reasonable fees, disbursements and other charges of such counsel will be at the expense of the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable; provided, further, that in no event shall the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, be required to pay fees and expenses for more than one firm of attorneys representing Indemnified Parties unless the defense of one Indemnified Party is unique from that of another Indemnified Party subject to the same claim or action. Any failure or delay by an Indemnified Party to give the notice referred to in this paragraph shall not affect such Indemnified Party’s right to be indemnified hereunder, except to the extent that such failure or delay causes actual harm to the Company or Alexander Capital, as applicable, or prejudices its ability to defend such action, suit or proceeding on behalf of such Indemnified Party.
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If the indemnification provided for in this Agreement is for any reason held unenforceable by an Indemnified Party, the Company agrees to contribute to the losses, claims, damages and liabilities for which such indemnification is held unenforceable (i) in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits to the Company, on the one hand, and Alexander Capital on the other hand, of the Offering as contemplated whether or not the Offering is consummated or, (ii) if (but only if) the allocation provided for in clause (i) is for any reason unenforceable, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to in clause (i) but also the relative fault of the Company, on the one hand and Alexander Capital, on the other hand, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The Company agrees that for the purposes of this paragraph the relative benefits to the Company and Alexander Capital of the Offering as contemplated shall be deemed to be in the same proportion that the total value received or contemplated to be received by the Company or its shareholders, as the case may be, as a result of or in connection with the Offering bear to the fees paid or to be paid to Alexander Capital under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company expressly agrees that Alexander Capital shall not be required to contribute any amount in excess of the amount by which fees paid to Alexander Capital hereunder (excluding reimbursable expenses), exceeds the amount of any damages which Alexander Capital has otherwise been required to pay.
The Company agrees that without the prior written consent of Alexander Capital, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, it will not settle, compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment in any pending or threatened claim, action or proceeding in respect of which indemnification could be sought under the indemnification provisions of this Agreement (in which Alexander Capital or any other Indemnified Party is an actual or potential party to such claim, action or proceeding), unless such settlement, compromise or consent includes an unconditional release of each Indemnified Party from all liability arising out of such claim, action or proceeding.
In the event that an Indemnified Party is requested or required to appear as a witness in any action brought by or on behalf of or against the Company in which such Indemnified Party is not named as a defendant, the Company agrees to promptly reimburse Alexander Capital on a monthly basis for all expenses incurred by it in connection with such Indemnified Party’s appearing and preparing to appear as such a witness, including, without limitation, the reasonable fees and disbursements of its legal counsel.
If multiple claims are brought with respect to at least one of which indemnification is permitted under applicable law and provided for under this Agreement, the Company agrees that any judgment or arbitration award shall be conclusively deemed to be based on claims as to which indemnification is permitted and provided for, except to the extent the judgment or arbitrate award expressly states that it, or any portion thereof, is based solely on a claim as to which indemnification is not available.
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APPENDIX II
INFORMATION TO BE SUPPLIED; CONFIDENTIALITY.
Capitalized terms used in this Appendix shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Agreement to which this Appendix is attached.
In connection with the activities of Alexander Capital on behalf of the Company as set forth in the engagement agreement to which this Appendix is attached (the “Agreement”), the Company will furnish Alexander Capital with all financial and other information regarding the Company that Alexander Capital and the Company reasonably believes appropriate to its engagement (all such information so furnished by the Company, whether furnished before or after the date of this Agreement, being referred to, collectively with the Placement Materials, as the “Confidential Information”). The Company will provide Alexander Capital with access to the officers, directors, employees, independent accountants, legal counsel, and other advisors and consultants of the Company. The Company recognizes and agrees that Alexander Capital (i) will use and rely primarily on the Confidential Information and information available from generally recognized public sources in performing the services contemplated by this Agreement without independently verifying the Confidential Information or such other information, (ii) does not assume responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the Confidential Information or such other information, and (iii) will not make an appraisal of any assets or liabilities owned or controlled by the Company or its market competitors.
Alexander Capital will maintain the confidentiality of the Confidential Information during the Term of this Agreement and following the termination or expiration of the Term and, unless and until such information shall have been made publicly available by the Company or by others without breach of a confidentiality agreement, shall disclose the Confidential Information only to its officers, employees, legal counsel, and authorized representatives, as authorized by the Company or as required by law or by order of a governmental authority or court of competent jurisdiction. In the event that Alexander Capital is legally required to make disclosure of any of the Confidential Information, Alexander Capital will: (i) give prompt notice to the Company prior to such disclosure, to the extent that Alexander Capital can practically do so, (ii) reasonably assist the Company at the Company’s cost in seeking a protective order or other relief from the disclosure of the Confidential Information and (iii) if compelled to disclose Confidential Information, limit such disclosure to only those matters which it is compelled to disclose. So long as Alexander Capital identifies to the Company which portion of the Confidential Information will be made public to the Introduced Investors before disclosing such portion of the Confidential Information to the Introduced Investors and gives the Company a reasonable opportunity to object to such disclosure, Alexander Capital will not be in breach of its confidentiality obligations hereunder. Alexander Capital will not disclose any Confidential Information publicly through its technology platform that the Company does not desire to make public.
The term “Confidential Information” does not include information which (i) is or becomes generally available to the public other than as a result of an unauthorized disclosure thereof by Alexander Capital or any Investor; (ii) was available on a non-confidential basis prior to its disclosure; or (iii) becomes available on a non-confidential basis from a third-party source who is not known to be under a confidentiality obligation.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Alexander Capital, as a FINRA Member Firm, shall be permitted to retain one copy of any Confidential Information provided hereunder to the extent required by its compliance procedures and may disclose such Confidential Information to representatives of FINRA or the SEC or similar state regulatory agencies, to the extent required by applicable rules and regulations of such regulatory bodies, without prior notice to the Company.
Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to limit the ability of Alexander Capital or its respective affiliates to pursue, investigate, analyze, invest in, or engage in investment banking, financial advisory or any other business relationship with entities other than the Company, notwithstanding that such entities may be engaged in a business which is similar to or competitive with the business of the Company, and notwithstanding that such entities may have actual or potential operations, products, services, plans, ideas, customers or supplies similar or identical to the Company’s, or may have been identified by the Company as potential merger or acquisition targets or potential candidates for some other business combination, cooperation or relationship. The Company expressly acknowledges and agrees that it does not claim any proprietary interest in the identity of any other entity in its industry or otherwise, and that the identity of any such entity is not Confidential Information for purposes hereof.
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Exhibit 6.5
Benjamin
Securities, Inc.
MEMBERSHIP AGREEMENT
CRD No. 7754
FINRA grants the application of Benjamin Securities, Inc. (the “Firm”) to expand its business, contingent upon the execution of this Membership Agreement (“Agreement”) and its submission to the FINRA Membership Application Program Group, via email, by no later than June 17, 2022
This Agreement shall remain in effect and bind the Firm and all of its successors to ownership or control unless this Agreement is changed, removed, or modified pursuant to applicable FINRA Rules.
A. Undertakings
In connection with the granting of its application for continuance in membership, the Firm undertakes to: (1) abide by any restriction specified in Section C below; (2) obtain the prior written approval of FINRA pursuant to FINRA Rule 1017 before removing or modifying any restrictions imposed or before effecting a material change in business operations; and (3) file a written notice and application with FINRA at least 30 days prior to effecting a change in ownership or control pursuant to Rule 1017.
B. Business Activities
The activities in which the Firm may engage are based on its business plan, any additional information provided during or subsequent to the membership application process and such other activities as may be permissible pursuant to the FINRA Membership Rules. The Firm represents that it will:
(1) | Maintain a minimum net capital requirement of $100,000 pursuant to SEA Rule 15c3-1(a)(2)(iii)(B) (the Net Capital Rule). |
(2) | Operate pursuant to SEC Rule 15c3-3(k)(2)(ii) (the Customer Protection Rule), clearing all transactions on a fully-disclosed basis through its clearing firm. The Firm will not hold customer funds or safekeep customer securities. |
And
The Firm will not claim an exemption from SEA Rule 15c3-3, in reliance on footnote 74 to SEC Release 34-70073, and as discussed in Q&A 8 of the related FAQ issued by SEC staff. The Firm has represented that it does not and will not, (1) directly or indirectly receive, hold, or otherwise owe funds or securities for or to customers, (2) does not and will not carry accounts of or for customers and (3) does not and will not carry PAB accounts. The firm’s business activities are, and will remain as described below.
Investor protection. Market integrity. | Matter No. | One World Financial Center | t 212 858-4000 |
20210732031 | 200 Liberty Street | f 212-858-4189 | |
New York, NY 10281 | www.finra.org |
(3) | Engage in the following types of business: |
A. | Trading securities for own account; |
B. | Broker retailing corporate equity securities; |
C. | Non-exchange member arranging for transactions in listed securities by an exchange member; |
D. | Broker selling corporate debt securities; |
E. | Firm Commitment Underwriter (can also act as a Selling Group Participant or a Best Efforts Underwriter); |
F. | Mutual fund retailer on an application basis; |
G. | Broker selling variable life insurance or annuities; |
H. | U.S. government securities broker; |
I. | Municipal securities broker; |
J. | Put and call broker; |
K. | Private placement of securities (best efforts basis only); and |
L. | Investment advisory services |
(4) | Employ sixteen (16) Associated Persons (registered and unregistered) who have direct contact with customers in the conduct of the Firm’s securities sales, trading and investment banking activities, including the immediate supervisors of such persons. |
(5) | Operate one office, which is the main office. |
C. Restrictions
None
D. Waiver/Exemption
None
E. Notifications
The Firm will promptly notify FINRA if:
(1) | the Firm changes its: (a) clearing entity, service bureau, or method of clearance; and/or (b) method of bookkeeping or recordkeeping (e.g., computer to manual, or utilizing an outside computer service); or |
(2) | the Firm has effected any significant change in its key personnel, including but not limited to, change or loss of the General Securities Principal, Chief Compliance Officer, and/or Financial and Operations Principal. |
Investor protection. Market integrity. | Matter No. | One World Financial Center | t 212 858-4000 |
20210732031 | 200 Liberty Street | f 212-858-4189 | |
New York, NY 10281 | www.finra.org |
2
F. Certification
Pursuant to Article IV, Section 1, of FINRA By-Laws, the Firm agrees:
(1) | to comply with the federal securities laws, the rules and regulations thereunder, the rules of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board and the Treasury Department, the By-Laws of FINRA and all rulings, orders, directions, and decisions issued and sanctions imposed under FINRA Rules; |
(2) | to pay such dues, assessments, and other charges in the manner and amount as from time to time shall be fixed pursuant to FINRA By-Laws, Schedules to FINRA By-Laws, and FINRA Rules; and |
(3) | that this Agreement has been executed on behalf of, and with the authority of the Firm. The undersigned and the Firm represent that the information and statements contained within the application and other information filed are current, true, and complete. The undersigned and the Firm further represent that, to the extent any information previously submitted is not amended, such information is currently accurate and complete and agree that the information contained in Form BD will be kept current and accurate by properly amending Form BD as changes occur. |
Any activity that does not conform to the provisions set forth in this Agreement may form the basis for disciplinary action by FINRA against the Firm, its owners, or Associated Persons.
Signature: | ||
/s/ William Baker | 6/14/22 | |
William Baker, President | Date |
Investor protection. Market integrity. | Matter No. | One World Financial Center | t 212 858-4000 |
20210732031 | 200 Liberty Street | f 212-858-4189 | |
New York, NY 10281 | www.finra.org |
3
Exhibit 6.6
Fully Disclosed Clearing Agreement
This agreement (the “Agreement”) is made between RBC Correspondent Services, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company (“Clearing Broker”), and the party signing below (“Correspondent”), having the form of organization set forth below.
Recitals
WHEREAS, Correspondent desires that Clearing Broker shall provide certain services (the “Services”) to Correspondent with respect to accounts of customers (individually, a “Customer”, collectively, the “Customers”) and proprietary accounts (collectively, “Accounts”) introduced to Clearing Broker by Correspondent, which include: (i) executing, clearing and settling securities transactions (“Transactions”) on behalf of Correspondent; (ii) preparing and delivering confirmations of Transactions and periodic Account statements; (iii) extending credit (“Margin”) to Accounts; (iv) performing cashiering functions, including, but not limited to, receiving and delivering checks, funds and securities and collecting commissions and other fees of Correspondent; (v) safeguarding Account funds and securities; and (vi) maintaining books and records with respect to the Accounts;
WHEREAS, the parties are subject to certain local, state and Federal laws and regulations, including those relating to securities markets and transactions, and the customs and usages, rules, by-laws, and constitutions of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), other securities exchanges (individually, an “Exchange”, collectively, the “Exchanges”), any clearing agencies, or the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (collectively, the “Applicable Rules”);
WHEREAS, the word “securities” as used within this agreement shall have the same meaning and be defined in the same manner as provided by Section 3(a)(10) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”); and
WHEREAS, Correspondent is a securities broker dealer and desires to utilize the Services as provided in this Agreement in accordance with the Applicable Rules.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter set forth and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, Clearing Broker and Correspondent hereby covenant and agree as follows:
Section 1. General Provisions
1.1 Incorporation of Recitals. The above recitals are hereby incorporated as an integral part of this Agreement as if fully set forth herein.
1.2 No Agency or Partnership Created. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be deemed to create a partnership, joint venture or agency relationship between Clearing Broker and Correspondent.
1.3 Allocation of Responsibility. As between Clearing Broker and Correspondent, Correspondent shall be responsible for the relationship with each Customer. Clearing Broker’s function is limited to the provision to Correspondent of the Services as described herein. Unless specifically allocated to Clearing Broker, Correspondent shall be responsible for all duties and functions with respect to Customers and concerning any Accounts.
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Section 2. Services to be Performed by Clearing Broker
2.1 Services. The Services shall include the following:
2.1.1 Opening of Accounts. Clearing Broker shall establish Accounts for Customers introduced by Correspondent, upon receipt from Correspondent of the information described in Section 3.1. Upon receipt of information from Correspondent changing or correcting any information with respect to the Account, Clearing Broker will make such change or correction.
2.1.2 Execution. Clearing Broker shall execute Transactions in accordance with orders and instructions received from Correspondent pursuant to Section 3.2 below. If Correspondent gives specific instructions with respect to routing of Transactions, the Clearing Broker will follow those instructions. If Correspondent does not give such specific instructions with respect to the routing of Transactions, the Clearing Broker may (a) execute the order itself or with an affiliate, (b) execute the order with another brokerage firm that is a market maker in the security involved, or (c) execute the order through a primary or regional exchange, in each case in accordance with all Applicable Rules. In return for routing an order to a specific market, the Clearing Broker may receive cash payment, return order flow or favorable adjustments on trade errors. Any remuneration received by the Clearing Broker will be considered a reduction of its execution costs and will not accrue to Accounts. The Clearing Broker will comply with all Applicable Rules concerning disclosure to Customers regarding order routing and payment for order flow. In the event of any execution errors, the party responsible for such error shall indemnify the other party in accordance with the provisions of Section 9.
2.1.3 Confirmations. Except as may otherwise be agreed, Clearing Broker shall generate and mail directly to Customers in accordance with instructions received and accepted from Correspondent confirmations with respect to all Transactions. Clearing Broker shall make available to Correspondent copies of all such confirmations and any other written communications sent to and received from a Customer. Correspondent understands and agrees that all such confirmations shall indicate that the Account is introduced to Clearing Broker by Correspondent.
2.1.4 Books and Records. Clearing Broker shall prepare and maintain books and records, including stock records, with respect to Transactions and Accounts as required by the Applicable Rules. Clearing Broker shall also maintain on behalf of Correspondent such additional books, records, and other documents or information as Correspondent shall request and Clearing Broker may agree. Clearing Broker shall upon request of Correspondent, provide Correspondent with access to and, at Correspondent’s expense, originals or copies of any such books, records, documents and information in the possession of Clearing Broker. On an annual basis within thirty (30) days of July 1 of each year, the Clearing Broker shall provide to Correspondent’s Chief Executive Officer and Compliance Officer a list of reports offered to Correspondent, and shall specify those reports actually requested by, or supplied to, Correspondent as of the report date. Clearing Broker shall file a copy of such notice with Correspondent’s designated examining authority.
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2.1.5 Cashiering. Clearing Broker shall perform cashiering functions for Correspondent. Said functions may include the receipt and deposit by Correspondent to bank accounts established by and for the benefit of Clearing Broker of customer funds, checks and cash, and the receipt by Correspondent of securities sold for the Accounts as well as certain administrative functions relating thereto. All customer funds and securities shall be promptly forwarded by Correspondent to Clearing Broker. Clearing Broker shall be responsible for performing administrative and bookkeeping functions with respect to deposits, fees and charges in the Accounts. Clearing Broker shall not be responsible for any securities or funds until properly delivered to Clearing Broker pursuant to Clearing Broker’s requirements.
2.1.6 Margin. With respect to any Account in which Margin is requested to be extended, Clearing Broker shall obtain from Correspondent an agreement executed by the Customer in form and substance satisfactory to Clearing Broker (the “Margin Agreement”). All Transactions shall be considered cash transactions until such time as Clearing Broker has received the applicable executed Margin Agreements. Clearing Broker shall generate and make all Margin maintenance calls in accordance with the Applicable Rules. Clearing Broker shall have sole discretion with respect to the amount of Margin maintained by any Account, and may, in its sole discretion, impose higher Margin requirements than those imposed by the Applicable Rules. Clearing Broker, as creditor, is responsible for compliance with Regulation T, 12 CFR, part 220, the Federal Margin Regulations promulgated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Board”), any interpretive ruling issued by the Board, and any other applicable Margin and maintenance requirements of the Applicable Rules with respect to Margin Accounts. As provided in Section 3.5 herein, Correspondent is responsible for obtaining all cash or securities required to be deposited in the Accounts, whether to satisfy a debit balance or other liability arising in an Account (individually and collectively, the “Account Debits”) or otherwise. Notwithstanding the above, Clearing Broker may, at any time, and without liability or obligation to do so (or to do so again in the future), contact any Customer or collect funds or securities from any Customer with respect to any Account Debit with or without prior notice to Correspondent. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall relieve Customer from his/her obligation to pay to Clearing Broker all amounts due in his/her Account.
2.1.7 Account Transfers. Pursuant to written notification executed by a Customer and forwarded by Correspondent to Clearing Broker, any Customer may choose to transfer its Account to another broker dealer. Upon receipt of such notice, Clearing Broker shall have exclusive responsibility for compliance with Rule 412 of the NYSE and any similar Applicable Rule. Clearing Broker may accept and process directions received directly from the Customer with respect to the transfer of the Account to another broker dealer; Clearing Broker may refuse to accept any other orders or instructions received directly from a Customer except those received on behalf of Customer from Correspondent.
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2.1.8 Correspondent and Customer Service. Clearing Broker shall be responsible for receiving and responding to all inquiries from Correspondent regarding the Accounts and all confirmations and statements relating to the Accounts. Except as otherwise required by the Applicable Rules, all such inquiries should initially be directed to Clearing Broker’s Customer Service Department.
2.1.9 Fully Disclosed Basis. Clearing Broker shall carry the Accounts on a fully disclosed basis. Clearing Broker shall be responsible for the content of all disclosures to Customers required by FINRA Rule 4311 and for providing prompt notification to Customers of any material change in the allocation between Clearing Broker and Correspondent of the responsibilities detailed in such initial disclosure.
2.1.10 Clearance and Settlement of Trades. Clearing Broker shall clear and settle Transactions in the Accounts in accordance with the Applicable Rules. Clearing Broker shall receive from Correspondent or directly from Customer any securities sold and will deliver such securities in accordance with the Applicable Rules.
2.1.11 Statements. Clearing Broker shall prepare and mail directly to Customers in accordance with instructions received and accepted from Correspondent periodic statements for the Accounts in accordance with the Applicable Rules. All such statements shall indicate that the Account is introduced by Correspondent and carried by Clearing Broker. Each such statement shall contain the name and telephone number of the Customer Service Department at Clearing Broker that Customers can contact with questions regarding the Account and shall disclose that all funds and securities of Customers are in the custody of Clearing Broker and not of Correspondent.
2.1.12 Safekeeping. Clearing Broker shall hold in custody and safe-keeping all securities and payments received for the Accounts, collect and disburse dividends and other distributions with respect to securities within the Accounts and process in accordance with any instructions received from Correspondent exchange offers, rights offerings, warrants, tender offers, redemptions or proxy requests received with respect to securities in the Accounts.
2.1.13 Exception Reports. To the extent provided by Applicable Rules, at the commencement of this Agreement and annually thereafter, Clearing Broker shall furnish to Correspondent a list of reports that may assist Correspondent, in Correspondent’s sole opinion, in supervising and monitoring Accounts, including, but not limited to, exception reports. Correspondent shall promptly notify Clearing Broker as to which of such reports should be furnished to Correspondent. It is understood that Clearing Broker shall not be responsible for supervising Correspondent’s activities or compliance with Applicable Rules.
2.1.14 Customer Complaints. To the extent provided by Applicable Rules, Clearing Broker shall promptly furnish to Correspondent and Correspondent’s designated examining authority any written complaint from a Customer with respect to Correspondent’s responsibilities and functions hereunder received by Clearing Broker. Clearing Broker shall notify such Customer in writing that (i) Clearing Broker received such complaint and furnished same to Correspondent for response and to Correspondent’s designated examining authority, and (ii) Customer has the right, at Customer’s discretion, to transfer Customer’s Account to another broker-dealer.
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2.1.15 Access to Electronic Order Entry Devices. To the extent that Clearing Broker provides Correspondent with electronic order entry devices to route orders to the NYSE, Clearing Broker shall assure itself that Correspondent employs adequate written control procedures to minimize the potential for errors.
2.1.16 Reporting Order Information (OATS). Attached hereto as Exhibit A is a Supplement to Fully Disclosed Clearing Agreement for Order Audit Trail System (“OATS”). The option selected by the Correspondent on the Supplement will determine the method of OATS reporting for Correspondent. If no selection is made, the Correspondent will be deemed to have selected Option “C”, and have acknowledged and agreed that (i) Correspondent fully and completely understands its responsibilities under OATS and is not relying on Clearing Broker to satisfy any of Correspondent’s OATS obligations, and (ii) Clearing Broker is not responsible for, and will not undertake, Correspondent’s OATS obligations, including, without limitation, the submission of information regarding orders in NASDAQ Securities placed and entered into by Correspondent.
2.2 Right to Subcontract. In performing the Services, Clearing Broker may contract with third party vendors to provide ancillary or support services (the “Vendors”). With respect to certain Services designated by Clearing Broker, Correspondent shall contract directly with Vendors identified by Clearing Broker or as may be selected by Correspondent and approved by Clearing Broker. Clearing Broker shall have no liability for the failure to perform, errors, omissions or the delay, inadequacy or insufficiency of performance by any Vendor for services for which Correspondent has directly contracted but will cooperate with Correspondent in asserting such rights as Correspondent may have pursuant to contracts with the Vendors.
2.3 Limitations and Restrictions.
2.3.1 Clearing Broker expressly reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to limit and restrict any of the Services including, without limitation, by rejecting any order or transaction for any Account, by refusing to execute, clear or settle any Transaction, to carry or to continue to carry any Account, or to provide Margin for any Account.
2.3.2 Clearing Broker may liquidate any and all Transactions or collateral held in an Account in the following circumstances: (i) upon the request of Correspondent; (ii) upon the death, incapacity, insolvency, or bankruptcy of Customer; (iii) upon a Customer’s failure to honor any obligations with respect to Transactions, the Account or Margin; (iv) in the event failure to do so would result in a violation of the Applicable Rules; or (v) Clearing Broker in its sole discretion determines to do so.
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2.3.3 Unless otherwise expressly agreed to in a writing signed by both parties, Clearing Broker shall not be responsible for providing any of the following services: (i) accounting, bookkeeping or record keeping, cashiering or other services with respect to commodity transactions or other transactions not involving securities; (ii) preparation of Correspondent’s payroll records, financial statements or any analysis thereof; (iii) preparation or issuance of checks in payment of Correspondent’s expenses, other than expenses incurred by Clearing Broker on behalf of Correspondent; (iv) payment of commissions, salaries or other remittances to Correspondent’s salespersons or other employees or agents; (v) preparation or filing of any of Correspondent’s reports to the SEC or any state securities commission or any Exchange, provided, however, that Clearing Broker will, at the request of Correspondent, furnish Correspondent with any necessary information contained in records kept by Clearing Broker and not otherwise available to Correspondent for use in making such reports; (vi) delivery of prospectuses or other disclosure documents required pursuant to Applicable Rules other than disclosures required to be made pursuant to NYSE Rule 382, or any similar rule of any Exchange, or SEC Rule 10b-16, (vii) making and maintaining reports and records required by the Currency and Foreign Transactions Reporting Act of 1970, as amended, and the regulations thereunder, or any other similar provisions within the Applicable Rules; (viii) verification of address changes of Customers; and (ix) any other function, task or service not specifically allocated to it in this Agreement.
2.3.4 Solely for purposes of the Securities Investor Protection Act of 1970 and the SEC’s financial responsibility rules, Customers are deemed customers of Clearing Broker and not of Correspondent.
2.3.5 All Services to be performed by Clearing Broker pursuant to this Agreement shall be subject to the policies and procedures of Clearing Broker as such policies and procedures may be amended or updated from time to time and made available to Correspondent on Clearing Broker’s InfoWorkS website or any successor intranet site.
Section 3. Functions and Obligations of Correspondent
Correspondent shall perform the following functions and obligations:
3.1 Opening and Approving of Accounts. Correspondent shall open and approve an Account for each Customer only upon obtaining, verifying and retaining current and correct documentation containing the financial and personal information and agreements for each Account (“Account Documents”) required by the Applicable Rules. Correspondent shall introduce the Accounts for acceptance by Clearing Broker by furnishing to Clearing Broker the basic information required to open the account (including, without limitation, the name, address, tax identification number, standing instructions, representative number and such other information or agreements as Clearing Broker may deem necessary to perform the Services) and such Account Documents as Clearing Broker may require. Correspondent shall promptly furnish to Clearing Broker any changes or corrections to the Account information of Account Documents necessary to keep such information and Account Documents current and correct.
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3.2 Execution of Trades, Confirmations and Periodic Statements. Correspondent may forward Customer orders and instructions for Transactions to Clearing Broker for execution pursuant to Section 2.1.2. If Correspondent executes Transactions “away” from the Clearing Broker, or if the Correspondent provides specific instructions to the Clearing Broker with respect to order routing, Correspondent will comply with and be responsible for all Applicable Rules concerning best execution and disclosure to Customers of order routing or payment for order flow. Correspondent shall provide Clearing Broker with all necessary information to generate and mail directly to Customers confirmations with respect to any Transactions. Correspondent understands and agrees that all confirmations shall indicate that the Account is carried, and Transactions are cleared and settled, by Clearing Broker. It is understood that Clearing Broker shall accept, without any inquiry or investigation, all directions from Correspondent, as agent of each Customer, regarding Transactions in Accounts, and any other instructions from Correspondent, as agent of each Customer, concerning Accounts or the property therein, including the transfer of funds to third parties.
3.3 Disclosure to Customers. Correspondent shall provide to the Customers notices, disclosure documents and prospectuses required pursuant to the Applicable Rules.
3.4 Supervision of Accounts. Correspondent acknowledges that Clearing Broker’s relationship with Correspondent and with Customers shall be strictly limited to the provision of the Services hereunder and that Clearing Broker shall only perform and be responsible for such Services. Correspondent shall have the exclusive responsibility for ascertaining the investment objective of each Customer, “knowing the Customer,” the suitability of Transactions effected for Customers, and Clearing Broker shall have no such responsibility with respect thereto. Correspondent shall have the exclusive responsibility for compliance with Rule 405 of the NYSE and any similar rule of any other Exchange in which Correspondent is a member or any similar rule of FINRA with respect to each Account and every order, Transaction or instruction. Correspondent has established and maintains, and shall have exclusive responsibility for adherence to, compliance and supervisory procedures adequate to assure compliance by Correspondent, its agents, servants and employees with the Applicable Rules and this Agreement, which procedures for supervision include provisions with respect to: (i) the opening, approving and monitoring of Accounts including the suitability of Transactions; (ii) the reasonable basis for recommendations made and investment advice and investment strategies provided to Customers; (iii) the orders and execution of orders for Transactions in compliance with Customer instructions; (iv) the frequency of trading in the Accounts, whether or not such Transactions are instituted by Correspondent, its partners, officers, employees or any registered investment adviser; (v) discretionary Accounts; (vi) restricted Accounts as defined by the Applicable Rules; (vii) compliance with restricted or control stock requirements of the Applicable Rules; (viii) securing and transmitting orders in a form and format as specified by Clearing Broker; and (ix) handling of accounts for employees or officers of a member organization, self-regulatory organization, or other financial institutions.
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3.5 Customer Payments. While each Customer is directly responsible to the Clearing Broker with respect to payment for all securities purchased, and for the delivery of all securities sold, for his or her Account, the Correspondent shall be responsible for obtaining from each Customer such funds or securities as are required to be deposited or maintained in Accounts. Correspondent shall be responsible to the Clearing Broker for payment for securities purchased in the Accounts until actual and complete payment therefor has been made. Correspondent shall be responsible to Clearing Broker for delivery of securities in the Accounts until acceptable deliveries of such securities have been completed. If Correspondent maintains minimum net capital of less than $250,000, it shall direct Customers to make all payments for Transactions directly to Clearing Broker. If Correspondent maintains minimum net capital of less than $50,000, Correspondent shall also direct Customers to deliver all securities directly to Clearing Broker for Transactions within the Account and shall notify Customers that Correspondent is prohibited from receiving funds (other than checks made payable to third parties, including Clearing Broker) or securities. Correspondent shall deposit in bank accounts established for the benefit of Clearing Broker prior to the close of business on the day of receipt all funds and checks received by Correspondent with respect to any Account as specified by Clearing Broker to enable Clearing Broker promptly and properly to record such remittances and receipts in the Account. Correspondent shall send all securities received by it to Clearing Broker by overnight delivery service on the day of receipt, or as specified by Clearing Broker. Correspondent is responsible for the collection of the initial Margin required pursuant to the Applicable Rules to support each Margin transaction for an Account, the amount of any Margin maintenance requirement pursuant to the Applicable Rules and the timely payment of all Account Debits, interest and other charges incurred in an Account. Correspondent is also responsible to Clearing Broker for the collection of funds or securities required to settle any Transactions. If requested by Clearing Broker, Correspondent shall promptly transmit to Customers all requests for initial and maintenance Margin and for funds or securities to settle Transactions or pay Account Debits. Correspondent shall be liable for any loss, liability, damage, cost or expense (including but not otherwise limited to fees and expenses of legal counsel) incurred or sustained by Correspondent or Clearing Broker, or both, as a result of the failure of any Customer to timely make payments or deposits of securities to satisfy Account Debits, settle Transactions or to comply with any Margin calls or any term or provision of a margin agreement with Clearing Broker, and/or consent to loan and hypothecation of securities. In its sole discretion, at any time, Correspondent may effect a “buy-in” or “sell-out” of a Transaction or liquidate an Account Debit and collect from the Customer any deficiency resulting from the “buy-in” or “sell-out” or liquidation.
3.6 Waiver of Procedures.
3.6.1 Subject to the Applicable Rules, Correspondent may request Clearing Broker to alter or waive compliance with any one or more of Clearing Broker’s practices or policies with respect to one or more Accounts or Transactions. Upon making a request for waiver, Correspondent undertakes to reimburse, indemnify and hold harmless Clearing Broker from any loss of any kind that may result from such waiver and the accommodation of the request by Clearing Broker.
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3.6.2 Correspondent may request that Clearing Broker extend, or continue to extend, credit to an Account in excess of the credit that Clearing Broker would otherwise be willing to extend. In connection with such an extension of credit, Correspondent shall deposit to the Account established solely for this purpose and maintained by Correspondent at Clearing Broker (the “Margin Collateral Account”) such Acceptable Securities or Cash as Clearing Broker may request in an amount determined by Clearing Broker from time to time in order to secure such extension of credit. “Cash” means immediately available United States dollars; and “Acceptable Securities” means: (1) any security which is issued or fully guaranteed as to principal and interest by the United States of America; and (2) such other securities acceptable to Clearing Broker in its sole discretion.
In the event any such deposit into the Margin Collateral Account is not timely made, Clearing Broker may in its sole discretion and regardless of whether the Margin Collateral Account is then in compliance with applicable margin requirements, pledge, re-pledge, hypothecate or re-hypothecate without prior notice any or all securities which Clearing Broker may hold in an account of the Correspondent at Clearing Broker (either individually or jointly with others), separately or in common with other securities or any other property, for the sum then due or for a greater or lesser sum and without retaining in its possession and control for delivery a like amount of similar securities; sell out any or all securities which Clearing Broker may hold for such Account or in an Account of the Correspondent at Clearing Broker (either individually or jointly with others), or buy in any or all securities required to make delivery; or apply to an appropriate committee of any national securities exchange or association for an extension of the time within which payment or delivery is due. Any sale, purchase or cancellation authorization hereunder may be made, in Clearing Broker’s sole discretion, on an exchange or other market where such business is then usually transacted, or at public auction, or at a private sale without advertising the same and without any notice, prior tender, demand or call; and Clearing Broker may purchase the whole or part of such securities free from any right of redemption and the Account and the Correspondent shall remain liable for any deficiency. The election as to whether to enforce the foregoing provisions against either the Account or the Correspondent, or the allocation between such Accounts, is at Clearing Broker’s sole discretion, and any decision to act or not to act will not limit or supersede Clearing Broker’s rights under section 9 of this Agreement.
3.7 Validity of Documents, Instructions, Signatures and Authority of Information. Correspondent represents, warrants and agrees that: (i) all Accounts, orders, Transactions, instructions, Margin and Account Debits established, entered, incurred or maintained will have been duly and validly authorized by Customer and will be legally binding and enforceable according to their terms against the Customer; (ii) all securities delivered by a Customer or Correspondent to Clearing Broker are genuine, will be in good delivery form, free of liens, claims and encumbrances and have not been reported lost, missing or stolen; and (iii) all documents delivered to Clearing Broker will be genuine and duly executed by the parties named therein including without limitation, any documents purported to be signed by Customers or any other third parties that are delivered by or through Correspondent. By delivering to Clearing Broker any document or instruction purported to be authorized or signed by a Customer or Correspondent, including, without limitation any instruction or document delivered electronically, Correspondent represents that the signature and/or instruction is the genuine signature or instruction of a party authorized to act on behalf of the Customer, and Correspondent agrees that it will be responsible for any loss in the event such signature or instruction is not valid.
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3.8 Customer Correspondence. All Customer correspondence shall be reviewed, responded to and resolved by Correspondent; provided, however, that to the extent any Customer correspondence contains any inquiry or complaint relating to Services provided by Clearing Broker, Correspondent shall promptly provide Clearing Broker with copies of the correspondence. Clearing Broker shall cooperate with Correspondent by providing such information and copies of documents and records as are reasonably necessary for Correspondent to respond to such Customer.
3.9 Negotiable Instruments. In the event that the Services provided herein shall allow Correspondent to issue to Customers negotiable instruments such as drafts or checks, for which Clearing Broker is the drawer or maker, Correspondent hereby represents that it currently has, and covenants that it shall maintain and shall enforce, supervisory procedures satisfactory to Clearing Broker with respect to the issuance of such instruments. Any issuance of negotiable instruments by Correspondent hereunder shall be in compliance with SEA Rule 15c3-3.
3.10 DVP/RVP and Prime Brokerage Transactions.
3.10.1 Correspondent agrees that all Customers who engage in delivery versus payment (“DVP”) or receipt versus payment (“RVP”) transactions (and their agents) will utilize the facilities of a securities repository for the confirmation, acknowledgment, and book entry settlement of all depository eligible transactions, subject to the exceptions of Rule 387 of the NYSE with respect to all DVP/RVP transactions, except for the delivery of confirmations.
3.10.2 Correspondent shall not engage in any prime brokerage transactions without the prior approval of Clearing Broker.
3.10.3 Correspondent agrees that all transactions where Correspondent acts as an executing broker for Accounts that utilize a prime broker (“Prime Brokerage Customers”), shall be conducted in accordance with the requirements of the SEC No-Action Letter, dated January 25, 1994 (the “SEC No-Action Letter”).
3.10.4 Correspondent shall notify Clearing Broker with respect to each Prime Brokerage Customer for which Correspondent intends to act as an executing broker and Correspondent shall be solely responsible for conducting its own credit review with respect to such Prime Brokerage Customer. Correspondent shall promptly notify Clearing Broker, but in no event later than 3:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time of trade date, in a mutually acceptable fashion, of such trades in sufficient detail for Clearing Broker to be able to report and transfer any trade executed by Correspondent on behalf of a Prime Brokerage Customer to the relevant prime broker. Correspondent understands and agrees that if the prime broker shall disaffirm or DK any trade executed by Correspondent on behalf of a Prime Brokerage Customer, Correspondent shall, if it has not already done so, open a margin Account for such Prime Brokerage Customer and shall transfer or deliver the trade to such margin Account for the risk and expense of Correspondent to the same extent as for any Account introduced by Correspondent pursuant to this Agreement. Correspondent understands and agrees that for certain Prime Brokerage Customers, RBC Capital Markets, LLC (“RBC CM”), may act as both Clearing Broker and prime broker (the “Prime Broker”). RBC CM as Prime Broker will not disaffirm or DK a transaction for Correspondent’s Prime Brokerage Customers but will notify Correspondent that a problem exists and, as permitted under the SEC No-Action Letter, that it is unable to settle the trade. RBC CM as Clearing Broker will request that Correspondent open a margin Account for such Prime Brokerage Customer and transfer or deliver the trade to such margin account for the risk and expense of Correspondent to the same extent as for any Account introduced by Correspondent pursuant to this Agreement.
3.10.5 Correspondent agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Clearing Broker and its controlling persons, officers, directors, agents, servants and employees from and against costs, losses, claims, liabilities, fines, penalties, damages and expenses (including reasonable attorney and accountant fees) arising out of or resulting from Correspondent’s activities as an executing broker.
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3.11 Underwriting; Syndicates. Correspondent shall provide to Clearing Broker a written list of securities as to which Correspondent intends to act as underwriter, or as to which Correspondent intends to enter into, or join, a syndicate (whether as part of the underwriting or selling group) relating to the issuance or placement of those securities. Clearing Broker shall have the right to limit or prohibit Correspondent’s underwriting or syndicate activities with respect to any security. Under no circumstances may Correspondent act as underwriter or join a syndicate without the prior written approval of Clearing Broker. Clearing Broker may impose certain conditions upon Correspondent’s serving as an underwriter, or its participation in any syndicate.
3.12 Marketmaking. Upon the execution of this Agreement, Correspondent shall provide to Clearing Broker a written list of all securities with respect to which Correspondent is a marketmaker. Correspondent shall give prior written notice of any proposed changes in its marketmaking activities. Correspondent shall provide Clearing Broker on a timely basis with information sufficient to ensure that any confirmations sent to Customers by Clearing Broker on Correspondent’s behalf contain correct information regarding Correspondent’s role in the transaction. Clearing Broker shall have the right to limit or prohibit Correspondent’s marketmaking activities with respect to any security.
3.13 Secondary Correspondents. Correspondent covenants that it shall not, without the prior written approval of Clearing Broker, enter into or execute any agreement with another broker dealer, including an affiliated broker-dealer (each, a “Secondary Broker-Dealer”), which would have the effect of extending to such Secondary Broker-Dealer any service or product provided by Clearing Broker to Correspondent. Correspondent further understands, acknowledges and agrees that (a) it bears sole responsibility for satisfying any additional or supplementary regulatory requirements relating entering into a relationship with the Secondary Broker-Dealer, including, without limitation, the obligation, if any, to obtain the prior approval of the Correspondent’s designated examining authority, the Secondary Broker-Dealer’s designated examining authority, or both, and (b) Clearing Broker may require that Correspondent accept additional responsibilities or obligations as a condition of its consent to allow such Secondary Broker-Dealer to receive such services and products through or with Correspondent, including, without limitation, that Correspondent guaranty the obligations of such Secondary Broker-Dealer, or that Correspondent increase the amount of the deposit required under section 6.2 of this Agreement. Correspondent shall maintain its proprietary and Customer accounts and the proprietary and Customer accounts of any Secondary Broker-Dealer in such a manner as to enable Clearing Broker and FINRA to specifically identify the proprietary and customer accounts belonging to Correspondent and each Secondary Broker-Dealer.
3.14 Use of “RBC Correspondent Services” Name. Each and every use by Correspondent of any of the names “RBC”, “RBC Correspondent Services”, or “RBC Capital Markets” or the name of any affiliated entity, or any abbreviation or acronym relating to or made up from any of these names, or any amended name based on or derived from any of these names, in any external communication from Correspondent, including, without limitation, any marketing materials, client communications, account documents, or usage in a proprietary or non-proprietary web-site or other Internet usage, shall be submitted to Clearing Broker prior to use for review and approval. Clearing Broker reserves the right to withhold its consent to any such usage, or to restrict or place conditions on such usage.
3.15 Amendments to Form BO. Correspondent shall provide Clearing Broker with at least one written copy of each amendment, modification or change to Correspondent’s Form BD at least (i) fifteen (15) days before its effective date or (ii) five (5) days prior to its submission to the SEC, whichever occurs earlier.
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3.16 Anti-Money Laundering Compliance.
3.16.1 Correspondent hereby acknowledges and agrees that it is obligated to and hereby represents and warrants that it now does and will continue to comply with anti-money laundering laws and regulations, including any future obligations that may be imposed on Correspondent by law or regulation, to know its customers, their source and use of funds, and to monitor for and identify suspicious activity. Correspondent acknowledges that these obligations include but are not limited to:
(a) Establishing and maintaining a compliance program, appropriately customized for Correspondent’s business, that satisfies FINRA Rule 3310 and all applicable U.S. anti-money laundering laws and regulations, including but not limited to: (i) implementing reasonably designed policies, procedures, and internal controls to achieve compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) and its implementing regulations; (ii) establishing and maintaining a Customer Identification Program (“CIP”) that complies with applicable law and regulations and ensuring that Correspondent will not do business with a client that does not satisfy Correspondent’s CIP; (iii) designating an AML compliance officer and providing notice to self regulatory organizations; (iv) monitoring for suspicious activity by Correspondent’s clients and promptly filing suspicious activity reports (“SARs”) where appropriate; (v) providing ongoing anti-money laundering training to appropriate personnel; (vi) implementing an independent testing program to evaluate the effectiveness of Correspondent’s anti-money laundering compliance program; and (vii) complying with all applicable anti-money laundering recordkeeping requirements, including, without limitation, Rule 17a-8 under the Exchange Act.
(b) Providing Clearing Broker a certification by Correspondent’s AML compliance officer, CEO or President (or other mutually agreed upon principal), annually and as requested by Clearing Broker in a form to be reasonably determined by Clearing Broker that Correspondent has complied with its AML requirements and that it has performed its AML duties under the Agreement.
(c) Disclosing to Clearing Broker information related to certain types of high-risk accounts, as described by AML rules or interpretations from time to time, and disclosing such accounts to Clearing Broker, clearly identifying the nature of the account in account records. Such high risk accounts may include foreign financial institutions and other accounts subject to special due diligence as described in Section 312 of the USA PATRIOT Act, or as otherwise requested by Clearing Broker.
(d) Closing all accounts for prohibited foreign shell banks, and obtaining and reviewing certifications/recertifications regarding accounts for foreign banks, to include appropriate representations concerning foreign shell banks and information concerning the foreign bank’s ownership and U.S. agent for service of process.
(e) Consulting and cooperating with Clearing Broker to satisfy anti-money laundering requirements, including but not limited to: (i) providing necessary information in response to Clearing Broker’s inquiries related to introduced Accounts; (ii) providing to Clearing Broker copies of foreign bank certifications/recertifications for each foreign bank introduced by the Correspondent; (iii) providing prompt notice to Clearing Broker of any circumstances requiring Correspondent to terminate an introduced Account due to anti money laundering reasons; and (iv) where Clearing Broker’s client screening process results in a match, Correspondent must promptly provide written confirmation either that the client was not a true match, or that appropriate government notification was given; provided, however, that it is understood that Correspondent has an obligation to comply with Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”) rules and regulations and may not rely on the results of Clearing Broker’s screening process.
(f) Submitting an annual notice to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”) concerning voluntary information sharing and complying with all requirements concerning the confidentiality of shared information, as permissible by law.
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(g) Conducting enhanced due diligence on Accounts established or maintained for foreign financial institutions and private banking accounts established or maintained for non-U.S. persons as required by Section 312 of the USA PATRIOT Act.
(h) Establishing and maintaining scanning procedures designed to comply with economic and trade sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
(i) Complying with special measures imposed by the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury applicable to jurisdictions and other financial institutions.
(j) Complying with requests made by FinCEN under Section 314(a) of the USA PATRIOT Act.
(k) Filing IRS Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (“FBAR”) to the extent required under applicable law.
(I) Complying with BSA Rule 31 CFR 103.33(g) (the “Travel Rule”) to the extent required of Correspondent by the Travel Rule and BSA guidance.
(m) Complying with all anti-money laundering provisions applicable to Correspondent under applicable laws, rules and regulations, including Section 311 of the BSA (special measures for jurisdictions, financial institutions, or international transactions of primary money laundering concern), Section 326 of the BSA (verification of identification), Section 352 of the BSA (anti-money laundering programs), and Section 356 of the BSA (reporting of suspicious activities).
(n) Filing, when required of Correspondent by Applicable Rules, all appropriate forms, including Forms CTR, CMIR and SAR SF.
3.16.2 Clearing Broker shall:
(a) Establish and maintain an appropriate compliance program that satisfies FINRA Rule 3310 and all applicable U.S. anti-money laundering laws and regulations, including but not limited to: (i) implementing reasonably designed policies, procedures, and internal controls to achieve compliance with the BSA and its implementing regulations; (ii) establishing and maintaining a CIP that complies with applicable law; (iii) designating an AML compliance officer and providing notice to self-regulatory organizations; (iv) providing ongoing anti money laundering training to appropriate Clearing Broker personnel; (v) implementing an independent testing program to evaluate the effectiveness of Clearing Broker’s anti-money laundering compliance program; (vi) monitoring for suspicious activity by Correspondent’s clients as required by applicable law and promptly filing SARs where appropriate; and (vii) complying with all applicable anti-money laundering recordkeeping requirements, including, without limitation, Rule 17a-8 under the Exchange Act.
(b) Consult and cooperate with Correspondent to satisfy anti-money laundering requirements, including but not limited to: (i) providing Correspondent, upon request and where permissible, with information possessed by Clearing Broker that Correspondent needs in order to file required reports; (ii) providing prompt notice, where permissible, to Correspondent of any circumstances requiring Clearing Broker to terminate an introduced Account due to anti-money laundering reasons; and (iii) providing, as agreed to by the parties, Correspondent access to certain AML tools, new account forms and/or templates, which may assist Correspondent in meeting its anti-money laundering obligations.
(c) Submit an annual notice to FinCEN concerning voluntary information sharing and comply with all requirements concerning the confidentiality of shared information, as permissible by law.
(d) Conduct enhanced due diligence on Accounts established or maintained for foreign financial institutions and private banking accounts established or maintained for non-U.S. persons to the extent required of Clearing Broker by Section 312 of the USA PATRIOT Act and FinCEN guidance.
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(e) Obtain and review certifications and re-certifications provided by Correspondent regarding Accounts for foreign shell banks and close all prohibited Accounts to the extent required of Clearing Broker by sections 313 and 319 of the USA PATRIOT Act.
(f) Establish and maintain scanning procedures designed to comply with economic and trade sanctions administered by OFAC.
(g) Comply with special measures imposed on Clearing Broker by the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury applicable to jurisdictions and other financial institutions.
(h) Comply with requests made by FinCEN under Section 314(a) of the USA PATRIOT Act.
(i) File IRS Report FBAR to the extent required of Clearing Broker under applicable law.
(j) Comply with the Travel Rule to the extent required of Clearing Broker by the Travel Rule and BSA guidance.
(k) Comply with all anti-money laundering provisions to the extent applicable to Clearing Broker under applicable laws, rules and regulations, including Section 311 of the BSA (special measures for jurisdictions, financial institutions, or international transactions of primary money laundering concern), Section 326 of the BSA (verification of identification), Section 352 of the BSA (anti-money laundering programs), and Section 356 of the BSA (reporting of suspicious activities).
(l) Filing, to the extent and when required of Clearing Broker by Applicable Rules, all appropriate forms, including Forms CTR, CMIR and SAR SF.
3.16.3 Correspondent’s obligations set forth in this Section 3.16 shall apply to its business and any secondary introducing firms for which it makes available clearing services from Clearing Broker.
3.16.4 Should Correspondent fail to satisfy its material obligations set forth in this Section 3.16, Clearing Broker shall have an immediate right to terminate the Agreement for breach.
3.17 Exceptions to LOA procedures. Clearing Broker’s policy requires a copy of a valid Letter of Authorization (“LOA”) from the account owner(s) be provided to Clearing Broker on all third party check requests. Pursuant to the terms of Section 3.6.1, Clearing Broker may, in its sole discretion, grant Correspondent an exception to its policies and procedures and permit Correspondent to utilize Clearing Broker’s “ROCK” function in conjunction with third party check disbursements. In the event that such an exception is granted, Correspondent shall comply with the following obligations and restrictions:
(a) Correspondent shall obtain and validate the authenticity of LOAs for all third party check requests;
(b) Correspondent shall maintain and make available for inspection upon request copies or originals of LOAs provided in conjunction with third party check requests processed by Clearing Broker;
(c) Correspondent is responsible for performing OFAC and “travel rule” due diligence on the third-party payees; and
(d) Correspondent shall notify Clearing Broker as soon as practicable in the event that fraud or otherwise inappropriate activity is known or suspected with respect to disbursements made pursuant to this exception.
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3.18 STAMP Program. Clearing Broker may, in its sole discretion, use its Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program signature guarantee or other signature guarantee program in order to process transactions for Correspondent and/or Correspondent’s Customers. Correspondent agrees to reimburse, indemnify and hold harmless Clearing Broker from any loss of any kind (including court costs and legal costs and expenses) that may result from Clearing Broker’s use of such guarantee. Nothing contained herein shall require Clearing Broker to use its signature guarantee, and by submitting any document or signature to Clearing Broker, Correspondent attests unconditionally that such document or signature is genuine and accurate, and, if a signature, that the person signing was duly authorized and legally competent to sign in such capacity.
3.19 Back Office Functionality. Clearing Broker may, in its sole discretion, grant Correspondent access to and use of certain back office functions (the “Functions”) available on Clearing Broker’s platform. The Functions may include, but are not limited to, programs that permit Correspondent to remotely deposit checks and other deposits into bank accounts designated by Clearing Broker (the “On-Site Electronic Deposit Program”) enter deposits of money into client accounts, move money between accounts, receive securities into a customer account, make check requests, print checks, request that street name securities be registered in a client’s name, request wire transfers, and enter cost basis information for client accounts. Clearing Broker may, in its sole discretion and at any time, limit or terminate Correspondent’s access to the Functions.
Correspondent’s use of the Functions and all transactions related thereto shall be subject to the Clearing Broker’s policies and procedures set forth in the RBC Correspondent Services Procedures Manual (the “Procedures”), as such Procedures may be amended and/or updated by Clearing Broker from time to time. Such Procedures are available to Correspondent at Clearing Broker’s lnfoWorkS website or any successor intranet site, and are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of the Agreement. By using any Function, Correspondent acknowledges and agrees that it has reviewed the Procedures and is familiar with the Procedures then in effect at the time of such use and agrees to reimburse, indemnify and hold harmless Clearing Broker from any loss of any kind (including court costs and legal costs and expenses) that may result from Clearing Broker’s failure to follow such Procedures.
Unless otherwise indicated by Clearing Broker, Correspondent shall use the On-site Electronic Deposit Program to process all checks received for deposit into Accounts held with Clearing Broker. Correspondent agrees to allow Clearing Broker, Clearing Broker’s chosen vendor supplying the On-site Electronic Deposit Program, or any regulator thereof, access to Correspondent’s facilities and personnel for the limited purpose of auditing Correspondent’s use of the On-Site Electronic Deposit Program. Correspondent further agrees to provide to Clearing Broker, upon its reasonable request, documents and information pertaining to Correspondent’s use of the On-Site Electronic Deposit Program. Clearing Broker agrees to limit requests for such access, information and documents to only what is required by law and regulation or the risk-management policies and procedures of Clearing Broker or its chosen vendor supplying the On-site Electronic Deposit Program. Clearing Broker shall use best efforts to coordinate with Correspondent regarding any such access and make reasonable scheduling accommodations.
3.20 Maintenance of Information and Systems. Correspondent shall obtain and maintain the necessary documents, information, systems and interfaces with Clearing Broker’s systems in order to perform the functions and obligations allocated to Correspondent pursuant to this Agreement.
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3.21 Market Access Trading Services. As required under Rule 15c3-5, or any successor rule or provision (as used in this section, the “Rule”) adopted under the Exchange Act, the parties wish to allocate obligations and responsibilities arising under the Rule in connection with Correspondent’s use of the market access provided by Clearing Broker and agree as follows:
a. The parties agree that Correspondent is better suited to institute and maintain regulatory risk management controls with regard to market access due to Correspondent’s relationship to those persons authorized to access the market under the Agreement (including Correspondent’s customers and authorized traders).
b. The parties agree that Correspondent shall have responsibility for implementing and maintaining the regulatory risk management controls and supervisory procedures as identified in the rule, including paragraph (c)(2) of the Rule. Correspondent shall adopt, implement and enforce regulatory risk management controls and supervisory procedures that, at a minimum, are reasonably designed to ensure compliance with all “regulatory requirements” (as such term is defined in the Rule), including being reasonably designed to:
(i) Prevent the entry of orders unless there has been compliance with all federal securities laws, rules and regulations of self-regulatory organizations that are in connection with “market access” (as such term is defined in the Rule) that must be satisfied on a pre-order entry basis;
(ii) Prevent the entry of orders for securities for a broker or dealer, customer, or other person if such person is restricted from trading those securities;
(iii) Restrict access to trading systems and technology that provide market access to persons and accounts pre-approved and authorized by the broker or dealer; and
(iv) Assure that appropriate surveillance personnel receive immediate post-trade execution reports that result from market access.
c. Correspondent will conduct surveillance for compliance with the controls and procedures described above on a regular basis and evidence such surveillance in writing. Upon request, Correspondent will provide to Clearing Broker copies of Correspondent’s regulatory risk management controls and supervisory procedures and evidence of supervision for compliance with those controls and procedures.
d. Without limiting the generality of the Correspondent’s duties under this section, Correspondent’s obligations hereunder will include meeting all federal securities laws, rules and regulations of self-regulatory organizations that are in connection with market access (as such term is defined in the Rule) with regard to the following areas:
A. Short Sales-Order Marking (SEC Regulation SHO)
B. Short Sales-Locates (SEC Regulation SHO)
C. Market Orders in Initial Public Offerings (FINRA Rule 5131)
D. Registration (1933 Securities Act Section 5)
E. Changes in Account Name or Designation (FINRA Rule 4515)
F. Requirement that Options Agreement is on file prior to accepting Customer options orders
G. Option Authority Level
H. Activities while engaged in a distribution (SEC Regulation M, et al)
I. Penny Stock Rules (SEC Rules 15g-1 through 15g-9)
J. Net Transactions (FINRA Rule 2124)
K. Securities Repurchases by Issuers (SEC Rule l0b-18)
L. Wash Sales
M. Matched Orders
N. Pre-arranged trading
O. Marking the close
P. Trade Shredding
Q. 10b5-1Trading
R. Block Trading
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e. Clearing Broker shall have the right, upon two (2) business days prior notice (or sooner if required by applicable law or rule), to audit the controls and procedures implemented in connection with Correspondent’s obligations under this Addendum. Such audit may include an inspection of Correspondent’s books and records, offices and computers.
f. In the event that any significant changes are made to Correspondent’s regulatory risk management controls and supervisory procedures, Correspondent shall provide Clearing Broker with written notification regarding such changes within a reasonable time.
g. Correspondent shall be solely responsible for any breach or failure of its regulatory risk management controls and supervisory procedures, irrespective of any electronic or other control procedures put in place by Clearing Broker that may be designed to, or capable of, detecting or notifying Correspondent of any such breach or failure.
3.22 Third Party Manager Products. If Correspondent participates in any platform under which Clearing Broker provides Correspondent access to third party money managers or overlay portfolio managers (collectively, the “Investment Manager”) including, without limitation Clearing Broker’s Resource II, Unbundled Managed Account Solutions, and Total Strategy Account products, as well as any successor or similar product (collectively, the “Platform”), then in connection with such participation Correspondent represents, warrants and agrees as follows:
a. Correspondent, and to the extent applicable, its affiliates will comply with the terms and conditions of the agreements and disclosures, if any, governing their participation in such Platform (the “Platform Agreement”) and will notify Clearing Broker promptly (in any event within two (2) business days) in writing in the event of a breach of the Platform Agreement by the Correspondent, its affiliates or the Investment Manager, or the termination of the Platform Agreement.
b. Correspondent represents and warrants that it to the extent applicable and required by Applicable Rules, its affiliates, are and will remain duly registered and in good standing as an investment advisor under the 1940 Act and appropriately qualified in each state in which Correspondent or its affiliates are required to be so qualified, and each of Correspondent, its officers, directors, agents, employees or servants are and will remain in material compliance with all Applicable Rules during the term of this Agreement.
c. Correspondent represents and warrants that for each Account that Correspondent or its affiliates place in the Platform, Correspondent or its affiliates will have obtained and continue to maintain each Customer’s written authorization (i) appointing such party as investment advisor with respect to the assets of all of such Customer’s Accounts, and (ii) authorizing such party to engage in all actions on behalf of such Customer in which each such party engages under this Agreement, including giving instructions to Clearing Broker for transactions in securities and financial instruments and aggregating orders for Customers, (iii) permitting Investment Manager to provide trade instructions direction to Clearing Broker for Customer accounts and vote proxy and other corporate actions, disclose account information to third parties in order to service the account, receive authority to debit Customer accounts for advisory fees, and identify on the Clearing Broker’s back-office system the appropriate investment advisor to whom immediate transaction confirmations must be sent in the event a Customer elects to receive summary transaction confirmations via the brokerage account statement in lieu of immediate transaction confirmations. Each such authorization will remain in full force and effect during such time the Account is in the Platform, and Correspondent will immediately notify Clearing Broker in the event any such authorization is revoked by a Customer.
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d. Correspondent represents and warrants that it has reviewed applicable documentation with respect to each Customer’s Account and has reasonably verified that the person(s) who provided such authorizations to act on such Customer’s behalf was properly authorized to give such authorizations. Clearing Broker may rely on such authorizations without further inquiry.
e. Correspondent will conduct an evaluation of each Investment Manager and each investment option available through the Platform which Correspondent selects for or recommends to Customers for purposes which include, but may not be limited to, complying with any suitability or other obligations under applicable requirements, laws, rules and regulations of the United States, the states (where applicable), the SEC, FINRA, and any other self-regulatory organization of which such party is a member. Although Clearing Broker may have provided (and may in the future provide) information about the Platform, investment options available therein and the Investment Manager, Correspondent acknowledges that additional information regarding each such investment options and Investment Manager may be available directly from Investment Manager. Except as may otherwise be explicitly stated by Clearing Broker in separate documents relating to the relevant Platform, Correspondent has not relied on Clearing Broker to make any inquiries, perform any due diligence or exercise any judgment on or relating to the Platform, and, with respect to Clearing Broker’s role as clearing broker for Correspondent, has not relied on Clearing Broker to make any inquiries, perform any due diligence or exercise any judgment on or relating to any investment advisers participating in the Platform as model portfolio advisers (“Participating Advisers”) or any other investment options available through the Platform. To the extent that Correspondent has received information prepared by Broker regarding the Platform, Participating Adviser or Investment Manager, Correspondent has not relied on that information but has based its decision to participate in the Platform on its own inquiries, due diligence and judgment.
f. As between Clearing Broker and Correspondent, Correspondent is solely responsible for (i) obtaining appropriate information concerning the financial resources, risk tolerance profiles and investment objectives of Customers and other information relevant to the rendering of investment advisory services to Customers; (ii) determining the suitability of each Participating Adviser, other investment options and any investment recommendation or advice rendered in connection therewith, both overall and for particular Customers; (iii) assisting Customers in making selections among the investment options available in the Platform; (iv) forwarding Customer information to Investment Manager as necessary for Investment Manager and Participating Advisers, if applicable, to provide services as part of each Platform; (v) reviewing Customer transactions and otherwise monitoring accounts and the operation of the Platform as it relates to Correspondent’s Customers; and (vi) obtaining customer authorization to permit Investment Manager to provide trade instructions direction to Clearing Broker for Customer accounts and vote proxy and other corporate actions, disclose account information to third parties in order to service the account, receive authority to debit Customer accounts for advisory fees, and identify on the Clearing Broker’s back-office system the appropriate investment advisor to whom immediate transaction confirmations must be sent in the event a Customer elects to receive summary transaction confirmations via the brokerage account statement in lieu of immediate transaction confirmations. Correspondent understands and agrees that Clearing Broker, in its role as clearing broker for Correspondent, plays no role in or assumes any responsibility for reviewing Customer information or for the investments made for Customer accounts in connection with the Platform. Except as may otherwise be explicitly stated by Clearing Broker in separate documents relating to the relevant Platform, Correspondent agrees that Clearing Broker will not be responsible or liable for any act or omission of Investment Manager, Correspondent, or any Participating Adviser.
Section 4. Representations and Warranties
4.1 Mutual Representations. The parties make the following representations and warranties:
4.1.1 Organization. Each party is duly organized and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction pursuant to which it was formed and is qualified to do business in each state in which it does business and is required to qualify.
4.1.2 Power and Authority. Each party has the requisite power and authority to enter into, execute and perform its obligations under this Agreement and, when so executed and delivered, this Agreement shall constitute a legal, valid and binding obligation enforceable in accordance with its terms.
4.1.3 Registration. Each party and its employees, when so required, are registered as a broker, dealer or agent under the applicable state “blue sky” laws and the Exchange Act and is a member in good standing of FINRA and any Exchange of which it is a member.
4.1.4 Net Capital and Financial Reporting. Each party is in compliance with and maintains in excess of the minimum net capital required by Rule 15c3-1 under the Exchange Act and is in compliance with the capital and financial reporting requirements of every Exchange and FINRA as well as all capital requirements of every state in which it is registered as a broker or dealer.
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4.1.5 Compliance and Litigation. Each party, its officers, directors, agents, employees and servants are in material compliance with all Applicable Rules, and will remain in material compliance through the term of this Agreement and any renewal term.
4.2 Correspondent Representations. Correspondent further represents and warrants that (i) except as set forth in a letter of even date herewith, there is no claim, action, proceeding, investigation or inquiry pending or threatened before any court, tribunal, administrative judge or hearings officer alleging a violation of an Applicable Rule, or seeking suspension or cancellation of its broker or dealer registration with any state or the SEC or its membership in any Exchange or FINRA (ii) except as set forth in a letter of even date herewith, there is no claim, action, proceeding or arbitration pending or threatened in any court or tribunal seeking damages in excess of $10,000.
4.3 Reliance. Each party in acting hereunder may rely upon the oral or written instructions of the officers, agents, employees and servants of the other party. Correspondent further acknowledges and agrees that Clearing Broker may rely on any written, electronic, or oral instructions, communications or orders furnished by Correspondent with respect to any Customer or Account. Correspondent represents and warrants that it has adequate safeguards in place to prevent unauthorized use of its systems, and agrees that Clearing Broker is entitled to rely on any instructions received from Correspondent without any further investigation by Clearing Broker.
Section 5. Information and Cooperation
5.1 Financial Information. Each party shall promptly furnish to the other copies of the audited financial statements and such other financial statements as are required to be furnished to Customers under the Applicable Rules. Correspondent shall provide copies to Clearing Broker simultaneously with filing any financial information, Form BD or other reports with any Exchange, FINRA, or the SEC, including, but not otherwise limited to, monthly and/or quarterly, whichever is applicable, financial and operational combined uniform single reports (“FOCUS Reports”), and shall promptly provide Clearing Broker with such other information and reports of operations and financial condition as Clearing Broker may request. Any FOCUS Report required hereunder must be filed electronically through FINRA’s eFOCUS program (or such other successor electronic filing program provided by FINRA), with daincsfocus@rbc.com (or such other email as Clearing Broker may provide to Correspondent) listed as an additional address to receive an electronic copy of the filling.
5.2 Litigation and Claims. Promptly after Correspondent knows or has reason to believe it is the subject of any claim, action, suit, proceeding, arbitration, investigation or inquiry before any court, tribunal, administrative agency, Exchange, FINRA, or private arbitration panel alleging a violation of the Applicable Rules or seeking suspension or cancellation of any registration or license of Correspondent or damages in excess of $10,000, Correspondent shall furnish Clearing Broker with a statement setting forth the material facts and circumstances with respect to such claims, and any other information, including without limitation, a copy of the summons and complaint, if any, which Clearing Broker may request.
5.3 Cooperation. Each party shall cooperate with the other and provide the other with all appropriate data in its possession pertinent to the proper performance of any function, obligation or Services allocated pursuant to this Agreement. Correspondent shall make available to Clearing Broker, its attorneys, accountants and authorized agents such Account Documents, books and records or other information as necessary to comply with the Applicable Rules or to defend against any allegation of a violation of an Applicable Rule.
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5.4 Advertising. Correspondent shall not advertise or make any public statement with respect to this Agreement, the Services or the existence of any relationship with Clearing Broker without the prior written consent of Clearing Broker. Correspondent shall not make this Agreement or any document, schedule or information incorporated by reference available to any third party except as required by the Applicable Rules.
5.5 Confidentiality. Each party shall use its best efforts to prevent unauthorized access to, or disclosure of, and shall keep confidential, any information received pursuant to this Agreement which is private, confidential or proprietary in nature to the other party and is not otherwise publicly available, including, without limitation, the fees and expenses charged by Clearing Broker, any information relating to a party’s existing or prospective retail or institutional businesses and clients, including, without limitation, information relating to business strategies and concepts, information relating to clients’ accounts, the names, address, age, financial information, and all other information in the possession or under the control of a party pertaining to client accounts, and all documentation and other tangible or intangible discoveries, ideas, concepts, software, customer lists of any type or nature, research reports, designs, drawings, specifications, techniques, models, information, source code, object code, diagrams, flow charts, procedures, and “know-how” owned by a party. This shall not preclude disclosing information required for the performance of the Services or obligations required by this Agreement, or as required under the Applicable Rules (“Disclosure Requests”). Upon receiving notification of a Disclosure Request, a party will notify the other party unless expressly prohibited under Applicable Rules.
Section 6. Payment and Deposit Accounts
6.1 Payment Account. Upon execution of this Agreement, Clearing Broker shall establish an Account for Correspondent entitled the “Payment Account”. Clearing Broker shall collect for Correspondent and hold in the Payment Account all commissions, fees and other charges established by Correspondent from time to time and paid by the Customers together with any other income of Correspondent. Clearing Broker shall make payments to the Correspondent from the Payment Account in accordance with Section 8.1 of this Agreement.
6.2 Deposit Account. Upon execution of this Agreement, Clearing Broker shall establish an Account for, and in the name of, Correspondent entitled the “Deposit Account”. Correspondent shall deliver to Clearing Broker for deposit to the Deposit Account cash and securities which are (a) direct obligations of, or guaranteed as to the timely payment of principal and interest by, the United States, (b) acceptable to Clearing Broker, and (c) registered in the name specified by Clearing Broker or in good deliverable form and which in the aggregate have a fair market value, as determined solely in the discretion of Clearing Broker, equal to the Minimum Balance set forth at the end of this Agreement. Clearing Broker shall not be obligated to perform any of the Services at any time that the aggregate fair market value of the Deposit Account is less than the Minimum Balance. Correspondent shall be obligated to deposit additional cash or securities acceptable to Clearing Broker to cause the fair market value of the Deposit Account to be maintained in an amount equal to the Minimum Balance. Clearing Broker, upon 10 days’ notice to the Correspondent, may require the Minimum Balance to equal the aggregate of all claims for which indemnity may be sought by Clearing Broker pursuant to Section 9.
6.3 Nature of Deposit Account. The Deposit Account is not part of the capital of Clearing Broker, does not constitute a partnership, equity or other ownership interest in Clearing Broker, will not be subordinated to the claims of the creditors of Clearing Broker, and shall not be deemed to be Margin for any Account, unless specifically agreed to in writing by the parties. Clearing Broker may use the funds and securities in the Deposit Account in the course of its business and shall not be obligated to pay Correspondent any fee or interest received on or derived from such use, except for interest payable on the securities therein and interest on the cash balances at the rate set forth in the attached Fee Schedule.
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6.4 Clearing Broker Rights to Accounts. For any claim Clearing Broker may have against Correspondent or any Customer or Account, Correspondent grants Clearing Broker a continuing security interest and general lien upon the Deposit Account and Payment Account, and acknowledges Clearing Broker shall have a right of setoff against any Accounts to the extent of any Account Debit or claim. In connection therewith, Correspondent further grants Clearing Broker a security interest and right of setoff against all the moneys, securities and other property belonging to Correspondent in the possession or control of Correspondent or a financial intermediary for the account of Correspondent and authorizes Clearing Broker to perfect such security interest by giving notice thereof to such financial intermediary. In the event Clearing Broker has a claim against Correspondent or against any Account or Customer which has not been promptly paid, Clearing Broker shall have the right to satisfy the claim by liquidating any securities or other property and withdrawing the amount, in any order, from the following: (i) the relevant Account; (ii) the Payment Account; (iii) the Deposit Account; and (iv) other securities, cash, and property held by Clearing Broker for the Account, Customer or Correspondent. Clearing Broker shall notify the Correspondent of any such liquidations and withdrawals.
6.5 Disposition upon Termination. Upon the termination or expiration of this Agreement, Clearing Broker shall deliver to Correspondent the contents of the Deposit Account and Payment Account on or before the end of the 30-calendar day period that begins on the 5th business day after the initial transfer of customer accounts to the successor clearing broker-dealer, less any withdrawals or deductions made pursuant to this Agreement, and less any amount Clearing Broker deems appropriate until a final resolution of any open items, claims or proceedings regarding any Account or claim against Correspondent.
Section 7. Compliance with PAIB Provisions
7.1 Compliance with No-Action Letter. In order to comply with the SEC No-Action Letter, dated November 3, 1998 (the “No-Action Letter”), relating to the capital treatment of assets in the proprietary account of a Correspondent (“PAIB”), and to permit Correspondent to use PAIB assets in its net capital computations, Correspondent understands, acknowledges and agrees that it shall identify to Clearing Broker in writing all accounts that are, or from time to time may be, proprietary accounts of Correspondent. The parties shall continue to adhere to the terms of the No-Action Letter, including the Interpretations set forth therein, in all respects.
7.2 Computation. Clearing Broker shall perform a computation for PAIB assets (the “PAIB Reserve Computation”) of Correspondent in accordance with the customer reserve computation set forth in Rule 15c3-3 (the “customer reserve formula”) with the following modifications: (a) any credit (including a credit applied to reduce a debit) that is included in the customer reserve formula may not be included as a credit in the PAIB reserve computation; (b) note E(3) to Rule 15c3-3a which reduces debit balances by 1% under the basic method and subparagraph (a)(l)(ii)(A) of the net capital rule which reduces debit balances by 3% under the alternative method shall not apply; and (c) neither Note E(l) to Rule 15c3-3a nor NYSE Interpretation /04 to Item 10 of Rule 15c3-3a regarding securities concentration charges shall be applicable to the PAIB reserve computation. The PAIB reserve computation shall include all proprietary accounts of Correspondent. All PAIB assets shall be kept separate and distinct from customer assets under the customer reserve formula in Rule 15c3-3. The PAIB reserve computation shall be prepared within the same time frames as those prescribed by Rule 15c3-3 for the customer reserve formula. The proprietary account of an introducing broker that is a guaranteed subsidiary of a clearing broker or that guarantees all liabilities and obligations of a clearing broker is to be excluded from the PAIB reserve computation.
7.3 Creation of Special Reserve Account. Clearing Broker shall establish and maintain a separate “Special Reserve Account for the Exclusive Benefit of Customers” with a bank in conformity with the standards of paragraph (f) of Rule 15c3-3 (the “PAIB Reserve Account”). Cash and/or qualified securities as defined in the customer reserve formula shall be maintained in the PAIB Reserve Account in an amount equal to the PAIB reserve requirement.
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7.4 Deposit Requirement. If the PAIB reserve computation results in a deposit requirement, the requirement may be satisfied to the extent of any excess debit in the customer reserve formula of the same date. However, a deposit requirement resulting from the customer reserve formula shall not be satisfied with excess debits from the PAIB reserve computation.
7.5 Failure to Satisfy Deposit Requirement. Upon discovery that any deposit made to the PAIB Reserve Account did not satisfy its deposit requirement, Clearing Broker shall by facsimile or telegram immediately notify its designated examining authority and the SEC. Unless a corrective plan is found acceptable by the SEC and the designated examining authority, Clearing Broker shall provide Correspondent with written notification within five (5) business days of the date of discovery that PAIB assets held by Clearing Broker shall not be deemed allowable assets for net capital purposes. The notification shall also state that if Correspondent wishes to continue to count its PAIB assets as allowable, it has until the last business day of the month following the month in which the notification was made to transfer all PAIB assets to another clearing broker. However, if the deposit deficiency is remedied before the time at which Correspondent must transfer its PAIB assets to another clearing broker, the Correspondent may choose to keep its assets at Clearing Broker.
7.6 Treatment of Commissions. Commissions receivable and other receivables of Correspondent from Clearing Broker (excluding clearing deposits) that are otherwise allowable assets under the net capital rule may not be included in the PAIB reserve computation, provided that the amounts have been clearly identified as receivables on the books and records of Correspondent and as payables on the books of Clearing Broker.
7.7 Notification of Designated Examination Authority. Within two business days of entering into any PAIB Agreement, Correspondent must notify its designated examining authority in writing that it has entered into such agreement with Clearing Broker.
Section 8. Fees
8.1 Deduction of and Change in Fees. Clearing Broker shall charge Correspondent, and Correspondent shall pay Clearing Broker, the fees set forth in the Fee Schedule attached hereto as Exhibit B (the “Fee Schedule” Clearing Broker shall deduct the fees and all other sums Correspondent owes to Clearing Broker from the Payment Account, the Deposit Account or any other money or property of Correspondent held by or in the possession and control of Clearing Broker. After the deduction of fees and charges, Clearing Broker shall pay the balance in the Payment Account to the Correspondent within five (5) days after the final settlement date of each month. Clearing Broker may amend the Fee Schedule at any time to add new or expanded Services at prices contained within a notice to Correspondent. Effective no sooner than six (6) months from the date of this Agreement, Clearing Broker may amend the Fee Schedule to increase the fees upon ninety (90) days’ notice to Correspondent, provided however, that Clearing Broker may increase fees at any time if such increase is due to changes in third party fees that are passed on to the Correspondent or Customers.
8.2 Additional Consideration. As additional consideration for performing the Services, Clearing Broker shall be entitled to retain the benefit of utilizing the funds and securities in the Accounts and of carrying Account Debits. Except as otherwise agreed by the parties, no interest shall be paid or credit given for any credit balances which may be left on deposit with Clearing Broker. Interest income earned through charges on Account Debits in any Account shall be proprietary to and fully retained by Clearing Broker. Clearing Broker shall bear the costs of any Margin to effect stock borrows.
Section 9. Indemnification
9.1 Indemnity. Each party shall indemnify and hold harmless the other party and its affiliates and subsidiaries, and their respective controlling persons, officers, directors, agents, servants and employees (the “Indemnified Party”), from and against costs, losses, claims, liabilities, fines, penalties, damages and expenses (including reasonable attorney and accountant fees) (individually, a “Claim”, collectively, the “Claims” arising out of or resulting from any actual or alleged breach of this Agreement, the enforcement of this Agreement, or any failure or omission to fully carry out any duties or obligations under this Agreement by the indemnifying party or any breach of any representation or warranty herein; provided, however, that Clearing Broker shall be liable to indemnify the Correspondent only in the event of its willful misconduct or gross negligence.
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9.2 Notice of Claim. The Indemnified Party shall give prompt notice of a Claim (the “Notice of Claim”) to the indemnifying party and, when known, the facts forming the basis for the Claim, and the indemnifying party shall promptly pay such Claim. If a Claim involves any claim or demand by a third party, the indemnifying party shall be entitled (without prejudice to the right of any Indemnified Party to participate at its own expense through counsel of its own choosing) to defend or prosecute such a Claim at its expense and through counsel of its own choosing, if it gives written notice to the Indemnified Party within fifteen {15) days after the Notice of Claim is given. If the indemnifying party has assumed the defense of a Claim, the Indemnified Party shall not settle or compromise such Claim without the prior written consent of the indemnifying party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, that an Indemnified Party may settle or compromise any Claim without such consent if the Indemnified Party does not seek indemnification therefore.
9.3 Payment of Expenses. The indemnifying party shall promptly pay the expenses of an Indemnified Party on a continuing basis in defending against a Claim. All such proper expenses not paid within thirty (30) days after an invoice is rendered shall bear interest at a rate equal to one hundred twenty-five percent (125%) of the interest rate charged for Margin.
9.4 Claims not Covered. Clearing Broker shall not be responsible or liable for any Claim or damages arising out of or caused, directly or indirectly, by a failure to perform, or delay in performance of any obligations under this Agreement caused by circumstances beyond Clearing Broker’s reasonable control, including, without limitation: (i) acts of God; (ii) interruption, delay in, loss (partial or complete) of computer hardware or software, public utility or telecommunication service, (iii) act of civil or military authority; (iv) sabotage, riot, natural emergency, epidemic, war, government action, civil disturbance, explosion, earthquake, flood, fire or other catastrophe; (v) strike or other labor disturbance; (vi) Exchange, FINRA or government order, rule or regulation; (vii) energy or natural resource difficulty or shortage; and (viii) inability to obtain materials, equipment or transportation.
Section 10. Fixed Income Inventory Access
10.1 Bond System. At the request of Correspondent, Clearing Broker may make available to Correspondent an interactive electronic trading system and data network (the “Bond System”) which provides trade and quotation information and order execution capabilities relating to fixed income securities (the “Securities”). Clearing Broker reserves the right to limit or withhold, in its absolute discretion, Correspondent’s access to the Bond System.
10.2 Services. (a) Correspondent understands and agrees that:
(i) | It shall employ the Bond System only to receive market information relating to the Securities and to purchase such Securities from Clearing Broker’s inventory(ies); |
(ii) | All transactions effected through the Bond System are inter-dealer transactions; |
(iii) | Neither Correspondent nor its employees or agents shall offer to or effect transactions for its customers at prices higher than permitted by applicable law; |
(iv) | Clearing Broker shall have no oversight of, or rights, responsibilities or obligations relating to, Correspondent’s duty to comply with Applicable Rules, including, without limitation, the FINRA Rules of Fair Practice and the related FINRA Markup Policy in selling to its customers Securities purchased by Correspondent through the Bond System; and |
(v) | Clearing Broker shall have the right to contract with a third party, including another dealer, to provide services similar to those offered through the Bond System. |
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(b) | Clearing Broker understands and agrees that: |
(i) | Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Clearing Broker will use its best efforts to provide accurate, current and fair information under prevailing market circumstances; |
(ii) | Clearing Broker will make the Bond System available to Correspondent during the same hours its is available for other clients of Clearing Broker, subject to market conditions. |
(iii) | Correspondent shall have the right to utilize similar services, including those provided by other brokers or third-party vendors, to obtain access to other bond inventories. |
10.3 Confidentiality. Correspondent and Clearing Broker understand, acknowledge and agree that: (a) any information obtained through the Bond System shall be confidential and proprietary information of Clearing Broker (“Clearing Broker Confidential Information”); (b) Correspondent shall use at least the same standard of care in the protection of Clearing Broker Confidential Information as it uses to protect its own confidential or proprietary information; (c) Correspondent shall use such Clearing Broker Confidential Information only in connection with the purposes of this Agreement and shall make such Clearing Broker Confidential Information available only to its employees, employees of its subsidiaries and affiliates, subcontractors or agents having a “need to know” with respect to such purpose (it is presumed that an employee of Correspondent will have a “need to know” the facts concerning a particular bond that may relate to a transaction that the employee may wish to effect, but that an employee will not have a “need to know” anything else concerning Clearing Broker’s bond inventory); (d) the obligations in this Section 10 shall not restrict any disclosure by Correspondent required by any applicable law, or by order of any court or government agency (provided that the disclosing party shall give prompt notice to the non-disclosing party of such order); (e) in the event of a breach or threatened breach of any of the provisions of this Section 10.3, the non-breaching party may have no adequate remedy in damages and, accordingly, shall be entitled to seek an injunction to prevent such breach or threatened breach; and (f) each party shall notify the other party promptly of any unauthorized possession, use or knowledge, or attempt thereof, of any Clearing Broker Confidential Information by any person or entity which may become known to it, and shall promptly furnish to the other party full details of the unauthorized possession, use or knowledge, or attempt thereof, and use reasonable efforts to assist the other party in investigating or preventing the reoccurrence of any unauthorized possession, use or knowledge of Clearing Broker Confidential Information.
Section 11. Provision of Technology
11.1 Execution of Letter Agreements. From time to time, Clearing Broker will make available to Correspondent, at Clearing Broker’s sole discretion, one or more Technology Services, the License, uses, fees and scope of which will be governed by the terms of (a) this Agreement and (b) one or more letter agreements (each, a “Letter Agreement”) relating specifically to the individual Technology Services purchased from Clearing Broker. Correspondent agrees that it will negotiate in good faith the terms of the specific Technology Services that it elects to purchase from Clearing Broker. Correspondent will inform Clearing Broker of any objections to the terms of a Letter Agreement within fifteen (15) days of receipt thereof, and the terms of such Letter Agreement shall be binding upon Correspondent in the event that it fails to reject such Letter Agreement, in whole or in part, within such time period. Clearing Broker reserves the right to require that Correspondent provide a copy of the Letter Agreement counter-signed by the chief executive officer or another principal of the Correspondent prior to installing, or permitting Correspondent to use, any Technology Services. In the event of a conflict between the terms of a Letter Agreement and those of this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall govern.
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11.2 Ownership of Technology Services. Clearing Broker (or the licensor to Clearing Broker) shall at all times be and remain the sole and exclusive owner of the Technology Services, including, without limitation, any proprietary computer software, home page design(s), methodologies, techniques, software libraries, and know-how used by Clearing Broker or incorporated into the Technology Services, and further including all improvements, modifications, or enhancements thereto. Except with respect to intellectual property rights in trademarks and copyrights belonging to Correspondent or the licensor of Technology Services to Clearing Broker, Clearing Broker retains all rights, title and interest in and to the Technology Services, including without limitation, all applicable copyrights (including without limitation, the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute copies of, display and perform the copyrighted work and to prepare derivative works), copyright registrations and applications, trademark rights (including without limitation, registrations and applications), patent rights, trademarks, mask-work rights, trade secrets, moral rights, authors’ rights, and all renewal and extensions thereof, regardless of whether any of such rights arise under the laws of the United States or any other state, country or jurisdiction. Any and all changes or modifications to any Technology Services by Correspondent shall be undertaken only with the prior written consent of Clearing Broker, and Clearing Broker shall own all right, title and interest to and in all such changes, modifications or enhancements, which shall be deemed to have been and will be treated as a work made for hire at the direction of Clearing Broker within the meaning of the Copyright Act of 1976, as amended.
11.3 Licenses. Correspondent understands and agrees that the Technology Services may be subject to a license from Clearing Broker, or a sub-license from Clearing Broker if Clearing Broker has licensed the Technology Services from an unaffiliated vendor (collectively, a “License”), which will be governed by the terms of one or more Letter Agreements. Correspondent further understands and agrees that (a) each such License shall govern its use of the Technology Services relating thereto; (b) Clearing Broker reserves the right in its sole discretion to revoke such License for cause; (c) such vendor(s) may impose conditions or restrictions on the use of such Technology Services by Correspondent, and such conditions or restrictions may substantially limit the scope of, or result in the termination of, Correspondent’s ability to use the Technology Services; and (d) it shall assume and be solely responsible for complying with the obligations and responsibilities imposed by such vendor as a condition of the use of the License.
(a) Limitation on License. Correspondent may use the Technology Services only in its own retail securities brokerage operations. Other than as specifically authorized by this Agreement, Correspondent may not re-license, sub-license, sell, lease, or in any other manner convey any rights in, grant permission to use, provide access to, or make available to others the Technology Services without Clearing Broker’s express written consent. Correspondent may not use the Technology Services to operate or support the operations of a service bureau. Correspondent may not publish, disclose, display, provide access to or otherwise make available any part of the Technology Services, or any screens, formats, reports or printouts used, provided, produced or supplied from or in connection therewith, to any person, entity, or third-party, other than an employee, independent contractor, or affiliate of Correspondent without the prior written consent of, and on terms acceptable to, Clearing Broker. Correspondent further agrees that the License granted by Clearing Broker, and the use of such related Technology Services, shall be subject to payment of the fees determined by Clearing Broker and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
(b) Modifications to or Rescission of License(s). Correspondent understands and acknowledges that: (a) Clearing Broker has licensed one or more of the components of the Technology Services from one or more vendors; (b) such vendors have entered into one or more master license agreements with Clearing Broker pursuant to which Clearing Broker is permitted to license such technology to firms with which Clearing Broker has a correspondent clearing relationship, such as Correspondent; and (c) one or more such vendors may, without notice to Clearing Broker or to Correspondent, unilaterally change, modify or rescind the terms of such master lease agreements with Clearing Broker, with the result that Clearing Broker is no longer permitted to license to Correspondent the Technology Services. Correspondent further understands and agrees to accept the risk of such changes, modifications and adjustments.
(c) Site of Technology Services. Correspondent may use the Technology Services only at its main business office or processing facility at the address identified on the signature page of this Agreement.
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(d) No Modifications; No Use of Non-Standard Software. Correspondent understands, acknowledges and agrees that it shall make no modification to the Technology Services, or any component thereof, unless such modification is performed by Clearing Broker. Correspondent further agrees that it will not use, or permit any of its employees to use, software provided by a person other than Clearing Broker with the Technology Services.
11.4 Term of License; Termination. A License will be effective on the date on which the applicable Letter Agreement is executed, unless otherwise noted, and, unless sooner terminated, is granted in perpetuity; provided, however, that Clearing Broker reserves the right to terminate any such License for cause, or if this Agreement is terminated for any reason.
11.5 Transferability of License. Correspondent may not transfer any License granted by Clearing Broker (or any licensor to Clearing Broker) without the prior written consent of Clearing Broker (or the relevant licensor, as applicable).
11.6 Enhancements. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, Clearing Broker has no obligation to provide Correspondent with enhancements, upgrades or new releases to any or all components of the Technology Services that Correspondent purchases from Clearing Broker. Any such enhancements, upgrades or new releases (a) made available to Correspondent shall be at prices determined, in its sole discretion, by Clearing Broker, and (b) shall remain the exclusive proprietary property of Clearing Broker or the vendor supplying such technology.
11.7 Use of Internet Domain Name. Correspondent understands, acknowledges and agrees that, as a condition precedent to (a) the installation of the Technology Services and (b) the successful use of the Technology Services, the Correspondent may be required to identify and register a unique Internet domain name for its use. Correspondent further agrees that it shall bear all costs and expenses, including, without limitation, the payment of any relevant fees and charges, associated with registering such domain name.
11.8 Equipment and Hardware; Other Services. Correspondent understands and agrees that:
(a) It is solely responsible for obtaining, installing at its premises, and maintaining all equipment and hardware, including telecommunications equipment, necessary for using any Technology Services which it acquires or licenses from Clearing Broker;
(b) As part of the Technology Services to be provided under the terms of this Agreement and/or any Letter Agreement, an unaffiliated vendor may require that Correspondent execute one or more separate agreements with such vendor, and that Clearing Broker may or may not be a party to such agreement(s).
11.9 Access and Access Security. Correspondent shall determine whether and which of its customers, employees or agents shall have access to the Technology Services. Correspondent shall be solely responsible for the assignment, distribution, and maintenance of all passwords, codes, and other security measures designed to ensure that access to such Technology Services is granted only to those individuals who are authorized by Correspondent. Nothing in this paragraph shall affect or diminish Clearing Broker’s right, in its sole discretion, to refuse to provide any or all Technology Services to Correspondent, its agents, employees, or any customer(s) of Correspondent.
11.10 No Unauthorized Use of Technology Services. Correspondent will not copy, modify, distribute or transfer (by any means), display, sublicense, rent, reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble any software or other technology that is included in the Technology Services.
11.11 Installation and Training. Subject to the terms of a Letter Agreement, Clearing Broker shall provide Correspondent with basic installation assistance and training regarding the Technology Services acquired by Correspondent. Correspondent is responsible for providing physical space and facilities sufficient, in the reasonable judgment of Clearing Broker, for Clearing Broker to install, and for Correspondent to operate, the Technology Services. Correspondent further agrees that it shall pay the costs and travel expenses, if any, incurred by Clearing Broker’s personnel in connection with such installation assistance and training provided by Clearing Broker’s personnel.
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11.12 Duty of Cooperation. Correspondent is also obligated to cooperate in good faith in the conversion process and to provide such resources and access to Correspondent’s present systems, data and operations as Clearing Broker may require to perform its duties hereunder.
11.13 Technical Services for Problems and User Help. As part of the Technology Services, Clearing Broker may, in its discretion, make available to Correspondent assistance through one or more Help Desk(s) operated by Clearing Broker or the vendor from which Clearing Broker has licensed the technology; provided, however, that Clearing Broker reserves the right to terminate such Help Desk at its discretion, without notice to Correspondent.
11.14 Charges and Payments.
(a) Correspondent agrees that it shall pay all License fees payable from its purchase of the Technology Services within thirty (30) days of the date of the applicable invoice from Clearing Broker. Correspondent hereby authorizes Clearing Broker to deduct from its Clearing Deposit, or any other source of funds on deposit with, or in the possession of, Clearing Broker, such funds as necessary to satisfy its obligations under such invoice.
(b) All charges payable under this Agreement and/or any Letter Agreement shall be exclusive of any federal, state or local sales, use, excise, ad valorem, personal property or other taxes (other than taxes based upon the net income of Clearing Broker) levied, or any fines, forfeitures or penalties assessed in connection therewith, as a result of this Agreement or the installation or use of any Technology Services hereunder. Any such taxes that may be applicable will be paid by Correspondent.
11.15 | Proprietary Information; Indemnification. |
(a) Correspondent understands, acknowledges and agrees that (i) the Technology Services licensed from Clearing Broker, including, without limitation and as applicable, any enhancements thereto, and all screens and formats used in connection therewith, are the exclusive proprietary property of Clearing Broker, and (ii) the Technology Services licensed to Clearing Broker and sub-licensed to Correspondent, including, without limitation and as applicable, any enhancements thereto, and all screens and formats used in connection therewith, are the exclusive proprietary property of the vendor from whom such Technology Services are licensed.
(b) Correspondent further agrees that it shall not publish, disclose, display, provide access to or otherwise make available any Technology Services (including, without limitation, the content, source-code, object-code embodiments, plans, specifications, and designs of any of the Technology Services), or products thereof, or any screens, formats, reports or printouts used, provided, produced or supplied from or in connection therewith, or any recommendations, strategies, requirements, discoveries, designs, inventions, computer software, processes, improvements, developments, methods, formulae, factors and parameters and values of such factors and parameters used in formulae, techniques, engineering, know-how, trade secrets, systems, documentation, drawings, renderings, plans, artwork, descriptions, specifications, historical or technical or research data, custom-designed computer codes, proprietary computer codes, and proprietary information of third parties (regardless of whether any such item is susceptible to patent, copyright, or any other form of protection), to any person or entity other than an employee of Correspondent, without the prior written consent of, and on terms acceptable to, Clearing Broker, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld. Notwithstanding any term or provision in this Agreement to the contrary, Clearing Broker may use and disclose compiled statistical information for planning and other purposes, provided that the identity of Correspondent and Correspondent’s customers is not discernible. In addition, Clearing Broker may disclose information with respect to Correspondent to third parties in connection with Clearing Broker’s development of the Technology Services, including Correspondent’s home page.
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(c) Correspondent understands that the unauthorized publication or disclosure of any of the Technology Services, or any underlying software or other technology, or the unauthorized use of the Technology Services, would cause irreparable harm to Clearing Broker for which there is no adequate remedy at law. Correspondent therefore agrees that in the event of unauthorized disclosure or use, Clearing Broker may, at its discretion and at Correspondent’s expense, terminate this Agreement, obtain immediate injunctive relief in a court of competent jurisdiction, or take such other steps as it deems necessary to protect its rights. If Clearing Broker, in its reasonable, good faith judgment, determines that there is a material risk of such unauthorized disclosure or use, it may demand immediate assurances, satisfactory to Clearing Broker, that there will be no such unauthorized disclosure or use. In the absence of such assurance, Clearing Broker may immediately terminate this Agreement and take such other steps as it deems necessary. The rights of Clearing Broker hereunder are in addition to any other remedies provided at law or in equity.
(d) In the event of any claim by a third party against Clearing Broker arising from or relating to, directly or indirectly, (i) Correspondent’s use of the Technology Services; (ii) damages incurred as a result of an act or omission with respect to security procedures applicable to the Technology Services then in effect by Clearing Broker, by Correspondent, by a customer of Correspondent, or by any other individual or entity accessing any account or information of a customer of Correspondent; or (iii) any alleged or actual violation by Correspondent or employee(s) of Correspondent of any person’s patent, trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights, Correspondent assumes full responsibility for and shall defend such claim, action or proceeding and hold harmless Clearing Broker, its officers, agents, employees, assigns, and successors in interest, or any of them, from and against any and all liability, including, without limitation, any tax liability, and pay all damages, costs, losses, claims, demands, attorney’s fees and expenses, or any of them, arising out of such action or proceeding and irrespective of whether such claim is successful. The obligations of Correspondent hereunder shall survive termination of this Agreement.
11.16 DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES. CORRESPONDENT EXPRESSLY AGREES THAT CORRESPONDENT’S USE OF ANY OR ALL COMPONENTS OF THE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES OFFERED TO IT BY CLEARING BROKER IS AT CORRESPONDENT’S SOLE RISK. NEITHER CLEARING BROKER NOR ANY OF ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, CONTRACTORS, AFFILIATES, INFORMATION PROVIDERS, LICENSORS, OR OTHER SUPPLIERS PROVIDING DATA, INFORMATION, SERVICES OR SOFTWARE, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC., WARRANTS THAT SUCH SERVICE, TECHNOLOGY OR DATA WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR FREE; NOR DO ANY OF THEM MAKE ANY WARRANTY AS TO THE RESULTS THAT MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE USE OF SUCH SERVICE, TECHNOLOGY OR DATA, OR AS TO THE TIMELINESS, SEQUENCE, ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS, RELIABILITY OR CONTENT OF ANY DATA, INFORMATION, SERVICES, OR TRANSACTIONS PROVIDED THROUGH THE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES. THE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES ARE PROVIDED ON AN “AS IS,” “AS AVAILABLE” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OTHER THAN THOSE WARRANTIES WHICH ARE IMPLIED BY AND INCAPABLE OF EXCLUSION, RESTRICTION OR MODIFICATION UNDER THE LAWS APPLICABLE TO THIS AGREEMENT.
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11.17 No Professional Users. Correspondent acknowledges that certain information available via one or more Technology Services cannot be viewed by an individual who is a member of any exchange or FINRA, or of any corporation of which an exchange owns a majority of the capital stock, or of a member firm or member corporation of any exchange or FINRA, or of any corporation, firm or individual engaged in the business of dealing either as a broker or a principal in securities, bills of exchange, acceptances or other forms of commercial paper (collectively, a “Professional User”). Correspondent acknowledges that Correspondent is solely responsible for ensuring that no such individual views that information except in his or her capacity as a public customer. Correspondent represents and warrants that Correspondent will not use or permit any other Professional User to access those features of the Technology Services from which they are prohibited from viewing except in their capacity as public customers.
11.18 Termination of Technology Services. Clearing Broker may restrict, block, or terminate access to the use of the Technology Services, or any component or feature thereof, without prior notice in the event such services are discontinued due to circumstances beyond Clearing Broker’s control or to avoid systems or mechanical failure or due to regulatory or legal mandate.
Section 12. Effectiveness and Termination.
12.1 Effectiveness. Subject to the approval of the NYSE and any other self-regulatory organization or entity as required under the Applicable Rules, this Agreement shall be effective as of the date first written below, and shall have an initial term of thirty six (36) months (the “Initial Term”) from the date of the first Transaction hereof unless and until terminated as hereinafter provided in this Section 12. This Agreement will automatically renew for successive periods (each, a “Renewal Term”) equal to the Initial Term unless it is terminated in accordance with the provisions of this Section 12.
12.2 Termination by Notice. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, this Agreement may be terminated without cause by either party upon ninety (90) days’ written notice to the other party. Correspondent may terminate this Agreement upon notice given sixty (60) days’ prior to any date established by Clearing Broker for the effective date of an increase in fees in accordance with Section 8.1; provided, however, that Correspondent may not terminate under this provision if an increase in fees is due to a change in third party charges that are passed on to the Correspondent or Customer.
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12.3 Termination upon Default. In the event either party defaults in the performance of their respective obligations under this Agreement, the non-defaulting party may terminate this Agreement by delivering written notice to the defaulting party specifying the nature of such default and notifying the defaulting party that the default must be cured within the following thirty (30) days. If the defaulting party fails to cure the default within the prescribed 30-day period, the Agreement shall be deemed terminated forthwith without further notice.
12.4 Immediate Termination. This Agreement shall be deemed terminated immediately in the event the Correspondent or Clearing Broker shall: (i) become or be declared insolvent; (ii) voluntarily file or be the subject of, a petition commencing a case under any chapter of Title 11 of the United States Code; (iii) make a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors; (iv) admit in writing its inability to pay its debts as they mature; (v) sell or enter into negotiations to sell all or substantially all of its assets; (vi) file an application or consent to the appointment of, or there is appointed, any receiver, or a permanent or interim trustee of that party or any of its subsidiaries, as the case may be, or all or any portion of its property, including, without limitation, the appointment or authorization of a trustee, receiver or agent under applicable law or under a contract to take charge of its property for the purpose of enforcing a lien against such property or for the purpose of general administration of such property for the benefit of its creditors; (vii) file a petition seeking a reorganization of its financial affairs or to take advantage of any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, readjustment of debt, dissolution or liquidation law or statute or file an answer admitting the material allegations of a petition filed against it in any proceeding under any such law or statute; (viii) take any corporate action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing; or (ix) determine that any statement, representation, warranty or covenant made herein or any document provided in connection with this Agreement shall be, or was at the time made, false or misleading in any material respect.
12.5 Termination by Clearing Broker. Clearing Broker may terminate this Agreement at any time upon notice to Correspondent in the event Clearing Broker determines, in its sole discretion, that: (i) there has been a material adverse change in the financial condition or results of operations of Correspondent; (ii) there has been a material adverse change in the creditworthiness of Correspondent; (iii) it has or may have Claims arising out of a breach of the obligations of the Correspondent under this Agreement, including those under Sections 3 and 8 hereof, in excess of ninety percent (90%) of the aggregate balances in the Payment Account and Deposit Account; (iv) Correspondent is not duly organized and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction pursuant to which it was formed or not qualified to do business in each state in which it does business and is required to qualify; (v) Correspondent and its employees, when so required, are not registered as a broker, dealer or agent under the applicable state “blue sky” laws and the Exchange Act; (vi) Correspondent is not a member in good standing of FINRA or any Exchange of which it is a member; or (vii) Correspondent is not in compliance with and does not maintain in excess of the minimum net capital required by Rule 15c3-1 under the Exchange Act and is not in compliance with the capital and financial reporting requirements of every Exchange and FINRA as well as all capital requirements of every state in which Correspondent is registered as a broker or dealer. Should Clearing Broker elect not to terminate this Agreement notwithstanding a default by Correspondent of any provision herein, Clearing Broker may choose to limit the availability of the Services so as to enable Clearing Broker to limit its exposure to any risks posed to Clearing Broker by the Accounts. Such limitations on Services may include, but are not limited to: 1) the refusal by Clearing Broker to accept additional orders for any Accounts or restricting orders to liquidating orders only; 2) the refusal to take or make delivery on one or more Transactions or to finance such Transactions; 3) the termination of Clearing Broker’s relationship with any Accounts; or 4) the imposition by Clearing Broker of higher Margin requirements in any or all Accounts. Any determination by Clearing Broker not to terminate this Agreement pursuant to this Section 12.5 shall not act as a waiver of Clearing Broker’s rights hereunder.
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12.6 Exclusivity. It is intended that the Agreement be exclusive to RBC CS and that Correspondent is prohibited from obtaining or using clearing services from other parties during the term of the Agreement; provided, however that Correspondent may obtain or use clearing services of a third party only to the extent that such services are not offered or made available through RBC CS. If Correspondent is in violation of this Section 12.6, Clearing Broker may terminate this agreement immediately upon notice to the Correspondent.
12.7 Effect of Termination. Any termination of this Agreement shall not release Clearing Broker or Correspondent from any liability or responsibility to the other with respect to Transactions effected prior to the effective date of the termination, whether or not claims relating to such transactions shall have been made before or after the termination.
12.8 Termination Fee. Correspondent acknowledges and agrees that the fees charged by Clearing Broker hereunder are based upon the assumption that this Agreement will remain in effect for at least the Initial Term, and that Clearing Broker would charge higher fees for periods shorter than the Initial Term. Therefore, if, for any reason, Correspondent terminates this Agreement, Clearing Broker terminates this Agreement pursuant to any breach by Correspondent of Sections 12.3, 12.5 or 12.6, or this Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 12.4 due to the action or fault of the Correspondent, then Correspondent shall pay to Clearing Broker: (a) the termination fee (the “Termination Fee”) as liquidated damages, and not as a penalty, specified on the attached Fee Schedule; and (b) the expenses of Clearing Broker in connection with transferring, converting or closing the Accounts.
Notwithstanding the foregoing right to claim liquidated damages in the form of Termination Fees and expenses in the event of termination, in the event that Correspondent is the subject of the issuance of a protective decree pursuant to the Securities Investor Protection Act of 1970 (15 USC 78aaa-III), Clearing Broker’s claim for payment of a termination fee under this Agreement shall be subordinate to claims of Correspondent’s customers that have been approved by the Trustee appointed by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation pursuant to the issuance of such protective decree.
Section 13. Arbitration
Any dispute or controversy between Correspondent and Clearing Broker relating to or arising out of this Agreement shall be settled by arbitration before and under the rules of FINRA. In the event that FINRA shall decline or refuse jurisdiction of such dispute or controversy, the arbitration shall be conducted before and under the rules of the American Arbitration Association. Any arbitration hearing shall be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Any arbitration award may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.
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Section 14. General Provisions
14.1 Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws applicable to contracts made and to be performed within the State of Minnesota.
14.2 Invalid Provisions. To the extent any provision of this Agreement is inconsistent with or in violation of an Applicable Rule, that provision shall be deemed deleted as part of this Agreement and shall not otherwise affect any other provision of this Agreement. The parties shall use their best efforts to agree upon a valid and enforceable provision which shall be a reasonable substitute for such deleted provision in light of the tenor of this Agreement. Any provision of this Agreement that is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, with respect to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without affecting the remaining provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of that provision in any other jurisdiction.
14.3 Notices. Notices shall be in writing delivered to the party at the address set forth herein or such other address as each shall designate to the other and shall be deemed given when mailed by first class mail or courier, or by facsimile transmission.
14.4 Assignment. This Agreement shall be binding upon all successors, assigns or transferees of Clearing Broker or Correspondent, irrespective of any change with regard to the name or the personnel of Clearing Broker or Correspondent. Any assignment of this Agreement shall be subject to the requisite review, approval and consent of any regulatory or self-regulatory agency or body whose review, approval and consent must be obtained prior to the effectiveness and validity of such assignment. No assignment of this Agreement by Correspondent shall be valid unless Clearing Broker consents to such an assignment in writing. Any assignment by Clearing Broker to any subsidiary that it may create or to a company affiliated with or controlled directly or indirectly by it will be deemed valid and enforceable without consent from Correspondent.
14.5 Amendments. This Agreement represents the entire Agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter contained herein. This Agreement may not be changed orally but only by an agreement in writing and signed by the party against whom enforcement of any waiver, change, modification or discharge is sought. This Agreement represents the entire agreement among the parties, and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings with respect to the subject matter contained herein. The waiver or failure to act by a party with respect to a breach by the other party of any provision of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of any subsequent breaches of that or any other provisions of this Agreement and shall not constitute an amendment of this Agreement.
14.6 Headings. The headings contained in this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not be deemed to be a part of the Agreement, or affect the meaning or interpretation of any provision of this Agreement.
14.7 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same Agreement.
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14.8 Beneficiaries. The imposition or allocation of any burden or duty on or to one or the other party by this Agreement does not and is not intended to impose or create any burden, right or duty in favor of or for the benefit of any person or entity not a party to this Agreement.
14.9 Non-Solicitation of Employees. During the term of this Agreement and for a period of three (3) years after its termination, Correspondent agrees to refrain from directly or indirectly soliciting, or causing to be solicited, any employee of Clearing Broker, or any affiliated entity or entities, for the purpose of inducing such person to become employed by or associated with Correspondent or any affiliated entity in any capacity. Any breach of this section shall be deemed a default by Correspondent entitling Clearing Broker to terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 12.3 above. In such event Correspondent shall pay the reasonable out-of-pocket expenses of Clearing Broker in connection with converting and/or closing the Accounts. During the term of this Agreement Clearing Broker and affiliated entities agree to refrain from directly or indirectly soliciting any employee of Correspondent to become employed by or associated with such firm in any capacity. Any breach of this section shall be deemed a default by Clearing Broker entitling Correspondent to terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 12.3 above. In such event Clearing Broker shall pay the reasonable out of pocket expenses of Correspondent in connection with converting and/or closing the Accounts.
14.10 Insurance. Correspondent agrees to maintain, and to provide Clearing Broker with written evidence (in the form of an insurance certificate) thereof, of a Financial Institution Bond for Broker-Dealers, Standard Form No. 14, or its equivalent, (a) in the amount of at least $500,000 covering any and all losses directly from any dishonest or fraudulent acts and/or omissions of Correspondent’s employees and agents, and (b) issued by an insurance company with an A.M. Best rating of no less than A-.
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BOTH PARTIES HERETO REPRESENT THAT THEY HAVE READ THIS AGREEMENT, UNDERSTAND IT, AGREE TO BE BOUND BY ALL TERMS AND CONDITIONS STATED HEREIN, AND ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF A SIGNED, TRUE, AND EXACT COPY OF THIS AGREEMENT.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Clearing Broker and Correspondent have executed this Agreement as of the date set forth below.
RBC CORRESPONDENT SERVICES, A DIVISION OF RBC CAPITAL MARKETS, LLC |
||
By: | /s/ Brett Thorne | |
Brett Thorne, Chief Operating Officer | ||
60 South Sixth Street | ||
Minneapolis, MN 55402 |
BENJAMIN SECURITIES, INC. | ||
By: | William T. Baker | |
Its: | /s/ William T. Baker |
750 Veterans Memorial Highway
Suite 210
Hauppauge, NY 11788
A (check one) |
☒ | Corporation | ||
☐ | Limited Partnership / General Partnership | ||
☐ | Limited Liability Company |
State of Organization: | New York |
Minimum Balance: | Clearing Deposit - $50,000 |
Clearing Broker will pay Correspondent interest monthly at | |
current money fund rates on this balance. |
Dated: | ____________, 201__ |
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Exhibit 11.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We hereby consent to the incorporation in this Registration Statement on Form 1-A of our report dated April 20, 2023, relating to the financial statements of Baker Global Asset Management, Inc. for the years ended August 31, 2022 and 2021 and to all references to our firm included in this Registration Statement.
/s/ BF Borgers CPA PC
Certified Public Accountants
Lakewood, CO
April 20, 2023
Exhibit 12
E: | lou@bevilacquapllc.com |
T: | 202.869.0888 |
W: | bevilacquapllc.com |
April 20, 2023
Baker Global Asset Management Inc.
750 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 210
Hauppauge, NY 11788
Re: | Form 1-A Offering Statement |
Ladies and Gentlemen,
We have acted as counsel to Baker Global Asset Management Inc., a New York corporation (the “Company”), in connection with the preparation and filing of the Company’s offering statement on Form 1-A under Regulation A and Section 3(6) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Act”), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on April 20, 2023 (the “Offering Statement”). The Offering Statement relates to the sale by the Company of up to 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock (the “Shares”). No opinion is expressed herein as to any matter pertaining to the contents of the Offering Statement or related offering circular (the “Offering Circular”), other than as expressly stated herein with respect to the issuance of the Shares.
In connection with this opinion, we have examined originals or copies, certified or otherwise identified to our satisfaction, of:
(a) | the Offering Statement; |
(b) | the Restated Certificate of Incorporation; |
(c) | the Bylaws of the Company; |
(d) | the form of subscription agreement related to the purchase of the Shares; and |
(e) | certain resolutions and actions of the Board of Directors and stockholders of the Company relating to the issuance and sale of the Shares pursuant to the terms of the Offering Statement, the qualification for exemption from registration of the Shares under Regulation A of the Act, and such other relevant matters. |
We also have examined originals or copies, certified or otherwise identified to our satisfaction, of such records of the Company and such agreements, certificates of public officials, certificates of officers or other representatives of the Company and others, and such other documents, certificates, and records as we have deemed necessary or appropriate as a basis for the opinions set forth herein.
1050 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 500
Washington, DC 20036
PG. 2
April 20, 2023
In our examination, we have assumed the legal capacity of all natural persons, the genuineness of all signatures, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, and the conformity to original documents of all documents submitted to us as copies. We have relied upon the accuracy and completeness of the information, factual matters, representations, and warranties contained in such documents. We have also assumed that the persons identified as officers of the Company are actually serving in such capacity and that the Offering Statement will be qualified by the Commission. In our examination of documents, we have assumed that the parties thereto, other than the Company, had the power, corporate or other, to enter into and perform all obligations thereunder and, other than with respect to the Company, the due authorization by all requisite action, corporate or other, the execution and delivery by all parties of the documents, and the validity and binding effect thereof on such parties.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion that upon the sale of the Shares as described in the Offering Statement and the receipt of payment therefor by the Company, the Shares will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable.
The opinions expressed herein are limited to the matters specifically set forth herein and no other opinion shall be inferred beyond the matters expressly stated. We disclaim any undertaking to advise you of any subsequent changes in the facts stated or assumed herein or any changes in applicable law that may come to our attention subsequent to the date the Offering Statement is declared qualified.
The opinions we express herein are limited to matters involving the New York Business Corporation Law as currently in effect. We express no opinion regarding the effect of the laws of any other jurisdiction or state. We specifically exclude any opinions regarding federal or state securities laws, including the securities laws of the State of New York, related to the issuance and sale of the Shares.
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the Offering Statement and we consent to the reference of our name under the caption “Legal Matters” in the Offering Circular forming a part of the Offering Statement. In giving the foregoing consent, we do not hereby admit that we are in the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Act or the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder.
Very truly yours, | |
/s/ BEVILACQUA PLLC |