UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 8-K
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of The Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): January 18, 2022
DSS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| New York | 001-32146 | 16-1229730 | ||
|
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation) |
(Commission File Number) |
(IRS Employer Identification No.) |
6 Framark Drive
Victor, New York 14564
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (585) 325-3610
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report.)
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:
| ☐ | Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425) |
| ☐ | Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12) |
| ☐ | Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b)) |
| ☐ | Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c)) |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of each class | Trading Symbol(s) | Name of each exchange on which registered | ||
| Common Stock, $0.02 Par Value | DSS | The NYSE American LLC |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
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. ☐
Item 1.01 Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement.
On January 18, 2022, DSS, Inc. (the “Company”) entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “AIL Subscription Agreement”) with its shareholder Alset EHome International Inc. (“AEI”), which currently owns 15.24% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock, pursuant to which AEI sold to the Company 877,248,065 ordinary shares, no par value per share, of Alset International Limited for a purchase price of 59,979,582 newly issued shares of the Company’s common stock. Following the closing of this transaction, AEI will own 55.52% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock and will be the majority shareholder of the Company.
On January 18, 2022, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “True Partners Subscription Agreement”) with AEI, pursuant to which AEI sold to the Company 100% of the shares of common stock of its wholly owned subsidiary True Partner International Limited (HK) (“TP”), and all of TP’s 62,122,908 ordinary shares of True Partner Capital Holding Limited, for a purchase price of 11,397,080 newly issued shares of the Company’s common stock.
These transaction are with AEI, a related party. Mr. Heng Fai Ambrose Chan is the largest beneficial shareholder of AEI and the Chairman of both AEI and DSS.
The closings of these transactions is subject to approval of the NYSE and the Company’s stockholders.
The foregoing summary of the AEI Subscription Agreement and the True Partners Subscription Agreement are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of the AEI Subscription Agreement and the True Partners Subscription Agreement, a copy of each is filed herewith as Exhibit 10.1 and Exhibit 10.2 respectively, to this Current Report on Form 8-K and incorporated herein by reference.
Item 8.01. Other Events.
On January 19, 2022 the Company issued a press release announcing its entry into the AIL Subscription Agreement and True Partners Subscription Agreement. A copy of this press release is attached as Exhibit 99.1
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.
(d) Exhibits:
| Number | Description | |
| 10.1 | Stock Purchase Agreement with DSS, Inc. | |
| 10.2 | Stock Purchase Agreement with DSS, Inc. | |
| 99.1 | Press Release January 19, 2022 | |
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document) |
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
| DOCUMENT SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC. | ||
| January 19, 2022 | By: | /s/ Jason Grady |
| Name: | Jason Grady | |
| Title: | Chief Operative Officer | |
Exhibit 10.1
STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT
This STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made as of January 18, 2022 by and among DSS, Inc., a New York Corporation, (the “Buyer”), and Alset EHome International, Inc. (the “Seller”).
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Seller and Buyer are executing and delivering this Agreement in reliance upon the exemption from securities registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Rule 506(b) of Regulation D (“Regulation D”) as promulgated under the Securities Act;
WHEREAS, Seller is the beneficial owner of 2,688,095,265 shares of common stock of Alset International Limited, a Singapore company (“Alset International”)
WHEREAS, the Seller wishes to sell 877,248,065 shares of common stock, no par value per share, of Alset International (the “Alset International Common Stock”) to Buyer in exchange for 60,798,217 shares of common stock, $0.02 par value per share, of the Buyer (the “DSS Common Stock”), upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
WHEREAS, the Buyer wishes to purchase 877,248,065 shares of Alset International Common Stock from Seller in exchange for 60,798,217 shares of DSS Common Stock, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, Seller and Buyer hereby agree as follows:
1. SALE AND PURCHASE OF SHARES.
1.1 SALE. On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, at the Closing Seller will sell, convey, transfer and assign to Buyer, free and clear of all liens, pledges, encumbrances, changes, restrictions or known claims of any kind, nature or description, and Buyer will purchase and accept from Seller, the 877,248,065 shares of Alset International Common Stock, in the aggregate (the “Alset International Shares”),
1.2 PURCHASE. In consideration therefor, Buyer will convey, transfer and assign to Seller, and Seller will accept from Buyer, 60,798,217 shares of newly-issued shares of DSS Common Stock, in the aggregate (the “DSS Shares”) (such purchase and sale referred to as the “Purchase”). .
2. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
2.1 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES BY THE SELLER. The Seller represents and warrants to Buyer as follows as of the date hereof:
(a) Organization and Good Standing. Seller is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or organization, as the case may be.
(b) Requisite Power and Authority. Seller has all necessary power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and the other agreements and instruments entered into or delivered by any of the parties hereto in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby (the “Transaction Documents”) and to carry out their provisions. All action on Seller’s part required for the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents has been taken. Upon its execution and delivery, this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents will be valid and binding obligations of Seller, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms, except (a) as limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other laws of general application affecting enforcement of creditors’ rights, and (b) as limited by general principles of equity that restrict the availability of equitable remedies.
(c) No Violations. The execution and delivery of the Transaction Documents, and the consummation by the Seller of the transactions contemplated thereby, does not (i) result in a violation of either the Certificate of Incorporation or By-laws of the Seller, or (ii) constitute a default under (or an event which with notice or lapse of time or both could become a default) or give to others any rights of termination, amendment or cancellation of, any material agreement, indenture or instrument to which the Seller is a party unless the same shall have been waived or consented to by the other party, or result in a violation of any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment or decree (foreign or domestic and including federal and state securities laws and regulations) applicable to the Company or by which any material property or asset of the Seller is bound or affected other than any of the foregoing which would not have a Material Adverse Effect.
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(d) Good Title. The Alset International shares owned by Seller are owned free and clear of any lien, encumbrance, adverse claim, restriction on sale, transfer or voting (other than restrictions imposed by applicable securities laws), preemptive right, option or other right to purchase, and upon the consummation of the sale of such Alset International Shares as contemplated hereby, Buyer will have good title to such Alset International Shares, free and clear of any lien, encumbrance, adverse claim, restriction on sale, transfer or voting (other than restrictions imposed by applicable securities laws), preemptive right, option or other right to purchase.
(e) Investment Representations.
| (i) | Seller understands that the DSS Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or any other applicable securities laws. Seller also understands that the DSS Shares are being offered pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, under Section 4(2) and/or Regulation D of the Securities Act. Seller acknowledges that the Buyer will rely on Seller’s representations, warranties and certifications set forth below for purposes of determining Seller’s suitability as an investor in the DSS Shares and for purposes of confirming the availability of the Section 4(2) and/or Regulation D exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. | |
| (ii) | Seller has received all the information it considers necessary or appropriate for deciding whether to acquire the DSS Shares. Seller understands the risks involved in an investment in the DSS Shares. Seller further represents that it, through its authorized representatives, has had an opportunity to ask questions and receive answers from Buyer regarding the terms and conditions of the offering of the DSS Shares and the business, properties, prospects, and financial condition of DSS, Inc. and to obtain such additional information (to the extent the Buyer possessed such information or could acquire it without unreasonable effort or expense) necessary to verify the accuracy of any information furnished to Seller or to which Seller had access. Seller further represents that it is an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of the Securities Act. | |
| (iii) | Seller is acquiring the DSS Shares for its own account for investment only and not with a view towards their resale or “distribution” (within the meaning of the Securities Act) of any part of the DSS Shares. | |
| (iv) | Seller understands that the DSS Shares may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred except in compliance with the registration requirements of the Securities Act and any other applicable securities laws or pursuant to an exemption therefrom, and in each case in compliance with the conditions set forth in this Agreement. Seller acknowledges and is aware that the DSS Shares may not be sold pursuant to Rule 144 adopted under the Securities Act unless certain conditions are met and until Seller has held the DSS Shares for the applicable holding period under Rule 144. | |
| (v) |
Seller
acknowledges and agrees that each certificate representing the DSS Shares, or book entry
made in lieu of certificates, shall bear a legend substantially in the following form:
“THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “ACT”), OR THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE. THE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER SUCH ACT AND APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS OR PURSUANT TO AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF SUCH ACT AND SUCH LAWS.” |
(f) No Reliance. Seller has not relied on and is not relying on any representations, warranties or other assurances regarding DSS, Inc. other than the representations and warranties expressly set forth in this Agreement.
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2.2 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES BY BUYER. Buyer represents and warrants to the Seller, as of the date hereof, as follows:
(a) Organization and Good Standing. Buyer is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or organization, as the case may be.
(b) Requisite Power and Authority. Buyer has all necessary power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents and to carry out their provisions. All action on Buyer’s part required for the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents has been taken. Upon its execution and delivery, this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents will be valid and binding obligations of Buyer, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms, except (a) as limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other laws of general application affecting enforcement of creditors’ rights, and (b) as limited by general principles of equity that restrict the availability of equitable remedies.
(c) Issuance of DSS Shares. The DSS Shares have been duly authorized and, upon issuance in accordance with the terms hereof, shall be validly issued and free from all taxes, liens and charges with respect to the issue thereof, and the DSS Shares shall be fully paid and non-assessable with the holder being entitled to all rights accorded to a holder of DSS Common Stock.
(d) No Reliance. Buyer has not relied on and is not relying on any representations, warranties or other assurances regarding Alset International other than the representations and warranties expressly set forth in this Agreement.
2.3 SURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations and warranties shall survive the Closing for a period of 12 months and shall be fully enforceable at law or in equity against the parties and each party’s successors and assigns.
3. CLOSING.
3.1 Conditions to Seller’s Obligations. The obligations of Seller under this Agreement, (including, without limitation, the obligation to transfer the Alset International Shares) shall be subject to satisfaction of the following conditions, unless waived by Seller: (i) Buyer shall have performed in all material respects all agreements, and satisfied in all material respects all conditions on its part to be performed or satisfied hereunder, at or prior to the Closing; (ii) all of the representations and warranties of Buyer herein shall have been true and correct in all respects when made, shall have continued to have been true and correct in all respects at all times subsequent thereto, and shall be true and correct in all material respects on and as of the Closing as though made on, as of, and with reference to such Closing; (iii) Buyer shall have executed and delivered to Seller all documents necessary to issue the DSS Shares to Seller, as contemplated by this Agreement; (iv) Buyer shall have obtained or made, as applicable, all consents, authorizations and approvals from, and all declarations, filings and registrations required to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including all items required under the incorporation document and bylaws of Buyer; (v) Buyer shall have received authorization from the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) for the issuance of the DSS Shares; and (vi) the shareholders of Buyer shall have approved this Agreement, and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, including the issuance of the DSS Shares, as and to the extent required by applicable laws, the rules and regulations of the NYSE or by the provisions of any governing instruments..
3.2 Conditions to Buyer’s Obligations. The obligations of Buyer under this Agreement, (including, without limitation, the obligation to issue the DSS Shares as payment for the transfer by Seller of the Alset International Shares) shall be subject to satisfaction of the following conditions, unless waived by Buyer: (i) Seller shall have performed in all respects all agreements, and satisfied in all respects all conditions on their part to be performed or satisfied hereunder, at or prior to the Closing; (ii) all of the representations and warranties of Seller herein shall have been true and correct in all material respects when made, shall have continued to have been true and correct in all material respects at all times subsequent thereto, and shall be true and correct in all material respects on and as of the Closing as though made on, as of, and with reference to such Closing; (iii) Seller shall have executed and delivered to Buyer all documents necessary to transfer the Alset International Shares to Buyer, as contemplated by this Agreement; and (iv) Seller shall have obtained or made, as applicable, all consents, authorizations and approvals from, and all declarations, filings and registrations required to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including all items required under the incorporation document and bylaws of Seller.
3.3 Closing Documents. At the Closing
(a) Seller shall deliver to Buyer, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Buyer (i) a duly executed copy of this Agreement, together with any other Transaction Documents (ii) certificates evidencing the Alset International Shares, together with stock powers duly for such certificates to allow such certificates to be registered in the name of Buyer, or evidence of such book-entry transfer of the Alset International Shares to Buyer; (iii) copies of resolutions adopted by the board of directors of Seller and certified by the Secretary of Seller authorizing the execution and delivery of, and performance of Seller’s obligations under, this Agreement.
(b) Buyer shall deliver to Seller, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Seller (i) a duly executed copy of this Agreement, together with any other Transaction Documents (ii) certificates evidencing the DSS Shares, together with stock powers duly for such certificates to allow such certificates to be registered in the name of Seller, or evidence of such book-entry transfer of the DSS Shares to Seller; (ii) copies of resolutions adopted by the board of directors of Buyer and certified by the Secretary of Buyer authorizing the execution and delivery of, and performance of Buyer’s obligations under, this Agreement.
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4. MISCELLANEOUS.
4.1 ADDRESSES AND NOTICES. Any and all notices or other communications or deliveries required or permitted to be provided hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed given and effective on the earliest of (a) the date of transmission, if such notice or communication is delivered via e-mail transmission prior to 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on a trading day, (b) the next trading day after the date of transmission, if such notice or communication is delivered via e-mail transmission on a day that is not a trading day or later than 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on any trading day, (c) the trading day following the date of mailing, if sent by U.S. nationally recognized overnight courier service with next day delivery specified, or (d) upon actual receipt by the party to whom such notice is required to be given. The address and e-mail address for such notices and communications shall be as follows:
Any such person may by notice given in accordance with this Section 4.1 to the other parties hereto designate another address or person for receipt by such person of notices hereunder.
4.2 TITLES AND CAPTIONS. TITLES AND CAPTIONS. All Article and Section titles or captions in this Agreement are for convenience only. They shall not be deemed part of this Agreement and do not in any way define, limit, extend or describe the scope or intent of any provisions hereof.
4.3 ASSIGNABILITY. This Agreement is not transferable or assignable by the undersigned.
4.4 PRONOUNS AND PLURALS. Whenever the context may require, any pronoun used herein shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine or neuter forms. The singular form of nouns, pronouns and verbs shall include the plural and vice versa.
4.5 FURTHER ACTION. The parties shall execute and deliver all documents, provide all information and take or forbear from taking all such action as may be necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes of this Agreement. Each party shall bear its own expenses in connection therewith.
4.6 APPLICABLE LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of New York without regard to its conflict of law rules.
4.7 BINDING EFFECT. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, administrators, successors, legal representatives, personal representatives, permitted transferees and permitted assigns. If the undersigned is more than one person, the obligation of the undersigned shall be joint and several and the agreements, representations, warranties and acknowledgments herein contained shall be deemed to be made by and be binding upon each such person and such person’s heirs, executors, administrators and successors.
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4.8 INTEGRATION. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement among the parties pertaining to the subject matter hereof and supersedes and replaces all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, whether written or oral, pertaining thereto, including without limitation, the Prior Agreement. No covenant, representation or condition not expressed in this Agreement shall affect or be deemed to interpret, change or restrict the express provisions hereof.
4.9 AMENDMENT. Neither this Agreement nor any term or provision hereof may be amended, modified, waived or supplemented orally, but only by a written consent executed by the parties hereto.
4.10 CREDITORS. None of the provisions of this Agreement shall be for the benefit of or enforceable by creditors of any party
4.11 WAIVER. No failure by any party to insist upon the strict performance of any covenant, agreement, term or condition of this Agreement or to exercise any right or remedy available upon a breach thereof shall constitute a waiver of any such breach or of such or any other covenant, agreement, term or condition.
4.12 RIGHTS AND REMEDIES. The rights and remedies of each of the parties hereunder shall be mutually exclusive, and the implementation of one or more of the provisions of this Agreement shall not preclude the implementation of any other provision.
4.13 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which will be deemed to be an original copy of this Agreement and all of which, when taken together, will be deemed to constitute one and the same agreement. In the event that any signature is delivered by facsimile transmission or by e-mail delivery of a “.pdf” format data file, such signature shall create a valid and binding obligation of the party executing (or on whose behalf such signature is executed) with the same force and effect as if such facsimile or “.pdf” signature page were an original thereof.
SIGNATURES ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be duly executed by their respective representatives hereunto authorized as of the day and year first above written.
| By Seller: | ||
| ALSET EHOME INTERNATIONAL INC. | ||
| By: | /s/ Heng Fai Ambrose Chan | |
| Name: | Heng Fai Ambrose Chan | |
| Title: | Chief Executive Officer | |
| By Buyer: | ||
| DSS, INC. | ||
| By: | /s/ Frank D. Heuszel | |
| Name: | Frank D. Heuszel | |
| Title: | Chief Executive Officer | |
Exhibit 10.2
STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT
This STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made as of January 18, 2022 by and among DSS, Inc., a New York Corporation, or its designated subsidiary (collectively, the “Buyer”), and Alset EHome International, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Seller”).
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Seller and Buyer are executing and delivering this Agreement in reliance upon the exemption from securities registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Rule 506(b) of Regulation D (“Regulation D”) as promulgated under the Securities Act;
WHEREAS, True Partner International Limited (“True Partner International”) is the owner of 62,122,908 shares of common stock True Partner Capital Holding Limited, a Cayman Islands company (“True Partner”);
WHEREAS, Seller is the owner of 100% of the shares of common stock of True Partner International and the beneficial owner of the 62,122,908 shares of common stock of True Partner held by True Partner International;
WHEREAS, the Seller wishes to sell 100% of the common stock of True Partner International (the “True Partner International Common Stock”) and 62,122,908 shares of common stock, HK$0.01 par value per share, of True Partner (the “True Partner Common Stock,” and, together with the True Partner International Common Stock, the “True Partner Shares”) to Buyer in exchange for 11,397,080 shares of common stock, $0.02 par value per share, of the Buyer (the “DSS Common Stock”), upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
WHEREAS, the Buyer wishes to purchase 62,122,908 shares of True Partner Common Stock from Seller in exchange for 11,397,080 shares of DSS Common Stock, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, Seller and Buyer hereby agree as follows:
1. SALE AND PURCHASE OF SHARES.
1.1 SALE. On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, at the Closing Seller will sell, convey, transfer and assign to Buyer, free and clear of all liens, pledges, encumbrances, changes, restrictions or known claims of any kind, nature or description, and Buyer will purchase and accept from Seller, the 62,122,908 shares of True Partner Common Stock, in the aggregate (the “True Partner Shares”),
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1.2 PURCHASE. In consideration therefor, Buyer will convey, transfer and assign to Seller, and Seller will accept from Buyer, 11,397,080 shares of newly-issued shares of DSS Common Stock, in the aggregate (the “DSS Shares”) (such purchase and sale referred to as the “Purchase”).
2. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
2.1 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES BY THE SELLER. The Seller represents and warrants to Buyer as follows as of the date hereof:
(a) Organization and Good Standing. Seller is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or organization, as the case may be.
(b) Requisite Power and Authority. Seller has all necessary power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and the other agreements and instruments entered into or delivered by any of the parties hereto in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby (the “Transaction Documents”) and to carry out their provisions. All action on Seller’s part required for the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents has been taken. Upon its execution and delivery, this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents will be valid and binding obligations of Seller, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms, except (a) as limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other laws of general application affecting enforcement of creditors’ rights, and (b) as limited by general principles of equity that restrict the availability of equitable remedies.
(c) No Violations. The execution and delivery of the Transaction Documents, and the consummation by the Seller of the transactions contemplated thereby, does not (i) result in a violation of either the Certificate of Incorporation or By-laws of the Seller, or (ii) constitute a default under (or an event which with notice or lapse of time or both could become a default) or give to others any rights of termination, amendment or cancellation of, any material agreement, indenture or instrument to which the Seller is a party unless the same shall have been waived or consented to by the other party, or result in a violation of any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment or decree (foreign or domestic and including federal and state securities laws and regulations) applicable to the Company or by which any material property or asset of the Seller is bound or affected other than any of the foregoing which would not have a Material Adverse Effect.
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(d) Good Title. The True Partner shares owned by the Seller are owned free and clear of any lien, encumbrance, adverse claim, restriction on sale, transfer or voting (other than restrictions imposed by applicable securities laws), preemptive right, option or other right to purchase, and upon the consummation of the sale of such True Partner Shares as contemplated hereby, the Buyer will have good title to such True Partner Shares, free and clear of any lien, encumbrance, adverse claim, restriction on sale, transfer or voting (other than restrictions imposed by applicable securities laws), preemptive right, option or other right to purchase.
(e) Investment Representations.
| (i) | Seller understands that the DSS Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or any other applicable securities laws. Seller also understands that the DSS Shares are being offered pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, under Section 4(2) and/or Regulation D of the Securities Act. Seller acknowledges that the Buyer will rely on Seller’s representations, warranties and certifications set forth below for purposes of determining Seller’s suitability as an investor in the DSS Shares and for purposes of confirming the availability of the Section 4(2) and/or Regulation D exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. | |
| (ii) | Seller has received all the information it considers necessary or appropriate for deciding whether to acquire the DSS Shares. Seller understands the risks involved in an investment in the DSS Shares. Seller further represents that it, through its authorized representatives, has had an opportunity to ask questions and receive answers from the Buyer regarding the terms and conditions of the offering of the DSS Shares and the business, properties, prospects, and financial condition of DSS, Inc. and to obtain such additional information (to the extent the Buyer possessed such information or could acquire it without unreasonable effort or expense) necessary to verify the accuracy of any information furnished to Seller or to which Seller had access. Seller further represents that it is an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of the Securities Act. | |
| (iii) | Seller is acquiring the DSS Shares for its own account for investment only and not with a view towards their resale or “distribution” (within the meaning of the Securities Act) of any part of the DSS Shares. | |
| (iv) | Seller understands that the DSS Shares may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred except in compliance with the registration requirements of the Securities Act and any other applicable securities laws or pursuant to an exemption therefrom, and in each case in compliance with the conditions set forth in this Agreement. Seller acknowledges and is aware that the DSS Shares may not be sold pursuant to Rule 144 adopted under the Securities Act unless certain conditions are met and until Seller has held the DSS Shares for the applicable holding period under Rule 144. |
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| (v) | Seller acknowledges and agrees that each certificate representing the DSS Shares, or book entry made in lieu of certificates, shall bear a legend substantially in the following form: | |
| “THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “ACT”), OR THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE. THE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER SUCH ACT AND APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS OR PURSUANT TO AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF SUCH ACT AND SUCH LAWS.” |
(f) No Reliance. Seller has not relied on and is not relying on any representations, warranties or other assurances regarding DSS, Inc. other than the representations and warranties expressly set forth in this Agreement.
2.2 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES BY BUYER. Buyer represents and warrants to the Seller, as of the date hereof, as follows:
(a) Organization and Good Standing. Buyer is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or organization, as the case may be.
(b) Requisite Power and Authority. Buyer has all necessary power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents and to carry out their provisions. All action on Buyer’s part required for the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents has been taken. Upon its execution and delivery, this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents will be valid and binding obligations of Buyer, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms, except (a) as limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other laws of general application affecting enforcement of creditors’ rights, and (b) as limited by general principles of equity that restrict the availability of equitable remedies.
(c) Issuance of DSS Shares. The DSS Shares have been duly authorized and, upon issuance in accordance with the terms hereof, shall be validly issued and free from all taxes, liens and charges with respect to the issue thereof, and the DSS Shares shall be fully paid and non-assessable with the holder being entitled to all rights accorded to a holder of DSS Common Stock.
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(d) No Reliance. Buyer has not relied on and is not relying on any representations, warranties or other assurances regarding True Partner other than the representations and warranties expressly set forth in this Agreement.
2.3 SURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations and warranties shall survive the Closing for a period of 12 months and shall be fully enforceable at law or in equity against the parties and each party’s successors and assigns.
3. CLOSING.
3.1 Conditions to Seller’s Obligations. The obligations of Seller under this Agreement, (including, without limitation, the obligation to transfer the True Partner Shares) shall be subject to satisfaction of the following conditions, unless waived by Seller: (i) Buyer shall have performed in all material respects all agreements, and satisfied in all material respects all conditions on its part to be performed or satisfied hereunder, at or prior to the Closing; (ii) all of the representations and warranties of the Buyer herein shall have been true and correct in all respects when made, shall have continued to have been true and correct in all respects at all times subsequent thereto, and shall be true and correct in all material respects on and as of the Closing as though made on, as of, and with reference to such Closing; (iii) Buyer shall have executed and delivered to Seller all documents necessary to issue the DSS Shares to Seller, as contemplated by this Agreement; (iv) Buyer shall have obtained or made, as applicable, all consents, authorizations and approvals from, and all declarations, filings and registrations required to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including all items required under the incorporation document and bylaws of Buyer; (v) Buyer shall have received authorization from the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) for the issuance of the DSS Shares; and (vi) the shareholders of Buyer shall have approved this Agreement, and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, including the issuance of the DSS Shares, as and to the extent required by applicable laws, the rules and regulations of the NYSE or by the provisions of any governing instruments.
3.2 Conditions to Buyer’s Obligations. The obligations of Buyer under this Agreement, (including, without limitation, the obligation to issue the DSS Shares as payment for the transfer by Seller of the True Partner Shares) shall be subject to satisfaction of the following conditions, unless waived by Buyer: (i) Seller shall have performed in all respects all agreements, and satisfied in all respects all conditions on their part to be performed or satisfied hereunder, at or prior to the Closing; (ii) all of the representations and warranties of Seller herein shall have been true and correct in all material respects when made, shall have continued to have been true and correct in all material respects at all times subsequent thereto, and shall be true and correct in all material respects on and as of the Closing as though made on, as of, and with reference to such Closing; (iii) Seller shall have executed and delivered to Buyer all documents necessary to transfer the True Partner Shares to Buyer, as contemplated by this Agreement; and (iv) Seller shall have obtained or made, as applicable, all consents, authorizations and approvals from, and all declarations, filings and registrations required to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including all items required under the incorporation document and bylaws of Seller.
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3.3 Closing Documents. At the Closing
(a) Seller shall deliver to Buyer, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Buyer (i) a duly executed copy of this Agreement, together with any other Transaction Documents (ii) certificates evidencing the True Partner Shares, together with stock powers duly for such certificates to allow such certificates to be registered in the name of Buyer, or evidence of such book-entry transfer of the True Partner Shares to Buyer; (iii) copies of resolutions adopted by the board of directors of Seller and certified by the Secretary of Seller authorizing the execution and delivery of, and performance of Seller’s obligations under, this Agreement.
(b) Buyer shall deliver to Seller, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Seller (i) a duly executed copy of this Agreement, together with any other Transaction Documents (ii) certificates evidencing the DSS Shares, together with stock powers duly for such certificates to allow such certificates to be registered in the name of Seller, or evidence of such book-entry transfer of the DSS Shares to Seller; (ii) copies of resolutions adopted by the board of directors of Buyer and certified by the Secretary of Buyer authorizing the execution and delivery of, and performance of Buyer’s obligations under, this Agreement.
4. MISCELLANEOUS.
4.1 ADDRESSES AND NOTICES. Any and all notices or other communications or deliveries required or permitted to be provided hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed given and effective on the earliest of (a) the date of transmission, if such notice or communication is delivered via e-mail transmission prior to 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on a trading day, (b) the next trading day after the date of transmission, if such notice or communication is delivered via e-mail transmission on a day that is not a trading day or later than 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on any trading day, (c) the trading day following the date of mailing, if sent by U.S. nationally recognized overnight courier service with next day delivery specified, or (d) upon actual receipt by the party to whom such notice is required to be given. The address and e-mail address for such notices and communications shall be as follows:
| If to Buyer to: |
DSS, Inc. 6 Framark Drive Victor, New York 14564 Attention: Frank Heuszel Telephone: Email: |
|
| If to Seller to: |
Alset EHome International Inc. 4800 Montgomery Lande, Suite 210 Bethesda, Maryland 20814 Attention: Michael Gershon Telephone: Email: |
|
| With copies to: |
Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP 1185 Avenue of the Americas, 31st Floor New York, New York 10036 Attention: Darrin M. Ocasio Facsimile No.: Email: |
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Any such person may by notice given in accordance with this Section 4.1 to the other parties hereto designate another address or person for receipt by such person of notices hereunder.
4.2 TITLES AND CAPTIONS. TITLES AND CAPTIONS. All Article and Section titles or captions in this Agreement are for convenience only. They shall not be deemed part of this Agreement and do not in any way define, limit, extend or describe the scope or intent of any provisions hereof.
4.3 ASSIGNABILITY. This Agreement is not transferable or assignable by the undersigned.
4.4 PRONOUNS AND PLURALS. Whenever the context may require, any pronoun used herein shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine or neuter forms. The singular form of nouns, pronouns and verbs shall include the plural and vice versa.
4.5 FURTHER ACTION. The parties shall execute and deliver all documents, provide all information and take or forbear from taking all such action as may be necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes of this Agreement. Each party shall bear its own expenses in connection therewith.
4.6 APPLICABLE LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of New York without regard to its conflict of law rules.
4.7 BINDING EFFECT. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, administrators, successors, legal representatives, personal representatives, permitted transferees and permitted assigns. If the undersigned is more than one person, the obligation of the undersigned shall be joint and several and the agreements, representations, warranties and acknowledgments herein contained shall be deemed to be made by and be binding upon each such person and such person’s heirs, executors, administrators and successors.
4.8 INTEGRATION. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement among the parties pertaining to the subject matter hereof and supersedes and replaces all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, whether written or oral, pertaining thereto, including without limitation, the Prior Agreement. No covenant, representation or condition not expressed in this Agreement shall affect or be deemed to interpret, change or restrict the express provisions hereof.
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4.9 AMENDMENT. Neither this Agreement nor any term or provision hereof may be amended, modified, waived or supplemented orally, but only by a written consent executed by the parties hereto.
4.10 CREDITORS. None of the provisions of this Agreement shall be for the benefit of or enforceable by creditors of any party
4.11 WAIVER. No failure by any party to insist upon the strict performance of any covenant, agreement, term or condition of this Agreement or to exercise any right or remedy available upon a breach thereof shall constitute a waiver of any such breach or of such or any other covenant, agreement, term or condition.
4.12 RIGHTS AND REMEDIES. The rights and remedies of each of the parties hereunder shall be mutually exclusive, and the implementation of one or more of the provisions of this Agreement shall not preclude the implementation of any other provision.
4.13 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which will be deemed to be an original copy of this Agreement and all of which, when taken together, will be deemed to constitute one and the same agreement. In the event that any signature is delivered by facsimile transmission or by e-mail delivery of a “.pdf” format data file, such signature shall create a valid and binding obligation of the party executing (or on whose behalf such signature is executed) with the same force and effect as if such facsimile or “.pdf” signature page were an original thereof.
SIGNATURES ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be duly executed by their respective representatives hereunto authorized as of the day and year first above written.
| By Seller: | ||
| ALSET EHOME INTERNATIONAL INC. | ||
| By: | /s/ Heng Fai Ambrose Chan | |
| Name: | Heng Fai Ambrose Chan | |
| Title: | Chief Executive Officer | |
| By Buyer: | ||
| DSS, INC. | ||
| By: | /s/ Frank D. Heuszel | |
| Name: | Frank D. Heuszel | |
| Title: | Chief Executive Officer | |
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Exhibit 99.1
DSS Acquires 25.1% of Alset International Limited
DSS adds True Partner Capital with $1.7B AUM into DSS Securities; greatly enhancing the portfolio of the finance and asset management division of DSS
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Jan. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DSS, Inc. (“DSS” or the “Company”) (NYSE American: DSS), a multinational company with nine operating business lines in diverse, high-growth industries, entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “AIL Subscription Agreement”) on January 18, 2022, with its shareholder Alset EHome International Inc. (“AEI”), which currently owns 15.24% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock, pursuant to which AEI sold to the Company 877,248,065 ordinary shares, no par value per share, of Alset International Limited for a purchase price of 59,979,582 newly issued shares of the Company’s common stock. Following the closing of this transaction, AEI will own 55.52% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock and will be the majority shareholder of the Company.
On January 18, 2022, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “True Partners Subscription Agreement”) with AEI, pursuant to which AEI sold to the Company 100% of the shares of common stock of its wholly owned subsidiary True Partner International Limited (HK) (“TP”), and all of TP’s 62,122,908 ordinary shares of True Partner Capital Holding Limited (“True Partner”), for a purchase price of 11,397,080 newly issued shares of the Company’s common stock.
The closings of these transactions are subject to approval of the NYSE and the Company’s stockholders. Transaction details will be filed in an 8-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
Frank D. Heuszel, DSS CEO, stated, “We see tremendous promise in the potential of our securities business and these investments will help to accelerate growth of this and other key segments. True Partner’s active global volatility arbitrage fund has assets under management in excess of $1.7 billion. Its investment base spans high net worth individuals, pensions, endowments, and family offices, and we look forward to leveraging their existing platform to deliver innovative, customized solutions to these customers. We have positioned DSS Securities to be a major player in the securities, finance, and fund management sector.” Heuszel added, “We are thrilled to now own more than 25% of Alset International, which brings to the table a diverse group of businesses in ehome community development, SPAC management, food & beverage, direct sales, asset management, and information technology.”
About DSS, Inc.
DSS is a multinational company operating business segments in blockchain security, direct marketing, healthcare, consumer packaging, real estate, renewable energy, securitized digital assets, securities trading and fund management, and banking, lending, and finance. Its business model is based on a distribution sharing system in which shareholders receive shares in its subsidiaries as DSS strategically unlocks value through IPO spin offs. Under new leadership since 2019, DSS has built the necessary foundation for sustainable growth through the acquisition and formation of a diversified portfolio of companies positioned to drive profitability in five high-growth sectors. These companies offer innovative, flexible, and real-world solutions that not only meet customer needs, but create sustainable value and opportunity for transformation.
For more information on DSS visit http://www.dssworld.com.
Investor Contact:
Dave Gentry, CEO
RedChip Companies Inc.
407-491-4498
Dave@redchip.com
Safe Harbor Disclosure
This press release contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to the Company’s intended use of proceeds and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected. These risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, include: risks relating to our growth strategy; our ability to obtain, perform under and maintain financing and strategic agreements and relationships; risks relating to the results of development activities; our ability to attract, integrate and retain key personnel; our need for substantial additional funds; patent and intellectual property matters; competition; as well as other risks described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the prospectus and in our other filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, our reports on Forms 8-K and 10-Q, all of which can be obtained on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations, and beliefs. We expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations or any changes in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.