UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

SCHEDULE 14A

 

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

   
   
Filed by the Registrant
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant
   
Check the appropriate box:
Preliminary Proxy Statement
Confidential, For Use of the Commission Only (as Permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
Definitive Proxy Statement
Definitive Additional Materials
Soliciting Material Pursuant to § 240.14a-12
     

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

(Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

 

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
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Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i) (1) and 0-11.

 

  (1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
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  (3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
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  (5) Total fee paid:

 

Fee paid previously with preliminary materials:
   
Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

 

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  (2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
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DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

201 Shipyard Way

Newport Beach, CA 92663

Telephone: (949) 444-5464

 

 

NOTICE OF 2019 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

 

We cordially invite you to attend the 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of DPW Holdings, Inc. (“ DPW ” or the “ Company ”). Our 2019 Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. PT at the Hyatt Regency, Newport Beach located at 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660. You will be able to attend the 2019 Annual Meeting and vote by visiting www.proxyvote.com if you are a beneficial owner and at www.investorvote.com/DPW if you are a registered holder. To enter the meeting, you must have your control number that is shown on the proxy card accompanying this Proxy Statement.

 

Details regarding logging onto and attending the meeting over the website and the business to be conducted are described in the Proxy Card included with this Proxy Statement. We have also made available a copy of our 2018 Annual Report with this Proxy Statement. We encourage you to read our Annual Report. It includes our audited financial statements and provides information about our business and products.

 

The purpose of the meeting is: 

 

1. To elect the six (6) director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders;

 

2. To ratify the appointment of Marcum, LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019;

 

3. To approve, on a non-binding advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers;

 

4. To approve a frequency of “Three Years” for future advisory votes on executive compensation;

 

5. To approve an amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split of our Class A Common Stock by a ratio of not less than one-for-5 and not more than one-for-40 at any time prior to July 1, 2020, with the exact ratio to be set at a whole number within this range as determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion;

 

6. To approve (i) the grant of 250,000 shares of Common Stock, which shares shall vest fifty percent upon the effective date of the agreement, with the remainder vesting ratably over 48 months beginning on June 1, 2019, and (ii) the grant of options to purchase 750,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $0.22, which option will vest ratably over 48 months, and the underlying shares of Common Stock issuable thereunder, pursuant to the terms of the Nisser Employment Agreement (defined herein) dated April 12, 2019, as subsequently amended, in order to comply with listing Rule 711 of the NYSE American;

 

7. To approve an amendment to the DPW Holdings, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “ 2018 Plan ”), which, if adopted by our stockholders, would, among other things:

 

· Increase the number of shares of our common stock that may be issued pursuant to stock-based awards made under the 2018 Plan by 6,500,000 shares for a total of 7,000,000 shares; and

 

· Enable the 2018 Plan to continue to satisfy the requirements set forth in Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the related regulations with respect to “qualified performance-based compensation”; and

 

 8.       To act on such other matters as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

  

Only stockholders of record at the close of business on May 23, 2019, will be entitled to attend and vote at the meeting. The proxy materials will be mailed to stockholders on or about June 12, 2019.

 

     
 

 

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on July 2, 2019:

 

This Proxy Statement and our 2018 Annual Report on Form 10-K

are available at www.edocumentview.com/DPW

 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

 

Milton C. Ault III

Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board

 

June 7, 2019 

 

 

HOW TO VOTE : Your vote is important. Whether or not you plan to attend the annual meeting, please vote as soon as possible by either (1) mailing your completed and signed proxy card(s) to DPW Holdings, Inc., 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663, Attention: Corporate Secretary, (2) calling the toll-free number printed on your proxy card(s) and following the recorded instructions or (3) visiting the website indicated on your proxy card(s) and following the on-line instructions. You may revoke a previously submitted proxy at any time prior to the annual meeting. If you decide to attend the annual meeting and wish to change your proxy vote, you may do so automatically by voting in person at the annual meeting.

 

     
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  Page
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE ANNUAL MEETING 1
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALS AND VOTING 3
PROPOSAL NO. 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS 9
Information about the Nominees 9
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings 11
Family Relationships 12
Board Independence 12
Stockholder Communications with the Board 12
Meetings and Committees of the Board 12
Board Committees 13
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance 14
Code of Ethics 14
Director Compensation 15
Required Vote and Board Recommendation 16
PROPOSAL NO. 2: RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC
ACCOUNTING FIRM
17
Review of the Company’s Audited Financial Statements for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018 17
Fees Paid to Auditors 17
Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures 18
REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 19
Required Vote and Board Recommendation  19
PROPOSAL NO. 3:  APPROVAL, ON A NON-BINDING ADVISORY BASIS, OF THE COMPENSATION OF OUR
NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS  
20
Reasons for this Proposal  
What does it mean to have a “say-on-pay” advisory vote? 20
Where can I find more information on executive compensation? 20
What are some of the performance and compensation program highlights for 2018? 20
Required Vote and Board Recommendation  20
PROPOSAL NO. 4:  APPROVAL OF A FREQUENCY OF “THREE YEARS” FOR FUTURE ADVISORY VOTES ON
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
21
Background and Reasons for this Proposal 21
Required Vote and Board Recommendation  21
PROPOSAL NO. 5: AMENDMENT TO THE COMPANY’S CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO
EFFECT A REVERSE STOCK SPLIT OF COMMON STOCK
22
Background and Reasons for the Reverse Stock Split; Potential Consequences of the Reverse Stock Split 22
Procedure for Implementing the Reverse Stock Split  24
Effect of the Reverse Stock Split on Holders of Outstanding Common Stock  24
Beneficial Holders of Common Stock (i.e. stockholders who hold in street name) 25
Registered “Book-Entry” Holders of Common Stock (i.e. stockholders that are registered on the transfer agent’s books
and records but do not hold stock certificates) 
25
Holders of Certificated Shares of Common Stock  25
Fractional Shares 25
Effect of the Reverse Stock Split on Employee Plans, Options, Restricted Stock Awards, Warrants and Convertible or
Exchangeable Securities 
26
Accounting Matters  26
Certain Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Reverse Stock Split  26
U.S. Holders  27
No Appraisal Rights  27
Vote Required to Approve the Amendment and Recommendation  27
PROPOSAL NO. 6:  APPROVAL OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT’S
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT DATED APRIL 12, 2019
28
Terms of the Transaction  
Why the Company Needs Stockholder Approval 28
Effect of Proposal on Current Stockholders 29
Further Information 29
Required Vote and Board Recommendation 29

 

     
 

 

PROPOSAL NO. 7: APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO THE 2018 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN, AS AMENDED AND
RESTATED AS OF MAY 13, 2019
30
Overview 30
Summary of the 2018 Stock Incentive Plan, Amended and Restated as of May 13, 2019 30
Types of Awards 33
New Plan Benefits under the 2018 Stock Incentive Plan, Amended and Restated as of May 13, 2019 35
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations 36
Required Vote and Board Recommendation 37
INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXECUTIVE OFFICERS 38
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 38
Summary Compensation Table 38
Employment Agreement with Milton C. Ault, III 39
Employment Agreement with William B. Horne 40
Employment Agreement with Amos Kohn 41
Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation 42
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End 42
Stock Option Plans 43
401(k) Plan 43
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT 43
Equity Compensation Plan Information 44
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS 45
PROPOSALS OF STOCKHOLDERS FOR THE 2020 ANNUAL MEETING 47
OTHER BUSINESS 48
APPENDIX A – ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018 A-1
APPENDIX B – 2018 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN, AS AMENDED AND RESTATED B-1

 

     
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

201 Shipyard Way

Newport Beach, CA 92663

Telephone: (949) 444-5464

 

DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT

 

FOR THE 2019 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

 

TO BE HELD ON JULY 2, 2019

 

INFORMATION CONCERNING THE ANNUAL MEETING

 

General

 

The enclosed proxy is solicited by the Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) of DPW Holdings, Inc. (the “ Company ” or “ DPW ”), for use at the 2019 Annual Meeting of the Company’s stockholders (the “ Meeting ”) to be held on July 2, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. PT at the Hyatt Regency, Newport Beach located at 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660. You will be able to attend the Meeting and vote by visiting www.proxyvote.com if you are a beneficial owner and at www.investorvote.com/DPW if you are a registered holder. To enter the Meeting, you must have your control number that is shown on the proxy card accompanying this Proxy Statement.

 

Action to be taken under Proxy

 

Unless otherwise directed by the giver of the proxy, the persons named in the form of proxy, namely, Milton C. Ault, III, our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, and William B. Horne, our Chief Financial Officer, or either one of them who acts, will vote:

 

· FOR the election of the six (6) director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders;

 

· FOR ratification of the appointment of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019;

 

· FOR approval, on a non-binding advisory basis, of the compensation of our named executive officers;

 

· FOR approval of a frequency of “Three Years” for future advisory votes on executive compensation;

 

· FOR approval of an amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split of our Class A Common Stock by a ratio of not less than one-for-5 and not more than one-for-40 at any time prior to July 1, 2020, with the exact ratio to be set at a whole number within this range as determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion;

 

· FOR approval of (i) the grant of 250,000 shares of Common Stock, which shares shall vest fifty percent upon the effective date of the agreement, with the remainder vesting ratably over 48 months beginning on June 1, 2019, and (ii) the grant of options to purchase 750,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $0.22, which option will vest ratably over 48 months, and the underlying shares of Common Stock issuable thereunder, pursuant to the terms of the Nisser Employment Agreement (defined herein) dated April 12, 2019, as subsequently amended, in order to comply with listing Rule 711 of the NYSE American;

 

· FOR approval of an amendment (“ Stock Plan Amendment ”) to the DPW Holdings, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “ 2018 Plan ”), which, if adopted by our stockholders, would, among other things:

 

   - 1 -  
 

 

· Increase the number of shares of our common stock that may be issued pursuant to stock-based awards made under the 2018 Plan by 6,500,000 shares to a total of 7,000,000 shares; and

 

· Enable the 2018 Plan to continue to satisfy the requirements set forth in Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the related regulations with respect to “qualified performance-based compensation”; and

 

· In their discretion, on any other matter as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

 

Should any nominee named herein for election as a director become unavailable for any reason, it is intended that the persons named in the proxy will vote for the election of such other person in his stead as may be designated by the Board. The Board is not aware of any reason that might cause any nominee to be unavailable.

 

By submitting your proxy (via the Internet, telephone or mail), you authorize Mr. Milton C. “Todd” Ault, III, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. William B. Horne, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, to represent you and vote your shares at the meeting in accordance with your instructions. They also may vote your shares to adjourn the meeting and will be authorized to vote your shares at any postponements or adjournments of the meeting.

 

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO LOG INTO THE MEETING, PLEASE PROMPTLY VOTE YOUR SHARES OVER THE INTERNET, BY TELEPHONE OR BY MAIL.

 

Who is Entitled to Vote; Vote Required; Quorum

 

As of the Record Date of May 23, 2019, there were 37,735,115 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding, 7,040 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding and 125,000 shares of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding, which constitute all of the outstanding capital stock of the Company. Stockholders are entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held by them. The 125,000 shares of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock carry the voting power of 0.24% of all votes entitled to be voted at the Meeting.

 

A majority of the 37,824,401 outstanding shares of capital stock will constitute a quorum at the Meeting.

 

Brokers holding shares of record for customers generally are not entitled to vote on “non-routine” matters, unless they receive voting instructions from their customers. As used herein, “uninstructed shares” means shares held by a broker who has not received such instructions from its customers on a proposal. A “broker non-vote” occurs when a nominee holding uninstructed shares for a beneficial owner does not vote on a particular proposal because the nominee does not have discretionary voting power with respect to that non-routine matter. In connection with the treatment of abstentions and broker non-votes, all but one of the proposals at this are considered “non-routine” matters, and brokers are not entitled to vote uninstructed shares with respect to these proposals. Only the proposal to ratify the appointment of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, is a routine matter that brokers are entitled to vote upon without receiving instructions.

 

Determination of whether a matter specified in the Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders has been approved will be determined as follows:

 

· Those persons will be elected directors who receive a plurality of the votes cast at the Meeting in person or by proxy and entitled to vote on the election. Accordingly, abstentions or directions to withhold authority will have no effect on the outcome of the vote; and

  

· For each other matter specified in the Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of capital stock present at the meeting in person or by proxy and entitled to vote on such matter is required for approval. Abstentions will be considered shares present by proxy and entitled to vote and, therefore, will have the effect of a vote against the matter. Broker non-votes will be considered shares not present for this purpose and will have no effect on the outcome of the vote.

 

Directions to withhold authority to vote for directors, abstentions and broker non-votes will be counted for purposes of determining whether a quorum is present for the Meeting.

 

   - 2 -  
 

 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALS AND VOTING

 

What is the purpose of the 2019 Annual Meeting?

 

At the 2019 Annual Meeting, the stockholders will be asked:

 

1. To elect the six (6) director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders;

 

2. To ratify the appointment of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019;

 

3. To approve, on a non-binding advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers;

 

4. To approve a frequency of “Three Years” for future advisory votes on executive compensation;

 

5. To approve an amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split of our Class A Common Stock by a ratio of not less than one-for-5 and not more than one-for-40 at any time prior to July 1, 2020, with the exact ratio to be set at a whole number within this range as determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion;

 

6. To approve (i) the grant of 250,000 shares of Common Stock, which shares shall vest fifty percent upon the effective date of the agreement, with the remainder vesting ratably over 48 months beginning on June 1, 2019, and (ii) the grant of options to purchase 750,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $0.22, which option will vest ratably over 48 months, and the underlying shares of Common Stock issuable thereunder, pursuant to the terms of the Nisser Employment Agreement (defined herein) dated April 12, 2019, as subsequently amended, in order to comply with listing Rule 711 of the NYSE American;

 

7. To approve an amendment (the “ Stock Plan Amendment ”) to the DPW Holdings, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “ 2018 Plan ”), which if adopted by our stockholders, would, among other things:

 

· Increase the number of shares of our common stock that may be issued pursuant to stock-based awards made under the 2018 Plan by 6,500,000 shares to a total of 7,000,000 shares; and

 

· Enable the 2018 Plan to continue to satisfy the requirements set forth in Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the related regulations with respect to “qualified performance-based compensation”; and

  

8. To act on such other matters as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

  

Who is entitled to vote?

 

The Record Date for the meeting is May 23, 2019. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date are entitled to vote at the meeting. The only class of stock entitled to be voted at the meeting is our Common stock and Series B Convertible Preferred Stock. On the Record Date, there were 37,735,115 shares of Common Stock outstanding; and 125,000 shares of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote. The issued and outstanding shares of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock carry the voting power of 89,286 shares of Common Stock.

 

Why am I receiving these materials?

 

We have sent you these proxy materials because the Board of DPW Holdings, Inc. (sometimes referred to as the “ Company ,” “ DPW ,” “ we ” or “ us ”) is soliciting your proxy to vote at the Meeting of Stockholders. According to our records, you were a stockholder of the Company as of the end of business on May 23, 2019, the Record Date for the Meeting.

 

   - 3 -  
 

 

You are invited to vote on the proposals described in this proxy statement.

 

The Company intends to mail these proxy materials on or about June 12, 2019, to all stockholders of record on the Record Date.

   

What is included in these materials?

 

These materials include:

 

· this Proxy Statement for the Meeting;

 

· our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018; and

 

· The 2018 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated as of May 13, 2019.

 

What is the proxy card?

 

The proxy card enables you to appoint Milton C. “Todd” Ault, III, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and William B. Horne, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, as your representative at the Meeting. By completing and returning a proxy card, you are authorizing these individuals to vote your shares at the Meeting in accordance with your instructions on the proxy card. This way, your shares will be voted whether or not you log in to the Meeting.

 

Can I view these proxy materials over the Internet?

 

Yes. The Notice of Meeting, this Proxy Statement and accompanying proxy card, our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, and the other documents appended hereto are available at www.edocumentview.com/DPW.

 

How do I vote?

 

Either (1) mail your completed and signed proxy card(s) to DPW Holdings, Inc., 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663, Attention: Corporate Secretary, (2) call the toll-free number printed on your proxy card(s) and follow the recorded instructions or (3) visit the website indicated on your proxy card(s) and follow the on-line instructions. If you are a registered stockholder and attend the meeting, then you may deliver your completed proxy card(s) or vote in person. If your shares are held by your broker or bank, in “street name”, then you will receive a form from your broker or bank seeking instructions as to how your shares should be voted. If you do not instruct your broker or bank how to vote, then your broker or bank will vote your shares if it has discretionary power to vote on a particular matter.

 

Am I entitled to vote if my shares are held in “street name”?

 

If your shares are held by a bank, brokerage firm or other nominee, you are considered the “beneficial owner” of shares held in “street name.” If your shares are held in street name, the proxy materials are being made available to you by your bank, brokerage firm or other nominee (the “ record holder ”), along with voting instructions. As the beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your record holder how to vote your shares, and the record holder is required to vote your shares in accordance with your instructions. If you do not give instructions to your record holder, it will nevertheless be entitled to vote your shares in its discretion on the ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public accounting firm (Proposal No. 2), but not on any other proposal.

 

As the beneficial owner of shares, you are invited to log in to the Meeting. If you are a beneficial owner, however, you may not vote your shares at the meeting unless you obtain a legal proxy, executed in your favor, from the record holder of your shares.

 

You will be able to attend the Meeting, vote, and submit your questions during the meeting via live webcast by visiting www.proxyvote.com if you are a beneficial owner and hold your shares in “street” name and at www.investorvote.com/DPW if you are a registered holder.

 

   - 4 -  
 

 

How many shares must be present to hold the meeting?

 

A quorum must be present at the meeting for any business to be conducted. The presence at the meeting, by logging in to www.virtualstockholdermeeting.com/DPW2019 or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the shares of capital stock outstanding on the Record Date will constitute a quorum. Proxies received but marked as abstentions or treated as broker non-votes will be included in the calculation of the number of shares considered to be present at the meeting.

 

What if a quorum is not present at the meeting?

 

If a quorum is not present or represented at the meeting, the holders of a majority of the shares of capital stock entitled to vote at the meeting who are present in person or represented by proxy, or the chairman of the meeting, may adjourn the meeting until a quorum is present or represented. The time and place of the adjourned meeting will be announced at the time the adjournment is taken, and no other notice will be given.

 

Is there a deadline for submitting proxies electronically or by telephone or mail?

 

Proxies submitted electronically or by telephone as described above must be received by 11:59 pm PT on July 1, 2019. Proxies submitted by mail should be received before 9:00 a.m. PT on July 2, 2019.

 

Can I revoke my proxy and change my vote?

 

You may change your vote at any time prior to the taking of the vote at the meeting. If you are the stockholder of record, you may change your vote by (1) granting a new proxy bearing a later date (which automatically revokes the earlier proxy) using any of the methods described above (and until the applicable deadline for each method), (2) providing a written notice of revocation to the Company’s CEO at DPW Holdings, Inc., 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663, prior to your shares being voted, or (3) attending the meeting and voting. Attendance at the meeting will not cause your previously granted proxy to be revoked unless you specifically so request. For shares you hold beneficially in street name, you may change your vote by submitting new voting instructions to your broker, bank, trustee or nominee following the instructions they provided, or, if you have obtained a legal proxy from your broker, bank, trustee or nominee giving you the right to vote your shares, by attending the meeting and voting.

 

Who can participate in the meeting?

 

Only stockholders eligible to vote or their authorized representatives in possession of a valid control number will be admitted as participants to the meeting.

 

Will my vote be kept confidential?

 

Yes, your vote will be kept confidential and not disclosed to the Company unless:

 

required by law;

 

you expressly request disclosure on your proxy; or

 

there is a proxy contest.

 

How does the Board of Directors recommend I vote on the proposals?

 

Our Board recommends that you vote your shares as follows:

 

FOR ” the election of each of the six (6) nominees for director;

 

FOR ” the ratification of the appointment of Marcum LLP, as independent registered public accountants of the Company for its fiscal year ending December 31, 2019;

 

   - 5 -  
 

 

FOR ” the approval, on a non-binding advisory basis, of the compensation of our named executive officers;

 

FOR ” approval of a frequency of “Three Years” for future advisory votes on executive compensation;

 

FOR ” approval of an amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split of our Class A Common Stock by a ratio of not less than one-for-5 and not more than one-for-40 at any time prior to July 1, 2020, with the exact ratio to be set at a whole number within this range as determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion;

 

FOR ” approval of (i) the grant of 250,000 shares of Common Stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning on June 1, 2019, and (ii) the grant of options to purchase 750,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $0.22, which option will vest ratably over 48 months, and the underlying shares of Common Stock issuable thereunder, pursuant to the terms of the Nisser Employment Agreement (defined herein) dated April 12, 2019, in order to comply with listing Rule 711 of the NYSE American; and

 

FOR ” approval of an amendment (the “ Stock Plan Amendment ”) to the DPW Holdings, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “ 2018 Plan ”), which if adopted by our stockholders, would, among other things:

 

· Increase the number of shares of our common stock that may be issued pursuant to stock-based awards made under the 2018 Plan by 6,500,000 shares to a total of 7,000,000 shares; and

 

· Enable the 2018 Plan to continue to satisfy the requirements set forth in Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the related regulations with respect to “qualified performance-based compensation.”

 

· In their discretion, on any other matter as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

  

 Unless you provide other instructions on your proxy card, the persons named as proxy holders on the proxy card will vote in accordance with the recommendations of the Board as set forth in this Proxy Statement.

 

What if I do not specify how my shares are to be voted?

 

If you return a signed and dated proxy card without marking any voting selections, your shares will be voted in accordance with the Board’s recommended votes set forth immediately above, and if any other matter is properly presented at the meeting, your proxy holder (one of the individuals named on your proxy card) will vote your shares using his best judgment.

  

Will any other business be conducted at the meeting?

 

The Company’s bylaws require stockholders to give advance notice of any proposal intended to be presented at the meeting. The deadline for this notice has passed and we have not received any such notices. If any other matter properly comes before the stockholders for a vote at the meeting, however, the proxy holders will vote your shares in accordance with their best judgment.

 

How many votes are needed to approve each proposal?

 

For the election of directors, each of the six (6) nominees receiving “ For ” votes at the meeting in person or by proxy will be elected. Approval of all other matters requires the favorable vote of a majority of the votes cast on the applicable proposal at the Meeting, other than the amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation, which requires the favorable vote of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock.

 

   - 6 -  
 

 

How will abstentions be treated?

 

Abstentions will be treated as shares present for quorum purposes and entitled to vote, but will have no impact on votes cast as none of the Proposals requires the favorable vote of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock, except for the amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation, in which case an abstention will have the same effect as votes against the proposal.

 

What are “broker non-votes”?

 

Broker non-votes occur when a beneficial owner of shares held in “street name” does not give instructions to the broker or nominee holding the shares as to how to vote on matters deemed “non-routine.” Generally, if shares are held in street name, the beneficial owner of the shares is entitled to give voting instructions to the broker or nominee holding the shares. If the beneficial owner does not provide voting instructions, the broker or nominee can still vote the shares with respect to matters that are considered to be “routine,” but not with respect to “non-routine” matters. Under the rules and interpretations of the New York Stock Exchange, “non-routine” matters include director elections (whether contested or uncontested) and matters involving a contest or a matter that may substantially affect the rights or privileges of stockholders.

 

In connection with the treatment of abstentions and broker non-votes, the proposals at this meeting to (i) elect directors, (ii) approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers, (iii) approval a frequency of “Three Years” for future advisory votes on executive compensation; (iv) approve the Nisser Employment Agreement, and (v) the amendment to the 2018 Stock Incentive Plan, are considered “non-routine” matters, and brokers are not entitled to vote uninstructed shares with respect to these proposals. The proposals to (a) ratify the appointment of Marcum, LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm and (b) approve the amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split are routine matters that brokers are entitled to vote upon without receiving instructions.

 

Who is paying for this proxy solicitation?

 

We will pay for the entire cost of soliciting proxies. In addition to these mailed proxy materials, our directors and employees may also solicit proxies in person, by telephone or by other means of communication. The Board has engaged Kingsdale Advisors to assist in the solicitation of proxies for a fee of $8,100, plus an additional per holder fee for any solicitation of individual holders and reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses. Directors and employees will not be paid any additional compensation for soliciting proxies but may be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the solicitation. We will also reimburse brokerage firms, banks and other agents for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in forwarding proxy materials to beneficial owners.

 

What does it mean if I receive more than one set of proxy materials?

 

If you receive more than one set of proxy materials, your shares may be registered in more than one name or in different accounts. Please complete, sign and return each proxy card to ensure that all of your shares are voted.

 

I share the same address with another stockholder of the Company. Why has our household only received one set of proxy materials?

 

The Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“ SEC’s ”) rules permit us to deliver a single set of proxy materials to one address shared by two or more of our stockholders. This practice, known as “householding,” is intended to reduce the Company’s printing and postage costs. We have delivered only one set of proxy materials to stockholders who hold their shares through a bank, broker or other holder of record and share a single address, unless we received contrary instructions from any stockholder at that address.

 

How can I find out the results of the voting at the Meeting?

 

Final voting results will be disclosed in a Form 8-K filed after the Meeting.

 

   - 7 -  
 

 

Who can help answer my questions?

 

You can contact our corporate headquarters, at DPW Holdings, Inc., 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663, by sending a letter to Milton C. “Todd” Ault, III, our Chief Executive Officer, with any questions about the proposal described in this proxy statement or how to execute your vote. In addition, you can also contact:

 

Kingsdale Advisors

Telephone (toll-free in North America): (866) 851-2638

Telephone (outside of North America): (416) 867-2272

E-mail: contactus@kingsdaleadvisors.com

 

   - 8 -  
 

 

PROPOSAL NO. 1

 

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

 

Information about the Nominees

 

At the Meeting, the stockholders will elect six (6) directors to serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders or until their respective successors are elected and qualified. In the event any nominee is unable or unwilling to serve as a director at the time of the Meeting, the proxies may be voted for the balance of those nominees named and for any substitute nominee designated by the present Board or the proxy holders to fill such vacancy, or for the balance of the nominees named without nomination of a substitute, or the size of the Board may be reduced in accordance with the Bylaws of the Company. The Board has no reason to believe that any of the persons named below will be unable or unwilling to serve as a nominee or as a director if elected.

 

Assuming a quorum is present, the six (6) nominees receiving the highest number of affirmative votes of shares entitled to be voted for them will be elected as directors of the Company for the ensuing year. Unless marked otherwise, proxies received will be voted “FOR” the election of each of the eight nominees named below. In the event that additional persons are nominated for election as directors, the proxy holders intend to vote all proxies received by them in such a manner as will ensure the election of as many of the nominees listed below as possible, and, in such event, the specific nominees to be voted for will be determined by the proxy holders. All of the director nominees currently serve as directors.

 

Name* Age Current Position
Milton C. Ault, III (1) 49 Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
William B. Horne  (2) 50 Chief Financial Officer and Director
Amos Kohn 58 President and Director
Robert O. Smith  (3) (5) 75 Director
Moti Rosenberg  (5) 72 Director
Jeffrey A. Bentz (4) (5) 59 Director

 

*       Pursuant to a Securities Purchase Agreement dated September 5, 2016, by and among the Company, Philou Ventures, LLC, a Wyoming limited liability company (“ Philou Ventures ”), and Telkoor Telecom Ltd., an Israeli company, Philou Ventures has the right to designate one director to the Board.

  

(1) Effective March 16, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed to the Board.
(2) On October 13, 2016, William B. Horne was appointed to the Board. Pursuant to a securities purchase agreement dated September 5, 2016 by and among the Company, Philou Ventures, and Telkoor, Philou Ventures has the right to appoint four members to the Board.
(3) On September 22, 2016, Mr. Robert O. Smith was appointed to the Board.
(4) On January 24, 2018, Mr. Jeffrey A. Bentz was appointed to the Board.
(5) Independent Director and Member of the Audit, Compensation and Nominating and Governance Committees.

 

The following information with respect to the principal occupation or employment of each nominee for director, the principal business of the corporation or other organization in which such occupation or employment is carried on, and such nominee’s business experience during the past five years, as well as the specific experiences, qualifications, attributes and skills that have led the Board to determine that such Board members should serve on our Board, has been furnished to the Company by the respective director nominees:

 

   - 9 -  
 

 

Milton C. Ault, III

On March 16, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed Executive Chairman of the Board and on December 28, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Ault entered into an employment agreement with us on June 17, 2018. Mr. Ault is a seasoned business professional and entrepreneur who has spent more than twenty-seven years identifying value in various financial markets including equities, fixed income, commodities, and real estate. On February 25, 2016, Mr. Ault founded Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’s Disease and has served as its Chairman ever since. Mr. Ault has served as Chairman of Ault & Company, Inc., a Delaware holding company, since December 2015, and as Chairman of Avalanche International Corp., a publicly traded Nevada company and a “voluntary filer,” which as such is not required to file periodic reports, since September 2014. Since January 2011, Mr. Ault has been the Vice President of Business Development for MCKEA Holdings, LLC, a family office. Throughout his career, Mr. Ault has consulted for a few publicly traded and privately held companies, providing each of them the benefit of his diversified experience, that range from development stage to seasoned businesses. We believe that Mr. Ault’s business background demonstrates he has the qualifications to serve as one of our directors and as Chairman.

 

Amos Kohn

Mr. Kohn has served as a member of our board of directors since 2003 and as our President since 2008. Mr. Kohn also served as our Chief Executive Officer from 2008 to December 2017. From March 2011 until August 2013 and again from July 2017 until January 2018, Mr. Kohn also served as our interim Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Kohn has more than 20 years of successful global executive management experience, including multiple C-level roles across private and established publicly-traded companies. Mr. Kohn has successfully managed cross-functional teams, driven corporations to high profitability, built customer loyalty and led businesses through expansion and sustained growth. His areas of expertise include operations, technology innovation, manufacturing, strategic analysis and planning and M&A. Mr. Kohn holds a degree in electrical and electronics engineering and is named as an inventor on several United States and international patents. We believe that Mr. Kohn’s extensive executive-level management experience in diversified industries, including, but not limited to, power electronics, telecommunications, cable television, broadcast and wireless, as well as his service as a director on our board since 2003, provide him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

William B. Horne

Mr. Horne has served as a member of our board of directors since October 2016. Prior to his appointment as our Chief Financial Officer on January 25, 2018, Mr. Horne served as one of our independent directors. He served as the Chief Financial Officer of Targeted Medical Pharma, Inc., a publicly traded biotechnology pharmaceutical company (OTCBB: TRGM), from August 2013 to May 2019. Mr. Horne is a director of and Chief Financial Officer to Avalanche International, Corp., a publicly traded Nevada corporation and a “voluntary filer,” which as such is not required to file periodic reports, since June 25, 2016, and Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, since June 1, 2016. Throughout his career, Mr. Horne has served as Chief Financial Officer for a few publicly traded and privately held companies, and has also held supervisory positions at Price Waterhouse, LLP. He has a Bachelor of Arts Magna Cum Laude in Accounting from Seattle University. We believe that Mr. Horne's extensive financial and accounting experience in diversified industries and with companies involving complex transactions give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

Robert O. Smith

Mr. Smith serves as one of our independent directors. Previously, he served as a member of our Board of Directors from November 2010 until May 2015, and served as a member of our Advisory Board from 2002 until 2015. He is currently a C-level executive consultant working with Bay Area high-tech firms on various strategic initiatives in all aspects of their business. From 2004 to 2007, he served on the Board of Directors of Castelle Corporation. From 1990 to 2002, he was our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. From 1980 to 1990, he held several management positions with Computer Products, Inc., the most recent being President of their Compower/Boschert Division. From 1970 to 1980, he held managerial accounting positions with Ametek/Lamb Electric and with the JM Smucker Company. Mr. Smith received his BBA degree in Accounting from Ohio University. We believe that Mr. Smith’s executive-level experience, including his previous service as our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, his extensive experience in the accounting industry, and his service on our Board from November 2010 until May 2015, give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

Mordechai Rosenberg

Mr. Rosenberg serves as one of our independent directors. He has served as an independent consultant to various companies in the design and implementation of homeland security systems in Europe and Africa since 2010. From 2004 to 2009, he served as a special consultant to Bullet Plate Ltd., a manufacturer of armor protection systems, and NovIdea Ltd., a manufacturer of perimeter and border security systems. From 2000 to 2003, Mr. Rosenberg was the general manager of ZIV U.P.V.C Products Ltd.'s doors and window factory. Mr. Rosenberg is an active reserve officer and a retired colonel from the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), where he served for 26 years and was involved in the development of weapon systems. In the IDF, Mr. Rosenberg served in various capacities, including platoon, company, battalion and brigade commander, head of the training center for all IDF infantry, and head of the Air Force's Special Forces. Mr. Rosenberg received a B.A in History from the University of Tel Aviv and a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Haifa in Israel. We believe that Mr. Rosenberg’s business background give him the qualifications to serve as one of our directors. 

 

   - 10 -  
 

 

Jeffrey A. Bentz

Mr. Bentz is an experienced businessman who has served since 1994 as President of North Star Terminal & Stevedore Company, a full-service stevedoring company located in Alaska and whose major areas of business include terminal operations and management, stevedore services, and heavy equipment operations. He also has served as a director and advisor to several private companies and agencies. Mr. Bentz obtained a B.A. in Business and Finance from Western Washington University in 1981. We believe that Mr. Bentz’s executive-level experience, including his operational and financial oversight of companies with multiple profit centers and his extensive experience in the real estate and commercial services industries give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

Directors serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders or until their successors are elected and qualified. Officers serve at the discretion of the Board.

 

Status of Certain Issuers with which Messrs. Ault and Horne Are Involved.

 

Avalanche International Corp .

 

As of the Record Date, Avalanche had not filed its (i) Annual Reports on Form 10-K for its fiscal years ended November 30, 2016 or November 30, 2017, or (ii) its Quarterly Reports for its fiscal quarters ended February 28, 2017, May 31, 2017, August 31, 2017, February 28, 2018, May 31, 2018, or August 31, 2018. While Avalanche is a “voluntary filer,” it has not filed a Form 15, nor does it intend to.

 

As of the Record Date, Avalanche had 6 employees and 2 principal consultants, total assets of approximately $20.0 million, total liabilities of approximately $23.0 million, total stockholders’ deficit of approximately $3.0 million, total annual revenues of approximately $250,000 and total annual expenses of approximately $2.4 million for a net loss of $2.2 million. None of the foregoing figures has been audited.

 

  Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

 

Except as disclosed below, to our knowledge, none of our current directors or executive officers has, during the past ten years:

 

been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);

 

had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against the business or property of the person, or of any partnership, corporation or business association of which he or she was a general partner or executive officer, either at the time of the bankruptcy filing or within two years prior to that time;

 

been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction or federal or state authority, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting, his or her involvement in any type of business, securities, futures, commodities, investment, banking, savings and loan, or insurance activities, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity;

 

been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated;

 

been the subject of, or a party to, any federal or state judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated (not including any settlement of a civil proceeding among private litigants), relating to an alleged violation of any federal or state securities or commodities law or regulation, any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order, or any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity; or

 

   - 11 -  
 

 

been the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.

 

1.       Mr. Ault held series 7, 24, and 63 licenses and managed four domestic hedge funds and one bond fund from 1998 through 2008. On April 26, 2012, as a result from an investigation by FINRA involving activities during 2008, Mr. Ault agreed to a settlement with FINRA in which he did not admit to any liability or violation of any laws or regulatory rules and that included restitution and a suspension from association with a FINRA member firm for a period of two years. As part of that settlement, Mr. Ault agreed that he would make restitution to certain investors. Mr. Ault did not within the prescribed time period make a restitution payment to certain of the investors as he was unable to locate all of them, nor did he forward the undistributed restitution in the state where the investor was known to have resided, as directed by FINRA.

 

2.       Mr. Ault was CEO, President and Chairman of Zealous Holdings, Inc., which filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the “ Bankruptcy Code ”) on February 20, 2009, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California. This Chapter 11 filing was subsequently converted to a Chapter 7 filing by order of the Bankruptcy Court. Zealous Holdings, Inc. was not an entity that was entitled to a discharge under the bankruptcy code. As such Zealous Holdings, Inc. did not receive a discharge. Ultimately, Zealous Holdings, Inc. ceased doing business and was permanently closed.

 

3.       Mr. Ault filed for bankruptcy protection under the Bankruptcy Code on December 8, 2009, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California. This Chapter 13 filing was subsequently converted to a Chapter 7 filing by order of the Bankruptcy Court and months later, the petition being withdrawn and dismissed without prejudice.

 

Except as set forth in our discussion below in “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” none of our directors or executive officers has been involved in any transactions with us or any of our directors, executive officers, affiliates or associates which are required to be disclosed pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. 

 

Family Relationships.

 

None.

 

Board Independence

 

Our Board has undertaken a review of the independence of each director and director nominee and has determined that Messrs. Smith, Bentz and Rosenberg are independent, and that each director who serves on or is nominated for each of its committees is independent, as such term is defined by standards of the SEC and the NYSE American. None of Messrs. Horne, Kohn or Ault meets the independence standards.

 

Stockholder Communications with the Board

 

The Company’s stockholders may communicate with the Board, including non-executive directors or officers, by sending written communications addressed to such person or persons in care of DPW Holdings, Inc., Attention: Secretary, 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663. All communications will be compiled by the Secretary and submitted to the addressee. If the Board modifies this process, the revised process will be posted on the Company’s website.

 

Meetings and Committees of the Board

 

During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, the Board held 18 meetings and acted by unanimous written consent 29 times, the Audit Committee held 3 meetings, the Nominating and Governance Committee held no meetings and the Compensation Committee held 4 meetings. The Board and Board committees also approved certain actions by unanimous written consent. We encourage, but do not require, our Board members to attend the annual meeting of stockholders. Two directors attended our 2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

 

   - 12 -  
 

 

Board Committees

 

The Board has standing Audit and Compensation and Nominating and Governance Committees. Information concerning the membership and function of each committee is as follows:

 

Name     Audit
Committee
 

Compensation

Committee

  Nominating and
Governance Committee
Amos Kohn              
Milton “Todd” Ault, III              
William Horne              
Robert O. Smith     ** ***   *   *
Jeffrey A. Bentz     *   *   *
Moti Rosenberg     *   *   **

 

* Member of Committee

** Chairman of Committee

*** “Audit committee financial expert” as defined in SEC regulations.

 

Audit Committee

 

Messrs. Smith, Rosenberg and Bentz currently comprise the Audit Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Audit Committee satisfies the requirements for independence and financial literacy under the standards of the SEC and the NYSE American. Our Board has also determined that Mr. Smith qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in SEC regulations and satisfies the financial sophistication requirements set forth in the NYSE American Rules. Mr. Smith serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee.

 

The Audit Committee is responsible for, among other things, selecting and hiring our independent auditors, approving the audit and pre-approving any non-audit services to be performed by our independent auditors; reviewing the scope of the annual audit undertaken by our independent auditors and the progress and results of their work; reviewing our financial statements, internal accounting and auditing procedures, and corporate programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws; and reviewing the services performed by our independent auditors to determine if the services rendered are compatible with maintaining the independent auditors’ impartial opinion. The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed with management the Company’s audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

Compensation Committee

 

Messrs. Smith, Rosenberg and Bentz currently comprise the Compensation Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Compensation Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American. Mr. Smith serves as Chairman of the Compensation Committee.

 

The Compensation Committee is responsible for, among other things, reviewing and approving executive compensation policies and practices; reviewing and approving salaries, bonuses and other benefits paid to our officers, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer; and administering our stock option plans and other benefit plans.

 

Nominating and Governance Committee

 

Messrs. Smith, Rosenberg and Bentz currently comprise the Nominating and Governance Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Nominating and Governance Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American. Mr. Rosenberg serves as Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee.

 

   - 13 -  
 

 

The Nominating and Governance Committee is responsible for, among other things, assisting our Board in identifying prospective director nominees and recommending nominees for each annual meeting of stockholders to the Board; developing and recommending governance principles applicable to our Board; overseeing the evaluation of our Board and management; and recommending potential members for each Board committee to our Board.

 

The Nominating and Governance Committee considers diversity when identifying Board candidates. In particular, it considers such criteria as a candidate’s broad-based business and professional skills, experiences and global business and social perspective.

 

In addition, the Committee seeks directors who exhibit personal integrity and a concern for the long-term interests of stockholders, as well as those who have time available to devote to Board activities and to enhancing their knowledge of the power-supply industry. Accordingly, we seek to attract and retain highly qualified directors who have sufficient time to attend to their substantial duties and responsibilities.

 

Board Leadership Structure and Role in Risk Oversight

 

Our Board as a whole is responsible for our risk oversight. Our executive officers address and discuss with our Board our risks and the manner in which we manage or mitigate such risks. While our Board has the ultimate responsibility for our risk oversight, our Board works in conjunction with its committees on certain aspects of its risk oversight responsibilities. In particular, our Audit Committee focuses on financial reporting risks and related controls and procedures; our Compensation Committee evaluates the risks associated with our compensation philosophy and programs and strives to create compensation practices that do not encourage excessive levels of risk taking that would be inconsistent with our strategies and objectives; and our Nomination and Governance Committee oversees risks associated with our Code of Ethical Conduct.

 

We currently separate the positions of President/Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. The Board believes that such structure is in the best interest of the Company at this time, as it allows for a more effective monitoring and objective evaluation of the performance of management.

 

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our executive officers and directors and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered class of our equity securities to file an initial report of ownership on Form 3 and changes in ownership on Form 4 or Form 5 with the SEC. Executive officers, directors and ten percent shareholders are also required by SEC rules to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. Based solely upon our review of Forms 3, 4 and 5 received by us, or written representations from certain reporting persons, we believe that during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, all such filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and ten percent shareholders were fulfilled with the following exceptions:

 

During the fiscal year 2018, Mr. Bentz filed one late Form 4 reporting two transactions. Mr. Ault filed one late Form 4 reporting an issuance by the Company to Ault & Company, Inc., a Delaware corporation, of a warrant to purchase 3,750 shares of common stock at $12.00 per share pursuant to a securities purchase agreement dated October 4, 2017. Mr. Horne filed one late Form 4 reporting the issuance of the Company’s stock options and 50,000 shares of restricted common stock pursuant to an executive employment agreement.

 

Code of Ethics

 

The Board has established a corporate Code of Conduct which qualifies as a “code of ethics” as defined by Item 406 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ Exchange Act ”). The Board has adopted the Code of Ethical Conduct that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller or person performing similar functions (collectively, the “ Financial Managers ”). The Code of Ethical Conduct is designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote honest and ethical conduct and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The full text of our Code of Ethical Conduct is published on our website at www.digipwr.com. We will disclose any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethical Conduct or any waivers, explicit or implicit, from a provision of the Code on our website or in a current report on Form 8-K. Upon request to our CEO, Milton C. Ault, III, we will provide without charge, a copy of our Code of Ethical Conduct.

 

   - 14 -  
 

 

Among other matters, the Code of Conduct is designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote:

 

· honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships;

 

· full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in our SEC reports and other public communications;

 

· compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations;

 

· prompt internal reporting of violations of the Code of Conduct to appropriate persons identified in the code; and

 

· accountability for adherence to the Code of Conduct.

 

Waivers to the Code of Conduct may be granted only by the Board upon recommendation of the Audit Committee. In the event that the Board grants any waivers of the elements listed above to any of our officers, we expect to promptly disclose the waiver as required by law or the private regulatory body.

 

Director Compensation

 

Beginning July 1, 2018, the Company pays each independent director an annual base amount of $35,000 annually, other than Mr. Smith, who will receive a base amount of $45,000 annually due to anticipated additional services to be provided by Mr. Smith as a lead independent director. Additionally, our Board makes recommendations for adjustments to an independent director’s compensation when the level of services provided are significantly above what was anticipated.

 

The table below sets forth, for each non-employee director, the total amount of compensation related to his or her service during the year ended December 31, 2018:

 

    Fees earned or     Stock     Option     All other        
Name   paid in
cash ($)
    awards ($)     awards ($)     compensation ($)     Total ($)  
Robert O. Smith     37,500             117,861  (1)             155,361  
Kristine Ault  (2)     5,000                         5,000  
Jeffrey A. Bentz  (3)     28,264             590,708  (4)             618,972  
Mordechai Rosenberg     27,500             147,010  (5)             174,510  

 

(1) On June 17, 2018, Mr. Smith was granted options to purchase 11,625 shares of Common Stock at $16.00 per share. The options shall vest ratably over forty-eight (48) months beginning with the first month after the effective date.

 

(2) Ms. Ault resigned from the Board on January 24, 2018.

 

(3) Mr. Bentz was appointed as Director on January 24, 2018

 

(4) On January 24, 2018, Mr. Bentz was granted options to purchase 13,750 shares of Common Stock at $46.40 per share and on June 17, 2018, Mr. Bentz was granted options to purchase 5,000 shares of Common Stock at $16.00 per share. The options shall vest ratably over forty-eight (48) months beginning with the first month after the effective date.

 

(5) On June 17, 2018, Mr. Rosenberg was granted options to purchase 14,500 shares of Common Stock at $16.00 per share. The options shall vest ratably over forty-eight (48) months beginning with the first month after the effective date.

 

   - 15 -  
 

 

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

The election of the directors of the Company requires the affirmative vote of a plurality of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or represented by Proxy at the Meeting, which will be the nominees receiving the largest number of votes, which may or may not constitute a majority.

 

The Board unanimously recommends that the stockholders vote “for” each of the director nominees.

 

   - 16 -  
 

 

PROPOSAL NO. 2

 

RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

The Audit Committee has appointed the firm of Marcum LLP, as the independent registered public accounting firm of the Company for the year ending December 31, 2019, subject to ratification of the appointment by the Company’s stockholders. A representative of Marcum LLP, is expected to attend the Meeting to respond to appropriate questions and will have an opportunity to make a statement if he or she so desires.

 

Review of the Company’s Audited Financial Statements for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

The Audit Committee met and held discussions with management and the independent auditors. Management represented to the Audit Committee that the Company’s consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and the Audit Committee reviewed and discussed the consolidated financial statements with management and the independent auditors. The Audit Committee also discussed with the independent auditors the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 114 (Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards, AU 380), as amended.

 

In addition, the Audit Committee discussed with the independent auditors the auditors’ independence from the Company and its management, and the independent auditors provided to the Audit Committee the written disclosures and letter required by the Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1 (Independence Discussions With Audit Committees).

 

The Audit Committee discussed with the Company’s independent auditors the overall scope and plans for their respective audits. The Audit Committee met with the independent auditors, with and without management present, to discuss the results of their examinations and the overall quality of the Company’s internal controls and financial reporting.

 

Based on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee approved the audited financial statements be included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 for filing with the SEC.

 

Fees Paid to Auditors

 

Audit Fees

 

The aggregate fees billed for each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountants Marcum, LLP, with respect to the years ended December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2018, for our audit of annual financial statements and review of financial statements included in our quarterly reports or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years were:

 

2018   $ 610,564  
2017   $ 313,986  

 

Audit-Related Fees

 

We did not incur fees to our independent registered public accounting firm for audit related fees during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

Tax and Other Fees

 

We did not incur fees to our independent registered public accounting firm for tax services during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

   - 17 -  
 

 

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

 

Consistent with SEC policies and guidelines regarding audit independence, the Audit Committee is responsible for the pre-approval of all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our principal accountants on a case-by-case basis. Our Audit Committee has established a policy regarding approval of all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our principal accountants. Our Audit Committee pre-approves these services by category and service. Our Audit Committee has pre-approved all of the services provided by our principal accountants.

 

   - 18 -  
 

 

REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

The Audit Committee of the Board of DPW Holdings, Inc. has furnished the following report on its activities during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. The report is not deemed to be “soliciting material” or “filed” with the SEC or subject to the SEC’s proxy rules or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, and the report shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any prior or subsequent filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that DPW Holdings, Inc. specifically incorporates it by reference into any such filing.

 

The Audit Committee oversees the financial reporting process on behalf of the Board. Management has the primary responsibility for the financial reporting process, principles and internal controls as well as preparation of our financial statements. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, the members of the Audit Committee were Messrs. Smith, Rosenberg and Bentz, each of whom was an independent director as defined by the applicable NYSE American and SEC rules.

 

In fulfilling its responsibilities, the Audit Committee appointed independent auditors Marcum, LLP, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed with the independent auditors the overall scope and specific plans for their audit. The Audit Committee also reviewed and discussed with the independent auditors and with management the Company’s audited financial statements and the adequacy of its internal controls. The Audit Committee met with the independent auditors, without management present, to discuss the results of our independent auditor’s audits, their evaluations of the Company’s internal controls and the overall quality of the Company’s financial reporting.

 

The Audit Committee monitored the independence and performance of the independent auditors. The Audit Committee discussed with the independent auditors the matters required to be discussed by Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“ PCAOB ”) Auditing Standard No. 16—Communications with Audit Committees. The Company’s independent auditors have provided the Audit Committee with the written disclosures and the letter required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent auditors’ communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence, and the Audit Committee has discussed with the independent auditor the independent auditor’s independence. Based upon the review and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the audited financial statements be included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, for filing with the SEC.

 

Mr. Robert O. Smith, Mr. Moti Rosenberg, Mr. Jeffrey Bentz

 

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

The ratification of the appointment of the Company’s independent auditors requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends that the stockholders vote “for” the ratification of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2019.

 

   - 19 -  
 

 

PROPOSAL NO. 3

 

ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION ("SAY-ON-PAY")

 

Reasons for this Proposal

 

We are seeking an advisory vote from our shareholders to approve the compensation paid to our named executive officers, as disclosed in this proxy statement pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the SEC. We provide this vote under the federal securities laws (Section 14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) and in recognition of our stockholders’ vote in 2013 recommending that we hold an advisory vote on executive compensation every three years. After our stockholders voted in 2016, the Board affirmed that recommendation and elected to hold future “say-on-pay” advisory votes every three years, until the next stockholder vote on “say-on-pay” frequency.

 

What does it mean to have a “say-on-pay” advisory vote?

 

You have the opportunity to vote “for” or “against” or to “abstain” from voting on the following non-binding resolution relating to executive compensation:

 

“RESOLVED, that the shareholders approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers as disclosed in the Corporation's proxy statement for the 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the SEC, including the compensation tables and narrative discussion of this proxy statement.”

 

In deciding how to vote on this proposal, you are encouraged to review the compensation tables and narrative discussion in this proxy statement regarding the Company's named executive officers, Messrs. Ault, Horne and Kohn. Our executive compensation program utilizes elements including base salary, management bonus, grants of ordinary shares, and health and other benefits to achieve the following goals:

 

attracting, retaining, motivating, and rewarding highly talented, entrepreneurial, and creative executives;

 

aligning and strengthening the mutuality of interests between our executives and our shareholders; and

 

providing total compensation to executives that is internally equitable, competitive with peer companies, and driven by individual, departmental, and corporate performance.

 

While your vote on this proposal is advisory and will not be binding on the Compensation Committee, the Board or the Company, the Compensation Committee values the opinions of the Company’s shareholders on executive compensation matters and will take the results of this advisory vote into consideration when making future decisions regarding the Company’s executive compensation program.

 

Where can I find more information on executive compensation?

 

We describe our executive compensation in “Information About the Executive Officers,” the compensation tables and the related disclosure contained in this proxy statement.

 

What are some of the performance and compensation highlights for 2018?

 

Performance and compensation highlights for 2018 can be found in “Information About the Executive Officers”, the compensation tables and the related disclosure contained in this proxy statement.

 

Vote Required and Recommendation of the Board

 

The affirmative vote of a majority of the shares voting is required to approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers. This proposal is not binding.

 

The Board recommends that shareholders vote FOR approval, on a non-binding advisory basis, of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers.

 

   - 20 -  
 

 

PROPOSAL NO. 4

 

APPROVAL OF FREQUENCY OF “SAY-ON-PAY” VOTE

 

Background and Reasons for this Proposal

 

As described in Proposal No. 4, we are asking our stockholders to approve an advisory vote on executive compensation, otherwise known as “say-on-pay.” This Proposal No. 4 solicits input from our stockholders on how frequently we should hold such a vote in the future. We are seeking an advisory vote from our shareholders as to whether the shareholder advisory vote on executive compensation should occur every one (1) year, every two (2) years, or every (3) years. Accordingly, you have the opportunity to choose the option of every “one (1) year,” every “two (2) years,” every “three (3) years,” or to “abstain” from voting on the frequency for which the Company should hold a stockholder advisory vote to approve the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers as disclosed pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the SEC, including the compensation tables, narrative discussion and any related material disclosed in this proxy statement.

 

As with “say-on-pay,” we provide this vote pursuant to Section 14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This item is also an advisory vote, which means that it will not bind the Company or our Board. We will disclose how many stockholders voted for each of the three options (annual, biennial, or triennial votes) as well as how many abstained from voting. We last held a vote regarding the frequency of future “say-on-pay” votes in 2013. Since then, consistent with the recommendation of our stockholders, we have held “say-on-pay” advisory votes every three years.

 

In considering the interests of our shareholders and the Company, the Board has determined that the recommended frequency for which the Company should hold a stockholder advisory vote to approve the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers should be every three (3) years. We believe that every three (3) years is the appropriate frequency to hold a Say-on-Pay vote for several reasons. As our compensation programs reward both short-term and long-term performance, shareholder input on executive compensation would be most useful if the effectiveness of our compensation program is evaluated and judged over a multi-year period. Further, a three year interval provides the Board and the Compensation Committee with sufficient time to evaluate the effectiveness of its compensation policies and implement changes in response to its evaluation and the results of the advisory vote. Thus, the Board recommends that stockholders approve a frequency of every three (3) years.

 

As your vote on this proposal is advisory and will not be binding on the Compensation Committee, the Board or the Company, the Board may decide that it is in the best interests of the Company and our stockholders to hold a stockholder advisory vote on executive compensation more or less frequently than the option recommended by our stockholders. However, we value the opinions of our stockholders on executive compensation matters and we will take the results of this advisory vote into consideration when making future decisions regarding the frequency with which the Company holds a stockholder advisory vote on the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers.

 

This non-binding “frequency” vote is required to be submitted to our stockholders at least once every six (6) years. We expect to conduct our next shareholder vote on “say-on-pay” frequency at our 2025 annual meeting of shareholders.

 

Vote and Recommendation of the Board

 

The Board will consider the alternative receiving the greatest number of votes to be the recommendation of the shareholders.

 

The Board recommends that shareholders vote for “EVERY THREE (3) YEARS”   for the advisory vote on whether the shareholder advisory vote on executive compensation should occur every one (1) year, every two (2) years, or every (3) years.

 

   - 21 -  
 

 

PROPOSAL NO. 5

 

AMENDMENT TO THE COMPANY’S CERTIFICATE OF

INCORPORATION TO EFFECT A REVERSE STOCK SPLIT OF COMMON STOCK

 

Our Board has adopted resolutions (1) declaring that submitting an amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split, as described below, was advisable and (2) directing that a proposal to approve the Reverse Stock Split be submitted to the holders of our Common Stock for their approval.

 

The form of the proposed amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split will be substantially as set forth on  Annex A  (subject to any changes required by applicable law).  If approved by our stockholders, the Reverse Stock Split proposal would permit (but not require) our Board to effect a reverse stock split of our Common Stock at any time prior to July 1, 2020 by a ratio of not less than one-for-five and not more than one-for-forty, with the exact ratio to be set at a whole number within this range as determined by our Board in its sole discretion.  We believe that enabling our Board to set the ratio within the stated range will provide us with the flexibility to implement the Reverse Stock Split in a manner designed to maximize the anticipated benefits for our stockholders.  In determining a ratio, if any, following the receipt of stockholder approval, our Board may consider, among other things, factors such as:

 

The continued listing requirements of the NYSE American;

 

the historical trading price and trading volume of our Common Stock;

 

the number of shares of our Common Stock outstanding;

 

the then-prevailing trading price and trading volume of our Common Stock and the anticipated impact of the Reverse Stock Split on the trading market for our Common Stock;

 

the anticipated impact of a particular ratio on our ability to reduce administrative and transactional costs; and

 

prevailing general market and economic conditions.

 

Our Board reserves the right to elect to abandon the Reverse Stock Split, including any or all proposed reverse stock split ratios, if it determines, in its sole discretion, that the Reverse Stock Split is no longer in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.

 

Depending on the ratio for the Reverse Stock Split determined by our Board, no less than four and no more than forty shares of existing Common Stock, as determined by our Board, will be combined into one share of Common Stock.  The amendment to our Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split, if any, will include only the reverse split ratio determined by our Board to be in the best interests of our stockholders and all of the other proposed amendments at different ratios will be abandoned.

 

To avoid the existence of fractional shares of our Common Stock, the Company will pay cash in lieu of fractional shares as described below.

 

Background and Reasons for the Reverse Stock Split; Potential Consequences of the Reverse Stock Split

 

The Board is submitting the Reverse Stock Split to our stockholders for approval with the primary intent of increasing the market price of our Common Stock to enhance our ability to meet the continued listing requirements of the NYSE American and to make our Common Stock more attractive to a broader range of institutional and other investors.   Accordingly, for these and other reasons discussed below, we believe that effecting the Reverse Stock Split is in the Company’s and our stockholders’ best interests.

 

The Common Stock is listed on the NYSE American under the symbol “DPW.” Under the NYSE American’s continued listing standards, if the exchange considers the Common Stock to be a low-priced stock (generally trading below $0.20 per share for an extended period of time), then the Company’s securities are subject to a below compliance notification. Additionally, if at any time the Common Stock trades below an abnormally low level per share, then the Company’s securities will be automatically delisted from the NYSE American. On December 3, 2018, the Company received a letter from the NYSE American, the receipt of which was announced by the Company on December 5, 2018 (the “ First NYSE Letter ”), in which the NYSE American advised the Company that it was concerned about the low trading price of the Company’s shares of Common Stock. Specifically, the First NYSE Letter noted that the average trading price of the Common Stock was $0.23 during the thirty (30) trading days ended on November 30, 2018. Consequently, the NYSE American informed the Company that it deems it appropriate for the Company to effectuate a reverse split of the Common Stock and further advised the Company that it may take further action were the market price of the Common Stock to decline further. In response, the Company determined that effectuating a reverse split was necessary and began to establish a timeline for the proposed reverse split, with certain criteria, such as the ratio of the reverse split, to be resolved as soon as practicable.

 

   - 22 -  
 

 

On January 4, 2019, the Company received a second letter from the NYSE American, the receipt of which was announced by the Company on January 8, 2019 (the “ Second NYSE Letter ”), in which the NYSE American advised the Company that while the Company had not yet effectuated a reverse split, it was aware of the Company’s consideration of such a corporate action. The NYSE American further noted that the Company was not in compliance with the continued listing standards of the NYSE American Company Guide (the “ Company Guide ”). Consequently, the Second NYSE Letter informed the Company that the NYSE American had determined that the Common Stock had been selling for a low price per share for a substantial period of time and, pursuant to the Company Guide, the Company's continued listing is predicated on the Company effecting a reverse stock split of the Common Stock or otherwise demonstrating sustained price improvement within a reasonable period of time, which the NYSE determined to be no later than July 4, 2019. To demonstrate such sustained price improvement, the NYSE American will generally require that: (i) the average closing price of the Common Stock for the thirty (30)-day period ending and including July 4, 2019 be $0.20 per share or greater; and (ii) the closing price of the common stock on July 4, 2019 be $0.20 per share or greater.

 

On February 12, 2019, the Company filed a definitive proxy statement for a Special Meeting to be held on March 14, 2019, the principal purpose of which was to ask its stockholders to approve an amendment to its Certificate of Incorporation to effect the reverse stock split of its Common Stock by a ratio of not less than one-for-four and not more than one-for-twenty at any time prior to March 14, 2020, with the exact ratio to be set at a whole number within this range as determined by our Board in its sole discretion. As such, the proposal was identical to Proposal 5 of this proxy statement, with the exception of the range within which our Board may, assuming this Proposal 5 is approved, determine to fix the ratio of the reverse split.

 

At the Special Meeting held on March 14, 2019, the Company’s stockholders approved a proposal authorizing the Board to effect a reverse stock split by a whole number ratio of not less than one-for-four and not more than one-for-twenty at any time prior to March 14, 2020, with the exact ratio to be set at a whole number within this range as determined by the Board in its sole discretion. The Company reported that 72,253,978 favorable votes were cast, representing nearly 64.0% of the Company’s outstanding shares of capital stock eligible to vote as of the record date.

 

Later on March 14, 2019, the Company announced that the Board approved a one-for-twenty reverse split of the Common Stock effective on March 14, 2019 (the “ March Split ”). Beginning with the opening of trading on March 15, 2019, the Common Stock traded on the NYSE American on a split-adjusted basis.

 

The March Split reduced the number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding from approximately 125,080,765 to approximately 6,254,038. The authorized number of shares of Common Stock remained at 500 million.

 

While the Company believes that the March Split achieved the intended objectives, as the closing market price of the Common Stock (“ CMP ”) on that date was $1.68, substantially above the $1.00 market price that the NYSE American prefers the issuers listed on the NYSE American maintain, and well above the market prices that lead it to issue letters of various kinds to its listed issuers, the Company believes that it is in its own and its stockholders’ best interest to effectuate the Reverse Stock Split due to certain deleterious events that occurred subsequent to March 14, 2019.

 

The first to occur of these events was a precipitous drop in the market price near the end of the trading day of March 15, 2019. As noted above, the CMP on March 14, 2019 was $1.68. While this price level was not fully sustained during the trading day of March 15, 2019, in the last few minutes the price dropped precipitously, with the CMP being $0.71.

 

The second event that caused a significant slide in the market price of the Common Stock was the Company’s press release dated March 29, 2019, which announced the pricing of a public offering. On April 3, 2019, the Company announced that this public offering had closed on April 2, 2019. On March 28, 2019, the CMP was approximately $0.71, only slightly lower than the CMP on March 15, 2019, meaning that the CMP was substantially steady for the two weeks following the March Split. On March 29, 2019, however, the CMP fell to approximately $0.29. This drop in the market price was clearly occasioned by the announcement of the pricing of the public offering and was entirely unrelated to the March Split. As of May 31, 2019, the CMP was approximately $0.15, substantially below the level required by the NYSE American and very significantly below its preferred minimum level of $1.00.

 

As a result principally of the two events described above, the Common Stock has not traded above $1.00 per share and $0.30 per share since March 14, 2019 and April 10, 2019, respectively. Consequently, the Company has requested that its stockholders approved this Proposal 5, which provides for the Reverse Stock Split.

 

If we are unable to regain compliance with NYSE American low-priced continued listing standards in the appropriate time, then the Company’s securities will be subject to delisting. Delisting could have a material adverse effect on our business, liquidity and on the trading of the Common Stock. If the Common Stock were delisted, then it could be quoted on the OTCQB market or on the “pink sheets” maintained by the OTC Markets Group. However, such alternatives are generally considered to be less efficient markets. Further, delisting from the NYSE American could also have other negative effects, including potential loss of confidence by partners, lenders, suppliers and employees and could also trigger various defaults under our lending agreements and other outstanding agreements. Finally, delisting could make it harder for us to raise capital and sell securities.

 

  - 23  
 

 

We also believe that the increased market price of the Common Stock expected as a result of implementing the Reverse Stock Split may improve the marketability and liquidity of the Common Stock and encourage interest and trading in the Common Stock. Because of the trading volatility often associated with low-priced stocks, many brokerage houses and institutional investors have internal policies and practices that either prohibit them from investing in low-priced stocks or tend to discourage individual brokers from recommending low-priced stocks to their customers. Some of those policies and practices may function to make the processing of trades in low-priced stocks economically unattractive to brokers. Moreover, because brokers’ commissions on low-priced stocks generally represent a higher percentage of the stock price than commissions on higher-priced stocks, the current average price per share of the Common Stock can result in individual stockholders paying transaction costs representing a higher percentage of their total share value than would be the case if the share price were substantially higher. Although it should be noted that the liquidity of the Common Stock may be harmed by the Reverse Stock Split given the reduced number of shares that would be outstanding after the Reverse Stock Split, our Board is hopeful that the anticipated higher market price will offset, to some extent, the negative effects on the liquidity and marketability of the Common Stock inherent in some of the policies and practices of institutional investors and brokerage houses described above.

 

Reducing the number of outstanding shares of our Common Stock through the Reverse Stock Split is intended, absent other factors, to increase the per share market price of our Common Stock.  However, other factors, such as our financial results, market conditions and the market perception of our business may adversely affect the market price of our Common Stock.  As a result, there can be no assurance that the Reverse Stock Split, if completed, will result in the intended benefits described above, that the market price of our Common Stock will increase following the Reverse Stock Split or that the market price of our Common Stock will not decrease in the future.  Additionally, we cannot assure you that the market price per share of our Common Stock after a Reverse Stock Split will increase in proportion to the reduction in the number of shares of our Common Stock outstanding before the Reverse Stock Split.  Accordingly, the total market capitalization of our Common Stock after the Reverse Stock Split may be lower than the total market capitalization before the Reverse Stock Split.

 

Procedure for Implementing the Reverse Stock Split

 

The Reverse Stock Split, if approved by our stockholders, would become effective upon the filing (the “ Effective Time ”) of a certificate of amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.  The exact timing of the filing of the certificate of amendment that will effectuate the Reverse Stock Split will be determined by our Board based on its evaluation as to when such action will be the most advantageous to the Company and our stockholders.  In addition, our Board reserves the right, notwithstanding stockholder approval and without further action by the stockholders, to elect not to proceed with the Reverse Stock Split if, at any time prior to filing the amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation, our Board, in its sole discretion, determines that it is no longer in our best interest and the best interests of our stockholders to proceed with the Reverse Stock Split.  If a certificate of amendment effectuating the Reverse Stock Split has not been filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware by the close of business on July 1, 2020, our Board will abandon the Reverse Stock Split.

 

Effect of the Reverse Stock Split on Holders of Outstanding Common Stock

 

Depending on the ratio for the Reverse Stock Split determined by our Board, a minimum of five and a maximum of forty shares of existing Common Stock will be combined into one new share of Common Stock.  The table below shows, as of the Record Date, the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock (excluding treasury shares) that would result from the listed hypothetical reverse stock split ratios (without giving effect to the treatment of fractional shares):

 

Reverse Stock Split Ratio   Approximate Number of Outstanding Shares of Common
Stock Following the Reverse Stock Split
 
1-for-5   7,547,023 
1-for-10   3,773,512 
1-for-15   2,515,674 
1-for-20   1,886,756 
1-for-30   1,257,837 
1-for-40   943,378 

 

The actual number of shares issued after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split, if implemented, will depend on the reverse stock split ratio that is ultimately determined by our Board.

 

The Reverse Stock Split will affect all holders of our Common Stock uniformly and will not affect any stockholder’s percentage ownership interest in the Company, except that as described below in “Fractional Shares,” record holders of Common Stock otherwise entitled to a fractional share as a result of the Reverse Stock Split will receive cash in lieu of fractional shares.  In addition, the Reverse Stock Split will not affect any stockholder’s proportionate voting power (subject to the treatment of fractional shares).

 

  - 24  
 

 

The Reverse Stock Split may result in some stockholders owning “odd lots” of less than 100 shares of Common Stock.  Odd lot shares may be more difficult to sell, and brokerage commissions and other costs of transactions in odd lots are generally somewhat higher than the costs of transactions in “round lots” of even multiples of 100 shares.

 

After the Effective Time, our Common Stock will have new Committee on Uniform Securities Identification Procedures (CUSIP) numbers, which is a number used to identify our equity securities, and stock certificates with the older CUSIP numbers will need to be exchanged for stock certificates with the new CUSIP numbers by following the procedures described below.  After the Reverse Stock Split, we will continue to be subject to the periodic reporting and other requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  Our Common Stock will continue to be listed on the NYSE American under the symbol “DPW.”

 

Beneficial Holders of Common Stock (i.e., stockholders who hold in street name)

 

Upon the implementation of the Reverse Stock Split, we intend to treat shares held by stockholders through a bank, broker, custodian or other nominee in the same manner as registered stockholders whose shares are registered in their names.  Banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees will be instructed to effect the Reverse Stock Split for their beneficial holders holding our Common Stock in street name.  However, these banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees may have different procedures than registered stockholders for processing the Reverse Stock Split.  Stockholders who hold shares of our Common Stock with a bank, broker, custodian or other nominee and who have any questions in this regard are encouraged to contact their banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees.

 

Registered “Book-Entry” Holders of Common Stock (i.e., stockholders whose names are registered on the transfer agent’s books and records but do not hold stock certificates)

 

Certain of our registered holders of Common Stock may hold some or all of their shares electronically in book-entry form with the transfer agent.  These stockholders do not have stock certificates evidencing their ownership of the Common Stock.  They are, however, provided with a statement reflecting the number of shares registered in their accounts.

 

Stockholders who hold shares electronically in book-entry form with the transfer agent will not need to take action (the exchange will be automatic) to receive whole shares of post-Reverse Stock Split Common Stock, subject to adjustment for treatment of fractional shares.

 

Holders of Certificated Shares of Common Stock

 

Stockholders holding shares of our Common Stock in certificated form will be sent a transmittal letter by the Exchange Agent after the Effective Time. The letter of transmittal will contain instructions on how a stockholder should surrender his, her or its certificate(s) representing shares of our Common Stock (the “ Old Certificates ”) to the transfer agent in exchange for certificates representing the appropriate number of whole shares of post-Reverse Stock Split Common Stock (the “ New Certificates ”).

 

No new post-Reverse Stock Split Common Stock will be issued to a stockholder until such stockholder has surrendered all Old Certificates, together with a properly completed and executed letter of transmittal, to the Exchange Agent. No stockholder will be required to pay a transfer or other fee to exchange his, her or its Old Certificates. Stockholders will then receive a Direct Registration Statement representing the number of whole shares of Common Stock that they are entitled as a result of the Reverse Stock Split, subject to the treatment of fractional shares described below. Until surrendered, we will deem outstanding Old Certificates held by stockholders to be cancelled and only to represent the number of whole shares of post-Reverse Stock Split Common Stock to which these stockholders are entitled, subject to the treatment of fractional shares. Any Old Certificates submitted for exchange, whether because of a sale, transfer or other disposition of stock, will automatically be exchanged for post-Reverse Stock Split Common Stock. If an Old Certificate has a restrictive legend on the back of the Old Certificate(s), a New Certificate will be issued with the same restrictive legends that are on the back of the Old Certificate(s).

 

STOCKHOLDERS SHOULD NOT DESTROY ANY STOCK CERTIFICATE(S) AND SHOULD NOT SUBMIT ANY STOCK CERTIFICATE(S) UNTIL REQUESTED TO DO SO.

 

Fractional Shares

 

Prevailing market prices

We will not issue fractional shares in connection with the Reverse Stock Split. Stockholders who would otherwise hold fractional shares because the number of shares of Common Stock they hold before the Reverse Stock Split is not evenly divisible by the split ratio ultimately determined by the Board will be entitled to receive a cash payment (without interest and subject to applicable withholding taxes) from our Exchange Agent in lieu of such fractional shares. The cash payment is subject to applicable U.S. federal and state income tax and state abandoned property laws. Stockholders will not be entitled to receive interest for the period of time between the Effective Time and the date payment is received.

 

  - 25  
 

 

We currently anticipate that, in lieu of issuing fractional shares, the aggregate of all fractional shares otherwise issuable to the holders of record of Common Stock shall be issued to the Exchange Agent for the Common Stock, as agent, for the accounts of all holders of record of Common Stock otherwise entitled to have a fraction of a share issued to them. The sale of all fractional interests will be effected by the Exchange Agent as soon as practicable after the Effective Time on the basis of prevailing market prices of the Common Stock at the time of sale. After such sale and upon the surrender of the stockholders’ stock certificates, if any, the Exchange Agent will pay to such holders of record their pro rata share of the net proceeds (after customary brokerage commissions and other expenses) derived from the sale of the fractional interests.

 

After the Reverse Stock Split, a stockholder will have no further interest in the Company with respect to its fractional share interest, and persons otherwise entitled to a fractional share will not have any voting, dividend or other rights with respect thereto except the right to receive a cash payment as described above. 

 

Effect of the Reverse Stock Split on Employee Plans, Options, Restricted Stock Awards, Warrants and Convertible or Exchangeable Securities

 

Based upon the reverse stock split ratio determined by the board of directors, proportionate adjustments are generally required to be made to the per share exercise price and the number of shares issuable upon the exercise or conversion of all outstanding options, warrants, convertible or exchangeable securities entitling the holders to purchase, exchange for, or convert into, shares of Common Stock.  This would result in approximately the same aggregate price being required to be paid under such options, warrants, convertible or exchangeable securities upon exercise, and approximately the same value of shares of Common Stock being delivered upon such exercise, exchange or conversion, immediately following the Reverse Stock Split as was the case immediately preceding the Reverse Stock Split.  The number of shares deliverable upon settlement or vesting of restricted stock awards will be similarly adjusted, subject to our treatment of fractional shares.  The number of shares reserved for issuance pursuant to these securities will be proportionately based upon the reverse stock split ratio determined by the Board, subject to our treatment of fractional shares.

 

Accounting Matters

 

The proposed amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation will not affect the par value of our Common Stock per share, which will remain $0.001.  As a result, as of the Effective Time, the stated capital attributable to Common Stock and the additional paid-in capital account on our balance sheet will not change due to the Reverse Stock Split.  Reported per share net income or loss will be higher because there will be fewer shares of Common Stock outstanding.

 

Certain Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Reverse Stock Split

 

The following summary describes certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reverse Stock Split to holders of our Common Stock.

 

Unless otherwise specifically indicated herein, this summary addresses the tax consequences only to a beneficial owner of our Common Stock that is a citizen or individual resident of the United States, a corporation organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia or otherwise subject to U.S. federal income taxation on a net income basis in respect of our Common Stock (a “ U.S. holder ”).  A trust may also be a U.S. holder if (1) a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over administration of such trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (2) it has a valid election in place to be treated as a U.S. person.  An estate whose income is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source may also be a U.S. holder.  This summary does not address all of the tax consequences that may be relevant to any particular investor, including tax considerations that arise from rules of general application to all taxpayers or to certain classes of taxpayers or that are generally assumed to be known by investors.  This summary also does not address the tax consequences to (i) persons that may be subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax law, such as banks, insurance companies, thrift institutions, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, tax-exempt organizations, U.S.  expatriates, persons subject to the alternative minimum tax, traders in securities that elect to mark to market and dealers in securities or currencies, (ii) persons that hold our Common Stock as part of a position in a “straddle” or as part of a “hedging,” “conversion” or other integrated investment transaction for federal income tax purposes, or (iii) persons that do not hold our Common Stock as “capital assets” (generally, property held for investment).

 

If a partnership (or other entity classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) is the beneficial owner of our Common Stock, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership.  Partnerships that hold our Common Stock, and partners in such partnerships, should consult their own tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reverse Stock Split.

 

This summary is based on the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, U.S. Treasury regulations, administrative rulings and judicial authority, all as in effect as of the date of this proxy statement.  Subsequent developments in U.S. federal income tax law, including changes in law or differing interpretations, which may be applied retroactively, could have a material effect on the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reverse Stock Split.

 

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PLEASE CONSULT YOUR OWN TAX ADVISOR REGARDING THE U.S. FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, AND FOREIGN INCOME AND OTHER TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE REVERSE STOCK SPLIT IN YOUR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE AND THE LAWS OF ANY OTHER TAXING JURISDICTION.

 

U.S. Holders

 

The Reverse Stock Split should be treated as a recapitalization for U.S. federal income tax purposes.  Therefore, a stockholder generally will not recognize gain or loss on the reverse stock split, except to the extent of cash, if any, received in lieu of a fractional share interest in the post-reverse stock split shares. The aggregate tax basis of the post-split shares received will be equal to the aggregate tax basis of the pre-split shares exchanged therefore (excluding any portion of the holder’s basis allocated to fractional shares), and the holding period of the post-split shares received will include the holding period of the pre-split shares exchanged. A holder of the pre-split shares who receives cash will generally recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the portion of the tax basis of the pre-split shares allocated to the fractional share interest and the cash received. Such gain or loss will be a capital gain or loss and will be short term if the pre-split shares were held for one year or less and long term if held more than one year. No gain or loss will be recognized by us as a result of the reverse stock split.

 

No Appraisal Rights

 

Under Delaware law and our charter documents, holders of our Common Stock will not be entitled to dissenter’s rights or appraisal rights with respect to the Reverse Stock Split.

 

Vote Required to Approve the   Amendment and Recommendation

 

Under Delaware law and our charter documents, the affirmative vote of holders of a majority of the shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date is required to approve the Reverse Stock Split.

 

Our board of directors recommends that stockholders vote “FOR” the amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation to authorize the Reverse Stock Split.

 

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PROPOSAL NO. 6

 

APPROVAL OF THE EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND

GENERAL COUNSEL’S EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT DATED APRIL 12, 2019

 

Description of the Employment Agreement

 

On April 12, 2019, the Company entered into a four-year employment agreement with Henry Nisser to serve as General Counsel and Executive Vice President of the Company and its subsidiaries, as subsequently amended (the “ Nisser Employment Agreement ”). For his services, Mr. Nisser will be paid a salary of $200,000 per annum subject to such further upward adjustments as shall be determined annually by the Board (the “ Base Salary ”).

 

Upon signing of the Nisser Employment Agreement, Mr. Nisser became entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $50,000, with $25,000 being payable upon May 1, 2019 (the “ Effective Date ”) and $25,000 being payable no later than September 1, 2019. In addition, Mr. Nisser is eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Compensation Committee, which bonus shall not exceed 300% of the Base Salary.

 

Further, Mr. Nisser is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (A) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 250,000 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest fifty percent upon the effective date of the Nisser Employment Agreement, with the remainder vesting ratably over 48 months beginning on June 1, 2019, and (B) an option to purchase 750,000 shares of common stock at a per share exercise price equal to the closing market price on the effective date, or $0.22 per share, which option has a term of seven (7) years.

 

Upon termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Nisser shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

 

Further, unless Mr. Nisser’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Nisser’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Nisser a “ Separation Payment ” as follows: (A) an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service and (B) commencing on the date that shall be one (1) year from the Effective Date should Mr. Nisser provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement within 30 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) an amount equal to the lesser of what the Executive would have received if the Employment Period ended after (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the four-year term or the then applicable Renewal Term (as defined in the Nisser Employment Agreement), as the case may be, or (2) the 18-month period commencing on the date Mr. Nisser is terminated (in either case, the “ Separation Period ”) payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Nisser would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months. Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Nisser will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment.

 

Why the Company Needs Stockholder Approval

 

Rule 711 of the NYSE American requires stockholder approval with respect to the establishment of (or material amendment to) a stock option or purchase plan or other equity compensation arrangement pursuant to which options or stock may be acquired by officers, directors, employees, or consultants.

 

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Effect of Proposal on Current Stockholders

 

If this Proposal No. 6 is adopted, based on the issuance of shares pursuant to the Nisser Employment Agreement (and provided the Company has sufficient authorized shares of Common Stock), a maximum of 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent 2.6% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our stockholders, and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued pursuant to the Nisser Employment Agreement could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline.

 

Further Information.

 

The terms of the Nisser Employment Agreement are complex and only briefly summarized above. For further information, please refer to the descriptions contained in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 16, 2019, and the transaction documents filed as exhibits to such report. The discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference to such filed transaction documents.

 

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

Approval of the Nisser Employment Agreement requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of (i) the grant of 250,000 shares of Common Stock, which shares shall vest fifty percent on the effective date of the Nisser Employment Agreement, with the remainder vesting ratably over 48 months beginning on June 1, 2019, and (ii) the grant of an option to purchase 750,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $0.22, which option will vest ratably over 48 months, and the underlying shares of Common Stock issuable thereunder, pursuant to the terms of the Nisser Employment Agreement (defined herein) dated April 12, 2019, in order to comply with Rule 711 of the NYSE American.

 

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PROPOSAL NO. 7

 

APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT OF 2018 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Overview

 

On May 13, 2019, the Board unanimously approved, subject to stockholder approval, an amendment (the “ Stock Plan Amendment ”) to the DPW Holdings, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “ 2018 Plan ”). If adopted by our stockholders, the Stock Plan Amendment would, among other things:

 

· Increase the number of shares of our common stock that may be issued pursuant to stock-based awards made under the 2018 Plan by 6,500,000 shares to a total of 7,000,000 shares; and

 

· Enable the 2018 Plan to continue to satisfy the requirements set forth in Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“ Section 162(m) ”), and the related regulations with respect to “qualified performance-based compensation.”

 

​The 2018 Plan was most recently approved by our stockholders on December 28, 2018. We strongly believe that the approval of the Stock Plan Amendment is essential to our continued success. We believe that equity is an important and significant component of our employees’ compensation. The Board further believes that equity incentives motivate high levels of performance, align the interests of our employees and stockholders by giving directors, employees and consultants the perspective of an owner with an equity stake in the Company, and provide an effective means of recognizing their contributions to the success of the Company. The Board and management believe that the ability to grant equity incentives will be important to the future success of the Company and is in the best interests of the Company's stockholders.

 

Summary of the 2018 Plan

 

The 2018 Plan includes a variety of forms of awards, including stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units and dividend equivalents to allow the Company to adapt its incentive program to meet the needs of the Company in the changing business environment in which the Company operates. As of the Record Date, we had 500,000 shares remaining available for future awards under the 2018 Plan, of which 500,000 shares remained available for future grants of full value awards.

 

We are requesting an additional 6,500,000 shares pursuant to the Stock Plan Amendment, which will permit the Company to grant awards under the 2018 Plan beyond the date when the currently authorized shares have been exhausted. The share pool and all share limits under the 2018 Plan have been adjusted, in accordance with the terms of the 2018 Plan, to reflect the one-for-twenty reverse stock split effected by the Company on March 14, 2019.

 

One of the requirements of “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) is that the material terms of performance-based awards be approved by stockholders. The material terms include: (i) the employees eligible to receive compensation, (ii) a description of the business criteria upon which a performance goal may be based, and (iii) the maximum amount of compensation that can be paid to an employee under awards intended to satisfy the performance-based compensation exception under Section 162(m). Stockholder approval of the 2018 Plan is intended to constitute approval of each of these aspects of the 2018 Plan for purposes of the approval requirements of Section 162(m). However, nothing in this proposal precludes the Company or the Compensation Committee, which administers the 2018 Plan, from granting awards that do not qualify for tax deductibility under Section 162(m), nor is there any guarantee that awards intended to qualify for tax deductibility under Section 162(m) will ultimately be viewed as so qualifying by the Internal Revenue Service. If stockholders fail to reapprove the material terms of performance-based awards under the 2018 Plan, we may continue to pay performance-based compensation thereunder in the future, even though any such compensation paid may not meet the conditions for tax deductibility under Section 162(m).

  

The potential dilution resulting from issuing all of the proposed 6,500,000 shares under the 2018 Plan, assuming the Stock Plan Amendment is approved by the stockholders, would be 14.7% on a fully diluted basis.

 

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Assuming stockholders approve the Stock Plan Amendment, the DPW Holdings, Inc., 2018 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated as of May 13, 2019 (the “ Amended and Restated 2018 Plan ”), will be effective as the date of the Meeting.

 

We are seeking stockholder approval of the Stock Plan Amendment in order to satisfy certain legal requirements, including making awards under it eligible for beneficial tax treatment. In addition, the Board regards stockholder approval of the Stock Plan Amendment as desirable and consistent with good corporate governance practices.

 

Summary of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan

 

The following is a description of the principal terms of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. A copy of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, is attached as Appendix B to this Proxy Statement. The following is a summary of the material terms of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, attached as Appendix B to this Proxy Statement.

 

General. The Amended and Restated 2018 Plan would authorize the grant to eligible individuals of (1) stock options (incentive and nonstatutory), (2) restricted stock, (3) stock appreciation rights, or SARs, (4) restricted stock units, and (5) other stock-based compensation.

 

Stock Subject to the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. The maximum number of shares of our Common Stock that may be issued under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan is 7,000,000 shares, which amount will be increased to the extent that compensated granted under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan are forfeited, expire or are settled for cash (except as otherwise provided in the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan).

 

Substitute awards (awards made or shares issued by the Company in assumption of, or in substitution or exchange for, awards previously granted, or the right or obligation to make future awards, in each case by a company acquired by the Company or any Company subsidiary or with which the Company or any subsidiary combines) will not reduce the shares authorized for grant under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, nor will shares subject to a substitute award be added to the shares available for issuance or transfer under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan.

 

No Liberal Share Recycling. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, any and all stock that is (i) withheld or tendered in payment of an option exercise price; (ii) withheld by the Company or tendered by the grantee to satisfy any tax withholding obligation with respect to any award; (iii) covered by a SAR that it is settled in stock, without regard to the number of shares of stock that are actually issued to the grantee upon exercise; or (vi) reacquired by the Company on the open market or otherwise using cash proceeds from the exercise of options, shall not be added to the maximum number of shares of stock that may be issued under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan.

 

Eligibility. Employees of, and consultants to, our Company or its affiliates and members of our Board are eligible to receive equity awards under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. Only our employees, and employees of our parent and subsidiary corporations, if any, are eligible to receive Incentive Stock Options. Employees, directors (including non-employee directors) and consultants of or for our Company and its affiliates are eligible to receive Nonstatutory Stock Options, Restricted Stock, Purchase Rights and any other form of award the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan authorizes.

 

Purpose. The purpose of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan is to promote the interests of the Company and its stockholders by providing executive officers, employees, non-employee directors, and key advisors of the Company and its defined subsidiaries with appropriate incentives and rewards to encourage them to enter into and remain in their positions with the Company and to acquire a proprietary interest in the long-term success of the Company, as well as to reward the performance of these individuals in fulfilling their personal responsibilities for long-range and annual achievements.

 

Administration. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, the Compensation Committee administers the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. The Compensation Committee is composed solely of “non-employee directors” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, “outside directors” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, and “independent directors” within the meaning of NYSE American listing standards. The Compensation Committee has the power, in its discretion, to grant awards under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, to select the individuals to whom awards are granted, to determine the terms of the grants, to interpret the provisions of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan and to otherwise administer the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. Except as prohibited by applicable law or any rule promulgated by a national securities exchange to which the Company may in the future be subject, the Compensation Committee may delegate all or any of its responsibilities and powers under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan to one or more of its members, including, without limitation, the power to designate participants and determine the amount, timing and term of awards under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. In no event, however, shall the Compensation Committee have the power to accelerate the payment or vesting of any award, other than in the event of death, disability, retirement or a change of control of the Company.

 

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The Amended and Restated 2018 Plan provides that members of the Compensation Committee shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company from any loss or expense resulting from claims and litigation arising from actions related to the 2018 Plan.

 

Term. If the Stock Plan Amendment is approved, the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan will be effective July 2, 2019, and awards may be granted through July 1, 2029. No awards may be granted under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan subsequent to that date. The Board may suspend or terminate the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan without stockholder approval or ratification at any time or from time to time.

 

Amendments. Subject to the terms of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, the Compensation Committee as administrator has the sole discretion to interpret the provisions of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan and outstanding awards. Our Board generally may amend or terminate the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan at any time and for any reason, except that no amendment, suspension, or termination may impair the rights of any participant without his or her consent, and except that approval of our stockholders is required for any amendment which:

 

· Increases the number of shares of Common Stock subject to the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan;
· Decreases the price at which grants may be granted;
· Reprices existing options;
· Materially increases the benefits to participants; or
· Changes the class of persons eligible to receive grants under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan.

 

Repricing Prohibition. Other than in connection with certain corporate events, the Compensation Committee shall not, without the approval of the Company’s stockholders, (a) lower the option price per share of an option or SAR after it is granted, (b) cancel an Option or SAR when the exercise price per share exceeds the fair market value of one share in exchange for cash or another award (other than in connection with a change of control), or (c) take any other action with respect to an Option or SAR that would be treated as a repricing under the rules and regulations of the principal U.S. national securities exchange on which the Company’s shares are then listed.

 

Minimum Vesting Requirement. Grantees of full-value awards (i.e., awards other than options and SARs), will be required to continue to provide services to the Company or an affiliated company) for not less than one-year following the date of grant in order for any such full-value Awards to fully or partially vest (other than in case of death, disability or a Change of Control). Notwithstanding the foregoing, up to five percent (5%) of the available shares of stock authorized for issuance under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan may provide for vesting of full-value awards, partially or in full, in less than one-year.

 

Adjustments upon Changes in Capitalization. In the event of any merger, reorganization, consolidation, recapitalization, dividend or distribution (whether in cash, shares or other property, other than a regular cash dividend), stock split, reverse stock split, spin-off or similar transaction or other change in our corporate structure affecting our Common Stock or the value thereof, appropriate adjustments to the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan and awards will be made as the Board determines to be equitable or appropriate, including adjustments in the number and class of shares of stock available for issuance under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, the number, class and exercise or grant price of shares subject to awards outstanding under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, and the limits on the number of awards that any person may receive.

 

Change of Control. Agreements evidencing awards under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan may provide that upon a Change of Control (as defined in the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan), unless otherwise provided in the agreement evidencing an award), outstanding Awards may be cancelled and terminated without payment if the consideration payable with respect to one share of Stock in connection with the Change of Control is less than the exercise price or grant price applicable to such Award, as applicable.

 

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Notwithstanding any other provisions of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan to the contrary, the vesting, payment, purchase or distribution of an Award may not be accelerated by reason of a Change of Control for any participant unless the Grantee’s employment is involuntarily terminated as a result of the Change of Control as provided in the Award agreement or in any other written agreement, including an employment agreement, between us and the participant. If the Change of Control results in the involuntary termination of participant’s employment, outstanding awards will immediately vest, become fully exercisable and may thereafter be exercised.

 

Generally, under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, a Change of Control occurs upon (i) the consummation of a reorganization, merger or consolidation of our Company with or into another entity, pursuant to which our stockholders immediately prior to the transaction do not own more than 50% of the total combined voting power after the transaction, (ii) the consummation of the sale, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets, (iii) certain changes in the majority of our Board from those in office on the effective date of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, (iv) the acquisition of more than 50% of the total combined voting power in our outstanding securities by any person, or (v) the Company is dissolved or liquidated.

 

Types of Awards

 

Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options and Nonstatutory Stock Options are granted pursuant to award agreements adopted by our Compensation Committee. Our Compensation Committee determines the exercise price for a stock option, within the terms and conditions of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan; provided, that the exercise price of an Incentive Stock Option cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our Common Stock on the date of grant. Options granted under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan vest at the rate specified by our Compensation Committee.

 

The Compensation Committee determines the term of stock options granted under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, up to a maximum of 10 years, except in the case of certain Incentive Stock Options, as described below. The Compensation Committee will also determine the length of period during which an optionee may exercise their options if an optionee’s relationship with us, or any of our affiliates, ceases for any reason; for Incentive Stock Options, this period is limited by applicable law. The Compensation Committee may extend the exercise period in the event that exercise of the option following termination of service is prohibited by applicable securities laws. In no event, however, may an option be exercised beyond the expiration of its term unless the term is extended in accordance with applicable law.

 

Acceptable consideration for the purchase of Common Stock issued upon the exercise of a stock option will be determined by the Compensation Committee and may include (a) cash or its equivalent, (b) delivering a properly executed notice of exercise of the option to us and a broker, with irrevocable instructions to the broker promptly to deliver to us the amount necessary to pay the exercise price of the option, (c) any other form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the Compensation Committee or (d) any combination of (a), (b) or (c).

 

Unless the Compensation Committee provides otherwise, options are generally transferable in accordance with applicable law, provided that any transferee of such options agrees to become bound by the terms of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. An optionee may also designate a beneficiary who may exercise the option following the optionee’s death.

 

Incentive or Nonstatutory Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to our employees, and the employees of our parent or subsidiary corporations, if any. The Compensation Committee may grant awards of Incentive or Nonstatutory Stock Options that are fully vested on the date made, to any of our employees, directors or consultants. Option Awards are granted pursuant to award agreements adopted by our Compensation Committee. To the extent required by applicable law, the aggregate fair market value, determined at the time of grant, of shares of our Common Stock with respect to Incentive Stock Options that are exercisable for the first time by an optionee during any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. To the extent required by applicable law, no Incentive Stock Option may be granted to any person who, at the time of the grant, owns or is deemed to own stock possessing more than 10% of our total combined voting power or that of any of our affiliates unless (a) the option exercise price is at least 110% of the fair market value of the stock subject to the option on the date of grant and (b) the term of the incentive stock option does not exceed five years from the date of grant.

 

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Stock Appreciation Rights . An SAR is the right to receive stock, cash, or other property equal in value to the difference between the grant price of the SAR and the market price of the Company’s Common Stock on the exercise date. SARs may be granted independently or in tandem with an Option at the time of grant of the related Option. An SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be exercisable only to the extent the underlying Option is exercisable. An SAR confers on the grantee a right to receive an amount with respect to each share of Common Stock subject thereto, upon exercise thereof, equal to the excess of (A) the fair market value of one share of Common Stock on the date of exercise over (B) the grant price of the SAR (which in the case of an SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be equal to the exercise price of the underlying Option, and which in the case of any other SAR shall be such price as the Compensation Committee may determine but in no event shall be less than the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date of grant of such SAR).

 

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units . Restricted Stock is Common Stock that the Company grants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting criteria. A Restricted Stock Unit is a right to receive stock or cash equal to the value of a share of stock at the end of a specified period that the Company grants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting criteria. The grant of these awards under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan are subject to such terms, conditions and restrictions as the Compensation Committee determines consistent with the terms of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan.

 

At the time of grant, the Compensation Committee may place restrictions on Restricted Stock and restricted stock units that shall lapse, in whole or in part, only upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year, and if the award is granted to a 162(m) Officer, the grant of the award and the establishment of the Performance Goals shall be made during the period required under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Except to the extent restricted under the award agreement relating to the Restricted Stock, a grantee granted Restricted Stock shall have all of the rights of a stockholder including the right to vote Restricted Stock and the right to receive dividends.

 

Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement, upon the vesting of a Restricted Stock Unit, there shall be delivered to the grantee, within 30 days of the date on which such award (or any portion thereof) vests, the number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of restricted stock units becoming so vested.

  

Other Stock-Based Awards. The Amended and Restated 2018 Plan also allows the Compensation Committee to grant “Other Stock-Based Awards,” which means a right or other interest that may be denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, or related to, Common Stock. Subject to the limitations contained in the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, this includes, without limitation, (i) unrestricted stock awarded as a bonus or upon the attainment of Performance Goals or otherwise as permitted under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan and (ii) a right to acquire stock from the Company containing terms and conditions prescribed by the Compensation Committee. At the time of the grant of Other Stock-Based Awards, the Compensation Committee may place restrictions on the payout or vesting of Other Stock-Based Awards that shall lapse, in whole or in part, only upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year, and if the award is granted to a 162(m) Officer, the grant of the Award and the establishment of the Performance Goals shall be made during the period required under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Other Stock-Based Awards may not be granted with the right to receive dividend equivalent payments.

 

Performance Awards . Performance awards provide participants with the opportunity to receive shares of our Common Stock, cash or other property based on performance and other vesting conditions. Performance awards may be granted from time to time as determined at the discretion of the Board, or the Compensation Committee (as applicable). Subject to the share limit and maximum dollar value set forth above under “ Limits per Participant ,” the Board, or the Compensation Committee (as applicable), has the discretion to determine (i) the number of shares of Common Stock under, or the dollar value of, a performance award and (ii) the conditions that must be satisfied for grant or for vesting, which typically will be based principally or solely on achievement of performance goals.

 

Performance Criteria . With respect to awards intended to qualify as performance-based compensation under Code Section 162(m), a committee of “outside directors” (as defined in Code Section 162(m)) with authority delegated by our Board will determine the terms and conditions of such awards, including the performance criteria. The performance goals for restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance awards or other share-based awards shall be based on the attainment of specified levels of one or any combination of the following:

 

· the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified percentage increase in, revenues, earnings, income before taxes and extraordinary items, net income, operating income, earnings before or after deduction for all or any portion of income tax, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization or a combination of any or all of the foregoing;

 

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· the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax profits including, without limitation, that attributable to continuing and/or other operations;
· the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, operational cash flow;
· the achievement of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in, all or a portion of, the Company’s bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations of the Company, which may be calculated net of such cash balances and/or other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Compensation Committee;
· earnings per share or the attainment of a specified percentage increase in earnings per share or earnings per share from continuing operations;
· the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in return on capital employed or return on invested capital;
· the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax return on stockholders’ equity;
· the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, economic value added targets based on a cash flow return on investment formula;
· the attainment of certain target levels in, or specified increases in, the fair market value of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock;
· the growth in the value of an investment in the Company’s Common Stock;
· the attainment of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level in or increase in, all or a portion of controllable expenses or costs or other expenses or costs;
· gross or net sales, revenue and growth of sales revenue (either before or after cost of goods, selling and general administrative expenses, research and development expenses and any other expenses or interest);
· total stockholder return;
· return on assets or net assets;
· return on sales;
· operating profit or net operating profit;
· operating margin;
· gross or net profit margin;
· cost reductions or savings;
· productivity;
· operating efficiency;
· working capital;
· market share;
· customer satisfaction; and
· to the extent that an Award is not intended to comply with Section 162(m) of the Code, other measures of performance selected by the Board.

 

The performance goals may be based solely by reference to our performance or the performance of one or more of our subsidiaries, parents, divisions, business segments or business units, or based upon the relative performance of other companies or upon comparisons of any of the indicators of performance relative to other companies. The authorized committee of outside directors may also exclude under the terms of the performance awards, the impact of an event or occurrence that the committee determines should appropriately be excluded, including (i) restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items, and other unusual or non-recurring charges, or (ii) changes in generally accepted accounting principles or practices.

 

In connection with the approval of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, the stockholders also are being asked to approve the above criteria for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code.

 

New Plan Benefits under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan

 

Because future awards under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan will be granted in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, the type, number, recipients, and other terms of such awards cannot be determined at this time.

 

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U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

 

The following is a brief description of the material United States federal income tax consequences associated with awards under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. It is based on existing United States laws and regulations, and there can be no assurance that those laws and regulations will not change in the future. Tax consequences in other countries may vary. This information is not intended as tax advice to anyone, including participants in the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan.

 

Stock Options . Neither incentive stock option grants nor non-qualified stock option grants cause any tax consequences to the participant or the Company at the time of grant. Upon the exercise of a non-qualified stock option, the excess of the market value of the shares acquired over their exercise price is ordinary income to the participant and is deductible by the Company. The participant’s tax basis for the shares is the market value thereof at the time of exercise. Any gain or loss realized upon a subsequent disposition of the stock will generally constitute capital gain, in connection with which the Company will not be entitled to a tax deduction.

 

Upon the exercise of an incentive stock option, the participant will not realize taxable income, but the excess of the fair market value of the stock over the exercise price may give rise to alternative minimum tax. When the stock acquired upon exercise of an incentive stock option is subsequently sold, the participant will recognize income equal to the difference between the sales price and the exercise price of the option. If the sale occurs after the expiration of two years from the grant date and one year from the exercise date, the income will constitute long-term capital gain. If the sale occurs prior to that time, the participant will recognize ordinary income to the extent of the lesser of the gain realized upon the sale or the difference between the fair market value of the acquired stock at the time of exercise and the exercise price; any additional gain will constitute capital gain. The Company will be entitled to a deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant, but no deduction in connection with any capital gain recognized by the participant. If the participant exercises an incentive stock option more than three months after his or her termination of employment due to retirement or other separation other than death or disability, or more than twelve months after his or her termination of employment due to death or permanent disability, he or she is deemed to have exercised a non-qualified stock option.

 

Stock Appreciation Rights . A participant granted a stock appreciation right under the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time the award is granted. When the participant exercises the stock appreciation right, the amount of cash and the fair market value of any shares of stock or other consideration received will be ordinary income to the participant and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time. Compensation realized by the participant on the exercise of the stock appreciation right should qualify as performance-based compensation under the Code and thus not be subject to the $1,000,000 deductibility limit of Code Section 162(m).

 

Restricted Stock . Restricted stock is not taxable to a participant at the time of grant, but instead is included in ordinary income (at its then fair market value) when the restrictions lapse. A participant may elect, however, to recognize income at the time of grant, in which case the fair market value of the restricted shares at the time of grant is included in ordinary income and there is no further income recognition when the restrictions lapse. If a participant makes such an election and thereafter forfeits the restricted shares, he or she will be entitled to no tax deduction, capital loss or other tax benefit. The Company is entitled to a tax deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

 

A participant’s tax basis for restricted shares will be equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by the participant. The participant will recognize capital gain (or loss) on a sale of the restricted stock if the sale price exceeds (or is lower than) such basis. The holding period for restricted shares for purposes of characterizing gain or loss on the sale of any shares as long- or short-term commences at the time the participant recognizes ordinary income pursuant to an award. The Company is not entitled to a tax deduction corresponding to any capital gain or loss of the participant.

 

Restricted Stock Units . A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a restricted stock unit award is granted. Upon receipt of shares of stock (or the equivalent value in cash or any combination of cash and the Company Common Stock) in settlement of a restricted stock unit award, a participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock and cash received as of that date (less any amount he or she paid for the stock and cash), and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

 

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Performance Awards . A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a performance award is granted (for example, when the performance goals are established). Upon receipt of stock or cash (or a combination thereof) in settlement of a performance award, the participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock and cash received, and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

 

Code Section 409A . If an award is subject to Code Section 409A (which relates to nonqualified deferred compensation plans), and if the requirements of Section 409A are not met, the taxable events as described above could apply earlier than described, and could result in the imposition of additional taxes and penalties. All awards that comply with the terms of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan, however, are intended to be exempt from the application of Code Section 409A or meet the requirements of Section 409A in order to avoid such early taxation and penalties.

 

Tax Withholding . The Company has the right to deduct or withhold, or require a participant to remit to the Company, an amount sufficient to satisfy federal, state and local taxes (including employment taxes) required by law to be withheld with respect to any exercise, lapse of restriction or other taxable event arising as a result of the Amended and Restated 2018 Plan. The Compensation Committee may, at the time the award is granted or thereafter, require or permit that any such withholding requirement be satisfied, in whole or in part, by delivery of, or withholding from the award, shares having a fair market value on the date of withholding equal to the amount required to be withheld for tax purposes.

 

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

Approval of the Stock Plan Amendment requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of the Company's Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of the Stock Plan Amendment.

 

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INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

 

Executive Officers

The executive officers are elected by our Board and hold office until their successors are elected and duly qualified. There are no family relationships between any of our directors or executive officers. The current executive officers of the Company are as follows:

 

Name   Age   Offices Held
Milton C. Ault, III   49   Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
William B. Horne   50   Chief Financial Officer and Director
Amos Kohn   59   President and Director
Henry Nisser   50   Executive Vice President and General Counsel

 

Biographical information about Mr. Ault is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

 

Biographical information about Mr. Horne is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

 

Biographical information about Mr. Kohn is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

 

Henry Nisser

From October 31, 2011 through April 26, 2019, Mr. Nisser was an associate and subsequently a partner with Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP (“SRF”), a law firm based in New York City. While with SRF, his practice was concentrated in national and international corporate law, with a particular focus on U.S. securities compliance, public as well as private M&A, equity and debt financings and corporate governance. Mr. Nisser drafted and negotiated a variety of agreements related to reorganizations, share and asset purchases, indentures, public and private offerings, tender offers and going private transactions. Mr. Nisser also represented clients’ special committees established to evaluate M&A transactions and advised such committees’ members with respect to their fiduciary duties. Mr. Nisser is fluent in French and Swedish as well as conversant in Italian. Mr. Nisser received his B.A. from Connecticut College in 1992, where he majored in International Relations and Economics. He received his LLB from the University of Buckingham School of Law in 1999.

 

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

The following Summary Compensation Table sets forth all compensation earned in all capacities during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, by our Chief Executive Officer (the “ Named Executive Officer ”). Because we are a Smaller Reporting Company, we only have to report information of our Chief Executive Officer as no other officer met the definition of Named Executive Officer within the meaning of the SEC rules.

  

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
               
Name and principal position Year Salary ($) Bonus ($) Stock Awards
($)  (1)

Option

Awards ($)  (I)

All Other

Compensation ($)

Total ($)
               
Milton C. Ault, III 2018 0 0 630,000 253,465 400,000 1,283,465
Chief Executive Officer  (3) 2017 0 0 0 461,250 207,500 668,750
William B. Home 2018 246,436 25,000 2,230,000 940,180 12,857  (2)  3,454,473
Chief Financial Officer  (4) 2017 0 0 0 92,250 80,000 172,250
Amos Kohn 2018 350,000 0 0 0 34,887  (2) 384,687
President  (5) 2017 300,000 0 0 92,250 33,000  (2) 425,250

 

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(1) The values reported in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns represent the aggregate grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ ASC ”) 718  Share Based Payments , of grants of stock options and stock awards to our named executive officer in the years shown.
(2) The amounts in “All Other Compensation” consist of health insurance benefits, long-term and short-term disability insurance benefits, and 401K matching amounts.
(4) Mr. Ault was appointed as our Chief Executive Officer on December 28, 2017. Amounts included in “All Other Compensation” consist of cash fees earned as an independent contractor.
(4) Mr. Horne was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer on January 25, 2018. Amounts included in “All Other Compensation” consist of cash fees earned as a director.
(3) Mr. Kohn also served as our Chief Executive Officer until December 28, 2017.

 

  Employment agreement with Milton C. Ault, III

 

On June 17, 2018, the Company entered into a ten year executive employment agreement with Milton C. Ault, III, to serve as Chief Executive Officer (the “ Ault Employment Agreement ”). For his services, Mr. Ault will be paid a salary of $400,000 per annum subject to such further upward adjustments as shall be determined annually by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the “ Compensation Committee ”).

 

Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Ault Employment Agreement, if the Company meets or exceeds criteria adopted by the Compensation Committee for earning bonuses which shall be adopted by the Compensation Committee annually, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive an annual bonus, which percentage shall be based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Compensation Committee.

 

Further, Mr. Ault is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (A) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 50,000 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning on January 1, 2020, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the SEC that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Ault, which consent may be withheld in his discretion, and (B) an option to purchase 25,000 shares of common stock of the Company at a per share price equal to $16.00, which option will vest over 60 months.

 

In addition the foregoing, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive a performance-based award (the “ CEO Performance Award ”), provided that the Company, for any given fiscal year during the term of this Agreement, meets the following criteria: (A) an increase in revenue, as calculated under GAAP over the previous fiscal year as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year; provided that any increase less than thirty-five percent (35%) (the “ Revenue Percentage ”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; (B) positive net income, as calculated under GAAP, as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year, provided that any increase less than five percent (5%) (the “ Net Income Percentage ”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; and (C) positive net cash flow from operations on a year-to-year basis, where cash flow is defined as the net amount of cash and cash-equivalents being transferred into and out of the Company. The CEO Performance Award shall consist of a number of shares of the Company’s common stock having a maximum value equal to ten percent (10%) of any appreciation in the Company’s Market Capitalization (as defined in the Ault Employment Agreement) above the High Water Mark (as defined in the Ault Employment Agreement) as measured by the daily average closing bid price of the Company’s common stock for the applicable fiscal year subject to proration obtained by the product of Revenue Percentage and the Net Income Percentage. If the CEO Performance Award in a fiscal year is less than ten percent (10%) due to a reduction caused by an annual shortfall in either the Revenue Percentage or the Net Income Percentage, the prior year’s targets would be deemed to have been achieved if a corresponding overage in a subsequent fiscal year results in the achievement of the cumulative targets. The annual and cumulative targets for revenue and net income, which are provided solely for the purpose of establishing cumulative totals, are set forth in the Ault Employment Agreement.

 

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Upon termination of Mr. Ault’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Ault shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

 

Further, unless Mr. Ault’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Ault’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Ault a “ Separation Payment ” as follows: (A) an amount equal to four (4) weeks of base salary for each full year of service and credit for his service commencing from September 22, 2016, (B) should Mr. Ault provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “ Separation Period ”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, but in no event an amount greater than the Base Salary payable should either such period expire within two years, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Ault is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Ault would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months. Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Ault will be paid an amount equal to the greater of: (i) five times his then current Base Salary or (ii) the Separation Payment amount set forth above, without regard to whether Mr. Ault continues in the employ of the Company or its successor.

 

Employment agreement with William B. Horne

 

On January 25, 2018, we entered into a five-year employment agreement with William Horne to serve as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the Company and its subsidiaries, as subsequently amended.  For his services, Mr. Horne will be paid a base salary of $300,000 per annum. Upon signing of the employment agreement, Mr. Horne received a signing bonus in the amount of $25,000.  In addition, Mr. Horne shall be eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee.

 

Further, Mr. Horne is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (i) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 50,000 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest in installments of ten thousand (10,000) shares annually over five (5) years beginning on January 1, 2019, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the SEC  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Horne, which consent may be withheld in his discretion, and (ii) an option to purchase 25,000 shares of common stock of the Company at a per share price equal to $46.40, the closing market price of the shares of common stock on January 24, 2018, which option will vest over 60 months.

 

Mr. Horne’s bonuses, if any, and all stock based compensation shall be subject to “ Company Clawback Rights ” if during the period that Mr. Horne is employed by the Company and upon the termination of Mr. Horne’s employment and for a period of two years thereafter, if there is a restatement of any of the Company’s financial results from which any bonuses and stock based compensation to Mr. Horne shall have been determined.

 

Upon termination of Mr. Horne’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Horne shall be entitled to receive: (i) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (ii) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation time.

 

  - 40  
 

 

Further, unless Mr. Horne’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Horne’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Horne a “ Separation Payment ” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (B) should Mr. Horne provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “ Separation Period ”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Horne is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Horne would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Horne will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment.

 

Employment Agreement with Amos Kohn

 

On November 30, 2016, as amended on February 22, 2017, the Company entered into an employment agreement with Amos Kohn to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer with an effective date of September 22, 2016.

 

For his services, Mr. Kohn will be paid a salary of $300,000 per annum increasing to $350,000 per annum provided that the Company achieves revenues in the aggregate amount of at least $10,000,000 as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP for the trailing four calendar quarters.

 

In addition, Mr. Kohn shall be eligible for an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee after conferring with Mr. Kohn. The target amount of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus shall be 25% to 50% of his then annual base salary but may be greater upon mutual agreement between Mr. Kohn and the compensation committee.

 

Further, Mr. Kohn is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (i) ten-year warrants to purchase 15,873 shares of the Company's Common Stock (the "Warrant Grant") at an exercise price of $0.01 per share subject to vesting quarterly over two years effective January 1, 2017; and (ii) ten-year options to purchase 50,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.65 per share. The option to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock is subject to the following vesting schedule: (1) options to purchase 25,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest upon the effective date; (2) options to purchase 12,500 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over six months beginning with the first month after the effective date; and (3) options to purchase 12,500 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date. As part of the grant of the options to purchase 50,000 shares, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 26,750 shares of Common Stock previously granted to him under the Company’s Incentive Share Option Plans.

 

In the event that Mr. Kohn is terminated by the Company without cause, or if Mr. Kohn resigns for good reason, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to (i) all annual salary earned prior to the termination date, any earned but unpaid portion of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus for the year preceding in which such termination occurred and any earned but unpaid paid time off; (ii) an amount equal to 100% of Mr. Kohn’s then in effect annual base salary plus an additional 1/12th of Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary for each year of employment with the Company prior to such termination; (iii) an amount equal to the average of Mr. Kohn’s two prior years’ annual bonuses (with such average not to exceed 50% of the Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary in effect at the time of termination) prorated for the portion of the year that executive was employed; (iv) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and held by Mr. Kohn through the termination date and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn’s restricted stock shall cease; and (v) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at Company expense for a period of not less than 18 months.

 

If Mr. Kohn is terminated without cause, or resigns for good reason within 12 months of a change of control, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to receive: (i) payment in a lump sum of Mr. Kohn annual base salary for 24 months and any accrued, unused paid time-off; (ii) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn restricted stock shall cease; and (iii) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at the Company’s expense for a period of not less than 18 months.

 

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Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation

 

At the annual meeting of stockholders on December 28, 2016, the stockholders approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers. At the annual meeting on August 12, 2013, the stockholders voted, on an advisory basis, that an advisory vote on executive compensation should be held every three years.

 

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table provides information on outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 2018 to the Named Executive Officers.

  

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2018
OPTION AWARDS
Name

 

Number of 
Securities 
Underlying 
Unexercised 
Options (#) 
Exercisable

 

Number of 
Securities 
Underlying 
Unexercised 
Options (#) 
Unexercisable
Equity Incentive Plan 
Awards: Number of 
Securities Underlying 
Unexercised 
Unearned Options (#)
Option 
Exercise 
Price ($)
Option 
Expiration 
Date
Milton C. Ault III 6,771  (1) 18,229 $27.60 11/28/2027
  3,125  (2) 21,875 $16.00 6/17/2018
William B. Horne 1,354  (3) 3,646 $27.60 11/28/2027
  4,583  (4) 20,417 $46.40 1/25/2018
Amos Kohn 50,000  (5) $13.00 11/3/2026
  15,873  (6) $0.20 11/3/2026
  1,354  (7) 3,646 $27.60 11/28/2027

 

 

(1) Represents options to purchase 25,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $27.60 per share subject to vesting monthly over four years beginning November 28, 2017 granted to Mr. Ault.

 

(2) Represents options to purchase 25,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $16.00 per share subject to vesting monthly over four years beginning June 17, 2018 granted to Mr. Ault.

 

(3) Represents options to purchase 5,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $27.60 per share subject to vesting monthly over four years beginning November 28, 2017 granted to Mr. Horne.

 

(4) Represents options to purchase 25,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $46.40 per share subject to vesting monthly over five years beginning January 25, 2018 granted to Mr. Horne.

  

(5) On November 3, 2016, Mr. Kohn was granted options to 50,000 shares of Common Stock at $13.00 per share. The options to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock are subject to the following vesting schedule: (1) options to purchase 25,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest upon the effective date; (2) options to purchase 12,500 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over six months beginning with the first month after the effective date; and (3) options to purchase 12,500 shares of common stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date. In connection with the grant of options to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 26,750 shares of common stock previously granted to him under the Company’s 2012 Plan.

 

(6) Represents warrants to purchase 15,873 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.20 per share subject to vesting quarterly over two years beginning January 1, 2017 granted to Mr. Kohn in connection with his employment agreement.

 

(7) Represents options to purchase 5,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $27.60 per share subject to vesting monthly over four years beginning November 28, 2017 granted to Mr. Kohn.

 

  - 42  
 

 

Stock Option Plans

 

On December 28, 2018, the stockholder’s approved the 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2018 Stock Incentive Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 500,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants. The 2018 Stock Incentive Plan is in addition to the Company’s (i) 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 100,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, (ii) 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016 Stock Incentive Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 200,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, and (ii) 2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “2012 Plan”), which provides for the issuance of a maximum of 68,632 shares of the Company’s common stock to be offered to the Company’s directors, officers, employees, and consultants (collectively the “ Plans ”).

 

The purpose of the Plans is to advance the interests of the Company by providing to key employees of the Company and its affiliates, who have substantial responsibility for the direction and management of the Company, as well as certain directors and consultants of the Company, additional incentives to exert their best efforts on behalf of the Company, to increase their proprietary interest in the success of the Company, to reward outstanding performance and to provide a means to attract and retain persons of outstanding ability to the service of the Company. 

 

As of December 31, 2018, options to purchase 173,125 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding, and 507,789 shares are available for future issuance under the Plans.

 

401(k) Plan

 

We have adopted a tax-qualified employee savings and retirement plan, or 401(k) plan, which generally covers all of our full-time employees. Pursuant to the 401(k) plan, eligible employees may make voluntary contributions to the plan up to a maximum of 5% of eligible compensation. The 401(k) plan permits, but does not require, matching contributions by the Company on behalf of plan participants. We match contributions at the rate of (1) $1.00 for each $1.00 contributed, up to 3% of the base salary and (2) $0.50 for each $1.00 contributed thereafter, up to 5% of the base salary. We are also permitted under the plan to make discretionary contributions. The 401(k) plan is intended to qualify under Sections 401(k) and 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Contributions to such a qualified plan are deductible by the Company when made, and neither the contributions nor the income earned on those contributions is taxable to plan participants until withdrawn. All 401(k) plan contributions are credited to separate accounts maintained in trust.  

 

 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

 

Except as otherwise indicated below, the following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial ownership of our common stock as of the Record Date by (1) each of our current directors; (2) each of the named executive officers listed in the Summary Compensation Table located above in the section entitled “Executive Compensation”; (3) each person known to us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of our common stock based upon Schedules 13G or 13D filed with the SEC; and (4) all of our directors and executive officers as a group. As of the Record Date, there were 37,735,115 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding.

 

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and includes voting or investment power with respect to the securities. Common stock subject to options or warrants that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date are deemed to be outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person or group holding such options or warrants for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of such person or group, but are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person or group. Unless otherwise indicated by footnote, to our knowledge, the persons named in the table have sole voting and sole investment power with respect to all common stock shown as beneficially owned by them, subject to applicable community property laws. Unless otherwise indicated below, the address of each beneficial owner listed below is c/o DPW Holdings, Inc., 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, California 92663.

 

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Name and address of beneficial owner  

Number of

Shares beneficially owned

 

Approximate

Percentage

Directors and executive officers:  (1)            
Milton Ault, III     351,445 (2)   *
Amos Kohn     80,017 (3)   *
Robert Smith     21,649 (4)   *
William Horne     31,833 (5)   *
Moti Rosenberg     16,010 (6)   *
Jeffrey A. Bentz     8,579 (7)   *
Henry Nisser     0      - - -
All directors and executive officers as a group (seven persons)     509,533     1.3%

 

*Less than one percent.

 

(1) Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is c/o DPW Holdings, Inc., 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663.
(2) Includes 314,864 shares beneficially owned by Philou Ventures, 15,268 shares and warrants to purchase 3,750 shares of common stock beneficially owned by Ault & Company, Inc. (“ Ault & Company ”) that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date, which may be deemed beneficially owned by Mr. Ault. Also includes 1,730 shares and options owned by Mr. Ault to purchase 15,833 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date. Mr. Ault is the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company.
(3) Includes options to purchase 52,083 shares and warrants to purchase 20,206 shares of common stock exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.
(4) Includes options to purchase 17,315 and warrants to purchase 2,167 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.
(5) Includes options to purchase 19,583 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.
(6) Consists of options to purchase shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.
(7) Includes options to purchase 8,229 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.

  

Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

The following table sets forth certain information as of December 31, 2018, with respect to compensation plans under which the Company’s equity securities are authorized for issuance:

 

    Number of Shares           Number of Options
    of Common Stock     Weighted-     Remaining Available for
    to be Issued     Average     Future Issuance Under
    upon Exercise     Exercise Price     Equity Compensation Plans
    of Outstanding     of Outstanding     (excluding securities
    Options     Options     reflected in column (a))
Plan Category   (a)     (b)     (c)
Equity compensation plans approved by
stockholders  (1)
    388,873     $ 20.3847     $ 507,789
                       

  

(1) Includes warrants to purchase 15,873 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.20 per share of common stock that were issued to Mr. Kohn and approved the Company’s stockholders in December 2017 and options to purchase 199,875 shares of common stock at an average exercise price of $26.09 per share of common stock that were issued to the Company’s officers and directors and approved the Company’s stockholders in December 2017 and 2018.

 

  - 44  
 

 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

 

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our stockholder and directors during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. On September 22, 2016,  Philou Ventures became our largest stockholder when it acquired all of the common stock of a prior stockholder, Telkoor Telecom, Ltd. Philou Ventures’ Manager is Ault & Company, Inc., the Chief Executive Officer of which is Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board.

 

Philou Ventures, LLC

 

On March 9, 2017, we entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Philou Ventures. Philou Ventures is the Company’s largest single stockholder. Milton C. Ault is the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, the Manager of Philou Ventures. Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, Philou Ventures may invest up to $5,000,000 in us through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock (“Preferred Stock”) over the Term, as specified herein. Each share of Preferred Stock shall be purchased at $10.00 up to a maximum issuance of 500,000 shares of Preferred Stock. Philou Ventures guaranteed to purchase by May 31, 2017, the greater of: (i) 100,000 shares of Preferred Stock or (ii) a sufficient number of shares of Preferred Stock to ensure that we have sufficient stockholders’ equity to meet the minimum continued listing standards of the NYSE American. In addition, for as long as the Preferred Stock is outstanding, Philou Ventures agrees to purchase additional shares of Preferred Stock in a sufficient amount in order us to meet the NYSE American’s minimum stockholders’ equity continued listing requirement subject to the maximum number of 500,000 shares of Preferred Stock (collectively, “Guaranteed Purchases”). In addition, at any time during the Term, Philou Ventures may in its sole and absolute discretion purchase additional shares of Preferred Stock, up to the 500,000 share maximum (“Voluntary Purchases”). All consideration for Voluntary Purchases shall be delivered through a series of varying payments (“Payments”) by Philou Ventures, at its sole and absolute discretion, during the period commencing on the closing date and ending 36 months therefrom (the “Term”). We have the right to request, with 90-day written notice to Philou Ventures, that Guaranteed Purchases be accelerated to meet deadlines for maintaining the minimum stockholders’ equity required by the NYSE American. The Preferred Stock shall not be callable by us for 25 years from the closing date.

 

In addition, for each share of Preferred Stock purchased by Philou Ventures, Philou Ventures will receive warrants to purchase shares of common stock in a number equal to the stated value of each share of Preferred Stock of $10.00 purchased divided by $14.00 at an exercise price equal to $14.00 per share of common stock

 

Further, Philou Ventures shall have the right to participate in our future financings under substantially the same terms and conditions as other investors in those respective financings in order to maintain its then percentage ownership interest. Philou Ventures’ right to participate in such financings shall accrue and accumulate provided that it still owns at least 100,000 shares of Preferred Stock.

 

On December 29, 2016, MCKEA Holdings, LLC  ( MCKEA ”) lent us $250,000 in the form of a demand note bearing simple interest at 6.0%. MCKEA is the majority member of Philou Ventures, LLC, which is the Company’s controlling stockholder. Kristine L. Ault, a former director and the wife of Milton C. Ault III, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors, is the manager and owner of MCKEA. On March 24, 2017, MCKEA cancelled the $250,000 demand note to purchase 25,000 shares of Preferred Stock and received warrants to purchase 17,857 shares of common stock at $14.00 per share.

 

On March 20, 2017, Philou arranged for the Company to receive a $250,000 short-term loan. Between May 5, 2017 and June 2, 2017, Philou purchased an additional 75,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement in consideration of the cancellation of the Company debt due to Philou from the $250,000 short term loan and cash of $500,000. In addition, Philou received warrants to purchase 53,571 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.00 per share of common stock. On April 24, 2018, Philou purchased an additional 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock in consideration of the cancellation of short-term advances due to Philou in the aggregate amount of $250,000. In addition, Philou received warrants to purchase 17,857 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.00 per share of common stock.

 

  - 45  
 

 

Avalanche International, Corp.

 

On October 5, 2016, November 30, 2016, and February 22, 2017, the Company entered into three 12% Convertible Promissory Notes with Avalanche International Corp., a Nevada company (“ Avalanche ”), in the principal amount of $525,000 each (the “ AVLP Notes ”). The AVLP Notes included a 5% original issue discount, resulting in net loans to Avalanche of $1,500,000 and an original issue discount of $75,000. The AVLP Notes accrued interest at 12% per annum and were due on or before two years from the origination dates of each AVLP Note. The Company had the right, at its option, to convert all or any portion of the principal and accrued interest into shares of common stock of Avalanche (“ AVLP Common Stock ”) at approximately $0.74536 per share. Subject to adjustment, the AVLP Notes, inclusive of the original issue discount, were convertible into 2,113,086 shares of the Company’s common stock. During the period from March 29, 2017 to August 16, 2017, the Company funded $1,808,952 in excess of the $1,500,000 net loan amount required pursuant to the terms of the AVLP Notes

 

On September 6, 2017, the Company and Avalanche entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (“ AVLP Loan Agreement ”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017, pursuant to which the Company will provide Avalanche a non-revolving credit facility of up to $10,000,000, inclusive of prior amounts loaned to Avalanche, for a period ending on August 21, 2019.

 

In consideration of entering into the AVLP Loan Agreement, the Company and Avalanche cancelled the AVLP Notes and consolidated the AVLP Notes and prior advances totaling $3,308,952 plus original issue discount of $165,448 and issued a new Convertible Promissory Note in the aggregate principal amount of $3,474,400 (the “ New Note ”), which is convertible into shares of AVLP Common Stock at a conversion price of $0.50 per share. The New Note is due in two years and accrues interest at 12% per annum on the principal amount. Prior interest accrued under the AVLP Notes and advances will continue to be an obligation of Avalanche. The New Note contains standard events of defaults. In addition, concurrent to issuing the New Note, Avalanche issued to the Company a five-year warrant to purchase 6,948,800 shares of AVLP Common Stock at $0.50 per share. Future advances under the AVLP Loan Agreement are evidenced by a convertible promissory note containing a conversion price feature of $0.50 per share and warrant with an exercise price of $0.50 per share. Further, under the terms of the AVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by Avalanche are secured by its assets.

 

At December 31, 2018, the Company had provided Avalanche with $6,943,997 pursuant to the non-revolving credit facility. The warrants issued in conjunction with the non-revolving credit facility entitles the Company to purchase up to 13,887,994 shares of AVLP Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of five years. The exercise price of $0.50 is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis.

 

On August 22, 2017, pursuant to the terms of a Share Exchange Agreement dated as of March 3, 2017, and as amended on July 13, 2017 and August 21, 2017 (the “ Exchange Agreement ”) with MTIX Ltd., a company formed under the laws of England and Wales (“ MTIX ”) and the three (3) shareholders of MTIX (the “ Sellers ”), Avalanche completed its acquisition of MTIX. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Exchange Agreement, Avalanche acquired MTIX from the Sellers through the transfer of all issued and outstanding ordinary shares of MTIX by the Sellers to Avalanche in exchange for the issuance by Avalanche of: (a) 7% secured convertible promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $9,500,000 to the Sellers in pro rata amounts commensurate with their current respective ownership percentages of MTIX’s ordinary shares, (b) (i) $500,000 in cash, $50,000 of which was paid on October 26, 2016, and (ii) 100,000 shares of Avalanche’s newly designated shares of Class B Convertible Preferred Stock to the principal shareholder of MTIX.

 

Milton C. Ault, III, and William Horne, two of our directors, are directors of Avalanche. In addition, based on Avalanche’s Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2015, Philou Ventures is the largest stockholder of Avalanche. Philou Ventures is our largest stockholder, and Ault & Company, whose Chief Executive Officer is Mr. Ault, is the Manager of Philou Ventures.

 

MTIX Limited

 

MTIX has developed a novel cost effective and environmentally friendly material synthesis technology for textile applications. Designed for global textile manufacturers, the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“ MLSE ”) plasma-laser system uses a combination of plasma and photonic energy to effect material synthesis of a substrate surface. The laser and gasses from the system deliver a dry process to enhance the surface of fabric. During March 2017 the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million contract by MTIX to manufacture, install and service the MLSE plasma-laser system. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company has recognized $3,907,280 and $173,751, respectively, in revenue from MTIX, of which $3,887,654 was reflected as accounts receivable, related party at December 31, 2018.

 

  - 46  
 

 

On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with WT Johnson & Sons (Huddersfield) Limited (the “ Holder ”), pursuant to which the Company issued to the Holder, (a) a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $600,000 (“ Note A ”), and (b) a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $1,667,766 (“ Note B ”), in exchange for cancellation of (i) an outstanding loan made by the Holder to MTIX in the amount of $265,766; and (ii) cancellation of an aggregate of $2,002,000 owed by MTIX to the Holder pursuant to an Agreement for the Sale and Purchase of a Textile Multi-Laser Enhancement Technology Machine dated as of July 21, 2017 by and between MTIX and the Holder.

 

Note A is convertible into the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $1.00 per share, does not bear interest, and matures two years from issuance. Note B is convertible into the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $0.85 per share, does not bear interest, and matures two years from issuance. However, the Holder shall not have the right to convert any portion of Note B, following receipt by the Holder of an aggregate of $2,267,766 of gross proceeds from the sale of shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of Note A or Note B.

 

During December 2017, the Company issued 30,000 shares of its common stock upon the conversion of Note A and the Holder notified the Company that gross proceeds during the month of December 2017 from sales of the 30,000 shares of common stock were sufficient to satisfy the entire $2,267,766 obligation. As a result of entering into the exchange agreement with the Holder, MTIX is obligated to pay the Company $2,668,266, consisting of the amount of the exchange agreement of $2,267,766 and a value added tax of $400,500 from the sale of the Textile Multi-Laser Enhancement Technology Machine. 

 

 

PROPOSALS OF STOCKHOLDERS FOR THE 2020 ANNUAL MEETING

 

If you want to submit a proposal for inclusion in our proxy statement for the 2020 Annual Meeting of stockholders, you may do so by following the procedures in Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act. To be eligible for inclusion, stockholder proposals (other than nominees for directors) must be received at the Company’s principal executive office, at the following address 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663, Attention: Secretary, no later than February 28, 2020 (120 days before the anniversary of this year’s mailing date).

 

A stockholder’s notice to the Secretary must set forth as to each matter the stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting: (i) a description in reasonable detail of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting, (ii) the name and address, as they appear on the Company’s books, of the stockholder proposing such business and of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, (iii) such information regarding each director nominee or each matter of business to be proposed by such stockholder as would be required to be included in a proxy statement filed pursuant to the proxy rules of the U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, had the nominee been nominated, or intended to be nominated, or the matter been proposed, or intended to be proposed by the Board; (iv) if applicable, the consent of each nominee to be named in the proxy statement and to serve as director of the Company if so elected; (v) the class and number of shares of the Company that are owned beneficially and of record by the stockholder proposing such business and by the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, and (vi) any material interest of such stockholder proposing such business and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made in such business.

 

Stockholder proposals intended to be presented at the 2020 Annual Meeting must be received by the Company no later than reasonable time in advance of the date of the 2020 Annual Meeting, which in the Company’s opinion would be no less than 120 days before that date (pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act) to be eligible for inclusion in the Company’s proxy statement and form of proxy for next year’s meeting. The Company has yet to determine the date of its 2020 Annual Meeting. Proposals should be addressed to DPW Holdings, Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663.

 

  - 47  
 

 

For any proposal that is not submitted for inclusion in next year’s proxy statement (as described in the preceding paragraph), but is instead sought to be presented directly at the 2020 Annual Meeting, the federal securities laws require Stockholders to give advance notice of such proposals. The required notice must (pursuant to Rule 14a-4 of the Exchange Act), be given no less than a reasonable time in advance of the date of the 2020 Annual Meeting, which in the Company’s opinion would be no less than 45 days before that date. The Company has yet to determine the date of its 2020 Annual Meeting. Any such notice must be provided to DPW Holdings, Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663. If a stockholder fails to provide timely notice of a proposal to be presented at the 2020 Annual Meeting, the chairman of the meeting will declare it out of order and disregard any such matter.

 

OTHER BUSINESS

 

The Board knows of no business to be brought before the Meeting other than as set forth above. If other matters properly come before the stockholders at the meeting, it is the intention of the persons named on the proxy to vote the shares represented thereby on such matters in accordance with their judgment.

 

By Order of the Board of Directors,

 

 /s/ Milton C. Ault  
Milton C. Ault, III
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
   
June 7, 2019

 

   - 48 -  
 

 

APPENDIX A

 

  UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

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

 

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

Commission file number 1-12711

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware 94-1721931
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)  (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
   

 

201 Shipyard Way, Suite E Newport Beach, CA 92663 (510) 657-2635
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) (Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share NYSE American

 

Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes   ¨      No  þ

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.  Yes   ¨      No  þ

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes   þ      No  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer   ¨ Accelerated filer  ¨
Non-accelerated filer   ¨ Smaller reporting company  þ
Emerging growth company   ¨  

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes   ¨      No  þ

 

As of June 29, 2018, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $31,701,549 based on the closing sale price as reported on the NYSE American of $10.84. Such determination should not be deemed an admission that such directors, officers, or 10% beneficial owners are, in fact, affiliates of the registrant.

 

There were 23,189,615 shares of common stock outstanding as of April 12, 2019.

 

Documents incorporated by reference: None

 

 
  1  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

FORM 10-K

 

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

INDEX

 

      Page
PART I      
Item 1.   Description of Business 3
Item 1A.   Risk Factors 12
Item 1B.   Unresolved Staff Comments 39
Item 2.   Description of Properties 39
Item 3.   Legal Proceedings 39
Item 4.   Mine Safety Disclosures 40
PART II      
Item 5.   Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 40
Item 6.   Selected Financial Data 42
Item 7.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 42
Item 7A.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. 50
Item 8.   Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. F-1 – F-76
Item 9.   Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 50
Item 9A.   Controls and Procedures 50
Item 9B.   Other Information 52
PART III      
Item 10.   Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 52
Item 11.   Executive Compensation 5 6
Item 12.   Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 61
Item 13.   Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 62
Item 14.   Principal Accountant Fees and Services 6 4
PART IV      
Item 15.   Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules. 65
Item 16.   Form 10-K Summary 70
    S ignatures 71

 

  2  
 

  

NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Annual Report on Form 10-K (the “ Annual Report ”) contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. We have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “potential,” “predict,” “should” or “will” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions; uncertainties and other factors may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels or activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Our expectations are as of the date this Annual Report is filed, and we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date this Annual Report is filed to confirm these statements to actual results, unless required by law.

 

This Annual Report also contains estimates and other statistical data made by independent parties and by us relating to market size and growth and other industry data. This data involves a number of assumptions and limitations, and you are cautioned not to give undue weight to such estimates. We have not independently verified the statistical and other industry data generated by independent parties and contained in this Annual Report and, accordingly, we cannot guarantee their accuracy or completeness, though we do generally believe the data to be reliable. In addition, projections, assumptions and estimates of our future performance and the future performance of the industries in which we operate are necessarily subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of factors, including those described in “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report. These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the estimates made by the independent parties and by us.

 

 

PART I

 

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

 

General

 

We are a growth company seeking to increase our revenues through acquisitions. Our strategy reflects our management and Board’s current philosophy which we began implementing upon the change in control that was completed in September 2016. Our acquisition and development target strategy include companies that have developed a “new way of doing business” in mature, well-developed industries experiencing changes due to new technology; companies that may become profitable or more profitable through efficiency and reduction of costs; companies whose business is related to our core business in the commercial and defense industries; and companies that will enhance our overall revenues. We plan to substantially increase our gross revenues in the foreseeable future.

 

We operate as a holding company with operations conducted primarily through our subsidiaries. We conduct our activities in a manner so as not to be deemed an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “ Investment Company Act ”). Generally, this means that we do not invest or intend to invest in securities as our primary business and that no more than 40% of our total assets will be invested in investment securities as such term is defined in the Investment Company Act. We are a diversified holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in the following operating businesses: commercial and defense solutions, commercial lending, cryptocurrency blockchain mining and advanced textile technology. We also maintain a large investment in Avalanche International, Corp., which does business as MTIX International.

 

Originally, we were primarily a solution-driven organization that designed, developed, manufactured and sold high-grade customized and flexible power system solutions for the medical, military, telecom and industrial markets. Although we are actively seeking growth through acquisitions, we will continue to focus on high-grade and custom product designs for the commercial, medical and military/defense markets, where customers demand high density, high efficiency and ruggedized products to meet the harshest and/or military mission critical operating conditions.

 

We have operations located in Europe through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Digital Power Limited (“ DP Limited ”), Salisbury, England, which operates under the brand name of “Gresham Power Electronics” (“ Gresham ”). DP Limited designs, manufactures and sells power products and system solutions mainly for the European marketplace, including power conversion, power distribution equipment, DC/AC (Direct Current/Active Current) inverters and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) products. Our European defense business is specialized in the field of naval power distribution products.

 

  3  
 

 

On November 30, 2016, we formed Digital Power Lending, LLC (“ DP Lending ”), a wholly-owned subsidiary. DP Lending provides commercial loans to companies throughout the United States to provide them with operating capital to finance the growth of their businesses. The loans range in duration from six months to three years, DP Lending operates under California Finance Lending License #60DBO-77905.

 

On June 2, 2017, we purchased 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation (“ Microphase ”). Microphase is a design-to-manufacture original equipment manufacturer (“ OEM ”) industry leader delivering world-class radio frequency (“ RF ”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“ DLVA ”) to the military, aerospace and telecommunications industries. Microphase is headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut.

 

On April 25, 2017, we formed Coolisys Technologies, Inc. (“ Coolisys ”), a wholly-owned subsidiary. Coolisys operates its existing businesses in the customized and flexible power system solutions for the medical, military, telecom, commercial and industrial markets, other than the European markets which are primarily served by DP Limited, in Coolisys. We intend to reorganize our corporate structure to make Digital Power North American operations, operated by our subsidiary Gresham, and Microphase, a subsidiary of Coolisys and as such an indirect subsidiary of ours.

 

On September 1, 2017, Coolisys acquired all of the outstanding membership interests in Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC, a California limited liability company (“ Power-Plus ”). Power-Plus is an industrial distributor of value added power supply solutions, UPS systems, fans, filters, line cords, and other power-related components. In addition to its current business, Power-Plus will serve as an extended sales organization for our overall flexible power system solutions.

 

On December 31, 2017, Coolisys entered into a share purchase agreement with Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. (“MICT”), a Delaware corporation, Enertec Management Ltd., an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of MICT (“EML”), and Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“Enertec”), an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of EML, pursuant to which Coolisys acquired Enertec. Enertec is Israel’s largest private manufacturer of specialized electronic systems for the military market. On May 23, 2018, Coolisys completed its acquisition of Enertec.

 

On May 23, 2018, DP Lending entered into and closed a securities purchase agreement to acquire 98.1% of I.AM, Inc. (“I.AM”), for a purchase price of $981. I.AM owns and operates the Prep Kitchen brand restaurants located in the San Diego area. I.AM owed DP Lending $1,715,330 in outstanding principal, pursuant to a loan and security agreement, between I.AM and DP Lending, that I.AM used to acquire the restaurants.

 

We are a Delaware corporation, initially formed in California in 1969 and reincorporated in Delaware in 2017. We are located at 201 Shipyard Way, Suite E Newport Beach, CA 92663. Our phone number is 510-657-2635 and our website address is www.dpwholdings.com.

 

Recent Events

 

On September 18, 2017, the Board of Directors of Digital Power Corporation voted unanimously to recommend a number of proposals to be voted upon at its annual meeting (the “ Meeting ”), including a proposal to approve a change in domicile from California to Delaware (the “ Reincorporation ”). On December 27, 2017, Digital Power Corporation approved the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “ Merger Agreement ”) providing for the merger (the “ Merger ”) of Digital Power Corporation with and into its wholly owned subsidiary DPW Holdings, Inc. (the “ Company ” or “ DPW ”). The Reincorporation, was approved at the Meeting, which was held on December 28, 2017.

 

The Reincorporation was consummated on December 29, 2017 pursuant to the Merger Agreement, whereby Digital Power Corporation merged with and into the Company with the Company as the surviving corporation operating as DPW Holdings, Inc. Following the Merger, the Company’s corporate existence is governed by the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

Upon consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement and resulting Reincorporation, the daily business operations of the Company continued as they were conducted by Digital Power Corporation immediately prior to the Reincorporation and the officers and directors of Digital Power Corporation became the officers and directors of the Company, except that Milton C. Ault III become the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Amos Kohn remained as its President.

 

In January 2018, we formed Super Crypto Mining, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, which recently changed its name to Digital Farms, Inc. (“ DFI ”). DFI was established to operate our newly formed cryptocurrency business, which is pursuing a variety of digital currency. We mine the top three cryptocurrencies for our own account. These cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Litecoin and Ethereum.  

 

On January 25, 2018, we issued two 5% promissory notes, each in the principal face amount of $2.5 million for an aggregate debt of $5 million to two institutional investors. The proceeds from these two promissory notes were used to purchase 1,000 Antminer S9s (“ Miners ”) manufactured by Bitmain Technologies, Inc. in connection with our crypto mining operations. We received delivery of the Miners on February 1, 2018.

 

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On February 27, 2018, we entered into a sales agreement with H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC (“HCW”) to sell shares of our common stock, having an aggregate offering price of up to $50 million from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “HCW ATM Offering”) under which HCW acted as sales agent. Through September 23, 2018, when the HCW ATM Offering was terminated we had received net proceeds of approximately $18,059,187 through the sale of 1,062,096 shares of our common stock through the HCW ATM Offering. The offer and sale of the shares through the ATM Offering were made pursuant to our then effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the HCW ATM Offering, dated February 27, 2018.

 

On May 23, 2018, DP Lending entered into and closed a securities purchase agreement with I. AM, Inc. (“I. AM”), David J. Krause and Deborah J. Krause. Pursuant to the securities purchase agreement, I. AM sold to DP Lending, 981 shares of common stock for a purchase price of $981, representing, upon the closing, 98.1% of I. AM’s outstanding common stock. I. AM owns and operates the Prep Kitchen brand restaurants located in the San Diego area. I.AM owed DP Lending $1,715,330 in outstanding principal, pursuant to a loan and security agreement, between I. AM and DP Lending, which I. AM used to acquire the restaurants. The purchase agreement provides that, as I. AM repays the outstanding loan to DP Lending in accordance with the loan agreement, DP Lending will on a pro rata basis transfer shares of common stock of I. AM to David J. Krause, up to an aggregate of 471 shares.

 

On October 10, 2018, DPW Holdings Inc. (the “Company”) entered into an At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with Wilson-Davis & Co., Inc., as sales agent (the “Agent”) to sell shares of its Common Stock, having an aggregate offering price of up to $25,000,000 (the “Shares”) from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “WDCO ATM Offering”). Through April 1, 2019, when the WDCO ATM Offering was discontinued, we had received net proceeds of $6,050,499 through the sale of 5,163,751 shares of our common stock through the WDCO ATM Offering. The offer and sale of the shares through the WDCO ATM Offering were made pursuant to our then effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the WDCO ATM Offering, dated October 15, 2018.

 

On March 14, 2019, the stockholders approved a proposal permitting the Board of Directors to effect a reverse stock split (the “Reverse Split”) of our issued and outstanding Common Stock. Thereafter, on March 14, 2019, the Board of Directors approved the Reverse Split with a ratio of one for twenty. The Reverse Split did not affect the number of authorized shares of Common Stock or their par value per share. As a result of the Reverse Split, the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding was reduced from 126,025,767 to 6,301,289. The Reverse Split became effective in the State of Delaware on March 14, 2019. Beginning on March 18, 2019, the Common Stock traded on the NYSE American on a split-adjusted basis. All references to Common Stock in this Annual Report have been retroactively restated.

 

On March 29, 2019, we entered into an underwriting agreement with A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners (the “Underwriter”), pursuant to which we agreed to issue and sell an aggregate of (a) 2,855,500 shares of Common Stock (the “Shares”) together with warrants to purchase 2,855,500 shares of Common Stock and (the “Common Warrants”) and (b)  pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 12,700,000 shares of its Common Stock (the “Pre-Funded Warrants”) together with a number of Common Warrants to purchase 12,700,000 shares of common stock (the “April 2019 Offering”). The Shares were sold to the purchasers at the public offering price of $0.44 per share (the “Offering Price”). The Common Warrants were sold at a public offering price of $0.01 per Common Warrant. The Pre-Funded Warrants were offered to each purchaser whose purchase of the Shares and the Common Warrant in the April 2019 Offering would otherwise result in the purchaser, together with its affiliates and certain related parties, beneficially owning more than 4.99% of outstanding Common Stock immediately following the consummation of April 2019 Offering, in lieu of the Shares. The purchase price of each Pre-Funded Warrant equaled the Offering Price, minus $0.01, and the exercise price of each Pre-Funded Warrant equaled $0.01 per share.

 

Strategy

 

Our strategy to increase revenues through acquisitions was developed after a review of our current business. While we continue to maintain our core business of power system solutions for the military/aerospace, medical and industrial-telecommunication industries, we have determined that significant organic growth in these industries will be challenging due to our limited releases of new products offerings, insufficient sales and marketing force as a result of deferring research and development of new products because of limited working capital, and lack of financial size in industries traditionally dominated by more large, well established and capitalized power system solution companies.

 

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Therefore, we believe that the best strategy for us and our stockholders is to invest in our core business to support releases of advanced new power technologies and to expand our customer base and market share in our major markets. To support the organic growth, we have hired a number of additional personnel and are investing to enhance our product offerings with state of the art technology. While we implement our new organic growth strategy, we are focusing on finding and acquiring companies that have developed new technology but have been unable to exploit the technology because the lack of capital; companies that are run inefficiently due to the lack of experience or mismanagement; companies that can benefit from our expertise in the commercial and defense industries or companies that enhance our overall revenues. Further, as discussed below, we have made an investment in Avalanche which acquired the rights to a cost effective and environmentally friendly material synthesis technology for textile applications.

 

As a result of this strategy of revenue growth through acquisitions, we have hired a number of additional personnel and consultants to assist in identifying, analyzing, negotiating and acquiring potential companies and we will need to raise a substantial amount of capital for acquisitions and for supporting our infrastructure. We may invest in and continue to invest in companies that may experience losses until they can be integrated with our operations or until our cost reduction and efficiency changes can be implemented. Because of our increase in infrastructure expenses and investing in companies that demonstrate revenue potential but are initially incurring losses, we anticipate continuing to experience losses in the near future until revenues from these acquisitions exceed our expenses.

 

Led by our Chairman and CEO, Milton “Todd” Ault III, we seek to find undervalued companies and disruptive technologies with a global impact. We also use a traditional methodology for valuing stocks that primarily looks for deeply depressed prices. Upon making an investment, we often become actively involved in the companies we seek to acquire. That activity may involve a broad range of approaches, from influencing the management of a target to take steps to improve stockholder value, to acquiring a controlling interest or outright ownership of the target company in order to implement changes that we believe are required to improve its business, and then operating and expanding that business. Mr. Ault relies heavily on Mr. William B. Horne, the Company’s Vice Chairman and CFO, to provide analysis and guidance on all acquisition targets and throughout the acquisition process.

 

During the next several years, we see a favorable opportunity to follow an activist strategy that centers on the purchase of target stock and the subsequent removal of any barriers that might interfere with a friendly purchase offer from a strong buyer. Alternatively, in appropriate circumstances, we or our subsidiaries may become the buyer of target companies, adding them to our portfolio of operating subsidiaries, thereby expanding our operations through such opportunistic acquisitions. We believe that the companies that we target for our activist activities are undervalued for many reasons, often including inexperienced management. Unfortunately for the individual investor, in particular, and the economy, in general, many poor management teams are often unaccountable and very difficult to remove.

 

Core Business – Power Systems Solutions

 

We provide the highest density, highest efficiency and high-grade flexibility power supply products and systems. We provide full custom, standard and modify-standard product solutions and value-added services to diverse industries and markets including military/aerospace, medical and industrial- telecommunications.  We believe that our solutions leverage a combination of low leakage power emissions, very high-power density with superior power efficiency, flexible design leveraging customize firmware and short time to market.

 

Our strategy is to be the supplier of choice to companies, including OEMs, that require high-quality power system solutions where custom design, superior product, high quality, time to market and very competitive prices are critical to business success. We believe that we provide advanced custom product design services to deliver high-grade products that reach a high level of efficiency and density and can meet rigorous environmental requirements. Our customers benefit from a direct relationship with us that supports all of their needs for designing and manufacturing power solutions and products. By implementing our advanced core technology, including process implementation in integrated circuits, we can provide cost reductions to our customers by replacing their existing power sources with our custom design cost-effective products. Our target market segments include the industrial telecommunication, medical, and military/aerospace industries.

 

Custom Power System Solution.     We provide high-grade custom power system solutions to several customers in multiple industry segments. Our custom solution technology includes full Digital Signal Processing (“ DSP ”) control, digital load sharing intelligent power management and customizable firmware. The products feature high power density, special layout and multiple outputs to meet each of our customers’ unique requirements. We combine our power design capabilities with the latest circuit designs to provide complete power solutions for virtually any plausible need. In the design of custom power solutions, we work closely with our customers’ engineering teams to develop mechanical enclosures to ensure 100% compatibility with any hosted platform.

 

Our standard contract for custom power solutions includes a multi-year high-volume production forecast that allows us to secure long-term production guarantees (and therefore possible savings on manufacturing costs for volume orders) while providing an environment that promotes the development of our intellectual property (“ IP ”) portfolio.  We believe that this business model provides an incentive to our customers to be committed to high-volume production orders.

 

High-Grade Flexibility Series Power Supply Product . We offer our feature rich based power rectifiers that support flexible configuration and high-grade design implementation. This includes innovative designs and implementation including DSP control for Power Factor Correction (“ PFC ”) and DC/DC, synchronous rectifier outputs under DSP control, two phase PFC, hot pluggable, current sharing and other features. While some of our customers have special requirements that include a full custom design, other customers may require only certain electrical changes to standard power supply products, such as modified output voltages, unique status and control signals, and mechanical repackaging tailored to fit the specific application. We offer a wide range of standard and modified standard products that can be easily integrated with any platform across our diversified market segments. 

 

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Value-Added Services . In addition to our custom solutions and high-grade flexibility series proprietary products that we offer, we also provide value-added services to OEMs. We incorporate an OEM’s selected electronic components, enclosures, cable assemblies and other compliance components into our power system solutions to produce a power subassembly that is compatible with the OEM’s own equipment and specifically tailored to meet the OEM’s needs.  We purchase parts and components that the OEM itself would otherwise attach to, or integrate with, our power systems, and provide the OEM with the integration and installation service, thus eliminating the need for complex, time-consuming and costly system integration. We believe that this value-added service is well suited to those OEMs that wish to reduce their vendor base and minimize their investment in manufacturing, which would lead to increased fixed costs. Given access to these value-added services, the OEMs do not need to build assembly facilities to manufacture their own power sub-assemblies and thus are not required to purchase individual parts from many vendors.

  

Markets

 

We sell our custom power system solutions, high-grade flexibility series power supply products and value-added services to customers in a diverse range of commercial and defense industries and markets throughout the world, with an emphasis on North America and Europe. Our current customer base consists of approximately 220 companies, some of which are served through our partner channels. We serve the North American power electronics market primarily through our domestic wholly owned subsidiary Digital Power Corporation, whereas the European marketplace is served through DPL, another wholly-owned subsidiary.

 

We sell products to our OEM customers through direct sales or through our sales channels, including our manufacturers’ representatives and distributors.  Our sales strategy is to identify and focus on strategic accounts. This strategy allows us to maintain a close and direct relationship with such accounts, which positions us as the supplier of choice for these customers’ challenging, innovative and demanding new product requirements.  In striving for additional market share, we simultaneously seek to strengthen our traditional sales channels of manufacturer representatives and distributors. We plan to continue to build more channels and increase our market share through 2019.

 

Commercial Customers . We serve global commercial markets including medical, telecom, and industrial companies. Our products are used in a variety of applications and operate in a broad range of systems where customers require mission critical power reliability and occasionally extreme environmental conditions.

 

Military/Defense Customers . We have developed a broad range of rugged product solutions for the military and defense market, featuring the ability to withstand harsh environments.  These ruggedized product solutions, which include both custom modifications and full custom designs, are designed for combat environments and meet the requirements of our defense customers. We manufacture our military products through a domestic manufacturer that complies with US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ ITAR ”) and is certified to perform such manufacturing services. We are compliant with the ITAR regulations and are an approved vendor for the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Army.

 

At the core of every military electronic system is a power supply. Mission critical systems require rugged high performance power platforms that will operate and survive the harsh environmental conditions placed upon such systems. Our power supplies, which include the following, function effectively in these severe military environments, including Missiles – Ground-to-Air, Air-to-Air and Sea-to-Air; Naval – Naval power conversion and distribution; Mobile and Ground Communications – Active Protection, Communications and Navigation; Artillery – Gyro modular azimuth position and navigation system; Surveillance, test equipment; and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) – Very lightweight power systems.

 

Our military products meet the relevant defense standards MIL-STD in accordance with the Defense Standardization Program Policies and Procedures. Space, weight, output power, electromagnetic compatibility, power density and multiple output requirements are only part of the challenges that any military power supply design faces. With many decades of experience, our engineering teams meet these tough challenges. Our power supplies are a critical component of many major weapon systems worldwide.

 

Our wholly-owned subsidiary DPL develops and manufactures some military and defense products mainly being deployed in international naval fleets.

 

Digital Power Limited (Gresham Power Electronics)

 

Digital Power Limited, our wholly-owned subsidiary organized and headquartered in Salisbury, United Kingdom, designs, manufactures, and distributes switching power supplies, uninterruptible power supplies and power conversion and distribution equipment frequency converters for the commercial and military markets, under the name Gresham. Frequency converters manufactured by Gresham are used by naval warships to convert their generated 60-cycle electricity supply to 400 cycles. This 400-cycle supply is used to power their critical equipment such as gyro, compass, and weapons systems. Gresham also designs and manufactures transformer rectifiers for naval use. Typically, these provide battery supported back up for critical DC systems, such as machinery and communications.  In addition, higher power rectifiers are used for the starting and servicing of helicopters on naval vessels, and Gresham now supplies these as part of overall helicopter start and servicing systems. We believe that Gresham products add diversity to our product line, provide greater access to the United Kingdom and European markets, and strengthen our engineering and technical resources.

 

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Microphase Corporation

 

Microphase designs, manufactures and sells microwave electronics components for radar, electronic warfare (“ EW ”) and communication systems. Such components include radio frequency (“ RF ”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“ DLVAs ”). Microphase’s customers are comprised of the U.S. military and allied militaries, and contractors to the U.S. military including prime contractors and sub-contractors. Microphase’s recent technology innovations are used in many significant U.S. Government defense programs, including the Polaris submarine, the F-16, the F-35 and the Predator drone. Other notable programs in which Microphase’s products were used include the Atlas Missile, Vanguard Missile, Polaris Missile System, SHRIKE Missile, ARM Missile, Patriot Missile System, THAAD (or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense), the Samos, Tiros, and Currier Space Probes, the B-1 Bomber, the FB-111, EA-6B, F-14, F-16, F-18, JAS Gripen fighter, and the F-35 joint strike fighter plane, and more recently drone programs including the Predator, the Reaper and the Shadow.

 

Microphase’s advanced technology products enable the ultra-sensitive detection and high precision video amplification that are necessary in order to accurately recover the signals and facilitate use of the information received. These products include:

 

· filters that sort and clarify microwave signals, including multiplexers that are a series of filters combined in a single package;
· solid state amplifiers that amplify microwave signals;
· detectors and limiters that are semiconductor devices for detection of radar signals and protection of receivers from damage from high power signals and jamming;
· detector log video amplifiers that are fully integrated, ruggedized, “mil-spec” signal detection systems;
· integrated assemblies that combine multiple functions from a range of components and devices, including transmitters, receivers, filters, amplifiers, detectors, and other functionality into single, efficient, high performance, multifunction assemblies;
· electronic test and measurement probes;
· universal test and measurement test platforms and fixtures; and
· utility probes and antenna probes.

 

Manufacturing and Testing

 

Consistent with our strategy of focusing on custom design products and high-grade flexibility series products, we aim to maintain a high degree of flexibility in our manufacturing through the use of strategically focused contract manufacturers. We select contract manufacturers to ensure that they will meet our near-term cost, delivery, and quality goals. In addition, we believe these relationships will eventually give us access to new markets and beneficial cross-licensing opportunities. The competitive nature of the power supply industry has placed continual downward pressure on selling prices. In order to achieve our low-cost manufacturing goals with labor-intensive products, we have entered into manufacturing agreements with certain contract manufacturers domestically and in Asia.

 

We are continually improving our internal processes, while monitoring the processes of our contract manufacturers, to ensure the highest quality and consistent manufacturing of our power solutions. We test all of our products under stress operating conditions per defined test procedures we developed as part of the production process. This approach ensures that our customers can use our power supplies right out of the box. Customer specific testing services are offered with custom designed test stands to simulate operation within our customer applications.

 

Compliance with international safety agency standards is critical in every application, and power solutions play a major role in meeting these compliance requirements. Our safety engineers and quality assurance teams help ensure that our custom products are designed to meet all safety requirements and are appropriately documented to expedite safety approval processes.

 

Regulatory Requirements

 

We and our contract manufacturing partners are required to meet applicable regulatory, environmental, emissions, safety and other requirements where specified by the customer and accepted by us or as required by local regulatory or legal requirements. The products that we market and sell in Europe may be subject to the 2003 European Directive on Restriction of Hazardous Substances (“ RoHS ”), which restricts the use of six hazardous materials in the manufacturing of certain electronic and electrical equipment, as well as the 2002 European Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (“ WEEE ”), which determines collection, recycling and recovery goals for electrical goods. In July 2006, our industry began phasing in RoHS and WEEE requirements in most geographical markets with specific emphasis on consumer-based products. We believe that RoHS and WEEE-compliant components may be subject to longer lead-times and higher prices as the industry transitions to these new requirements.

 

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Some of our products are subject to ITAR regulation and restrictions, which is administered by the U.S. Department of State. ITAR controls not only the export of certain products specifically designed, modified, configured or adapted for military systems, but also the export of related technical data and defense services and foreign production. We obtain required export licenses for any exports subject to ITAR. Compliance with ITAR may require a prolonged period of time; if the process of obtaining required export licenses for products subject to ITAR is delayed, it could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results. Further, additional restrictions or charges may in the future be imposed by the United States or any other foreign country. In addition, from time to time, we enter into defense contracts to supply technology and products to foreign countries for programs that are funded and governed by the U.S. Foreign Military Financing program.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

We market our products directly through our internal sales force as well as through our channel partners including independent manufacturer representatives and distributors.  Each manufacturing representative promotes our products in a particular assigned geographic territory.  Generally, the manufacturing representatives have the opportunity to earn exclusive access to all potential customers in the assigned territory as a result of achieving their marketing and sales goals as defined in the representative agreement. Our manufacturer representative agreements provide for a commission equal to 5% of gross sales of new “design-in” and 1.75% to 2.0% of gross sales for retention, payable after products are shipped to the customer in the assigned territory. Typically, either we or the manufacturing representatives are entitled to terminate the manufacturing representative agreement upon 30 days’ written notice.

 

We provide comprehensive collateral including product data sheets, participation in trade shows, and our websites, www.digipwr.com and www.microphase.com. We use our website to emphasize our capabilities and marketing direction. All products specifications are uploaded onto our websites and accessible to the marketplace. We will continue to enhance our websites by adding more features and functionalities, such as e-commerce, that will allow our customers to make direct purchases through our website. Our future promotional activities will likely include advertising in industry-specific publications, as well as public relations for our new products.

 

Engineering and Technology

 

Our engineering and product development efforts are primarily directed toward developing new products in connection with custom product design and modification of our standard power systems to provide a broad array of individual models.

 

Our new custom product solutions are driven by our ability to provide to our customers advanced technology that meets their product needs and supports special operation and environmental requirements, with a short turnaround time and a very competitive price point. We believe that we are successfully executing our strategic account focus, as evidenced by the award of second and third generation product development contracts from some of these customers. Our standard contract for custom power solutions includes a multi-year high-volume production forecast that could allow us to secure long-term production guarantees while providing an environment that promotes the development of our IP portfolio.

 

We also outsource some of our product development projects to engineering partners in order to achieve the best technological and product design results for the targeted application customer requirements. When required, we also modify standard products to meet specific customer requirements, including, but not limited to, redesigning commercial products to meet MIL-STD requirements for military applications based on commercial off the shelf (“ COTS ”) products and for other customized product requirements, when applicable. We continually seek to improve our product power density, adaptability, and efficiency, while attempting to anticipate changing market demands for increased functionality, such as PFC controlled DSP, customized firmware and improved EMI (electromagnetic interference) filtering. We continue to attempt to differentiate all of our products from commodity-type products by enhancing, modifying and customizing our existing product portfolio, using our engineering integrating laboratory located in California.

 

Competition

 

The power system solutions industry is highly fragmented and characterized by intense competition. Our competition includes hundreds of companies located throughout the world, some of which have advantages over us in terms of labor and component costs, and some of which may offer products superior or comparable in quality to ours. Many of our competitors, including Bel Fuse, Artesyn Embedded Technologies, TDK-Lambda, Delta Electronics, Murata and Mean-Well Power Supplies, have substantially greater fiscal and marketing resources and geographic presence than we do. If we are successful in increasing our revenues, competitors may notice and increase competition efforts with our customers. We also face competition from current and prospective customers who may decide to internally design and manufacture power supplies needed for their products.  Furthermore, certain larger OEMs tend to contract only with larger power supply manufacturers.

 

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We anticipate in the current economic situation, that additional competitors may enter into strategic alliances or even acquisitions. Competition could thus become more problematic if consolidation trends in the electronics industry continue and some of the OEMs to which we sell our products are acquired by larger OEMs. To remain competitive, we must continue to compete favorably on the basis of value by providing reliable manufacturing, offering customer-driven engineering services including custom design and manufacturing, continuously improving quality and reliability levels, and offering flexible and reliable delivery schedules.

 

We believe that our power system solutions and advanced technology is superior to our competitors’ power supplies mainly because they use the latest power technology processing and controls which make these power supplies highly customized and efficient. The power-to-volume ratio, makes our power solutions more compact compared to what is offered by our competitors and is suitable in custom infrastructures to meet our customers’ requirements.

 

Another advantage of our power system solutions product line is based on the “Flexible” series that employs adjustable power range and a selectable number of output product design platforms. We believe we have a competitive position with our targeted customers that need a high-quality, compact product, which can be readily modified to meet the customer’s unique requirements. We have designed the base model power system platform so that it can be quickly and economically modified and adapted to the specific power needs of any hosting platform or OEM. This “flexibility” approach has allowed us to provide samples of modified power systems to OEM customers only a few days after initial consultation, an important capability given the emphasis placed by OEMs on “time to market.” It also results in very low non-recurring engineering (“ NRE ”) expenses. Because of reduced NRE expenses, we do not generally charge our OEM customers for NRE related to tailoring a power system to a customer’s specific requirements. We believe this gives us an advantage over our competitors, many of which charge their customers for NRE expenses.

 

The markets in which Microphase operates is also highly competitive and sensitive to technological advances. Many of Microphase’s competitors are larger than it is and maintain higher levels of expenditures for research and development. Principal competitive factors in Microphase’s markets are product quality and reliability; technological capabilities; service; past performance; ability to develop and implement complex, integrated solutions; ability to meet delivery schedules; the effectiveness of third-party sales channels in international markets; and cost-effectiveness.

 

In the RF Communications market, principal competitors for filter components products include K& L Microwave, a Dover company located in Salisbury, MD; RS Microwave, a privately held company headquartered in Butler, NJ; Lorch Microwave of Salisbury, MD, a member of the Smith Group, a global technology company listed on the London Stock Exchange; and Delta Diversified Products, a private company based in Arizona.

 

In the Video amplifier segment, principal competitors for Detector Log Video Amplifier Sensor products include American Microwave Corporation, a privately held company headquartered in Frederick, MD; Akon Inc., a privately held company based in San Jose, CA; Planar Monolithics Industries, a privately held company based in Frederick, MD; L-3 Narda-Miteq, a subsidiary of L-3 Communications Inc., a publicly traded company based in New York, NY; and Signal Technology, a subsidiary of Crane Co., a publicly traded company based in Stamford, CT.

 

Raw Materials

 

The raw materials for power supplies principally consist of electronic components. These raw materials are available from a variety of sources, and thus we are not dependent on any one supplier.  We generally allow our subcontractors to purchase components based on orders received or forecasts to minimize our risk of unusable inventory. To the extent necessary, we may allow them to procure materials prior to orders received to obtain shorter lead times and to achieve quantity discounts following a risk assessment.  In addition, we have decided to directly procure certain long lead-time electronic components in an effort to reduce our lead-time.

 

Many raw material vendors have reduced capacities, closed production lines and, in some cases, discontinued operations. As a result, some materials are no longer available to support some of our products requiring us to search for cross materials or, in certain circumstances, redesign some of our products to conform to currently available materials.

 

Intellectual Property

 

We rely upon a combination of trade secrets, industry expertise, confidential procedures, and contractual provisions to protect our intellectual property. We believe that because our products are continually updated and revised, obtaining patents would be costly and not beneficial. However, in the future, as we continue to develop unique core technology, we may seek to obtain patents for some of the core technology.  On July 10, 2012, our trademark, “DP Digital Power Flexible Power” was registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

 

In conjunction with our majority acquisition of Microphase, we concluded that because of the industry recognition of the Microphase trademark and trade name, which has been around for nearly 60 years, the tradename and trademark represented a significant intellectual property asset.

 

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Research and Development

 

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, we spent approximately $1,430,538 and $1,119,745, respectively, on research and development.

 

Employees

 

As of December 31, 2018, we had 248 employees located in the United States, the United Kingdom and Israel, of whom 73 were engaged in engineering and product development, 10 in sales and marketing, 134 in general operations and 31 in general administration and finance. All but 3 of these employees are employed on a full-time basis. None of our employees is currently represented by a trade union. We consider our relations with our employees to be good.

 

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

 

An investment in our common stock involves significant risks. You should carefully consider the following risks and all other information set forth in this Annual Report before deciding to invest in our common stock. If any of the events or developments described below occurs, our business, financial condition and results of operations may suffer. In that case, the value of our common stock may decline and you could lose all or part of your investment.

 

You should consider each of the following risk factors and any other information set forth in this Annual Report and the other reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the Company’s financial statements and related notes, in evaluating the Company’s business and prospects. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones that impact on the Company’s operations and business. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to the Company, or that the Company currently considers immaterial, may also impair its business or operations. If any of the following risks actually occurs, the Company’s business and financial condition, results or prospects could be harmed. Please also read carefully the section “Forward-Looking Statements” at the beginning of this Annual Report.

 

Risks Related to Our Company

 

We have historically incurred significant losses and our financial situation creates doubt whether we will continue as a going concern .

 

We have historically experienced operating and net losses and anticipate continuing to experience such losses in the future. For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had an operating loss of $19,605,456 and $5,983,045 and net losses of $32,982,201 and $10,895,049, respectively. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had a working capital deficiency of $18,445,302 and $2,234,695, respectively. There are no assurances that we will be able to achieve a level of revenues adequate to generate sufficient cash flow from operations or obtain additional financing through private placements, public offerings and/or bank financing necessary to support our working capital requirements. To the extent that funds generated from any private placements, public offerings and/or bank financing are insufficient, we will have to raise additional working capital. No assurance can be given that additional financing will be available, or if available, will be on acceptable terms. These conditions raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. If adequate working capital is not available we may be forced to discontinue operations, which would cause investors to lose their entire investment.

 

We expect to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future and need to raise additional capital to continue business development initiatives and to support our working capital requirements. For example, in March 2017, we were awarded a 3-year, $50 million purchase order by MTIX Ltd. (“MTIX”) to manufacture, install and service the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“MLSE”) plasma-laser system. We believe that the MLSE purchase order will be a source of revenue and generate significant cash flows for us. However, if we are unable to raise additional capital, we may be required to curtail operations and take additional measures to reduce costs, including reducing our workforce, eliminating outside consultants and reducing legal fees in order to conserve cash in amounts sufficient to sustain operations and meet our obligations. As a result of these financing uncertainties, during the year ended December 31, 2018, we recognized that our dependence on ongoing capital requirements to fund our operations raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our ongoing capital requirements have only increased since then, meaning that substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern remains and will likely do so for the foreseeable future.

 

We will need to raise additional capital to fund our operations in furtherance of our business plan.

 

Until we are profitable, we will need to quickly raise additional capital in order to fund our operations in furtherance of our business plan. The proposed financing may include shares of common stock, shares of preferred stock, warrants to purchase shares of common stock or preferred stock, debt securities, units consisting of the foregoing securities, equity investments from strategic development partners or some combination of each. Any additional equity financings may be financially dilutive to, and will be dilutive from an ownership perspective to our stockholders, and such dilution may be significant based upon the size of such financing. Additionally, we cannot assure that such funding will be available on a timely basis, in needed quantities, or on terms favorable to us, if at all.

 

Our limited operating history makes it difficult to evaluate our future business prospects and to make decisions based on of our historical performance .

 

Although our executive officers have been engaged in the industries in which we operate for varying degrees of time, we did not begin operations of our current business until recently. We have a very limited operating history in our current form, which makes it difficult to evaluate our business on the basis of historical operations. As a consequence, it is difficult, if not impossible, to forecast our future results based upon our historical data. Reliance on our historical results may not be representative of the results we will achieve, and for certain areas in which we operate, principally those unrelated to defense contracting, will not be indicative at all. Because of the uncertainties related to our lack of historical operations, we may be hindered in our ability to anticipate and timely adapt to increases or decreases in sales, product costs or expenses. If we make poor budgetary decisions as a result of unreliable historical data, we could be less profitable or incur losses, which may result in a decline in our stock price.

 

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We have an evolving business model, which increases the complexity of our business.

 

Our business model has evolved in the past and continues to do so. In prior years we have added additional types of services and product offerings and in some cases we have modified or discontinued those offerings. We intend to continue to try to offer additional types of products or services, and we do not know whether any of them will be successful. From time to time we have also modified aspects of our business model relating to our product mix. We do not know whether these or any other modifications will be successful. The additions and modifications to our business have increased the complexity of our business and placed significant strain on our management, personnel, operations, systems, technical performance, financial resources, and internal financial control and reporting functions. Future additions to or modifications of our business are likely to have similar effects. Further, any new business or website we launch that is not favorably received by the market could damage our reputation or our brand. The occurrence of any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

We are a holding company whose subsidiaries are given certain degree of independence and our failure to integrate our subsidiaries may adversely affect our financial condition .

 

We have given our subsidiary companies and their executives a certain degree of independence in decision-making. On the one hand, this independence may increase the sense of ownership at all levels, on the other hand it has also increased the difficulty of the integration of operation and management, which has resulted in increased difficulty of management integration. In the event we are not able to successfully manage our subsidiaries this will result in operating difficulties and have a negative impact on our business.

 

Our independent auditors have expressed doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. If we do not continue as a going concern, investors will lose their entire investment .

 

In its report on our financial statements included in this Annual Report, our independent auditors have expressed doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our ability to continue as a going concern is an issue raised as a result of ongoing operating losses and a lack of financing commitments then in place to meet expected cash requirements. Our ability to continue as a going concern is subject to our ability to generate a profit and/or obtain necessary funding from outside sources, including obtaining additional funding from the sale of our securities, increasing sales or obtaining loans and grants from various financial institutions where possible. If we do not continue as a going concern, investors will lose their entire investment.

 

Our inability to successfully integrate new acquisitions could adversely affect our combined business; our operations are widely disbursed.

 

Our growth strategy through acquisitions is fraught with risk. On June 2, 2017, we acquired a majority interest in Microphase and on May 23, 2018 we acquired Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“ Enertec ”). Our strategy and business plan is dependent on our ability to successfully integrate Microphase’s, Enertec’s and our other acquisition’s operations. In addition, while we are based in Newport Beach, CA, Microphase’s operations are located in Shelton, Connecticut, Enertec’s operations are located in Karmiel, Israel and DP Limited’s (doing business as Gresham Power Electronics) operations are located in Salisbury, England. These distant locations and others that we may become involved with in the future will stretch our resources and management time. Further, failure to quickly and adequately integrate all of these operations and personnel could adversely affect our combined business and our ability to achieve our objectives and strategy. No assurance can be given that we will realize synergies in the areas we currently operate.

 

If we make any additional acquisitions, they may disrupt or have a negative impact on our business.

 

We have plans to eventually make additional acquisitions beyond Microphase and Enertec. Whenever we make acquisitions, we could have difficulty integrating the acquired companies’ personnel and operations with our own. In addition, the key personnel of the acquired business may not be willing to work for us. We cannot predict the effect expansion may have on our core business. Regardless of whether we are successful in making an acquisition, the negotiations could disrupt our ongoing business, distract our management and employees and increase our expenses. In addition to the risks described above, acquisitions are accompanied by a number of inherent risks, including, without limitation, the following:

 

  · difficulty of integrating acquired products, services or operations;
  · potential disruption of the ongoing businesses and distraction of our management and the management of acquired companies;
  · difficulty of incorporating acquired rights or products into our existing business;
  · difficulties in disposing of the excess or idle facilities of an acquired company or business and expenses in maintaining such facilities;
  · difficulties in maintaining uniform standards, controls, procedures and policies;

 

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  · potential impairment of relationships with employees and customers as a result of any integration of new management personnel;
  · potential inability or failure to achieve additional sales and enhance our customer base through cross-marketing of the products to new and existing customers;
  · effect of any government regulations which relate to the business acquired; and
  · potential unknown liabilities associated with acquired businesses or product lines, or the need to spend significant amounts to retool, reposition or modify the marketing and sales of acquired products or the defense of any litigation, whether or not successful, resulting from actions of the acquired company prior to our acquisition. 

  

Our business could be severely impaired if and to the extent that we are unable to succeed in addressing any of these risks or other problems encountered in connection with these acquisitions, many of which cannot be presently identified, these risks and problems could disrupt our ongoing business, distract our management and employees, increase our expenses and adversely affect our results of operations.

 

No assurance of successful expansion of operations.

 

Our significant increase in the scope and the scale of our operations, including the hiring of additional personnel, has resulted in significantly higher operating expenses. We anticipate that our operating expenses will continue to increase. Expansion of our operations may also make significant demands on our management, finances and other resources. Our ability to manage the anticipated future growth, should it occur, will depend upon a significant expansion of our accounting and other internal management systems and the implementation and subsequent improvement of a variety of systems, procedures and controls. We cannot assure that significant problems in these areas will not occur. Failure to expand these areas and implement and improve such systems, procedures and controls in an efficient manner at a pace consistent with our business could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We cannot assure that attempts to expand our marketing, sales, manufacturing and customer support efforts will succeed or generate additional sales or profits in any future period. As a result of the expansion of our operations and the anticipated increase in our operating expenses, along with the difficulty in forecasting revenue levels, we expect to continue to experience significant fluctuations in its results of operations.

 

We may be unable to successfully expand our production capacity, which could result in material delays, quality issues, increased costs and loss of business opportunities, which may negatively impact our product margins and profitability .

 

Part of our future growth strategy is to increase our production capacity to meet increasing demand for our goods. Assuming we obtain sufficient funding to increase our production capacity, any projects to increase such capacity may not be constructed on the anticipated timetable or within budget. We may also experience quality control issues as we implement any production upgrades. Any material delay in completing these projects, or any substantial cost increases or quality issues in connection with these projects could materially delay our ability to bring our products to market and adversely affect our business, reduce our revenue, income and available cash, all of which could harm our financial condition.

 

If we fail to establish and maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to report our financial results accurately or prevent fraud. Any inability to report and file our financial results accurately and timely could harm our reputation and adversely impact the trading price of our common stock. 

 

Effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and prevent fraud. If we cannot provide reliable financial reports or prevent fraud, we may not be able to manage our business as effectively as we would if an effective control environment existed, and our business and reputation with investors may be harmed. As a result, our small size and any current internal control deficiencies may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and access to capital. We have also experienced complications reporting as a result of material weaknesses which resulted in the restatement of our Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2017, which was filed with the SEC on August 21, 2017, and amended on November 14, 2017. We have carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the most recent period covered by this report. Based on the foregoing, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at the reasonable assurance level due to the material weaknesses described below.

 

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, within the meaning of Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“ PCAOB ”) Audit Standard No. 5, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Management has identified the following material weaknesses which have caused management to conclude that as of December 31, 2018 our internal controls over financial reporting (“ ICFR ”) were not effective at the reasonable assurance level:

 

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  1. We do not have sufficient resources in our accounting function, which restricts our ability to gather, analyze and properly review information related to financial reporting in a timely manner. In addition, due to our size and nature, segregation of all conflicting duties may not always be possible and may not be economically feasible. However, to the extent possible, the initiation of transactions, the custody of assets and the recording of transactions should be performed by separate individuals. Management evaluated the impact of our failure to have segregation of duties during our assessment of our disclosure controls and procedures and concluded that the control deficiency that resulted represented a material weakness.

 

  2. We have inadequate controls to ensure that information necessary to properly record transactions is adequately communicated on a timely basis from non-financial personnel to those responsible for financial reporting. Management evaluated the impact of the lack of timely communication between non–financial and financial personnel on our assessment of our reporting controls and procedures and has concluded that the control deficiency represented a material weakness.

 

Planned Remediation

 

Management, in coordination with the input, oversight and support of our Board of Directors, has identified the measures below to strengthen our control environment and internal control over financial reporting.

 

During January 2018 we hired a new Chief Financial Officer and engaged the services of a financial accounting advisory firm. During September 2018, we hired a Chief Accounting Officer and in January 2019, we hired a Senior Vice President of Finance. We have tasked these individuals with expanding and monitoring the Company’s internal controls, to provide an additional level of review of complex financial issues and to assist with financial reporting. Further, as we continue to expand our internal accounting department, the Chairman of the Audit Committee shall perform the following:

 

· assists with documentation and implementation of policies and procedures and monitoring of controls,

 

· reviews all anticipated transactions that are not considered in the ordinary course of business to assist in the early identification of accounting issues and ensure that appropriate disclosures are made in the Company’s financial statements

 

We are currently working to improve and simplify our internal processes and implement enhanced controls, as discussed above, to address the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and to remedy the ineffectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures.

 

If our accounting controls and procedures are circumvented or otherwise fail to achieve their intended purposes, our business could be seriously harmed.

 

We evaluate our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of each fiscal quarter, and are annually reviewing and evaluating our internal control over financial reporting in order to comply with the Commission’s rules relating to internal control over financial reporting adopted pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. If we fail to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting or our management does not timely assess the adequacy of such internal control, we may be subject to regulatory sanctions, and our reputation may decline.

 

We face significant competition, including changes in pricing.

 

The markets for our products are both competitive and price sensitive. Many competitors have significant financial, operations, sales and marketing resources, plus experience in research and development, and compete with us by offering lower prices. Competitors could develop new technologies that compete with our products to achieve a lower unit price. If a competitor develops lower cost superior technology or cost-effective alternatives to our products and services, our business could be seriously harmed.

 

The markets for some of our products are also subject to specific competitive risks because these markets are highly price competitive. Our competitors have competed in the past by lowering prices on certain products. If they do so again, we may be forced to respond by lowering our prices. This would reduce sales revenues and increase losses. Failure to anticipate and respond to price competition may also impact sales and aggravate losses.

 

Many of our competitors are larger and have greater financial and other resources than we do.

 

Our products compete and will compete with similar if not identical products produced by our competitors. These competitive products could be marketed by well-established, successful companies that possess greater financial, marketing, distribution personnel, and other resources than we do. Using said resources, these companies can implement extensive advertising and promotional campaigns, both generally and in response to specific marketing efforts by competitors. They can introduce new products to new markets more rapidly. In certain instances, competitors with greater financial resources may be able to enter a market in direct competition with us, offering attractive marketing tools to encourage the sale of products that compete with our products or present cost features that consumers may find attractive. 

 

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Our growth strategy is subject to a significant degree of risk.

 

Our growth strategy through acquisitions involves a significant degree of risk. Some of the companies that we have identified as acquisition targets or make a significant investment in may not have a developed business or are experiencing inefficiencies and incur losses. Therefore, we may lose our investment in the event that these companies’ businesses do not develop as planned or that we are unable to achieve the cost efficiencies or reduction of losses as anticipated.

 

Further, in order to implement our growth plan, we have hired additional staff and consultants to review potential investments and implement our plan. As a result, we have substantially increased our infrastructure and costs. If we fail to quickly find new companies that provide revenue to offset our costs, we will continue to experience losses. No assurance can be given that our product development and investments will produce sufficient revenues to offset these increases in expenditures. 

 

Our business and operations are growing rapidly. If we fail to effectively manage our growth, our business and operating results could be harmed .

 

We have experienced, and may continue to experience, rapid growth in our operations. This has placed, and may continue to place, significant demands on our management, operational and financial infrastructure. If we do not manage our growth effectively, the quality of our products and services could suffer, which could negatively affect our operating results. To effectively manage our growth, we must continue to improve our operational, financial and management controls and reporting systems and procedures. These systems improvements may require significant capital expenditures and management resources. Failure to implement these improvements could hurt our ability to manage our growth and our financial position.

 

Philou has certain rights to maintain its ownership interest in us

 

In connection with entering into a Series B Preferred Stock purchase agreement with Philou Ventures, LLC (“Philou”), we granted the right to Philou to participate in future offerings under substantially the same term of such offerings in order to allow Philou to maintain its ownership interest. If exercised by Philou, this contractual right granted to it has the effect of allowing Philou to maintain its interest in us and dilute existing stockholders’ ownership interests.

 

We are heavily dependent on our senior management, and a loss of a member of our senior management team could cause our stock price to suffer .

 

If we lose the services of Milton C. Ault III, our Chief Executive Officer, William B. Horne, our Chief Financial Officer, Amos Kohn, our President and the Chief Executive Officer of Coolisys, one of our principal subsidiaries and/or certain key employees, we may not be able to find appropriate replacements on a timely basis, and our business could be adversely affected. Our existing operations and continued future development depend to a significant extent upon the performance and active participation of these individuals and certain key employees. Although we have entered into employment agreements with Messrs. Ault, Horne and Kohn, and we may enter into employment agreements with additional key employees in the future, we cannot guarantee that we will be successful in retaining the services of these individuals. If we were to lose any of these individuals, we may not be able to find appropriate replacements on a timely basis and our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

 

We rely on highly skilled personnel and the continuing efforts of our executive officers and, if we are unable to retain, motivate or hire qualified personnel, our business may be severely disrupted.

 

Our performance largely depends on the talents, knowledge, skills, know-how and efforts of highly skilled individuals and in particular, the expertise held by our Chief Executive Officer, Milton C. Ault III. His absence, were it to occur, would materially and adversely impact development and implementation of our projects and businesses. Our future success depends on our continuing ability to identify, hire, develop, motivate and retain highly skilled personnel for all areas of our organization. Our continued ability to compete effectively depends on our ability to attract, among others, new technology developers and to retain and motivate our existing contractors. If one or more of our executive officers are unable or unwilling to continue in their present positions, we may not be able to replace them readily, if at all. Therefore, our business may be severely disrupted, and we may incur additional expenses to recruit and retain new officers. In addition, if any of our executives joins a competitor or forms a competing company, we may lose some customers.

 

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Our operating results may vary from quarter to quarter.

 

Our operating results have in the past been subject to quarter-to-quarter fluctuations, and we expect that these fluctuations will continue, and may increase in magnitude, in future periods. Demand for our products is driven by many factors, including the availability of funding for our products in our customers’ capital budgets. There is a trend for some of our customers to place large orders near the end of a quarter or fiscal year, in part to spend remaining available capital budget funds. Seasonal fluctuations in customer demand for our products driven by budgetary and other concerns can create corresponding fluctuations in period-to-period revenues, and we therefore cannot assure you that our results in one period are necessarily indicative of our revenues in any future period. In addition, the number and timing of large individual sales and the ability to obtain acceptances of those sales, where applicable, have been difficult for us to predict, and large individual sales have, in some cases, occurred in quarters subsequent to those we anticipated, or have not occurred at all. The loss or deferral of one or more significant sales in a quarter could harm our operating results for such quarter. It is possible that, in some quarters, our operating results will be below the expectations of public market analysts or investors. In such events, or in the event adverse conditions prevail, the market price of our common stock may decline significantly.

 

We may be classified as an inadvertent investment company.

 

We are not engaged in the business of investing, reinvesting, or trading in securities, and we do not hold ourselves out as being engaged in those activities. Under the Investment Company Act, however, a company may be deemed an investment company under section 3(a)(1)(C) of the Investment Company Act if the value of its investment securities is more than 40% of its total assets (exclusive of government securities and cash items) on a consolidated basis.

 

We have commenced digital asset mining, the output of which is cryptocurrencies, which the Commission has indicated it deems a security. In the event that the digital assets held by us exceed 40% of our total assets, exclusive of cash, we inadvertently become an investment company. An inadvertent investment company can avoid being classified as an investment company if it can rely on one of the exclusions under the Investment Company Act. One such exclusion, Rule 3a-2 under the Investment Company Act, allows an inadvertent investment company a grace period of one year from the earlier of (a) the date on which an issuer owns securities and/or cash having a value exceeding 50% of the issuer’s total assets on either a consolidated or unconsolidated basis and (b) the date on which an issuer owns or proposes to acquire investment securities having a value exceeding 40% of the value of such issuer’s total assets (exclusive of government securities and cash items) on an unconsolidated basis. We are putting in place policies that we expect will work to keep the investment securities held by us at less than 40% of our total assets, which may include acquiring assets with our cash, liquidating our investment securities or seeking a no-action letter from the Commission if we are unable to acquire sufficient assets or liquidate sufficient investment securities in a timely manner.

 

As Rule 3a-2 is available to a company no more than once every three years, and assuming no other exclusion were available to us, we would have to keep within the 40% limit for at least three years after we cease being an inadvertent investment company. This may limit our ability to make certain investments or enter into joint ventures that could otherwise have a positive impact on our earnings. In any event, we do not intend to become an investment company engaged in the business of investing and trading securities.

 

Classification as an investment company under the Investment Company Act requires registration with the Commission. If an investment company fails to register, it would have to stop doing almost all business, and its contracts would become voidable. Registration is time consuming and restrictive and would require a restructuring of our operations, and we would be very constrained in the kind of business we could do as a registered investment company. Further, we would become subject to substantial regulation concerning management, operations, transactions with affiliated persons and portfolio composition, and would need to file reports under the Investment Company Act regime. The cost of such compliance would result in our incurring substantial additional expenses, and the failure to register if required would have a materially adverse impact to conduct our operations.

 

We will not be able to successfully execute our business strategy if we are deemed to be an investment company under the Investment Company Act.

 

U.S. companies that have more than 100 stockholders or are publicly traded in the U.S. and are, or hold themselves out as being, engaged primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading in securities are subject to regulation under the Investment Company Act.  Unless a substantial part of our assets consists of, and a substantial part of our income is derived from, interests in majority-owned subsidiaries and companies that we primarily control, we may be required to register and become subject to regulation under the Investment Company Act.  If bitcoin and other virtual currencies were to be deemed securities for purposes of the Investment Company Act, or if we were deemed to own but not operate one or more of our other subsidiaries, we would have difficulty avoiding classification and regulation as an investment company.

 

If we were deemed to be, and were required to register as, an investment company, we would be forced to comply with substantive requirements under the Investment Company Act, including limitations on our ability to borrow, limitations on our capital structure; restrictions on acquisitions of interests in associated companies, prohibitions on transactions with affiliates, restrictions on specific investments, and compliance with reporting, record keeping, voting, proxy disclosure and other rules and regulations.  If we were forced to comply with the rules and regulations of the Investment Company Act, our operations would significantly change, and we would be prevented from successfully executing our business strategy.  To avoid regulation under the Investment Company Act and related rules promulgated by the Commission, we could need to sell bitcoin and other assets which we would otherwise want to retain and could be unable to sell assets which we would otherwise want to sell.  In addition, we could be forced to acquire additional, or retain existing, income-generating or loss-generating assets which we would not otherwise have acquired or retained and could need to forgo opportunities to acquire bitcoin and other assets that would benefit our business.  If we were forced to sell, buy or retain assets in this manner, we could be prevented from successfully executing our business strategy.

 

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Securitization of our assets subjects us to various risks .

 

We may securitize assets to generate cash for funding new investments. We refer to the term securitize to describe a form of leverage under which a company (sometimes referred to as an “originator” or “sponsor”) transfers income producing assets to a single-purpose, bankruptcy-remote subsidiary (also referred to as a “special purpose entity” or “SPE”), which is established solely for the purpose of holding such assets and entering into a structured finance transaction. The SPE would then issue notes secured by such assets. The special purpose entity may issue the notes in the capital markets either publicly or privately to a variety of investors, including banks, non-bank financial institutions and other investors. There may be a single class of notes or multiple classes of notes, the most senior of which carries less credit risk and the most junior of which may carry substantially the same credit risk as the equity of the SPE.

 

An important aspect of most debt securitization transactions is that the sale and/or contribution of assets into the SPE be considered a true sale and/or contribution for accounting purposes and that a reviewing court would not consolidate the SPE with the operations of the originator in the event of the originator's bankruptcy based on equitable principles. Viewed as a whole, a debt securitization seeks to lower risk to the note purchasers by isolating the assets collateralizing the securitization in an SPE that is not subject to the credit and bankruptcy risks of the originator. As a result of this perceived reduction of risk, debt securitization transactions frequently achieve lower overall leverage costs for originators as compared to traditional secured lending transactions.

 

In accordance with the above description, to securitize loans, we may create a wholly owned subsidiary and contribute a pool of our assets to such subsidiary. The SPE may be funded with, among other things, whole loans or interests from other pools and such loans may or may not be rated. The SPE would then sell its notes to purchasers whom we would expect to be willing to accept a lower interest rate and the absence of any recourse against us to invest in a pool of income producing assets to which none of our creditors would have access. We would retain all or a portion of the equity in the SPE. An inability to successfully securitize portions of our portfolio or otherwise leverage our portfolio through secured and unsecured borrowings could limit our ability to grow our business and fully execute our business strategy, and could decrease our earnings, if any. However, the successful securitization of portions of our portfolio exposes us to a risk of loss for the equity we retain in the SPE and might expose us to greater risk on our remaining portfolio because the assets we retain may tend to be those that are riskier and more likely to generate losses. A successful securitization may also impose financial and operating covenants that restrict our business activities and may include limitations that could hinder our ability to finance additional loans and investments. The Investment Company Act may also impose restrictions on the structure of any securitizations.

 

Interests we hold in the SPE, if any, will be subordinated to the other interests issued by the SPE. As such, we will only receive cash distributions on such interests if the SPE has made all cash interest and other required payments on all other interests it has issued. In addition, our subordinated interests will likely be unsecured and rank behind all of the secured creditors, known or unknown, of the SPE, including the holders of the senior interests it has issued. Consequently, to the extent that the value of the SPE's portfolio of assets has been reduced as a result of conditions in the credit markets, or as a result of defaults, the value of the subordinated interests we retain would be reduced. Securitization imposes on us the same risks as borrowing except that our risk in a securitization is limited to the amount of subordinated interests we retain, whereas in a borrowing or debt issuance by us directly we would be at risk for the entire amount of the borrowing or debt issuance.

 

We may also engage in transactions utilizing SPEs and securitization techniques where the assets sold or contributed to the SPE remain on our balance sheet for accounting purposes. If, for example, we sell the assets to the SPE with recourse or provide a guarantee or other credit support to the SPE, its assets will remain on our balance sheet. Consolidation would also generally result if we, in consultation with the SEC, determine that consolidation would result in a more accurate reflection of our assets, liabilities and results of operations. In these structures, the risks will be essentially the same as in other securitization transactions but the assets will remain our assets for purposes of the limitations described above on investing in assets that are not qualifying assets and the leverage incurred by the SPE will be treated as borrowings incurred by us for purposes of our limitation on the issuance of senior securities.

 

We may not be able to utilize our net operating loss carry forwards.

 

At December 31, 2018, we had Federal net operating loss carry forwards (“NOLs”) for income tax purposes of approximately $43,051,999, expiring through 2037. However, we do not know if or when we will have any earnings and capital gains against which we could apply these carry forwards.  Furthermore, as a result of changes in the ownership of our common stock, our ability to use our federal NOLs will be limited under Internal Revenue Code Section 382.  State NOLs are subject to similar limitations in many cases.  As a result, our substantial NOLs may not have any value to us.

 

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Changes in the U.S. tax and other laws and regulations may adversely affect our business.

 

The U.S. government may revise tax laws, regulations or official interpretations in ways that could have a significant adverse effect on our business, including modifications that could reduce the profits that we can effectively realize from our international operations, or that could require costly changes to those operations, or the way in which they are structured.  For example, the effective tax rates for most U.S. companies reflect the fact that income earned and reinvested outside the U.S. is generally taxed at local rates, which may be much lower than U.S. tax rates.  If we expand abroad and there are changes in tax laws, regulations or interpretations that significantly increase the tax rates on non-U.S. income, our effective tax rate could increase and our profits could be reduced.  If such increases resulted from our status as a U.S. company, those changes could place us at a disadvantage to our non-U.S. competitors if those competitors remain subject to lower local tax rates.

 

Recently enacted U.S. tax reform legislation known colloquially as the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,” among other things, makes significant changes to the rules applicable to the taxation of corporations, such as changing the corporate tax rate to a flat 21% rate, modifying the rules regarding limitations on certain deductions for executive compensation, introducing a capital investment deduction in certain circumstances, placing certain limitations on the interest deduction, modifying the rules regarding the usability of certain net operating losses, implementing a minimum tax on the “global intangible low-taxed income” of a “United States stockholder” of a “controlled foreign corporation,” modifying certain rules applicable to United States stockholders of controlled foreign corporations, imposing a deemed repatriation tax on certain earnings and adding certain anti-base erosion rules.  We are currently in the process of analyzing the effects of this new legislation on us and at this time the ultimate outcome of the new legislation on our business and financial condition is uncertain.  It is possible that the application of these new rules may have a material and adverse impact on our operating results, cash flows and financial condition.

 

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry - Overview

 

Technology changes rapidly in our business, and if we fail to anticipate new technologies, the quality, timeliness and competitiveness of our products will suffer.

 

Rapid technology changes in our industry require us to anticipate, sometimes years in advance, which technologies and/or distribution platforms our products must take advantage of in order to make them competitive in the market at the time they are released. Therefore, we usually start our product development with a range of technical development goals that we hope to be able to achieve. We may not be able to achieve these goals, or our competition may be able to achieve them more quickly than we can. In either case, our products may be technologically inferior to competitive products, or less appealing to consumers, or both. If we cannot achieve our technology goals within the original development schedule of our products, then we may delay products until these technology goals can be achieved, which may delay or reduce revenue and increase our development expenses. Alternatively, we may increase the resources employed in research and development in an attempt to accelerate our development of new technologies, either to preserve our product launch schedule or to keep up with our competition, which would increase our development expenses and adversely affect our operations and financial condition.

 

We are dependent upon our ability, and our contract manufacturers’ ability, to timely procure electronic components.

 

Because of the global economy, many raw material vendors have reduced capacities, closed production lines and, in some cases, even discontinued their operations. As a result, there is a global shortage of certain electronic or mineral components, which may extend our production lead-time and our production costs. Some materials are no longer available to support some of our products, thereby requiring us to search for cross materials or, even worse, redesign some of our products to support currently-available materials. Such redesign efforts may require certain regulatory and safety agency re-submittals, which may cause further production delays. While we have initiated actions that we believe will limit our exposure to such problems, the dynamic business conditions in many of our markets may challenge the solutions that have been put in place, and issues may recur in the future.

 

In addition, some of our products are manufactured, assembled and tested by third party subcontractors and contract manufacturers located in Asia. While we have had relationships with many of these third parties in the past, we cannot predict how or whether these relationships will continue in the future. In addition, changes in management, financial viability, manufacturing demand or capacity, or other factors, at these third parties could hurt our ability to manufacture our products.

 

Our strategic focus on our custom power supply solution competencies and concurrent cost reduction plans may be ineffective or may limit our ability to compete.

 

As a result of our strategic focus on custom power supply solutions, we will continue to devote significant resources to developing and manufacturing custom power supply solutions for a large number of customers, where each product represents a uniquely tailored solution for a specific customer’s requirements. Failure to meet these customer product requirements or a failure to meet production schedules and/or product quality standards may put us at risk with one or more of these customers. Moreover, changes in market conditions and strategic changes at the direction of our customers may affect their decision to continue to purchase from us. The loss of one or more of our significant custom power supply solution customers could have a material adverse impact on our revenues, business or financial condition.

 

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We have also implemented a series of initiatives designed to increase efficiency and reduce costs. While we believe that these actions will reduce costs, they may not be sufficient to achieve the required operational efficiencies that will enable us to respond more quickly to changes in the market or result in the improvements in our business that we anticipate. In such event, we may be forced to take additional cost-reducing initiatives, including those involving our personnel, which may negatively impact quarterly earnings and profitability as we account for severance and other related costs. In addition, there is the risk that such measures could have long-term adverse effects on our business by reducing our pool of talent, decreasing or slowing improvements in our products or services, making it more difficult for us to respond to customers, limiting our ability to increase production quickly if and when the demand for our solutions increases and limiting our ability to hire and retain key personnel. These circumstances could cause our earnings to be lower than they otherwise might be.

 

We   depend upon a few major customers for a majority of our revenues, and the loss of any of these customers, or the substantial reduction in the quantity of products that they purchase from us, would significantly reduce our revenues and net income.

 

We currently depend upon a few major OEMs and other customers for a significant portion of our revenues. If our major OEM customers will reduce or cancel their orders scaling back some of their activities, our revenues and net income would be significantly reduced. Furthermore, diversions in the capital spending of certain of these customers to new network elements have and could continue to lead to their reduced demand for our products, which could, in turn, have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. If the financial condition of one or more of our major customers should deteriorate, or if they have difficulty acquiring investment capital due to any of these or other factors, a substantial decrease in our revenues would likely result. We are dependent on the electronic equipment industry, and accordingly will be affected by the impact on that industry of current economic conditions.

 

Substantially all of our existing customers are in the electronic equipment industry, and they manufacture products that are subject to rapid technological change, obsolescence, and large fluctuations in demand. This industry is further characterized by intense competition and volatility. The OEMs serving this industry are pressured for increased product performance and lower product prices. OEMs, in turn, make similar demands on their suppliers, such as us, for increased product performance and lower prices. Such demands may adversely affect our ability to successfully compete in certain markets or our ability to sustain our gross margins.

 

Our reliance on subcontract manufacturers to manufacture certain aspects of our products involves risks, including delays in product shipments and reduced control over product quality.

 

Since we do not own significant manufacturing facilities, we must rely on, and will continue to rely on, a limited number of subcontract manufacturers to manufacture our power supply products. Our reliance upon such subcontract manufacturers involves several risks, including reduced control over manufacturing costs, delivery times, reliability and quality of components, unfavorable currency exchange fluctuations, and continued inflationary pressures on many of the raw materials used in the manufacturing of our power supply products. If we were to encounter a shortage of key manufacturing components from limited sources of supply, or experience manufacturing delays caused by reduced manufacturing capacity, inability of our subcontract manufacturers to procure raw materials, the loss of key assembly subcontractors, difficulties associated with the transition to our new subcontract manufacturers or other factors, we could experience lost revenues, increased costs, and delays in, or cancellations or rescheduling of, orders or shipments, any of which would materially harm our business.

 

We outsource, and are dependent upon developer partners for, the development of some of our custom design products.

 

We made an operational decision to outsource some of our custom design products to numerous developer partners. This business structure will remain in place until the custom design volume justifies expanding our in house capabilities. Incomplete product designs that do not fully comply with the customer specifications and requirements might affect our ability to transition to a volume production stage of the custom designed product where the revenue goals are dependent on the high volume of custom product production. Furthermore, we rely on the design partners’ ability to provide high quality prototypes of the designed product for our customer approval as a critical stage to approve production.

 

We face intense industry competition, price erosion and product obsolescence, which, in turn, could reduce our profitability.

 

We operate in an industry that is generally characterized by intense competition. We believe that the principal bases of competition in our markets are breadth of product line, quality of products, stability, reliability and reputation of the provider, along with cost. Quantity discounts, price erosion, and rapid product obsolescence due to technological improvements are therefore common in our industry as competitors strive to retain or expand market share. Product obsolescence can lead to increases in unsaleable inventory that may need to be written off and, therefore, could reduce our profitability. Similarly, price erosion can reduce our profitability by decreasing our revenues and our gross margins. In fact, we have seen price erosion over the last several years on most of the products we sell, and we expect additional price erosion in the future.

 

Our future results are dependent on our ability to establish, maintain and expand our manufacturers’ representative OEM relationships and our other relationships.

 

We market and sell our products through domestic and international OEM relationships and other distribution channels, such as manufacturers’ representatives and distributors. Our future results are dependent on our ability to establish, maintain and expand our relationships with OEMs as well as with manufacturers’ representatives and distributors to sell our products. If, however, the third parties with whom we have entered into such OEM and other arrangements should fail to meet their contractual obligations, cease doing, or reduce the amount of their, business with us or otherwise fail to meet their own performance objectives, customer demand for our products could be adversely affected, which would have an adverse effect on our revenues.

 

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We may not be able to procure necessary key components for our products, or we may purchase too much inventory or the wrong inventory.

 

The power supply industry, and the electronics industry as a whole, can be subject to business cycles. During periods of growth and high demand for our products, we may not have adequate supplies of inventory on hand to satisfy our customers' needs. Furthermore, during these periods of growth, our suppliers may also experience high demand and, therefore, may not have adequate levels of the components and other materials that we require to build products so that we can meet our customers' needs. Our inability to secure sufficient components to build products for our customers could negatively impact our sales and operating results. We may choose to mitigate this risk by increasing the levels of inventory for certain key components. Increased inventory levels can increase the potential risk for excess and obsolescence should our forecasts fail to materialize or if there are negative factors impacting our customers’ end markets. If we purchase too much inventory or the wrong inventory, we may have to record additional inventory reserves or write-off the inventory, which could have a material adverse effect on our gross margins and on our results of operations.

 

Although we depend on sales of our legacy products for a meaningful portion of our revenues, these products are mature and their sales will decline.

 

A relatively large portion of our sales have historically been attributable to our legacy products. We expect that these products may continue to account for a meaningful percentage of our revenues for the foreseeable future. However, these sales are declining. Although we are unable to predict future prices for our legacy products, we expect that prices for these products will continue to be subject to significant downward pressure in certain markets for the reasons described above. Accordingly, our ability to maintain or increase revenues will be dependent on our ability to expand our customer base, to increase unit sales volumes of these products and to successfully, develop, introduce and sell new products such as custom design and value-added products. We cannot assure you that we will be able to expand our customer base, increase unit sales volumes of existing products or develop, introduce and/or sell new products.

 

Failure of our information technology infrastructure to operate effectively could adversely affect our business.

 

We depend heavily on information technology infrastructure to achieve our business objectives. If a problem occurs that impairs this infrastructure, the resulting disruption could impede our ability to record or process orders, manufacture and ship in a timely manner, or otherwise carry on business in the normal course. Any such events could cause us to lose customers or revenue and could require us to incur significant expense to remediate.

   

We are subject to certain governmental regulatory restrictions relating to our international sales.

 

Some of our products are subject to International Traffic In Arms Regulation (“ ITAR ”), which are interpreted, enforced and administered by the U.S. Department of State. ITAR regulation controls not only the export, import and trade of certain products specifically designed, modified, configured or adapted for military systems, but also the export of related technical data and defense services as well as foreign production. Any delays in obtaining the required export, import or trade licenses for products subject to ITAR regulation and rules could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and/or operating results. In addition, changes in United States export and import laws that require us to obtain additional export and import licenses or delays in obtaining export or import licenses currently being sought could cause significant shipment delays and, if such delays are too great, could result in the cancellation of orders. Any future restrictions or charges imposed by the United States or any other country on our international sales or foreign subsidiary could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and/or operating results. In addition, from time to time, we have entered into contracts with the Israeli Ministry of Defense which were governed by the U.S. Foreign Military Financing program (“ FMF ”). Any such future sales would be subject to these regulations. Failure to comply with ITAR or FMF rules could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, and/or operating results.

  

We depend on international operations for a substantial majority of our components and products.

 

We purchase a substantial majority of our components from foreign manufacturers and have a substantial majority of our commercial products assembled, packaged, and tested by subcontractors located outside the United States. These activities are subject to the uncertainties associated with international business operations, including trade barriers and other restrictions, changes in trade policies, governmental regulations, currency exchange fluctuations, reduced protection for intellectual property, war and other military activities, terrorism, changes in social, political, or economic conditions, and other disruptions or delays in production or shipments, any of which could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and/or operating results.

 

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We depend on international sales for a portion of our revenues.

 

Sales to customers outside of North America accounted for 29.9% and 34.8% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, and we expect that international sales will continue to represent a material portion of our total revenues. International sales are subject to the risks of international business operations as described above, as well as generally longer payment cycles, greater difficulty collecting accounts receivable, and currency restrictions. In addition, Gresham, our wholly-owned subsidiary in the United Kingdom, supports our European and other international customers, distributors, and sales representatives, and therefore is also subject to local regulation. International sales are also subject to the export laws and regulations of the United States and other countries.

 

Our sales and profitability may be affected by changes in economic, business and industry conditions .

 

If the economic climate in the United States or abroad deteriorates, customers or potential customers could reduce or delay their technology and entertainment investments. Reduced or delayed technology and entertainment investments could decrease our sales and profitability. In this environment, our customers may experience financial difficulty, cease operations and fail to budget or reduce budgets for the purchase of our products and professional services. This may lead to longer sales cycles, delays in purchase decisions, payment and collection, and can also result in downward price pressures, causing our sales and profitability to decline. In addition, general economic uncertainty and general declines in capital spending in the information technology sector make it difficult to predict changes in the purchasing requirements of our customers and the markets we serve. There are many other factors which could affect our business, including:

 

· The introduction and market acceptance of new technologies, products and services;
· New competitors and new forms of competition;
· The size and timing of customer orders (for retail distributed physical product); 
· The size and timing of capital expenditures by our customers; 
· Adverse changes in the credit quality of our customers and suppliers; 
· Changes in the pricing policies of, or the introduction of, new products and services by us or our competitors;
· Changes in the terms of our contracts with our customers or suppliers;
· The availability of products from our suppliers; and 
· Variations in product costs and the mix of products sold. 

 

These trends and factors could adversely affect our business, profitability and financial condition and diminish our ability to achieve our strategic objectives.

 

The sale of our products is dependent upon our ability to satisfy the proprietary requirements of our customers.

 

We depend upon a relatively narrow range of products for the majority of our revenue. Our success in marketing our products is dependent upon their continued acceptance by our customers. In some cases, our customers require that our products meet their own proprietary requirements. If we are unable to satisfy such requirements, or forecast and adapt to changes in such requirements, our business could be materially harmed.

 

The sale of our products is dependent on our ability to respond to rapid technological change, including evolving industry-wide standards, and may be adversely affected by the development, and acceptance by our customers, of new technologies which may compete with, or reduce the demand for, our products.

 

Rapid technological change, including evolving industry standards, could render our products obsolete. To the extent our customers adopt such new technology in place of our products, the sales of our products may be adversely affected. Such competition may also increase pricing pressure for our products and adversely affect the revenues from such products.

  

Our limited ability to protect our proprietary information and technology may adversely affect our ability to compete, and our products could infringe upon the intellectual property rights of others, resulting in claims against us, the results of which could be costly.

 

Many of our products consist entirely or partly of proprietary technology owned by us. Although we seek to protect our technology through a combination of copyrights, trade secret laws and contractual obligations, these protections may not be sufficient to prevent the wrongful appropriation of our intellectual property, nor will they prevent our competitors from independently developing technologies that are substantially equivalent or superior to our proprietary technology. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries do not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. In order to defend our proprietary rights in the technology utilized in our products from third party infringement, we may be required to institute legal proceedings, which would be costly and would divert our resources from the development of our business. If we are unable to successfully assert and defend our proprietary rights in the technology utilized in our products, our future results could be adversely affected.

 

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Although we attempt to avoid infringing known proprietary rights of third parties in our product development efforts, we may become subject to legal proceedings and claims for alleged infringement from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Any claims relating to the infringement of third-party proprietary rights, even if not meritorious, could result in costly litigation, divert management’s attention and resources, require us to reengineer or cease sales of our products or require us to enter into royalty or license agreements which are not advantageous to us. In addition, parties making claims may be able to obtain an injunction, which could prevent us from selling our products in the United States or abroad.

   

If we are unable to satisfy our customers’ specific product quality, certification or network requirements, our business could be disrupted and our financial condition could be harmed.

 

Our customers demand that our products meet stringent quality, performance and reliability standards. We have, from time to time, experienced problems in satisfying such standards. Defects or failures have occurred in the past, and may in the future occur, relating to our product quality, performance and reliability. From time to time, our customers also require us to implement specific changes to our products to allow these products to operate within their specific network configurations. If we are unable to remedy these failures or defects or if we cannot effect such required product modifications, we could experience lost revenues, increased costs, including inventory write-offs, warranty expense and costs associated with customer support, delays in, or cancellations or rescheduling of, orders or shipments and product returns or discounts, any of which would harm our business.

   

If we ship products that contain defects, the market acceptance of our products and our reputation will be harmed and our customers could seek to recover their damages from us.

 

Our products are complex, and despite extensive testing, may contain defects or undetected errors or failures that may become apparent only after our products have been shipped to our customers and installed in their network or after product features or new versions are released. Any such defect, error or failure could result in failure of market acceptance of our products or damage to our reputation or relations with our customers, resulting in substantial costs for us and our customers as well as the cancellation of orders, warranty costs and product returns. In addition, any defects, errors, misuse of our products or other potential problems within or out of our control that may arise from the use of our products could result in financial or other damages to our customers. Our customers could seek to have us pay for these losses. Although we maintain product liability insurance, it may not be adequate.

 

Some of our business is subject to U.S. government procurement laws and regulations .

 

We must comply with certain laws and regulations relating to the formation, administration and performance of federal government contracts. These laws and regulations affect how we conduct business with our federal government contracts, including the business that we do as a subcontractor. In complying with these laws and regulations, we may incur additional costs, and non-compliance may lead to the assessment of fines and penalties, including contractual damages, or the loss of business.

  

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry – Digital Farms

 

We intend to develop an online cloud mining platform which may subject us to additional liabilities from our customers.

 

We intend to develop and offer a cloud mining platform to customers who prefer not to directly acquire and maintain crypto mining hardware. To date, we have offered the cloud mining platform to selected customers prior to offering the platform to the general public. The success of this business will be largely dependent on achieving sustainable revenues that are dependent on prices of the various currencies and controlling costs, which are primarily power and computer hardware.  In addition, through our management and administration of crypto mining equipment on behalf of our customers, we may become subject to actions from our customers seeking to recover for liabilities arising from, among other matters:

 

· erroneously accounting for proceeds from crypto mining activities;
· power, network or technology failures which prevent our miners from operating efficiently;
· delays in processing payments at times when there are significant fluctuations in the price of the cryptocurrencies; and
· hackers or other malicious groups or organizations targeting and attempting to interfere with our miners which could negatively affect the operations of such miners.

 

We may lose access to digital tokens and any cryptocurrency due to loss of private key(s), custodial error, or purchaser error.

 

A private key, or a combination of private keys, is necessary to control and dispose of cryptocurrency stored in a digital wallet or vault. Accordingly, loss of requisite private key(s) associated with a digital wallet or vault storing cryptocurrency will result in loss of such cryptocurrency. Moreover, any third party that gains access to such private key(s), including by gaining access to login credentials of a digital wallet or secure services that we use, may be able to misappropriate any digital token or cryptocurrency held by us. Any errors or malfunctions caused by or otherwise related to the digital wallet that we choose to receive and store cryptocurrency, including our failure to properly maintain or use such digital wallet or secure service, may also result in the loss of any cryptocurrency that we hold.  Additionally, any failure on our part to follow precisely the procedures for buying and receiving cryptocurrency, including, for instance, if it provides the wrong address for receiving cryptocurrency, may result in the loss of any cryptocurrency held or purchased by us.

   

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Hackers or other malicious groups or organizations may attempt to interfere with end users of digital tokens, or cryptocurrency, in a variety of ways.

 

Hackers or other malicious groups or organizations may target and attempt to interfere with end users of digital tokens, or cryptocurrency, in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to, end user attacks such as malware attacks, denial of service attacks, consensus-based attacks, Sybil attacks, smurfing and spoofing. Furthermore, although we utilize a closed system to mine cryptocurrency, there is a risk that a third party or one of our employees may intentionally or unintentionally introduce weaknesses into the core infrastructure, which could negatively affect us and any cryptocurrency with which we are involved.

 

We have discretion over the maintenance, storage and transmission of our cryptocurrency holdings. Currently investments and holdings in cryptocurrencies by our company are uninsured and, as a result, we may lose all of our money invested in cryptocurrencies without any recourse.

 

Unlike bank accounts or accounts at some other financial institutions, cryptocurrencies are generally uninsured unless an investor purchases private insurance to insure them or holds them with a vendor which provides insurance. Thus, in the event of loss or loss of utility value, there is no public insurer, such as the Securities Investor Protection Corporation or the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, to offer recourse to any investor, including our company, unless covered independently by private insurance arranged by us. Further, we have wide discretion over the storage of its cryptocurrency holdings. We intend to use various third party wallet providers, trust companies or others to hold its cryptocurrency holdings. We may have a high concentration of its cryptocurrency holdings in one location or with one third party wallet provider, which may be prone to losses arising out of hacking, loss of passwords, compromised access credentials, malware, cyber-attacks or other factors. We may not do detailed diligence on third party wallet providers and, as a result, may not be aware of all security vulnerabilities and risks. Certain third party wallet providers may not indemnify us against any losses thereby hurting our ability to recover losses from third party wallet providers. The systems in place to ensure the security of our company’s cryptocurrency holdings may not prevent the improper access to, damage or theft of our company’s holdings in cryptocurrencies. Further, a loss due to the storage of our company’s cryptocurrencies could harm our reputation or result in the loss of some or all of our company’s cryptocurrencies, including those assets held on behalf of customers for our online cloud mining platform.

 

The regulatory status of cryptocurrency and distributed ledger technology is unclear or unsettled in many jurisdictions and it is difficult to predict the impact future regulation may have on either.

 

The regulatory status of cryptocurrency and distributed ledger technology is unclear or unsettled in many jurisdictions. It is difficult to predict how or whether regulatory agencies may apply existing regulation with respect to such technology and its applications. It is likewise difficult to predict how or whether legislatures or regulatory agencies may implement changes to law and regulation affecting distributed ledger technology and its applications, including applicable cryptocurrency protocols.  Regulatory actions could negatively impact any cryptocurrency in various ways, including, for purposes of illustration only, through a determination that cryptocurrency are a regulated financial instrument that requires registration or licensing.

 

The tax characterization of cryptocurrency is uncertain.

 

Cryptocurrency holders may be required to pay taxes associated with the transactions contemplated herein, whether in the United States or in their home countries. It is the sole responsibility of cryptocurrency holders to comply with the tax laws of the United States and other jurisdictions applicable to them and pay all relevant taxes. The sale or other exchange of cryptocurrency, or the use of cryptocurrency to pay for goods or services, or holding cryptocurrency as an investment, generally has tax consequences that could result in tax liability. In 2014, the Internal Revenue Service issued guidance on the tax treatment of transactions using cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or other similar currencies.

   

The transfer of any cryptocurrency may be restricted, which may adversely affect its liquidity and the price at which it may be sold.

 

Cryptocurrency has not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act of 1933,as amended (the “ Securities Act ”) or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold except pursuant to an exemption from, or a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and any other applicable laws and regulations. These restrictions may limit the ability of investors to resell cryptocurrency. It is the responsibility of any holder of a digital token or a cryptocurrency to ensure that all offers and sales of cryptocurrency within the United States and other jurisdictions comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

 

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Cryptocurrency confers no governance rights in any entity.

 

Because cryptocurrencies confer no governance rights of any kind with respect to any entity with which such digital token or cryptocurrency may be associated, all decisions involving a related company will be made by the management and/or stockholders of such company at their sole discretion.  These decisions could adversely affect the utility or value of any applicable digital token or cryptocurrency.

 

There are unanticipated and unknown risks in buying and holding cryptocurrency and/or cryptographic tokens.

 

Digital tokens and various cryptocurrencies are a relatively new and untested technology. In addition to the risks specified in these risk factors, there are other risks associated with either our company’s purchase, holding and use of digital tokens and cryptocurrency cannot be anticipated. Such risks may further materialize as unanticipated variations or combinations of the risks discussed in this annual report. Since the price of Bitcoin reached its zenith in December of 2017, it has until very recently steadily declined, and has in management’s opinion been the principal cause of the very considerable decline in the market price of our common stock ever since.

 

Our decision to deal in cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, may subject us to exchange risk and additional tax and regulatory requirements.

 

Bitcoin is not considered legal tender or backed by any government, and it has experienced price volatility, technological glitches and various law enforcement and regulatory interventions. The use of cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin has been prohibited or effectively prohibited in some countries. If we fail to comply with regulations or prohibitions applicable to us, we could face regulatory or other enforcement actions and potential fines and other consequences. From time to time, we may hold bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies directly, and we have exchange rate risk on the amounts we hold as well as the risks that regulatory or other developments may adversely affect the value of the cryptocurrencies we hold. The uncertainties regarding legal and regulatory requirements relating to cryptocurrencies or transactions utilizing cryptocurrencies, as well as potential accounting and tax issues, or other requirements relating to cryptocurrencies could have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

Various cryptocurrencies facilitate the use of anonymous transactions which could adversely affect us.

 

Although bitcoin and other cryptocurrency transaction details are logged on the blockchain, a buyer or seller of bitcoin may never know to whom the public key belongs or the true identity of the party with whom it is transacting. Some public key addresses are randomized sequences of alphanumeric characters that, standing alone, do not provide sufficient information to identify users. Transacting with a counterparty that is unknown to us, such as a party making illicit use of cryptocurrencies, could have an adverse effect on us or our reputation.

 

Our investment in Digital Farms, Inc. may expose us to risks under laws and regulations with which we do not have significant experience.

 

In 2017, we established our cryptocurrency business, which is pursuing a variety of digital currency. We anticipate mining the top ten cryptocurrencies for our own account. These include Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin and Ethereum, along with other currencies that we consider to be in the top ten by market capitalization. Virtually every state in the U.S. regulates money transmitters and money services businesses. In some states the licensing requirements and regulations expressly cover companies engaged in digital currency activities; in other states it is not clear whether or how the existing laws and regulations apply to digital currency activities. Further, U.S. federal law requires registration of most such businesses with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“ FinCEN ”). These licenses and registrations subject companies to various anti-money laundering, know-your-customer, record-keeping, reporting and capital and bonding requirements, limitations on the investment of customer funds, and inspection by state and federal regulatory agencies. Under U.S. federal law, it is a crime for a person, entity or business that is required to be registered with FinCEN or licensed in any state to fail to do so, even if the person, entity or business was unaware of the licensing requirement. Further, under U.S. federal law, anyone who owns all or part of an unlicensed money transmitting business is subject to civil and criminal penalties. The business in which we have invested has represented to us that it has not taken any action that could subject it to registration with FinCEN or to the licensing requirements in any state and has agreed that it will not do so until it has become properly licensed in all required states and registered with FinCEN. However, if the business makes an error, even inadvertently, we could be subject to potential civil and criminal penalties as a result. Any such penalties, or even the allegation of criminal activities, could have a material adverse effect on us and our business. Further, all of our foreign business activities expose us to a variety of risks, including risks under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.

  

U.S. and international regulatory changes or actions may restrict the use of or impose heightened regulatory burdens on cryptocurrency or the operation of cryptocurrency network based on currency, securities, or commodities regulations in a manner that adversely affects an investment in us.

 

Until recently, little or no regulatory attention has been directed toward cryptocurrency and the cryptocurrency networks by U.S. federal and state governments, foreign governments, and self-regulatory agencies. As cryptocurrency has grown in popularity and in market size, the Federal Reserve Board, U.S. Congress, and certain U.S. agencies (e.g., FinCEN and the Federal Bureau of Investigation) have begun to examine the operations of cryptocurrency networks, cryptocurrency users, and cryptocurrency exchange markets. Local state regulators such as the California Department of Financial Institutions and the New York State Department of Financial Services have also initiated examinations of Bitcoins, the Bitcoin Network, and the regulation thereof. Additionally, a U.S. federal magistrate judge in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas has ruled that “Bitcoin is a currency or form of money,” two CFTC commissioners publicly expressed a belief that derivatives based on Bitcoins are subject to the same regulation as those based on commodities, and the IRS released guidance treating cryptocurrency as property that is not currency for U.S. federal income tax purposes, although there is no indication yet whether other courts or federal or state regulators will follow these asset classifications. There is a possibility of future regulatory change altering, perhaps to a material extent, the nature of an investment in us or our ability to continue to operate.

 

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Currently, the SEC has not formally asserted regulatory authority over cryptocurrency, cryptocurrency networks, or cryptocurrency trading and ownership. However, in testimony before the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry on December 10, 2014, CFTC Chairman Timothy Massad stated that the CFTC believed it had jurisdiction over derivative instruments such as futures and swaps based on digital currencies. In 2015, the CFTC found virtual currencies such as Bitcoin to be commodities subject to oversight under its authority under the Commodity Exchange Act. Since then, the CFTC has taken action against unregistered Bitcoin futures exchanges; enforced the laws prohibiting wash trading and prearranged trades on a derivatives platform; issued proposed guidance on what is a derivative market and what is a spot market in the virtual currency context; issued warnings about valuations and volatility in spot virtual currency markets; and addressed a virtual currency Ponzi scheme. On May 21, 2018, the CFTC issued a joint staff advisory that gives exchanges and clearinghouses registered with the CFTC guidance for listing virtual currency derivative products. The advisory provides guidance on certain enhancements when listing a derivative contract based on virtual currency and clarifies the CFTC staffs’ priorities and expectations in its review of new virtual currency derivatives to be listed on a designated contract market or swap execution facility, or to be cleared by a derivatives clearing organization. Further, on September 26, 2018, the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts entered an order holding that the CFTC has the power to prosecute fraud involving virtual currency, which order is consistent with certain prior judicial decisions.

 

On July 25, 2017, the SEC issued an investigative report, stating that offers and sales of digital assets by “virtual” organizations using distributed ledger or cryptocurrency technology (i.e., Initial Coin Offerings or Token Sales) are subject to the requirements of the federal securities laws. On June 6, 2018, the Chairman of the SEC clarified the agency’s position, stating that while Bitcoin is a commodity, the SEC does not deem it and similar cryptocurrency coins to be securities, in contrast to initial coin offerings of tokens do fall within the definition of a security and will be regulated as such. In March of 2019, the SEC announced that it is it is looking for an “attorney advisor” to operate as a “Crypto Specialist,” which many observers interpret as an indication that SEC is stepping up its efforts to regulate cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, the SEC has raised concerns with instances of public companies changing their business models to reflect a focus on cryptocurrency or blockchain technology and is looking closely at the disclosures of public companies that shift their business models to capitalize on the perceived promise of distributed ledger technology and whether the disclosures comply with the federal securities laws, particularly in the context of a securities offering, and in a few instances halted the trading of companies. To the extent that Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoins, themselves are determined to be a security, commodity future or other regulated asset, or to the extent that a US or foreign government or quasi-governmental agency exerts regulatory authority over the Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin Networks, or cryptocurrency trading and ownership, trading or ownership in cryptocurrency may be adversely affected, which could adversely affect an investment in our company.

 

To the extent that future regulatory actions or policies limit the ability to exchange cryptocurrency or utilize them for payments, the demand for cryptocurrency will be reduced. Furthermore, regulatory actions may limit the ability of end-users to convert cryptocurrency into fiat currency (e.g., U.S. Dollars) or use cryptocurrency to pay for goods and services. Such regulatory actions or policies could adversely affect an investment in us. 

 

Cryptocurrency currently faces an uncertain regulatory landscape in not only the United States but also in many foreign jurisdictions such as the European Union, China and Russia. While certain governments such as Germany—where the Ministry of Finance has declared Bitcoins to be “Rechnungseinheiten” (a form of private money that is recognized as a unit of account, but not recognized in the same manner as fiat currency) — have issued guidance as to how to treat bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies, most regulatory bodies have not yet issued official statements regarding intention to regulate or determinations on regulation of cryptocurrency, the cryptocurrency networks, and cryptocurrency users. Among those for which preliminary guidance has been issued in some form, Canada and Taiwan have labeled cryptocurrency as a digital or virtual currency, distinct from fiat currency, while Sweden and Norway are among those to categorize cryptocurrency as a form of virtual asset or commodity. In China, authorities have recently banned use of bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies and ordered Beijing-based cryptocurrency exchanges to cease trading and immediately notify users of their closures. Similarly, Russia has indicated an intention to ban use of bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies and Russia’s Central Bank stated that at this stage they will not approve any cryptocurrency trading on any official exchange, nor will it approve the use of the technology for infrastructure purposes. In May 2014, the Central Bank of Bolivia banned the use of Bitcoins as a means of payment. In the summer and fall of 2014, Ecuador announced plans for its own state-backed electronic money, while passing legislation that reportedly prohibits the use of decentralized digital currencies. Conversely, regulatory bodies in some countries such as India and Switzerland have declined to exercise regulatory authority when afforded the opportunity. Various foreign jurisdictions may, in the near future, adopt laws, regulations, or directives that affect cryptocurrency networks and its users, particularly cryptocurrency exchanges and service providers that fall within such jurisdictions’ regulatory scope. Other countries such as Malaysia and Australia have been considering regulation, classification, and potential bans. Such laws, regulations, or directives may conflict with those of the United States and may negatively impact the acceptance of cryptocurrency by users, merchants, and service providers outside of the United States and may, therefore, impede the growth of the cryptocurrency economy.

 

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The effect of any future regulatory change on our company or cryptocurrency is impossible to predict, but such change could be substantial and adverse to us and could adversely affect an investment in us.

 

It may be illegal now, or in the future, to acquire, own, hold, sell or use cryptocurrency in one or more countries, and ownership of, holding or trading in or company’s securities may also be considered illegal and subject to sanction.

 

Although currently cryptocurrency is not regulated or are lightly regulated in most countries, including the United States, one or more countries may take regulatory actions in the future that severely restricts the right to acquire, own, hold, sell or use cryptocurrency or to exchange cryptocurrency for fiat currency. Such restrictions may adversely affect an investment in our company.

 

Cryptocurrency transactions are irrevocable and stolen or incorrectly transferred cryptocurrency may be irretrievable. As a result, any incorrectly executed cryptocurrency transactions could render the company liable to lawsuits or criminal charges to the extent company facilitates bad transactions, and thus, adversely affect an investment in us.

 

Cryptocurrency transactions are not, from an administrative perspective, reversible without the consent and active participation of the recipient of the transaction or, in theory, control or consent of a majority of the processing power on the cryptocurrency network. Once a transaction has been verified and recorded in a block that is added to the blockchain, an incorrect transfer of cryptocurrency or a theft of cryptocurrency generally will not be reversible and we may not be capable of seeking compensation for any such transfer or theft. Although our transfers of cryptocurrency will regularly be made to or from vendors, consultants, services providers, etc. it is possible that, through computer or human error, or through theft or criminal action, our cryptocurrency could be transferred from us in incorrect amounts or to unauthorized third parties. To the extent that we are unable to seek a corrective transaction with such third-party or are incapable of identifying the third-party that has received our cryptocurrency through error or theft, we will be unable to revert or otherwise recover incorrectly transferred company cryptocurrency. To the extent that we are unable to seek redress for such error or theft, such loss could adversely affect an investment in us. In addition, incorrectly executed cryptocurrency transactions could render company liable to lawsuits or criminal charges to the extent company facilitates bad transactions, and thus, adversely affect an investment in us.

 

The cryptocurrency exchanges on which cryptocurrencies trade are relatively new and, in most cases, largely unregulated and may therefore be more exposed to fraud and failure than established, regulated exchanges for other products. To the extent that the cryptocurrency exchanges representing a substantial portion of the volume in cryptocurrency trading are involved in fraud or experience security failures or other operational issues, such cryptocurrency exchanges’ failures may result in a reduction in the price of cryptocurrency and can adversely affect an investment in us.

  

The cryptocurrency exchanges on which cryptocurrency trade are new and, in most cases, largely unregulated. Furthermore, many cryptocurrency exchanges do not provide the public with significant information regarding their ownership structure, management teams, corporate practices, or regulatory compliance. As a result, the marketplace may lose confidence in, or may experience problems relating to, cryptocurrency exchanges, including prominent exchanges handling a significant portion of the volume of cryptocurrency trading. These potential consequences of a cryptocurrency exchange’s failure could reduce the demand and use of cryptocurrency, reduce the value of cryptocurrency, and/or adversely affect an investment in us.

 

In the past, many cryptocurrency exchanges have been closed due to fraud, failure, or security breaches. In many of these instances, the customers of such cryptocurrency exchanges were not compensated or made whole for the partial or complete losses of their account balances in such cryptocurrency exchanges. While smaller cryptocurrency exchanges are less likely to have the infrastructure and capitalization that make larger cryptocurrency exchanges more stable, larger cryptocurrency exchanges are more likely to be appealing targets for hackers and “malware” (i.e., software used or programmed by attackers to disrupt computer operation, gather sensitive information, or gain access to private computer systems).

 

If the awards of cryptocurrency for solving blocks and transaction fees for recording transactions are not sufficiently high to incentivize miners, miners may respond in a way that reduces confidence in the cryptocurrency networks, which could adversely affect an investment in our company.

 

If the award of new cryptocurrency for solving blocks declines and transaction fees are not sufficiently high, miners may not have an adequate incentive to continue mining cryptocurrency and may cease their crypto mining operations.  Miners ceasing operations would reduce the collective processing power on the cryptocurrency networks, which would adversely affect the confirmation process for transactions (i.e., temporarily decreasing the speed at which blocks are added to the blockchain until the next scheduled adjustment in difficulty for block solutions) and make the cryptocurrency networks more vulnerable to a malicious actor or botnet obtaining control in excess of 50 percent of the processing power on the cryptocurrency networks. Any reduction in confidence in the confirmation process or processing power of cryptocurrency networks may adversely impact Digital Farms, Inc., as well as an investment in us.

 

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In addition, to the extent to which the value of cryptocurrency mined by a professionalized crypto mining operation exceeds the allocable capital and operating costs determines the profit margin of such operation. A professionalized crypto mining operation may be more likely to sell a higher percentage of its newly mined cryptocurrency rapidly if it is operating at a low profit margin—and it may partially or completely cease operations if its profit margin is negative. In a low profit margin environment, a higher percentage of the new cryptocurrency mined each day will be sold into the cryptocurrency exchange markets more rapidly, thereby reducing cryptocurrency prices. Lower cryptocurrency prices will result in further tightening of profit margins, particularly for professionalized crypto mining operations with higher costs and more limited capital reserves, creating a network effect that may further reduce the price of cryptocurrency until crypto mining operations with higher operating costs become unprofitable and remove mining power from the cryptocurrency networks. The network effect of reduced profit margins resulting in greater sales of newly mined cryptocurrency could result in a reduction in the price of cryptocurrency that could adversely impact Digital Farms, Inc., as well as an investment in our company.

 

To the extent that any miners cease to record transactions in solved blocks, transactions that do not include the payment of a transaction fee will not be recorded on the blockchain until a block is solved by a miner who does not require the payment of transaction fees. Any widespread delays in the recording of transactions could result in a loss of confidence in the cryptocurrency networks, which could adversely impact an investment in us.

 

To the extent that any miners cease to record transactions in solved blocks, such transactions will not be recorded on the blockchain. Currently, there are no known incentives for miners to elect to exclude the recording of transactions in solved blocks; however, to the extent that any such incentives arise (e.g., a collective movement among miners or one or more mining pools forcing cryptocurrency users to pay transaction fees as a substitute for or in addition to the award of new cryptocurrency upon the solving of a block), actions of miners solving a significant number of blocks could delay the recording and confirmation of transactions on the blockchain. Any systemic delays in the recording and confirmation of transactions on the blockchain could result in greater exposure to double-spending transactions and a loss of confidence in cryptocurrency networks, which could adversely impact an investment in our company.  

 

Intellectual property rights claims may adversely affect the operation of cryptocurrency networks.

 

Third parties may assert intellectual property claims relating to the holding and transfer of digital currencies and their source code. Regardless of the merit of any intellectual property or other legal action, any threatened action that reduces confidence in cryptocurrency networks’ long-term viability or the ability of end-users to hold and transfer cryptocurrency may adversely affect an investment in us. Additionally, a meritorious intellectual property claim could prevent us and other end-users from accessing cryptocurrency networks or holding or transferring their cryptocurrency. As a result, an intellectual property claim against us or other large cryptocurrency network participants could adversely affect an investment in us.

 

Currently, there is relatively small use of cryptocurrency in the marketplace in comparison to relatively large use by speculators, thus contributing to price volatility that could adversely affect an investment in us.

 

As relatively new products and technologies, cryptocurrency has only recently become widely accepted as a means of payment for goods and services, and use of cryptocurrency by remains limited. Conversely, a significant portion of cryptocurrency demand is generated by speculators and investors seeking to profit from the short- or long-term holding of cryptocurrency. A lack of expansion by cryptocurrency into our markets, or a contraction of such use, may result in increased volatility or a reduction in the price of cryptocurrencies, either of which could adversely impact an investment in us.

 

The acceptance of Bitcoin Network, Ethereum Network, or Litecoin Network software patches or upgrades by a significant, but not overwhelming, percentage of the users and miners in the respective networks could result in a “fork” in the blockchain, resulting in the operation of two separate networks until such time as the forked blockchains are merged. The temporary or permanent existence of forked blockchains could adversely impact Digital Farms, Inc. as well as an investment in our company.

 

Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are open source projects and, although there is an influential group of leaders in the cryptocurrency community, there is no official developer or group of developers that formally controls the Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin Networks. Any individual can download the particular cryptocurrency network software and make any desired modifications, which are proposed to users and miners on the respective network through software downloads and upgrades. A substantial majority of miners and the particular cryptocurrency users must consent to those software modifications by downloading the altered software or upgrade that implements the changes; otherwise, the changes do not become a part of the cryptocurrency network. Generally, changes to various cryptocurrency networks have been accepted by the vast majority of users and miners, ensuring that the cryptocurrency networks remain coherent economic systems; however, a developer or group of developers could potentially propose a modification to a cryptocurrency network that is not accepted by a vast majority of miners and users, but that is nonetheless accepted by a substantial population of participants in the respective cryptocurrency network. In such a case, and if the modification is material and/or not backwards compatible with the prior version of the respective cryptocurrency network software, a “fork” in the blockchain could develop and two separate networks of the same cryptocurrency could result, one running the pre-modification software program and the other running the modified version (e.g., a second bitcoin network). Such a fork in the blockchain typically would be addressed by community-led efforts to merge the forked blockchains, and several prior forks have been so merged without any material impact on the price of Bitcoin, although there can be no assurance that this will always be the case upon a fork. This kind of split in a Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin Network could materially and adversely impact an investment in us and, in the worst case scenario, harm the sustainability of the respective network’s economy.

 

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The open-source structure of cryptocurrency network protocol means that the developers and other contributors to the protocol are generally not directly compensated for their contributions in maintaining and developing the protocol. A failure to properly monitor and upgrade the protocol could damage the cryptocurrency network and an investment in us.

 

The Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin Networks operate based on an open-source protocol maintained by certain core developers and other contributors. The core developers are those developers employed by MIT Media Lab’s Digital Currency Initiative who oversee the Bitcoin Network. As these network protocols are not sold and the networks’ use does not generate revenues for its development team, the core developers and contributors are generally not compensated for maintaining and updating the respective cryptocurrency network protocol. To the extent that material issues arise with the Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin Network protocols, and the core developers and open-source contributor community are unable to address the issues adequately or in a timely manner, the respective cryptocurrency network, Digital Farms, Inc. and an investment in us may be adversely affected.

 

The further development and acceptance of cryptocurrency networks, which represents a new and rapidly changing industry, are subject to a variety of factors that are difficult to evaluate. The slowing or stopping of the development or acceptance of digital currency systems may adversely affect our business.

 

Digital currencies may be used, among other things, to buy and sell goods and services are a new and rapidly evolving industry. The growth of the digital currency industry in general, and in particular the Bitcoin industry, Ethereum industry, and Litecoin industry, are subject to a high degree of uncertainty. The factors affecting the further development of the digital currencies industry, as well as the Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin industries, include:

 

· Continued worldwide growth in the adoption and use of Bitcoins, Ethereum, and Litecoins, and other cryptocurrency;
· Government and quasi-government regulation of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, and other cryptocurrency and their use, or restrictions on or regulation of access to and operation of cryptocurrency networks and system;
· The maintenance and development of the open-source software protocol of various cryptocurrency networks;
· The availability and popularity of other forms or methods of buying and selling goods and services, including new means of using fiat currencies;
· General economic conditions and the regulatory environment relating to digital currencies; and
· A decline in the popularity or acceptance of the top cryptocurrencies or their networks could adversely affect an investment in us.

 

The value of cryptocurrency and fluctuations in the price of cryptocurrency could materially and adversely affect the business of Digital Farms, Inc.

 

Several factors may affect the value of cryptocurrency, including, but not limited to:

 

· Total cryptocurrency in existence;
· Global cryptocurrency demand, which is influenced by the growth of retail merchants’ and commercial businesses’ acceptance of cryptocurrency as payment for goods and services, the security of online cryptocurrency exchanges and digital wallets that hold cryptocurrency, the perception that the use and holding of cryptocurrency is safe and secure, the lack of regulatory restrictions on their use and the reputation of cryptocurrency for illicit use;
· Global cryptocurrency supply, which is influenced by similar factors as global cryptocurrency demand, in addition to fiat currency needs by miners (for example, to invest in equipment or pay electricity bills) and taxpayers who may liquidate cryptocurrency holdings around tax deadlines to meet tax obligations;
· Investors’ expectations with respect to the rate of inflation or deflation of fiat currencies or cryptocurrency;
· Interest rates;
· Currency exchange rates, including the rates at which cryptocurrency may be exchanged for fiat currencies;
· Fiat currency withdrawal and deposit policies of cryptocurrency exchanges and liquidity of such cryptocurrency exchanges;
· Interruptions in service from or failures of major cryptocurrency exchanges;
· Cyber theft of cryptocurrency from online cryptocurrency wallet providers, or news of such theft from such providers, or from individuals’ cryptocurrency wallets;
· Investment and trading activities of large investors, including private and registered funds, that may directly or indirectly invest in cryptocurrency;
· Monetary policies of governments, trade restrictions, currency devaluations and revaluations;

 

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· Regulatory measures, if any, that restrict the use of cryptocurrency as a form of payment or the purchase of cryptocurrency on the cryptocurrency market;
· The availability and popularity of businesses that provide cryptocurrency -related services;
· The maintenance and development of the open source software protocol of certain cryptocurrency networks;
· Increased competition from other forms of cryptocurrency or payments services;
· Global or regional political, economic, or financial events and situations;
· Expectations among cryptocurrency economy participants that the value of cryptocurrency will soon change; and
· Fees associated with processing a cryptocurrency transaction.

 

For example, we have paid for a number of miners at prices that appeared attractive at the time. However, as a result of the decline in the price of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies that began, generally speaking, in early 2018, using these machines to mine cryptocurrencies is no longer profitable. In addition see “Item 3, Legal Proceedings.”

 

Banks and financial institutions may not provide banking services, or may cut off services, to businesses that provide cryptocurrency-related services or that accept cryptocurrencies as payment, including financial institutions of investors in our securities.

 

A number of companies that provide bitcoin and/or other cryptocurrency-related services have been unable to find banks or financial institutions that are willing to provide them with bank accounts and other services. Similarly, a number of companies and individuals or businesses associated with cryptocurrencies may have had and may continue to have their existing bank accounts closed or services discontinued with financial institutions. We also may be unable to obtain or maintain these services for our business. The difficulty that many businesses that provide bitcoin and/or other cryptocurrency-related services have and may continue to have in finding banks and financial institutions willing to provide them services may be decreasing the usefulness of cryptocurrencies as a payment system and harming public perception of cryptocurrencies and could decrease its usefulness and harm its public perception in the future. Similarly, the usefulness of cryptocurrencies as a payment system and the public perception of cryptocurrencies could be damaged if banks or financial institutions were to close the accounts of businesses providing bitcoin and/or other cryptocurrency-related services.  This could occur as a result of compliance risk, cost, government regulation or public pressure. The risk applies to securities firms, clearance and settlement firms, national securities and commodities exchanges, the over the counter market and the Depository Trust Company, which, if any of such entities adopts or implements similar policies, rules or regulations, could result in the inability of our investors to open or maintain stock or commodities accounts, including the ability to deposit, maintain or trade our securities. Such factors would have a material adverse effect on the ability of our to continue as a going concern or to pursue its cryptocurrency business segment at all, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects or operations and harm investors. 

 

Possibility of cryptocurrency algorithms or protocols changing, such as a transition by some networks to proof of stake validation, and other crypto mining related risks could have an adverse impact on our business prospects.

 

The underlying cryptocurrency algorithms, protocols and other important factors are constantly changing. It is possible that these changes could negatively impact our business and business plans. Should the top cryptocurrencies that we intend to focus on shift their underlying protocols, algorithms, validation methods or other material factors (for instance from a proof of work validation method to a proof of stake method, which is an alternative method to proof of work for validating cryptocurrency transactions), it could adversely impact our business prospects. A shift from proof of work validation method to a proof of stake method could render any company that maintains advantages in the current climate (for example from lower priced electric, processing, real estate, or hosting) less competitive Any major changes related to the top cryptocurrencies could have an adverse impact on the ability of Digital Farms, Inc. to continue as going concerns or to pursue this segment at all, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects or operations of and potentially the value of any cryptocurrencies that we hold or expect to acquire for our own account.

 

The profitability and success of crypto mining is constantly changing due to various factors. These changes and our choices related to which cryptocurrencies to focus on for their own account or for customers could adversely affect our business results.

 

The miners that we have purchased allow us to decide which cryptocurrency to mine. The factors that affect the success of mining an individual cryptocurrency change rapidly. Should we choose the wrong cryptocurrency to focus our crypto mining operations on, it could adversely impact our business prospects.

   

To the extent that the profit margins of cryptocurrency mining operations are not high, operators of cryptocurrency mining operations are more likely to immediately sell cryptocurrency earned by mining in the market, resulting in a reduction in the price of cryptocurrencies that could adversely impact us and similar actions could affect other cryptocurrencies.

 

Over the years, crypto mining operations have evolved from individual users mining with computer processors, graphics processing units and first generation application-specific integrated circuit (“ ASIC ”) servers. Currently, new processing power is predominantly added by incorporated and unincorporated “professionalized” crypto mining operations. Professionalized crypto mining operations may use proprietary hardware or sophisticated ASIC machines acquired from ASIC manufacturers. They require the investment of significant capital for the acquisition of this hardware, the leasing of operating space (often in data centers or warehousing facilities), incurring of electricity costs and the employment of technicians to operate the cryptocurrency mining farms.

 

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As a result, professionalized crypto mining operations are of a greater scale than prior miners and have more defined, regular expenses and liabilities. These regular expenses and liabilities require professionalized crypto mining operations to more immediately sell cryptocurrencies earned from crypto mining operations, whereas it is believed that individual miners in past years were more likely to hold newly mined bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies for more extended periods. The immediate selling of newly mined bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies greatly increases the supply of bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies for sale, creating downward pressure on the price of bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies.

  

The extent to which the value of bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies mined by a professionalized crypto mining operation exceeds the allocable capital and operating costs determines the profit margin of such operation. A professionalized crypto mining operation may be more likely to sell a higher percentage of its newly mined bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies rapidly if it is operating at a low profit margin—and it may partially or completely cease operations if its profit margin is negative. In a low profit margin environment, a higher percentage could be sold more rapidly, thereby potentially reducing bitcoin and/or other cryptocurrencies prices. Lower bitcoin and/or other cryptocurrencies prices could result in further tightening of profit margins, particularly for professionalized crypto mining operations with higher costs and more limited capital reserves, creating a network effect that may further reduce the price of bitcoin until crypto mining operations with higher operating costs become unprofitable and remove mining power. The network effect of reduced profit margins resulting in greater sales of newly mined bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies could result in a reduction in the price of bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies that could adversely impact business of Digital Farms, Inc. and our company.

 

The foregoing risks associated with bitcoin could be equally applicable to other cryptocurrencies, existing now or introduced in the future.  Such circumstances would have a material adverse effect on our ability to continue as a going concern or to pursue this segment at all, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects or operations and potentially the value of any cryptocurrencies that we may hold or acquire for our own account and harm investors. 

 

Should new services/software embodying new technologies emerge, our or our investments’ ability to recognize the value of the use of existing hardware and equipment and its underlying technology, may become obsolete and require substantial capital to replace such equipment.

 

The increase in interest and demand for cryptocurrencies has led to a shortage of crypto mining hardware as individuals purchase equipment for mining at home and large scale mining evolved. Equipment in Digital Farms, Inc.’s crypto mining facilities will require replacement from time to time and new technological innovations could render our current equipment obsolete at any time. Shortages of graphics processing units may lead to unnecessary downtime for miners and limit the availability or accessibility of cryptocurrency mining processing capabilities in the industry. Such events would have a material adverse effect on our ability to continue as a going concern or to pursue this segment at all, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects or operations and potentially the value of any cryptocurrencies that we may hold or expect to acquire for our own account.

   

We have an evolving business model.

 

As Digital Assets and blockchain technologies become more widely available, we expect the services and products associated with them to evolve. Very recently, the Commission issued a report that promoters that use initial coin offerings or token sales to raise capital may be engaged in the offer and sale of securities in violation of the Securities Act and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “ Exchange Act ”). This may cause us to potentially change our future business in order to comply fully with the federal securities laws as well as applicable state securities laws. As a result, to stay current with the industry, our business model may need to evolve as well. From time to time we may modify aspects of our business model relating to our product mix and service offerings. We cannot offer any assurance that these or any other modifications will be successful or will not result in harm to the business. We may not be able to manage growth effectively, which could damage our reputation, limit our growth and negatively affect our operating results.

 

“Digital Asset” — Collectively, all digital assets based upon a computer-generated math-based and/or cryptographic protocol that may, among other things, be used to buy and sell goods or pay for services. Bitcoins represent one type of Digital Asset.

 

“Digital Security” — A type of Digital Asset that is offered by a promoter as an investment contract, which is a type of security defined by Section 2(a)(1) of the Securities Act.

 

Since there has been limited precedence set for financial accounting of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets, it is unclear how we will be required to account for digital assets transactions in the future.

 

Since there has been limited precedence set for the financial accounting of digital assets, it is unclear how we will be required to account for digital asset transactions or assets. Furthermore, a change in regulatory or financial accounting standards could result in the necessity to restate our financial statements. Such a restatement could negatively impact our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operation. Such circumstances would have a material adverse effect on our ability to continue as a going concern or to pursue this segment at all, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects or operations and potentially the value of any cryptocurrencies that we hold or acquire for our own account and harm investors.

 

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Demand for bitcoins is driven, in part, by its status as the most prominent and secure digital asset. It is possible that a digital asset other than bitcoins could have features that make it more desirable to a material portion of the digital asset user base, resulting in a reduction in demand for bitcoins, which could have a negative impact on the price of bitcoins and adversely affect an investment in our securities.

 

The Bitcoin Network and bitcoins, as an asset, hold a “first-to-market” advantage over other digital assets. This first-to-market advantage is driven in large part by having the largest user base and, more importantly, the largest combined mining power in use to secure the blockchain and transaction verification system.   Having a large crypto mining network results in greater user confidence regarding the security and long-term stability of a digital asset’s network and its blockchain; as a result, the advantage of more users and miners makes a digital asset more secure, which makes it more attractive to new users and miners, resulting in a network effect that strengthens the first-to-market advantage.

 

There are thousands of alternate digital assets (or altcoins). Bitcoin enjoys significantly greater acceptance and usage than other altcoin networks in the retail and commercial marketplace, due in large part to the relatively well-funded efforts of payment processing companies including BitPay and Coinbase.

 

Despite the marked first-mover advantage of the Bitcoin Network over other digital assets, it is possible that an altcoin could become materially popular due to either a perceived or exposed shortcoming of the Bitcoin Network protocol that is not immediately addressed by the core developers of Bitcoin or a perceived advantage of an altcoin that includes features not incorporated into Bitcoin. If an altcoin obtains significant market share (either in market capitalization, mining power or use as a payment technology), this could reduce Bitcoin’s market share and have a negative impact on the demand for, and price of, bitcoins, which in turn, may materially and adversely affect the business, prospects or operations of the Digital Farms, Inc. and our company. 

 

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry - Microphase

 

Microphase has a history of losses and our future profitability on a quarterly or annual basis is uncertain, which could have a harmful effect on our business and the value of our company.

 

During the past three fiscal years Microphase has incurred losses from operations. These losses are attributable to lower volumes of its products sold to major defense contractors partially as a result of the overall reduction in defense spending and sequestration by the U.S. Congress. Since the financial crisis of 2008, Microphase has been significantly short of capital needed to acquire parts for production of its products to complete orders for such products. At times, Microphase has not had the cash available to make advance payments for the purchase of parts, and then, as a consequence, Microphase would not receive the parts from its vendors required to finish a customer order. This would then delay the delivery of products to customers, and would also delay recognition of the resulting revenues and the receipt of cash from the customer. Sometimes after experiencing a delay in delivery of an order from Microphase, the customer would not place its next order with Microphase, resulting in a loss of business.

 

Microphase’s future profitability depends upon many factors, including several that are beyond its control. These factors include, without limitation:

 

· changes in the demand for ITS products and services;
· loss of key customers or contracts;
· the introduction of competitive products;
· the failure to gain market acceptance of ITS new and existing products; and
· the failure to successfully and cost effectively develop, introduce and market new products, services and product enhancements in a timely manner.

 

In addition, Microphase is incurring significant legal, accounting, and other expenses related to being a reporting company without there being a trading market for any of its securities. As a result of these expenditures, Microphase will have to generate and sustain increased revenue to achieve and maintain future profitability.

 

A large percentage of Microphase’s current revenue is derived from prime defense contractors to the U.S. government and its allies, and the loss of these relationships, a reduction in U.S. government funding or a change in U.S. government spending priorities or bidding processes could have an adverse impact on its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 

 

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Microphase is highly dependent on sales to major defense contractors of the U.S. military and its allies, including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, BAE Systems and SAAB. The percentages of its revenue that were derived from sales to these named major defense contractors and directly to the U.S. Government were 55.6% in fiscal 2018 and 59.0% in fiscal 2017. Therefore, any significant disruption or deterioration of Microphase’s relationship with any such major defense contractors or the U.S. Government could materially reduce its revenue.  During the year ended December 31, 2018 there were two customers that accounted for more than 10% of sales:  BAE Systems, Saab and Lockheed Martin.  During the year ended December 31, 2017 there were two customers that accounted for more than 10% of sales: BAE Systems and SAAB. Microphase’s competitors continuously engage in efforts to expand their business relationships with the same major defense contractors and the U.S. Government and will continue these efforts in the future, and the U.S. Government may choose to use other contractors. Microphase expects that a majority of the business that it seeks will be awarded through competitive bidding. Microphase operates in highly competitive markets and its competitors have more extensive or more specialized engineering, manufacturing and marketing capabilities than Microphase does in many areas, and Microphase may not be able to continue to win competitively awarded contracts or to obtain task orders under multi-award contracts. Further, the competitive bidding process involves significant cost and managerial time to prepare bids and proposals for contracts that may not be awarded to Microphase, as well as the risk that Microphase may fail to accurately estimate the resources and costs required to fulfill any contract awarded to us. Following any contract award, Microphase may experience significant expense or delay, contract modification or contract rescission as a result of its competitors protesting or challenging contracts awarded to it in competitive bidding. Major defense contractors to whom Microphase supplies components for systems must compete with other major defense contractors (to which Microphase may not supply components) for military orders from the U.S. Government.

  

In addition, Microphase competes with other policy needs, which may be viewed as more necessary, for limited resources and an ever-changing amount of available funding in the budget and appropriation process. Budget and appropriations decisions made by the U.S. Government are outside of Microphase control and have long-term consequences for its business. U.S. Government spending priorities and levels remain uncertain and difficult to predict and are affected by numerous factors, including until recently sequestration (automatic, across-the-board U.S. Government budgetary spending cuts), and the purchase of our products could be superseded by alternate arrangements. While the US defense budget was recently increased, there can be no assurance that this increase will be maintained for the foreseeable future. A change in U.S. Government spending priorities or an increase in non-procurement spending at the expense of our programs, or a reduction in total U.S. Government spending, could have material adverse consequences on Microphase’s future business. 

 

Microphase’s U.S. government contracts may be terminated by the federal government at any time prior to their completion, which could lead to unexpected loss of sales and reduction in Microphase’s backlog.

 

Under the terms of Microphase’s U.S. government contracts, the U.S. government may unilaterally:

 

· terminate or modify existing contracts;
· reduce the value of existing contracts through partial termination; and
· delay the payment of Microphase’s invoices by government payment offices.

 

The federal government can terminate or modify any of its contracts with Microphase or its prime contractors either for the federal government’s convenience, or if Microphase or its prime contractors default, by failing to perform under the terms of the applicable contract. A termination arising out of Microphase’s default could expose it to liability and have a material adverse effect on its ability to compete for future federal government contracts and subcontracts. If the federal government or its prime contractors terminate and/or materially modify any of Microphase’s contracts or if any applicable options are not exercised, Microphase’s failure to replace sales generated from such contracts would result in lower sales and would adversely affect its earnings, which could have a material adverse effect on Microphase’s business, results of operations and financial condition. Microphase’s backlog as of December 31, 2018 was approximately $7.3 million. Microphase’s backlog could be adversely affected if contracts are modified or terminated.

 

Microphase’s products with military applications are subject to export regulations, and compliance with these regulations may be costly.

 

Microphase is required to obtain export licenses before filling foreign orders for many of its products that have military or other governmental applications. United States Export Administration regulations control technology exports like its products for reasons of national security and compliance with foreign policy, to guarantee domestic reserves of products in short supply and, under certain circumstances, for the security of a destination country. Thus, any foreign sales of its products requiring export licenses must comply with these general policies. Compliance with these regulations is costly, and these regulations are subject to change, and any such change may require Microphase to improve its technologies, incur expenses or both in order to comply with such regulations.

 

Microphase depends on U.S. government contracts issued to major defense contractors, which often are only partially funded, subject to immediate termination, and heavily regulated and audited. The termination or failure to fund, or negative audit findings for, one or more of these contracts could have an adverse impact on Microphase’s business. 

 

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Over its lifetime, a U.S. Government program awarded to a major defense contractor may be implemented by the award of many different individual contracts and subcontracts. The funding of U.S. Government programs is subject to Congressional appropriations. Although multi-year contracts may be authorized and appropriated in connection with major procurements, Congress generally appropriates funds on a fiscal year basis. Procurement funds are typically made available for obligations over the course of one to three years. Consequently, programs often receive only partial funding initially, and additional funds are designated only as Congress authorizes further appropriations. The termination of funding for a U.S. Government program with respect to major defense contractors for which Microphase is a subcontractor would result in a loss of anticipated future revenue attributable to that program, which could have an adverse impact on its operations. In addition, the termination of, or failure to commit additional funds to, a program for which Microphase is a subcontractor could result in lost revenue and increase its overall costs of doing business. 

 

Generally, U.S. Government contracts are subject to oversight audits by U.S. Government representatives. Such audits could result in adjustments to Microphase’s contract costs. Any costs found to be improperly allocated to a specific contract will not be reimbursed, and such costs already reimbursed must be refunded. Microphase has recorded contract revenues based on costs Microphase expect to realize upon final audit. However, Microphase does not know the outcome of any future audits and adjustments, and Microphase may be required to materially reduce its revenues or profits upon completion and final negotiation of audits. Negative audit findings could also result in termination of a contract, forfeiture of profits, suspension of payments, fines and suspension or debarment from U.S. Government contracting or subcontracting for a period of time.

 

In addition, U.S. Government contracts generally contain provisions permitting termination, in whole or in part, without prior notice at the U.S. Government’s convenience upon the payment only for work done and commitments made at the time of termination. Microphase can give no assurance that one or more of the U.S. Government contracts with a major defense contractor under which Microphase provides component products will not be terminated under these circumstances. Also, Microphase can give no assurance that it will be able to procure new contracts to offset the revenue or backlog lost as a result of any termination of its U.S. Government contracts. Because a significant portion of Microphase’s revenue is dependent on its performance and payment under its U.S. Government contracts, the loss of one or more large contracts could have a material adverse impact on its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 

 

Microphase’s government business also is subject to specific procurement regulations and other requirements. These requirements, though customary in U.S. Government contracts, increase its performance and compliance costs. In addition, these costs might increase in the future, thereby reducing Microphase’s margins, which could have an adverse effect on its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Failure to comply with these regulations and requirements could lead to fines, penalties, repayments, or compensatory or treble damages, or suspension or debarment from U.S. Government contracting or subcontracting for a period of time. Among the causes for debarment are violations of various laws, including those related to procurement integrity, export control, U.S. Government security regulations, employment practices, protection of the environment, accuracy of records, proper recording of costs and foreign corruption. The termination of a U.S. Government contract or relationship as a result of any of these acts would have an adverse impact on Microphase’s operations and could have an adverse effect on its standing and eligibility for future U.S. Government contracts.

  

Microphase’s business could be negatively impacted by cybersecurity threats and other security threats and disruptions.

 

As a U.S. Government defense contractor, Microphase faces certain security threats, including threats to its information technology infrastructure, attempts to gain access to its proprietary or classified information, threats to physical security, and domestic terrorism events. Microphase’s information technology networks and related systems are critical to the operation of its business and essential to its ability to successfully perform day-to-day operations. Microphase is also involved with information technology systems for certain customers and other third parties, which generally face similar security threats. Cybersecurity threats in particular, are persistent, evolve quickly and include, but are not limited to, computer viruses, attempts to access information, denial of service and other electronic security breaches. Microphase believes that it has implemented appropriate measures and controls and has invested in skilled information technology resources to appropriately identify threats and mitigate potential risks, but there can be no assurance that such actions will be sufficient to prevent disruptions to mission critical systems, the unauthorized release of confidential information or corruption of data. A security breach or other significant disruption involving these types of information and information technology networks and related systems could:

 

· disrupt the proper functioning of these networks and systems and therefore its operations and/or those of certain of its customers;
· result in the unauthorized access to, and destruction, loss, theft, misappropriation or release of, proprietary, confidential, sensitive or otherwise valuable information of Microphase or its customers, including trade secrets, which others could use to compete against Microphase or for disruptive, destructive or otherwise harmful purposes and outcomes;
· compromise national security and other sensitive government functions;
· require significant management attention and resources to remedy the damages that result;
· subject Microphase to claims for breach of contract, damages, credits, penalties or termination; and
· damage Microphase’s reputation with its customers (particularly agencies of the U.S. Government) and the public generally.

 

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Any or all of the foregoing could have a negative impact on its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

 

Microphase enters into fixed-price contracts that could subject it to losses in the event of cost overruns or a significant increase in inflation.

 

Microphase has a number of fixed-price contracts which allow it to benefit from cost savings but subject it to the risk of potential cost overruns, particularly for firm fixed-price contracts, because Microphase assumes the entire cost burden. If its initial estimates are incorrect, Microphase can lose money on these contracts. U.S. Government contracts can expose Microphase to potentially large losses because the U.S. Government can hold Microphase responsible for completing a project or, in certain circumstances, paying the entire cost of its replacement by another provider regardless of the size or foreseeability of any cost overruns that occur over the life of the contract. Because many of these contracts involve new technologies and applications, unforeseen events such as technological difficulties, fluctuations in the price of raw materials, problems with its suppliers and cost overruns, can result in the contractual price becoming less favorable or even unprofitable to Microphase. The U.S. and other countries also may experience a significant increase in inflation. A significant increase in inflation rates could have a significant adverse impact on the profitability of these contracts. Furthermore, if Microphase does not meet contract deadlines or specifications, Microphase may need to renegotiate contracts on less favorable terms, be forced to pay penalties or liquidated damages or suffer major losses if the customer exercises its right to terminate. In addition, some of its contracts have provisions relating to cost controls and audit rights, and if Microphase fails to meet the terms specified in those contracts Microphase may not realize their full benefits. Microphase’s results of operations are dependent on its ability to maximize its earnings from its contracts. Cost overruns could have an adverse impact on its financial results. 

 

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry - Enertec

 

Potential political, economic and military instability in Israel could adversely affect our operations.

 

Enertec’s operating facilities are located in Israel. Accordingly, political, economic and military conditions in Israel directly affect Enertec’s operations. Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, a number of armed conflicts have taken place between Israel and its Arab neighbors. A state of hostility, varying in degree and intensity, has led to security and economic problems for Israel. Since October 2000, there has been an increase in hostilities between Israel and the Palestinian Arabs, which has adversely affected the peace process and has negatively influenced Israel’s relationship with its Arab citizens and several Arab countries, including the Israel-Gaza conflict. Such ongoing hostilities may hinder Israel’s international trade relations and may limit the geographic markets where Enertec can sell its products and solutions. Hostilities involving or threatening Israel, or the interruption or curtailment of trade between Israel and its present trading partners, could materially and adversely affect Enertec’s operations.

 

In addition, Israel-based companies and companies doing business with Israel have been the subject of an economic boycott by members of the Arab League and certain other predominantly Muslim countries since Israel’s establishment. Although Israel has entered into various agreements with certain Arab countries and the Palestinian Authority, and various declarations have been signed in connection with efforts to resolve some of the economic and political problems in the Middle East, we cannot predict whether or in what manner these problems will be resolved. Wars and acts of terrorism have resulted in significant damage to the Israeli economy, including reducing the level of foreign and local investment.

 

Furthermore, certain of our officers and employees may be obligated to perform annual reserve duty in the Israel Defense Forces and are subject to being called up for active military duty at any time. All Israeli male citizens who have served in the army are subject to an obligation to perform reserve duty until they are between 40 and 49 years old, depending upon the nature of their military service.

 

 

Enertec may become subject to claims for remuneration or royalties for assigned service invention rights by its employees, which could result in litigation and harm our business.

 

A significant portion of the intellectual property covered by Enertec’s products has been developed by Enertec’s employees in the course of their employment for Enertec. Under the Israeli Patent Law, 5727-1967, or the Patent Law, and recent decisions by the Israeli Supreme Court and the Israeli Compensation and Royalties Committee, a body constituted under the Patent Law, Israeli employees may be entitled to remuneration for intellectual property that they develop for us unless they explicitly waive any such rights. To the extent that Enertec is unable to enter into agreements with its future employees pursuant to which they agree that any inventions created in the scope of their employment or engagement are owned exclusively by Enertec (as it has done in the past), Enertec may face claims demanding remuneration. As a consequence of such claims, Enertec could be required to pay additional remuneration or royalties to its current and former employees, or be forced to litigate such claims, which could negatively affect its business.

 

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Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common Stock

 

  If we do not continue to satisfy the NYSE American continued listing requirements, our common stock could be delisted from NYSE American.

 

The listing of our common stock on the NYSE American is contingent on our compliance with the NYSE American’s conditions for continued listing. On December 18, 2015, we were notified by the NYSE American that we were no longer in compliance with the NYSE American continued listing standards because our reported stockholders' equity was below continued listing standards. The NYSE American requires that a listed company's stockholders' equity be $4.0 million or more if it has reported losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in three of its four most recent fiscal years. Subsequently, the NYSE American informed us that we are required to attain stockholders’ equity of $6.0 million or more because we experienced a loss for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

Following submission of our compliance plan demonstrating how we intend to regain compliance with the continued listing standards, we were notified on March 9, 2016, that the NYSE American granted us a listing extension on the basis of our plan until June 19, 2017. We are subject to periodic review by NYSE American staff during the extension period. Failure to make progress consistent with the plan or to regain compliance with the continued listing standards by the end of the extension period could result in our common stock being delisted from the NYSE American.

  

On June 19, 2017, we filed a Form 8-K report with the Commission announcing that our Stockholders' Equity was approximately $6,409,000 on a pro-forma basis. In a letter dated June 20, 2017, the NYSE American notified us that we had successfully regained compliance with the NYSE American continued listing standards. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in light of our continue losses, there is no assurance that we will be able to continue to meet the NYSE American continued listing standard. Failure to meet the NYSE American listing requirement, we may be subject to delisting by the NYSE American. In the event our common stock is no longer listed for trading on the NYSE American, our trading volume and share price may decrease and we may experience further difficulties in raising capital which could materially affect our operations and financial results.

 

On November 20, 2017, we received a letter from NYSE Regulation indicating that the NYSE American had concluded that we failed to comply with Section 401(a) of the NYSE American’s Company Guide, which section requires that a listed company “make immediate public disclosure of all material information concerning its affairs” The letter, which relates to our disclosure of certain personnel changes to our board of directors and officers, provided that such letter constituted a warning letter issued to us pursuant to Section 1009(a)(i) of the NYSE American Company Guide. On October 12, 2017, we filed a Form 8-K that disclosed that certain personnel changes to our board of directors and executive officers were effective October 6, 2017. On November 6, 2017, we filed an amendment to the above referenced Form 8-K that disclosed that the personnel changes had not in fact occurred. After discussion with the NYSE American, on November 8, 2017, we filed a subsequent Form 8-K that further clarified that we had determined to rescind the personnel changes as of October 23, 2017. In that Form 8-K, we provided additional disclosure explaining why the personnel changes were not undertaken.

 

On November 29, 2017, we notified the NYSE American, LLC that we were no longer in compliance with Rule 801(h) of the NYSE American Company Guide because, as a smaller reporting company, our Board of Directors was not comprised of at least 50% independent directors. On November 28, 2017, our Board of Directors approved the issuance of cash compensation, and 10,000 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 50,000 shares of common stock subject to vesting and stockholder approval, to Mr. William Horne, a director of our company, for services. As a result of this compensation, Mr. Horne may not be deemed independent within the meaning of Section 803A(2) of the NYSE American Company Guide. Mr. Horne has resigned from the audit committee of the Board of Directors. Robert Smith has been appointed as chair of the audit committee. On December 8, 2017, our board of directors rescinded the equity compensation granted to Mr. Horne.  We believe that we are therefore presently in compliance with Rule 801(h) of the NYSE American Company Guide.

 

On January 4, 2019, we received a deficiency letter from NYSE American indicating that we were not in compliance with the continued listing standards as set forth in Section 1003(f)(v) of the NYSE American Company Guide (the “ Company Guide ”). Specifically, the letter informed the Company that the Exchange has determined that the shares of our common stock have been selling for a low price per share for a substantial period of time and, pursuant to Section 1003(f)(v) of the Company Guide, the Company's continued listing is predicated on the Company effecting a reverse stock split of our common stock or otherwise demonstrating sustained price improvement within a reasonable period of time, which the NYSE American determined to be no later than July 4, 2019. As noted above, on March 18, 2019 we effectuated a reverse split whereby each twenty (20) shares of our common stock were combined into one such share, which increased the market price to a level where we regained compliance with the Company Guide. However, since that time our common stock has declined significantly and there can be no assurance that it will not continue to do so. If the decline is sufficiently marked, we will in all likelihood receive another letter similar to the one referenced above; however, there can be no assurance that we could in that event successfully conduct another reverse split on a timely basis, if at all, or that the NYSE Exchange will not take more drastic action, up to and including delisting our shares of common stock from the exchange.

 

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Our common stock price is volatile.

 

Our common stock is listed on the NYSE American. In the past, our trading price has fluctuated widely, depending on many factors that may have little to do with our operations or business prospects. The exercise of outstanding options and warrants may adversely affect our stock price and a stockholder’s percentage of ownership. As of December 31, 2018, we had outstanding options to purchase an aggregate of 373,000 shares of common stock, with a weighted average exercise price of $20.60 per share, exercisable at prices ranging from $11.40 to $46.40 per share and warrants to purchase up to 936,381 shares of common stock, with a weighted average exercise price of $20.20 per share, at exercise prices ranging from $0.20 to $50.00 per share.

 

On March 29, 2019, as referenced above, we issued an aggregate of 36,399,870 shares of common stock, including shares of common stock underlying warrants. The sale of these shares of our common stock, including those underlying the warrants (assuming exercise thereof), is likely to have a material and adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.

 

In addition, we have previously agreed to register shares of common stock, and common stock underlying outstanding warrants and convertible debt in connection with private placement of our securities that are not being registered in this annual report. Our shares of common stock are thinly traded. Therefore, the resale of a large number of shares of common stock and common stock underlying warrants and convertible debt by the selling stockholders may adversely affect the market price of our common stock. 

 

Volatility in our common stock price may subject us to securities litigation.

 

Stock markets, in general, have experienced, and continue to experience, significant price and volume volatility, and the market price of our common stock may continue to be subject to similar market fluctuations unrelated to our operating performance or prospects. This increased volatility, coupled with depressed economic conditions, could continue to have a depressing effect on the market price of our common stock. The following factors, many of which are beyond our control, may influence our stock price:

 

· the status of our growth strategy including the development of new products with any proceeds we may be able to raise in the future;
· announcements of technological or competitive developments;
· regulatory developments affecting us, our customers or our competitors;
· announcements regarding patent or other intellectual property litigation or the issuance of patents to us or our competitors or updates with respect to the enforceability of patents or other intellectual property rights generally in the US or internationally;
· actual or anticipated fluctuations in our quarterly operating results;
· changes in financial estimates by securities research analysts;
· changes in the economic performance or market valuations of our competitors;
· additions or departures of our executive officers; and
· sales or perceived sales of additional shares of our common stock.

  

In addition, the securities markets have, from time to time, experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that are not related to the operating performance of particular companies. Any of these factors could result in large and sudden changes in the volume and trading price of our common stock and could cause our stockholders to incur substantial losses. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a company’s securities, stockholders have often instituted securities class action litigation against that company. If we were involved in a class action suit or other securities litigation, it would divert the attention of our senior management, require us to incur significant expense and, whether or not adversely determined, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

We have a substantial number of convertible notes, warrants, options and preferred stock outstanding that could affect our price.

 

Due to a number of financings, we have a substantial number of shares that are subject to issuance pursuant to outstanding convertible debt, warrants and options. These conversion prices and exercise prices range from $0.20 to $50.00 per share of common stock. As of December 31, 2018, the number of shares of common stock subject to convertible notes, warrants, options and preferred stock were 999,641, 936,381, 373,000 and 127,551, respectively. The issuance of common stock pursuant to convertible notes, warrants, options and preferred stock at conversion or exercise prices less than market prices may have the effect of limiting an increase in market price of our common stock until all of these underling shares have been issued.

 

We have a number of shares of common stock subject to registration rights.

 

Due to a number of financings, we have contractually agreed to register with the Commission shares of common stock, and common stock underlying outstanding warrants and convertible debt in connection with private placements of our securities. The potential resale at the same time of a large number of shares of common stock and common stock underlying warrants and convertible debt by the selling stockholders may adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

 

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Sales of additional shares of our common stock could cause the price of our common stock to decline.

 

Sales of substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, or the availability of such shares for sale, by us or others, including the issuance of common stock upon exercise of outstanding options and warrants, could adversely affect the price of our common stock. We and our directors and officers may sell shares into the market, which could adversely affect the market price of shares of our common stock.

 

The rights of the holders of common stock may be impaired by the potential issuance of preferred stock.

 

Our certificate of incorporation gives our board of directors the right to create new series of preferred stock. As a result, the board of directors may, without stockholder approval, issue preferred stock with voting, dividend, conversion, liquidation or other rights which could adversely affect the voting power and equity interest of the holders of common stock. Preferred stock, which could be issued with the right to more than one vote per share, could be utilized as a method of discouraging, delaying or preventing a change of control. The possible impact on takeover attempts could adversely affect the price of our common stock. Although we have no present intention to issue any shares of preferred stock or to create a series of preferred stock, we may issue such shares in the future.  

 

The requirements of being a public company may strain our resources, divert management’s attention and affect our ability to attract and retain qualified board members.

 

We are a public company and subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Exchange Act requires, among other things, that we file annual, quarterly and current reports with respect to our business and financial condition. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls for financial reporting. For example, Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires that our management report on the effectiveness of our internal controls structure and procedures for financial reporting. Section 404 compliance may divert internal resources and will take a significant amount of time and effort to complete. If we fail to maintain compliance under Section 404, or if in the future management determines that our internal control over financial reporting are not effective as defined under Section 404, we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the NYSE American should we in the future be listed on this market, the Commission, or other regulatory authorities. Furthermore, investor perceptions of our company may suffer, and this could cause a decline in the market price of our common stock. Any failure of our internal controls could have a material adverse effect on our stated results of operations and harm our reputation. If we are unable to implement these changes effectively or efficiently, it could harm our operations, financial reporting or financial results and could result in an adverse opinion on internal controls from our independent auditors. We may need to hire a number of additional employees with public accounting and disclosure experience in order to meet our ongoing obligations as a public company, particularly if we become fully subject to Section 404 and its auditor attestation requirements, which will increase costs. Our management team and other personnel will need to devote a substantial amount of time to new compliance initiatives and to meeting the obligations that are associated with being a public company, which may divert attention from other business concerns, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

If we fail to comply with the rules under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 related to accounting controls and procedures, or if we discover material weaknesses and deficiencies in our internal control and accounting procedures, our stock price could decline significantly and raising capital could be more difficult.

 

If we fail to comply with the rules under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 related to disclosure controls and procedures, or, if we discover material weaknesses and other deficiencies in our internal control and accounting procedures, our stock price could decline significantly and raising capital could be more difficult. Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires annual management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. If material weaknesses or significant deficiencies are discovered or if we otherwise fail to achieve and maintain the adequacy of our internal control, we may not be able to ensure that we can conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal controls over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Moreover, effective internal controls are necessary for us to produce reliable financial reports and are important to helping prevent financial fraud. If we cannot provide reliable financial reports or prevent fraud, our business and operating results could be harmed, investors could lose confidence in our reported financial information, and the trading price of our common stock could drop significantly.

 

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports about our business, or if they change their recommendations regarding our stock adversely, our stock price and trading volume could decline.

 

The trading market for our common stock will be influenced by the research and reports that industry or securities analysts publish about us or our business. Our research coverage by industry and financial analysts is currently limited. Even if our analyst coverage increases, if one or more of the analysts who cover us downgrade our stock, our stock price would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts cease coverage of our company or fail to regularly publish reports on us, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which in turn could cause our stock price or trading volume to decline.

 

The elimination of monetary liability against our directors, officers and employees under law and the existence of indemnification rights for or obligations to our directors, officers and employees may result in substantial expenditures by us and may discourage lawsuits against our directors, officers and employees. 

 

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Our certificate of incorporation contains a provision permitting us to eliminate the personal liability of our directors to us and our stockholders for damages for the breach of a fiduciary duty as a director or officer to the extent provided by Delaware law. We may also have contractual indemnification obligations under any future employment agreements with our officers. The foregoing indemnification obligations could result in us incurring substantial expenditures to cover the cost of settlement or damage awards against directors and officers, which we may be unable to recoup. These provisions and the resulting costs may also discourage us from bringing a lawsuit against directors and officers for breaches of their fiduciary duties, and may similarly discourage the filing of derivative litigation by our stockholders against our directors and officers even though such actions, if successful, might otherwise benefit us and our stockholders. 

 

We do not anticipate paying dividends on our common stock and, accordingly, stockholders must rely on stock appreciation for any return on their investment.

 

We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our common stock and do not expect to do so in the foreseeable future. The declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on various factors, including our operating results, financial condition, future prospects and any other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors. You should not rely on an investment in our company if you require dividend income from your investment in our company. The success of your investment will likely depend entirely upon any future appreciation of the market price of our common stock, which is uncertain and unpredictable. There is no guarantee that our common stock will appreciate in value.

 

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

 

Our corporate headquarters utilize 12,396 square foot of leased office, engineering, laboratory, and warehouse space in Fremont, California. Our headquarter lease commenced on November 1, 2012 and expires on June 30, 2019. The annual base rent under the lease, payable on a monthly basis, increases during the term of the lease from approximately $138,000 during the first year to approximately $157,000 during the final year. The lease also provides for one option to renew for a term of five years.

 

In addition, we lease 43,062 square-feet of other space domestically that includes office, engineering, laboratory and warehouse space in both California and Connecticut. The annual base rent under these leases, payable on a monthly basis, is approximately 1,032,000 during 2019. These leases expire between May 2018 and January 2028.

 

We also lease facilities internationally. In September, 2010, our wholly-owned subsidiary, DPL, entered into a fifteen-year lease for its 25,000 square-foot facility in Salisbury, United Kingdom, where it designs, develops, manufactures, markets and distributes commercial and military power products for the European market. Sales and service support staff for its European network of distributors are located within the building together with other functions, such as engineering and administration. DPL’s rent expense is approximately $13,000 per month, and DPL has the option to cancel the lease after ten years. Further, in June 2011, Enertec entered into a ten-year lease for its 32,900 square-foot facility in Karmiel, Israel, where it manufactures specialized electronic systems for the Israel military market. Enertec’s rent expense is approximately $20,000 per month, 

 

We currently anticipate that the current leased space will be sufficient to support our current and foreseen future needs.

 

 

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

On July 31, 2018 a stockholder derivative complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California against the Company as the nominal defendant, as well as its current directors and a former director styled Ethan Young and Greg Young, Derivatively on Behalf of Nominal Defendant, DPW Holdings, Inc. v. Milton C. Ault, III, Amos Kohn, William B. Horne, Jeff Bentz, Mordechai Rosenberg, Robert O. Smith, and Kristine Ault and DPW Holdings, Inc. , as the nominal defendant (Case No. 18-cv-6587) (the “Complaint”). No hearings have been scheduled as of the date hereof.

 

The Complaint alleges violations of state law and breaches of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment and gross mismanagement by the individual defendants as, in the view of the plaintiffs, we had entered into poorly advised loan transactions and related party transactions. We believe that these claims are without merit and intend to vigorously defend them. We moved to dismiss the Complaint and on February 25, 2019, the Court granted the motion to dismiss but granted plaintiffs leave to amend their Complaint.  On March 11, 2019, plaintiffs filed their amended complaint asserting violations of breaches of fiduciary duties and unjust enrichment claims based on the previously pled transactions. On March 25, 2019, we filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint.  The motion to dismiss is returnable before the Court on May 6, 2019.

 

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Based on our assessment of the facts underlying the claims, the uncertainty of litigation, and the preliminary stage of the case, we cannot estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss that may result from this action. However, an unfavorable outcome may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

On November 28, 2018, Blockchain Mining Supply and Services, Ltd , a vendor who sold computers to our subsidiary, filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and our subsidiary, Super Crypto Mining, Inc. (Case No. 18-cv-11099). The Complaint asserted claims for breach of contract and promissory estoppel against the us and our subsidiary arising from the subsidiary’s failure to satisfy a purchase agreement.  The Complaint seeks damages in the amount of $1,388,495.

 

On February 4, 2019, pursuant to the Court’s Rules, we requested a pre-motion Conference with the Court.  The time to file our motion to dismiss is stayed until the Court’ holds the pre-motion Conference, which has not yet been scheduled by the Court.

 

Based on the our assessment of the facts underlying the claims, the uncertainty of litigation, and the preliminary stage of the case, we cannot estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss that may result from this action. However, we have established a reserve in the amount of the unpaid portion of the purchase agreement. An unfavorable outcome may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

Not applicable.

 

 

PART II

 

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Market Information

 

Our common stock is listed on the NYSE American under the symbol DPW. The following table sets forth our high and low sale prices per share of our common stock as reported by www.nasdaq.com on the NYSE American through April 12, 2019 and for each quarter for the past two fiscal years.

 

 

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2017
    High   Low
First Quarter   $35.00   $10.00
Second Quarter   $21.00   $8.00
Third Quarter   $19.20   $10.00
Fourth Quarter   $119.00   $10.20
First Quarter  of 2018   $72.00   $15.20

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018
    High   Low
First Quarter   $72.00   $15.20
Second Quarter   $30.00   $9.80
Third Quarter   $13.4   $7.80
Fourth Quarter   $8.80   $1.80
First Quarter  of 2018   $3.20   $0.28
Second Quarter of 2018 through April 10, 2019 $0.34   $0.24

 

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On April 12, 2018, the last sales price per share of our common stock was $0.28.

 

Record Holders

 

As of April 12, 2019, 23,189,615 shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding and were owned by approximately 69 holders of record. A number of holders of our common stock are “street name” or beneficial holders whose shares of record are held by banks, brokers, and other financial institutions.

 

Dividend Policy

 

We have not declared or paid any cash dividends since our inception, and we do not intend to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. The declaration of dividends in the future, if any, will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon our earnings, capital requirements, and financial position.

 

Equity Compensation Information

 

The following table summarizes information about our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2018.

 

    Number of Shares           Number of Options
    of Common Stock     Weighted-     Remaining Available for
    to be Issued     Average     Future Issuance Under
    upon Exercise     Exercise Price     Equity Compensation Plans
    of Outstanding     of Outstanding     (excluding securities
    Options     Options     reflected in column (a))
Plan Category   (a)     (b)     (c)
Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders (1)     388,873     $ 20.3847     $ 507,789

  

(1) Includes warrants to purchase 15,873 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.20 per share of common stock that were issued to Mr. Kohn and approved the Company’s stockholders in December 2017 and options to purchase 199,875 shares of common stock at an average exercise price of $26.09 per share of common stock that were issued to the Company’s officers and directors and approved the Company’s stockholders in December 2017 and 2018.

 

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

 

On October 11, 2018, we entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with a certain institutional investor providing for the issuance of (i) an Original Issue Discount Promissory Note in the principal face amount of $565,000 due December 8, 2018, for a purchase price of $510,000, and (ii) 20,000 shares of common stock to be issued by the Company.

 

During October 2018, in accordance with the terms of 12% term promissory notes in the principal face amount of $789,473, the Company issued 22,500 shares of its common stock to the investors.

 

These securities were sold in reliance upon the exemption provided by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and the safe harbor of Rule 506 under Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities

 

The Company repurchased 2,750 shares of its common stock for $57,748 during the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.

 

As a Smaller Reporting Company, we are electing scaled disclosure reporting obligations and therefore are not required to provide the information requested by this Item.

 

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include statements regarding, among others, (a) our expectations about possible business combinations, (b) our growth strategies, (c) our future financing plans, and (d) our anticipated needs for working capital. Forward-looking statements, which involve assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “approximate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “budget,” “could,” “forecast,” “might,” “predict,” “shall” or “project,” or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. This information may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements. These statements may be found in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, potential target businesses, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, by their nature, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, without limitation, the risks outlined under “Risk Factors” in this 10-K, changes in local, regional, national or global political, economic, business, competitive, market (supply and demand) and regulatory conditions and the following:

 

· Adverse economic conditions;
· Our ability to effectively execute our business plan;

· Inability to raise sufficient additional capital to operate our business;

· Our ability to manage our expansion, growth and operating expenses;

· Our ability to evaluate and measure our business, prospects and performance metrics;

· Our ability to compete and succeed in highly competitive and evolving industries;

· Our ability to respond and adapt to changes in technology and customer behavior;

· Our ability to protect our intellectual property and to develop, maintain and enhance a strong brand; and

· Other specific risks referred to in the section entitled “ Risk Factors ”.

 

We caution you therefore that you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements as statements of historical fact or as guarantees or assurances of future performance. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or other information contained herein unless required by law.

 

Information regarding market and industry statistics contained in this Annual Report is included based on information available to us that we believe is accurate. It is generally based on academic and other publications that are not produced for purposes of securities offerings or economic analysis. Forecasts and other forward-looking information obtained from these sources are subject to the same qualifications and the additional uncertainties accompanying any estimates of future market size, revenue and market acceptance of products and services. Except as required by U.S. federal securities laws, we have no obligation to update forward-looking information to reflect actual results or changes in assumptions or other factors that could affect those statements. See the section entitled “ Risk Factors ” for a more detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that may have an impact on our future results.

 

The amounts reported within our “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” are in U.S. dollars in thousands, except shares and per share data.

 

In this quarterly report, the “Company,” “DPW Holdings,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to DPW Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Coolisys Technologies, Inc., Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC, Digital Power Lending, LLC, Super Crypto Mining, Inc., Digital Power Limited, Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. and our majority owned subsidiaries, Microphase Corporation and I.AM, LLC.

 

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Recent Developments

 

On February 27, 2018, we entered into a Sales Agreement with H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC (“ HCW ”) to sell shares of our common stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $50 million from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “ HWC ATM Offering ”) under which HCW acted as sales agent. The offer and sale of our common stock was made pursuant to our effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the HCW ATM Offering, dated February 27, 2018. The HCW ATM Offering was terminated effective September 23, 2018.

 

On October 15, 2018, we entered into an At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement with Wilson-Davis & Co., Inc., (“ WDCO ”) as sales agent to sell shares of our common stock, having an aggregate offering price of up to $25 million from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “ WDCO ATM Offering ”). The offer and sale of our common stock was made pursuant to the Company’s effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the ATM Offering, dated October 15, 2018. Subject to the terms and conditions of the At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement, WDCO used commercially reasonable efforts to sell shares of our common stock, based upon our instructions, consistent with its normal trading and sales practices and applicable state and federal laws, rules and regulations and rules of the NYSE American. We paid to WDCO a commission in an amount equal to 4.0% of the gross sales price per share of common stock sold through the WDCO ATM Offering as sales agent under the At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement. The WDCO ATM Offering was terminated effective April 1, 2019.

 

GENERAL

 

We are a growth company seeking to increase our revenues through acquisitions. Our strategy reflects our management and Board’s current philosophy which we began implementing upon the change in control that was completed on September 22, 2016. Our acquisition and development target strategy include companies that have developed a “new way of doing business” in mature, well-developed industries experiencing changes due to new technology; companies that may become profitable or more profitable through efficiency and reduction of costs; companies that are related to our core business in the commercial and defense industries; and companies that will enhance our overall revenues. It is our goal to substantially increase our gross revenues in the near future.

 

We were originally a solution-driven organization that designed, developed, manufactured and sold high-grade customized and flexible power system solutions for the medical, military, telecom and industrial markets. Although we intend to seek growth through acquisitions, we will continue to focus on high-grade and custom product designs for the commercial, medical and military/defense markets, where customers demand high density, high efficiency and ruggedized products to meet the harshest and/or military mission critical operating conditions.

 

We have operations located in Europe through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Digital Power Limited (“ DP Limited ”), Salisbury, England, which operates under the brand name of “Gresham Power Electronics” (“ Gresham ”). DP Limited designs, manufactures and sells power products and system solutions mainly for the European marketplace, including power conversion, power distribution equipment, DC/AC (Direct Current/Active Current) inverters and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) products. Our European defense business is specialized in the field of naval power distribution products.

 

On November 30, 2016, DPW Holdings formed Digital Power Lending, LLC (“ DP Lending ”), a wholly-owned subsidiary. DP Lending is engaged in providing commercial loans to companies throughout the United States to provide them with operating capital to finance the growth of their businesses. The loans will primarily be short-term, ranging from six to twelve months, but may be of longer duration.

 

On June 2, 2017, DPW Holdings purchased 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation (“ Microphase ”). Microphase is a design-to-manufacture original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, industry leader delivering world-class radio frequency (“ RF ”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“ DLVA ”) to the military, aerospace and telecommunications industries. Microphase is headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut.

 

On April 25, 2017, DPW Holdings formed Coolisys Technologies, Inc. (“ Coolisys ”), a wholly-owned subsidiary. The Company intends to operate its existing businesses in the customized and flexible power system solutions for the medical, military, telecom and industrial markets, other than the European markets which are primarily served by DP Limited, in Coolisys.

 

Further, on September 1, 2017, Coolisys acquired all of the outstanding membership interests in Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC, a California limited liability company (“ Power-Plus ”). Power-Plus is an industrial distributor of value added power supply solutions, UPS systems, fans, filters, line cords, and other power-related components. In addition to its current business, Power-Plus will serve as an extended sales organization for the Company’s overall flexible power system solutions.

 

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On December 31, 2017, Coolisys entered into a share purchase agreement with Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. (“ MICT ”), a Delaware corporation, Enertec Management Ltd., an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of MICT (“ EML ”), and Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“ Enertec ”), an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of EML, pursuant to which Coolisys acquired Enertec. Enertec is Israel’s largest private manufacturer of specialized electronic systems for the military market. On May 23, 2018, Coolisys acquired Enertec for an aggregate cash purchase price of $4,850,099.

 

On May 23, 2018, DP Lending entered into and closed a securities purchase agreement to acquire 98.1% of I.AM, Inc. (“ I.AM ”), for a purchase price of $981. I.AM owns and operates the Prep Kitchen brand restaurants located in the San Diego area. I.AM owed DP Lending $1,715,330 in outstanding principal, pursuant to a loan and security agreement, between I.AM and DP Lending, that I.AM used to acquire the restaurants. The purchase agreement provides that, as I.AM repays the outstanding loan to DP Lending in accordance with the loan agreement, DP Lending will on a pro rata basis transfer shares of common stock of I.AM to David J. Krause, up to an aggregate of 471 shares.

 

We are a Delaware corporation with our corporate office located at 201 Shipyard Way, Suite E, Newport Beach, California 92663. Our phone number is 510-657-2635 and our website address is www.dpwholdings.com.

 

Results of Operations

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018 AND 2017

 

The following table summarizes the results of our operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

 

    For the Years Ended  
    December 31,  
    2018     2017  
             
Revenue   $ 17,762,217     $ 10,000,749  
Revenue, cryptocurrency mining     1,675,549        
Revenue, related party     3,907,280       173,751  
Revenue, restaurant operations     3,462,140        
Revenue, lending activities     347,033        
Total revenue     27,154,219       10,174,500  
Cost of revenue     21,774,658       6,325,027  
Gross profit     5,379,561       3,849,473  
Total operating expenses     24,985,017       9,832,518  
                 
Loss from operations     (19,605,456 )     (5,983,045 )
Interest expense     (13,453,344 )     (4,990,397 )
Loss before income taxes     (33,058,800 )     (10,973,442 )
Income tax benefit     76,599       78,393  
Net loss     (32,982,201 )     (10,895,049 )
Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest     748,320       278,818  
Net loss attributable to DPW Holdings   $ (32,233,881 )   $ (10,616,231 )
Preferred deemed dividends on Series B and Series C Preferred Stock     (108,049 )     (584,182 )
Preferred dividends on Series C Preferred Stock           (54,059 )
Net loss available to common stockholders   $ (32,341,930 )   $ (11,254,472 )
                 
Basic and diluted net loss per common share   $ (11.15 )   $ (18.05 )
                 
Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding     2,899,888       623,583  
                 
Comprehensive Loss                
Loss available to common stockholders   $ (32,341,930 )   $ (11,254,472 )
Other comprehensive income (loss)                
Foreign currency translation adjustment     (377,823 )     152,078  
Net unrealized (loss) gain on securities available-for-sale     (8,027,746 )     5,171,743  
Other comprehensive income (loss)     (8,405,569 )     5,323,821  
Total Comprehensive loss   $ (40,747,499 )   $ (5,930,651 )
                 

   

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Revenues

 

Our revenues increased by $16,979,719 or 166.9% to $27,154,219 for the year ended December 31, 2018, from $10,174,500 for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase in revenue was primarily due to our four acquisitions completed during 2017 and 2018. Revenues generated by these four acquisitions during the year ended December 31, 2018, represented $13,174,615 of our increase in revenues. Excluding the increase in revenues that were generated by our recent acquisitions, the Company generated revenues of $13,979,604, which represented an increase of $7,309,882. As discussed below, the increase of $7,309,882 from the year ended December 31, 2017, was primarily due to our cryptocurrency mining operations and on revenues generated from a related-party from the manufacture of the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“ MLSE ”) plasma-laser system.

 

Revenues, cryptocurrency mining

 

In January 2018, we formed Digital Farms. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we recognized $1,675,549 of revenues generated by Digital Farms.

 

Revenues, related party

 

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, we recognized $3,907,280 and $173,751, respectively, in revenues resulting from our relationship with MTIX, a related party. In March 2017, the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million purchase order by MTIX to manufacture, install and service the MLSE plasma-laser system.

 

Gross Margins

 

Gross margins decreased to 19.8% for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 37.8% for the year ended December 31, 2017. The decrease in gross margins was partially attributable to the lower margin revenue of $3,907,280 from MTIX, a related party, with gross margins of 21.5% combined with negative margins of (202.7%) on revenues of $1,675,549 at Digital Farms. The negative gross margins at Digital Farms are attributed to monthly recurring fixed costs at our colocation facilities which temporarily exceed the revenues from our mining operations while we place our miners in service. If we had not recognized revenue, and the related cost of revenue, from Digital Farms and our contract with MTIX, then our adjusted gross margins for the year ended December 31, 2018 would have been 36.8%. The decrease in gross margins from 37.8% to 36.8% is mainly attributable to an increase in costs of our commercial products sold in our U.S. operations, which historically have had much greater gross margins, offset by higher gross margins related to restaurant operations.

 

Engineering and Product Development

 

Engineering and product development expenses increased by $310,793 to $1,430,538 for the year ended December 31, 2018 from $1,119,745 for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase is primarily attributed to our acquisitions of Microphase and Enertec. The closing of the acquisitions of Microphase and Enertec occurred on June 2, 2017 and May 23, 2018, respectively. Enertec incurred engineering and product development expenses for the period May 23, 2018 to December 31, 2018 of $135,964. During the prior-year period, Microphase reported $293,775 in engineering and product development expenses as opposed to $466,575 during the year ended December 31, 2018. In aggregate, these acquisitions resulted an increase in engineering and product development expenses of $308,764.

 

Selling and Marketing

 

Selling and marketing expenses were $3,010,790 for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $1,721,050 for the year ended December 31, 2017, an increase of $1,289,740. Our acquisition of Microphase, Power-Plus, Enertec and I.AM accounted for $1,111,987, of the increase in selling and marketing expenses. The remaining increase of $177,753 is attributed to an increase in personnel costs directly attributed to sales and marketing personnel at our U.S. and UK based operations. Throughout the quarter ended March 31, 2017, we augmented our sales and marketing team in the U.S. with the addition of a Vice President of Business Development and two regional sales managers. The increase in selling and marketing expenses is partially attributed to the increase in salaries and benefits and travel related costs for these three new sales and marketing positions. Further, during December 2017, we hired a Sales Director at our UK operations.

 

General and Administrative

 

General and administrative expenses were $19,842,378 for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $6,991,723 for the year ended December 31, 2017, an increase of $12,850,655. Our acquisitions of Microphase, Enertec and I.AM accounted for $3,929,639 of the increase in general and administrative expenses. The adjusted increase of $8,921,016 from the comparative prior period was mainly due to higher stock-based compensation expenses, an increase in legal and audit costs, an increase in investor relationship costs and hiring of additional consultants to build an infrastructure in anticipation of our future growth and the increase in cost attributed to the hiring of a new chief financial officer. The remaining increase in general and administrative expenses is due to various costs, none of which are significant individually.

 

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·

In aggregate, we incurred $4,719,265 of stock-based compensation during the year ended December 31, 2018. Of this amount, $2,951,978 was from issuances of equity-based awards pursuant to our Plans and $1,767,287 was from stock, options and warrants which were issued outside the Plans. It has been our policy to allocate the majority of stock-based compensation to general and administrative expense. During the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, and inclusive of equity-based awards issued outside the Plans, we recorded $4,688,819 and $1,754,939, respectively, of stock-based compensation in general and administrative expense. 

 

· We experienced an aggregate increase of $135,017 in audit and legal fees due to an overall increase in the operations conducted and the level of complexity and significant number of the transactions entered into during the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

· Beginning during the quarter ended December 31, 2016, we spent significant effort on expanding our investor base and on hiring additional consultants to assist building an infrastructure to support our anticipated growth. These efforts were continued during the year ended December 31, 2018 and resulted in an increase of $331,995 in costs attributed to investor relations and other consulting fees.

 

· During January 2018 we hired a new Chief Financial Officer and in September 2017 we hired a senior executive to assist in management at Coolisys. These two hires resulted in an overall increase in payroll expense of approximately $395,000 during the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

· Finally, we recently established Digital Farms, our digital currency blockchain mining subsidiary, and DP Lending, our commercial lending subsidiary. During the year ended December 31, 2018, general and administrative costs attributed to these subsidiaries were $2,981,527.

 

Interest (expense) income, net

 

Interest expense was $13,453,344 for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $4,990,397 for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2018 is primarily related to the amortization of debt discount, in the aggregate amount of $11,191,056 resulting from original issue discount on the issuance of warrants in conjunction with the sale of debt instruments in the aggregate amount of $25,443,760. During the year ended December 31, 2018, as a result of these issuances, non-cash interest expense of $11,191,056 was recorded from the amortization of debt discount and debt financing costs. The remaining increase in interest expense was due to an increase in the amount of the Company’s total borrowings and which was primarily offset by interest income and the accretion of original issue discount pursuant to the Loan and Security Agreement entered into on September 6, 2017, between the Company and AVLP (“AVLP Loan Agreement”) of $2,034,358.

 

Operating Loss

 

The Company recorded an operating loss of $19,605,456 for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to an operating loss of $5,983,045 for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase in operating loss is mostly attributable from the increase of general and administrative expenses.

 

Net Loss

 

For the foregoing reasons, our net loss for the year ended December 31, 2018, was $32,982,201 compared to a net loss of $10,895,049 for the year ended December 31, 2017. After taking into consideration the loss attributable to the non-controlling interest of the minority stockholders of Microphase of $430,265 and $278,818 and preferred dividends of $108,049 and $638,241 during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, the net loss available to common stockholders during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, was $32,341,930 and $11,254,472, respectively.

 

As reflected in our consolidated statement of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, our reported net loss is comprised of non-cash charges of $16,812,868 and $6,334,058, respectively. A summary of these non-cash charges is as follows: 

 

    For the Years Ended  
    December 31,  
    2018     2017  
Interest expense – debt discount   $ 11,191,056     $ 4,688,630  
Stock-based compensation     4,719,266       1,831,435  
Depreciation and amortization     2,906,905       254,006  
Interest expense on conversion of promissory notes to common stock           13,333  
Accretion of original issue discount on notes receivable – related party     (2,004,358 )     (453,346 )
Non-cash items included in net loss   $ 16,812,868     $ 6,334,058  

  

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Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

Other comprehensive income (loss) was ($8,405,569) and $5,323,821, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. Other comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2018, which decreased our equity, reflects the impact of the weakening of the British Pound on the equity of DP Limited combined with unrealized losses in our investments in marketable securities, primarily in the warrants that we received as a result of our investment in AVLP, a related party. During the year ended December 31, 2017, unrealized gains in our investment in the AVLP warrants was the principal component of other comprehensive income.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

On December 31, 2018, we had cash and cash equivalents of $902,329. This compares with cash and cash equivalents of $1,478,147 at December 31, 2017. The decrease in cash and cash equivalents was primarily due to cash provided by financing activities being slightly less than the amount of cash used in operating and investing activities.

 

Net cash used in operating activities totaled $10,422,404 for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to net cash used by operating activities of $4,116,564 for the year ended December 31, 2017. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the increase in net cash used in operating activities compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 was mainly due to the net loss for the year ended December 31, 2018 of $32,982,201. The net loss was partially offset by a number of non-cash charges, the amortization of debt discount of $11,191,055 and stock-based compensation of $4,719,266, an increase in accounts receivable, related party of $3,713,903 and accounts payable and accrued expenses of $7,797,395 and decreases in our accounts receivable of $2,754,631.

 

Net cash used in investing activities was $20,618,928 for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $8,673,963 of net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase of the net usage of cash from investing activities was primarily attributed to the purchase of property and equipment at Digital Farms, the investment in AVLP, the acquisition of Enertec and investments in debt and equity securities.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities was $30,537,688 and $13,223,500 for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The financing activities primarily related to the sale of 1,640,935 shares of common stock through a registered direct offering and from our ATM Offering for gross proceeds of $23,884,470, net proceeds from the Company’s debt financings and from advances of future receipts of $28,794,037 which was offset by payments on debt instruments of $20,974,155 and proceeds from the exercise of options and warrants of $964,966.

 

Historically, we have financed our operations principally through issuances of convertible debt, promissory notes and equity securities. During 2018, as reflected below, we continued to successfully obtain additional equity and debt financing and in restructuring existing debt.

 

· On January 23, 2018, we entered into a securities purchase agreement with an institutional investor to sell, for an aggregate purchase price of $1,000,000, a 10% senior convertible promissory note (the “Note”) with an aggregate principal face amount of $1,250,000, a warrant to purchase an aggregate of 31,250 shares of our common stock and 27,174 shares of our common stock. The transactions contemplated by the securities purchase agreement closed on February 8, 2018. The Note is convertible into 31,250 shares of our common stock, a conversion price of $40.00 per share, subject to adjustment. The exercise price of the warrant to purchase 31,250 shares of our common stock is $44.00 per share, subject to adjustment. On February 9, 2018, in addition to the 543,478 shares of common stock provided for pursuant to the securities purchase agreement, we issued to the investor an aggregate of 34,597 shares of our common stock upon the conversion of the entire outstanding principal and accrued interest on the Note of $1,383,884.

 

· On January 25, 2018, we issued two 5% promissory notes, each in the principal face amount of $2,500,000 for an aggregate debt of $5,000,000 to two institutional investors. The proceeds from the two promissory notes was used to purchase 1,000 Antminer S9s manufactured by Bitmain Technologies, Inc. in connection with our mining operations. We received delivery of the Miners on February 1, 2018. On March 27, 2018, we paid the principal and accrued interest on each of the 5% promissory notes.

 

· On February 20, 2018, we issued a promissory note in the principal face amount of $900,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an original issue discount (“OID”) of $150,000 resulting in net proceeds of $750,000. The principal and OID on this note was due and payable on March 22, 2018. On March 23, 2018, we entered into a new promissory note in the principal amount of $1,750,000 for a term of two months, subject to our ability to prepay within one month. The interest rate payable on this new promissory note was twenty percent per thirty calendar days, payable in a lump sum on the maturity date. We also issued to the lender a warrant to purchase 62,500 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $23.00 per share, pursuant to a consulting agreement. The principal amount of the new promissory note consisted of net proceeds of $1,000,000 and the cancellation of the principal of $750,000 from the February 20, 2018 promissory note. The interest on the February 20, 2018 note in the amount of $150,000 was paid to the lender prior to entering into the new promissory note. On April 23, 2018, we paid the entire outstanding principal and accrued interest on the new promissory note of $2,100,000.

 

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· On February 26, 2018, we issued a 10% promissory note in the principal face amount of $330,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $30,000 resulting in net proceeds to us of $300,000. The principal and accrued interest on this note was due and payable on April 12, 2018, subject to a 30-day extension available to us. This 10% promissory note was paid on April 27, 2018.

 

· On February 27, 2018, we entered into a Sales Agreement with H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC (“HCW”) to sell shares of common stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $50 million (the “Shares”) from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “HCW ATM Offering”) under which HCW acted as sales agent. The offer and sale of the Shares was made pursuant to our effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the HCW ATM Offering, dated February 27, 2018. The HCW ATM Offering was terminated effective September 23, 2018.

 

· On March 23, 2018, we entered into a securities purchase agreement to sell and issue a 12% promissory note and a warrant to purchase 22,500 shares of common stock to an accredited investor. The promissory note was issued with a 10% OID. The promissory note is in the principal amount of $1,000,000 and was sold for $900,000, bears interest at 12% simple interest on the principal amount, and is due on June 22, 2018. Interest only payments are due, in arrears, on a monthly basis commencing on April 23, 2018. The exercise price of the warrant is $23.00 per share. The promissory note is unsecured by any of our assets but is guaranteed by our Chief Executive Officer.

 

· On March 27, 2018, we issued a 10% promissory note in the principal face amount of $200,000 to an accredited investor. The principal and accrued interest on this note was due and payable on March 29, 2018. Between March 29 and April 24, 2018, we paid the entire outstanding principal on this 10% promissory note of $200,000.

 

· On April 16, 2018, we entered into securities purchase agreements with three institutional investors to sell, for an aggregate purchase price of $1,550,000, 12% secured convertible promissory notes (“Convertible Notes”) with an aggregate principal face amount of $1,722,222, warrants to purchase an aggregate of 49,679 shares of our common stock, and an aggregate of 10,046 shares of our common stock. The Convertible Notes bear simple interest at 12% on the principal amount with a guarantee of interest during the initial six months in the amount of $103,333. Beginning on May 16, 2018, we were required to make six monthly cash payments in the aggregate amount of $304,259 until the Convertible Notes are satisfied in full, which was to occur on October 16, 2018. On August 31, 2018, the Company made its final payment and in aggregate paid principal and accrued interest of $1,722,222 and $103,333, respectively, on the 12% April 2018 Convertible Notes. The warrants entitle the holders to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 49,679 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $26.00 per share for a period of five years subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations.

 

· On May 15, 2018, we entered into securities purchase agreements with certain investors for the sale and issuance of an aggregate of 384,589 shares of our Class A common stock, and five-year warrants to purchase such number of shares of common stock equal to the shares of common stock purchased by the investors. We received aggregate consideration of $5,999,584, consisting of cash and the cancellation of short-term advances of $3,225,000 and $2,774,584, respectively. These securities were issued pursuant to our registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (File No. 333-222132) which became effective on January 11, 2018.

 

· On May 15, 2018, we entered into a securities purchase agreement with an institutional investor providing for the issuance of (i) a 10% senior secured convertible promissory note (the “10% Convertible Note”) with a principal face amount of $6,000,000, (ii) a five-year warrant to purchase 55,556 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Series A Warrant Shares”) at an exercise price of $27.00 (the “Series A Warrant”), (iii) a five-year warrant to purchase 86,207 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Series B Warrant Shares” and with the Series A Warrant Shares, the “Warrant Shares”) at an exercise price of $17.40 per share (the “Series B Warrant” and together with the Series A Warrant, the “Warrants”), and (iv) 17,241 shares of our common stock. Initially, the 10% Convertible Note was convertible into our common stock at $15.00 per share, but could only be converted if an event of default thereunder had occurred and not been cured on a timely basis. Pursuant to an amendment dated as of August 31, 2018, we reduced the conversion price to $8.00 from $15.00. Further, on September 25, 2018, we entered into an agreement to amend the maturity date on the 10% Convertible Note, pursuant to which amendment the amortization schedule of the 10% Convertible Note provides for 13 monthly payments in the amount of $309,193, and for the fourteenth payment to be in the amount of $1,011,427, plus accrued and unpaid interest. Each such amortization payment shall be made in cash or Bitcoin

 

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In connection with the financing, pursuant to an engagement agreement with Alliance Global Partners (“AGP”), a licensed broker-dealer with FINRA, we agreed to pay to AGP a cash fee, or placement agent fee, equal to 5% of the aggregate gross proceeds raised. Such fee was paid at the closing of the offering. In addition, AGP shall receive a cash fee equal to 5% of such cash exercise price proceeds received by us, payable within 48 hours of our receipt of any cash exercise price proceeds from the exercise of any warrants sold, provided that no such fee is due and payable hereunder in the event the warrants are not exercised for cash. AGP is also entitled to receive a warrant to purchase 7,500 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $20.00, which warrant shall be exercisable for 5-years via cashless exercise until registered and via cash thereafter.

 

· On July 2, 2018, we entered into a securities purchase agreement with an institutional investor providing for the issuance of (i) a second 10% senior secured convertible promissory note (the “Second 10% Convertible Note”) with a principal face amount of $1,000,000, which Second 10% Convertible Note was initially convertible into our common stock at $15.00 per share and (ii) an additional 20,000 of the Company’s common stock to be issued in connection with the 10% Convertible Note. Pursuant to an amendment dated as of August 31, 2018, we reduced the conversion price to $8.00 from $15.00. The Second 10% Convertible Note matures on January 1, 2019.

 

· On August 31, 2018, we entered into a securities purchase agreement with the institutional investor providing for the issuance of (i) a third 10% convertible note (the “Third 10% Convertible Note” and with the 10% Convertible Note and the Second 10% Convertible Note, the “10% Convertible Notes”) with a principal face amount of $2,000,000, which Third Convertible Note is convertible into 250,000 shares of our common stock at $8.00 per share and (ii) an additional 31,000 of our common stock. The shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the Third 10% Convertible Note have not yet been issued to the institutional investor. The Third 10% Convertible Note matures on February 15, 2019.

 

· On August 10, 2018, DP Lending issued a 12% promissory note in the principal amount of $550,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $50,000 resulting in net proceeds of $500,000. The principal and accrued interest on this note is due and payable on August 10, 2019.

 

· On August 16, 2018, we entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain institutional investors providing for the issuance of (i) secured promissory notes (the “Notes”) in the aggregate principal face amount of $1,212,000 due February 15, 2019, at an interest rate of eight percent (8%) per annum for which we received an aggregate of $1,010,000, and (ii) an aggregate of 20,000 shares of common stock to be issued by us, subject to approval of the NYSE American.

 

· On August 23, 2018, DP Lending issued a promissory note in the principal amount of $85,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $10,000 resulting in net proceeds of $75,000. The principal and accrued interest on this note was due and payable on September 24, 2018.

 

· On August 28, 2018, DP Lending issued a promissory note in the principal amount of $115,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $15,000 resulting in net proceeds of $100,000. The principal and accrued interest on this note was due and payable on September 14, 2018. This promissory note was paid on September 21, 2018.

 

· During September 2018, we issued to institutional investors 12% term promissory notes in the principal face amount of $789,473, with an interest rate of 12% for a purchase price of $749,999. The outstanding principal face amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest, was due by December 31, 2018, or as otherwise provided in accordance with the terms set forth therein. In accordance with the notes, we also agreed to issue 22,500 shares of our common stock to the investors. The notes contain standard and customary events of default.

 

· On October 11, 2018, we entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with a certain institutional investor providing for the issuance of (i) an Original Issue Discount Promissory Note in the principal face amount of $565,000 due December 8, 2018, for a purchase price of $510,000, and (ii) 20,000 shares of common stock to be issued by the Company, subject to approval of the NYSE American.

 

· On October 15, 2018, we entered into an At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement with Wilson-Davis & Co., Inc. (“WDCO”) to sell shares of our common stock, having an aggregate offering price of up to $25 million from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “WDCO ATM Offering”) under which WDCO acts as sales agent. The offer and sale of the shares through the WDCO ATM Offering was made pursuant to our effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the WDCO ATM Offering, dated October 15, 2018.

 

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We expect to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future and will be required to raise additional capital to continue to support our working capital requirements. We believe that the MLSE purchase order contract of $50 million and revenue generated by Digital Farms will generate meaningful revenue and corresponding cash in 2019. In addition, we have been successful over the last 12 months in raising capital to support our working capital requirements. We anticipate that we will continue to raise capital through public and private equity offerings, debt financings, or other means. If we are unable to secure additional capital, we may be required to curtail our current operations and take additional measures to reduce costs expenses, including reducing our workforce, eliminating outside consultants, ceasing or reducing our due diligence of potential future acquisitions, including the associated legal fees, in order to conserve cash in order to sustain operations and meet our obligations.

 

Based on the above, these matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

See Note 3, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies, to the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018 included in this Annual Report.

 

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Because we are a smaller reporting company, this section is not applicable

 

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

  

The financial statements required by this Item 8 are included in this Annual Report following Item 16 hereof. As a smaller reporting company, we are not required to provide supplementary financial information.

 

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

 

Not applicable

 

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

As of December 31, 2018, we have carried out an evaluation, under the supervision of, and with the participation of, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ Exchange Act ”). We have established disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Based upon that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, with the assistance of other members of the Company's management, have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this annual report and has determined that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective due to certain material weaknesses as described herein.

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act). Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

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Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. In making this assessment, our management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“ COSO ”) in Internal Control-Integrated 2013 Framework. Our management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2018, our internal control over financial reporting was not effective.

 

A material weakness is a control deficiency (within the meaning of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Auditing Standard No. 2) or combination of control deficiencies that result in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected. Management has identified the following material weaknesses:

 

1. We do not have sufficient resources in our accounting function, which restricts our ability to gather, analyze and properly review information related to financial reporting in a timely manner. In addition, due to our size and nature, segregation of all conflicting duties may not always be possible and may not be economically feasible. However, to the extent possible, the initiation of transactions, the custody of assets and the recording of transactions should be performed by separate individuals. Management evaluated the impact of our failure to have segregation of duties during our assessment of our disclosure controls and procedures and concluded that the control deficiency that resulted represented a material weakness

 

2. We have inadequate controls to ensure that information necessary to properly record transactions is adequately communicated on a timely basis from non-financial personnel to those responsible for financial reporting. Management evaluated the impact of the lack of timely communication between non–financial and financial personnel on our assessment of our reporting controls and procedures and has concluded that the control deficiency represented a material weakness.

 

3. We did not design or maintain effective general information technology (“IT”) controls over certain information systems that are relevant to the mitigation of the risk pertaining to the misappropriation of assets. Specifically, we did not design and implement:

 

· Program change management controls for certain financially relevant systems to ensure that IT program and data changes affecting the Company’s (i) financial IT applications, (ii) digital currency mining equipment, (iii) digital currency hardware wallets, and (iv) underlying accounting records, are identified, tested, authorized and implemented appropriately; and

 

· Physical security controls to ensure that the (i) digital currency hardware wallets, (ii) digital currency hardware wallet master seed phrases, (iii) digital currency hardware wallet pin codes, and (iv) the digital currency mining equipment were safeguarded, monitored, validated, and restorable, both physically and electronically.

 

Planned Remediation

 

Management, in coordination with the input, oversight and support of our Audit Committee, has identified the measures below to strengthen our control environment and internal control over financial reporting.

 

In January 2018 we hired a new Chief Financial Officer and engaged the services of a financial accounting advisory firm. In September 2018, we hired a Chief Accounting Officer and in January 2019, we hired a Senior Vice President of Finance. We have tasked these individuals with expanding and monitoring the Company’s internal controls, to provide an additional level of review of complex financial issues and to assist with financial reporting. Further, as we continue to expand our internal accounting department, the Chairman of the Audit Committee shall perform the following:

 

· assists with documentation and implementation of policies and procedures and monitoring of controls,

 

· reviews all anticipated transactions that are not considered in the ordinary course of business to assist in the early identification of accounting issues and ensure that appropriate disclosures are made in our financial statements

 

We are currently working to improve and simplify our internal processes and implement enhanced controls, as discussed above, to address the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and to remedy the ineffectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures.

 

This Annual Report does not include an attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to a provision under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act which grants a permanent exemption for non-accelerated filers from complying with Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

During the most recent fiscal quarter 2018 there were no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

ITEM 9B.          OTHER INFORMATION.

 

None

 

 

PART III

 

Item 10.           Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

 

The following table sets forth the positions and offices presently held by each of our current directors and executive officers and their ages:

 

      Served as a
    Position and Offices Director and
Name Age Held with the Company Officer Since
Milton C. Ault, III (1) 49 Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board and Director 2017
William B. Horne  (2) 50 Chief Financial Officer and Director 2016
Amos Kohn 59 President and Director 2003
Robert O. Smith  (3) (5) 75 Director 2016
Moti Rosenberg  (5) 70 Director 2015
Jeffrey A. Bentz (4) (5) 59 Director 2018

 

(1) Effective March 16, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed to the Board.
(2)

On October 13, 2016, William B. Horne was appointed to the Board. Pursuant to a securities purchase agreement dated September 5, 2016 by and among the Company, Philou

Ventures, and Telkoor. Philou Ventures has the right to appoint one member to the Board of Directors.

(3) On September 22, 2016, Mr. Robert O. Smith was appointed to the board.
(4) On January 24, 2018, Mr. Jeffrey A. Bentz was appointed to the board.
(5) Independent Director and Member of the Audit, Compensation and Nominating and Governance Committees.

 

Each of the directors named above will serve until the next annual meeting of our stockholders or until his respective successor is elected and qualified. Subject to the terms of applicable employment agreements, our executive officers serve at the discretion of our Board.

 

Mr. Milton C. Ault, III

 

On March 16, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed Executive Chairman of the Board and on December 28, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Ault is a seasoned business professional and entrepreneur that has spent more than twenty-seven years identifying value in various financial markets including equities, fixed income, commodities, and real estate. Mr. Ault founded on February 25, 2016 Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’s Disease and has served as its Chairman since. Mr. Ault has served as Chairman of Ault & Company, a holding company since December 2015, and as Chairman of Avalanche International Corp since September 2014, a “voluntary filer” under the Exchange Act. Since January, 2011, Mr. Ault has been the Vice President of Business Development for MCKEA Holdings, LLC, a family office. Through this position, Mr. Ault has consulted for a few publicly traded and privately held companies, providing each of them the benefit of his diversified experience, that range from development stage to seasoned businesses. He was the President, Chief Executive Officer, Director and Chairman of the Board of Zealous, Inc. from August 2007 until June 4, 2010 and again from February 2011 through May 1, 2011. Mr. Ault was a registered representative at Strome Securities, LP, from July 1998 until December 2005, where he was involved in portfolio management and worked on several activism campaigns including Taco Cabana, Jack In The Box (formerly Foodmaker), and 21st Century Holdings Co. Mr. Ault became majority stockholder of Franklin Capital Corp and was elected to its board of directors in July 2004 and became its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in October 2004 serving until January 2006, and again from July 2006 to January 2007. In April 2005, the company changed its name to Patient Safety Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:PSTX, OTCQB:PSTX) (“PST”) and purchased SurgiCount Medical, Inc. Stryker Corporation (NYSE:SYK) acquired PST at the beginning of 2014 in a deal valued at approximately one hundred twenty million dollars ($120,000,000). PST’s wholly owned operating subsidiary, SurgiCount Medical, Inc., is the company that developed the SafetySponge® System; a bar coding technology for inventory control that aims to detect and prevent the incidence of foreign objects left in the body after surgery. We believe that Mr. Ault’s business background demonstrates he has the qualifications to serve as one of our directors and as Chairman.

 

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Amos Kohn

 

Mr. Kohn has served as a member of our board of directors since 2003, as our President since 2008. Mr. Kohn also served at our Chief Executive Officer from 2008 to December 2017. From March 2011 until August 2013 and again from July 2017 until January 2018, Mr. Kohn also served as interim Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Kohn has more than 20 years of successful global executive management experience, including multiple C-level roles across private and established publicly-traded companies. Mr. Kohn has successfully managed cross-functional teams, driven corporations to high profitability, built customer loyalty and led businesses through expansion and sustained growth. His areas of expertise include operations, technology innovation, manufacturing, strategic analysis and planning and M&A. Mr. Kohn was Vice President of Business Development at Scopus Video Networks, Inc., a Princeton, New Jersey company that develops and markets digital video networking products (2006-2007); Vice President of Solutions Engineering at ICTV Inc., a leading provider of network-based streaming media technology solutions for digital video and web-driven programming, located in Los Gatos, California (2003-2006); Chief Architect at Liberate Technologies, a leading company in the development of a full range of digital media processing for telecom and cable TV industries, located in San Carlos, California (2000-2003); and Executive Vice President of Engineering and Technology at Golden Channel & Co., the largest cable television multiple-systems operator (MSO) in Israel, where he had executive responsibility for developing and implementing the entire nationwide cable TV system (1989-2000). Mr. Kohn holds a degree in electrical and electronics engineering and is named as an inventor on several United States and international patents. We believe that Mr. Kohn’s extensive executive-level management experience in diversified industries, including, but not limited to, power electronics, telecommunications, cable television, broadcast and wireless, as well as his service as a director on our board since 2003, give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors. 

 

William B. Horne

 

Mr. Horne has served as a member of our board of directors since October 2016. On January 25, 2018, Mr. Horne was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer. Prior to his appointment as our Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Horne served as one our independent directors. He has served as the Chief Financial Officer of Targeted Medical Pharma, Inc. (OTCBB: TRGM) since August 2013. Mr. Horne is a director of and Chief Financial Officer to Avalanche International, Corp., a “voluntary filer” under the Exchange Act. Mr. Horne previously held the position of Chief Financial Officer in various companies in the healthcare and high-tech field, including OptimisCorp, from January 2008 to May 2013, a privately held, diversified healthcare technology company located in Los Angeles, California. Mr. Horne served as the Chief Financial Officer of Patient Safety Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: PSTX), a medical device company located in Irvine, California, from June 2005 to October 2008 and as the interim Chief Executive Officer from January 2007 to April 2008. In his dual role at Patient Safety Technologies, Mr. Horne was directly responsible for structuring the divestiture of non-core assets, capital financings and debt restructuring. Mr. Horne held the position of Managing Member & Chief Financial Officer of Alaska Wireless Communications, LLC, a privately held, advanced cellular communications company, from its inception in May 2002 until November 2007. Mr. Horne was responsible for negotiating the sale of Alaska Wireless to General Communication Inc. (NASDAQ: GNCMA). From November 1996 to December 2001, Mr. Horne held the position of Chief Financial Officer of The Phoenix Partners, a venture capital limited partnership located in Seattle, Washington. Mr. Horne has also held supervisory positions at Price Waterhouse, LLP and has a Bachelor of Arts Magna Cum Laude in Accounting from Seattle University. We believe that Mr. Horne's extensive financial and accounting experience in diversified industries and with companies involving complex transactions give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

Robert O. Smith

 

Mr. Smith serves as one of our independent directors. Previously, he served as a member of our Board of Directors from November 2010 until May 2015, and served as a member of our Advisory Board from 2002 until 2015. He is currently a C-level executive consultant working with Bay Area high-tech firms on various strategic initiatives in all aspects of their business. From 2004 to 2007, he served on the Board of Directors of Castelle Corporation. From 1990 to 2002, he was our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. From 1980 to 1990, he held several management positions with Computer Products, Inc., the most recent being President of their Compower/Boschert Division. From 1970 to 1980, he held managerial accounting positions with Ametek/Lamb Electric and with the JM Smucker Company. Mr. Smith received his BBA degree in Accounting from Ohio University. We believe that Mr. Smith’s executive-level experience, including his previous service as our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, his extensive experience in the accounting industry, and his service on our Board from November 2010 until May 2015, give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

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Mordechai Rosenberg

 

Mr. Rosenberg serves as one of our independent directors. He has served as an independent consultant to various companies in the design and implementation of homeland security systems in Europe and Africa since 2010. From 2004 to 2009, he served as a special consultant to Bullet Plate Ltd., a manufacturer of armor protection systems, and NovIdea Ltd., a manufacturer of perimeter and border security systems. From 2000 to 2003, Mr. Rosenberg was the general manager of ZIV U.P.V.C Products Ltd.'s doors and window factory. Mr. Rosenberg is an active reserve officer and a retired colonel from the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), where he served for 26 years and was involved in the development of weapon systems. In the IDF, Mr. Rosenberg served in various capacities, including platoon, company, battalion and brigade commander, head of the training center for all IDF infantry, and head of the Air Force's Special Forces. Mr. Rosenberg received a B.A in History from the University of Tel Aviv and a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Haifa in Israel. We believe that Mr. Rosenberg’s business background give him the qualifications to serve as one of our directors. 

 

Mr. Jeffrey Bentz

 

Mr. Bentz is an experienced businessman who has served since 1994 as President of North Star Terminal & Stevedore Company, a full-service stevedoring company located in Alaska and whose major areas of business include terminal operations and management, stevedore services, and heavy equipment operations. He also has served as a director and advisor to several private companies and agencies. Mr. Bentz obtained a B.A. in Business and Finance from Western Washington University in 1981. We believe that Mr. Bentz’s executive-level experience, including his operational and financial oversight of companies with multiple profit centers and his extensive experience in the real estate and commercial services industries give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors. 

 

Corporate Governance

 

Our Board is currently composed of six members and maintains the following three standing committees: (1) the Audit Committee; (2) the Compensation Committee; and (3) the Nominating and Governance Committee. The membership and the function of each of the committees are described below. Our Board may, from time to time, establish a new committee or dissolve an existing committee depending on the circumstances. Current copies of the charters for the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee can be found on our website at  https://dpwholdings.com .

 

Audit Committee

 

Messrs. Smith, Bentz and Rosenberg currently comprise the Audit Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Audit Committee satisfies the requirements for independence and financial literacy under the standards of the SEC and the NYSE American. Our Board has also determined that Mr. Smith qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in SEC regulations and satisfies the financial sophistication requirements set forth in the NYSE American Rules.

 

The Audit Committee is responsible for, among other things, selecting and hiring our independent auditors, approving the audit and pre-approving any non-audit services to be performed by our independent auditors; reviewing the scope of the annual audit undertaken by our independent auditors and the progress and results of their work; reviewing our financial statements, internal accounting and auditing procedures, and corporate programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws; and reviewing the services performed by our independent auditors to determine if the services rendered are compatible with maintaining the independent auditors’ impartial opinion.

 

Compensation Committee

 

Messrs. Smith, Bentz and Rosenberg currently comprise the Compensation Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Compensation Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American. Mr. Smith serves as Chairman of the Compensation Committee.

 

The Compensation Committee is responsible for, among other things, reviewing and approving executive compensation policies and practices; reviewing and approving salaries, bonuses and other benefits paid to our officers, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer; and administering our stock option plans and other benefit plans.

 

Nominating and Governance Committee

 

Messrs. Smith, Bentz, and Rosenberg currently comprise the Nominating and Governance Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Nominating and Governance Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American. Mr. Rosenberg serves as Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee.

 

The Nominating and Governance Committee is responsible for, among other things, assisting our Board in identifying prospective director nominees and recommending nominees for each annual meeting of stockholders to the Board; developing and recommending governance principles applicable to our Board; overseeing the evaluation of our Board and management; and recommending potential members for each Board committee to our Board.

 

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The Nominating and Governance Committee considers diversity when identifying Board candidates. In particular, it considers such criteria as a candidate’s broad-based business and professional skills, experiences and global business and social perspective.

 

In addition, the Committee seeks directors who exhibit personal integrity and a concern for the long-term interests of stockholders, as well as those who have time available to devote to Board activities and to enhancing their knowledge of the power-supply industry. Accordingly, we seek to attract and retain highly qualified directors who have sufficient time to attend to their substantial duties and responsibilities.

 

Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

 

Except as set forth below, to the best of our knowledge, during the past ten years, none of the following occurred with respect to a present or former director, executive officer, or employee: 

 

· been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);

 

· had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against the business or property of the person, or of any partnership, corporation or business association of which he was a general partner or executive officer, either at the time of the bankruptcy filing or within two years prior to that time;

 

· been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction or federal or state authority, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting, his involvement in any type of business, securities, futures, commodities, investment, banking, savings and loan, or insurance activities, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity;

 

· been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated;

 

· been the subject of, or a party to, any federal or state judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated (not including any settlement of a civil proceeding among private litigants), relating to an alleged violation of any federal or state securities or commodities law or regulation, any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order, or any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity;

 

· or been the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.

 

1. Mr. Ault held series 7, 24, and 63 licenses and managed four domestic hedge funds and one bond fund from 1998 through 2008. On April 26, 2012, as a result from an investigation by FINRA involving activities during 2008, Mr. Ault agreed to a settlement with FINRA in which he did not admit to any liability or violation of any laws or regulatory rules and that included restitution and a suspension from association with a FINRA member firm for a period of 2 years. As part of that settlement, Mr. Ault agreed that before he would reapply for association with FINRA, if at all, he would make restitution to certain investors. Mr. Ault was able to speak with and pay restitution to one of the investors, but no others. As a result, Mr. Ault is neither eligible, nor does he intend, to apply for association with FINRA.

 

2. Mr. Ault was CEO, President and Chairman of Zealous Holdings, Inc. that filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) on February 20, 2009, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California. This Chapter 11 filing was subsequently converted to a Chapter 7 filing by order of the Bankruptcy Court. Zealous Holdings, Inc. was not an entity that was entitled to a discharge under the bankruptcy code. As such Zealous Holdings, Inc. did not receive a discharge. Ultimately, Zealous Holdings, Inc. ceased doing business and was permanently closed.

 

3. Mr. Ault filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) on December 8, 2009, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California. This Chapter 13 filing was subsequently converted to a Chapter 7 filing by order of the Bankruptcy Court and months later, the petition being withdrawn and dismissed without prejudice.

 

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Except as set forth in our discussion below in “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” none of our directors or executive officers has been involved in any transactions with us or any of our directors, executive officers, affiliates or associates which are required to be disclosed pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC.

 

Family Relationships

 

There are no family relationships among our directors and executive officers. 

 

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our executive officers and directors and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered class of our equity securities to file an initial report of ownership on Form 3 and changes in ownership on Form 4 or Form 5 with the SEC.  Executive officers, directors and ten percent stockholders are also required by SEC rules to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file.  Based solely upon our review of Forms 3, 4 and 5 received by us, or written representations from certain reporting persons, we believe that during the during current fiscal year and the year ended December 31, 2018, all such filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and ten percent stockholders were fulfilled with the following exceptions: During the fiscal year of 2018, Mr. Bentz inadvertently filed one late Form 4 reporting two transactions; Mr. Ault inadvertently filed one late Form 4  reporting an issuance of a warrant by the Company to Ault & Company, Inc., a Delaware corporation; and Mr. Horne inadvertently filed one late Form  4. 

 

Code of Ethics

 

We have adopted the Code of Ethical Conduct that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller or person performing similar functions (collectively, the “Financial Managers”). The Code of Ethical Conduct is designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote honest and ethical conduct and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The full text of our Code of Ethical Conduct is published on our website at  https://dpwholdings.com . We will disclose any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethical Conduct or any waivers, explicit or implicit, from a provision of the Code on our website or in a current report on Form 8-K. Upon request to our President, Amos Kohn, we will provide without charge, a copy of our Code of Ethical Conduct.

 

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION .

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

The following Summary Compensation Table sets forth all compensation earned in all capacities during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, by our Chief Executive Officer (the “ Named Executive Officer ”). Because we are a Smaller Reporting Company, we only have to report information of our Chief Executive Officer as no other officer met the definition of Named Executive Officer within the meaning of the SEC rules.

  

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
               
Name and principal position Year Salary ($) Bonus ($) Stock Awards ($) (1)

Option

Awards ($) (I)

All Other

Compensation ($)

Total ($)
               
Milton C. Ault, III 2018 0 0 630,000 253,465 400,000 1,283,465
Chief Executive Officer  (3) 2017 0 0 0 461,250 207,500 668,750
William B. Home 2018 246,436 25,000 2,230,000 940,180

12,857  (2)  

3,454,473
Chief Financial Officer  (4) 2017 0 0 0 92,250 80,000 172,250
Amos Kohn 2018 350,000

0

0

0

34,887  (2)

384,687

President  (5) 2017 300,000 0 0 92,250 33,000  (2) 425,250

 

 

(1)

The values reported in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns represent the aggregate grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Accounting Standards

Codification (“ ASC ”) 718 Share Based Payments , of grants of stock options and stock awards to our named executive officer in the years shown.

 
(2) The amounts in “All Other Compensation” consist of health insurance benefits, long-term and short-term disability insurance benefits, and 401K matching amounts.
 

(4)

 

Mr. Ault was appointed as our Chief Executive Officer on December 28, 2017. Amounts included in “All Other Compensation” consist of cash fees earned as an independent

contractor.

(4)

Mr. Horne was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer on January 25, 2018. Amounts included in “All Other Compensation” consist of cash fees earned as a director.
(3) Mr. Kohn also served as our Chief Executive Officer until December 28, 2017.

 

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Employment Agreement with Milton C. Ault, III

 

On June 17, 2018, the Company entered into a ten year executive employment agreement with Milton C. Ault, III, to serve as Chief Executive Officer of the Company.  For his services, Mr. Ault will be paid a base salary of $400,000 per annum (the “Base Salary”).

 

Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the agreement, if the Company meets or exceeds criteria adopted by the Company’s compensation committee (the “Compensation Committee”) for earning bonuses which shall be adopted by the Compensation Committee annually, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive an annual bonus, which percentage shall be based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Compensation Committee.

 

Further, Mr. Ault is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (A) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 50,000 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning on January 1, 2020, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”)  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Ault, which consent may be withheld in his discretion, and (B) an option to purchase 25,000 shares of common stock of the Company at a per share price equal to $16.00, which option will vest over 60 months.

 

In addition, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive a performance-based award (the “CEO Performance Award”), provided that the Company, for any given fiscal year during the term of this agreement, meets the following criteria: (A) an increase in revenue, as calculated under GAAP over the previous fiscal year as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year; provided that any increase less than thirty-five percent (35%) (the “Revenue Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; (B) positive net income, as calculated under GAAP, as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year, provided that any increase less than five percent (5%) (the “Net Income Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; and (C) positive net cash flow from operations on a year-to-year basis, where cash flow is defined as the net amount of cash and cash-equivalents being transferred into and out of the Company. The CEO Performance Award shall consist of a number of shares of the Company’s common stock having a maximum value equal to ten percent (10%) of any appreciation in the Company’s Market Capitalization above the High Water Mark (as such terms are defined in the agreement) as measured by the daily average closing bid price of the Company’s common stock for the applicable fiscal year subject to proration obtained by the product of Revenue Percentage and the Net Income Percentage. If the CEO Performance Award in a fiscal year is less than ten percent (10%) due to a reduction caused by an annual shortfall in either the Revenue Percentage or the Net Income Percentage, the prior year’s targets would be deemed to have been achieved if a corresponding overage in a subsequent fiscal year results in the achievement of the cumulative targets.  The annual and cumulative targets for revenue and net income, which are provided solely for the purpose of establishing cumulative totals, are set forth in the agreement.

 

Upon termination of Mr. Ault’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Ault shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

 

Further, unless Mr. Ault’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Ault’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Ault a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four (4) weeks of base salary for each full year of service and credit for his service commencing from September 22, 2016, (B) should Mr. Ault provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, but in no event an amount greater than the Base Salary payable should either such period expire within two years, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Ault is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Ault would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Ault will be paid an amount equal to the greater of: (i) five times his then current Base Salary or (ii) the Separation Payment amount set forth above, without regard to whether Mr. Ault continues in the employ of the Company or its successor.

 

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Employment agreement with William B. Horne

 

On January 25, 2018, we entered into a five-year employment agreement with William Horne to serve as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the Company and its subsidiaries.  For his services, Mr. Horne will be paid a base salary of $250,000 per annum. Upon signing of the employment agreement, Mr. Horne is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $25,000.  In addition, Mr. Horne shall be eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee.

 

Further, Mr. Horne is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (i) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 50,000 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest in installments of ten thousand (10,000) shares annually over five (5) years beginning on January 1, 2019, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the SEC  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Horne, which consent may be withheld in his discretion, and (ii) an option to purchase 100,000 shares of common stock of the Company at a per share price equal to $46.40, the closing market price of the shares of common stock on January 24, 2018, which option will vest over 60 months. 

 

Upon termination of Mr. Horne’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Horne shall be entitled to receive: (i) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (ii) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation time.

 

Further, unless Mr. Horne’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Horne’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Horne a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (B) should Mr. Horne provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Horne is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Horne would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Horne will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment. 

 

Employment Agreement with Amos Kohn

 

On November 30, 2016, as amended on February 22, 2017, the Company entered into an employment agreement with Amos Kohn to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer with an effective date of September 22, 2016.

 

For his services, Mr. Kohn will be paid a salary of $300,000 per annum increasing to $350,000 per annum provided that the Company achieves revenues in the aggregate amount of at least $10,000,000 as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP for the trailing four calendar quarters.

 

In addition, Mr. Kohn shall be eligible for an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee after conferring with Mr. Kohn. The target amount of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus shall be 25% to 50% of his then annual base salary but may be greater upon mutual agreement between Mr. Kohn and the compensation committee.

 

Further, Mr. Kohn is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (i) ten-year warrants to purchase 15,873 shares of the Company's Common Stock (the “Warrant Grant”) at an exercise price of $0.20 per share subject to vesting quarterly over two years effective January 1, 2017; and (ii) ten-year options to purchase 50,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $13.00 per share. The option to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock is subject to the following vesting schedule: (1) options to purchase 25,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest upon the effective date; (2) options to purchase 12,500 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over six months beginning with the first month after the effective date; and (3) options to purchase 12,500 shares of common stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date. As part of the grant of the options to purchase 50,000 shares, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 26,750 shares of common stock previously granted to him under the Company’s Incentive Share Option Plans.

 

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In the event that Mr. Kohn is terminated by the Company without cause, or if Mr. Kohn resigns for good reason, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to (i) all annual salary earned prior to the termination date, any earned but unpaid portion of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus for the year preceding in which such termination occurred and any earned but unpaid paid time off; (ii) an amount equal to 100% of Mr. Kohn’s then in effect annual base salary plus an additional 1/12th of Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary for each year of employment with the Company prior to such termination; (iii) an amount equal to the average of Mr. Kohn’s two prior years’ annual bonuses (with such average not to exceed 50% of Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary in effect at the time of termination) prorated for the portion of the year that executive was employed; (iv) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and held by Mr. Kohn through the termination date and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn’s restricted stock shall cease; and (v) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at Company expense for a period of not less than 18 months.

 

If Mr. Kohn is terminated without cause, or resigns for good reason within 12 months of a change of control, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to receive: (i) payment in a lump sum of Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary for 24 months and any accrued, unused paid time-off; (ii) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn restricted stock shall cease; and (iii) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at the Company’s expense for a period of not less than 18 months.  

 

  Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation

 

At the annual meeting of stockholders on December 28, 2016, the stockholders approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers. In addition, stockholders voted, on an advisory basis, that an advisory vote on executive compensation should be held every three years.

 

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table provides information on outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 2018 to the Named Executive Officer.

 

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2018
OPTION AWARDS
Name

 

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable

 

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
Equity Incentive Plan
Awards: Number of
Securities Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned Options (#)
Option
Exercise
Price ($)
Option
Expiration
Date
Milton C. Ault III 6,771 (1) 18,229 $27.60 11/28/2027
  3,125 (2) 21,875 $16.00 6/17/2018
William B. Horne 1,354 (3) 3,646 $27.60 11/28/2027
  4,583 (4) 20,417 $46.40 1/25/2018
Amos Kohn 50,000 (5) $13.00 11/3/2026
  15,873 (6) $0.20 11/3/2026
  1,354 (7) 3,646 $27.60 11/28/2027

 

 

(1) Represents options to purchase 25,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $27.60 per share subject to vesting monthly over four years beginning November 28, 2017 granted to Mr. Ault.

 

(2) Represents options to purchase 25,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $16.00 per share subject to vesting monthly over four years beginning June 17, 2018 granted to Mr. Ault.

 

(3) Represents options to purchase 5,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $27.60 per share subject to vesting monthly over four years beginning November 28, 2017 granted to Mr. Horne.

 

(4) Represents options to purchase 25,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $46.40 per share subject to vesting monthly over five years beginning January 25, 2018 granted to Mr. Horne.

 

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(5) On November 3, 2016, Mr. Kohn was granted options to 50,000 shares of Common Stock at $13.00 per share. The options to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock are subject to the following vesting schedule: (1) options to purchase 25,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest upon the effective date; (2) options to purchase 12,500 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over six months beginning with the first month after the effective date; and (3) options to purchase 12,500 shares of common stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date. In connection with the grant of options to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 26,750 shares of common stock previously granted to him under the Company’s 2012 Plan.

 

(6) Represents warrants to purchase 15,873 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.20 per share subject to vesting quarterly over two years beginning January 1, 2017 granted to Mr. Kohn in connection with his employment agreement.

 

(7) Represents options to purchase 5,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $27.60 per share subject to vesting monthly over four years beginning November 28, 2017 granted to Mr. Kohn.

 

Director Compensation

 

Beginning July 1, 2018, the Company pays each independent director an annual base amount of $35,000 annually, other than Mr. Smith, who will receive a base amount of $45,000 annually due to anticipated additional services to be provided by Mr. Smith as a lead independent director. Additionally, our Board makes recommendations for adjustments to an independent director’s compensation when the level of services provided are significantly above what was anticipated.

 

The table below sets forth, for each non-employee director, the total amount of compensation related to his or her service during the year ended December 31, 2018:

 

    Fees earned or     Stock     Option     All other        
Name   paid in cash ($)     awards ($)     awards ($)     compensation ($)     Total ($)  
Robert O. Smith     37,500             117,861 (1)             155,361  
Kristine Ault  (2)     5,000                         5,000  
Jeffrey A. Bentz (3)     28,264             590,708 (4)             618,972  
Mordechai Rosenberg     27,500             147,010 (5)             174,510  

 

(1) On June 17, 2018, Mr. Smith was granted options to purchase 11,625 shares of Common Stock at $16.00 per share. The options shall vest ratably over forty-eight (48) months beginning with the first month after the effective date.

 

(2) Ms. Ault resigned from the Board on January 24, 2018.

 

(3) Mr. Bentz was appointed as Director on January 24, 2018

 

(4) On January 24, 2018, Mr. Bentz was granted options to purchase 13,750 shares of Common Stock at $46.40 per share and on June 17, 2018, Mr. Bentz was granted options to purchase 5,000 shares of Common Stock at $16.00 per share. The options shall vest ratably over forty-eight (48) months beginning with the first month after the effective date.

 

(5) On June 17, 2018, Mr. Rosenberg was granted options to purchase 14,500 shares of Common Stock at $16.00 per share. The options shall vest ratably over forty-eight (48) months beginning with the first month after the effective date.

 

Stock Option Plans

 

On December 28, 2018, the stockholder’s approved the 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2018 Stock Incentive Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 500,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants. The 2018 Stock Incentive Plan is in addition to the Company’s (i) 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 100,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, (ii) 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016 Stock Incentive Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 200,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, and (ii) 2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “2012 Plan”), which provides for the issuance of a maximum of 68,632 shares of the Company’s common stock to be offered to the Company’s directors, officers, employees, and consultants (collectively the “Plans”).

 

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The purpose of the Plans is to advance the interests of the Company by providing to key employees of the Company and its affiliates, who have substantial responsibility for the direction and management of the Company, as well as certain directors and consultants of the Company, additional incentives to exert their best efforts on behalf of the Company, to increase their proprietary interest in the success of the Company, to reward outstanding performance and to provide a means to attract and retain persons of outstanding ability to the service of the Company.

 

As of December 31, 2018, options to purchase 173,125 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding, and 507,789 shares are available for future issuance under the Plans.

 

401(k) Plan

 

We have adopted a tax-qualified employee savings and retirement plan, or 401(k) plan, which generally covers all of our full-time employees. Pursuant to the 401(k) plan, eligible employees may make voluntary contributions to the plan up to a maximum of 5% of eligible compensation. The 401(k) plan permits, but does not require, matching contributions by the Company on behalf of plan participants. We match contributions at the rate of (1) $1.00 for each $1.00 contributed, up to 3% of the base salary and (2) $0.50 for each $1.00 contributed thereafter, up to 5% of the base salary. We are also permitted under the plan to make discretionary contributions. The 401(k) plan is intended to qualify under Sections 401(k) and 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Contributions to such a qualified plan are deductible by the Company when made, and neither the contributions nor the income earned on those contributions is taxable to plan participants until withdrawn. All 401(k) plan contributions are credited to separate accounts maintained in trust.

 

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.

 

Except as otherwise indicated below, the following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial ownership of our common stock as of April 10, 2019 by (1) each of our current directors; (2) each of the named executive officers listed in the Summary Compensation Table located above in the section entitled “Executive Compensation”; (3) each person known to us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of our common stock based upon Schedules 13G or 13D filed with the SEC; and (4) all of our directors and executive officers as a group. As of April 10, 2019, there were 22,692,365 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding.

 

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and includes voting or investment power with respect to the securities. Common stock subject to options or warrants that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date are deemed to be outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person or group holding such options or warrants for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of such person or group, but are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person or group. Unless otherwise indicated by footnote, to our knowledge, the persons named in the table have sole voting and sole investment power with respect to all common stock shown as beneficially owned by them, subject to applicable community property laws. Unless otherwise indicated below, the address of each beneficial owner listed below is c/o DPW Holdings, Inc., 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, California 92663.

 

Name and address of beneficial owner  

Number of

shares

beneficially

owned

 

Approximate

Percent

of class

Greater than 5% Beneficial Owners :            
Philou Ventures, LLC     314,864 (2)   1.38%
Ault & Company, Inc.     333,882 (3)   1.46%
             
Directors and executive officers: (1)            
Milton Ault, III     347,695 (4)   1.52%
Amos Kohn     79,601 (5)   *
Robert Smith     19,846 (6)   *
William Horne     29,750 (7)   *
Moti Rosenberg     14,385 (8)   *
Jeffrey A. Bentz     6,635 (9)   *
All directors and executive officers as a group (six persons)     497,913     2.19%

  

*           Less than one percent.

 

  (1) Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is c/o DPW Holdings, Inc., 201 Shipyard Way, Newport Beach, CA 92663.

 

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  (2) Includes 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock that are convertible into 89,285 of common stock and warrants to purchase 89,285 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date. Each share of Series B carries the voting power of 0.71 shares of common stock. Philou Ventures’ address is P.O. Box 3587 Tustin, CA 92705.

  (3) Includes shares beneficially owned by Philou Ventures of which Ault & Company, Inc. is the Manager. Also includes options to purchase 3,750 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of April 10, 2019.
  (4) Includes 314,864 shares beneficially owned by Philou Ventures, 15,268 shares and warrants to purchase 3,750 shares of common stock beneficially owned by Ault & Company, Inc. (“ Ault & Company ”) that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date, which may be deemed beneficially owned by Mr. Ault. Also includes 1,730 shares and options owned by Mr. Ault to purchase 12,083 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of April 10, 2019. Mr. Ault is the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company.

  (5) Includes options to purchase 51,667 shares and warrants to purchase 20,206 shares of common stock exercisable within 60 days of April 10, 2019.

  (6) Includes options and warrants to purchase 17,680 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of April 10, 2019.

  (7) Includes options to purchase 17,500 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of April 10, 2019.
  (8) Consists of options to purchase shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of April 10, 2019.
  (9) Includes options to purchase 6,285 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of April 10, 2019.

 

 

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

 

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our stockholders or directors. On September 22, 2016, Philou Ventures became our largest stockholder when it acquired all of the common stock of a prior stockholder, Telkoor Telecom, Ltd. Philou Ventures’ Manager is Kristine L. Ault, a former director. Ms. Ault is the spouse of Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board.

 

  Philou Ventures, LLC

 

On March 9, 2017, we entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Philou Ventures. Philou Ventures is the Company’s largest single stockholder. Milton C. Ault is the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, the Manager of Philou Ventures. Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, Philou Ventures may invest up to $5,000,000 in us through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock (“Preferred Stock”) over the Term, as specified herein. Each share of Preferred Stock shall be purchased at $10.00 up to a maximum issuance of 500,000 shares of Preferred Stock. Philou Ventures guaranteed to purchase by May 31, 2017, the greater of: (i) 100,000 shares of Preferred Stock or (ii) a sufficient number of shares of Preferred Stock to ensure that we have sufficient stockholders’ equity to meet the minimum continued listing standards of the NYSE American. In addition, for as long as the Preferred Stock is outstanding, Philou Ventures agrees to purchase additional shares of Preferred Stock in a sufficient amount in order us to meet the NYSE American’s minimum stockholders’ equity continued listing requirement subject to the maximum number of 500,000 shares of Preferred Stock (collectively, “Guaranteed Purchases”). In addition, at any time during the Term, Philou Ventures may in its sole and absolute discretion purchase additional shares of Preferred Stock, up to the 500,000 share maximum (“Voluntary Purchases”). All consideration for Voluntary Purchases shall be delivered through a series of varying payments (“Payments”) by Philou Ventures, at its sole and absolute discretion, during the period commencing on the closing date and ending 36 months therefrom (the “Term”). We have the right to request, with 90-day written notice to Philou Ventures, that Guaranteed Purchases be accelerated to meet deadlines for maintaining the minimum stockholders’ equity required by the NYSE American. The Preferred Stock shall not be callable by us for 25 years from the closing date.

 

In addition, for each share of Preferred Stock purchased by Philou Ventures, Philou Ventures will receive warrants to purchase shares of common stock in a number equal to the stated value of each share of Preferred Stock of $10.00 purchased divided by $0.70 at an exercise price equal to $14.00 per share of common stock

 

Further, Philou Ventures shall have the right to participate in our future financings under substantially the same terms and conditions as other investors in those respective financings in order to maintain its then percentage ownership interest. Philou Ventures’ right to participate in such financings shall accrue and accumulate provided that it still owns at least 100,000 shares of Preferred Stock.

 

On December 29, 2016, MCKEA Holdings, LLC ( MCKEA ”) lent us $250,000 in the form of a demand note bearing simple interest at 6.0%. MCKEA is the majority member of Philou Ventures, LLC, which is the Company’s controlling stockholder. Kristine L. Ault, a former director and the wife of Milton C. Ault III, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors, is the manager and owner of MCKEA. On March 24, 2017, MCKEA cancelled the $250,000 demand note to purchase 25,000 shares of Preferred Stock and received warrants to purchase 25,510 shares of common stock at $14.00 per share.

 

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On March 20, 2017, Philou arranged for the Company to receive a $250,000 short-term loan. Between May 5, 2017 and June 2, 2017, Philou purchased an additional 75,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement in consideration of the cancellation of the Company debt due to Philou from the $250,000 short term loan and cash of $500,000. In addition, Philou received warrants to purchase 76,531 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.00 per share of common stock. On April 24, 2018, Philou purchased an additional 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock in consideration of the cancellation of short-term advances due to Philou in the aggregate amount of $250,000. In addition, Philou received warrants to purchase 25,510 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.00 per share of common stock.

 

Avalanche International, Corp.

 

On October 5, 2016, November 30, 2016, and February 22, 2017, the Company entered into three 12% Convertible Promissory Notes with Avalanche (the “ AVLP Notes ”) in the principal amount of $525,000 each. The AVLP Notes included a 5% original issue discount, resulting in net loans to Avalanche of $1,500,000 and an original issue discount of $75,000. The AVLP notes accrued interest at 12% per annum and were due on or before two years from the origination dates of each note. The Company had the right, at its option, to convert all or any portion of the principal and accrued interest into shares of common stock of Avalanche at approximately $0.74536 per share. Subject to adjustment, the AVLP Notes, inclusive of the original issue discount, were convertible into 2,113,086 shares of the Company’s common stock. During the period from March 29, 2017 to August 16, 2017, the Company funded $1,808,952 in excess of the $1,500,000 net loan amount required pursuant to the terms of the AVLP Notes 

 

On September 6, 2017, the Company and Avalanche entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (“ AVLP Loan Agreement ”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017 pursuant to which the Company will provide Avalanche a non-revolving credit facility of up to $5,000,000, inclusive of prior amounts loaned to AVLP, for a period ending on August 21, 2019.

 

In consideration of entering into the AVLP Loan Agreement, the Company and Avalanche cancelled the AVLP Notes and consolidated the AVLP Notes and prior advances totaling $3,308,952 plus original issue discount of $165,448 and issued a new Convertible Promissory Note in the aggregate principal amount of $3,474,400 (the “ New Note ”) that is convertible into shares of Avalanche at a conversion price of $0.50 per share. The New Note is due in two years and accrues interest at 12% per annum on the principal amount. Prior interest accrued under the AVLP Notes and advances will continue to be an obligation of Avalanche. The New Note contains standard events of defaults. In addition, concurrent to issuing the New Note, Avalanche issued to the Company a five-year warrant to purchase 6,948,800 shares of Avalanche Common Stock at $0.50 per share. Future advances under the AVLP Loan Agreement, which totaled $649,820 at December 31, 2017, are evidenced by a convertible promissory note containing a conversion price feature of $0.50 per share and warrant with an exercise price of $0.50 per share. Further, under the terms of the AVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by Avalanche are secured by the assets of AVLP.

 

At December 31, 2017, the Company had provided Avalanche with $4,124,220 pursuant to the non-revolving credit facility. The warrants issued in conjunction with the non-revolving credit facility entitles the Company to purchase up to 8,248,440 shares of Avalanche common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of five years. The exercise price of $0.50 is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis.

 

Avalanche is a holding company which on August 22, 2017, pursuant to the terms of a Share Exchange Agreement dated as of March 3, 2017, and as amended on July 13, 2017 and August 21, 2017 (the “ Exchange Agreement ”) with MTIX Ltd., a company formed under the laws of England and Wales (“ MTIX ”) and the three (3) stockholders of MTIX (the “ Sellers ”), Avalanche completed its acquisition of MTIX. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Exchange Agreement, Avalanche acquired MTIX from the Sellers through the transfer of all issued and outstanding ordinary shares of MTIX (the “ MTIX Shares ”) by the Sellers to Avalanche in exchange (the “ Exchange ”) for the issuance by Avalanche of: (a) 7% secured convertible promissory notes (individually, a “ Note” and collectively, the “Notes ”) in the aggregate principal face amount of $9,500,000 to the Sellers in pro rata amounts commensurate with their current respective ownership percentages of MTIX’s ordinary shares, (b) (i) $500,000 in cash, $50,000 of which was paid on October 26, 2016, and (ii) 100,000 shares of Avalanche’s newly designated shares of Class B Convertible Preferred Stock (the “ Class B Shares ”) to the principal stockholder of MTIX (the “ Majority Stockholder ”).

 

Milton C. Ault, III and William Horne, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively, and two of our directors are directors of Avalanche. In addition, Philou Ventures is the controlling stockholder of Avalanche as well as our largest single stockholder.

 

MTIX Limited

 

MTIX has developed a novel cost effective and environmentally friendly material synthesis technology for textile applications. Designed for global textile manufacturers, the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“ MLSE ”) plasma-laser system uses a combination of plasma and photonic energy to effect material synthesis of a substrate surface. The laser and gasses from the system deliver a dry process to enhance the surface of fabric. During March 2017 the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million contract by MTIX to manufacture, install and service the MLSE plasma-laser system. The Company has recognized $923,751 in revenue from MTIX, all of which was reflected as accounts receivable, related party at December 31, 2017.

 

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On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with WT Johnson & Sons (Huddersfield) Limited (the “ Holder ”), pursuant to which the Company issued to the Holder, (a) a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $600,000 (“ Note A ”), and (b) a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $1,667,766 (“ Note B ”), in exchange for cancellation of (i) an outstanding loan made by the Holder to MTIX in the amount of $265,766; and (ii) cancellation of an aggregate of $2,002,000 owed by MTIX to the Holder pursuant to an Agreement for the Sale and Purchase of a Textile Multi-Laser Enhancement Technology Machine dated as of July 21, 2017 by and between MTIX and the Holder.

 

Note A is convertible into the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $1.00 per share, does not bear interest, and matures two years from issuance. Note B is convertible into the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $0.85 per share, does not bear interest, and matures two years from issuance. However, the Holder shall not have the right to convert any portion of Note B, following receipt by the Holder of an aggregate of $2,267,766 of gross proceeds from the sale of shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of Note A or Note B.

 

During December 2017, the Company issued 600,000 shares of its common stock upon the conversion of Note A and the Holder notified the Company that gross proceeds during the month of December 2017 from sales of the 30,000 shares of common stock were sufficient to satisfy the entire $2,267,766 obligation. As a result of entering into the exchange agreement with the Holder, MTIX is obligated to pay the Company $2,668,266, consisting of the amount of the exchange agreement of $2,267,766 and a value added tax of $400,500 from the sale of the Textile Multi-Laser Enhancement Technology Machine. 

 

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

 

Marcum LLP serves as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

Fees and Services

 

The following table shows the aggregate fees billed to us for professional services by Marcum LLP, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

 

    2018     2017  
Audit Services   $ 610,564     $ 313,986  
Audit Related Services   $     $  
Tax Services   $     $  
All Other Services   $     $  
Total   $

610,564

    $ 313,986  

 

Audit Fee.  This category includes the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered for the audits of our financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, for the reviews of the financial statements included in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q during 2018 and 2017, and for other services that are normally provided by the independent auditors in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for the relevant years.

 

Audit-Related Fees.  This category includes the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two years for assurance and related services by the independent auditors that are reasonably related to the performance of the audits or reviews of the financial statements and are not reported above under “Audit Fees,” and generally consist of fees for other engagements under professional auditing standards, accounting and reporting consultations, internal control-related matters, and audits of employee benefit plans.

 

Tax Fees . This category includes the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two years for professional services rendered by the independent auditors for tax compliance, tax planning and tax advice.

 

All Other Fees.  This category includes the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two years for products and services provided by the independent auditors that are not reported above under “Audit Fees,” “Audit-Related Fees,” or “Tax Fees.”

 

The Audit Committee’s policy is to pre-approve all services provided by our independent auditors. These services may include audit services, audit-related services, tax services and other services. The Audit Committee may also pre-approve particular services on a case-by-case basis. Our independent auditors are required to report periodically to the Audit Committee regarding the extent of services they provide in accordance with such pre-approval.

 

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PART IV

 

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit
Number
  Description
     
2.1   Share Exchange Agreement between the Company, Microphase Corporation, Microphase Holding Company, RCKJ Trust, Ergul Family Limited Partnership, and To Hong Yam and Eagle Advisers, LLC, dated April 28, 2017.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 3, 2017 as Exhibit 2.1 thereto.   
     
2.2   Agreement and Plan of Merger between the Company and Digital Power Corporation, dated December 27, 2017.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 29, 2017 as Exhibit 2.1 thereto.   
     
2.3   State of Delaware, Certificate of Merger of the Company and Digital Power Corporation, dated December 28, 2017.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 29, 2017 as Exhibit 2.2 thereto.   
     
2.4   Share Purchase Agreement between Coolisys Technologies, Inc., Enertec Management Ltd., Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc., and Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd., dated December 31, 2017.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 2, 2018 as Exhibit 2.1 thereto.   
     
3.1   Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company, dated September 29, 1992.  Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form SB-2 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 16, 1996.
     
3.2   Certificate of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of the Company, dated September 9, 1996.  Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form SB-2 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 16, 1996.
     
3.3   Bylaws.  Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form SB-2 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 16, 1996.
     
3.4   Form of Certificate of Determination of Preferences, Rights and Limitations of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, dated March 3, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2017 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.
     
3.5   Form of Certificate of Determination of Preferences, Rights and Limitations of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 3, 2017 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.
     
3.6   Form of Certificate of Determination of Preferences, Rights and Limitations of Series E Convertible Preferred Stock.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 3, 2017 as Exhibit 3.2 thereto.
     
3.7   Form of Certificate of Determination of Preferences, Rights and Limitations of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, dated May 15, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 31, 2017 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.
     
3.8   Certification of Incorporation, dated September 22, 2017.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 29, 2017 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.   
     
3.9   Bylaws, dated September 25, 2017.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 29, 2017 as Exhibit 3.2 thereto.   

 

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Exhibit
Number
  Description
     
4.1   Form of Secured Convertible Note, dated October 21, 2016.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2016 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.   
     
4.2   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated October 21, 2016.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2016 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.   
     
4.3   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated October 21, 2016.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2016 as Exhibit 10.3 thereto.   
     
4.4   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated November 15, 2016.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 16, 2016 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.   
     
4.5   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.6   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 4, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.7   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 31, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.8   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 8, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.9   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated July 27, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 26, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.1   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated July 28, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 31, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.11   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated July 28, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 31, 2017 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.
     
4.12   Form of Convertible Note, dated August 3, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
4.13   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated August 3, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.3 thereto.
     
4.14   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated August 10, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 11, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.15   Form of Senior Convertible Promissory Note, dated August 10, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 11, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
4.16   Common Stock Purchase Warrant issued by Avalanche International Corp. to the Company, dated August 21, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.17   Convertible Promissory Note issued by Avalanche International Corp. to the Company, dated August 21, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
4.18   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 2, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.19   Form of 10% Original Issue Discount Convertible Debenture.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 2, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.

 

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Exhibit
Number
  Description
     
4.2   Form of 10% Original Issue Discount Debenture, dated December 4, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.21   Convertible Promissory Note issued by WT Johnson & Sons (Huddersfield) Ltd. to the Company, dated December 5, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.   
     
4.22   Convertible Promissory Note issued by WT Johnson & Sons (Huddersfield) Ltd. to the Company, dated December 5, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.   
     
4.23   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated December 5, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.24   Form of Senior Convertible Promissory Note, dated January 23, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 24, 2018 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
4.25   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated January 23, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 24, 2018 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.
     
4.26   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated March 23, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 26, 2018 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
     
10.1   Securities Purchase Agreement between the Company, Philou Ventures, LLC and Telkoor Telecom Ltd., dated September 4, 2016.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2016 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.2   Rescission Agreement between the Company, Telkoor Telecom Ltd. and Telkoor Power Supplies Ltd., dated September 4, 2016.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2016 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.   
     
10.3   Waiver Letter to Securities Purchase Agreement between the Company, Philou Ventures, LLC and Telkoor Telecom Ltd., dated September 20, 2016.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 22, 2016 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.4   Registration Rights Agreement, dated October 21, 2016.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2016 as Exhibit 10.4 thereto.   
     
10.5   Form of Subscription Agreement. Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 16, 2016 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.   
     
10.6   Form of Registration Rights Agreement, dated November 15, 2016.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 16, 2016 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.7*   Employment Agreement for Amos Kohn, dated November 30, 2016.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 5, 2016 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.   
     
10.8   2016 Stock Incentive Plan.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 30, 2016 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.9   Form of Subscription Agreement.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 17, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.10*   Amendment No. 1 to Executive Employment Agreement. Amos Kohn, dated February 22, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 27, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.

 

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Exhibit
Number
  Description
     
10.11   Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement between the Company and Philou Ventures, LLC, dated March 9, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.12   Registration Rights Agreement between the Company and Philou Ventures, LLC. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.13   Form of Subscription Agreement.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 4, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.14   Form of Subscription Agreement, dated May 1, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 31, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.15   Form of Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 31, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.16   Promissory Note issued by Microphase Corporation to the Company, dated June 2, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 8, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.17   Promissory Note issued by Microphase Corporation to the Company, dated June 2, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 8, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.18   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated July 25, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 26, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.19   Form of Exchange Agreement, dated July 28, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 31, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     

10.20

  Form of Subscription Agreement.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 31, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.21   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated July 28, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 31, 2017 as Exhibit 10.3 thereto.
     
10.22   Securities Purchase Agreement between William H. Gordon, Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC, and CooliSys Technologies Inc., dated August 3, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.23   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated August 3, 2017. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.24   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated August 10, 2017. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 11, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.25   Form of Registration Rights Agreement, dated August 10, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 11, 2017 as Exhibit 10.3 thereto.
     
10.26   Loan and Security Agreement between the Company and Avalanche International Corp., dated August 21, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.27*   Executive Employment Agreement for William Horne, dated October 6, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 12, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.28   Form of Subscription Agreement.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 19, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.

 

  68    
 

 

Exhibit
Number
  Description
     
10.29   Agreement for the Purchase and Sale of Future Receipts between the Company and TVT Capital, LLC, dated October 23, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 23, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.3   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 2, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.31   Form of Registration Rights Agreement.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 2, 2017 as Exhibit 10.3 thereto.
     
10.32   Form of Loan and Security Agreement between the Company and LAM, Inc., dated November 2, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 7, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.33   Form of Subscription Agreement, dated November 6, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 8, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.34   Trust Agreement between Coolisys Technologies Inc. and Roni Kohn, dated May 14, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 22, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.35   Tenancy-In-Common Agreement between Coolisys Technologies Inc. and Roni Kohn, dated May 14, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 22, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.36   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated December 4, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.37   Form of Registration Rights Agreement, dated December 4, 2017. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.38   Exchange Agreement between the Company and WT Johnson & Sons (Huddersfield) Limited, dated December 5, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.39   Form of Exchange Agreement, dated December 5, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     

10.40

  Form of Subscription Agreement, dated December 1, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 8, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.41   Form of Consulting Agreement.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 2, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.42   Agreement for the Purchase and Sale of Future Receipts between the Company and TVT Capital, LLC, dated January 10, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 16, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.43   Agreement for the Purchase and Sale of Future Receipts between the Company and TVT Capital, LLC, dated January 10, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 16, 2018 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.44   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated January 23, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 24, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.45   Form of Registration Rights Agreement, dated January 23, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 24, 2018 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.46*   Executive Employment Agreement for William Horne, dated January 25, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 25, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.

 

  69    
 

 

Exhibit

Number

  Description
10.47   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated January 23, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 12, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.48   Amendment to Securities Purchase Agreement, dated January 23, 2018, between the Company and Twitchell Fund, LLC.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 12, 2018 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.49   Sales Agreement between the Company and H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC, dated February 27, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 27, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.50   Asset Purchase Agreement between Super Crypto Mining, Inc. and Blockchain Supply & Services Ltd., dated March 8, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.51   Amended and Restated Master Services Agreement dated March 21, 2018 but effective March 1, 2018.  Filed herewith.  Confidential Portions have been redacted and a Request for Confidential Treatment has been filed separately with the Commission. Incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on April 17, 2018 as Exhibit 10.51 thereto.
     
10.52   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated March 23, 2018. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 26, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
10.53   Form of Note, dated March 23, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 26, 2018 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
     
10.54   Form of Amended and Restated Independent Contractor Agreement, dated April 13, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 13, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
     
21***   List of subsidiaries.
23.1***   Consent of Marcum LLP.
23.2***   Consent of Ziv Haft, BDO member firm.
31.1***   Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)
31.2***   Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)
32.1****   Certification of Chief Executive and Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code

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

 

                                       

* Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
** Confidential treatment is being sought for this agreement, which has been filed separately with the SEC. The confidential portions of this Exhibit have been omitted and are marked by asterisks.
*** Filed herewith.
**** Furnished herewith.

 

 

ITEM 16. FORM 10–K SUMMARY.

 

None.

 

  70    
 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

Dated:  April 16, 2019

 

 

  DPW HOLDINGS, INC.  
       
  By: /s/ Milton C. Ault, III  
    Milton C. Ault, III  
    Chief Executive Officer  
    (Principal Executive Officer)  
       
       
  By: /s/ William B. Horne  
    William B. Horne  
    Chief Financial Officer  
    (Principal Accounting Officer)  

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated.

 

 

 

April 16, 2019 /s/ Milton C. Ault, III  
 

 

Milton C. Ault, III, Chief Executive Officer and Executive

Chairman of the Board

 
     
April 16, 2019 /s/ William B. Horne  
 

 

William B. Horne, Chief Financial Officer and Director

 

 
     
April 16, 2019 /s/ Amos Kohn  
  Amos Kohn, President and Director  
     
April 16, 2019 /s/ Robert O. Smith  
  Robert O. Smith, Director  
     
April 16, 2019 /s/ Mordechai Rosenberg  
  Mordechai Rosenberg, Director  
     
April 16, 2019 /s/ Jeffrey A. Bentz  
  Jeffrey A. Bentz, Director  

 

  71    
 

 

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm – Marcum LLP F-2
   
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm – Ziv Haft. F-3
   
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 F-4 - F-5
   
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 F-6
   
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 F-7 - F-10
   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 F-11 - F-13
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-14 - F-76

 

  F- 1  
 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of

DPW Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of DPW Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive loss, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2018, 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 December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2018, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

We did not audit the financial statements of Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary, which statements reflect total assets and revenues constituting 19 percent and 20 percent, respectively, of the related consolidated totals. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd., is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

 

Explanatory Paragraph – Going Concern

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As more fully described in Note 2, the Company has a significant working capital deficiency, has incurred significant losses and needs to raise additional funds to meet its obligations and sustain its operations. These conditions 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 consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

/s/ Marcum llp

 

Marcum llp

 

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2016.

 

New York, NY
April 16, 2019

 

  F- 2  
 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

To the Board of Directors and Management of

ENERTEC SYSTEMS 2001 LTD

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of ENERTEC SYSTEMS 2001 LTD ("the company") as of December 31, 2018, the related statements of comprehensive loss, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the period from May 22, 2018 ended December 31, 2018, and the related notes (collectively, the financial statements). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the period started May 22, 2018 and ended December 31, 2018 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Going Concern

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As more fully described in Note 1, the Company has a working capital deficiency, has incurred significant losses and needs to raise additional funds to meet its obligations and sustain its operations. These conditions 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 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2012.

 

 

  /s/ Ziv Haft.
  Ziv Haft.
  Certified Public Accountants (Isr.)
  BDO Member Firm

 

 

Tel-Aviv, Israel

April 16, 2019

 

  F- 3  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

    December 31,  
    2018     2017  
ASSETS            
             
CURRENT ASSETS            
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 902,329     $ 1,478,147  
Marketable securities     178,597       1,834,570  
Accounts receivable     1,930,971       1,898,241  
Accounts and other receivable, related party     3,887,654       173,751  
Accrued revenue     1,353,411        

Inventories

    3,261,126       1,992,865  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets     775,981       1,407,104  
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS     12,290,069       8,784,678  
                 
Intangible assets     4,359,798       2,898,013  
Digital currencies     1,535        
Goodwill     8,463,070       3,651,984  
Property and equipment, net     9,313,299       1,216,847  
Investments - related party, net of original issue discount of $2,336,693                
  and $2,115,710, respectively     5,611,621       2,332,910  
Investments in warrants and common stock - related party     3,043,499       7,728,001  
Investments in preferred stock of private company     480,000       1,000,000  
Investments in real estate     1,969,000        
Other investments     2,572,230       1,637,672  
Other investments, related parties     862,500       915,464  
Other assets     459,259       343,325  
TOTAL ASSETS   $ 49,425,880     $ 30,508,894  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                
                 
CURRENT LIABILITIES                
Accounts payable and accrued expenses   $ 13,065,838     $ 4,273,242  
Accounts payable and accrued expenses, related party     57,752       69,855  
Advances on future receipts     2,085,807       1,962,965  
Short term advances           2,438,667  
Short term advances, related party     73,761       245,000  
Revolving credit facility     285,605       387,572  
Notes payable     6,388,787       402,234  
Notes payable, related party     166,925       133,569  
Convertible notes payable     6,742,494       397,878  
Other current liabilities     1,868,402       708,391  
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES     30,735,371       11,019,373  
                 
LONG TERM LIABILITIES                
Notes payable     483,659       525,492  
Notes payable, related parties     142,059       175,748  
                 
TOTAL LIABILITIES     31,361,089       11,720,613  

 

 

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

 

  F- 4  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (continued)  

 

  December 31,  
    2018     2017  
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES                
                 
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                
                 
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, $25.00 stated value per share,     1        
  $0.001 par value – 1,000,000 shares authorized; 1,434 and nil shares issued and                
    outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (redemption amount and liquidation                
   preference of $35,850 and nil as of December 31, 2018 and 2017)                
                 
Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, $10 stated value per share,     125       100  
  share, $0.001 par value – 500,000 shares authorized; 125,000 and 100,000 shares                
   issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively                
  (liquidation preference of $1,250,000 and $1,000,000 at December 31, 2018 and                
  2017, respectively)                
                 
Series D Convertible Preferred Stock, $0.01 stated value per           379  
  share, $0.001 par value – 378,776 shares authorized; nil and 378,776                
  shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017,                
  respectively (liquidation preference of $3,788 at December 31, 2017)                
Preferred Stock, $0.001 par value – 23,121,224 shares authorized; nil shares            
  issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017                
                 
Class A Common Stock, $0.001 par value – 500,000,000 shares authorized;     4,036       1,511  
 4,036,407 and 1,511,115 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018                
 and 2017, respectively                
Class B Common Stock, $0.001 par value – 25,000,000 shares authorized;            
 nil shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017                
Additional paid-in capital     77,643,609       36,916,659  
Accumulated deficit     (55,721,115 )     (23,414,151 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (3,902,523 )     4,503,046  
TOTAL DPW HOLDINGS STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY     18,024,132       18,007,544  
Non-controlling interest     40,658       780,737  
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY     18,064,790       18,788,281  
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY   $ 49,425,880     $ 30,508,894  

 

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

 

  F- 5  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHNSIVE LOSS

 

    For the Year Ended  
    December 31,  
    2018     2017  
             
Revenue   $ 17,762,217     $ 10,000,749  
Revenue, cryptocurrency mining     1,675,549        
Revenue, related party     3,907,280       173,751  
Revenue, restaurant operations     3,462,140        
Revenue, lending activities     347,033        
Total revenue     27,154,219       10,174,500  
Cost of revenue     21,774,658       6,325,027  
Gross profit     5,379,561       3,849,473  
                 
Operating expenses                
Engineering and product development     1,430,538       1,119,745  
Selling and marketing     3,010,790       1,721,050  
General and administrative     19,842,378       6,991,723  
Impairment loss on intangible assets     700,000        
Impairment loss on digital currency     1,311        
Total operating expenses     24,985,017       9,832,518  
                 
Loss from operations     (19,605,456 )     (5,983,045 )
Interest expense     (13,453,344 )     (4,990,397 )
Loss before income taxes     (33,058,800 )     (10,973,442 )
Income tax benefit     76,599       78,393  
Net loss     (32,982,201 )     (10,895,049 )
Less: Net loss attributable to                
non-controlling interest     748,320       278,818  
Net loss attributable to DPW Holdings     (32,233,881 )     (10,616,231 )
Preferred deemed dividends on Series B                
and Series C Preferred Stock     (108,049 )     (584,182 )
Preferred dividends on Series C Preferred Stock           (54,059 )
Net loss available to common stockholders   $ (32,341,930 )   $ (11,254,472 )
                 
Basic and diluted net loss per common share   $ (11.15 )   $ (18.05 )
                 
Basic and diluted weighted average common                
shares outstanding     2,899,888       623,583  
                 
Comprehensive Loss                
Loss available to common stockholders   $ (32,341,930 )   $ (11,254,472 )
Other comprehensive income (loss)                
Foreign currency translation adjustment     (377,823 )     152,078  
Net unrealized (loss) gain on securities available-for-sale     (8,027,746 )     5,171,743  
Other comprehensive income (loss)     (8,405,569 )     5,323,821  
Total Comprehensive loss   $ (40,747,499 )   $ (5,930,651 )

 

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

 

  F- 6  
 


 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

                                        Accumulated              
                            Additional           Other           Total  
    Preferred Stock     Common Stock     Paid-In     Accumulated     Comprehensive     Non-Controlling     Stockholders'  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Income (Loss)     Interest     Equity  
                                                       
BALANCES, January 1, 2017         $       383,882     $ 384     $ 16,534,243     $ (12,159,679 )   $ (820,775 )   $     $ 3,554,173  
Compensation expense due to stock option                                                                        
 issuances                               485,198                         485,198  
Compensation expense due to warrant                                                                        
issuances                               93,918                         93,918  
Issuance of common stock and warrants                                                                        
for cash                   136,482       136       1,962,549                         1,962,685  
Issuance of common stock for services                   108,067       108       1,662,594                         1,662,702  
Issuance of common stock for conversion                                                                        
of debt                   337,990       338       4,036,263                         4,036,601  
Issuance of common stock upon exercise                                                                        
of stock options                   18,073       18       556,999                         557,017  
Issuance of common stock upon exercise                                                                        
of warrants                   177,305       177       2,245,761                         2,245,938  
Issuance of Series B preferred stock for                                                                        
cash and warrants     50,000       50                   499,950                         500,000  
Issuance of Series B preferred stock for                                                                        
conversion of debt     50,000       50                   499,950                         500,000  
Issuance of Series C preferred stock for                                                                        
cash and warrants     433,335       433                   897,607                         898,040  
Issuance of Series C preferred stock for                                                                        
conversion of debt     21,667       22                   51,978                         52,000  
Issuance of common stock for conversion                                                                        
of Series C preferred stock     (455,002 )     (455 )     91,000       91       364                          
Issuance of Series D preferred stock and                                                                        
 common stock in acquisition of Microphase     378,776       379       92,122       92       1,450,569                   944,555       2,395,595  
Issuance of Series E preferred stock and                                                                        
 common stock in acquisition of Microphase     10,000       10                                           10  

   

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

 

  F- 7  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

                                      Accumulated              
                            Additional           Other           Total  
    Preferred Stock     Common Stock     Paid-In     Accumulated     Comprehensive     Non-Controlling     Stockholders'  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Income (Loss)     Interest     Equity  
                                                       
Issuance of common stock for conversion                                                                        
 of Series E preferred stock     (10,000 )     (10 )     30,000       30       470,870                         470,890  
Issuance of common stock in connection                                                                        
 with convertible notes                   22,500       23       399,488                         399,511  
Issuance of common stock for domain name                   2,500       3       30,950                         30,953  
Issuance of common stock and warrants                                                                        
 in satisfaction of subsidiary debt                   76,193       76       940,247                         940,323  
Issuance of common stock for acquisition                                                                        
 of debt due from related party                   30,000       30       599,970                         600,000  
Beneficial conversion feature in connection                                                                        
 with convertible notes                               786,797                         786,797  
Fair value of warrants issued in connection with                                                                        
 convertible notes                               2,133,822                         2,133,822  
Fair value of personal guarantees in connection                                                                        
 with debt financings                               75,259                         75,259  
Issuance of common stock for conversion of debt                                                                        
 owed by subsidiary to former stakeholder                                                 115,000       115,000  
Issuance of common stock and cash for                                                                        
 exchange fees and other financing costs                   5,000       5       (82,869 )                       (82,864 )
Comprehensive loss:                                                                        
Net loss                                     (10,616,231 )                 (10,616,231 )
Preferred dividends                                     (54,059 )                 (54,059 )
Preferred deemed dividends                               584,182       (584,182 )                  
Net unrealized gain on securities                                                                        
 available-for-sale, net of income taxes                                           5,171,743             5,171,743  
Foreign currency translation adjustments                                           152,078             152,078  
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest                                                 (278,818 )     (278,818 )
                                                                         
BALANCES, December 31, 2017     478,776     $ 479       1,511,115     $ 1,511     $ 36,916,659     $ (23,414,151 )   $ 4,503,046     $ 780,737     $ 18,788,281  

 

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

 

  F- 8  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY 

 

                                        Accumulated              
                            Additional           Other           Total  
    Preferred Stock     Common Stock     Paid-In     Accumulated     Comprehensive     Non-Controlling     Stockholders'  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Income (Loss)     Interest     Equity  
Compensation expense due to stock                                                                        
 option issuances                               1,043,908                         1,043,908  
Compensation expense due to warrant issuances                               93,914                         93,914  
Issuance of common stock and warrants for
cash
                  1,640,935       1,641       23,882,829                         23,884,470  
Issuance of common stock for services                   184,153       184       3,740,704                         3,740,888  
Issuance of common stock for conversion                                                                        
 of debt                   211,225       212       2,445,905                         2,446,117  
Issuance of common stock for conversion                                                                        
 of short-term advances                   181,608       182       2,819,402                         2,819,584  
Issuance of common stock upon exercise                                                                        
 of stock options                   3,000       3       97,797                         97,800  
Issuance of common stock upon exercise                                                                        
 of warrants                   107,282       107       867,059                         867,166  
Issuance of Series A preferred stock for cash     1,434       1                   35,849                         35,849  
Issuance of Series B preferred stock for                                                                        
 conversion of short-term advances     25,000       25                   249,975                         250,000  
Issuance of common stock for conversion                                                                        
 of Series E preferred stock     (378,776 )     (379 )     37,878       38       341                          
Issuance of common stock in connection                                                                        
 with convertible notes                   136,961       136       1,540,972                         1,541,108  
Repurchase of common stock                   (2,750 )     (3 )     (57,745 )                       (57,748 )
Beneficial conversion feature in connection                                                                        
with convertible notes                               2,555,952                         2,555,952  
Fair value of warrants issued in connection                                                                        
with convertible notes                               3,408,665                         3,408,665  

 

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

 

  F- 9  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

                                        Accumulated              
                            Additional           Other           Total  
    Preferred Stock     Common Stock     Paid-In     Accumulated     Comprehensive     Non-Controlling     Stockholders'  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Income (Loss)     Interest     Equity  
Cash for exchange fees and other financing costs                   25,000       25       (2,107,607 )                       (2,107,582 )
Non-controlling interest from acquisition of I. AM                               981                   33,241       34,222  
Non-controlling interest from Microphase                                                 (25,000 )     (25,000 )
Comprehensive loss:                                                                        
Net loss                                     (32,233,881 )                 (32,233,881 )
Preferred deemed dividends                               108,049       (108,049 )                  
Net unrealized loss on securities                                                                        
available-for-sale, net of income taxes                                           (8,027,746 )           (8,027,746 )
Foreign currency translation adjustments                                     34,966       (377,823 )           (342,857 )
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest                                                 (748,320 )     (748,320 )
                                                                         
BALANCES, December 31, 2018    

126,434

    $ 126       4,036,407     $ 4,036     $

77,643,609

    $ (55,721,115 )   $ (3,902,523 )   $ 40,658     $ 18,028,941  

 

The above Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity reflects a 1 for 20 reverse stock split effective March 14, 2019, see Note 1 for further information.   

 

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

 

  F- 10  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

    For the Years Ended December 31,  
    2018     2017  
             
Cash flows from operating activities:            
Net loss   $ (32,982,201 )   $ (10,895,049 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:                
Depreciation     2,447,249       193,671  
Amortization     459,656       60,335  
Interest expense – debt discount     11,191,055       4,688,630  
Impairment of intangible assets     700,000        
Accretion of original issue discount on notes receivable – related party     (2,004,358 )     (453,346 )
Accretion of original issue discount on notes receivable     (175,921 )      
Interest expense on conversion of promissory notes to common stock           13,333  
Deferred taxes           (225,488 )
Provision for bad debts           (32,729 )
Stock-based compensation     4,719,266       1,831,435  
Realized losses on sale of digital currencies     127,602        
Realized losses on sale of marketable securities     175,405        
Unrealized losses on trading securities     77,133        
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
Accounts receivable     2,754,631       285,146  
Accounts receivable, related party     (3,713,903 )     (173,751 )
Accrued revenue     (1,353,411 )      
Digital currencies     (1,633,630 )      
Inventories     13,137       100,156  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets     1,210,933       (763,559 )
Other investments, related party           (335,040 )
Other assets     (232,442 )     (70,846 )
Accounts payable and accrued expenses     6,850,263       1,515,870  
Accounts payable, related parties     (12,103 )     69,855  
Other current liabilities     959,235       74,813  
                 
Net cash used in operating activities     (10,422,404 )     (4,116,564 )
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:                
Purchase of property and equipment     (8,919,532 )     (402,779 )
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment           16,595  
Loss on dispositon of asset     22,172        
Purchase of intangible asset     (3,025 )     (50,000 )
Purchase of Power Plus           (377,661 )
Purchase of Enertec     (4,936,562 )      
Cash received on acquisitions     293,041       110,982  
Investments – related party     (1,244,353 )     (3,200,554 )
Related party investment in real property     (1,969,000 )      
Investment in real property           (300,000 )
Investments in warrants and common stock - related party     (2,672,510 )      
Investments in marketable securities     (858,458 )     (1,485,652 )
Sales of marketable securities     2,188,292       63,606  
Sales of digital currencies     64,587        
Investments - others     (25,000 )      
Loans to third party            
Loans to related parties           (44,000 )
Proceeds from loans to related parties     12,520       35,000  
Investments in debt and equity securities     (2,571,100 )     (3,039,500 )
                 
Net cash used in investing activities   $ (20,618,928 )   $ (8,673,963 )

 

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

 

  F- 11  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (continued)

 

    For the Years Ended December 31,  
    2018     2017  
             
Cash flows from financing activities:            
Gross proceeds from sales of common stock and warrants   $ 23,884,470     $ 2,035,147  
Repurchase of common stock     (57,747 )      
Proceeds from issuance of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock     33,699        
Proceeds from issuance of Series B and C Convertible Preferred Stock           1,540,000  
Financing cost in connection with sales of equity securities     (2,107,582 )     (297,341 )
Proceeds from stock option exercises     97,800       557,360  
Proceeds from warrant exercises     867,166       2,245,938  
Proceeds from convertible notes payable     11,550,000       2,918,200  
Proceeds from notes payable – related party           350,000  
Proceeds from notes payable     12,994,999       857,000  
Proceeds from short-term advances – related party     136,761        
Proceeds from short-term advances     762,000       2,439,000  
Payments on short-term advances     (646,500 )      
Payments on notes payable – related party     (333 )      
Payments on short-term advances – related party     (13,000 )     245,000  
Payments on notes payable     (12,133,140 )     (190,000 )
Payments on convertible notes payable     (2,362,281 )     (157,000 )
Proceeds from advances on future receipts     3,350,277       2,889,175  
Payments on advances on future receipts     (5,505,079 )     (1,526,125 )
Payments of preferred dividends           (35,494 )
Financing cost in connection with sales of debt securities           (122,650 )
Payments on revolving credit facilities, net     (313,822 )     (524,710 )
                 
Net cash provided by financing activities     30,537,688       13,223,500  
                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents     (72,174 )     49,000  
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     (575,818 )     481,973  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period     1,478,147       996,174  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period   $ 902,329     $ 1,478,147  

 

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

 

  F- 12  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (continued)

 

 

    For the Years Ended December 31,  
    2018     2017  
             
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:            
Cash paid during the period for interest   $ 760,208     $ 271,129  
                 
Non-cash investing and financing activities:                
Cancellation of convertible note payable into shares of common stock   $ 2,446,116     $ 2,497,721  
Cancellation of convertible note payable, related party into shares of common stock   $ -     $ 530,000  
Cancellation of short term advances into shares of common stock   $ 2,554,167     $  
Cancellation of short term advances, related party into shares of common stock   $ 45,000     $  
Cancellation of short term advances, related party into shares of Series B Preferrred Stock   $ 250,000     $  
Payment of debt with digital currency   $ 739,967     $  
Purchase of assets with digital currency   $ 250,460     $  
Payment of accounts payable with digital currency   $ 449,479     $  
Issuance of common stock for prepaid services   $ 50,000     $  
Cancellation of notes payable – related party into shares of                
common stock   $     $ 369,334  
Cancellation of notes payable into shares of common stock   $     $ 2,204,365  
Cancellation of note payable – related party into series B                
convertible preferred stock   $     $ 500,000  
Issuance of common stock for domain name   $     $ 31,000  
Issuance of common stock for prepaid services   $     $ 410,000  
                 
                 
In connection with the Company's acquisition of Microphase Corporation, equity instruments were                
issued and liabilities assumed during 2017 as follows:                
                 
Fair value of assets acquired   $ 7,907,744          
Equity instruments issued     (1,451,040 )        
Non-controlling interest     (945,555 )        
Liabilities assumed   $ 5,511,149          

 

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

 

  F- 13  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

 

DPW Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“DPW” or the “Company”), formerly known as Digital Power Corporation, was incorporated in September 2017. The Company is a diversified holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in the following operating businesses: commercial and defense solutions, commercial lending, cryptocurrency blockchain mining, advanced textile technology and restaurant operations. The Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries are Coolisys Technologies, Inc. (“Coolisys”), Digital Power Limited (“DP Limited”), Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd (“ Enertec ”), Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC (“Power-Plus”), Digital Power Lending, LLC (“DP Lending”) and Digital Farms, Inc. (“Digital Farms”), formerly known as Super Crypto Mining, Inc . The Company also has controlling interests in Microphase Corporation (“Microphase”) and I. AM, Inc. (“I.AM”) . The Company has five reportable segments – North America with operations conducted by Microphase, Coolisys, Power-Plus and DP Lending, Europe with operations through DP Limited, Middle East with operations through Enertec, digital currency blockchain mining through Digital Farms and restaurant operations through I.AM.

 

On March 14, 2019,  pursuant to the authorization provided by the Company’s stockholders at a Special Meeting of Stockholders, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the Certificate of Incorporation Amendment (the “COI Amendment”) to effectuate a reverse stock split of the Common Stock affecting both the authorized and issued and outstanding number of such shares by a ratio of one-for-twenty (the “Reverse Stock Split”) .

 

2. LIQUIDITY, GOING CONCERN AND MANAGEMENT’S PLANS

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the basis that the Company will continue as a going concern. As of December 31, 2018, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $902,329, an accumulated deficit of $55,721,115 and a negative working capital of $18,445,302. The Company has incurred recurring losses and reported losses for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, totaled $32,233,881 and $10,616,231, respectively. In the past, the Company has financed its operations principally through issuances of convertible debt, promissory notes and equity securities. During 2018, the Company continued to successfully obtain additional equity and debt financing and in restructuring existing debt.

 

The Company expects to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future and needs to raise additional capital to continue its business development initiatives and to support its working capital requirements. In March 2017, the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million purchase order by MTIX Ltd. (“MTIX”) to manufacture, install and service the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“MLSE”) plasma-laser system. Currently, the Company has subcontracted out a significant amount of these services to third parties. Management believes that the MLSE purchase order will be a source of revenue and generate significant cash flows for the Company. Additionally, on April 2, 2019, the Company received gross proceeds of approximately $7 million in a public offering of its securities (See Note 28). Management believes that the Company has access to capital resources through potential public or private issuances of debt or equity securities. However, if the Company is unable to raise additional capital, it may be required to curtail operations and take additional measures to reduce costs, including reducing its workforce, eliminating outside consultants and reducing legal fees to conserve its cash in amounts sufficient to sustain operations and meet its obligations. These matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The accompanying financial statements do not include any adjustments that might become necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.

 

3. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).

 

  F- 14  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Principles of Consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of DPW and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Coolisys, DP Limited, Power-Plus, Enertec, DP Lending and Digital Farms and its majority-owned subsidiaries, Microphase and I.AM. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Accounting Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with U.S. GAAP, requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions. The Company's management believes that the estimates, judgments and assumptions used are reasonable based upon information available at the time they are made. These estimates, judgments and assumptions can affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Key estimates include acquisition accounting, fair value of certain financial instruments, reserve for trade receivables and inventories, carrying amounts of investments, fair value of digital currencies, accruals of certain liabilities including product warranties, useful lives and depreciation, and deferred income taxes and related valuation allowance.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company recognizes revenue under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . The core principle of the new revenue standard is that a company should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The following five steps are applied to achieve that core principle:

 

· Step 1: Identify the contract with the customer,
· Step 2: Identify the performance obligations in the contract,
· Step 3: Determine the transaction price,
· Step 4: Allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and
· Step 5: Recognize revenue when the company satisfies a performance obligation.

 

The Company’s disaggregated revenues consist of the following for the year ended December 31, 2018:

 

    Year ended December 31, 2018  
                      Digital              
    DPC     DPL     Enertec     Farms     I.AM     Total  
                                     
Primary Geographical                                                
Markets                                                
North America   $ 13,875,883     $ 11,804     $     $ 1,675,549     $ 3,462,140     $ 19,025,376  
Europe     159,350       1,656,516                         1,815,866  
Middle East                 5,226,075                   5,226,075  
Other     718,692       368,210                         1,086,902  
    $ 14,753,925     $ 2,036,530     $ 5,226,075     $ 1,675,549     $ 3,462,140     $ 27,154,219  
                                                 
Major Goods                                                
RF/Microwave Filters   $ 3,331,575     $     $     $     $     $ 3,331,575  
Detector logarithmic                                                
 video amplifiers     1,338,912                               1,338,912  
Power Supply Units     5,829,125                               5,829,125  
Power Supply Systems           2,036,530                         2,036,530  
Healthcare diagnostic systems                 1,715,512                   1,715,512  
Defense systems                 3,510,563                   3,510,563  
Digital Currency Mining                       1,675,549             1,675,549  
Restaurant operations                             3,462,140       3,462,140  
Lending activities     347,033                               347,033  
MLSE Systems     3,907,280                               3,907,280  
    $ 14,753,925     $ 2,036,530     $ 5,226,075     $ 1,675,549     $ 3,462,140     $ 27,154,219  
                                                 
Timing of Revenue                                                
Recognition                                                
Goods transferred at a                                                
 a point in time   $ 10,846,645     $ 1,411,798     $     $ 1,675,549     $ 3,462,140     $ 17,396,132  
Services transferred over time     3,907,280       624,732       5,226,075                   9,758,087  
    $ 14,753,925     $ 2,036,530     $ 5,226,075     $ 1,675,549     $ 3,462,140     $ 27,154,219  

 

  F- 15  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Sales of Products

 

The Company generates revenues from the sale of its products through a direct and indirect sales force. The Company’s performance obligations to deliver products are satisfied at the point in time when products are received by the customer, which is when the customer has title and the significant risks and rewards of ownership. The Company provides standard assurance warranties, which are not separately priced, that the products function as intended. The Company primarily receives fixed consideration for sales of product. Some of the Company’s contracts with distributors include stock rotation rights after six months for slow moving inventory, which represents variable consideration. The Company uses an expected value method to estimate variable consideration and constrains revenue for estimated stock rotations until it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur. To date, returns have been insignificant. The Company’s customers generally pay within 30 days from the receipt of a valid invoice.

 

Because the Company’s product sales agreements have an expected duration of one year or less, the Company has elected to adopt the practical expedient in ASC 606-10-50-14(a) of not disclosing information about its remaining performance obligations.

 

Manufacturing Services

 

The Company provides manufacturing services in exchange primarily for fixed fees, however, the initial two MLSE units are subject to variable pricing under the $50 million purchase order from MTIX. Under the terms of the MLSE purchase order, the Company shall be entitled to cost plus $100,000 for the manufacture of the first two MLSE units. The Company has determined that the costs of manufacturing the MLSE units will decline over time due to the effects of a learning curve which will result in a great amount of revenue being recognized for these initial two MLSE units.

 

For manufacturing services, which include revenues generated by Enertec and in certain instances revenues generated by DPL, the Company’s performance obligation for manufacturing services is satisfied over time as the Company creates or enhances an asset that the customer controls as the asset is created or enhanced. Generally, the Company recognizes revenue based upon proportional performance over time using a cost to cost method which measures progress based on the costs incurred to total expected costs in satisfying its performance obligation. This method provides a depiction of the progress in providing the manufacturing service because there is a direct relationship between the costs incurred by the Company and the transfer of the manufacturing service to the customer. Manufacturing services that are recognized based upon the proportional performance method are included in the above table as services transferred over time and to the extent the customer has not been invoiced for these revenues, as accrued revenue in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Revisions to the Company’s estimates may result in increases or decreases to revenues and income and are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the periods in which they are first identified.

 

The Company has elected the practical expedient to not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component to the extent that the period between when the Company transfers its promised good or service to the customer and when the customer pays is one year or less.

 

  F- 16  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to the performance obligation that is partially unsatisfied as of December 31, 2018 for the MLSE units was approximately $48 million. The Company expects to recognize the remaining revenue related to the partially unsatisfied performance obligation over the next two and a half years. The Company will be paid in installments for this performance obligation over the next two and a half years.

 

Blockchain Mining

 

The Company derives its revenue by providing transaction verification services within the digital currency networks of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash and Litecoin. The Company satisfies its performance obligation at the point in time that which the Company is awarded a unit of digital currency through its participation in the applicable network and network participants benefit from the Company’s verification service. In consideration for these services, the Company receives digital currencies which are recorded as revenue, using the closing U. S. dollar price of the related cryptocurrency on the date of receipt. Expenses associated with running the cryptocurrency mining business, such as equipment deprecation and electricity cost are recorded as a component of cost of revenues.

 

Restaurant Operations

 

The Company records revenue from restaurant sales at the time of sale, net of discounts, coupons, employee meals and complimentary meals and gift cards. Restaurant cost of sales primarily includes the cost of good, beverages, and merchandise and disposable paper and plastic goods used in preparing and selling the Company’s menu items, and exclude depreciation and amortization. Vendor allowances received in connection with the purchase of a vendor’s products are recognized as a reduction of the related food and beverage costs as earned.

 

Foreign Currency Translation

 

A substantial portion of the Company’s revenues are generated in U.S. dollars (“U.S. dollar”). In addition, a substantial portion of the Company’s costs are incurred in U.S. dollars. Company management has determined that the U.S. dollar is the functional currency of the primary economic environment in which it operates.

 

Accordingly, monetary accounts maintained in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are re-measured into U.S. dollars in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) No. 830, Foreign Currency Matters (“ASC No. 830”). All transaction gains and losses from the re-measurement of monetary balance sheet items are reflected in the statements of operations as financial income or expenses as appropriate.

 

The financial statements of DPL and Enertec, whose functional currencies have been determined to be their local currencies, the British Pound (“GBP”) and the Israeli Shekel (“ILS”), have been translated into U.S. dollars in accordance with ASC No. 830.  All balance sheet accounts have been translated using the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Statement of operations amounts have been translated using the average exchange rate in effect for the reporting period. The resulting translation adjustments are reported as other comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) and accumulated comprehensive income (loss) in statement of changes in stockholders' equity (deficit).

 

  F- 17  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist of cash and cash equivalents. The Company’s cash is maintained in checking accounts, money market funds and certificates of deposits with reputable financial institutions. These balances may, at times, exceed the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits. The Company has cash and cash equivalents of $409,945 and $292,153 at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, in the United Kingdom (“U.K”) and $60,040 and nil, respectively, in Israel. The Company has not experienced any losses on deposits of cash and cash equivalents.

 

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

The Company’s receivables are recorded when billed and represent claims against third parties that will be settled in cash. The carrying amount of the Company’s receivables, net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, represents their estimated net realizable value. The Company individually reviews all accounts receivable balances and based upon an assessment of current creditworthiness, estimates the portion, if any, of the balance that will not be collected. The Company estimates the allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical collection trends, age of outstanding receivables and existing economic conditions. If events or changes in circumstances indicate that a specific receivable balance may be impaired, further consideration is given to the collectability of those balances and the allowance is adjusted accordingly. A customer’s receivable balance is considered past-due based on its contractual terms. Past-due receivable balances are written-off when the Company’s internal collection efforts have been unsuccessful in collecting the amount due. Based on an assessment as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, of the collectability of invoices, accounts receivable are presented net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $5,000 and $5,000, respectively.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Inventory write-offs are provided to cover risks arising from slow-moving items or technological obsolescence.

 

Cost of inventories is determined as follows:

 

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

 

Work-in-progress and finished products - on the basis of direct manufacturing costs with the addition of indirect manufacturing costs.

 

The Company periodically assesses its inventories valuation in respect of obsolete and slow-moving items by reviewing revenue forecasts and technological obsolescence. When inventories on hand exceed the foreseeable demand or become obsolete, the value of excess inventory, which at the time of the review was not expected to be sold, is written off.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company did not record inventory write-offs within the cost of revenue.

 

Property and Equipment, Net

 

Property and equipment as well as an intangible asset are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Depreciation and amortization are calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, at the following annual rates:

 

    Useful lives (in years)
     
Computer, software and related equipment   3 - 5
Office furniture and equipment   5 - 10
Leasehold improvements   Over the term of the lease or the life of the asset, whichever is shorter.

 

  F- 18  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Goodwill

 

The Company evaluates its goodwill for impairment in accordance with ASC 350,  Intangibles – Goodwill and Other . Goodwill is recorded when the purchase price paid for an acquisition exceeds the estimated fair value of the net identified tangible and intangible assets acquired.

 

The Company tests the recorded amount of goodwill for impairment on an annual basis on December 31 of each fiscal year or more frequently if there are indicators that the carrying amount of the goodwill exceeds its carried value. At December 31, 2018, the Company had five reporting units. The Company performed a qualitative assessment and concluded that no impairment existed as of December 31, 2018.

    

Intangible Assets

 

The Company acquired amortizable intangibles assets as part of three asset purchase agreements consisting of customer lists and non-compete agreements. The Company also has the trade names and trademarks associated with the acquisitions of Microphase and I.AM which were determined to have an indefinite life. The Company’s intangible assets, net also include definite lived intangible assets, which are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives as follows:

 

    Useful lives (in years)
Customer list   5 - 14
Non-competition agreements   3
Domain name and other intangible assets   3

 

The Company reviews intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable. Factors that the Company considers in deciding when to perform an impairment review include significant underperformance of the business in relation to expectations, significant negative industry or economic trends, and significant changes or planned changes in the use of the assets. If an impairment review is performed to evaluate a long-lived asset for recoverability, the Company compares forecasts of undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the long-lived asset to its carrying value. An impairment loss would be recognized when estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of an asset are less than its carrying amount. The impairment loss would be based on the excess of the carrying value of the impaired asset over its fair value, determined based on discounted cash flows. No impairments were recorded on intangible assets as no impairment indicators were noted for the periods presented in these consolidated financial statements.

 

Long-Lived Assets

 

The long-lived assets of the Company are reviewed for impairment in accordance with ASC No. 360,  Property, Plant, and Equipment , whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, no impairment charges were necessary.

 

  F- 19  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Warranty

 

The Company offers a warranty period for all its manufactured products. Warranty periods range from one to two years depending on the product. The Company estimates the costs that may be incurred under its warranty and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time product revenue is recognized. Factors that affect the Company's warranty liability include the number of units sold, historical rates of warranty claims and cost per claim. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liability and adjusts the amounts as necessary. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s accrued warranty liability was $86,495.

  

Income Taxes

 

The Company determines its income taxes under the asset and liability method in accordance with FASB ASC No. 740,  Income Taxes , which requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are based on the differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the fiscal year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent management concludes it is more likely than not that the assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the fiscal years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income in the period that includes the enactment date.

 

The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC No. 740-10-25 .  ASC No. 740-10-25 addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under ASC No. 740-10-25, the Company may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit to be recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. To the extent that the final tax outcome of these matters is different than the amount recorded, such differences impact income tax expense in the period in which such determination is made. Interest and penalties, if any, related to accrued liabilities for potential tax assessments are included in income tax expense. ASC No. 740-10-25 also requires management to evaluate tax positions taken by the Company and recognize a liability if the Company has taken uncertain tax positions that more likely than not would not be sustained upon examination by applicable taxing authorities. Management of the Company has evaluated tax positions taken by the Company and has concluded that as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, there are no uncertain tax positions taken, or expected to be taken, that would require recognition of a liability that would require disclosure in the financial statements. The Company has not yet filed its 2016 or 2017 tax returns.

 

Common Stock Purchase Warrants and Other Derivative Financial Instruments

 

The Company classifies common stock purchase warrants and other free standing derivative financial instruments as equity if the contracts (i) require physical settlement or net-share settlement or (ii) give the Company a choice of net-cash settlement or settlement in its own shares (physical settlement or net-share settlement). The Company classifies any contracts that (i) require net-cash settlement (including a requirement to net cash settle the contract if an event occurs and if that event is outside the control of the Company), (ii) give the counterparty a choice of net-cash settlement or settlement in shares (physical settlement or net-share settlement), or (iii) contain reset provisions as either an asset or a liability. The Company assesses classification of its freestanding derivatives at each reporting date to determine whether a change in classification between assets and liabilities is required. The Company determined that certain freestanding derivatives, which principally consist of issuance of warrants to purchase shares of common stock in connection with convertible notes and to employees of the Company, satisfy the criteria for classification as equity instruments as these warrants do not contain cash settlement features or variable settlement provision that cause them to not be indexed to the Company’s own stock.

 

  F- 20  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC No. 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation ( “ASC No. 718” ). Under ASC No. 718, compensation expense related to stock-based payments is recorded over the requisite service period based on the grant date fair value of the awards. Compensation previously recorded for unvested stock options that are forfeited is reversed upon forfeiture. The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model for determining the estimated fair value for stock-based awards. The Black-Scholes model requires the use of assumptions which determine the fair value of stock-based awards, including the option’s expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock.

 

The Company’s accounting policy for equity instruments issued to consultants and vendors in exchange for goods and services follows the provisions of ASC No. 505-50, Equity Based Payments to Non-Employees . Accordingly, the measurement date for the fair value of the equity instruments issued is determined at the earlier of (i) the date at which a commitment for performance by the consultant or vendor is reached or (ii) the date at which the consultant or vendor’s performance is complete. In the case of equity instruments issued to consultants, the fair value of the equity instrument is recognized over the term of the consulting agreement.

 

Convertible Instruments

 

The Company accounts for hybrid contracts that feature conversion options in accordance with ASC No. 815, Derivatives and Hedging Activities ( “ASC No. 815” ). ASC No. 815 requires companies to bifurcate conversion options from their host instruments and account for them as freestanding derivative financial instruments according to certain criteria. The criteria includes circumstances in which (a) the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative instrument are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract, (b) the hybrid instrument that embodies both the embedded derivative instrument and the host contract is not re-measured at fair value under otherwise applicable GAAP with changes in fair value reported in earnings as they occur and (c) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative instrument would be considered a derivative instrument.

  

Conversion options that contain variable settlement features such as provisions to adjust the conversion price upon subsequent issuances of equity or equity linked securities at exercise prices more favorable than that featured in the hybrid contract generally result in their bifurcation from the host instrument.

 

The Company accounts for convertible instruments, when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should not be bifurcated from their host instruments, in accordance with ASC No. 470-20, Debt with Conversion and Other Options ( “ASC No. 470-20” ). Under ASC No. 470-20 the Company records, when necessary, discounts to convertible notes for the intrinsic value of conversion options embedded in debt instruments based upon the differences between the fair value of the underlying common stock at the commitment date of the note transaction and the effective conversion price embedded in the note. The Company accounts for convertible instruments (when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should be bifurcated from their host instruments) in accordance with ASC No. 815.

   

Concentration of Credit Risk

 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and trade receivables.

 

Cash and cash equivalents are invested in banks in the U.S., UK and Israel. Such deposits in the United States may be in excess of insured limits and are not insured in other jurisdictions.

 

Trade receivables of the Company and its subsidiaries are mainly derived from sales to customers located primarily in the U.S., Europe and Israel. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and to date has not experienced any material losses. An allowance for doubtful accounts is determined with respect to those amounts that the Company and its subsidiaries have determined to be doubtful of collection.

 

  F- 21  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

The Company reports comprehensive loss in accordance with ASC No. 220, Comprehensive Income . This statement establishes standards for the reporting and presentation of comprehensive loss and its components in a full set of general purpose financial statements. Comprehensive loss generally represents all changes in equity during the period except those resulting from investments by, or distributions to, stockholders. The Company determined that its items of other comprehensive loss relate to changes in foreign currency translation adjustments, unrealized gains on its marketable securities and unrealized gains and losses in its warrants and common stock in AVLP, a related party.

 

Fair value of Financial Instruments

   

In accordance with ASC No. 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures , fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received for the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date.

 

The guidance also establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability and are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about the factors that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability. The guidance establishes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

 

Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 

Level 2: Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or model-derived valuations. All significant inputs used in our valuations are observable or can be derived principally from or corroborated with observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs also include quoted prices that were adjusted for security-specific restrictions which are compared to output from internally developed models such as a discounted cash flow models.

 

Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

 

The carrying amounts of financial instruments carried at cost, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivables and accounts and other receivable – related party, investments, notes receivable, trade payables and trade payables – related party approximate their fair value due to the short-term maturities of such instruments.

 

As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the fair value of the Company’s investments were $3,256,468 and $9,562,571, respectively, and were concentrated in equity securities of Avalanche International Corp., which we refer to as AVLP, a related party (See Note 10), which are classified as available-for-sale investments. At December 31, 2018, the Company's investment in AVLP included marketable equity securities of $812,858 and warrants to purchase 13,887,993 shares of AVLP common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share of common stock with an aggregate fair value of $3,043,499. At December 31, 2017, the Company's investment in AVLP included marketable equity securities of $826,408 and warrants to purchase 8,248,440 shares of AVLP common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share of common stock with an aggregate fair value of $7,728,001. For investments in marketable equity securities, the Company took into consideration general market conditions, the duration and extent to which the fair value is above cost, and the Company’s ability and intent to hold the investment for a sufficient period of time to allow for recovery of value in the foreseeable future. As a result of this analysis, the Company has determined that its investment in AVLP’s marketable equity securities are valued based upon the closing market price of common stock at December 31, 2018 and 2017, which resulted in an unrealized gain of $119,329 and $550,048, respectively.

 

  F- 22  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

At December 31, 2018, the Company held shares of common stock in one company that it had purchased at the market, for a total cost of $220,880 with an aggregate fair value of $178,597. In accordance with ASC No. 320-10, this investment is accounted for based upon the closing market price of the respective common stock at December 31, 2018 and 2017, resulting in an unrealized loss of $42,283 and unrealized gain of $133,067, respectively.

 

The categorization of a financial instrument within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The following table sets forth the Company’s financial instruments that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy:

 

    Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2018  
    Total     Level 1     Level 2     Level 3  
Investments in common stock and warrants of
AVLP – a related party
  $ 3,043,499     $ 812,858     $     $ 2,230,641  
Investments in marketable securities     178,597       178,597              
Investments in warrants of public companies     34,372                   34,372  
Total Investments   $ 3,256,468     $ 991,455     $     $ 2,265,013  

 

    Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2017  
    Total     Level 1     Level 2     Level 3  
Investments in common stock and warrants of
AVLP – a related party
  $ 7,728,001     $ 826,408     $     $ 6,901,593  
Investments in marketable securities     1,834,570       1,834,570           $  
Total Investments   $ 9,562,571     $ 2,660,978     $     $ 6,901,593  

 

We assess the inputs used to measure fair value using thee three-tier hierarchy based on the extent to which inputs used in measuring fair value are observable in the market.

 

Debt Discounts

 

The Company accounts for debt discount according to ASC No. 470-20, Debt with Conversion and Other Options . Debt discounts are amortized through periodic charges to interest expense over the term of the related financial instrument using the effective interest method. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded amortization of debt discounts of $11,191,056 and $4,688,630, respectively.

 

Net Loss per Share

 

Net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. The calculation of the basic and diluted earnings per share is the same for all periods presented, as the effect of the potential common stock equivalents is anti-dilutive due to the Company’s net loss position for all periods presented. Anti-dilutive securities, which are convertible into the Company’s Class A common stock, consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017:

 

    2018     2017  
Stock options     373,000       192,125  
Warrants     936,381       219,443  
Convertible notes     999,641       64,197  
Preferred stock     127,551       109,306  
Total     2,436,573       585,071  

 

  F- 23  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for comparative purposes to conform to the current-year financial statement presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on previously reported results of operations. In addition, certain prior year amounts from the restated amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the current period presentation.

 

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) , (“ASU 2014-09”). ASU 2014-09 supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC 605 - Revenue Recognition (“ASC 605”) and most industry-specific guidance throughout ASC 605. The FASB has issued numerous updates that provide clarification on a number of specific issues as well as requiring additional disclosures. The core principle of ASC 606 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 company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.

 

The Company adopted ASC 606 effective January 1, 2018 to all contracts using the modified retrospective approach. The adoption of ASU 2014-09 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations, equity or cash flows.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) , (“ASU 2016-02”) in order to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by, among other provisions, recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for those leases classified as operating leases under previous U.S. GAAP. For public companies, ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (including interim periods within those periods) using a modified retrospective approach and early adoption is permitted.  In transition, entities may also elect a package of practical expedients that must be applied in its entirety to all leases commencing before the adoption date, unless the lease is modified, and permits entities to not reassess (a) the existence of a lease, (b) lease classification or (c) determination of initial direct costs, as of the adoption date, which effectively allows entities to carryforward accounting conclusions under previous U.S. GAAP. In July 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements , which provides entities an optional transition method to apply the guidance under Topic 842 as of the adoption date, rather than as of the earliest period presented.  The Company adopted Topic 842 on January 1, 2019, using the optional transition method to apply the new guidance as of January 1, 2019, rather than as of the earliest period presented, and elected the package of practical expedients described above. The Company expects to recognize additional operating liabilities of approximately $4.2 million, with corresponding ROU assets of approximately the same amount as of January 1, 2019 based on the present value of the remaining lease payments.

 

In July 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-11, Earnings per Share (Topic 260), Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (Topic 480), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) (“ASU 2017-11”). ASU 2017-11 consists of two parts. The amendments in Part I of this update change the classification analysis of certain equity-linked financial instruments (or embedded features) with down round features. When determining whether certain financial instruments should be classified as liabilities or equity instruments, a down round feature no longer precludes equity classification when assessing whether the instrument is indexed to an entity’s own stock. The amendments also clarify existing disclosure requirements for equity-classified instruments. As a result, a freestanding equity-linked financial instrument (or embedded conversion option) no longer would be accounted for as a derivative liability at fair value as a result of the existence of a down round feature. For freestanding equity classified financial instruments, the amendments require entities that present earnings per share (“EPS”) in accordance with Topic 260 to recognize the effect of the down round feature when it is triggered. That effect is treated as a dividend and as a reduction of income available to common stockholders in basic EPS. Convertible instruments with embedded conversion options that have down round features are now subject to the specialized guidance for contingent beneficial conversion features (in Subtopic 470-20, Debt—Debt with Conversion and Other Options), including related EPS guidance (in Topic 260). The amendments in Part II of this update re-characterize the indefinite deferral of certain provisions of Topic 480 that now are presented as pending content in the Codification, to a scope exception. Those amendments do not have an accounting effect. For public business entities, the amendments in Part I of this update are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. For all other entities, the amendments in Part I of this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. Early adoption is permitted for all entities, including adoption in an interim period. If an entity early adopts the amendments in an interim period, any adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. The amendments in Part II of this update do not require any transition guidance because those amendments do not have an accounting effect. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures but does not expect it to have a material impact.

 

  F- 24  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-07,  Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting , (“ASU 2018-07”). ASU 2018-07 simplifies the accounting for share-based payments granted to nonemployees for goods and services. Under ASU 2018-07, most of the guidance on such payments to nonemployees would be aligned with the requirements for share-based payments granted to employees. The changes take effect for public companies for fiscal years starting after Dec. 15, 2018, including interim periods within that fiscal year. For all other entities, the amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. Early adoption is permitted, but no earlier than an entity’s adoption date of Topic 606. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures but does not expect it to have a material impact.

 

4. Digital Currencies

 

The following table presents additional information about digital currencies:

 

    Digital
Currencies
 
Balance at January 1, 2017   $  
Additions of digital currencies     1,634,941  
Payment on convertible notes payable     (739,967 )
Payments to vendors     (449,479 )
Purchase of fixed assets     (250,460 )
Realized loss on sale of digital currencies     (127,602 )
Cash proceeds     (64,587 )
Unrealized loss on digital currencies     (1,311 )
Balance at December 31, 2018   $ 1,535  

 

At December 31, 2018, the Company’s digital currencies consisted of Bitcoin Cash and Litecoin. Digital currencies are recorded at cost on the date they are received as revenues and are tested for impairment at each reporting date. Fair value is determined by taking the closing price from the most liquid exchanges.

 

  F- 25  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

5. Marketable Securities

Marketable securities in equity securities with readily determinable market prices consisted of the following as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

 

    Available-for-sale securities at December 31, 2018  
          Gross unrealized   Gross realized      
    Cost     gains (losses)   gains (losses)   Fair value  
Common shares     $ 220,880     ($42,283)   $   $ 178,597  

 

    Available-for-sale securities at December 31, 2017  
        Gross unrealized   Gross realized      
    Cost     gains (losses)   gains (losses)   Fair value  
  Common shares     $ 1,701,503     $133,067   $   $ 1,834,570  

 

The following table presents additional information about marketable securities:

 

Balance at January 1, 2018   $ 1,834,570  
Purchases of marketable securities     858,458  
Sales of marketable securities     (2,188,292 )
Realized losses on marketable securities     (175,405 )
Unrealized gains on marketable securities     (150,734 )
Balance at December 31, 2018   $ 178,597  

 

Available-for-sale Securities

 

At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had invested in the marketable securities of certain publicly traded companies. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded an unrealized loss of $42,283 and an unrealized gain of $133,067, respectively, representing the difference between the cost basis and the estimated fair value, as accumulated other comprehensive income in the stockholder's equity section of the Company’s consolidated balance sheet and as a change in unrealized gains and losses on marketable securities in the Company’s consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). The Company’s investment in marketable securities will be revalued on each balance sheet date.  The fair value of the Company’s holdings in marketable securities at December 31, 2018 and 2017 is a Level 1 measurement based on quoted prices in an active market.

 

6. INVENTORIES

 

At December 31, 2018 and 2017, inventories consist of:

 

    2018     2017  
Raw materials, parts and supplies   $ 2,026,839     $ 541,816  
Work-in-progress     483,706       685,410  
Finished products     750,581       765,639  
Total inventories   $ 3,261,126     $ 1,992,865  

 

7. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

 

At December 31, 2018 and 2017, property and equipment consist of:

 

    2018     2017  
Cryptocurrency machines and related equipment   $ 9,168,928     $  
Computer, software and related equipment     2,495,470       2,431,906  
Restaurant equipment     752,103        
Office furniture and equipment     287,583       289,288  
Leasehold improvements     1,274,865       788,057  
      13,978,949       3,509,251  
Accumulated depreciation and amortization     (4,665,650 )     (2,292,404 )
Property and equipment, net   $ 9,313,299     $ 1,216,847  

 

  F- 26  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

For the years ended December 31, 2018, depreciation expense amounted to $2,447,249 and $193,671, respectively.

 

8. INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET

 

At December 31, 2018 and 2017 intangible assets consist of:

 

    2018     2017  
Trade name and trademark   $ 1,562,332     $ 1,739,307  
Customer list     2,388,139       988,041  
Non-competition agreements     150,000       150,000  
Domain name and other intangible assets     762,807       81,000  
      4,863,278       2,958,348  
Accumulated depreciation and amortization     (503,480 )     (60,335 )
Property and equipment, net   $ 4,359,798     $ 2,898,013  

 

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company acquired the trade names and trademarks of I.AM and Microphase, both which were determined to have an indefinite life, for $520,000 and $1,739,307, respectively. The remaining definite lived intangible assets are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Amortization expense was $459,656 and $60,335 for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

The customer list and non-competition agreements are subject to amortization over their estimated useful lives, which range between 3 and 14 years. The following table presents estimated amortization expense for each of the succeeding five calendar years and thereafter.

 

2019     $ 506,271  
2020       382,251  
2021       242,503  
2022       224,003  
2023       210,670  
Thereafter       1,044,254  
      $ 2,609,952  

 

9. GOODWILL

 

The Company’s goodwill relates to the acquisitions of a controlling interest in Microphase on June 2, 2017 and I. AM, Inc. (“I. AM”) on May 23, 2018, the acquisition of Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“Enertec”) on May 22, 2018, and the acquisition of all of the outstanding membership interests in Power Plus on September 1, 2017.  

 

  F- 27  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

10. INVESTMENTS – RELATED PARTIES

 

Investments in AVLP at December 31, 2018 and 2017, are comprised of the following:

 

    December 31,  
    2018     2017  
Investment in convertible promissory note of AVLP   $ 6,943,997     $ 4,124,220  
Investment in warrants of AVLP     2,230,641       6,901,593  
Investment in common stock of AVLP     812,858       826,408  
Accrued interest in convertible promissory note of AVLP     1,004,317       324,400  
Total investment in AVLP – Gross     10,991,813       12,176,621  
Less: original issue discount     (2,336,693 )     (2,115,710 )
Total investment in AVLP – Net   $ 8,655,120     $ 10,060,911  

 

The following table summarizes the changes in our investments in AVLP during the year ended December 31, 2018:

 

    Investment in     Investment in        
    warrants and     convertible     Total  
    common stock     promissory     investment  
    of AVLP     note of AVLP     in AVLP – Net  
Balance at January 1, 2017   $ 84,578     $ 952,073     $ 1,036,651  
Investment in convertible promissory notes of AVLP           620,091       620,091  
Investment in common stock of AVLP     191,782             191,782  
Fair value of warrants issued by AVLP     2,388,681             2,388,681  
Unrealized gain in warrants of AVLP     4,512,912             4,512,912  
Unrealized gain in common stock of AVLP     550,048             550,048  
Accretion of discount           436,346       436,346  
Accrued Interest           324,400       324,400  
Balance at December 31, 2018   $ 7,728,001     $ 2,332,910     $ 10,060,911  
Investment in convertible promissory notes of AVLP           1,671,936       1,671,936  
Payment of convertible promissory notes of AVLP           (1,107,500 )     (1,107,500 )
Investment in common stock of AVLP     417,169             417,169  
Fair value of warrants issued by AVLP     2,255,341             2,255,341  
Unrealized loss in warrants of AVLP     (6,926,293 )           (6,926,293 )
Unrealized loss in common stock of AVLP     (430,719 )           (430,719 )
Accretion of discount           2,034,358       2,034,358  
Accrued Interest           679,917       679,917  
Balance at December 31, 2018   $ 3,043,499     $ 5,611,621     $ 8,655,120  

 

The Company has made a strategic decision to invest in AVLP, a related party controlled by Philou Ventures, LLC, or Philou, a significant stockholder of the Company. The Company’s investments in AVLP consist of convertible promissory notes, warrants and shares of common stock of AVLP. On September 6, 2017, the Company and AVLP entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (“AVLP Loan Agreement”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017 pursuant to which the Company will provide AVLP a non-revolving credit facility of up to $10 million for a period ending on August 21, 2019, subject to the terms and conditions stated in the Loan Agreement, including the Company having available funds to grant such credit. At December 31, 2018, the Company has provided loans to AVLP in the principal amount $6,943,997 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase 13,887,994 shares of AVLP common stock. Under the terms of the AVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by AVLP to the Company are secured by the assets of AVLP.

 

  F- 28  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The warrants entitle the Company to purchase up to 13,887,994 shares of AVLP common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of five years. The exercise price of $0.50 is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The warrant may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded an unrealized gain (loss) on its investment in warrants of AVLP of ($6,926,293) and $4,512,912 respectively, representing the difference between the cost basis and the estimated fair value of the warrants in the Company’s accumulated other comprehensive income in the stockholder's equity section of the Company’s consolidated balance sheet and as a change in net unrealized gains on securities available-for-sale in the Company’s consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recognized, in other comprehensive income (loss), net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale of ($8,027,746) and $5,171,743, respectively. The Company’s investment in warrants and common stock of AVLP represented ($7,357,012) and $5,062,960, respectively, of the net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale. The Company’s investment in AVLP will be revalued on each balance sheet date. The fair value of the Company’s holdings in the AVLP warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate, which ranged between 1.92% and 2.98%, was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of our investment, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor which ranged between 68.7% and 80.4% was determined based on historical stock prices for similar technology companies with market capitalizations under $100 million. The warrant valuation is a Level 3 measurement.

 

In accordance with ASC No. 310,  Receivables  (“ASC 310”), the Company accounts for its convertible promissory notes in AVLP at amortized cost, which represents the amount at which the convertible promissory notes were acquired, adjusted for accrued interest and accretion of original issue discount and discount attributed to the fair value of the 13,887,994 warrants that the Company received in conjunction with its investment. Interest is accreted using the effective interest method. The Company records interest on an accrual basis and recognizes it as earned in accordance with the contractual terms of the convertible promissory notes, to the extent that such amounts are expected to be collected. The original issue discount of $165,448 and the discount attributed to the fair value of the warrants of $4,644,022 are being amortized as interest income through the maturity date. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded $2,034,358 and $436,346, respectively, of interest income for the discount accretion. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded contractual interest receivable attributed to the AVLP Notes and AVLP Loan Agreement of $679,917 and $324,400, respectively.

 

The Company evaluated the collectability of both interest and principal for the convertible promissory notes in AVLP to determine whether there was an impairment. Based on current information and events, the Company determined that it is probable that it will be able to collect amounts due according to the existing contractual terms. Impairment assessments require significant judgments and are based on significant assumptions related to the borrower’s credit risk, financial performance, expected sales, and estimated fair value of the collateral.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company also acquired in the open market 430,942 shares of AVLP common stock for $417,169 and 221,333 shares of AVLP common stock for $191,782, respectively. At December 31, 2018, the closing market price of AVLP’s common stock was $0.90, a decline from $1.75 at December 31, 2017. The Company has determined that its investment in AVLP marketable equity securities are accounted for pursuant to the fair value method and based upon the closing market price of AVLP common stock at December 31, 2018, the Company’s investment in AVLP common stock had an unrealized gain of $119,329.

 

11. INVESTMENTS IN PREFERRED STOCK OF PRIVATE COMPANY AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

 

We hold a portfolio of investments in equity and debt securities in other entities that are accounted for under the cost method.

 

Investment in Preferred Stock of Private Company

 

On December 15, 2017, the Company and Sandstone Diagnostics, Inc. (“Sandstone”) entered into a Series A1 Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (“Loan Agreement”) pursuant to which the Company purchased 976,286 shares of Sandstone’s Series A1 Preferred Shares for $1,000,000. Sandstone is a medical device company focused on a data-driven approach to men’s reproductive health. Founded in 2012 in part by government scientists from Sandia National Laboratories, Sandstone’s mission is to provide innovative, data-driven tools to help men assess, manage, and improve their reproductive health. The funding from the Series A1 Preferred Stock financing will support sales growth and continued product development leveraging the company’s unique technology platform, Sandstone’s Trak™ Male Fertility Testing System.

 

  F- 29  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The Company followz the guidance of ASC No. 321, Equity Securities  (“ASC 321”), which provides a measurement alternative to the requirement to carry equity interests at fair value in accordance with ASC 820, Fair value measurement, for certain equity interests without readily determinable fair values. Equity interests measured in accordance with the measurement alternative in ASC 321 are not required to be included within the fair value hierarchy. The Company’s equity investment in Sandstone is recorded at cost. However, any change to the carrying amount will be subsequently adjusted up or down for observable price changes (i.e., prices in orderly transactions for the identical investment or similar investment of the same issuer) and any adjustments to the carrying amount shall be recorded in net income.

 

Other Investments

 

On November 1, 2017, the Company and I. AM, Inc. (“I. AM”) entered into a Loan and Security Agreement pursuant to which the Company provided I. AM with a non-revolving credit facility of up to $1,600,000. On May 23, 2018, DP Lending entered into and closed a securities purchase agreement with I. AM. At the date of the acquisition, I. AM owed DP Lending $1,715,330 in outstanding principal, pursuant to the loan and security agreement. The purchase agreement provides that as I. AM repays the outstanding loan to DP Lending in accordance with the loan agreement, DP Lending will on a pro rata basis transfer shares of common stock of I. AM to David J. Krause, up to an aggregate of 471 shares (see Note 14).

 

The Company, primarily through DP Lending, has made additional investments in debt and equity securities of various entities. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the outstanding balance of these investments was $2,572,230 and $1,637,672, respectively.

 

12. INVESTMENTS IN REAL ESTATE

 

On June 8, 2018, the Company entered into a limited partnership agreement, in which it agreed to become a limited partner in the partnership (the “ NY Partnership ”). The NY Partnership is a limited partner in the partnership that is responsible for the construction and related activities of a hotel in New York City. In connection with this transaction, the Company has agreed to finance a portion of the capital required by the NY Partnership. The Company used $1,000,000 from the proceeds of the August 16, 2018 Notes as an additional capital contribution in the partnership. As of December 31, 2018, the Company had invested an aggregate of $1,869,000 in the NY Partnership and $100,000 in another real estate investment. Subject to the occurrence of certain events and other conditions over which the Company has no control, it was required to make monthly capital contributions of $500,000 every thirty days until the Company’s commitment of $10 million is funded in full. The Company has received a waiver for its obligation to make monthly capital contributions through September 30, 2019.

 

13. OTHER INVESTMENTS, RELATED PARTIES

 

The Company’s other related party investments primarily consist of two investments.

 

MTIX, Ltd.

 

On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with WT Johnson pursuant to which the Company issued to WT Johnson two convertible promissory notes in the principal amount of $600,000 (“Note A”) and $1,667,766 (“Note B”), in exchange for cancellation of amounts due to WT Johnson by MTIX Ltd., a related party of the Company.

 

  F- 30  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

During December 2017, the Company issued 30,000 shares of its common stock to WT Johnson & Sons upon the conversion of Note A and WT Johnson subsequently sold the 30,000 shares. The proceeds from the sale of shares of common stock received upon the conversion of Note A were sufficient to satisfy the entire $2,267,766 obligation as well as an additional $400,500 of value added tax due to WT Johnson. Concurrent with entering into the exchange agreement, the Company received a promissory note in the amount of $2,668,266 from MTIX and cancelled Note B. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company has valued the note receivable at $600,000, the carrying amount of Note A. The Company will recognize the remainder of the amount due from MTIX upon payment of the promissory note by MTIX.

 

Israeli Property

 

During the year ended December 31, 2017, our President, Amos Kohn, purchased certain real property that serves as a facility for the Company’s business operations in Israel. The Company made $300,000 of payments to the seller of the property and received a 28% undivided interest in the real property (“Property”). The Company’s subsidiary, Coolisys, entered into a Trust Agreement and Tenancy In Common Agreement with Roni Kohn, who owns a 72% interest in the Property, the daughter of Mr. Kohn and an Israeli citizen. The Property was purchased to serve as a residence/office facility for the Company in order to oversee its Israeli operations and to expand its business in the hi-tech industry located in Israel. Pursuant to the Trust Agreement, Ms. Kohn will hold and manage Coolisys’ undivided 28% interest in the Property. The trust will be in effect until it is terminated by mutual agreement of the parties. During the term of the trust, Ms. Kohn will not sell, lease, sublease, transfer, grant, encumber, change or effect any other disposition with respect to the Property or Coolisys’ interest without the Company’s approval.

 

Under the Tenancy In Common Agreement, Coolisys and its executive officers shall have the exclusive rights to use the Property for the Company and its affiliates’ business operations. The Property shall be managed by Ms. Kohn. Further, pursuant to the Tenancy In Common Agreement, for each completed calendar month of employment of Mr. Kohn by the Company, Ms. Kohn shall have the right to purchase a portion of the Company’s interest in the Property. Such right shall fully vest at the end of five years of continuous employment and the Trustee shall have the right to purchase the Company’s 28% interest in the Property for a nominal value. The Company will amortize its $300,000 investment over ten years, subject to a cliff vesting after five years. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recognized $30,000 and $7,500, respectively, in amortization expense. In the event that Mr. Kohn is not employed by the Company, the Company shall have the right to demand that Ms. Kohn purchase the Company’s remaining interest in the Property that was not subject to vesting for the fair market value of such unvested Property interest.

 

Other investments and interest receivable

 

During the year ended December 31, 2017, DP Lending made loans to Alzamend Neuro, Inc. (“Alzamend”), in the amount of $44,000, these loans were repaid during 2018. AVLP is a party to a management services agreement pursuant to which AVLP provides management, consulting and financial services to Alzamend. As additional consideration, the Company received a warrant to purchase 22,000 shares of Alzamend’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.30 per share of common stock. The warrants were determined to have a de minimis value.

 

14. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

 

Business combinations are accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC No. 805,  Business Combinations . Under the acquisition method, assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair values. Goodwill is recorded to the extent the purchase price exceeds the fair value of the net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired less liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. Two acquisitons were completed during 2018: Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“Enertec”) and I. AM, Inc. (“I. AM”). The final accounting for the acquisition of Enertec was completed during 2018 whereas the initial accounting for the acquisition of I. AM is not yet complete and the Company is still performing procedures to determine the appropriate accounting.

 

  F- 31  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Acquisitions during 2018

 

Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd.

 

On December 31, 2017, CooliSys entered into a share purchase agreement with Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. (“MICT”), a Delaware corporation, Enertec Management Ltd., an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of MICT (“EML” and, together with MICT, the “Seller Parties”), and Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“Enertec”), an Israeli corporation, pursuant to which Coolisys acquired Enertec (the “Acquisition”). Enertec is a manufacturer of specialized electronic systems for the military market. On May 23, 2018, Coolisys acquired Enertec for an aggregate cash purchase price of $4,850,099.

 

I. AM, Inc.

 

On May 23, 2018, DP Lending entered into and closed a securities purchase agreement with I. AM, David J. Krause and Deborah J. Krause. Pursuant to the securities purchase agreement, I. AM sold to DPL, 981 shares of common stock for a purchase price of $981, representing, upon the closing, 98.1% of I. AM’s outstanding common stock.

 

I. AM owns and operates the Prep Kitchen brand restaurants located in the San Diego area. I.AM owed DP Lending $1,715,330 in outstanding principal, pursuant to a loan and security agreement, between I. AM and DP Lending, which I. AM used to acquire the restaurants. The purchase agreement provides that, as I. AM repays the outstanding loan to DP Lending in accordance with the loan agreement, DP Lending will on a pro rata basis transfer shares of common stock of I. AM to David J. Krause, up to an aggregate of 471 shares.

 

Components of the purchase price for acquisitions completed during the year ended December 31, 2018:

 

    Enertec     I. AM  
Accounts receivable   $ 3,184,227     $ 29,319  
Inventories     1,343,053       40,581  
Property and equipment     648,649       700,291  
Trade name and trademark     2,094,741       520,000  
Domain name and other intangible assets           90,000  
Other assets     29,056       1,492  
Accounts payable and accrued expenses     (2,702,306 )     (103,961 )
Deferred tax liability     (160,311 )      
Notes payable     (4,235,725 )      
Accrued severance pay     (131,811 )      
Net assets assumed     69,573       1,277,722  
Goodwill     4,780,526       265,252  
Non-controlling interest           (33,242 )
Purchase price   $ 4,850,099     $ 1,509,732  

 

Acquisitions during 2017

 

Microphase Corporation

 

On April 28, 2017, the Company entered into a share exchange agreement with Microphase; Microphase Holding Company LLC, a limited liability company organized under the laws of Connecticut (“MHC”), Ergul Family Limited Partnership, a partnership organized under the laws of Connecticut (“EFLP”) RCKJ Trust, a trust organized under the laws of New Jersey (“RCKJ” and with MHC and EFLP, the “Significant Stockholders”) and those additional persons who have executed the share exchange agreement (collectively, the “Minority Stockholders” and with the Significant Stockholders, the “Stockholders”).  Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the share exchange agreement, the Company acquired 1,603,434 shares (the “Subject Shares”) of the issued and outstanding common stock of Microphase (the “MPC Common Stock”), from the Stockholders in exchange for the issuance by the Company of 92,122 shares of DPW common stock (“Common Stock”) and 378,776 shares of DPW Series D Preferred Stock (collectively, the “Exchange Shares”), which shares of DPW Series D Preferred Stock are convertible into an aggregate of 757,552 shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase an aggregate of 50,000 shares of Common Stock. At the time of the closing of the acquisition the Exchange Shares constituted 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation. The operating results of Microphase from the closing date of the acquisition, June 2, 2017, are included in the consolidated financial statements.

 

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DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

At closing, the purchase price of the Company’s 56.4% interest in Microphase was determined to be $1,451,040 comprised of the Exchange Shares, valued at $1,222,000 based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on June 2, 2017 of $9.40 per share, and the warrants, valued at $229,040. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The risk-free rate of 1.4% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the warrant’s term, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 105.9% was determined based on the Company’s historical stock prices.

 

Power-Plus Technical Distributors

 

On August 3, 2017, Coolisys entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement to acquire all the outstanding membership Interests of Power-Plus. Power-Plus is an industrial distributor of value-added power supply solutions, UPS systems, fans, filters, line cords, and other power-related components. On September 1, 2017, Coolisys completed the acquisition.

 

Under the terms of the agreement, Coolisys Technologies acquired all the membership Interests of Power-Plus for a price of $850,000, which was reduced by certain debts of Power-Plus in the amount of $185,927. The purchase price of $664,073 was paid by (i) a two-year promissory note in the amount of $255,000 payable in 24 monthly installments; and (ii) cash at closing of $409,073 resulting in a net purchase price of $664,073.

 

Components of the purchase price for acquisitions completed during the year ended December 31, 2017:

 

    Microphase     Power-Plus  
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 10,982     $ 31,411  
Accounts receivable     438,456       235,358  
Inventories     667,020       240,843  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets     139,665       2,068  
Restricted cash     100,000        
Intangible assets     2,627,348       250,000  
Property and equipment     406,432       22,925  
Other investments     303,333        
Deposits and loans     43,479        
Accounts payable and accrued expenses     (1,577,281 )     (388,746 )
Deferred tax liability     (225,488 )      
Revolving credit facility     (879,666 )     (210,739 )
Notes payable     (2,203,835 )      
Notes payable, related parties     (406,194 )      
Convertible notes payable            
Other current liabilities     (219,685 )      
Net (liabilities) assets assumed     (775,434 )     183,119  
Goodwill     3,171,029       480,953  
Non-controlling interest     (944,555 )      
Purchase price   $ 1,451,040     $ 664,073  

 

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DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The following pro forma data for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 summarizes the results of operations for the period indicated as if the Microphase, Power-Plus and Enertec acquisitions, which closed on June 2, 2017, September 1, 2017, and May 23, 2018, respectively, had been completed as of the beginning of each period presented. At the time of the acquisition, I. AM was not material to the Company’s operations and has not been included in the pro forma data. The pro forma data gives effect to actual operating results prior to the acquisition. These pro forma amounts do not purport to be indicative of the results that would have actually been obtained if the acquisition occurred as of the beginning of each period presented or that may be obtained in future periods:

 

    For the Years Ended  
    December 31,  
    2018     2017  
Total Revenue   $ 28,691,641     $ 20,807,590  
Net loss   $ (35,627,242 )   $ (16,877,041 )
Less: Net loss attributable                
to non-controlling interest     748,320       772,596  
Net loss attributable to                
common stockholders   $ (34,878,922 )   $ (16,104,445 )
Preferred deemed dividends     (108,049 )     (584,182 )
Preferred dividends           (54,059 )
Loss available to common shareholders   $ (34,986,971 )   $ (16,742,686 )
                 
Basic and diluted net loss per common share   $ (12.06 )   $ (26.85 )
                 
Basic and diluted weighted average                
common shares outstanding     2,899,888       623,583  
                 
Comprehensive Loss                
Loss available to common shareholders   $ (34,986,971 )   $ (16,742,686 )
Other comprehensive income (loss)                
Change in net foreign currency                
translation adjustments     (377,823 )     152,078  
Net unrealized gain (loss) on                
securities available-for-sale     (8,027,746 )     5,171,743  
Other comprehensive income (loss)     (8,405,569 )     5,323,821  
Total Comprehensive loss   $ (43,392,540 )   $ (11,418,865 )

 

15. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

Under the Company's 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2018 Plan”), 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”), 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”) and the 2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “2012 Plan”) (collectively, the “Plans”), options may be granted to employees, officers, consultants, service providers and directors of the Company. The Plans, as amended, provide for the issuance of a maximum of 868,632 shares of the Company’s common stock. The Company also has 1,500 outstanding options that were granted between 2009 and 2011 pursuant to the terms of the Company's 2002 Stock Option Plan (the “2002 Plan”). Options granted pursuant to the 2002 Plan expire between December 2020 and February 2021.

 

Options granted under the Plans have an exercise price equal to or greater than the fair value of the underlying common stock at the date of grant and become exercisable based on a vesting schedule determined at the date of grant. Typically, options granted generally become fully vested after four years. Any options that are forfeited or cancelled before expiration become available for future grants. The options expire between 5 and 10 years from the date of grant. Restricted stock awards granted under the Plans are subject to a vesting period determined at the date of grant. As of December 31, 2018, an aggregate of 507,789 of the Company's options are still available for future grant.

 

  F- 34  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company granted 50,000 options to its employees from the Plans and also granted 144,875 options outside of the Plans. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company granted 40,500 options from the Plans. These options become fully vested after four years. The Company estimated the grant date fair value of options granted utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model during the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $513,510 and $482,055, respectively, which is being recognized as stock-based compensation expense over the requisite four-year service period. During the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company also issued 79,153 and 97,440, respectively, shares of common stock to its consultants and service providers pursuant to the Plans. The Company estimated the grant date fair value of these shares of common stock was $2,640,102 and $1,532,702, respectively, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance.

 

The Company has valued the options at their date of grant utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model. This model is dependent upon several variables such as the options’ term, exercise price, current stock price, risk-free interest rate estimated over the expected term and estimated volatility of our stock over the expected term of the options. The risk-free interest rate used in the calculations is based on the implied yield available on U.S. Treasury issues with an equivalent term approximating the expected life of the options as calculated using the simplified method. The estimated volatility was determined based on the historical volatility of our common stock.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company estimated the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:

     
    2018   2017
Weighted average risk-free interest rate   2.41% — 2.80%   1.73% — 2.14%
Weighted average life (in years)   4.70   5.0
Volatility   124.7% — 131.7%   98.4% — 115.8%
Expected dividend yield   0%   0%
Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of
options granted
  $                      15.61    $                      12.00

 

The options outstanding as of December 31, 2018, have been classified by exercise price, as follows:

 

Outstanding   Exercisable
x       Weighted            
    Average Weighted   Weighted
    Remaining Average   Average
Exercise Number Contractual Exercise Number Exercise
Price Outstanding Life (Years) Price Exercisable Price
$11.40 - $16.00   161,500   7.54   $13.37   92,876   $13.32
$20.00 - $27.60   8,500   8.52   $27.46   3,031   $27.20
$30.20 - $33.80   3,125   3.71   $32.73   3,125   $32.73
$11.40 - $33.80   173,125   7.52   $14.41   99,032   $14.35
                     
Issuances outside of Plans
$16.00 - $46.40   199,875   7.39   $26.09   36,842   $29.36
                     
Total Options
$11.40 - 46.40   373,000   7.45   $20.67   135,874   $18.42

 

  F- 35  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The total stock-based compensation expense related to stock options and stock awards issued pursuant to the Plans to the Company’s employees, consultants and directors, included in reported net loss for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, is comprised as follows:

 

    2018     2017  
Cost of revenues   $ 4,874     $ 8,466  
Engineering and product development     13,650       21,449  
Selling and marketing     11,922       46,431  
General and administrative     2,921,532       1,501,544  
Stock-based compensation from Plans   $ 2,951,978     $ 1,577,890  
Stock-based compensation from issuances outside of Plans     1,767,287       253,395  
Total stock-based compensation   $ 4,719,265     $ 1,831,285  

 

The combination of stock-based compensation of $2,951,978 from the issuances of equity-based awards pursuant to the Plans and stock-based compensation attributed to stock awards of $965,220 and warrants and options of $802,066, which were issued outside of the Plans, resulted in aggregate stock-based compensation of $4,719,265 during the year ended December 31, 2018. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company issued 144,875 and 55,000 options, respectively, to purchase shares of common stock at an average exercise price of $26.09 per share to its directors and officers. During the year ended December 31, 2017, stock-based compensation was comprised of $1,577,890 from the issuances of equity-based awards pursuant to the Plans and stock-based compensation attributed to stock awards of $130,000 and warrants and options of $123,395, which were issued outside of the Plans.

 

A summary of option activity under the Company's stock option plans as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and changes during the years ended are as follows:

 

        Outstanding Options  
                    Weighted        
                Weighted     Average        
    Shares           Average     Remaining     Aggregate  
    Available     Number     Exercise     Contractual     Intrinsic  
    for Grant     of Shares     Price     Life (years)     Value  
January 1, 2017     161,382       118,300     $16.59     9.08     $0  
Adoption of 2017 SIP     100,000                          
Restricted stock awards     (97,440 )                        
Granted     (40,500 )     40,500     $16.84              
Forfeited     3,500       (3,500 )   $12.57              
Exercised           (18,175 )   $31.26              
December 31, 2017     126,942       137,125     $15.43     8.80     $6,688  
Adoption of 2018 SIP     500,000                          
Restricted stock awards     (79,153 )                        
Granted     (50,000 )     50,000     $14.00              
Forfeited 1     10,000       (11,000 )   $20.27              
Exercised           (3,000 )   $32.60              
December 31, 2018     507,789       173,125     $14.41     7.52     $0  

 

1 Includes 1,000 options that were issued pursuant to the Company’s 2002 Plan and are not available for future issuance.

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total intrinsic value (the difference between the Company's closing stock price on December 31, 2018 of $2.00 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money-options).

 

  F- 36  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2018, there was $752,529 of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock-based compensation arrangements granted under the Plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.2 years.

 

16. WARRANTS  

 

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company issued a total of 1,166,681 warrants at an average exercise price of $19.80 per share.

 

Warrant issuances during 2017

 

During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company issued a total of 431,543 warrants at an average exercise price of $16.60 per share.

 

(i) In February 2017, the Company issued five-year warrants to purchase 16,667 shares of common stock at a per share exercise price of $14.00 in connection with $400,000 of 6% demand promissory notes entered into by the Company (See Note 20o).

 

(ii) Between March 24, 2017 and June 2, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 71,429 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $14.00 per share of common stock, in connection with preferred stock purchase agreements to purchase 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock by Philou (See Note 24).

 

(iii) On April 5, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 9,000 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $18.00 per share of common stock, in connection with the cancellation of $270,000 in demand promissory notes (See Note 20p).

 

(iv) On April 17, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 8,333 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $18.00 per share of common stock, in connection with the issuance of two 7% convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $250,000. On July 25, 2017, the Company agreed to reduce the exercise price of warrants to purchase 4,167 shares of common stock from $18.00 per share to $11.00 per share and on July 28, 2017, the Company issued a new warrant to purchase 4,167 shares of common stock at $11.00 per share and cancelled the prior warrant to purchase 4,167 shares of common stock at $18.00 per share (See Note 22h).

 

(v) On April 26, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 8,000 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $16.00 per share of common stock, in connection with the issuance of a 7% convertible note in the aggregate principal amount of $104,000 (See Note 22i).

 

(vi) Between May 5, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 11,219 shares of common stock in connection with the issuance of short-term loans of $140,000 that the Company entered into with four accredited investors (See Note 20n) of which $75,000 was from the Company’s corporate counsel, a related party. The exercise price was $15.00 per share of common stock for 6,795 warrants and $16.00 per share of common stock for the remaining 4,423 warrants.

 

(vii) Between May 24, 2017 and June 19, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 91,000 shares of common stock issued in connection with the sale of twenty-one units (the “Units”) at a purchase price of $52,000 per Unit raising in the aggregate $1,092,000. Each Unit consisted of 21,667 shares of Series C Preferred Stock and Warrants to purchase 4,333 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $20.00 per share of common stock (See Note 24).

 

  F- 37  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(viii) The Company engaged Divine Capital Markets, LLC (“Divine”) to act as Placement Agent (the “Placement Agent”) for the private placement of the Series C Preferred Stock and Warrants. For its services, the Placement Agent received, in addition to a 10.0% commission on the sale of each Unit and a 3.0% non-refundable expense allowance, warrants to purchase 10% of the Units sold at 120% of the Unit purchase price. The warrants to purchase 2.1 Units equates to a warrant to purchase 9,100 shares of the Company’s common stock at $14.40 per share and a second warrant to purchase 9,100 shares of the Company’s common stock at $20.00 per share (See Note 24).

 

(ix) On June 2, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 50,000 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $22.00 per share of common stock, pursuant to the terms of a share exchange agreement (See Note 14).

 

(x) On July 25, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 8,182 shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $11.00 per share of common stock in connection with a private placement agreement under which we issued and sold 13,636 shares of common stock to the investor at $11.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $150,000. (See Note 24).

 

(xi) On July 28, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement related to a 7% Convertible Note in the principal amount of $125,000 in which the Company exchanged the 7% Convertible Note for three new promissory notes in the principal amounts of $110,000 due August 1, 2017; $35,000 due August 1, 2017; and $34,000 due August 8, 2017 (individually an Exchange Note and collectively the Exchange Notes). Concurrent with entering into the exchange agreement, the investor entered into a subscription agreement under which the Company issued and sold in a registered direct offering 10,000 shares of common stock at $11.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $110,000. The 10,000 shares of common stock were purchased through the cancellation of the Exchange Note in the principal amount of $110,000. Further, the Company issued a warrant to purchase 6,000 shares of common stock at $11.00 per share (See Note 22h).

 

(xii) On August 3, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 33,333 shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $14.00 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of a 12% Convertible Promissory Note in the aggregate principal amount of $400,000 (See Note 22c). 

 

(xiii) On August 10, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 73,750 shares of the common stock at an exercise price equal to $13.20 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of 10% Convertible Promissory Notes in the aggregate principal amount of $880,000 (See Note 22g).

 

(xiv) On November 2, 2017, the Company paid to Aegis Capital Corp. (“Aegis”), its financial advisor, a cash fee of $80,800 and issued to Aegis a warrant to purchase 7,407 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $13.20 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of 10% Convertible Promissory Notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,111,000 (See Note 22f).

 

(xv) On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement (the “Exchange Agreement”) with several accredited investors, pursuant to which the Company issued an aggregate of 76,193 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 19,023 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $22.00 per share of common stock, in exchange for cancellation of $690,000 of outstanding debt owed to the investors by Microphase Corporation (See Note 20l).

 

  F- 38  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Warrant issuances during 2018

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company issued a total of 735,291 warrants at an average exercise price of $21.80 per share.

 

(i) On January 23, 2018, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 31,250 shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $44.00 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of a 10% senior convertible promissory note in the aggregate principal amount of $1,250,000 (See Note 22e).

 

(ii) On January 25, 2018, the Company entered into three agreements for the Purchase and Sale of Future Receipt, pursuant to which the Company sold up to (i) $562,125 of the Company’s future receipts for a purchase price of $375,000, (ii) $337,275 in future receipts for a purchase price of $225,000 and (iii) $118,000 in future receipts for a purchase price of $100,000. Under the terms of these agreements, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 5,625 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $45.00 per share of common stock and warrants to purchase 8,125 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $50.00 per share of common stock (See Note 18).

 

(iii) On March 22, 2018, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 62,500 shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $23.00 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of a promissory note in the principal amount of $1,750,000 with a term of two months, subject to the Company’s ability to prepay within one month (See Note 20s) .

 

(iv) On March 23, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement to sell and issue a 12% promissory note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 and a warrant to purchase 15,000 shares of common stock to an accredited investor. Since the promissory note was not paid in full on or before May 23, 2018, the Company issued an additional warrant to purchase 7,500 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $23.00 per share of common stock (See Note 20a).

 

(v) On April 16, 2018, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 49,679 shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $26.00 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of 12% secured convertible promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,722,222 (See Note 22d).

 

(vi) On April 24, 2018, the Company issued warrants to purchase 25,510 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $14.00 per share of common stock, in connection with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement to purchase 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock by Philou (See Note 24).

 

(vii) On October 5, 2017, Ault & Company purchased 3,750 shares of the Company’s common stock at $12.00 per share and a warrant to purchase up to 3,750 shares of the Company’s common stock at $12.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $45,000. The shares and warrants were issued by the Company on May 8, 2018, the date all necessary approvals to issue the shares were received.  Ault & Company is controlled by Mr. Milton Ault, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (See Note 24).

 

(viii) On May 15, 2018, the Company entered into securities purchase agreements with certain investors in which it sold an aggregate of 384,589 shares of its common stock for aggregate consideration of $6,000,000. In connection with this financing, the Company issued (i) five-year warrants to purchase 96,147 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock and (ii) five-year warrants to purchase 288,442 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock. The warrants were issued at an exercise price of $18.80 per share of common stock (See Note 24) .

 

  F- 39  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(ix) On May 15, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with an institutional investor to sell and issue a senior secured convertible promissory note with a principal face amount of $6,000,000 and (i) a five-year warrant to purchase 55,556 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock at an exercise price of $27.00 per share of Class A common stock (the “Series A Warrant”) and (ii) a five-year warrant to purchase 86,207 shares of the Company’s Class B common stock at an exercise price of $17.40 per share of Class A common stock (See Note 22a). In connection with the financing, the Company issued the placement agent a warrant to purchase 7,500 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $20.00.

 

The following table summarizes information about common stock warrants outstanding at December 31, 2018:

 

Outstanding       Exercisable
        Weighted            
    Average Weighted   Weighted
    Remaining Average   Average
Exercise Number Contractual Exercise Number Exercise
Price Outstanding Life (Years) Price Exercisable Price
$0.20   15,873   7.84   $0.20   15,873   $0.20
$11.00   14,182   3.86   $11.00   14,182   $11.00
$12.00   3,750   4.33   $12.00   3,750   $12.00
$13.20   7,407   3.84   $13.20   7,407   $13.20
$14.00   106,286   3.87   $14.00   106,286   $14.00
$15.00   6,795   3.37   $15.00   6,795   $15.00
$16.00   24,083   1.69   $16.00   24,083   $16.00
$17.40   86,207   4.37   $17.40   86,207   $17.40
$18.80   384,589   4.38   $18.80   384,589   $18.80
$20.00   14,000   3.94   $20.00   14,000   $20.00
$22.00   37,974   2.68   $22.00   37,974   $22.00
$23.00   85,000   4.24   $23.00   85,000   $23.00
$26.00   49,679   4.29   $26.00   49,679   $26.00
$27.00   55,556   4.37   $27.00   55,556   $27.00
$44.00   31,250   4.06   $44.00   31,250   $44.00
$45.00   5,625   4.07   $45.00   5,625   $45.00
$50.00   8,125   4.07   $50.00   8,125   $50.00
$0.20 - $50.00   936,381   4.18   $20.19   936,381   $20.19

 

The Company has valued the warrants at their date of grant utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model. This model is dependent upon several variables such as the warrants’ term, exercise price, current stock price, risk-free interest rate and estimated volatility of our stock over the contractual term of the warrants. The risk-free interest rate used in the calculations is based on the implied yield available on U.S. Treasury issues with an equivalent term approximating the contractual life of the warrants.

 

The Company utilized the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the assumptions used during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

 

  2018     2017  
Weighted average risk-free interest rate     2.41% — 2.94%       1.42% — 2.01%  
Weighted average life (in years)     4.8       4.8  
Volatility     124.8% — 138.4%       98.5% — 128.7%  
Expected dividend yield     0%     0%
Weighted average grant-date fair value per
share of warrants granted
  $ 15.80     $ 8.20  

 

  F- 40  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

17. OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

Other current liabilities at December 31, 2018 and 2017 consist of:

 

    2018     2017  
Accrued payroll and payroll taxes   $ 1,497,470     $ 359,512  
Warranty liability     86,495       86,495  
Other accrued expenses     284,437       262,384  
    $ 1,868,402     $ 708,391  

  

18. ADVANCES ON FUTURE RECEIPTS

 

During 2017, the Company received funding as a result of entering into multiple Agreements for the Purchase and Sale of Future Receipts (collectively, the “Agreements on Future Receipts”) pursuant to which the Company sold in the aggregate $4,068,352 in future receipts of the Company for $2,889,175. Future receipts include cash, check, ACH, credit card, debit card, bank card, charge card or other form of monetary payment. During 2017, the Company had repaid $1,525,547 and during the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company entered into a total of nine additional Agreements on Future Receipts pursuant to which the Company sold up to $5,632,400 in future receipts for a purchase price in the amount of $4,100,000. The Agreements on Future Receipts have been personally guaranteed by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and in one instance has also been guaranteed by Philou.

 

During 2018, the Company recorded a discount in the amount of $1,651,193 in connection with these nine additional agreements, based upon the difference between the amount of future receipts sold and the actual proceeds received by the Company. Under the terms of these agreements, the Company also issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 5,625 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $45.00 per share of common stock and warrants to purchase 8,125 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $50.00 per share of common stock. The Company recorded an additional discount of $258,370 based on the estimated fair value of these warrants. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. These discounts are reflected as a reduction on the outstanding liability and are being amortized as non-cash interest expense over the term of the agreement. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, non-cash interest expense of $2,489,403 and $599,337, respectively, was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts.

 

19. REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY

 

Microphase entered into a revolving loan agreement with Gerber Finance, Inc. (“Gerber”) in February of 2012, as amended in September 2015 and July 2017 (the “Revolving Credit Facility”). Under the Revolving Credit Facility, Microphase received funds based on a borrowing base, which consisted of a percentage of eligible accounts receivable, up to a maximum revolving amount of $1,400,000 (the “Maximum Revolving Amount”). Interest accrued at the prime rate plus three and three-quarters percent (3.75%) on the unpaid principal. Effective June 15, 2017, the prime rate was increased from 4.00% to 4.25% resulting in a base rate of 8.00%. In December 2017, the Company paid off the Revolving Credit Facility in cash. 

 

  F- 41  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

On November 6, 2017, Microphase entered into a factoring agreement with CSNK Working Capital Finance Corp. (the “Factoring Agreement”). Under the Factoring Agreement, Microphase received funds based on a borrowing base, which consisted solely of eligible accounts receivable.

 

20. NOTES PAYABLE

 

Notes Payable at December 31, 2018 and 2017, are comprised of the following.

 

  2018     2017  
12% short-term promissory note (a)   $ 1,000,000     $  
Other short-term notes payable (b)     1,033,553        
Notes payable to Wells Fargo (c)     291,988       300,130  
Note payable to Dept. of Economic and Community Development (d)     260,169       292,509  
Power-Plus Credit Facilities (e)           170,473  
Note payable to Power-Plus Member (f)     13,250       130,125  
Note payable to People's United Bank (g)     18,589       19,489  
8% short-term promissory note (h)     1,272,600        
12% September 2018 short-term promissory note (i)     789,473        
October '18 short-term promissory note (j)     565,000          
Microphase December 2018 short-term promissory note (k)     200,000          
10% short-term promissory notes (l)           15,000  
Short term bank credit (m)     1,558,197        
Total notes payable     7,002,819       927,726  
Less:                
Unamortized debt discounts     (151,499 )      
Unamortized financing cost     (7,541 )      
Total notes payable, net of financing cost   $ 6,843,779     $ 927,726  
Less: current portion     (6,360,120 )     (402,234 )
Notes payable – long-term portion   $ 483,659     $ 525,492  

 

(a) On March 23, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement pursuant to which it issued a 12% promissory note and a warrant to purchase 22,500 shares of common stock to an accredited investor . The promissory note was issued with a 10% OID. The promissory note is in the principal amount of $1,000,000, was sold for $900,000, accrued simple interest at 12% and was due on June 22, 2018. The Company is in negotiations with the investor to amend the payment terms on this 12% promissory note, however, since payment was not made on the specified maturity date this unsecured 12% promissory note is currently in default. Interest only payments are due, in arrears, on a monthly basis commencing on April 23, 2018. The exercise price of the warrant is $23.00 per share. The Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $271,565 based on the estimated fair value of these warrants. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense over the term of the debt. During the year ended December 31, 2018, non-cash interest expense of $271,565 was recorded from the amortization of debt discount and interest expense of $100,000 was recorded from the amortization of the OID on this 12% promissory note. The 12% promissory note is unsecured by any of the Company’s assets but is guaranteed by our Chief Executive Officer.

 

(b) During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company entered into the following short-term promissory notes:

 

(i) On February 7, 2018, the Company issued demand promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $440,000 to accredited investors. These promissory notes included an OID of $40,000 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $400,000. The principal and OID on these notes were due and payable on demand after April 24, 2018. These loans were paid on April 27, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recognized $40,000 from the amortization of OID on these demand promissory notes.

 

  F- 42  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(ii) On February 26, 2018, the Company issued a 10% promissory note in the principal amount of $330,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $30,000 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $300,000. The principal and accrued interest on this note was due and payable on April 12, 2018, subject to a 30-day extension available to the Company. This 10% promissory note was paid on April 27, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recognized $35,991 from interest and the amortization of OID on this 10% promissory note.

 

(iii) On March 27, 2018, the Company issued a 10% promissory note in the principal amount of $200,000 to an accredited investor . Between March 29, 2018 and April 24, 2018, the Company paid the outstanding principal amount of $200,000 on this 10% promissory note.

 

(iv) On May 23, 2018, the Company issued a promissory note in the aggregate principal face amount of $81,000 to an accredited investor. The promissory note included an OID of $6,000 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $75,000 and was due and payable on August 20, 2018. This promissory note was paid on July 25, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recognized $6,000 from the amortization of OID on this promissory note.

 

(v) On May 23, 2018, the Company issued a promissory note in the aggregate principal face amount of $360,000 to an accredited investor. The promissory note included an OID of $60,000 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $300,000 and was due and payable on June 22, 2018. The outstanding balance on this note was paid on July 2, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recognized $60,000 from the amortization of OID on this promissory note.

 

(vi)

On June 5, 2018, the Company received loans in the aggregate amount of $75,000 from accredited investors. The principal and interest on these loans was paid on July 16, 2018 .

 

(vii) On June 8, 2018, the Company issued a promissory note in the aggregate principal face amount of $511,750 to an accredited investor. The promissory note included an OID of $66,750 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $445,000 and was due and payable on July 9, 2018. At December 31, 2018, the outstanding principal balance on this note was $54,750. Since payment was not made on the specified maturity date this unsecured promissory note is currently in default. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recognized $66,750 from the amortization of OID on this promissory note. On August 3, 2018, the Company and lender entered into an agreement to extend the maturity date from July 9, 2018 to August 31, 2018. The Company agreed to pay the lender an extension fee of 100,000 shares of common stock. The Company remains in default and continues to negotiate with the investor on extended payment terms.

 

(viii) On July 13, 2018, the Company issued a 15% promissory note in the principal amount of $176,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $16,000 and debt issuance costs of $5,000 resulting in net proceeds of $155,000. At December 31, 2018, the outstanding balance on this note was $124,303. The principal and accrued interest on this note was due and payable on October 11, 2018 and is currently in default. Mr. Ault personally guaranteed the repayment of this note.

 

  F- 43  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(ix) On August 10, 2018, DP Lending issued a 12% promissory note in the principal amount of $550,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $50,000 resulting in net proceeds of $500,000. The principal and accrued interest on this note is due and payable on August 10, 2019.

 

(x) On August 16, 2018, the Company issued an 8% promissory note in the principal amount of $225,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $25,000 resulting in net proceeds of $200,000. At December 31, 2018, the outstanding balance on this note was $159,500. This note was due and payable on October 5, 2018 and is currently in default. Mr. Ault personally guaranteed the repayment of this note.

 

(xi) On August 23, 2018, DP Lending issued a promissory note in the principal amount of $85,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $10,000 resulting in net proceeds of $75,000. At December 31, 2018, the outstanding balance on this note was $85,000. This note was due and payable on September 24, 2018, subject to a 28-day extension available to DP Lending. However, since payment was not made on the specified maturity date this unsecured promissory note is currently in default.

 

(xii) On August 28, 2018, DP Lending issued a promissory note in the principal amount of $115,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $15,000 resulting in net proceeds of $100,000. The principal and accrued interest on this note was due and payable on September 14, 2018, subject to a 10-business day cure period available to DP Lending. This promissory note was paid on September 21, 2018.

 

(xiii) On October 9, 2018, DP Lending issued a promissory note in the principal amount of $60,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an OID of $10,000 resulting in net proceeds of $50,000. At December 31, 2018, the outstanding balance on this note was $60,000. This note was due and payable on October 23, 2018. However, since payment was not made on the specified maturity date this unsecured promissory note is currently in default.

 

(c) At December 31, 2018, Microphase had guaranteed the repayment of two equity lines of credit in the aggregate amount of $291,988 with Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) (collectively, the “Wells Fargo Notes”). These loans originated prior to the Company’s acquisition of Microphase and Microphase was the recipient of the actual proceeds from the loans. Microphase had previously guaranteed the payment under the first Wells Fargo equity line during 2008, the proceeds of which Microphase had received from a concurrent loan from Edson Realty Inc., a related party owned real estate holding company. As of December 31, 2018, the first line of credit, which is secured by residential real estate owned by a former officer, had an outstanding balance of $210,822, with an annual interest rate of 4.00%. Microphase had guaranteed the payment under the second Wells Fargo equity line in 2014. Microphase had received working capital loans from the former CEO from funds that were drawn against the second Wells Fargo equity line. As of December 31, 2018, the second line of credit, secured by the former CEO’s principal residence, had an outstanding balance of $81,166, with an annual interest rate of 3.00%. During the years ended December 31, 2018, Microphase incurred $17,629 of interest on the Wells Fargo Notes.

 

(d)

In August 2016, Microphase received a $300,000 loan, of which $39,831 has been repaid, pursuant to the State of Connecticut Small Business Express Job Creation Incentive Program which is administered through the Department of Economic and Community Development (“DECD”) (the “DECD Note”). The DECD Note accrues interest at a rate of 3% per annum and is due in August 2026. Payment of principal and interest commenced in September 2017, payable in equal monthly installments over the remaining term. During the year ended December 31, 2018, Microphase incurred $9,286 of interest on the DECD Note.

 

(e) At December 31, 2017, Power-Plus had guaranteed the repayment of two lines of credit in the aggregate amount of $170,473 with Bank of America NA and Wells Fargo (collectively, the “Power-Plus Lines”). During 2018, the Power-Plus Lines had been paid.

 

  F- 44  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(f) Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement with Power-Plus, the Company entered into a two-year promissory note in the amount of $255,000 payable to the former owner as part of the purchase consideration. The $255,000 note is payable in 24 equal monthly installments. On October 18, 2017, for cancellation of debt, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with the former owner under which the Company sold 6,940 shares of common stock at $13.40 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $93,000. The outstanding balance on this note was $13,250 at December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company paid $116,875 in principal payments.

 

(g) In December 2016, Microphase utilized a $20,000 overdraft credit line at People’s United Bank with an annual interest rate of 15%. As of December 31, 2018, the balance of that overdraft credit line was $18,589.

 

(h) On August 16, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain institutional investors providing for the issuance of (i) secured promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $1,212,000 due February 15, 2019, at an interest rate of eight percent (8%) per annum for which the Company received an aggregate of $1,010,000, and (ii) issued an aggregate of 20,000 shares of common stock to the investors. On November 29, 2018, these 8% short-term promissory notes were amended and the Company incurred an additional OID of $60,600 resulting in an outstanding principal balance of $1,272,600 at December 31, 2018.

 

(i) During September 2018, the Company issued to institutional investors 12% term promissory notes in the principal face amount of $789,473, with an interest rate of 12% for a purchase price of $750,000. The outstanding principal face amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest, was due by December 31, 2018. During October 2018, in accordance with the notes, the Company issued 22,500 shares of its common stock to the investors. Since payment was not made on the specified maturity date these 12% term promissory notes are currently in default.

 

(j) On October 11, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with an institutional investor providing for the issuance of (i) a secured promissory note in the aggregate principal face amount of $565,000 due December 8, 2018, for which the Company received an aggregate of $510,000, and (ii) issued an aggregate of 20,000 shares of common stock to the investor. Upon maturity, the Company was required to pay $27,500 of interest. The note was not paid on the maturity date and was in default at December 31, 2018.

 

(k) On December 28, 2018, Microphase entered into a secured promissory note with an institutional investor providing for the issuance of (i) a secured promissory note in the aggregate principal face amount of $200,000, with an interest rate of 10% per annum and a maturity date of March 31, 2019. In connection with the Microphase Note, Mr. Ault entered into a personal guarantee agreement for the benefit of the investor.

 

(l) In December 2016, Microphase issued $705,000 in 10% short-term promissory notes to nineteen accredited investors which, after deducting $70,500 of placement fees to its selling agent, Spartan Capital Securities, LLC (“Spartan”), resulted in $634,500 in net proceeds to Microphase (the “10% Short-Term Notes”). The 10% Short-Term Notes were due one year from the date of issuance. The amount due pursuant to the 10% Short-Term Notes was equal to the entire original principal amount multiplied by 125% (the “Loan Premium”) plus accrued interest. On December 5, 2017, in exchange for the cancellation of $690,000 of outstanding principal and $250,323 of accrued interest owed to the investors by Microphase Corporation, the Company entered into an Exchange Agreement pursuant to which the Company issued an aggregate of 76,193 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 19,023 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $22.00 per share of common stock. During 2018, the Company paid the remaining balance of principal and accrued interest of $15,000 and $5,615, respectively.

 

  F- 45  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(m) At December 31, 2018, Enertec had short term bank credit of $1,558,197 that bears interest at prime plus 0.7% through 3.85% paid either on a monthly or weekly basis. Further, the Company has undertaken to comply with certain covenants under its bank loan. During the period May 22 to December 31, 2018, the Company incurred $47,076 of interest from Enertec’s short term bank credit.

 

Other Notes Payable

 

(n) Between May 5, 2017 and December 31, 2017, the Company received additional short-term loans of $297,000 from five accredited investors, of which $75,000 was from the Company’s corporate counsel, a related party. As additional consideration, the investors received five-year warrants to purchase 11,219 shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $15.40 per share. The warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date and are subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations. The exercise price of these warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. During the quarter ended June 30, 2017, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $95,000 based on the estimated fair value of these warrants. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. As a result of the short-term feature of these loans and advances, the debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense upon issuance of the warrants using the effective interest method.

 

During June 2017, the holders of $55,000 of these short-term loans agreed to cancel their notes for the purchase of 5,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $11.00 per share. An additional $75,000 in short-term loans from the Company’s corporate counsel was converted into the Company’s equity securities; $52,000 was converted into one of the Series C Units and $23,000 was converted into the Company’s common stock. The Company did not record any additional interest expense as a result of the extinguishment of $130,000 in short-term loans since the carrying amount of the short-term loans was equivalent to the fair value of the consideration transferred, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s equity securities on the date of extinguishment. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company also repaid $157,000 in short-term loans.

 

(o) In February 2017, the Company issued to eight accredited investors $400,000 in demand promissory notes bearing interest at a rate of 6% per annum. Of the eight accredited investors, one investor was deemed a related party. As additional consideration, the investors received five-year warrants to purchase 16,667 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.00 per share (the “Feb. 2017 Warrants”). The Feb. 2017 Warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date. The exercise price of the Feb. 2017 Warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The Feb. 2017 Warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. During the quarter ended March 31, 2017, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $151,000 based on the estimated fair value of the Feb. 2017 Warrants. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. As a result of the due on demand feature of the promissory notes, the debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense upon issuance of the Feb. 2017 Warrants using the effective interest method.

 

Between February 16, 2017 and February 23, 2017, the holders of the $400,000 in demand promissory notes agreed to cancel their demand promissory notes for the purchase of 33,333 shares of the Company’s common stock, an extinguishment price of $12.00 per share. During the quarter ended March 31, 2017, the Company recorded additional interest expense of $13,333 as a result of the extinguishment of the $400,000 in demand promissory notes based on the difference of the carrying amount of the demand promissory notes and the fair value of the consideration transferred, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of extinguishment.

 

  F- 46  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(p) On March 28, 2017, the Company issued $270,000 in demand promissory notes to several investors. These demand promissory notes accrued interest at the rate of 6% per annum. On April 5, 2017, the Company canceled these promissory notes by issuing to the investors 18,000 shares of common stock, at $15.00 per share, and warrants to purchase 9,000 shares of common stock at $18.00 per share. During the quarter ended June 30, 2017, the Company recorded additional interest expense of $109,000 as a result of the extinguishment of the $270,000 in demand promissory notes based on the difference of the carrying amount of the demand promissory notes and the fair value of the consideration transferred, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of extinguishment.

 

(q) On June 2, 2017, pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement and in consideration of legal services, Microphase issued a $450,000 8% promissory note with a maturity date of November 25, 2017 to Lucosky Brookman, LLP (the “Lucosky Note”). In conjunction with the issuance of the Lucosky Note, the Company issued Lucosky Brookman 10,000 shares of redeemable convertible Series E preferred stock (the “Series E Preferred Stock”) with a stated value of $45 per share as an alternative to providing a guarantee for the amount of the Lucosky Note. The Company, at its option, had the right to redeem for cash the outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock, upon written notice to the holder of the shares, at a cash redemption price equal to $45 multiplied by the number of shares being redeemed. Any such optional redemption by the Company would have resulted in a credit against the Lucosky Note. During the period June 3, 2017 to December 29, 2017, Microphase incurred $21,000 of interest on the Lucosky Note. On December 29, 2017, the Lucosky Note was satisfied through the conversion of the 10,000 shares of Series E Preferred Stock into 30,000 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 24).

 

(r) On January 25, 2018, the Company issued two 5% promissory notes, each in the principal face amount of $2,500,000 for an aggregate debt of $5,000,000 to two institutional investors.  The entire unpaid balance of the principal and accrued interest on each of the 5% promissory notes was due and payable on February 23, 2018, subject to a 30-day extension available to the Company. The proceeds from these two 5% promissory notes were used to purchase 1,000 Antminer S9s manufactured by Bitmain Technologies, Inc. in connection with our crypto mining operations. The Company repaid the entire outstanding principal and accrued interest on the 5% promissory notes of $5,101,127 during 2018.

 

(s) On February 20, 2018, the Company issued a promissory note in the principal face amount of $900,000 to an accredited investor. This promissory note included an original issue discount (“OID”) of $150,000 resulting in net proceeds of $750,000. The principal and OID on this note was due and payable on March 22, 2018. On March 23, 2018, the Company entered into a new promissory note in the principal amount of $2,100,000 for a term of two months, subject to the Company’ ability to prepay within one month. The new promissory note included an OID of $350,000, resulting in net proceeds of $1,750,000. The Company also issued to the lender a warrant to purchase 62,500 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $23.00 per share. The principal amount of the new promissory note consisted of cash of $1,000,000 and the cancellation of principal of $750,000 from the February 20, 2018 promissory note. The interest on the February 20, 2018 note in the amount of $150,000 was paid to the lender prior to entering into the new promissory note. The warrants are exercisable commencing on the issuance date for a term of three years. The exercise price of these warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. The Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $604,227 based on the estimated fair value of these warrants. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense over the term of the debt. During the year ended December 31, 2018, non-cash interest expense of $604,227 was recorded from the amortization of debt discount and interest expense of $350,000 was recorded from the amortization of the OID on the new promissory note. On April 23, 2018, the Company paid the entire outstanding principal on the new promissory note of $2,100,000 . The new promissory note had been guaranteed by our Chief Executive Officer and had also been guaranteed by Philou.

 

  F- 47  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

21. NOTES PAYABLE – RELATED PARTIES

 

Notes Payable – Related parties at December 31, 2018 and 2017, are comprised of the following:

 

  2018     2017  
Notes payable to former officer and employee (a)   $ 308,984     $ 309,317  
Total notes payable     308,984       309,317  
Less: current portion     (166,925 )     (133,569 )
Notes payable – long-term portion   $ 142,059     $ 175,748  

 

(a) Microphase is a party to several notes payable agreements with seven of its past officers, employees and their family members. As of December 31, 2018, the aggregate outstanding balance pursuant to these notes payable agreements, inclusive of $57,752 of accrued interest, was $366,736, with annual interest rates ranging between 3.00% and 6.00%. During the year ended December 31, 2018, Microphase incurred $10,897 of interest on these notes payable agreements. In July 2016, one of these noteholders initiated litigation to collect the balance owed under the terms of his respective agreement. In October 2017, Microphase and the noteholder entered into a settlement agreement whereby Microphase agreed to pay the outstanding principal and interest of $122,000 and $43,000, respectively, by issuing to the noteholder 95,834 shares of Microphase common stock valued at $115,000 and paying $25,000 in cash. The value of the Microphase common stock was derived from the Company’s recent acquisition of a majority interest in Microphase. Further, the parties agreed a final $25,000 would be paid within 18 months of the settlement agreement or Microphase would be required to pay the noteholder an additional $25,000.

 

(b) On December 29, 2016, the Company entered into an agreement with MCKEA Holdings, LLC (“MCKEA”). MCKEA is the majority member of Philou Ventures, LLC, which is the Company’s controlling stockholder. Kristine L. Ault, a director and the wife of Milton C. Ault III, Executive Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors, is the manager and owner of MCKEA, for a demand promissory note (The “MCKEA Note”) in the amount of $250,000 bearing interest at the rate of 6% per annum on unpaid principal. On March 24, 2017, the MCKEA Note was cancelled to purchase the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement entered into on March 9, 2017 (See Note 24). Since there was no difference between the reacquisition price and the net carrying value of the cancelled debt, no gain or loss was recognized as a result of this transaction.

 

22. CONVERTIBLE NOTES

 

Convertible Notes Payable at December 31, 2018 and 2017, are comprised of the following:

 

  2018     2017  
10% Convertible secured notes (a)   $ 7,997,126     $  
5% Convertible secured notes (b)           550,000  
12% Convertible secured note (c) (d) (e)           202,000  
Total convertible notes payable     7,997,126       752,000  
Less:                
Unamortized debt discounts     (1,189,276 )     (351,573 )
Unamortized financing cost     (65,356 )     (2,549 )
Total convertible notes payable, net of financing cost   $ 6,742,494     $ 397,878  

 

(a) On May 15, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement to sell (i) a 10% convertible note (the “10% Convertible Note”), (ii) a five-year warrant to purchase 55,556 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $27.00 per share; (iii) a five-year warrant to purchase 86,207 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock at an exercise price of $17.40 per share; and (iv) 17,241 shares of the Company’s common stock to an institutional investor. Initially, the 10% Convertible Note was convertible into the Company’s common stock at $15.00 per share, but could only be converted if an event of default thereunder had occurred and not been cured on a timely basis. On September 25, 2018, the Company entered into an agreement to amend the maturity date on the 10% Convertible Note, pursuant to which amendment the amortization schedule of the 10% Convertible Note provides for 13 monthly payments in the amount of $309,193, and for the fourteenth payment to be in the amount of $1,011,427, plus accrued and unpaid interest. Each such amortization payment shall be made in cash or Bitcoin.

 

  F- 48  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The 10% Convertible Note is in the principal amount of $6,000,000 and bears interest at 10% simple interest on the principal amount with 50% of the total interest due on the principal payable at the closing and the remaining 50% payable over the term of the 10% Convertible Note. In connection with the financing, the Company agreed to pay the placement agent, Alliance Global Partners, a cash fee of $300,000 and a warrant to purchase 7,500 shares of the Company’s common stock with an exercise price of $20.00 per share.

 

The Company computed the fair value of the warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $1,397,389 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. The Company estimated that the grant date fair value of the shares of common stock was $405,024, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the dates of issuance. In aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $2,169,613 based on the relative fair values of the warrants, common stock and debt issuance costs of $367,200. During the year ended December 31, 2018, non-cash interest expense of $2,169,613 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts. The fair value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 2.94% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrant, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 127.9% was determined based on the Company’s historical stock prices.

 

On July 2, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with the institutional investor providing for the issuance of (i) a second 10% convertible note (the “Second 10% Convertible Note”) with a principal face amount of $1,000,000 which Second 10% Convertible Note was convertible into the Company’s common stock at $15.00 per share and (ii) an additional 20,000 of the Company’s common stock to be issued in connection with the 10% Convertible Note. The Second 10% Convertible Note, as amended, matures on February 15, 2019, as to fifty percent (50%) of the amount due thereunder, and the remaining fifty percent (50%) due thereunder to May 15, 2019.

 

On August 31, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with the institutional investor providing for the issuance of a third 10% convertible note (the “Third 10% Convertible Note” and with the 10% Convertible Note and the Second 10% Convertible Note, the “10% Convertible Notes”) with a principal face amount of $2,000,000, which Third Convertible Note is convertible into 250,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $8.00 per share and (ii) an additional 31,000 of the Company’s common stock. The shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the Third 10% Convertible Note have not been issued to the institutional investor. The Third 10% Convertible Note, as amended, matures on February 15, 2019, as to fifty percent (50%) of the amount due thereunder, and the remaining fifty percent (50%) due thereunder to May 15, 2019.

 

At the time of issuance of the Third 10% Convertible Note, the closing price of the Company’s common stock was in excess of the conversion price, resulting in a beneficial conversion feature (“BCF”). The BCF embedded in the Third 10% Convertible Note is accounted for under ASC No. 470, De bt (“ASC 470”). At issuance, the intrinsic value of the BCF totaled $910,419, based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the fair value of the Company’s common stock at the commitment date of the transaction, and the relative fair value of the 31,000 shares of common stock was $259,919. Initially, the Company was prohibited from issuing the 31,000 shares of common stock or the shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the Third 10% Convertible Note until stockholder approval of such issuance of securities is obtained as required by applicable NYSE American listing rules, which was received on December 28, 2018.

 

  F- 49  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The Company recorded debt issuance costs of $200,500 from the Third 10% Convertible Note. The debt issuance costs are being amortized as non-cash interest expense over the term of the debt. During the year ended December 31, 2018, non-cash interest expense of $135,144 was recorded from the amortization of the debt issuance costs.

 

Pursuant to an amendment dated as of August 31, 2018 to the 10% Convertible Note and the Second 10% Convertible Note, the Company reduced the conversion price to $8.00 from $15.00. The amendment to the embedded conversion options of the 10% Convertible Note and the Second 10% Convertible Note caused a material change in the fair value of the embedded conversion options on these two notes and resulted in a loss on extinguishment of $665,346. At the time of the amendment, the closing price of the Company’s common stock was in excess of the conversion price, resulting in a BCF. The intrinsic value of the BCF was $1,131,960 on the 10% Convertible Note and $225,000 on the Second 10% Convertible Note based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the fair value of the Company’s common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2018, non-cash interest expense of $1,356,960 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts attributed to the August 31, 2018 amendment of to the 10% Convertible Note and the Second 10% Convertible Note.

 

Pursuant to the terms of an amendment dated December 7, 2018, the Company agreed that if the investor elects to convert three monthly payments in the principal amount of $309,193 into shares of the Company’s common stock at the stated conversion price of $8.00 and the proceeds from the sale of the shares did not result in net proceeds to the investor of 103% of the principal, interest and penalties due, then the Company would pay the investor the difference in cash (the “True-Up Payment). During December 2018, the Company issued to the investor 109,724 shares of its common stock at $8.00 per share upon the conversion of $877,793 in principal, accrued interest and penalties. During December 2018, the investor received $304,608 from the sale of the shares of common stock, which approximated the value of the shares of common stock on the date of issuance, resulting in a True-Up Payment due to the investor of $599,519.

 

(b) On December 4, 2017, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement to sell a 5% Convertible Note (the “5% Convertible Note”) and 7,500 shares of restricted common stock to an institutional investor. The principal of the 5% Convertible Note and interest thereon was convertible into shares of common stock at $12.00 per share of common stock, subject to adjustments for lower priced issuances, stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The 5% Convertible Note was in the principal amount of $550,000, included an OID of $50,000 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $500,000, accrued interest at 5% simple interest on the principal amount, and was due on August 13, 2018. Interest only payments were due on a quarterly basis and the principal was due on June 3, 2018.

 

At the time of issuance of the 5% Convertible Note, the closing price of the Company’s common stock was in excess of the conversion price, resulting in a BCF accounted for under ASC 470. At issuance, the intrinsic value of the BCF totaled $244,260 based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the fair value of the Company’s common stock at the commitment date of the transaction. The intrinsic value of the BCF exceeded the proceeds allocated to the relative fair value of the 5% Convertible Note. The BCF was amortized to interest expense over the term of the 5% Convertible Note using the effective interest method. The valuation of the BCF was calculated based on the effective conversion price compared with the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance of the 5% Convertible Note.

 

In the aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $550,000 based on the relative fair values of the 7,500 shares of common stock of $25,740, BCF of $244,260 and OID of $50,000. The debt discount is being amortized as non-cash interest expense over the term of the debt. During the year ended December 31, 2017, non-cash interest expense of $380,769 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts. In January 2018, the 5% Convertible Note was converted into 46,082 shares of the Company’s common stock based upon the contractual rights included in the 5% Convertible Note (See Note 24).

 

  F- 50  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(c) On August 3, 2017, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement to sell a 12% Convertible Note (the “12% Convertible Note”) and a warrant to purchase 33,333 shares of common stock to an accredited investor. The principal of the 12% Convertible Note may be converted into shares of common stock at $11.00 per share and under the terms of the Warrant, up to 33,333 shares of common stock may be purchased at an exercise price of $14.00 per share.

 

The 12% Convertible Note was in the principal amount of $400,000, included an OID of $40,000 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $360,000, accrued interest at 12% simple interest on the principal amount, and was due on August 13, 2018. Interest only payments were due on a quarterly basis and the principal was due on August 3, 2018. The principal may be converted into shares of the Company’s common stock at $11.00 per share.  

 

The Company computed the fair value of the 33,333 warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $167,203 based on the estimated fair value of the 33,333 warrants.

 

The BCF embedded in the 12% Convertible Note is accounted for under ASC 470. At issuance, the intrinsic value of the BCF totaled $186,797. The Company, however, was prohibited from issuing shares of common stock pursuant to the 12% Convertible Note until stockholder approval of such issuance of securities was obtained as required by applicable NYSE American listing rules. The Company received stockholder approval for the share issuances on December 28, 2017. The intrinsic value of the BCF was amortized to interest expense over the term of the 12% Convertible Note using the effective interest method. The valuation of the BCF was calculated based on the effective conversion price compared with the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance of the 12% Convertible Note. In aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $394,000 based on the relative fair values of the 33,333 warrants, BCF and OID of $40,000. During the year ended December 31, 2017, non-cash interest expense of $211,658 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts.

 

On December 28, 2017, principal and accrued interest of $198,000 and $4,818, respectively, on the 12% Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 18,438 shares of the Company’s common stock and the remaining balance of $202,000 was converted into 18,884 shares of the Company’s common stock on January 10, 2018 (See Note 24). The fair value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 1.79% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrant, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 107.3% was determined based on the Company’s historical stock prices.

 

(d) On April 16, 2018, the Company entered into securities purchase agreements to sell (i) a 12% convertible note (the “12% April 2018 Convertible Note”), (ii) a five-year warrant to purchase 49,679 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $26.00 per share; and (iii) 10,046 shares of the Company’s common stock to three institutional investors. The 12% April 2018 Convertible Note is convertible into common stock at $14.00 per share, but may only be converted if an event of default thereunder has occurred and not been cured on a timely basis.

 

The 12% April 2018 Convertible Note is in the principal amount of $1,722,222, included an OID of $172,222 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $1,550,000 and bears interest at 12% simple interest on the principal amount. The Company is required to make monthly principal and interest payments until the 12% April 2018 Convertible Note is satisfied in full on October 16, 2018.

 

The Company computed the fair value of the warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $539,360 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. The Company estimated that the grant date fair value of the shares of common stock was $128,524, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance.

 

  F- 51  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

In aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $885,106 based on the relative fair values of the warrants, common stock, OID and debt issuance costs of $45,000. During the year ended December 31, 2018, non-cash interest expense of $885,106 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts. The fair value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 2.94% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrant, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 127.9% was determined based on the Company’s historical stock prices. Beginning on May 16, 2018, the Company was required to make six monthly cash payments in the aggregate amount of $304,259. On August 31, 2018, the Company made its final payment and in aggregate paid principal and accrued interest of $1,722,222 and $103,333, respectively, on the 12% April 2018 Convertible Note.

 

(e) On January 23, 2018, we entered into a securities purchase agreement with an institutional investor to sell, for an aggregate purchase price of $1,000,000, a 10% senior convertible promissory note (the “January 2018 10% Convertible Note”) with an aggregate principal face amount of $1,250,000, a warrant to purchase an aggregate of 31,250 shares of our common stock and 27,174 shares of our common stock. The transactions contemplated by the securities purchase agreement closed on February 8, 2018.  The January 2018 10% Convertible Note was convertible into 31,250 shares of the Company’s common stock, a conversion price of $40.00 per share. The exercise price of the warrant to purchase 31,250 shares of the Company’s common stock is $44.00 per share. On February 9, 2018, in addition to the 27,174 shares of common stock provided for pursuant to the securities purchase agreement, the Company issued to the investor an aggregate of 34,597 shares of the Company’s common stock upon the conversion of the entire outstanding principal and accrued interest on the January 2018 10% Convertible Note of $1,383,884 (See Note 24).

 

Convertible Notes Converted into Common Stock during 2017

 

(f) On November 2, 2017, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement to sell a 5% Convertible Note (the “November 5% Convertible Note”) and 15,000 shares of restricted common stock to an institutional investor. The principal of the November 5% Convertible Note and interest thereon was convertible into shares of common stock at $12.00 per share of common stock, subject to adjustments for lower priced issuances, stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The November 5% Convertible Note was in the principal amount of $1,111,000 and included an original issue discount (“OID”) of $101,000 and debt issuance costs of $105,800, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $904,200. The November 5% Convertible Note provided for 5% simple interest on the principal amount.

 

In connection with the November 5% Convertible Note, the Company paid to Aegis Capital Corp. (“Aegis”), its financial advisor, a cash fee of $80,800 and issued to Aegis a warrant to purchase up to 7,407 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $13.20 per share, subject to adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The warrant is exercisable at any time commencing six months from the date of issuance through five years from the date of issuance and may be exercised for cash or on a “cashless” basis if there is no effective registration statement registering, or no current prospectus available for the resale of, all of the shares of common stock underlying the warrant.

 

The debt conversion features embedded in the November 5% Convertible Note is accounted for under ASC No. 470, De bt. At the time of issuance, the intrinsic value of the debt conversion features utilizing the Black Scholes option pricing model totaled $423,593. The intrinsic value of the debt conversion feature combined with the amount of the original issue discount and the relative value of the 15,000 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 7,407 shares of common stock exceeded the proceeds allocated to the relative fair value of the November 5% Convertible Note and resulted in aggregate debt discount of $722,868. The respective debt discount of $722,868 was amortized to interest expense over the term of the November 5% Convertible Note using the effective interest method. In addition, the Company incurred $105,800 of debt issuance costs which are also being amortized as non-cash interest expense over the term of the debt.

 

  F- 52  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

On December 13, 2017 and December 14, 2017, the entire $1,111,000 of principal on the November 5% Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 92,583 shares of the Company’s common stock based upon the contractual rights provided for in the November 5% Convertible Note (See Note 14).

 

During the year ended December 31, 2017, non-cash interest expense of $828,668 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts and debt financing cost.

 

(g) On August 10, 2017, the Company, entered into securities purchase agreements with five institutional investors to sell for an aggregate purchase price of $800,000, 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Notes (the “10% Convertible Notes”) with an aggregate principal face amount of $880,000 and warrants to purchase an aggregate of 73,750 shares of common stock. The principal of the 10% Convertible Notes and interest earned thereon may be converted into shares of common stock at $12.00 per share and under the terms of the Warrant, up to 73,750 shares of common stock may be purchased at an exercise price of $13.20 per share.

 

The 10% Convertible Notes are in the aggregate principal amount of $880,000, included an OID of $80,000 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $800,000, bear simple interest at 10% on the principal amount, and principal and interest are due on February 10, 2018. Subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, each investor may convert the principal amount of the 10% Convertible Notes and accrued interest earned thereon at any time into shares of common stock at $12.00 per share. The conversion price of the 10% Convertible Notes is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events.

 

The Company computed the fair value of the 73,750 warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $356,691 based on the estimated intrinsic value of the 73,750 warrants. The intrinsic value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 1.78% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrant, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 107.3% was determined based on the Company’s historical stock prices. 

 

The BCF embedded in the 10% Convertible Notes is accounted for under ASC No. 470, De bt. At issuance, the estimated fair value of the BCF totaled $326,809. The fair value of the BCF was allocated from the net proceeds of the 10% Convertible Notes and was amortized to interest expense over the term of the 10% Convertible Notes using the effective interest method. The valuation of the BCF was calculated based on the effective conversion price compared with the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance of the 10% Convertible Notes. In aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $763,500 based on the relative fair values of the 73,750 warrants of $356,961, BCF of $326,809 and OID of $80,000. During the years ended December 31, 2017, non-cash interest expense of $763,500 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts.

 

During December 2017, the entire principal and accrued interest of $880,000 and $54,450, respectively, on the 10% Convertible Notes was satisfied through the issuance of 77,871 shares of the Company’s common stock based upon the contractual rights provided for in the 10% Convertible Note (See Note 14).

 

Other Convertible Notes Payable

 

(h) On April 17, 2017, the Company entered into two 7% convertible notes (the “7% Convertible Notes”) each in the aggregate principal amount of $125,000 for a total of $250,000. The 7% Convertible Notes accrued interest at 7% simple interest on the principal amount and were due on June 2, 2017. The principal was convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at $15.00 per share. The noteholder could convert the principal amount of the 7% Convertible Notes at any time into common stock. The 7% Convertible Notes contained standard and customary events of default including, but not limited to, failure to make payments when due under the 7% Convertible Note agreements and bankruptcy or insolvency of the Company. The Company had the right to prepay the 7% Convertible Notes. The 7% Convertible Notes were repaid during July 2017.

 

  F- 53  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

As additional consideration, the investors received five and a half year warrants to purchase 8,333 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $18.00 per share (collectively the “7% Convertible Note Warrants”). The 7% Convertible Note Warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date. The exercise price of the 7% Convertible Note Warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The 7% Convertible Note Warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. The Company computed the fair value of the 7% Convertible Note Warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $61,304 based on the estimated fair value of the 7% Convertible Note Warrants.

 

The BCF embedded in the 7% Convertible Notes is accounted for under ASC No. 470, De bt. At issuance, the estimated fair value of the BCF totaled $31,304. The fair value of the BCF was allocated from the net proceeds of the 7% Convertible Note and was amortized to interest expense over the term of the 7% Convertible Notes using the effective interest method. The valuation of the BCF was calculated based on the effective conversion price compared with the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance of the Convertible Note. In aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $93,607 based on the relative fair values of the 7% Convertible Note Warrants of $61,304 and BCF of $31,304. During the three months ended June 30, 2017, the entire non-cash interest expense of $92,607 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts.

 

On July 25, 2017, the Company repaid one of the 7% Convertible Notes. Due to the event of default, the Company agreed to reduce the exercise price of warrants to purchase 83,334 shares of common stock from $18.00 per share to $11.00 per share and made a payment of $144,000. As a result of this transaction, the Company recorded additional interest expense of $17,226 and recorded an additional $2,641 in non-cash interest expense based upon the change in the fair value of the warrants due to the adjustment to the exercise price. 

 

On July 28, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement related to the second 7% Convertible Note. Under the terms of the exchange agreement, the Company exchanged the 7% Convertible Note for three new promissory notes in the principal amounts of $110,000 due August 1, 2017; $35,000 due August 1, 2017; and $34,000 due August 8, 2017 (individually an Exchange Note and collectively the Exchange Notes) and issued a new warrant to purchase 4,167 shares of common stock at $11.00 per share and cancelled the prior warrant to purchase 4,167 shares of common stock at $18.00 per share. The Company recorded a $54,583 extinguishment charge as a result of this transaction.

 

Concurrent with entering into the exchange agreement, the investor entered into a subscription agreement under which the Company issued and sold in a registered direct offering 10,000 shares of common stock at $11.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $110,000. The 10,000 shares of common stock were purchased through the cancellation of the Exchange Note in the principal amount of $110,000. In addition, in a concurrent private placement, the investor entered into a separate securities purchase agreement under which the Company issued and sold 3,180 shares of common stock at $11.00 per share for an aggregate of purchase price of $35,000. The 3,180 shares of common stock were purchased through the cancellation of the Exchange Note in the principal amount of $35,000. Further, the Company issued a warrant to purchase 6,000 shares of common stock at $11.00 per share. The final Exchange Note in the principal amount of $34,000 was repaid. In aggregate, and including the $54,583 extinguishment charge above, the Company recorded an additional non-cash interest expense of $110,421 as a result of the extinguishment of the $125,000 7% Convertible Note based on the difference of the carrying amount of the 7% Convertible Note and the fair value of the consideration transferred, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of extinguishment and based upon (i) the change in the fair value of the warrants due to the exchange of the warrant with an exercise price of $18.00 per share with a new warrant with an exercise price of $11.00 per share, (ii) the fair value of the warrant to purchase 6,000 shares of common stock and (iii) the value of the shares of cash and common stock in excess of the amount owed pursuant to the 7% Convertible Note.

 

  F- 54  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

(i) On April 26, 2017, the Company entered into a 7% convertible note in the aggregate principal amount of $104,000. On June 28, 2017, the noteholder converted the outstanding balance into 9,455 shares of the Company’s common stock. The Company did not record any additional interest expense as a result of the extinguishment since the carrying amount of the convertible notes was equivalent to the fair value of the consideration transferred, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s equity securities on the date of extinguishment.

 

As additional consideration, the investor received a five-year warrant to purchase 8,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $16.00 per share. The warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date. The exercise price of the warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $24,912 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants.

 

The BCF embedded in this convertible note is accounted for under ASC No. 470, De bt. At issuance, the estimated fair value of the BCF totaled $26,512. The fair value of the BCF was allocated from the net proceeds of the convertible note and was amortized to interest expense over the term of the convertible note using the effective interest method. The valuation of the BCF was calculated based on the effective conversion price compared with the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance of the convertible note. In aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $51,424 based on the relative fair values of the warrants of $24,912 and BCF of $26,512. During 2017, non-cash interest expense of $51,424 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts. The intrinsic value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 1.84% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrant, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 104.7% was determined based on the Company’s historical stock prices.  

 

23. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

On July 31, 2018 a stockholder derivative complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California against the Company as the nominal defendant, as well as its current directors and a former director styled Ethan Young and Greg Young, Derivatively on Behalf of Nominal Defendant, DPW Holdings, Inc. v. Milton C. Ault, III, Amos Kohn, William B. Horne, Jeff Bentz, Mordechai Rosenberg, Robert O. Smith, and Kristine Ault and DPW Holdings, Inc. , as the nominal defendant (Case No. 18-cv-6587) (the “Complaint”). No hearings have been scheduled as of the date hereof.

 

The Complaint alleges violations of state law and breaches of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment and gross mismanagement by the individual defendants as, in the view of the plaintiffs, the Company has entered into poorly advised loan transactions and related party transactions. The Company and the individual defendants believe that these claims are without merit and intend to vigorously defend themselves. The Company and the individual defendants moved to dismiss the Complaint and on February 25, 2019, the Court granted the motion to dismiss but granted plaintiffs leave to amend their Complaint.  On March 11, 2019, plaintiffs filed their amended complaint asserting violations of breaches of fiduciary duties and unjust enrichment claims based on the previously pled transactions. On March 25, 2019, the Company and the individual defendants filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint.  The motion to dismiss is returnable before the Court on May 6, 2019.

 

Based on the Company’s assessment of the facts underlying the claims, the uncertainty of litigation, and the preliminary stage of the case, the Company cannot estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss that may result from this action. However, an unfavorable outcome may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

On November 28, 2018, Blockchain Mining Supply and Services, Ltd , a vendor who sold computers to the Company’s subsidiary, filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against Super Crypto Mining, Inc. and the Company (Case No. 18-cv-11099). The Complaint asserted claims for breach of contract and promissory estoppel against the Company and its subsidiary arising from the subsidiary’s failure to satisfy a purchase agreement.  The Complaint seeks damages in the amount of $1,388,495.

 

On February 4, 2019, pursuant to the Court’s Rules, the Company requested a pre-motion Conference with the Court.  The Company’s time to file its motion to dismiss is stayed until the Court’ holds the pre-motion Conference, which has not yet been scheduled by the Court.

 

Based on the Company’s assessment of the facts underlying the claims, the uncertainty of litigation, and the preliminary stage of the case, the Company cannot estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss that may result from this action. However, the Company has established a reserve in the amount of the unpaid portion of the purchase agreement. An unfavorable outcome may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

In November 2012, the Company signed an operating lease agreement for the US headquarters for a period of 7 years with an option to extend for an additional 5 years. In September 2009, the Company's United Kingdom subsidiary signed an agreement for a lease in respect of the UK facility for a period of 15 years with an option to cancel the lease after 10 years on September 2019. In June 201, the Company’s Israeli subsidiary signed an agreement for a lease in respect of the Israel facility for a period of 10 years. In addition, the Company leases 43,062 square-feet of other space domestically that includes office, engineering, laboratory, restaurant and warehouse space in both California and Connecticut. The annual base rent under these leases, payable on a monthly basis, is approximately $1,272,000 during 2019. These leases expire between May 2019 and January 2028.

 

Future non-cancellable rental commitments under operating leases are as follows:  

 

  2019     $ 1,272,957  
  2020       1,032,302  
  2021       801,305  
  2022       501,411  
  2023       514,895  
  Thereafter       1,582,120  
        $ 5,704,990  

 

Total rent expense for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was approximately $1,086,031 and $291,092, respectively.

 

24. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

Preferred Stock

 

The Company is authorized to issue 25,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock $0.001 par value. The Board of Directors has designated 1,000,000 shares as Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series A Preferred Stock”), 500,000 shares as Series B Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series B Preferred Stock”). On February 27, 2019, subsequent to December 31, 2018, the Board of Directors designated 2,500 shares as Series C Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock and the Company filed a Certificate of Designations of Rights and Preferences of Series C Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.

 

On December 21, 2018, the Company filed with the Delaware Secretary of State a Certificate of Elimination eliminating its previous Series C Preferred Stock, Series D Preferred Stock and Series E Preferred Stock (collectively, the “Preferred Shares”) and returning them to authorized but undesignated shares of the Company’s preferred stock. None of the Preferred Shares was outstanding. The rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions on the remaining authorized 23,497,500 shares of Preferred Stock have not been determined. The Company’s Board of Directors is authorized to create a new series of preferred shares and determine the number of shares, as well as the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions granted to or imposed upon any series of preferred shares. As of December 31, 2018, there were 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock and no other shares of Preferred Stock issued or outstanding.

 

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DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Series A Preferred Stock

 

On September 13, 2018, the Company filed a Certificate of Designations of Rights and Preferences (the “Certificate of Designations”) to its Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware to establish the preferences, limitations and relative rights of the 10% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock (the “Series A Preferred Stock”).

 

Dividends on the Series A Preferred Stock shall accrue daily and be cumulative from, and including, the date of original issue and shall be payable monthly on the last day of each calendar month, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Certificate of Designations. Dividends accrue at the annual rate of 10%, which is equivalent to $2.50 per annum per share, based on the $25.00 liquidation preference from, and including, the date of original issuance to, but not including, September 30, 2023, or such other date fixed for redemption.

 

On and after September 30, 2023, the Company may, at its option, upon not less than thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days’ written notice, redeem the Series A Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, for cash at a redemption price of $25.00 per share of Series A Preferred Stock, plus any accumulated and unpaid dividends thereon to, but not including, the date fixed for redemption. In addition, upon the occurrence of a change of control, subject to certain restrictions, the Company may, at its option, upon not less than thirty (30) days’ nor more than sixty (60) days’ written notice, redeem the Series A Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, within one hundred twenty (120) days after the first date on which such change of control occurred, for cash at a redemption price of $25.00 per share, plus any accumulated and unpaid dividends thereon to, but not including, the date fixed for redemption. There is no mandatory redemption of the Series A Preferred Stock.

 

Holders of the Series A Preferred Stock generally have no voting rights except as set forth in the Certificate of Designations or as otherwise required by law. The holders of Series A Preferred Stock, together with the holders of shares of every other series of Parity Stock upon which like voting rights have been conferred and are exercisable, voting together as a single class regardless of series, shall be entitled to elect two directors to the Company’s board of directors at any annual meeting of stockholders or special meeting held in place thereof. When the Series A Preferred Stock is entitled to vote, such shares are entitled to one vote per share. In any matter in which the Series A Preferred Stock may vote as a single class with any other series of Preferred Stock (as may be required by law), each share of Series A Preferred Stock shall be entitled to one vote per $25.00 of stated liquidation preference.

 

Series B Preferred Stock

 

On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou, a related party. Pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou may invest up to $5,000,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over the term of 36 months.

 

Each share of Series B Preferred Stock has a stated value of $10.00 per share. Each share of Series B Preferred Stock may be convertible at the holder’s option into shares of common stock of the Company at a conversion rate of $14.00 per share, upon the earlier to occur of: (i) 60 months from the closing date, or (ii) upon the filing by the Company of one or more periodic reports that, singly or collectively, evidence that the Company’s gross revenues have reached no less than $10 million in the aggregate, on a consolidated reporting basis, over four consecutive quarters in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The conversion price will be subject to standard anti-dilution provisions in connection with any stock split, stock dividend, subdivision or similar reclassification of the common stock.

 

  F- 57  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Each share of Series B Preferred Stock shall have the right to receive dividends equal to one ten millionth (0.0000001) of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation (“EBITDAS”) calculated for a particular calendar year. Assuming the purchase of the entire $5,000,000 of shares of Preferred Stock, the holders thereof will be entitled to receive dividends equal to five percent (5%) in the aggregate of EBITDAS. Payment of dividends shall be calculated for a calendar year, payable on a quarterly basis, with payments to occur no later than 90 days in arrears from each reporting period subject to a year-end reconciliation. EBITDAS shall mean earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and stock-based compensation. 

 

At such time as (i) all shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of all outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock (the “Conversion Shares”) shall have been registered for resale pursuant to an effective Registration Statement covering such Conversion Shares, (ii) but no earlier than the twenty-fifth (25th) anniversary of the effective date, the shares of Series B Preferred Stock shall be subject to redemption in cash at the option of the Company in an amount per share equal to 120% of the greater of (a) the stated value plus all accrued and unpaid dividends, if any and (b) the fair market value of such shares of Series B Preferred Stock.

 

In addition, for each share of Series B Preferred Stock purchased, Philou will receive warrants to purchase shares of common stock in a number equal to the stated value of each share of Series B Preferred Stock purchased divided by $0.70, at an exercise price equal to $14.00 per share of common stock. The warrants do not require a net cash-settlement or provide the holder with a choice of net-cash settlement. The warrants also do not contain a variable settlement provision. Accordingly, any warrants issued to Philou pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement shall be classified as equity instruments.

 

Further, Philou shall have the right to participate in the Company’s future financings under substantially the same terms and conditions as other investors in those respective financings in order to maintain its then percentage ownership interest in the Company. Philou’s right to participate in such financings shall accrue and accumulate provided that it still owns at least 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock.

 

Between March 24, 2017 and June 2, 2017, Philou purchased 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement in consideration of the cancellation of the Company debt due to Philou in the aggregate amount of $500,000 and cash of $500,000. In addition, Philou received warrants to purchase 102,041 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.00 per share of common stock, which have been classified as equity instruments. The Company determined that the estimated relative fair value of these warrants, which are classified as equity, was $401,399 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Since the warrants were classified as equity securities, the Company allocated the $1,000,000 purchase price based on the relative fair values of the Series B Preferred Stock and the warrants following the guidance in ASC No. 470, Debt .

 

On April 24, 2018, pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou purchased an additional 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock in consideration of the cancellation of short-term advances due to Philou in the aggregate amount of $250,000. In addition, Philou received warrants to purchase 25,510 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.00 per share of common stock. The Company determined that the estimated relative fair value of these warrants, which are classified as equity, was $141,951 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Since the warrants were classified as equity securities, the Company allocated the $250,000 purchase price based on the relative fair values of the Series B Preferred Stock and the warrants.

 

The Series B Convertible Preferred Stock is convertible at any time, in whole or in part, at the option of Philou, into shares of common stock at a fixed conversion price, which is subject to adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events, of $14.00 per share. As the effective conversion price of the Series B Convertible Preferred Stock on a converted basis was below the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance, it was determined that these discounts represent beneficial conversion features. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company valued the BCF at $108,049 and 265,054, respectively, based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance. These features are analogous to preference dividends and are recorded as a non-cash return to preferred stockholders through accumulated deficit.

 

  F- 58  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Series C Preferred Stock

 

Between May 24, 2017 and June 19, 2017, the Company entered into subscription agreements (the “Series C Subscription Agreement”) with approximately twenty accredited investors (the “Series C Investors”) in connection with the sale of twenty-one Units at a purchase price of $52,000 per Unit raising in the aggregate $1,092,000 with each Unit consisting of 21,667 shares of Series C Preferred Stock and Warrants to purchase 4,333 shares of common stock. Divine acted as the Company’s placement agent. 

 

Each share of Series C Preferred Stock had a stated value of $2.40 per share. Five shares of Series C Preferred Stock were convertible at the holder’s option into one share of Common Stock of the Company. As the effective conversion price of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock on a converted basis was below the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance, it was determined that these discounts represent beneficial conversion features, which were valued at $319,128 and recognized as a deemed dividend, based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance.

 

Each share of Series C Preferred Stock had the right to receive dividends equal $0.24 per share per annum as declared by the Company’s Board of Directors. The dividends were payable on a quarterly basis on the 20th day following each calendar quarter.

  

During December 2017, pursuant to the conversion terms of the Series C Preferred Stock, all of the Series C Investors elected to convert their 455,002 shares of Series C Preferred Stock into 91,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. Additionally, of the 91,000 warrants that were issued in conjunction with the Series C Subscription Agreements, the Company issued 80,167 shares of its common stock upon cash-based exercises that resulted in gross proceeds to the Company of $1,603,000 and issued 3,545 shares of its common stock upon the cashless exercise of a warrant to purchase 4,333 shares of common stock.

 

Series D Preferred Stock

 

 On June 2, 2017, pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement, the Company acquired 1,603,434 shares of the issued and outstanding common stock of Microphase Common Stock in exchange for the issuance by the Company of 92,122 shares of the Company’s Common Stock, 378,776 shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock and warrants to purchase an aggregate of 50,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock.

 

In the event the Company shall liquidate, dissolve or wind up, the holders of Series D Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of any of the assets of the Company to the holders of the Common Stock, the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, or to the holders of any other junior series of preferred stock, by reason of their ownership thereof and subject to the rights of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and any other class or series of Company stock subsequently issued that ranks senior to the Series D Preferred Stock, an amount per share in cash or equivalent value in securities or other consideration equal to its Stated Value of $0.01 per share.

 

The holders of Series D Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to receive dividends and shall have no voting rights except as otherwise required by law. Upon the stockholders of DPW Common Stock approving the conversion of the Series D Preferred Stock into shares of DPW Common Stock in connection with the acquisition of MPC Common Stock and for purposes of compliance with Rule 713 of the NYSE American, then each share of Series D Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into 37,878 shares of DPW Common Stock.

 

  F- 59  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Series E Preferred Stock

 

On June 2, 2017, pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement and in consideration of legal services, Microphase issued a $450,000 8% promissory note with a maturity date of November 25, 2017 to an unsecured creditor, Lucosky Brookman, LLP (the “Lucosky Note”). In conjunction with the issuance of the Lucosky Note, the Company issued Lucosky Brookman 10,000 shares of Series E Preferred Stock with a stated value equal to forty-five dollars ($45.00) per share. The Company, at its option, may redeem for cash, in whole or in part, at any time and from time to time, the shares of Series E Preferred Stock at the time outstanding, upon written notice to the holder of the shares, at a cash redemption price equal to $45 multiplied by the number of shares being redeemed. Any such optional redemption by the Company shall be credited against the Lucosky Note.

 

In the event the Company shall liquidate, dissolve or wind up, the holders of Series E Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of any of the assets of the Company to the holders of the DPW Common Stock, the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, or to the holders of any other junior series of preferred stock, by reason of their ownership thereof and subject to the rights of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and any other class or series of Company stock subsequently issued that ranks senior to the Series E Preferred Stock an amount per share in cash or equivalent value in securities or other consideration equal to $0.01 per share. The holders of Series E Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to receive dividends and shall have no voting rights except as otherwise required by law. Subject to the stockholders of DPW Common Stock of the Company approving the conversion of the Series E Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock in connection with the acquisition of MPC Common Stock and for purposes of compliance with Rule 713 of the NYSE American, then each share of Series E Preferred Stock may be converted into sixty (60) shares of DPW Common Stock, for an aggregate of 30,000 shares of DPW Common Stock. On December 29, 2017, the Lucosky Note was satisfied through the conversion of the 10,000 shares of Series E Preferred Stock into 30,000 shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

Common Stock

 

Common stock confers upon the holders the rights to receive notice to participate and vote in the general meeting of stockholders of the Company, to receive dividends, if and when declared, and to participate in a distribution of surplus of assets upon liquidation of the Company. The Class B common stock carries the voting power of 10 shares of Class A common stock.

 

2018 Issuances

 

Issuance of Common Stock pursuant to the At the Market Offering

 

On February 27, 2018, the Company entered into a sales agreement with H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC (“HCW”) to sell shares of the Company’s common stock, having an aggregate offering price of up to $50 million from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “HCW ATM Offering”) under which HCW acts as sales agent. Between February 27, 2018 and December 31, 2018, the Company had received gross proceeds of $19,022,416 through the sale of 1,062,096 shares of the Company’s common stock through the HCW ATM Offering. The offer and sale of the shares through the HCW ATM Offering were made pursuant to the Company’s effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the HCW ATM Offering, dated February 27, 2018. The HCW ATM Offering was terminated effective September 23, 2018.

 

In connection with the termination of the HCW ATM Offering, HCW released DPW from the right of first refusal provisions set forth in the sales agreement. In consideration for the release, the Company issued HCW 25,000 shares of its common stock, which have been recorded in additional paid in capital, and to pay HCW a fee until February 28, 2020 of three percent fee of aggregate gross proceeds received on future financings by the Company and a one percent fee of aggregate gross proceeds received on future financings by the Company’s subsidiaries.

 

  F- 60  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

On October 10, 2018, the Company entered into an At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with Wilson-Davis & Co., Inc., as sales agent (the “Agent”) to sell shares of its Common Stock, having an aggregate offering price of up to $25,000,000 (the “Shares”) from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “WDCO ATM Offering”). Through December 31, 2018, we had received gross proceeds of $1,637,054 through the sale of 372,109 shares of our common stock through the WDCO ATM Offering. The offer and sale of the shares through the WDCO ATM Offering were made pursuant to our then effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the WDCO ATM Offering, dated October 15, 2018.

 

Issuance of Common Stock for Services

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company issued to its consultants a total 184,153 shares of its common stock with an aggregate value of $3,740,888, an average of $20.31 per share for services rendered.

 

Issuance of common stock for conversion of debt

 

On January 3, 2018, accrued interest of $23,250 on the 10% Convertible Notes was satisfied through the issuance of 1,938 shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

On January 10, 2018, principal and accrued interest of $202,000 and $5,723, respectively, on the 12% Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 18,884 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 22c).

 

On January 12, 2018, principal and accrued interest of $550,000 and $2,987, respectively, on the 5% Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 46,082 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 22b).

 

On February 9, 2018, principal and accrued interest of $1,250,000 and $133,884, respectively, on the January 2018 10% Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 34,597 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 22e).

 

During December 2018, principal and accrued interest of $18,865 and $259,408, respectively, on the 10% Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 109,724 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 22a).

 

Issuances of Common Stock upon Exercise of Stock Options

 

During January 2018, the Company issued a total of 3,000 shares of its common stock upon the cash exercise of options. These options were issued pursuant to the Company’s Plans. The Company received cash of $97,800 as a result of these option exercises.

 

Issuances of Common Stock upon Exercise of Warrants

 

During January 2018, the Company issued a total of 93,324 shares of its common stock upon the cash and cashless exercise of warrants to purchase an aggregate of 109,382 shares of its common stock. These warrants were issued between August 2017 and December 2017 in conjunction with various common stock and debt financings. The Company received cash of $867,166 as a result of these warrant exercises.

 

On May 8, 2018, the Company issued 13,958 shares of common stock pursuant a cashless exercise of warrants issued to Divine Capital Markets, LLC, its Placement Agent (the “Placement Agent”) for the 2017 private placement of the Series C Preferred Stock and warrants. For its services, the Placement Agent received, a warrant to purchase 9,100 shares of the Company’s common stock at $14.40 per share and a second warrant to purchase 9,100 shares of the Company’s common stock at $20.00 per share.

 

  F- 61  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Issuances of common stock in connection with convertible notes

 

On February 9, 2018, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreement to sell the January 2018 10% Convertible Note in the principal amount of $1,250,000 the Company issued 27,174 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investor (See Note 22b). 

 

On April 16, 2018, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreements to sell the 12% April 2018 Convertible Note in the principal amount of $1,722,222, the Company issued 10,046 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investor (See Note 22d).

 

On May 15, 2018, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreement to sell the 10% Convertible Note in the principal amount of $6,000,000 the Company issued 17,241 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investor (See Note 22a). On August 10, 2018, pursuant to an amendment to the 10% Convertible Note entered into on July 2, 2018, the Company is required to issue an additional 31,000 shares of restricted common stock to the holder of the note.

 

On July 2, 2018, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreement to sell the Second 10% Convertible Note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 the Company issued 20,000 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investor (See Note 22a).

 

On August 16, 2018, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreements to sell secured promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $1,272,600, the Company issued 20,000 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investors (See Note 20h).

 

During September 2018, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreements to sell secured promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $789,473, the Company issued 22,500 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investors (See Note 20i).

 

On October 11, 2018, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreements to secured promissory note in the aggregate principal face amount of $565,000, the Company issued 20,000 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investor (See Note 20j).

 

Issuances of Common Stock upon Conversion of Series D Preferred Stock

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, pursuant to the conversion terms of the Series D Preferred Stock, 378,776 shares of the Series D Preferred Stock were converted into 37,878 shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

Issuances of Common Stock for cash and cancellation of short-term advances

 

On October 5, 2017, Ault & Company purchased 3,750 shares of the Company’s common stock at $12.00 per share and a warrant to purchase up to 3,750 shares of the Company’s common stock at $12.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $45,000. The shares and warrants were issued by the Company on May 8, 2018.  Ault & Company is controlled by Mr. Milton Ault, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

 

On May 15, 2018, the Company entered into securities purchase agreements with certain investors in which the Company sold an aggregate of 384,589 shares of its common stock, 206,730 for cash and 177,858 for the cancellation of short-term advances, and five-year warrants to purchase such number of shares of common stock equal to the shares of common stock purchased by the investors. The Company received aggregate consideration of $5,999,584, consisting of cash and the cancellation of short-term advances of $3,225,000 and $2,774,584, respectively. These securities were issued pursuant to our registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (File No. 333-222132) which became effective on January 11, 2018.

 

  F- 62  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Treasury Stock

 

The Company utilizes the cost method of accounting for treasury stock. The cost of reissued shares is determined under the last-in, first-out method. The Company purchased 2,750 shares for $57,748 during the year ended December 31, 2018. 

 

2017 Issuances

 

Issuances of Common Stock for Cash or a Combination of Cash and Cancellation of Debt

 

On March 15, 2017, Company entered into a subscription agreement with a related party for the sale of 25,000 shares of common stock at $12.00 per share for the aggregate purchase price of $300,000.

 

On July 24, 2017, we entered into subscription agreements with six investors, and on July 25, 2017 we entered into a securities purchase agreement with an institutional investor, under which we agreed to issue and sell in the aggregate 42,568 shares of common stock to the investors at $11.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $468,250. Of the aggregate purchase price of $468,250, $445,250 was paid in cash and $23,000, which represented 2,091 of the total shares of common stock sold, was in consideration for the cancellation of debt of the Company. The company granted warrants to purchase 5,455 shares of common stock to two of the investors that entered into the subscription agreements at $15.00 per share. In a concurrent private placement, we sold to the institutional investor warrants to purchase an aggregate of 8,182 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price equal to $11.00 per share.

 

On October 18, 2017, the Company entered into subscription agreements with five investors, under which we agreed to issue and sell in the aggregate 22,612 shares of common stock to the investors at $13.40 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $303,000. $210,000 of the purchase price was paid in cash and $93,000, which represented 6,940 of the total shares of common stock sold, was paid through the cancellation of debt incurred by the Company.

 

On November 7, 2017, the Company entered into subscription agreements with investors under which the Company agreed to issue and sell in the aggregate 36,250 shares of common stock to the investors at $12.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $435,000. $280,000 of the aggregate purchase price was paid in cash and $155,000, which represented 12,917 of the total shares of common stock sold, was paid through the cancellation of debt incurred by the Company.

 

On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into subscription agreements with investors for the sale of 32,000 shares of common stock at $25.00 per share for the aggregate purchase price of $800,000. The direct offering closed December 13, 2017.

 

In aggregate, the above transactions resulted in the issuance of 136,482 shares of common stock for cash proceeds, net of $72,769 in financing costs, of $1,962,481 and the issuance of 21,498 shares of common stock for the cancellation of $271,000 in debt incurred by the Company.

 

Issuances of Common Stock for Services

 

On March 8, 2017, the Company issued an aggregate of 12,547 shares of its common stock as payment for services to a consultant. The shares were valued at $10, an average of $0.80 per share.

 

Between May 9, 2017 and June 18, 2017, the Company issued an aggregate of 47,808 shares of its common stock as payment for services to its consultant. The shares were valued at $498,769, an average of $10.40 per share.

 

Between August 21, 2017 and September 5, 2017, the Company issued an aggregate of 29,032 shares of its common stock as payment for services to its consultants. The shares were valued at $363,613, an average of $12.40 per share.

 

  F- 63  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Between October 3, 2017 and December 28, 2017, the Company issued an aggregate of 30,600 shares of its common stock as payment for services to its consultants. The shares were valued at $790,320, an average of $25.80 per share. 

 

In aggregate, during the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company issued a total of 108,067 shares of its common stock, with a value of $1,662,702, to its consultants for services.

 

Issuance of common stock for conversion of debt

 

Between February 16, 2017 and February 23, 2017, the Company issued 33,333 shares of its common stock, an extinguishment price of $12.00 per share, for the cancellation of $400,000 in demand promissory notes.

 

On April 5, 2017, the Company issued 18,000 shares of its common stock, at a price of $15.00 per share, for the cancellation of $270,000 in demand promissory notes.

 

On June 28, 2017, the Company issued 9,455 shares of its common stock, at a price of $11.00 per share, for the cancellation of a 7% convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $104,000.

 

On June 28, 2017, the holders of $55,000 of in short-term loans agreed to cancel their notes for the purchase of 5,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $11.00 per share.

 

On July 28, 2017, an institutional investor agreed to cancel two promissory notes in the aggregate amount of $145,000 for the issuance of 13,180 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $11.00 per share.

 

During the period from November 27, 2017 to December 6, 2017, the entire $530,000 of principal on the Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 48,182 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 20).

 

On December 13, 2017 and December 14, 2017, the entire $1,111,000 of principal on the November 5% Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 92,583 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 22f).

 

On December 28, 2017, principal and accrued interest of $198,000 and $4,818, respectively, on the 12% Convertible Note was satisfied through the issuance of 18,438 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 22c).

 

During December 2017, the entire principal and accrued interest of $880,000 and $54,452, respectively, on the 10% Convertible Notes was satisfied through the issuance of 77,871 shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 22g).

 

Issuances of Common Stock upon Exercise of Stock Options

 

Between December 4, 2017 and December 22, 2017, the Company issued a total of 361,458 shares of its common stock upon the cash and cashless exercise of options to purchase an aggregate of 363,500 shares of its common stock. These options were issued pursuant to the Company’s Plans. The Company received cash of $557,360 as a result of these option exercises.

 

Issuances of Common Stock upon Exercise of Warrants

 

Between November 27, 2017 and December 28, 2017, the Company issued a total of 93,593 shares of its common stock upon the cash and cashless exercise of warrants to purchase an aggregate of 105,673 shares of its common stock. These warrants were issued between November 2016 and August 2017 in conjunction with various common stock and debt financings. The Company received cash of $642,603 as a result of these warrant exercises.

 

  F- 64  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

During December 2017, in conjunction with the Series C Subscription Agreements, the Company issued 80,167 shares of its common stock upon cash-based exercises that resulted in gross proceeds to the Company of $1,603,335 and issued 3,545 shares of its common stock upon the cashless exercise of a warrant to purchase 4,333 shares of common stock. 

 

In aggregate, the Company received gross proceeds of $2,245,938 from the issuance of 177,305 shares of common stock in connection with warrant exercises.

 

Issuances of common stock in connection with convertible notes

 

On November 2, 2017, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreement to sell the November 5% Convertible Note in the principal amount of $1,111,000 the Company issued 15,000 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investor.

 

On December 4, 2017, in conjunction with the securities purchase agreement to sell the 5% Convertible Note in the principal amount of $550,000, the Company issued 7,500 shares of restricted common stock to the institutional investor.

 

Issuance of common stock for domain name

 

On July 7, 2017, the Company entered into an asset purchase agreement to acquire the intellectual property of Coolisys.com, consisting of the common law rights associated with the trademarks and name as well as the domain name and content of www.Coolisys.com . The aggregate purchase price of $81,000 was comprised of 2,500 shares of common stock, valued at $31,000 based on the closing price of the Common Stock on the date of the acquisition, and cash of $50,000.

 

Issuance of common stock and warrants in satisfaction of subsidiary debt

 

On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with several accredited investors for the cancellation of $690,000 in outstanding principal on the 10% Short-Term Notes. In December 2016, Microphase issued $705,000 in 10% Short-Term Notes. The 10% Short-Term Notes were due one year from the date of issuance. The amount due pursuant to the 10% Short-Term Notes is equal to the entire original principal amount multiplied by 125% (the “Loan Premium”) plus accrued interest. In exchange for the cancellation of $690,000 of outstanding principal and $250,000 of accrued loan premiums and interest owed to the investors by Microphase Corporation, the Company entered into the exchange agreement pursuant to which the Company issued an aggregate of 76,193 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 19,023 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $22.00 per share of common stock, (See Note 20l).

 

Issuance of common stock for acquisition of debt due from related party

 

On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with WT Johnson, pursuant to which the Company issued to WT Johnson convertible promissory notes in the principal amount of $2,267,766. During December 2017, the Company issued 30,000 shares of its common stock upon the conversion of the promissory notes.

 

 

25. INCOME TAXES

 

On December 22, 2017, the United States enacted significant changes to U.S. tax law following the passage and signing of H.R.1, “An Act to Provide for Reconciliation Pursuant to Titles II and V of the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2018” (the “Tax Act”).  Introduced initially as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the Act to Provide for Reconciliation Pursuant to Titles II and V of the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2018 (the “Act”) was enacted on December 22, 2017. The Act applies to corporations generally beginning with taxable years starting after December 31, 2017 and reduces the corporate tax rate from a graduated set of rates with a maximum 35% tax rate to a flat 21% tax rate. Additionally, the Act introduces other changes that impact corporations, including a net operating loss (“NOL”) deduction annual limitation, an interest expense deduction annual limitation, elimination of the alternative minimum tax, and immediate expensing of the full cost of qualified property. The Act also introduces an international tax reform that moves the U.S. toward a territorial system, in which income earned in other countries will generally not be subject to U.S. taxation. However, the accumulated foreign earnings of certain foreign corporations will be subject to a one-time transition tax, which can be elected to be paid over an eight-year tax transition period, using specified percentages, or in one lump sum. NOL and foreign tax credit (“FTC”) carryforwards can be used to offset the transition tax liability. The Company does not expect that this change will have an impact on the Company as it has not earned taxable income in the past and it has significant NOL carryforwards. The application of this rate reduction to the ending deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities impacted our expense for income taxes in 2017 by $1,138,845 which was fully offset by a corresponding change to our valuation allowance.  We applied the guidance in SAB 118 when accounting for the enactment-date effects of the Act in 2017 and throughout 2018. At December 31, 2017, we had not completed our accounting for all of the enactment-date income tax effects of the Act under ASC 740, Income Taxes. At December 31, 2018, we have now completed our accounting for all of the enactment-date income tax effects of the Act. During 2018 we did not need to adjust to the provisional amounts recorded at December 31, 2017. The 2017 and 2018 impacts of the enactment of the Tax Act are reflected in the tables below.

 

  F- 65  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

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

 

    2018     2017  
Current            
   Foreign   $ 134,017     $  
   Federal            
   State            
Total Current   $ 134,017          
Deferred                
Foreign     (52,134 )   $  
Federal     (158,482 )     (78,393 )
State            
Total Deferred   $ (210,616 )   $ (78,393 )
Income tax (benefit)   $ (76,599 )   $ (78,393 )

  

The Company had Federal and state net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $43,051,999 and $7,960,184 at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 respectively, available to offset future taxable income, expiring at various times starting in 2022 through 2039. The net operating loss generated in 2018 will carryforward indefinitely. In accordance with Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, the future utilization of the Company’s net operating loss to offset future taxable income may be subject to an annual limitation as a result of ownership changes that may have occurred previously or that could occur in the future. Management believes that such an ownership change may have occurred during 2017. The Company has estimated the Section 382 annual limitation due to this ownership change to be approximately $157,433. This has been used to reduce the amount of the net operating losses that have limited carryforward periods.

 

In assessing the realization of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which temporary differences representing net future deductible amounts become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax assets, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. After consideration of all of the information available and due to the last five years significant losses there is substantial doubt related to the Company’s ability to utilize its deferred tax assets, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance of the deferred tax asset. For the year ended December 31, 2018, the valuation allowance has increased by $4,887,148.

 

  F- 66  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The 2015 tax year remains open to examination by the Internal Revenue Service ( “IRS” ) and the 2014 through 2015 tax years remain open to examination by the California Franchise Tax Board ( “FTB” ) and the Connecticut Department of Revenue (“CDR” ). The IRS, FTB and CDR have the authority to examine those tax years until the applicable statute of limitations expires and the years with net operating loss carryovers when such carryovers are used. Returns for tax years 2016, 2017 and 2018 have not been filed.

 

As of December 31, 2018, the Company’s foreign subsidiaries had accumulated losses for income tax purposes in the amount of approximately $1,808,466. All of the Company’s international accumulated losses were generated in the United Kingdom and Israel which have statutory tax rates of 20% and 7.5% respectively. These net operating losses may be carried forward and offset against taxable income in the future for an indefinite period. 

 

The net income tax benefit consists of the following:

 

    2018     2017  
Current            
   Foreign   $ 134,017     $  
   Federal            
   State            
Total Current   $ 134,017          
Deferred                
Foreign     (52,134 )   $  
Federal     (158,482 )     (78,393 )
State            
Total Deferred   $ (210,616 )   $ (78,393 )
Income tax (benefit)   $ (76,599 )   $ (78,393 )

  

The Company’s effective tax rates were (0.3%) and (0.8%) for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the effective tax rate differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to the change in the valuation allowance and the effect of changes in tax rates in future periods. The reconciliation of income tax attributable to operations computed at the 2018 and 2017 U.S. Federal statutory income tax rates of 21% and 34% respectively to income tax expense is as follows:

 

    2018     2017  
Tax benefit at U.S. Federal statutory tax rate     (21.0 %)     (34.0 %)
Increase (decrease) in tax rate resulting from:                
Effect of change in tax rates     1.8 %     12.0 %
Effect of Section 382 limitation     4.9 %     0.0 %
Increase in valuation allowance     15.1 %     17.0 %
Nondeductible meals & entertainment expense and other     0.9 %     6.1 %
State taxes, net of federal benefit     (2.4 %)     (4.5 %)
Foreign rate differential     0.3 %     0.7 %
Stock compensation expense     (0.1 %)     1.9 %
Effective tax rate     (0.3 %)     (0.8 %)

  

The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC No. 740-10-25. ASC No. 740-10-25 addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under ASC No. 740-10-25, the Company may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit to be recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. To the extent that the final tax outcome of these matters is different than the amount recorded, such differences impact income tax expense in the period in which such determination is made. Interest and penalties, if any, related to accrued liabilities for potential tax assessments are included in income tax expense. ASC No. 740-10-25 also requires management to evaluate tax positions taken by the Company and recognize a liability if the Company has taken uncertain tax positions that more likely than not would not be sustained upon examination by applicable taxing authorities. Management of the Company has evaluated tax positions taken by the Company and has concluded that as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, there are no uncertain tax positions taken, or expected to be taken, that would require recognition of a liability that would require disclosure in the financial statements.

 

  F- 67  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

 26. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

a. The Company has made a strategic investment in AVLP in expectation of future business generated by the Company from MTIX Ltd., an advanced materials and processing technology company located in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK (“MTIX”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of AVLP. The Company’s investments in AVLP consist of convertible promissory notes, warrants and shares of common stock of AVLP. On September 6, 2017, the Company and AVLP entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (“AVLP Loan Agreement”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017 pursuant to which the Company will provide AVLP a non-revolving credit facility of up to $10 million for a period ending on August 21, 2019, subject to the terms and conditions stated in the Loan Agreement, including that the Company having available funds to grant such credit. At December 31, 2018, the Company has provided loans to AVLP in the principal amount $6,943,997 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase 13,887,994 shares of AVLP common stock. Under the terms of the AVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by AVLP are secured by the assets of AVLP. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded contractual interest receivable attributed to the AVLP Loan Agreement of $1,004,317 and $324,000, respectively.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company also acquired in the open market 430,942 shares of AVLP common stock for $417,169 and 221,333 shares of AVLP common stock for $191,782 respectively. At December 31, 2018, the closing market price of AVLP’s common stock was $0.90, a decline from $1.75 at December 31, 2017. The Company has determined that its investment in AVLP marketable equity securities are accounted for pursuant to the fair value method and based upon the closing market price of common stock at December 31, 2018, the amount of the Company’s unrealized gain is $119,329.

 

Philou is AVLP’s controlling stockholder. Mr. Ault is Chairman of AVLP’s Board of Directors and the Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. William B. Horne is the Chief Financial Officer of AVLP and the Chief Financial Officer and a director of the Company.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recognized $3,907,280 and $173,751, respectively, in revenues resulting from its relationship with MTIX, which was acquired by AVLP on August 22, 2017 and is therefore deemed to be a related party. In March 2017, the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million purchase order by MTIX to manufacture, install and service the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“MLSE”) plasma-laser system. Management believes that the MLSE purchase order will be a source of revenue and generate significant cash flows for the Company. However, at December 31, 2018, $3,887,000 in revenues recognized during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, had not yet been received and was reflected on the financial statements as accounts receivable, related party. Subsequent to year end the Company received $2,676,219 for manufacturing services performed on the first MLSE system.

 

b.

On April 13, 2018, the Company entered into an amended and restated consulting agreement with Mr. Ault pursuant to which the parties thereto agreed to amend and restate that certain independent contractor agreement dated September 22, 2016, by and between the Company and Mr. Ault. In accordance with the terms set forth in the Agreement, Mr. Ault shall continue to serve as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors in consideration of a monthly fee of $33,333, effective November 15, 2017. On June 17, 2018, the Company entered into a ten-year executive employment agreement with Mr. Ault.  For his services, Mr. Ault will be paid a base salary of $400,000 per annum. For his services, Mr. Ault was paid $400,000 and $207,500, respectively, during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

  F- 68  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

c. On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou. Pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou may invest up to $5,000,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over 36 months. Philou has purchased 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the most recent purchase having occurred on April 24, 2018 for the purchase of 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock .

 

d. Between July 6, 2017 and September 30, 2018, Milton C. Ault, III, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, personally guaranteed the repayment of (i) $8,218,000 from the sale of Advances on Future Receipts (ii) and $4,781,000 from the sale of the promissory notes. These personal guarantees were necessary to facilitate the consummation of these financing transactions. Mr. Ault’s payment obligations would be triggered if the Company failed to perform under these financing obligations. Our board of directors has agreed to compensate Mr. Ault for his personal guarantees. The amount of annual compensation for each of these guarantees, which will be in the form of non-cash compensation, is approximately 1.5% of the amount of the obligation.

 

e. During the year ended December 31, 2017, DP Lending made loans to Alzamend Neuro, Inc. (“Alzamend”), in the amount of $44,000. AVLP is a party to a management services agreement pursuant to which AVLP provides management, consulting and financial services to Alzamend. The outstanding principal under these loans was repaid during 2018. As additional consideration, the Company received a warrant to purchase 22,000 shares of Alzamend’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.30 per share of common stock.

 

f.

On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with WT Johnson pursuant to which the Company issued to WT Johnson two convertible promissory notes in the principal amount of $600,000 (“Note A”) and $1,667,766 (“Note B”), in exchange for cancellation of amounts due to WT Johnson by MTIX Ltd., a related party of the Company.

 

During December 2017, the Company issued 30,000 shares of its common stock to WT Johnson & Sons upon the conversion of Note A and WT Johnson subsequently sold the 30,000 shares. The proceeds from the sale of Note A were sufficient to satisfy the entire $2,267,766 obligation as well as an additional $400,500 of value added tax due to WT Johnson. Concurrent with entering into the exchange agreement, the Company received a promissory note in the amount of $2,667,766 from MTIX. At December 31, 2017, the Company has valued the note receivable at $600,000, the carrying amount of Note A. The Company will recognize the remainder of the amount due from MTIX upon payment of the promissory note by MTIX.

 

g.

Between May 5, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company received additional short-term loans of $140,000 from four accredited investors of which $75,000 was from the Company’s corporate counsel, a related party. As additional consideration, the investors received five-year warrants to purchase 11,219 shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $15.40 per share. On June 28, 2017, $52,000 in short-term loans that was received from the related party was converted into one of the Series C Units (See Note 24) and on July 24, 2017, the remaining $23,000 in short-term loans was converted in 2,091 shares of the Company’s common stock in conjunction with the subscription agreements that the Company entered into with six investors (See Note 20h).

 

h. During the year ended December 31, 2017, our President, Amos Kohn, purchased certain real property that will serve as a facility for the Company’s business operations in Israel. The Company made $300,000 of payments to the seller of the property and received a 28% undivided interest in the real property (“Property’). The Company’s subsidiary, Coolisys, entered into a Trust Agreement and Tenancy In Common Agreement with Roni Kohn, who owns a 72% interest in the Property, is the daughter of Mr. Kohn and is an Israeli citizen. The Property was purchased to serve as a residence/office facility for the Company in order to oversee its European operations and to expand its business in the hi-tech industry located in Israel. Pursuant to the Trust Agreement, Ms. Kohn will hold and manage Coolisys’ undivided 28% interest in the Property. The trust will be in effect until it is terminated by mutual agreement of the parties. During the term of the trust, the Ms. Kohn will not sell, lease, sublease, transfer, grant, encumber, change or effect any other disposition with respect to the Property or the Coolisys’ interest without the Company’s approval.

 

  F- 69  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

27. SEGMENT, CUSTOMERS AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

 

The Company has five reportable segments as of December 31, 2018 and had two reportable segments as of December 3, 2017; see Note 1 for a brief description of the Company’s business.

 

The following data presents the revenues, expenditures and other operating data of the Company’s geographic operating segments and presented in accordance with ASC No. 280.

 

 

    Year ended December 31, 2018  
    DPC     DPL     Enertec     Digital Farms     I.AM     Eliminations     Total  
Revenue   $ 10,499,612     $ 2,036,530     $ 5,226,075     $     $     $     $ 17,762,217  
Revenue, cryptocurrency                                                        
mining                       1,675,549                   1,675,549  
Revenue, related party     3,907,280                                     3,907,280  
Revenue, restaurant operations                             3,462,140             3,462,140  
Revenue, lending activities     347,033                                     347,033  
Inter-segment revenues     36,833                               (36,833 )      
Total revenues   $ 14,790,758     $ 2,036,530     $ 5,226,075     $ 1,675,549     $ 3,462,140     $ (36,833 )   $ 27,154,219  
                                                         
Depreciation and                                                        
amortization expense   $ 300,326     $ 65,046     $ 389,808     $ 2,151,505     $     $     $ 2,906,685  
                                                         
Loss from operations   $ (3,608,828 )   $ (586,107 )   $ (431,320 )   $ (6,369,138 )   $ (81,264 )   $     $ (11,076,657 )
Capital expenditures for                                                        
segment assets, as of                                                        
December 31, 2018   $ 44,190     $ 1,301     $ 48,826     $ 8,891,928     $ 184,377     $     $ 9,169,992  
                                                         
Identifiable assets as of                                                        
December 31, 2018   $ 28,623,729     $ 1,458,699     $ 10,251,816     $ 7,018,958     $ 2,072,678     $     $ 49,425,880  

 

 

 

 

  Year ended December 31, 2017  
    DPC     DPL     Eliminations     Total  
Revenues   $ 7,889,731     $ 2,111,018     $     $ 10,000,749  
Revenue, related party     173,751                   173,751  
Inter-segment revenues     53,501             (53,501 )      
Total revenues   $ 8,116,983     $ 2,111,018     $ (53,501 )   $ 10,174,500  
                                 
Depreciation and amortization expense   $ 183,252     $ 70,754     $     $ 254,006  
                                 
Loss from operations   $ (5,558,272 )   $ (424,773 )   $     $ (5,983,045 )
Capital expenditures for segment assets, as of
December 31, 2017
  $ 382,250     $ 20,529     $     $ 402,779  
                                 
Identifiable assets as of December 31, 2017   $ 28,780,371     $ 1,728,523     $     $ 30,508,894  

 

  F- 70  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Concentration Risk:

 

The following table provides the percentage of total revenues attributable to a single customer from which 10% or more of total revenues are derived:

 

      For the Year Ended
      December 31, 2018
             
    Total Revenues        
    by Major     Percentage of  
Customers     Total Company  
    (in thousands)     Revenues  
Customer A   $ 3,907,280     14 %

 

      For the Year Ended  
      December 31, 2017  
               
  Total Revenues        
    by Major     Percentage of  
  Customers     Total Company  
  (in thousands)     Revenues  
Customer B   $  1,340,766     13 %

 

 

Revenue from Customer A is related party revenue attributable to Coolisys and revenue from Customer B is also attributable to Coolisys. At December 31, 2018, MTIX represented all of the Company’s accounts and other receivable, related party.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, total revenues from external customers divided on the basis of the Company’s product lines are as follows:

 

  For the Years Ended  
  December 31,  
    2018     2017  
Revenues:            
Commercial products   $ 10,597,256     $ 5,488,657  
Defense products     16,556,963       4,685,843  
Total revenues   $ 27,154,219     $ 10,174,500  

 

Financial data relating to geographic areas:

 

The Company’s total revenues are attributed to geographic areas based on the location. The following table presents total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. Other than as shown, no foreign country or region contributed materially to revenues or long-lived assets for these periods:

 

    For the Years Ended  
    December 31,  
  2018     2017  
Revenues:            
North America   $ 19,113,226     $ 6,636,954  
Europe     1,765,991       2,634,166  
Middle East     5,226,075       672,256  
Other     1,048,927       231,124  
Total revenues   $ 27,154,219     $ 10,174,500  

 

  F- 71  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

28. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

In accordance with FASB ASC 855-10, the Company has analyzed its operations subsequent to December 31, 2018 and thru the date of this report being issued and has determined that it does not have any material subsequent events to disclose in these financial statements except for the following.

 

Amendments to Certificate of Incorporation

 

On January 3, 2019, the Company filed a certificate of amendment (the “Certificate of Amendment”) to its Certificate of Incorporation, with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, to effectuate an increase to the number of authorized shares of common stock of the Company. Pursuant to the Certificate of Amendment, the Company increased the number of authorized shares of its Class A common stock, par value $0.001, to 500,000,000 from 200,000,000 (the “Authorized Increase”). The number of authorized shares of the Company’s Class B common stock remains at 25,000,000 and the number of authorized shares of the Company’s preferred stock remains at 25,000,000. As a result of the increase of authorized shares of its Class A common stock, the aggregate number of the Company’s authorized shares is 550,000,000. The Authorized Increase was approved by the Company’s board of directors as of December 28, 2018, and approved by a vote of the stockholders of the Company at the December 28, 2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. The Certificate of Amendment became effective upon filing with the State of Delaware on January 3, 2019.

 

On February 27, 2019, the Company filed a Certificate of Designations of Rights and Preferences of Series C Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock (the “Certificate of Designations”) to its Certificate of Incorporation, as amended on January 2, 2019, with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware to establish the preferences, limitations and relative rights of the Series C Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock. The Series C Redeemable Preferred Stock issued and outstanding sixty (60) months from the from their date of issuance (the “Redemption Date”), shall be mandatorily redeemed and repurchased by the Company at the Stated Value.

 

On March 14, 2019,  pursuant to the authorization provided by the Company’s stockholders at a Special Meeting of Stockholders, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the Certificate of Incorporation Amendment (the “COI Amendment”) to effectuate a reverse stock split of the Common Stock affecting both the authorized and issued and outstanding number of such shares by a ratio of one-for-twenty (the “Reverse Stock Split”). The Company filed the COI Amendment to its Certificate of Incorporation with the State of Delaware effectuating the Reverse Stock Split on March 14, 2019. As a result of the Reverse Stock Split, each twenty (20) shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding prior to the Reverse Stock Split were converted into one (1) share of Common Stock,  with no change in authorized shares or par value per share.

 

Amendments to 10% Convertible Note

 

On January 9, 2019, the Company and the Investor of the 10% Convertible Note entered into an amendment, which revised the amortization schedule of the 10% Convertible Note such that the monthly amortization payments in the principal amount $309,193, at the request of the holder, shall be satisfied by the issuance of shares of the Company’s common stock. The shares of common stock shall be issued at a price equal to the greater of (i) $2.40 per share (the closing price of the Company’s common stock on January 9, 2019) or (ii) 80% of the lowest daily VWAP in the three days prior to the date of issuance, but not to exceed $8.00 per share. However, the Company shall have the right to pay the monthly amortization payment in cash within 72 hours by advising the investor via email within two hours of receipt of any conversion notice. Between January 4, 2019 and February 21, 2019, the Company issued to the investor 336,486 shares of its common stock at $1.96 per share upon the conversion of $1,053,351 in principal and accrued interest. The investor received $660,337 from the sale of the shares of common stock, which approximated the value of the shares of common stock on the date of issuance, resulting in a True-Up Payment due to the investor of $393,014.

 

  F- 72  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

Public Offering

 

On March 29, 2019, the entered into an underwriting agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) with A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners (the “Underwriter”), pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue and sell an aggregate of (a) 2,855,500 shares of its common stock (the “Shares”) together with warrants to purchase 2,855,500 shares of common stock (the “Common Warrants”) and (b)  pre-funded warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 12,700,000 shares of its common stock (the “Pre-Funded Warrants”) together with a number of Common Warrants to purchase 12,700,000 shares of common stock (the “Offering”). The Shares were sold to the purchasers at the public offering price of $0.44 per share (the “Offering Price”). The Common Warrants were sold at a public offering price of $0.01 per Common Warrant. The Pre-Funded Warrants were offered to each purchaser whose purchase of the Shares and the Common Warrant in the Offering would otherwise result in the purchaser, together with its affiliates and certain related parties, beneficially owning more than 4.99% (or, at the election of the purchaser, 9.99%) of the Company’s outstanding common stock immediately following the consummation of the Offering. The purchase price of each Pre-Funded Warrant equaled the Offering Price at which the Shares were sold to the public in the Offering, minus $0.01, and the exercise price of each Pre-Funded Warrant equaled $0.01 per share.

 

Pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement, the Company also granted the Underwriter the option to purchase up to 428,325 additional shares of common stock, and/or Pre-funded Warrants to purchase up to 1,905,000 additional shares of common stock and/or Common Warrants to purchase up to 2,333,325 additional shares of common stock to cover over-allotments, if any. The option is exercisable 45 days after entry into the Underwriting Agreement. The Offering was made pursuant to the shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-222132), as amended, that was filed by the Company with the SEC on January 8, 2019 and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a related prospectus supplement.

 

The Common Warrants are exercisable at any time after the date of issuance at an exercise price of $0.45 per share and will expire on the fifth anniversary of the original issuance date. If at the time of exercise, there is no effective registration statement registering, or no current prospectus available for, the issuance of the shares of common stock underlying the Common Warrants, then the Common Warrant may be exercised through a cashless exercise, in which case the holder would receive upon such exercise the net number of shares of common stock determined according to the formula set forth in the Common Warrant. If on any date on or after May 2, 2019, the volume weighted average price of the Company’s common stock fails to exceed the exercise price of the Common Warrant in effect on such date, the Common Warrant may be exercised such that the holder will receive one common share for each warrant held.

 

The Pre-Funded Warrants are exercisable at any time after the date of issuance and may be exercised at any time until all of the Pre-Funded Warrants are exercised in full. As an alternative to payment in immediately available funds, the holder may elect to exercise the Pre-Funded Warrant through a cashless exercise.

 

In addition, the Company has also issued the Underwriter a warrant to purchase a maximum of 622,220 additional shares of common stock (equal to 4% of the Shares sold in the Offering plus the number of shares of common stock underlying the Pre-Funded Warrants) at an initial exercise price of $0.50 per share, with a term of five years (the “Underwriter’s Warrant”). The Underwriter’s Warrant contains demand and piggy-back registration rights. If at the time of exercise, there is no effective registration statement registering, or no current prospectus available for, the issuance of the shares of common stock underlying the Underwriter’s Warrant, then the Underwriter’s Warrant may be exercised through a cashless exercise.

 

The Company received net proceeds from the Offering of approximately $6 million, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated Offering expenses, and assuming no exercise of the Underwriter’s option to purchase additional shares. The Company used the net proceeds from the Offering for the repayment of debt, working capital and other general corporate purposes.

 

  F- 73  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The Offering closed on April 2, 2019 and as of April 12, 2019 the Company had issued a total of 12,555,500 shares of its common stock, inclusive of shares issued pursuant to the exercise of a total of 9,700,000 Pre-Funded Warrants.

 

WDCO ATM Offering

 

Between January 1, 2019 and April 12, 2018, the Company had received net proceeds of $4,469,630 through the sale of 4,791,642 shares of the Company’s common stock through the WDCO ATM Offering. The offer and sale of the shares through the WDCO ATM Offering were made pursuant to the Company’s effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the ATM Offering, dated October 15, 2018.

 

Series C Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock

 

On February 27, 2019, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Ault & Company, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a stockholder of the Company (“Ault & Company”). Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, Ault & Company will invest at its sole and absolute discretion up to $2,500,000 in the Company through the purchase of the Company’s Series C Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock (“The Series C Preferred Stock”), during the period commencing on the Closing Date and ending on December 31, 2019. Each share of Series C Preferred Stock shall be purchased at $1,000 (the “Stated Value”) for up to a maximum issuance of 2,500 shares of Preferred Stock. Each share of Preferred Stock shall become convertible after the eighteen months from the date from the date of issuance into such number of fully paid and non-assessable shares of the Company’s common stock (“Common Stock”) for $2.40 per share, subject to adjustments (the “Conversion Price”). The Preferred Stock is mandatorily redeemable by the Company after five years from the date of issuance.

 

January 2019 Exchange Agreement

 

On January 23, 2019 the Company entered into an Exchange Agreement (the “January ’19 Exchange Agreement”) with an institutional investor pursuant to which the Company issued to the investor two new 8% promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,043,799 (the “New Notes”) the Secured Promissory Note issued by the Company to the investor on October 10, 2018 (the “October Note”) and that certain Secured Promissory Note issued by the Company to the investor on August 16, 2018, as amended on November 29, 2018 (the “November Note”, and together with the October Note, the “Old Notes”).

 

Pursuant to the January ’19 Exchange Agreement, the investor may elect to receive from the Company shares of Common Stock of the Company issued under the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-222132). Any Common Stock issued to the investor in accordance therewith shall reduce the outstanding sums due under the New Notes by an amount equal to the number of shares of Common Stock issued multiplied by the applicable issuance price. The number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon delivery of issuance notices by the investor to the Company shall be determined by dividing the amount of the New Note to be drawn down by the greater of $2.40 or 80% of the lowest daily VWAP in the three trading days prior to the acquisition of the Common Stock. In addition, in the event the investor’s proceeds from the sale of all Common Stock received by the investor pursuant to the terms of the February ’19 Exchange Agreement, do not equal at least 100% of the deemed payment of the outstanding principal balance of the New Note, the Company shall owe the difference to the investor in cash or through the delivery of free trading shares of Common Stock.

 

Subject to the conditions set forth in the Exchange Agreement, on or after April 15, 2019, unless the New Notes have been paid in full, the Investor may be issued a secured convertible promissory note (the “Convertible Note”) in exchange for the November Note.

 

  F- 74  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

The Convertible Note, if issued, will be issued on or about April 15, 2019, with a maturity date of July 15, 2019, and will bear interest at 8% per annum payable by the Company to the Investor, in cash, within seven days of the end of each calendar quarter while the Convertible Note remains outstanding. The number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the Convertible Note shall be determined by dividing the amount to be converted by the greater of $2.40 or 80% of the lowest daily VWAP in the three trading days prior to the conversion, subject to certain conditions. The Convertible Note contains standard and customary events of default including, but not limited to, failure to make payments when due under the Convertible Note, failure to comply with certain covenants contained in the Convertible Note, or bankruptcy or insolvency of the Company.

 

On February 11, 2019 and March 22, 2019, pursuant to the January ’19 Exchange Agreement, the Company issued to the investor 436,753 and 102,041 shares, respectively, of the Company’s common stock for an aggregate reduction in the note of $876,324, resulting in a remaining balance due of $171,883.

 

February 2019 Exchange Agreement

 

On February 20, 2019 the Company entered into an Exchange Agreement (the “February ’19 Exchange Agreement”) with an institutional investor pursuant to which the Company issued to the investor a new 8% promissory note in the principal amount of $433,884 (the “New Note”) in exchange for the Secured Promissory Note issued by the Company to the investor on August 16, 2018, as amended on November 29, 2018 (the “Old Note”).

 

Pursuant to the February ’19 Exchange Agreement, the investor may elect to receive from the Company shares of Common Stock of the Company issued under the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-222132). Any Common Stock issued to the investor in accordance therewith shall reduce the outstanding sums due under the New Note by an amount equal to the number of shares of Common Stock issued multiplied by the applicable issuance price. The number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon delivery of issuance notices by the investor to the Company shall be determined by dividing the amount of the New Note to be drawn down by the greater of $2.40 or 80% of the lowest daily VWAP in the three trading days prior to the acquisition of the Common Stock. In addition, in the event the investor’s proceeds from the sale of all Common Stock received by the investor pursuant to the terms of the February ’19 Exchange Agreement, do not equal at least 100% of the deemed payment of the outstanding principal balance of the New Note, the Company shall owe the difference to the investor in cash or through the delivery of free trading shares of Common Stock.

 

On March 18, 2019 and April 4, 2019, pursuant to the February ’19 Exchange Agreement, the Company issued to the investor 180,785 and 375,000 shares of the Company’s common stock for an aggregate reduction in the note of $250.062, resulting in a remaining balance due of $183,822.

 

Issuances of Common Stock for Services

 

Between January 7, 2019 and March 20, 2019, the Company issued an aggregate of 375,000 shares of its common stock as payment for services to its consultant. The shares were valued at $482,500, an average of $1.29 per share.

 

Short-term Promissory Notes

 

On December 28, 2018, Enertec entered into a $500,000 Secured Promissory Note (the “Enertec Note”), whereby Enertec agreed to pay interest in an amount of 10% per annum in cash to the investor, beginning on January 15, 2019, on a monthly basis, until the Enertec Note is paid in full. The maturity date of the Enertec Note shall be the earlier of June 15, 2019 or as otherwise provided in the terms of the Enertec Note. The proceeds from the Enertec Note were received in January 2019. The Enertec Note was paid from proceeds received in the Offering.

 

On December 28, 2018, Microphase entered into a $200,000 Secured Promissory Note (the “Microphase Note”), whereby Microphase agreed to pay interest in an amount of 10% per annum in cash to the investor, beginning on January 15, 2019, on a monthly basis, until the Microphase Note is paid in full. The maturity date of the Microphase Note shall be the earlier of March 31, 2019, or as otherwise provided in the terms of the Microphase Note. The Microphase Note was paid from proceeds received in the Offering.

 

  F- 75  
 

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

 

 

 

In connection with the Enertec Note and the Microphase Note, Milton C. Ault III provided a personal guarantee for the benefit of the investor.

 

Payment of related party receivable

 

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recognized $3,907,280 and $173,751 in revenues from MTIX, a related party, to manufacture the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“MLSE”) plasma-laser systems. On April 12, 2019, the Company received payment of $2,676,219 for manufacturing services performed on the first MLSE system.

 

  F- 76  
 

 

APPENDIX B

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

 

AMENDED AND RESTATED 2018 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

(effective July 2, 2019, subject to stockholder approval)

 

1 General

 

1.1        Purpose . The purposes of DPW’s Amended and Restated 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”) is to promote the interests of DPW Holdings, Inc. (the “ Company ”) and the stockholders of the Company by providing (i) executive officers and other employees of the Company and its Subsidiaries (as defined below), (ii) certain advisors who perform services for the Company and its Subsidiaries and (iii) non-employee members of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Board ”) with appropriate incentives and rewards to encourage them to enter into and continue in the employ and service of the Company and to acquire a proprietary interest in the long-term success of the Company, as well as to reward the performance of these individuals in fulfilling their personal responsibilities for long-range and annual achievements.

 

1.2        Effective Date and Term . The Plan will become effective upon the date it is approved by the stockholders of the Company (the “ Effective Date ”). Unless terminated earlier by the Committee, the Plan will expire on the tenth (10 th ) anniversary of the Effective Date.

 

1.3        Definitions . Capitalized terms in the Plan, unless defined elsewhere in the Plan, shall be defined as set forth below:

 

1934 Act . The term “1934 Act” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder and any successor thereto.

 

Affiliated Company . The term “Affiliated Company” means any company, partnership, association, organization or other entity controlled by, controlling or under common control with the Company.

 

Award . The term “Award” means any award or benefit granted under the Plan, including, without limitation, Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units and Other Stock-Based Awards.

 

Award Agreement . The term “Award Agreement” means a written or electronic Award grant agreement under the Plan.

 

Change of Control . The term “Change of Control” shall be deemed to occur if and when:

 

(i) any person, including a “person” as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the 1934 Act (a “ Person ”), is or becomes a beneficial owner (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 under the 1934 Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities;

 

(ii) individuals who, as of the Effective Date, constitute the Board (the “ Incumbent Board ”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective Date whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual were a member of the Incumbent Board, but excluding for this purpose any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of either an actual or threatened election contest or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board;

 

(iii) all or substantially all of the assets of the Company are sold, transferred or distributed, or the Company is dissolved or liquidated; or

 

(iv) a reorganization, merger, consolidation or other corporate transaction involving the Company (a “ Transaction ”) is consummated, in each case, with respect to which the stockholders of the Company immediately prior to such Transaction do not, immediately after the Transaction, own more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company or other corporation resulting from such Transaction in substantially the same respective proportions as such stockholders’ ownership of the voting power of the Company immediately before such Transaction.

 

   B- 1  
 

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other provision of this Plan, the term Change of Control shall not include a sale of assets, merger or other transaction effected exclusively for the purpose of changing the domicile of the Company. For the avoidance of doubt, solely with respect to any Award that constitutes “deferred compensation” subject to Section 409A of the Code and that is payable on account of a Change of Control (including any installments or stream of payments that are accelerated on account of a Change of Control), a Change of Control shall occur only if such event also constitutes a “change in the ownership,” “change in effective control,” and/or a “change in the ownership of a substantial portion of assets” of the Company as those terms are defined under Treasury Regulation §1.409A-3(i)(5), but only to the extent necessary to establish a time or form of payment that complies with Section 409A of the Code, without altering the definition of Change of Control for purposes of determining whether a Grantee's rights to such Award become vested or otherwise unconditional upon the Change in Control.

 

Code . The term “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. A reference to any provision of the Code shall include reference to any successor provision of the Code.

 

Committee . The term “Committee” means the committee of the Board described in Section 2 hereof and any sub-committee established by such Committee pursuant to Section 2.4 hereof.

 

Covered Employee . The term “Covered Employee” means an Employee who is, or who is anticipated to become, between the time of grant and payment of the Award, a “covered employee,” as such term is defined in Section 162(m)(3) of the Code (or any successor section thereof).

 

Disability . The term “Disability” means “Disability” as defined in any Award Agreement to which the Grantee is a party.

 

Eligible Grantee . The term “Eligible Grantee” shall mean any Employee, Non-Employee Director or Key Advisor, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

 

Employee . The term “Employee” means an active employee of the Company or a Subsidiary, but excluding any person who is classified by the Company or a Subsidiary as a “contractor” or “consultant,” no matter how characterized by the Internal Revenue Service, other governmental agency or a court, or any employee who is not actively employed, as determined by the Committee. Any change of characterization of an individual by the Internal Revenue Service or any court or government agency shall have no effect upon the classification of an individual as an Employee for purposes of this Plan, unless the Committee determines otherwise.

 

Fair Market Value.  For purposes of determining the “Fair Market Value” of a share of Stock as of any date, the “Fair Market Value” as of that date shall be, unless otherwise determined by the Committee, the closing sale price during regular trading hours of the Stock on the date on the principal securities market in which shares of Stock is then traded; or, if there were no trades on that date, the closing sale price during regular trading hours of the Stock on the first trading day prior to that date. If the Stock is not publicly traded at the time a determination of Fair Market Value is required to be made hereunder, the determination of such amount shall be made by the Committee in such manner as it deems appropriate.

 

Grantee . The term “Grantee” means an Employee, Non-Employee Director or Key Advisor of the Company or a Subsidiary who has been granted an Award under the Plan.

 

ISO . The term “ISO” means any Option intended to be and designated as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.

 

Key Advisor . The term “Key Advisor” means a consultant or other key advisor who performs services for the Company or a Subsidiary.

 

   B- 2  
 

 

Non-Employee Director . The term “Non-Employee Director” means a member of the Board who is not an Employee.

 

NQSO . The term “NQSO” means any Option that is not designated as an ISO, or which is designated by the Committee as an ISO but which subsequently fails or ceases to qualify as an ISO.

 

Option . The term “Option” means a right, granted to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(i) hereof, to purchase shares of Stock. An Option may be either an ISO or an NQSO.

 

Other Stock-Based Award . The term “Other Stock-Based Award” means a right or other interest granted to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(v) hereof that may be denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, or related to, Stock, including but not limited to (i) unrestricted Stock awarded as a bonus or upon the attainment of Performance Goals or otherwise as permitted under the Plan, and (ii) a right granted to an Eligible Grantee to acquire Stock from the Company containing terms and conditions prescribed by the Committee.

 

Performance Award . The term “Performance Award” means a grant made pursuant to Section 4.2(viii) hereof, the amount and settlement of which is contingent on the achievement of specific Performance Goals during a Performance Period, determined using a specific Performance Measure, all as specified in the related Award Agreement. Performance Awards may be granted in the form of Stock Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, and/or Other Stock-Based Awards.

 

Performance Goals . The term “Performance Goals” means performance goals based on the attainment on an absolute or relative basis by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company (or any division or business unit of any such entity), or any two or more of the foregoing, of performance goals pre-established by the Committee in its sole discretion, based on one or more of the following criteria (if applicable, a ny performance criteria that are financial metrics, may be determined in accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“ GAAP ”) or may be adjusted when established to include or exclude any items otherwise includable or excludable under GAAP): (i) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified percentage increase in, revenues, earnings, income before taxes and extraordinary items, net income, operating income, earnings before or after deduction for all or any portion of income tax, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization or a combination of any or all of the foregoing; (ii) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax profits including, without limitation, that attributable to continuing and/or other operations; (iii) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, operational cash flow; (iv) the achievement of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in, all or a portion of, the Company’s bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations of the Company, which may be calculated net of such cash balances and/or other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Committee; (v) earnings per share or the attainment of a specified percentage increase in earnings per share or earnings per share from continuing operations; (vi) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in return on capital employed or return on invested capital; (vii) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax return on stockholders’ equity; (viii) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, economic value added targets based on a cash flow return on investment formula; (ix) the attainment of certain target levels in, or specified increases in, the fair market value of the shares of the Company’s common stock; (x) the growth in the value of an investment in the Company’s common stock; (xi) the attainment of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level in or increase in, all or a portion of controllable expenses or costs or other expenses or costs; (xii) gross or net sales, revenue and growth of sales revenue (either before or after cost of goods, selling and general administrative expenses, research and development expenses and any other expenses or interest); (xiii) total stockholder return; (xiv) return on assets or net assets; (xv) return on sales; (xvi) operating profit or net operating profit; (xvii) operating margin; (xviii) gross or net profit margin; (xix) cost reductions or savings; (xx) productivity; (xxi) operating efficiency; (xxii) working capital; (xxiii) market share; (xxiv) customer satisfaction; and (xxv) to the extent that an Award is not intended to comply with Section 162(m) of the Code, other measures of performance selected by the Board. Any of the above Performance Goals may be compared to the performance of a selected group of comparison companies, or a published or special index that the Committee, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate, or as compared to various stock market indices. Subject to the limitations in Section 4.2 hereof, the Committee in its sole discretion may designate additional business criteria on which the Performance Goals may be based or adjust, or modify or amend the aforementioned business criteria. The relative weights of the criteria that comprise the Performance Goals shall be determined by the Committee in its sole discretion. In establishing the Performance Goals for a performance period, the Committee may establish different Performance Goals for individual Grantees or groups of Grantees. Subject to the limitations in Section 4.2(viii)(d) hereof, the Committee in its sole discretion shall have the authority to make equitable adjustments to the Performance Goals in recognition of unusual or non-recurring events affecting the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company or the financial statements of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company, in response to changes in applicable laws or regulations, including changes in generally accepted accounting principles or practices, or to account for items of gain, loss or expense determined to be extraordinary or unusual in nature or infrequent in occurrence or related to the disposal of a segment of a business, as applicable. Performance Goals may include a threshold level of performance below which no Award will be earned, a level of performance at which the target amount of an Award will be earned and a level of performance at which the maximum amount of the Award will be earned.

 

   B- 3  
 

 

Performance Measure . The term “Performance Measure” means, with respect to a Performance Award, one or more of the criteria identified at Section 4.2(viii) hereof selected by the Committee for the purpose of establishing, and measuring attainment of, Performance Goals for a Performance Period in respect of such grant, as provided in the related Award Agreement. For purposes of clarity, the Committee may establish a Performance Measure on a regional or jurisdictional basis, Subsidiary by Subsidiary basis, product-line basis, consolidated Company basis, or any other manner that it determines appropriate in its sole discretion.

 

Performance Period . The term “Performance Period” means, with respect to a Performance Award, the one or more periods of time, which may be of varying and overlapping durations, as the Committee may select during which the attainment of one or more Performance Goals will be measured.

 

Restricted Stock . The term “Restricted Stock” means an Award of shares of Stock to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(iii) hereof that may be subject to certain restrictions and to a risk of forfeiture. Stock issued upon the exercise of Options or SARs is not “Restricted Stock” for purposes of the plan, even if subject to post-issuance transfer restrictions or forfeiture conditions. When Restricted Stock vests, it ceases to be “Restricted Stock” for purposes of the Plan.

 

Restricted Stock Unit . The term “Restricted Stock Unit” means a right granted to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(iv) hereof to receive Stock or cash at the end of a specified deferral period, which right may be conditioned on the satisfaction of specified performance or other criteria.

 

Retirement . The term “Retirement” means any termination of employment or service as an Employee, Non-Employee Director or Key Advisor as a result of retirement in good standing under the rules of the Company or a Subsidiary, as applicable, then in effect.

 

Rule 16b-3 . The term “Rule 16b-3” means Rule 16b-3 under Section 16 of the 1934 Act, as from time to time in effect promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission, including any successor to such Rule.

 

Section 162(m) Grandfathered Award . The term “Section 162(m) Grandfathered Award” means an Award that is intended to constitute “qualified performance-based compensation” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code and that is eligible for transition relief from the changes to Section 162(m) provided under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

 

Stock . The term “Stock” means shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.001 per share, of the Company.

 

Stock Appreciation Right or SAR . The term “Stock Appreciation Right” or “SAR” means the right, granted to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(ii) hereof, to be paid an amount measured by the appreciation in the Fair Market Value of Stock from the date of grant to the date of exercise of the right.

 

Subsidiary . The term “Subsidiary” means any present or future subsidiary corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(f) of the Code, and any present or future business venture designated by the Committee in which the Company has a significant interest, including, without limitation, any subsidiary corporation in which the Company has at least a 50% ownership interest, as determined in the discretion of the Committee.

 

Substitute Award . The term “Substitute Award” means an Award granted or Stock issued by the Company in assumption of, or in substitution or exchange for, an award previously granted, or the right or obligation to make a future award, in all cases by a company acquired by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or with which the Company or a Subsidiary combines.

 

   B- 4  
 

 

2 Administration

 

2.1        Committee . The authority to manage the operation of and administer the Plan shall be vested in a committee (the “ Committee ”) in accordance with this Section 2. The Committee shall be selected by the Board, and shall consist solely of two or more members of the Board who are non-employee directors within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 and, to the extent the administration of an Award relates to a Section 162(m) Grandfathered Award, are outside directors within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, the Company’s Compensation Committee shall be designated as the “Committee” hereunder.

 

2.2        Powers of the Committee . The Committee’s administration of the Plan shall be subject to the following:

 

(i) Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee will have the authority and discretion to select from among the Eligible Grantees those persons who shall receive Awards, to determine the time or times of receipt, to determine the types of Awards and the number of shares covered by the Awards, and to establish the terms, conditions, performance criteria, restrictions, and other provisions of such Awards;

 

(ii) The Committee will have the authority and discretion to interpret the Plan, to establish, amend, and rescind any rules and regulations relating to the Plan, to determine the terms and provisions of any Award Agreement made pursuant to the Plan, and to make all other determinations that may be necessary or advisable for the administration of the Plan;

 

(iii) Any interpretation of the Plan by the Committee and any decision made by it under the Plan is final and binding on all persons; and

 

(iv) In managing the operation of and administering the Plan, the Committee shall take action in a manner that conforms to the articles of incorporation and by-laws of the Company, and applicable state corporate law.

 

2.3        Prohibition against Repricing . Other than pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof, the Committee shall not, without the approval of the Company’s stockholders, (a) lower the option price per share of an Option or SAR after it is granted, (b) cancel an Option or SAR when the exercise price per Share exceeds the Fair Market Value of one share in exchange for cash or another Award (other than in connection with a Change in Control), or (c) take any other action with respect to an Option or SAR that would be treated as a repricing under the rules and regulations of the principal U.S. national securities exchange on which the Company’s shares are then listed.

 

2.4        Delegation of Authority . To the extent not inconsistent with applicable law, the rules of any national securities exchange that may in the future apply to the Company, or other provisions of the Plan, the Committee may, at any time, allocate all or any portion of its responsibilities and powers to any one or more of its members or, with respect to Awards made to Employees other than executive officers, the Chief Executive Officer, including without limitation, the power to designate Grantees hereunder and determine the amount, timing and terms of Awards hereunder. Any such allocation or delegation may be revoked by the Committee at any time.

 

2.5        Indemnification . Each person who is or shall have been a member of the Committee, or the Board, shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against and from any loss, cost, liability or expense that may be imposed upon or reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with or resulting from any claim, action, suit or proceeding to which he or she may be a party or in which he or she may be involved by reason of any action taken in good faith or failure to act in good faith under the Plan and against and from any and all amounts paid by him or her in settlement thereof, with the Company’s approval, or paid by him or her in satisfaction of any judgment in any such action, suit or proceeding against him or her, provided he or she shall give the Company an opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend the same before he or she undertakes to handle and defend it on his or her own behalf. The foregoing right of indemnification shall be in addition to any other rights of indemnification or elimination of liability to which such persons may be entitled under the Company’s articles of incorporation or by-laws, as a matter of law, or otherwise, or any power that the Company may have to indemnify them or hold them harmless.

 

   B- 5  
 

 

2.6        Minimum Vesting Requirement for Full-Value Awards. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, Grantees of full-value Awards (i.e., Awards other than Options and SARs), will be required to continue to provide services to the Company (or an Affiliated Company) for not less than one-year following the date of grant in order for any such full-value Awards to fully or partially vest (other than in case of death, Disability or a Change of Control). Notwithstanding the foregoing, up to five percent (5%) of the available shares of Stock authorized for issuance under the Plan pursuant to Section 3.1 hereof may provide for vesting of full-value Awards, partially or in full, in less than one-year.

 

3 Available Shares of Stock under the Plan

 

3.1        Shares Available for Awards . Subject to the adjustments described in Section 3 herein, the maximum number of shares of Stock reserved for the grant of Awards under the Plan shall be 7,000,000. Any shares of Stock that are subject to Options or SARs shall be counted against this limit as one (1) share for every one (1) share granted, and any shares of Stock that are subject to Awards other than Options or SARs shall be counted against this limit as 1.25 shares for every one (1) share granted.

 

3.2        Forfeited, Cancelled and Expired Awards . Awards granted under the Plan that are forfeited, expire or are canceled or settled without issuance of Stock shall not count against the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan as set forth in Section 3.1 hereof and shall be available for future Awards under the Plan. Any Stock that again becomes available for Awards under the Plan pursuant to this Section 3.2 shall be added as (i) one (1) share for every one (1) share subject to Options or SARs granted under the Plan or options, and (ii) as 1.25 shares for every one (1) share subject to Awards other than Options or Stock Appreciation Rights granted under the Plan.

 

3.3        Prohibition on Share Recycling. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, any and all Stock that is (i) withheld or tendered in payment of an Option exercise price; (ii) withheld by the Company or tendered by the Grantee to satisfy any tax withholding obligation with respect to any Award; (iii) covered by a SAR (to the extent that it is settled in Stock, without regard to the number of shares of Stock that are actually issued to the Grantee upon exercise); (iv) reacquired by the Company on the open market or otherwise using cash proceeds from the exercise of Options, shall not be added to the maximum number of shares of Stock that may be issued under the Plan as set forth in Section 3.1 hereof.

 

3.4        Adjustments . In the event of any change in the Company’s capital structure, including but not limited to a change in the number of shares of Stock outstanding, on account of (i) any stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock split or any similar equity restructuring, or (ii) any combination or exchange of equity securities, merger, consolidation, recapitalization, reorganization, or divesture or any other similar event affecting the Company’s capital structure, to reflect such change in the Company’s capital structure, the Committee shall make appropriate equitable adjustments to (a) the maximum number of shares of Stock that may be issued under the Plan as set forth in Section 3.1 hereof, (b) the number of shares of Stock issuable upon outstanding Awards, and (c) any individual Award limitations or restrictions, as applicable. In the event of any extraordinary dividend, divestiture or other distribution (other than ordinary cash dividends) of assets to stockholders, or any transaction or event described above, to the extent necessary to prevent the enlargement or diminution of the rights of Grantees, the Committee shall make appropriate equitable adjustments to the number or kind of shares subject to an outstanding Award, the exercise price applicable to an outstanding Award, and/or a Performance Goals. Any adjustments under this Section 3.4 shall be consistent with Section 409A or Section 424 of the Code, to the extent applicable, and made in a manner that does not adversely affect the exemption provided pursuant to Rule 16b-3 or qualification under Section 162(m) of the Code, to the extent each may be applicable. The Company shall give each Grantee notice of an adjustment to an Award hereunder and, upon notice, such adjustment shall be final, binding and conclusive for all purposes. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee shall decline to adjust any Award made to a Grantee if such adjustment would violate applicable law.

 

3.5        Fractional Shares . The Company shall not be obligated to issue any fractional shares of Stock in settlement of Awards granted under the Plan. Except as otherwise provided in an Award Agreement or determined by the Committee, (i) the total number of shares issuable pursuant to the exercise, vesting or earning of an Award shall be rounded down to the nearest whole share, and (ii) no fractional shares shall be issued.  The Committee may, in its discretion, determine that a fractional share shall be settled in cash.

 

3.6        Substitute Awards; Plans of Acquired Companies . Substitute Awards shall not count against the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan as set forth in Section 3.1 hereof. In addition, shares of Stock issued in connection with awards that are assumed, converted or substituted as a result of the acquisition of another company by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company (including by way of merger, combination or similar transaction) will not count against the number of shares of Stock that may be issued under the Plan. Available shares under a stockholder-approved plan of an acquired company (as appropriately adjusted to reflect the transaction) may be used for Awards under the Plan and do not reduce the maximum number of shares available for grant under the Plan, subject to applicable stock exchange requirements.

 

   B- 6  
 

 

4 Awards

 

4.1        General . The term of each Award shall be for such period as may be determined by the Committee, subject to the limitations set forth below. Subject to the terms of the Plan and any applicable Award Agreement, payments to be made by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company upon the grant, maturation, or exercise of an Award may be made in such forms as the Committee shall determine at the date of grant or thereafter, including, without limitation, cash, Stock, or other property. In addition to the foregoing, the Committee may impose on any Award or the exercise thereof, at the date of grant, such additional terms and conditions not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan, including, but not limited to forfeiture and clawback provisions, as the Committee shall determine; provided, however, that any such terms and conditions shall not be inconsistent with Section 409A of the Code.

 

4.2        Types of Awards . The Committee is authorized to grant the Awards described in this Section 4.2, under such terms and conditions as deemed by the Committee to be consistent with the purposes of the Plan. Such Awards may be granted with value and payment contingent upon Performance Goals. Each Award shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement containing such terms and conditions applicable to such Award as the Committee shall determine.

 

(i) Options . The Committee is authorized to grant Options to Grantees on the following terms and conditions:

 

a. Type of Award . The Award Agreement evidencing an Option shall designate the Option as either an ISO or an NQSO, as determined in the discretion of the Committee. At the time of the grant of Options, the Committee may place restrictions on the exercisability or vesting of Options that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year.

 

b. Exercise Price . The exercise price of each Option granted under this Section 4.2 shall be established by the Committee or shall be determined by a method established by the Committee at the time the Option is granted; provided, however, that the exercise price shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock on the date of grant of the Award. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the exercise price of any Substitute Awards may be issued at any such price as the Committee determines necessary in order to preserve for such newly Eligible Grantee the economic value of all or a portion of such acquired entity award. No dividends or dividend equivalents will be paid on shares of Stock subject to an Option.

 

c. Exercise . Upon satisfaction of the applicable conditions relating to vesting and exercisability, as determined by the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement, and upon provision for the payment in full of the exercise price and applicable taxes due, the Grantee shall be entitled to exercise the Option and receive the number of shares of Stock issuable in connection with the Option exercise provided, however, that no Option may be exercised more than ten years after its grant date. Except as set forth in Section 4.3 hereof, no NQSO granted hereunder may be exercised after the earlier of (A) the expiration of the NQSO or (B) unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award Agreement, ninety days after the severance of an NQSO holder’s employment or service with the Company or any Subsidiary. The shares issued in connection with the Option exercise may be subject to such conditions and restrictions as the Committee may determine, from time to time. An Option may be exercised by any method as may be permitted by the Committee from time to time, including but not limited to any “net exercise” or other “cashless” exercise method.

 

   B- 7  
 

 

d. Restrictions Relating to ISOs . In addition to being subject to the terms and conditions of this Section 4.2(i), ISOs shall comply with all other requirements under Section 422 of the Code. Accordingly, ISOs may be granted only to Eligible Grantees who are employees (as described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.421-7(h)) of the Company or of any “Parent Corporation” (as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code) or of any “Subsidiary Corporation” (as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code) on the date of grant. The aggregate Fair Market Value (determined as of the time the ISO is granted) of the Stock with respect to which ISOs (under all option plans of the Company and of any Parent Corporation and of any Subsidiary Corporation) are exercisable for the first time by an Eligible Grantee during any calendar year shall not exceed $100,000. ISOs shall not be transferable by the Eligible Grantee otherwise than by will or the laws of descent and distribution and shall be exercisable, during the Eligible Grantee's lifetime, only by such Eligible Grantee. The Committee shall not grant ISOs to any Employee who, at the time the ISO is granted, owns stock possessing (after the application of the attribution rules of Section 424(d) of the Code) more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting stock of the Company or of any Parent Corporation or of any Subsidiary Corporation, unless the exercise price of the ISO is fixed at not less than one hundred and ten percent (110%) of the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date of grant and the exercise of such ISO is prohibited by its terms after the fifth (5th) anniversary of the ISO's date of grant. In addition, no ISO shall be issued to an Eligible Grantee in tandem with a NQSO issued to such Eligible Grantee in accordance with Treasury Regulation Section 14a.422A-1, Q/A-39.

 

(ii) SARs . The Committee is authorized to grant SARs to Grantees on the following terms and conditions:

 

a. In General . SARs may be granted independently or in tandem with an Option at the time of grant of the related Option. An SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be exercisable only to the extent the underlying Option is exercisable. Payment of an SAR may be made in cash, Stock, or a combination of the foregoing, as specified in the Award Agreement or determined in the sole discretion of the Committee. At the time of the grant of SARs, the Committee may place restrictions on the exercisability or vesting of SARs that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year.

 

b. Term and Exercisability of SARs . SARs shall be exercisable over the exercise period at such times and upon such conditions as the Committee may determine, as reflected in the Award Agreement; provided, however, that no SAR may be exercised more than ten years after its grant date. Except as set forth in Section 4.3 hereof, no SAR granted hereunder may be exercised after the earlier of (A) the expiration of the SAR or (B) unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award Agreement, ninety days after the severance of an SAR holder’s employment or service with the Company or any Subsidiary.

 

c. Payment . An SAR shall confer on the Grantee a right to receive an amount with respect to each share of Stock subject thereto, upon exercise thereof, equal to the excess of (A) the Fair Market Value of one share of Stock on the date of exercise over (B) the grant price of the SAR (which in the case of an SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be equal to the exercise price of the underlying Option, and which in the case of any other SAR shall be such price as the Committee may determine but in no event shall be less than the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock on the date of grant of such SAR). An SAR may be exercised by giving written notice of such exercise to the Committee or its designated agent. No dividends or dividend equivalents will be paid on shares of Stock subject to an SAR.

 

(iii) Restricted Stock . The Committee is authorized to grant Restricted Stock to Grantees on the following terms and conditions:

 

a. Issuance and Restrictions . Restricted Stock shall be subject to such restrictions on transferability and other restrictions, if any, as the Committee may impose at the date of grant, which restrictions may lapse separately or in combination at such times, under such circumstances, in such installments, or otherwise, as the Committee may determine. The Committee may place restrictions on Restricted Stock that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year. Except to the extent restricted under the Award Agreement relating to the Restricted Stock, a Grantee granted Restricted Stock shall have all of the rights of a stockholder including, without limitation, the right to vote Restricted Stock and the right to receive dividends thereon.

 

   B- 8  
 

 

b. Certificates for Stock . Restricted Stock granted under the Plan may be evidenced in such manner as the Committee shall determine. If certificates representing Restricted Stock are registered in the name of the Grantee, such certificates shall bear an appropriate legend referring to the terms, conditions, and restrictions applicable to such Restricted Stock, and the Company may retain physical possession of the certificate.

 

c. Dividends . Except to the extent restricted under the applicable Award Agreement, cash dividends paid on Restricted Stock shall be paid at the dividend payment date subject to no restriction. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, Stock distributed in connection with a stock split or stock dividend shall be subject to the transfer restrictions, forfeiture risks and vesting conditions to the same extent as the Restricted Stock with respect to which such Stock or other property has been distributed. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may not provide for the current payment of dividends for Restricted Stock subject to Performance Goals; for such Awards, dividends may accrue but shall not be payable unless and until the Award vests upon satisfaction of the applicable Performance Goals and all other applicable conditions to vesting.

 

(iv) Restricted Stock Units . The Committee is authorized to grant Restricted Stock Units to Grantees, subject to the following terms and conditions:

 

a. Conditions to Vesting . At the time of the grant of Restricted Stock Units, the Committee may place restrictions on Restricted Stock Units that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year.

 

b. Benefit upon Vesting . Unless otherwise provided in an Award Agreement, upon the vesting of a Restricted Stock Unit, there shall be delivered to the Grantee, within 30 days of the date on which such Award (or any portion thereof) vests, the number of shares of Stock equal to the number of Restricted Stock Units becoming so vested.

 

c. Dividend Equivalents . To the extent provided in an Award Agreement, subject to the requirements of Section 409A of the Code, an Award of Restricted Stock Units may provide the Grantee with the right to receive dividend equivalent payments with respect to Stock subject to the Award (both before and after the Stock subject to the Award is earned, vested, or acquired), which payments may be either made currently or credited to an account for the Grantee, and may be settled in cash or Stock, as determined by the Committee. Any such settlements and any such crediting of dividend equivalents may, at the time of grant of the Restricted Stock Unit, be made subject to the transfer restrictions, forfeiture risks, vesting and conditions of the Restricted Stock Units and subject to such other conditions, restrictions and contingencies as the Committee shall establish at the time of grant of the Restricted Stock Unit, including the reinvestment of such credited amounts in Stock equivalents, provided that all such conditions, restrictions and contingencies shall comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code. Notwithstanding the foregoing in this Section 4.2(iv)(c), dividend equivalents may accrue on unearned Restricted Stock Units subject to Performance Goals but shall not be payable unless and until the applicable Performance Goals are met and certified.

 

(v) Other Stock-Based Awards . The Committee is authorized to grant Awards to Grantees in the form of Other Stock-Based Awards, as deemed by the Committee to be consistent with the purposes of the Plan. At the time of the grant of Other Stock-Based Awards, the Committee may place restrictions on the payout or vesting of Other Stock-Based Awards that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year. The Committee shall determine the terms and conditions of such Awards at the date of grant. Other Stock-Based Awards may not be granted with the right to receive dividend equivalent payments.

 

   B- 9  
 

 

(vi) Settlement of Options and SARs . Shares of Stock delivered pursuant to the exercise of an Option or SAR shall be subject to such conditions, restrictions and contingencies as the Committee may establish in the applicable Award Agreement. Settlement of SARs may be made in shares of Stock (valued at their Fair Market Value at the time of exercise), in cash, or in a combination thereof, as determined in the discretion of the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement. The Committee, in its discretion, may impose such conditions, restrictions and contingencies with respect to shares of Stock acquired pursuant to the exercise of an Option or an SAR as the Committee determines to be desirable.

 

(vii) Vesting; Additional Terms . Subject to Section 2.6, and except as provided in Section 4.3, hereof, other than Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Other Stock-Based Awards conditioned upon the attainment of Performance Goals that relate to performance periods of at least one fiscal year, Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Other Stock-Based Awards granted hereunder shall vest as determined by the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement. The term of any Award granted under the Plan will not exceed ten years from the date of grant.

 

(viii) Qualified Performance-Based Compensation .

 

a. The Committee may determine that Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Other Stock-Based Awards granted to a Covered Employee shall be considered “performance-based compensation,” or Performance Awards, in which case the provisions of this Section 4.2(viii) shall apply. To the extent required pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder, the Committee’s authority to grant new awards that are intended to qualify as performance-based compensation within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code (other than qualifying Options and qualifying SARs) shall terminate upon the first meeting of the Company’s stockholders that occurs in the fifth year following the year in which the Company’s stockholders first approve this Plan.

 

b. When Performance Awards are made under this Section 4.2(viii), the Committee shall establish in writing (i) the objective Performance Goals that must be met, (ii) the period during which performance will be measured, (iii) the maximum amounts that may be paid if the Performance Goals are met, and (iv) any other conditions that the Committee deems appropriate and consistent with the requirements of Section 162(m) of the Code. The Performance Goals shall satisfy the Committee’s requirements for “performance-based compensation,” including the requirement that the achievement of the goals be substantially uncertain at the time they are established and that the Performance Goals be established in such a way that a third party with knowledge of the relevant facts could determine whether and to what extent the Performance Goals have been met. The Committee shall not have discretion to increase the amount of compensation that is payable, but may reduce the amount of compensation that is payable, pursuant to Performance Awards identified by the Committee as “performance-based compensation.”

 

c. At the time each a Performance Award is granted, the Committee shall establish in writing the Performance Period, the Performance Measure and the Performance Goals in respect of such Performance Awards.

 

d. The Committee in its sole discretion shall have the authority to make equitable adjustments to the Performance Goals in recognition of unusual or non-recurring events affecting the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company or the financial statements of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company, for the following items: (1) asset write-downs; (2) litigation or claim judgments or settlements; (3) the effect of changes in tax laws, accounting principles, regulations, or other laws or regulations affecting reported results; (4) any reorganization and restructuring programs, including discontinued operations; (5) acquisitions or divestitures; (6) unusual nonrecurring or extraordinary items identified in the Company’s audited financial statements, including footnotes; (7) any reorganization or change in the corporate or capital structures of the Company; (8) foreign exchange gains and losses; (9) business interruption events; (10) annual incentive payments or other bonuses; or (11) capital charges, provided such adjustment is appropriate and consistent with the requirements established by the Committee to which the Performance Goal relates. In addition, the Committee may specify that certain equitable adjustments to the Performance Goals will be made during the applicable Performance Period, provided such specification is appropriate and consistent with the requirements established by the Committee pursuant to Section 4.2(viii)(c) hereof.

 

   B- 10  
 

 

e. The Committee shall certify the performance results for the performance period specified in the Award Agreement after the Performance Period ends. The Committee shall determine the amount, if any, to be paid pursuant to each Award based on the achievement of the Performance Goals and the satisfaction of all other terms of the Award Agreement. Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 3.4 hereof, the following limits will apply to Awards of the specified type granted to any one Grantee in any single fiscal year:

 

(i) Appreciation Awards – Options and SARs: 2,625,000 shares; and

 

(ii) Full Value Awards – Awards (other than Options and SARs) that are denominated in Shares: 1,750,000 shares.

 

In applying the foregoing limits, (a) all Awards of the specified type granted to the same Grantee in the same fiscal year will be aggregated and made subject to one limit; (b) the limits applicable to Options and SARs refer to the number of shares of Stock subject to those Awards; (c) the share limit under clause (ii) refers to the maximum number of shares of Stock that may be delivered under an Award or Awards of the type specified in clause (ii) assuming a maximum payout; and (d) each of the specified limits in clauses (i) and (ii) is multiplied by two (2) for Awards granted to a Grantee in the year employment commences.

 

f. The Committee may provide in the Award Agreement that Awards under this Section 4.2(viii) shall be payable, in whole or in part, in the event of the Grantee’s death or Disability, or under other circumstances consistent with the Treasury regulations and rulings under Section 162(m) of the Code.

 

(ix) Automatic Extended Exercisability in Certain Cases . Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section, if the date an Award would otherwise terminate is a date that the Grantee is prohibited from exercising the Award under the Company’s insider trading policy or such other conditions under applicable securities laws as the Committee shall specify, the term of the Award shall be extended to the second business day after the Grantee is no longer so prohibited from exercising the Award, but in no event shall the Award be extended beyond the original stated term of the Award.

 

4.3        Change of Control of the Company.

 

(i) The Committee may, at the time an Award is made or at any time prior to, coincident with or after the time of a Change of Control:

 

a. provide for the cancellation of any Awards then outstanding if the surviving entity or acquiring entity (or the surviving or acquiring entity’s parent company) in the Change of Control replaces the Awards with new rights of substantially equivalent value, as determined by the Committee. For an Award to be validly assumed by a successor for purpose of this Section 4.3(i)(a), it must (x) provide such Grantee with rights and entitlements substantially equivalent to or better than the rights, terms and conditions applicable under such Award, including, but not limited to, an identical or better exercise or vesting schedules; (y) have substantially equivalent value to such Award (determined at the time of the Change in Control); and (z) be based on stock that is traded on an established U.S. securities market or an established securities market outside the United Stated upon which the Grantees could readily trade the stock without administrative burdens or complexities. In the event of any ambiguity or discrepancy, the determination of the Committee shall be final and binding;

 

b. provide that upon an involuntary termination of a Grantee’s employment as a result of a Change of Control, any time periods shall accelerate, and any other conditions relating to the vesting, exercise, payment or distribution of an Award shall be waived; or

 

   B- 11  
 

 

c. provide that Awards shall be purchased for an amount of cash equal to the amount that could have been obtained for the shares covered by a Restricted Stock Award if it had been vested and or by an Option or SAR if it had been exercised at the time of the Change of Control, provided however that Awards outstanding as of the date of the Change in Control may be cancelled and terminated without payment if the consideration payable with respect to one share of Stock in connection with the Change in Control is less than the exercise price or grant price applicable to such Award, as applicable.

 

(ii) Notwithstanding any other provisions of the Plan or an Award Agreement to the contrary, the vesting, payment, purchase or distribution of an Award may not be accelerated by reason of a Change of Control for any Grantee unless the Grantee’s employment is involuntarily terminated as a result of the Change of Control as provided in the Award Agreement or in any other written agreement, including an employment agreement, between us and the Grantee .

 

4.4        Limitation on Award Grants to Non-Employee Directors . The maximum number of shares of Stock subject to Awards granted during a single fiscal year to any non-employee director, taken together with any cash fees paid to such non-employee director during the fiscal year, shall not exceed $350,000 in total value (calculating the value of any such Awards based on the grant date fair value of such Awards for financial reporting purposes); provided , that the Board may make exceptions to this limit for individual non-employee directors in extraordinary circumstances as the Board may determine in its sole discretion, so long as (x) the aggregate limit does not exceed $500,000 in total value during a fiscal year and (y) the non-employee director receiving such additional compensation does not participate in the decision to award such compensation or in other contemporaneous compensation decisions involving non-employee directors.

 

5 Operation

 

5.1        Duration . Grants may be made under the Plan through September 6, 2028. In the event of Plan termination while Awards remain outstanding, the Plan shall remain in effect as long as any Awards under it are outstanding, although no further grants may be made following Plan termination.

 

5.2        Uncertificated Stock . Nothing contained in the Plan shall prohibit the issuance of Stock on an uncertificated basis, to the extent allowed by the Company’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, by applicable law and by the applicable rules of any stock exchange.

 

5.3        Tax Withholding . All distributions under the Plan are subject to withholding of all applicable taxes, and the Committee may condition the delivery of any shares or other benefits under the Plan on satisfaction of the applicable withholding obligations. The Committee, in its discretion, and subject to such requirements as the Committee may impose prior to the occurrence of such withholding, may permit such withholding obligations to be satisfied through cash payment by the Grantee, through the surrender of shares of Stock which the Grantee already owns, through withholding from other compensation payable to the Grantee or through the surrender of unrestricted shares of Stock to which the Grantee is otherwise entitled under the Plan, but only to the extent of the minimum amount required to be withheld under applicable law (or, if permitted by the Company, such other withholding rate as will not cause adverse accounting consequences and is permitted under applicable IRS withholding rules).

 

5.4        Use of Shares.  Subject to the limitations on the number of shares of Stock that may be delivered under the Plan, the Committee may use available shares of Stock as the form of payment for compensation, grants or rights earned or due under any other compensation plans or arrangements of the Company or a Subsidiary, including the plans and arrangements of the Company or a Subsidiary assumed in business combinations.

 

5.5        Non-transferability . Awards granted under the Plan, and during any period of restriction on transferability, shares of Common Stock issued in connection with the exercise of an Option or a SAR, or vesting of a Restricted Stock Award may not be sold, pledged, hypothecated, assigned, margined or otherwise transferred by a Grantee in any manner other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution, unless and until the shares underlying such Award have been issued, and all restrictions applicable to such shares have lapsed or have been waived by the Committee. No Award or interest or right therein shall be subject to the debts, contracts or engagements of a Grantee or his or her successors in interest or shall be subject to disposition by transfer, alienation, anticipation, pledge, encumbrance, assignment or any other means whether such disposition be voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law, by judgment, lien, levy, attachment, garnishment or any other legal or equitable proceedings (including bankruptcy and divorce), and any attempted disposition thereof shall be null and void, of no effect, and not binding on the Company in any way. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may permit Options and/or shares issued in connection with an Option or a SAR exercise that are subject to restrictions on transferability, to be transferred one time and without payment or consideration to a member of a Grantee’s immediate family or to a trust or similar vehicle for the benefit of a Grantee’s immediate family members. During the lifetime of a Grantee, all rights with respect to Awards shall be exercisable only by such Grantee or, if applicable pursuant to the preceding sentence, a permitted transferee.

 

   B- 12  
 

 

5.6        Form and Time of Elections . Unless otherwise specified herein, each election required or permitted to be made by any Grantee or other person entitled to benefits under the Plan, and any permitted modification, or revocation thereof, shall be in writing filed with the Committee at such times, in such form, and subject to such restrictions and limitations, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, as the Committee shall require.

 

5.7        Agreement with Company . An Award under the Plan shall be subject to such terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the Plan, as the Committee shall, in its sole discretion, prescribe. The terms and conditions of any Award to any Grantee shall be reflected in such form of written document as is determined by the Committee. A copy of such document shall be provided to the Grantee, and the Committee may, but need not, require that the Grantee shall sign a copy of such document. Such document is referred to in the Plan as an “Award Agreement” regardless of whether any Grantee signature is required.

 

5.8        Gender and Number . Where the context admits, words in any gender shall include any other gender, words in the singular shall include the plural and the plural shall include the singular.

 

5.9        Limitation of Implied Rights.

 

(i) The Plan shall at all times be unfunded and neither a Grantee nor any other person shall, by reason of participation in the Plan, acquire any right in or title to any assets, funds or property of the Company or any Subsidiary whatsoever, including, without limitation, any specific funds, assets, or other property which the Company or any Subsidiary, in its sole discretion, may set aside in anticipation of a liability under the Plan. Nothing contained in the Plan and no action taken pursuant hereto shall create or be construed to create a fiduciary relationship between the Company and any Grantee or any other person. A Grantee shall have only a contractual right to the Stock or amounts, if any, payable under the Plan, unsecured by any assets of the Company or any Subsidiary, and nothing contained in the Plan shall constitute a guarantee that the assets of the Company or any Subsidiary shall be sufficient to pay any benefits to any person.

 

(ii) The Plan does not constitute a contract of employment or service, and selection as a Grantee will not give any participating Employee, Non-Employee Director or Key Advisor the right to be retained in the employ or service of the Company or any Subsidiary, nor any right or claim to any benefit under the Plan, unless such right or claim has specifically accrued under the terms of the Plan. Except as otherwise provided in the Plan or the Award Agreement, no Award under the Plan shall confer upon the holder thereof any rights as a stockholder of the Company prior to the date on which the individual fulfills all conditions for receipt of such rights.

 

5.10        Section 409A . It is intended that all Options and SARs granted under the Plan shall be exempt from the provisions of Section 409A of the Code and that all other Awards under the Plan, to the extent that they constitute “non-qualified deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, will comply with Section 409A of the Code (and any regulations and guidelines issued thereunder). The Plan and any Award Agreements issued hereunder may be amended in any respect deemed by the Board or the Committee to be necessary in order to preserve compliance with Section 409A of the Code. Notwithstanding anything in this Plan to the contrary, if required by Section 409A of the Code, if a Grantee is considered a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A of the Code and if payment of any Award under this Plan is required to be delayed for a period of six months after “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, payment of such Award shall be delayed as required by Section 409A of the Code, and the accumulated amounts with respect to such Award shall be paid in a lump sum payment within ten days after the end of the six month period. If the Grantee dies during the postponement period prior to the payment of benefits, the amounts withheld on account of Section 409A of the Code shall be paid to the Grantee’s beneficiary within sixty (60) days after the date of the Grantee’s death. For purposes of Section 409A of the Code, each payment under the Plan shall be treated as a separate payment. In no event shall a Grantee, directly or indirectly, designate the calendar year of payment. To the extent that any provision of the Plan would cause a conflict with the requirements of section 409A of the Code, or would cause the administration of the Plan to fail to satisfy the requirements of Section 409A of the Code, such provision shall be deemed null and void to the extent permitted by applicable law. Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or any Award Agreement to the contrary, each Grantee shall be solely responsible for the tax consequences of Awards under the Plan, and in no event shall the Company have any responsibility or liability if an Award does not meet any applicable requirements of Section 409A of the Code. Although the Company intends to administer the Plan to prevent taxation under Section 409A of the Code, the Company does not represent or warrant that the Plan or any Award complies with any provision of federal, state, local or other tax law.

 

   B- 13  
 

 

5.11        Regulations and Other Approvals .

 

(i) The obligation of the Company to sell or deliver Stock with respect to any Award granted under the Plan shall be subject to all applicable laws, rules and regulations, including all applicable federal and state securities laws, and the obtaining of all such approvals by governmental agencies as may be deemed necessary or appropriate by the Committee.

 

(ii) Each Award is subject to the requirement that, if at any time the Committee determines, in its absolute discretion, that the listing, registration or qualification of Stock issuable pursuant to the Plan is required by any securities exchange or under any state or federal law, or the consent or approval of any governmental regulatory body is necessary or desirable as a condition of, or in connection with, the grant of an Award or the issuance of Stock, no such Award shall be granted or payment made or Stock issued, in whole or in part, unless listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval has been effected or obtained free of any conditions not acceptable to the Committee.

 

(iii) In the event that the disposition of Stock acquired pursuant to the Plan is not covered by a then current registration statement under the Securities Act and is not otherwise exempt from such registration, such Stock shall be restricted against transfer to the extent required by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or regulations thereunder, and applicable state securities laws, and the Committee may require a Grantee receiving Stock pursuant to the Plan, as a condition precedent to receipt of such Stock, to represent to the Company in writing that the Stock acquired by such Grantee is acquired for investment only and not with a view to distribution.

 

(iv) With respect to persons subject to Section 16 of the 1934 Act, it is the intent of the Company that the Plan and all transactions under the Plan comply with all applicable provisions of Rule 16b-3.

 

(v) All Awards under the Plan will be subject to any compensation, clawback and recoupment policies that may be applicable to the employees of the Company, as in effect from time to time and as approved by the Board or Committee, whether or not approved before or after the Effective Date. Subject to the requirements of applicable law, any such compensation, clawback and recoupment policies shall apply to Awards made after the effective date of the policy.

 

5.12        Non-Employee Director Award Deferrals . The Committee may permit a Non-Employee Director to defer receipt of the payment of cash or the delivery of shares that would otherwise be due to such Non-Employee Director in connection with any Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Other Stock-Based Awards. If any such deferral election is permitted, the Committee shall establish rules and procedures for such deferrals and may provide for interest or other earnings to be paid on such deferrals, which rules and procedures shall be consistent with applicable requirements of Section 409A of the Code. Unless otherwise specified in a Non-Employee Director’s valid election, any deferred amount will be deferred until the earliest to occur of the Non-Employee Director’s death, separation from service, or Change of Control; provided that any such deferral election is made by the Non-Employee Director on or prior to December 31 of the calendar year preceding the calendar year in which any such amounts are earned, or, if such Non-Employee Director is newly eligible for purposes of Section 409A of the Code, then within 30 days following the date he or she is first eligible, and then only with respect to amounts earned after the date of the election.

 

   B- 14  
 

 

6 Amendment and Termination

 

The Plan may be terminated or amended by the Board at any time, except that the following actions may not be taken without stockholder approval:

 

(i) any increase in the number of shares that may be issued under the Plan (except by certain adjustments provided for under the Plan);

 

(ii) any change in the class of persons eligible to receive ISOs under the Plan;

 

(iii) any change in the requirements of Sections 4.2(i)(b) and 4.2(ii)(c) hereof regarding the exercise price of Options and the grant price of SARs;

 

(iv) any repricing or cancellation and regrant of any Option or, if applicable, other Award at a lower exercise, base or purchase price, as set forth in Section 2.3 hereof; or

 

(v) any other amendment to the Plan that would require approval of the Company’s stockholders under applicable law, regulation or rule or stock exchange listing requirement.

 

Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, adjustments pursuant to Section 3 hereof shall not be subject to the foregoing limitations of this Section 6.

 

7 Governing Law

 

The Plan and all Award Agreements entered into under the Plan shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of New York, except that any principles or provisions of New York law that would apply the law of another jurisdiction (other than applicable provisions of U.S. Federal law) shall be disregarded. Notwithstanding the foregoing, matters with respect to indemnification, delegation of authority under the Plan, and the legality of shares of Stock issued under the Plan, shall be governed by the Delaware General Corporation Law.

 

8 Severability

 

If any of the provision of this Plan is finally held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable (whether in whole or in part), such provision shall be deemed modified to the extent, but only to the extent, of such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability and the remaining provisions shall not be affected thereby; provided that, if any such provision is finally held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable because it exceeds the maximum scope determined to be acceptable to permit such provision to be enforceable, such provision shall be deemed modified to the minimum extent necessary in order to make such provision enforceable.

 

9 Clawback and Non-compete

 

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Plan, any Award which is subject to recovery under any law, government regulation, stock exchange listing requirement, or Company policy, will be subject to such deductions and clawback as may be required to be made pursuant to such law, government regulation or stock exchange listing requirement, or any policy adopted by the Company whether pursuant to any such law, government regulation or stock exchange listing requirement or otherwise. In addition and notwithstanding any other provisions of this Plan, any Award shall be subject to such noncompete provisions under the terms of the Agreement or any other agreement or policy adopted by the Company, including, without limitation, any such terms providing for immediate termination and forfeiture of an Award if and when a Participant becomes an employee, agent or principal of a competitor without the express written consent of the Company.

 

* * * * *

 

  B- 15  
 

 

 

   

 

 

4. To approve approve a frequency of “Three Years” for future advisory votes on executive compensation. 2 Years 3 Years Abstain 1 Year 01 ________ Milton “Todd” Ault, III* 04 ________ Moti Rosenberg* 02 ________ Amos Kohn* 05 ________ Jeffrey Bentz* 03 ________ Robert Smith* 06 ________ William Horne* For Withhold For Withhold For Withhold 1 U P X Using a black ink pen, mark your votes with an X as shown in this example. Please do not write outside the designated areas. 032QLD + + Proposals — The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR all the nominees listed, FOR Proposals 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7, and for 3 YEARS for A Proposal 4. 2. To ratify the appointment of Marcum, LLP, as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019. 3. To approve on a non-binding advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers. 1. Election of Directors: For Against Abstain Please sign exactly as name(s) appears hereon. Joint owners should each sign. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, corporate officer, trustee, guardian, or custodian, please give full title. Date (mm/dd/yyyy) — Please print date below. Signature 1 — Please keep signature within the box. Signature 2 — Please keep signature within the box. B Authorized Signatures — This section must be completed for your vote to be counted. — Date and Sign Below 5. To approve an amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split of our Class A Common Stock by a ratio of not less than one-for-5 and not more than one-for-40 at any time prior to July 1, 2020, with the exact ratio to be set at a whole number within this range as determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion. qIF VOTING BY MAIL, SIGN, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.q Annual Meeting Proxy Card For Against Abstain To cumulate votes as to a particular nominee or nominees as explained in the Proxy Statement, check the box to the right and then indicate the number of votes to be given to such nominee(s) next to his or her name. NOTE: If you wish to use cumulative voting, you MUST vote your proxy by mail. * To be elected as directors to serve until the next annual meeting and until their respective successors are elected and qualified. You may vote online or by phone instead of mailing this card. Online Go to www.envisionreports.com/DPW or scan the QR code — login details are located in the shaded bar below. Save paper, time and money! Sign up for electronic delivery at www.envisionreports.com/DPW Phone Call toll free 1-800-652-VOTE (8683) within the USA, US territories and Canada Votes submitted electronically must be received by 11:59 p.m, Eastern Time, on July 1, 2019. Your vote matters – here’s how to vote! Small steps make an impact. Help the environment by consenting to receive electronic delivery, sign up at www.envisionreports.com/DPW 201 Shipyard Way Newport Beach, CA 92663 (949) 444-5464 THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS The undersigned hereby appoints Milton “Todd” Ault, III and William B. Horne, or any one of them, as proxy, with full power to appoint substitutes, and hereby authorizes Messrs. Ault and Horne, or any one of them, to represent and to vote as designated below, all the shares of common stock of DPW Holdings, Inc., held of record by the undersigned as of May 23, 2019, at the 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held at the Hyatt Regency, Newport Beach, located at 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660, at 9 a.m. Pacific Time, on July 2, 2019, and any adjournments or postponements thereof, and hereby ratifies all that said proxies may do by virtue hereof. THIS PROXY, WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED, WILL BE VOTED IN THE MANNER DIRECTED HEREIN BY THE UNDERSIGNED STOCKHOLDER. IF NO DIRECTION IS MADE, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES LISTED (AND THE PROXYHOLDER WILL HAVE DISCRETIONARY AUTHORITY TO CUMULATE VOTES AMONG NOMINEES) IN PROPOSAL ONE AND FOR THE AMENDMENT TO THE COMPANY'S CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION IN PROPOSAL FIVE. THE PROXY HOLDER WILL HAVE DISCRETIONARY AUTHORITY TO VOTE WITH RESPECT TO OTHER BUSINESS WHICH PROPERLY MAY COME BEFORE THE MEETING, OR ANY ADJOURNMENTS OR POSTPONEMENTS THEREOF. PLEASE READ, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THIS PROXY PROMPTLY USING THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. (IF YOU VOTE BY INTERNET, PLEASE DO NOT MAILBACK THIS PROXY CARD). THE UNDERSIGNED HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OF THE NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING AND PROXY STATEMENT FURNISHED IN CONNECTION THEREWITH. Proxy — DPW HOLDINGS, INC. qIF VOTING BY MAIL, SIGN, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.q C Non-Voting Items + + Change of Address — Please print new address below. 6. To approve (i) the grant of 250,000 shares of Common Stock, which shares shall vest fifty percent upon the effective date of the agreement, with the remainder vesting ratably over 48 months beginning on June 1, 2019, and (ii) the grant of options to purchase 750,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $0.22, which option will vest ratably over 48 months, and the underlying shares of Common Stock issuable thereunder, pursuant to the terms of the Nisser Employment Agreement dated April 12, 2019, as subsequently amended, in order to comply with listing Rule 711 of the NYSE American. 7. To approve approve an amendment to the DPW Holdings, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2018 Plan”), which, if adopted by our stockholders, would, among other things: • Increase the number of shares of our common stock that may be issued pursuant to stock-based awards made under the 2018 Plan by 6,500,000 shares for a total of 7,000,000 shares; and • Enable the 2018 Plan to continue to satisfy the requirements set forth in Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the related regulations with respect to “qualified performancebased compensation.” For Against Abstain For Against Abstain