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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 8-K

 

CURRENT REPORT

 

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of

the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): September 28, 2022

 

SHF Holdings, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)

 

001-40524   86-2409612

(Commission

File Number)

 

(IRS Employer

Identification No.)

 

10 East 53rd Street, Suite 3001

New York, New York 10022

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (510) 323-2526

 

 

(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
Class A Common Stock, $0.0001 par value per share   SHFS   The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
Redeemable Warrants, each whole warrant exercisable for one share of Class A Common Stock at an exercise price of $11.50 per share   SHFSW   The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC

 

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

 

Emerging growth company

 

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

 

 

 

 
 

 

INTRODUCTORY NOTE

 

As used in this Current Report on Form 8-K, unless otherwise stated or the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms the “Company,” “Registrant,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to the entity formerly named Northern Lights Acquisition Corp., after giving effect to the Business Combination (as defined below), and as renamed SHF Holdings, Inc.

 

On September 28, 2022, Northern Lights Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), consummated the previously announced Business Combination (the “Closing”) pursuant to that certain Unit Purchase Agreement, dated February 11, 2022 (as amended by the First Amendment to the Unit Purchase Agreement dated September 19, 2022, the Second Amendment to the Unit Purchase Agreement dated September 22, 2022, and the Third Amendment to the Unit Purchase Agreement dated September 28, 2022, the “Unit Purchase Agreement”), by and among the Company, 5AK, LLC, the Company’s sponsor (the “Sponsor”), SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial, a Colorado limited liability company (the “Target”), SHF Holding Co., LLC, the sole member of the Target (the “Seller”), and Partner Colorado Credit Union, the sole member of the Seller (the “Seller Parent”), whereby the Company purchased all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of the Target from the Seller.

 

As contemplated by the Unit Purchase Agreement and described in the section titled “Proposal No. 1 — Approval of the Business Combination” beginning on page 107 of the definitive proxy statement filed by the Company on June 10, 2022 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) (as supplemented to date, the “Proxy Statement”), at the Closing: (a) the Company purchased all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of the Target in exchange for an aggregate of $185,000,000, consisting of (i) 11,386,139 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock (the “Class A Common Stock”) with an aggregate value equal to $115,000,000 and (ii) $70,000,000 in cash, $56,949,800.66 of which will be paid on a deferred basis; (b) the Company amended and restated its amended and restated certificate of incorporation (the “Charter”) to, among other matters: (i) change its name to “SHF Holdings Inc.,” (ii) expand the Company’s board of directors (the “Board”) to seven individuals divided into three classes; and (iii) remove and change certain provisions in the Charter related to the Company’s status as a blank check company; (c) all outstanding shares of Class B common stock of the Company, par value $0.0001 per share (“Founder Shares”), held by the Sponsor were converted into shares of Class A Common Stock; and (d) the Company was appointed as the managing member of the Target (the transactions referred to in clauses (a) through (d), collectively, the “Business Combination”).

 

As of the open of trading on September 29, 2022, the Class A Common Stock and public warrants of the Company began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market (“Nasdaq”) as “SHFS” and “SHFSW,” respectively.

 

 
 

 

Certain terms used in this Current Report on Form 8-K have the same meaning as set forth in the Proxy Statement. This Current Report on Form 8-K contains summaries of the material terms of various agreements executed in connection with the transactions described herein. The summaries of these agreements are subject to, and are qualified in their entirety by, reference to these agreements, which are included as exhibits hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Immediately following the Business Combination, the Company’s ownership was as follows:

 

  the Seller Parent owns 11,386,139 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock, which represents approximately 60.8% of the voting power of the Company;
     
  the Sponsor and the Company’s initial officers and directors own 3,403,175 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock, which represents approximately 18.2% of the voting power of the Company; and
     
  the Company’s public stockholders own 3,926,598 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock, which represents approximately 21.0% of the voting power of the Company (up to 3,804,872 of which are held by the purchasers under that certain forward purchase agreement dated June 16, 2022 by and among the Company and such purchasers).

 

As previously reported, simultaneously with the Closing, the Company also completed a PIPE financing, issuing and selling 20,450 shares (the “PIPE Shares”) of its Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Series A Convertible Preferred Stock”), and 1,022,500 warrants (the “PIPE Warrants”) to certain private investors (the “PIPE Investors”), resulting in gross proceeds of $20,450,000 (the “PIPE Financing”).

 

Item 1.01. Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement.

 

The information contained in Item 1.01 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 29, 2022, as amended by the Company’s Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 30, 2022, is incorporated herein by reference. In addition to the material agreements described in such Form 8-K/A, the Company entered into the following additional material agreements in connection with the Closing:

 

Registration Rights Agreement with Seller and Seller Parent

 

Simultaneously with the Closing, the Company, the Seller, and the Seller Parent entered into a Registration Rights Agreement (the “Registration Rights Agreement”), pursuant to which the Seller and the Seller Parent may request that the Company register certain securities held by such entities, including: (i) all outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock held by the Seller or the Seller Parent immediately following the closing of the transactions contemplated by the Unit Purchase Agreement and (ii) all shares of Class A Common Stock issued to the Seller or the Seller Parent by way of any stock split, stock dividend or other distribution, recapitalization, stock exchange, stock reconstruction, amalgamation, contractual control arrangement or similar event. The material features of the Registration Rights Agreement are described in the Proxy Statement in the section titled “Proposal No. 1 – Approval of the Business Combination – The Purchase Agreement – Related Agreements” and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

This summary and the information incorporated herein by reference is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the Registration Rights Agreement, which is included as Exhibit 10.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Lock-Up Agreement with Seller and Seller Parent

 

Simultaneously with the Closing, the Company, the Seller, and the Seller Parent entered into a Lock-Up Agreement (the “Lock-Up Agreement”), pursuant to which, among other things, and subject to certain exceptions, the Company securities held by the Seller and the Seller Parent, as applicable, are to be locked-up for a period of six months from the date of the Closing (the “Closing Date”), and to be subject to certain restrictions on sale thereafter, in accordance with the terms set forth therein. The material features of the Lock-Up Agreement are described in the Proxy Statement in the section titled “Proposal No. 1 – Approval of the Business Combination – The Purchase Agreement – Related Agreements” and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 
 

 

This summary and the information incorporated herein by reference is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the Lock-Up Agreement, which is included as Exhibit 10.2 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Non-Competition Agreement with Seller and Seller Parent

 

Simultaneously with the Closing, the Seller and the Seller Parent entered into a Non-Competition Agreement in favor of the Company and the Target (the “Non-Competition Agreement”), pursuant to which the Seller and the Seller Parent agreed not to offer financial services to businesses in the cannabis industry for a period of five years following the Closing. The Non-Competition Agreement contains customary geographical limitations and excludes the provision of services by the Seller Parent pursuant to that certain Loan Servicing Agreement by and between the Seller Parent and the Target and that certain Second Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement by and between the Seller Parent and the Target from the restrictions thereof. Additionally, the Non-Competition Agreement also contains certain non-solicitation provisions in favor of the Company and the Target regarding employees, consultants, customers, and supplies, as well as confidentiality provisions. The material features of the Non-Competition Agreement are described in the Proxy Statement in the section titled “Proposal No. 1 – Approval of the Business Combination – The Purchase Agreement – Related Agreements” and that information is incorporated herein by reference.

 

This summary and the information incorporated herein by reference is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the Non-Competition Agreement, which is included as Exhibit 10.3 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 2.01. Completion of Acquisition or Disposition of Assets.

 

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

 

On June 28, 2022, the Business Combination was approved by the stockholders of the Company at a special meeting of stockholders (the “Special Meeting”). The Business Combination was completed on September 28, 2022. In connection with the Business Combination, holders of 7,573,402 shares of Class A Common Stock exercised their right to redeem those shares for cash at an approximate price of $10.33 per share, for an aggregate of approximately $78.2 million, which was paid to such holders on the Closing Date.

 

The consideration paid to the Seller Parent in connection with the Business Combination consisted of an aggregate of $185,000,000, consisting of (i) 11,386,139 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock with an aggregate value equal to $115,000,000 and (ii) $70,000,000 in cash, $56,949,800.66 of which will be paid on a deferred basis (the “Deferred Cash Consideration”). The Deferred Cash Consideration will be paid in one payment of $21,949,800.66 on or before December 15, 2022, and the $35,000,000 balance in six equal installments of $6,416,667, payable beginning on the first business day following April 1, 2023 and on the first business day of each of the following five fiscal quarters, for a total of $38,500,002 (which amount includes 5% interest annualized using the simple interest method and an approximate 7.7% effective interest rate). Further, the Seller Parent agreed to defer $3,143,388, representing certain excess cash of the Target due to the Seller Parent under the Unit Purchase Agreement, and the reimbursement of certain reimbursable expenses under the Unit Purchase Agreement. The material terms and conditions of the Unit Purchase Agreement are described in the section entitled “Proposal No. 1 — Approval of the Business Combination” beginning on page 107 of the Proxy Statement, which are incorporated herein by reference.

 

In addition, as disclosed above, simultaneously with the Closing, the Company also completed the PIPE Financing, issuing and selling 20,450 PIPE Shares and 1,022,500 PIPE Warrants to the PIPE Investors, resulting in gross proceeds of $20,450,000. The Company has agreed to file a registration statement registering the resale of the PIPE Shares within 10 days of the Closing and to have such registration statement effective as soon as practicable, but in any event within 45 days (or 75 days if the SEC notifies the Company that it will review the registration statement).

 

 
 

 

Following the Closing, all of the Company’s outstanding units separated into their component parts of one share of Class A Common Stock and one-half of one warrant. Immediately after the Business Combination, there were 18,715,912 shares of Class A Common Stock, 20,450 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, and warrants to purchase 7,036,588 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 1,286,588 private placement warrants) issued and outstanding. Upon the Closing, the Class A Common Stock and the Company’s public warrants began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols “SHFS” and “SHFSW,” respectively.

 

As noted above, the per share redemption price of approximately $10.33 for holders of public shares of Class A Common Stock electing redemption was paid out of the Company’s trust account, which had a balance immediately prior to the Closing of approximately $118.7 million. Following the payment of redemptions and after giving effect to the $20.45 million PIPE Financing, the Company had approximately $61.0 million of available cash for disbursement in connection with the Business Combination.

 

FORM 10 INFORMATION

 

Forward Looking Statements

 

This Current Report on Form 8-K contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about future financial and operating results, our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions with respect to future operations, products and services; and other statements identified by words such as “will likely result,” “are expected to,” “will continue,” “is anticipated,” “estimated,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “projection,” “outlook” or words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to trends in the cannabis industry, including changes in U.S and state laws, rules, regulations and guidance relating to the Target’s services, the Target’s growth prospects and the Target’s market size, the Target’s projected financial and operational performance, including relative to its competitors, new product and service offerings the Target may introduce in the future, the Business Combination, the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the Company or the Target related to the Business Combination, the ability to maintain the listing of the Company’s securities on the Nasdaq Capital Market, the price of the Company’s securities, including volatility resulting from changes in the competitive and highly regulated industry in which the Target plans to operate, variations in performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting the Target’s business and changes in the combined capital structure, the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations following the completion of the proposed Business Combination, and identify and realize additional opportunities, and other statements regarding the Target’s and the Company’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. Such forward-looking statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond our control. Actual results and the timing of events may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements.

 

In addition to factors previously disclosed in the Company’s reports filed with the SEC, the Proxy Statement, and those identified elsewhere in this communication, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results and the timing of events to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements: (i) the effect of the Business Combination on the Target’s or the Company’s business relationships, performance and business generally; (ii) risks that the Business Combination disrupts current plans and operations of the Target; (iii) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the Target or the Company related to the Business Combination; (iv) the ability to maintain the listing of the Company’s securities on Nasdaq Capital Market; (v) the price of the Company’s securities may be volatile due to a variety of factors, including changes in the competitive and regulated industries in which the Target operates, variations in performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting the Target’s business and changes in the capital structure, and the dilutive impact of the shares issued in connection with the Business Combination, the PIPE Financing, and the terms of that certain Forward Purchase Agreement dated June 16, 2022 by and among the Company and certain purchasers; (vi) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations after the completion of the Business Combination, and identify and realize additional opportunities; (vii) the risk of downturns and the possibility of rapid change in the highly competitive industry in which the Target operates, and the risk of changes in applicable law, rules, regulations and regulatory guidance that could adversely impact the Target’s operations; (viii) the risk that the Target and its current and future collaborators are unable to successfully develop and commercialize the Target’s products or services, or experience significant delays in doing so; (ix) the risk that the Target may not achieve or sustain profitability; (x) the risk that the Target or the Company will need to raise additional capital to execute its respective business plan, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; and (xi) the risk that the Target experiences difficulties in managing its growth and expanding operations.

 

 
 

 

Actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially, and potentially adversely, from any projections and forward-looking statements and the assumptions on which those forward-looking statements are based. There can be no assurance that the data contained herein is reflective of future performance to any degree. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a predictor of future performance as projected financial information and other information are based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to various significant risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. All information set forth herein speaks only as of the date hereof in the case of information about the Company and the Target or the date of such information in the case of information from persons other than the Company or the Target, and we disclaim any intention or obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this communication. Forecasts and estimates regarding the Target’s industry and end markets are based on sources we believe to be reliable, however there can be no assurance these forecasts and estimates will prove accurate in whole or in part. Annualized, pro forma, projected, and estimated numbers are used for illustrative purpose only, are not forecasts and may not reflect actual results.

 

All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning the Business Combination or other matters addressed in this Current Report on Form 8-K and attributable to the Company or any person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this Current Report on Form 8-K. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this Current Report on Form 8-K or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

BUSINESS

 

The business and properties of the Company and the Target prior to the Business Combination are described in the “Information About the Company” and “Business of Safe Harbor Financial” sections of the Proxy Statement beginning on pages 152 and 162 of the Proxy Statement, respectively. The “Business of Safe Harbor Financial” section of the Proxy Statement was supplemented by the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 19, 2022, and a revised “Business of Safe Harbor Financial” section was attached as Exhibit 99.4 to such report. The foregoing sections, as supplemented, are incorporated herein by reference.

 

RISK FACTORS

 

The risks associated with the Company’s and the Target’s businesses are described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 64 of the Proxy Statement. The subsections of the “Risk Factors” section of the Proxy Statement titled “Risks Related to SHF’s Business and the Post-Combination Company,” “Additional Risks Related to the Cannabis Industry,” and “Risks Related to SHF’s Organization and Structure” were supplemented by the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 19, 2022, and a revised “Risk Factors” section was attached as Exhibit 99.2 to such report. The foregoing sections, as supplemented, are incorporated herein by reference.

 

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Reference is made to the disclosure contained in the Proxy Statement in the sections titled “The Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “SHF’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” The “SHF’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” section of the Proxy Statement was supplemented by the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 19, 2022, and a revised “SHF’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” section was attached as Exhibit 99.6 to such report. The foregoing sections, as supplemented, are incorporated herein by reference. Reference is further made to Exhibits 99.1, 99.2, and 99.3 under Item 9.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K, which are incorporated herein by reference.

 

 
 

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The disclosures contained in the “The Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “SHF’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of the Proxy Statement, as supplemented by the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 19, 2022, including the revised “SHF’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” section attached as Exhibit 99.6 to such report, are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the period ended June 30, 2022 is included as Exhibit 99.3 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

PROPERTIES

 

The facilities of the Target are described in the “Business of Safe Harbor Financial – Facilities” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 176 of the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

 

The following table sets forth information regarding the beneficial ownership of the Company’s Class A Common Stock immediately following the consummation of the Business Combination on September 28, 2022 by:

 

  each person who is known by us to be the beneficial owner of more than five percent of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares,
     
  each of our Named Executive Officers and directors; and
     
  all of our executive officers and directors as a group.

 

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with SEC rules and includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Except as indicated by the footnotes below, we believe, based on the information furnished to us, that the persons and entities named in the table below will have sole voting and investment power with respect to all stock that they beneficially own, subject to applicable community property laws.

 

Subject to the paragraph above, the percentage ownership of issued shares is based on 18,715,912 shares of Class A Common Stock issued and outstanding as of September 28, 2022.

 

The beneficial ownership information below excludes the shares underlying the Company’s warrants, the PIPE Shares, and the shares expected to be issued or reserved under the Company’s 2022 Stock Incentive Plan (as defined below).

 

Unless otherwise indicated, we believe that all persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares beneficially owned by them. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each of the following entities or individuals is 10 East 53rd Street, Suite 3001, New York, New York 10022.

 

 
 

 

Name and Address of Beneficial Owner 

Shares of

Class A

Common Stock

  

% of Total

Voting Power(1)

 
Sundie Seefried   183,333(2)   1.0%
Chris Fameree   10,000    *% 
Donald Emmi   -    - 
Tyler Beuerlein   -    - 
John Darwin   3,627,263(3)   19.1%
Joshua Mann   3,627,263(3)   19.1%
Jonathan Summers   10,000    *% 
Karl Racine   -    - 
Jonathon F. Niehaus   -    - 
Richard Carleton   -    - 
Jennifer Meyers   -    - 
           
(All Executive Officers and Directors as a Group (11 persons)):          
           
Greater than Five Percent Holders:          
Partner Colorado Credit Union   11,386,139    60.8%
5AK, LLC   3,627,263    19.1%
Midtown East Management NL LLC   1,599,496(4)   8.5%
Verdun Investments LLC   1,180,376(5)   6.3%
Vellar Opportunities Fund Master, Ltd.   1,025,000(6)   5.5%

 

* Less than 1%.

 

(1) The percentage of beneficial ownership of the Company is calculated based on 18,715,912 shares of Class A Common Stock outstanding as of September 28, 2022. Where applicable, the percentage of beneficial ownership for each individual or entity post-Business Combination also reflects Class A Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the Sponsor’s 264,088 private warrants held by the Sponsor, which have an exercise price of $11.50 per share, and upon exercise of stock awards that will be exercisable within 60 days after the consummation of the Business Combination.
(2) Represents incentive stock options to purchase 183,333 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock, which options have no expiration date and have an exercise price per share equal to the fair market value of the Company’s Class A Common Stock as of the grant date.
(3) 5AK, LLC is the record holder of the securities reported herein. John Darwin and Joshua Mann, the Company’s directors, are each a control person of the member and manager of the Sponsor, Luminous Capital USA Inc. By virtue of this relationship, Messrs. Darwin and Mann may be deemed to share beneficial ownership of the securities held of record by the Sponsor. Messrs. Darwin and Mann each disclaims any such beneficial ownership except to the extent of his respective pecuniary interest.
(4) According to Schedule 13G filed on July 1, 2022. The business address of Midtown East Management NL LLC is One Rockefeller Plaza, 32nd Floor, New York, NY 10020.
(5) According to Schedule 13G filed on July 7, 2022. The business address of Verdun Investments LLC is 55 Post Rd West, 2nd Floor, Westport, CT 06880.
(6) According to Schedule 13G filed on August 11, 2022. The business address of Vellar Opportunities Fund Master, Ltd. is Solaris Avenue, Camana Bay, PO Box 1348 Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands.

 

 
 

 

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, PROMOTERS AND CONTROL PERSONS

 

Information with respect to the Company’s directors and executive officers immediately after the Closing is set forth in the “Management After the Business Combination” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 191 of the Proxy Statement, as supplemented by the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 19, 2022, and Item 5.02 of this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Each of Jonathon F. Niehaus, Karl Racine, Jennifer Meyers, Richard Carleton, Jonathan Summers, John Darwin, and Joshua Mann were elected, or, in the case of Messrs. Summers, Darwin, and Mann, re-elected, to serve as directors of the Company following the Business Combination. The size of the Board is seven members and shall consist of three classes of directors, with the first class consisting of Messrs. Summers and Racine with an initial term that expires at the annual meeting of stockholders held in 2025; the second class consisting of Messrs. Niehaus and Carleton and Ms. Meyers with an initial term that expires at the annual meeting of stockholders held in 2023; and the third class consisting of Messrs. Darwin and Mann with an initial term that expires at the annual meeting of stockholders held in 2024. Biographical information for these individuals is set forth in the “The Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Directors and Officers” and “Management After the Business Combination” sections of the Proxy Statement beginning on pages 161 and 191 of the Proxy Statement, respectively, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

The Board appointed Messrs. Summers, Niehaus, and Carleton to serve on the Audit Committee, with Mr. Summers serving as its chairman. The Board appointed Messrs. Carleton and Niehaus and Ms. Meyers to serve on the Compensation Committee, with Mr. Carleton serving as its chairman. The Board appointed Messrs. Racine, Summers, Niehaus, and Carleton and Ms. Meyers to serve on the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, with Mr. Racine serving as its chairman. Information with respect to the Company’s Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is set forth in the section entitled “Management After the Business Combination — Committees of the Board of Directors” beginning on page 193 of the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Nasdaq listing standards generally define an “independent director” as a person, other than an executive officer of a company or any other individual having a relationship which, in the opinion of the issuer’s board of directors, would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director. The Company’s Board has determined that each of the directors other than Messrs. Darwin and Mann qualifies as an independent director, as defined under the listing rules of Nasdaq, and that the Board consists of a majority of “independent directors,” as defined under the rules of the SEC and Nasdaq listing rules relating to director independence requirements.

 

In connection with the completion of the Business Combination, Sundie Seefried was appointed to serve as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Chris Fameree was appointed to serve as the Chief Financial Officer, Donald Emmi was appointed to serve as Chief Legal Officer, and Tyler Beuerlein was appointed to serve as Chief Strategic Business Development Officer. Biographical information for these individuals is set forth in the “The Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Directors and Officers” and “Management After the Business Combination” sections of the Proxy Statement beginning on pages 161 and 191 of the Proxy Statement, respectively, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

The disclosures contained in the “Executive Compensation” and the “Management After the Business Combination – Post-Combination Company Executive Compensation” sections of the Proxy Statement beginning on pages 188 and 194, respectively, of the Proxy Statement are incorporated herein by reference.

 

At the Special Meeting, the stockholders of the Company adopted and approved the SHF Holdings, Inc. 2022 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2022 Stock Incentive Plan”), which became effective upon the Closing. The Company reserved for issuance 4,037,147 shares of Class A Common Stock pursuant to the 2022 Stock Incentive Plan. The material features of the 2022 Stock Incentive Plan are described in the “Proposal No. 6 – Approval of the Incentive Plan, Including the Authorization of the Initial Share Reserves Under the Incentive Plan” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 145 of the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

This summary and the information incorporated herein by reference is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the 2022 Stock Incentive Plan, which is included as Exhibit 10.4 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

 

The certain relationships and related party transactions of the Company and the Target are described in the “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions – The Company’s Related Party Transactions” and “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions – SHF Related Party Transactions” sections of the Proxy Statement beginning on pages 207 and 208 of the Proxy Statement, which are incorporated herein by reference.

 

 
 

 

Additionally, as described in the Proxy Statement, the Target and the Seller Parent were party to that certain loan servicing agreement dated February 11, 2022 (the “Original Loan Servicing Agreement”), which sets forth the application, underwriting, and approval process for loans from the Seller Parent to borrowers that are cannabis-related businesses and the loan servicing and monitoring responsibilities provided by the Target and the Seller Parent. On September 21, 2022, the Target and the Seller Parent entered into an amended and restated loan servicing agreement (the “Amended and Restated Loan Servicing Agreement”) to clarify certain provisions of the Original Loan Servicing Agreement. In particular, the Amended and Restated Loan Servicing Agreement was updated to include the procedures to be followed upon the default of a loan to ensure that neither the Target nor Seller Parent will take title to or possession of any cannabis-related assets, including real property, that may be collateral for a loan funded by the Seller Parent pursuant to the Amended and Restated Loan Servicing Agreement. The parties agreed to certain other non-substantive updates to the Amended and Restated Loan Servicing Agreement. The Seller Parent’s servicing fee at the annual rate of 0.25% of the then-outstanding principal balance of each loan funded by the Seller Parent remains unchanged. In addition, the Target’s obligations in the Amended and Restated Loan Servicing Agreement to indemnify the Seller Parent from all default-related loan losses (as defined in the Amended and Restated Loan Servicing Agreement) remain unchanged.

 

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

 

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

Reference is made to the disclosure regarding legal proceedings in the “Information About the Company – Legal Proceedings” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 156 of the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

MARKET PRICE OF AND DIVIDENDS ON THE REGISTRANT’S

COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

 

The Company’s shares of Class A Common Stock began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “SHFS” and its public warrants began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “SHFSW” on September 29, 2022. The Company has not paid any cash dividends on its shares of Class A Common Stock to date. It is the present intention of the Board to retain future earnings for the development, operation and expansion of its business, and the Board does not anticipate declaring or paying any cash dividends for the foreseeable future. The payment of dividends is within the discretion of the Board and will be contingent upon the Company’s future revenues and earnings, as well as its capital requirements and general financial condition.

 

As of the Closing, there were seven holders of record of our shares of Class A Common Stock, not including beneficial holders whose securities are held in street name.

 

RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES

 

Reference is made to the disclosure set forth under Item 3.02 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 29, 2022 concerning the issuance of the PIPE Shares in connection with the PIPE Financing, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

DESCRIPTION OF REGISTRANT’S SECURITIES TO BE REGISTERED

 

Descriptions of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and warrants are included in the “Description of Securities” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 196 of the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Series A Convertible Preferred Stock

 

As previously disclosed, the Company filed a Certificate of Designation of Preferences, Rights and Limitations of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Certificate of Designation”) with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware in connection with the PIPE Financing. The material terms of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock are as follows:

 

Dividends: Pursuant to the Certificate of Designation, except for stock dividends or distributions for which adjustments are to be made pursuant to the Certificate of Designation, holders of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive, and the Company shall pay, dividends on shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock equal (on an as-if-converted-to-Class-A-Common-Stock basis) to and in the same form as dividends actually paid on shares of the Class A Common Stock when, as and if such dividends are paid on shares of the Class A Common Stock. No other dividends shall be paid on shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock.

 

 
 

 

Voting Rights: Pursuant to the Certificate of Designation, except as otherwise provided therein or as otherwise required by law, the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall have no voting rights. However, as long as any shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock are outstanding, the Company shall not, without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the then outstanding shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, (a) alter or change adversely the powers, preferences or rights given to the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock or alter or amend the Certificate of Designation, (b) amend the Company’s second amended and restated certificate of incorporation or other charter documents in any manner that adversely affects any rights of the holders of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, (c) increase the number of authorized shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, or (d) enter into any agreement with respect to any of the foregoing.

 

Liquidation: The Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall rank (i) senior to all of the Class A Common Stock; (ii) senior to any class or series of capital stock of the Company specifically ranking by its terms junior to any Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (“Junior Securities”); (iii) on parity with any class or series of capital stock of the Company created specifically ranking by its terms on parity with the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (“Parity Securities”); and (iv) junior to any class or series of capital stock of the Company hereafter created specifically ranking by its terms senior to any Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (“Senior Securities”), in each case, as to dividends or distributions of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, whether voluntarily or involuntarily. Subject to any superior liquidation rights of the holders of any Senior Securities of the Company and the rights of the Company’s existing and future creditors, upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of the Company, whether voluntary or involuntary (a “Liquidation”), each holder of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock shall be entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Company legally available for distribution to stockholders, prior and in preference to any distribution of any of the assets or surplus funds of the company to the holders of the Class A Common Stock and Junior Securities and pari passu with any distribution to the holders of Parity Securities, an amount equal to the stated value for each share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock held by such holder and an amount equal to any dividends declared but unpaid thereon, and thereafter the holders shall be entitled to receive out of the assets, whether capital or surplus, of the Company the same amount that a holder of Class A Common Stock would receive if the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock were fully converted (disregarding for such purposes any conversion limitations hereunder) to the Class A Common Stock which amounts shall be paid pari passu with all holders of Class A Common Stock.

 

Conversion: The Series A Convertible Preferred Stock has a stated value of $1,000 per share and will convert into shares of Class A Common Stock (the “Conversion Shares”) at a price of $10.00 per share of Class A Common Stock (the “Conversion Price”). The Conversion Price is subject to downward adjustment on each of the dates that are 10 days, 55 days, 100 days, 145 days and 190 days after the effectiveness of a registration statement registering the shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the PIPE Shares to the lower of the Conversion Price and the greater of (i) 80% of the volume weighted average price of the Class A Common Stock for the prior five trading days and (ii) $2.00 (the “Floor Price”); provided that, so long as a PIPE Investor continues to hold any PIPE Shares, such PIPE Investor will be entitled to receive the aggregate shares of Class A Common Stock that would be issuable based upon its initial purchase of PIPE Shares at the adjusted Conversion Price. Additionally, the Floor Price will be reduced to $1.25 if and only if the Company’s stockholders provide the approval contemplated by Nasdaq Listing Standard Rule 5635(d) with respect to the issuance of the Conversion Shares based on a reduction of the Floor Price to $1.25 (the “Requisite Stockholder Approval”); provided, however, that no holder of Conversion Shares issued prior to obtaining the Requisite Stockholder Approval will be allowed to vote such Conversion Shares for or against such proposal. Further, pursuant to the Certificate of Designation, as soon as practicable, but in any event not later than one hundred and twenty days (120) days after September 28, 2022, the Company will call a special meeting of its stockholders to obtain the Requisite Stockholder Approval for the reduction of the Floor Price to $1.25 and (ii) the Board will recommend approval of such proposal; if the Requisite Stockholder Approval is not obtained at such a meeting, the Company will call additional meetings, and the Board will make such recommendation, at least once every six (6) months thereafter until the Requisite Stockholder Approval is obtained. If the Requisite Stockholder Approval is received and, on the date that the Requisite Stockholder Approval is received, if a prior scheduled downward adjustment of the Conversion Price would have resulted in a Conversion Price lower than the prior Floor Price (the “Theoretical Adjustment Price”), then such Conversion Price shall be downwardly adjusted to the Theoretical Adjustment Price effective, automatically and without further action of the Company or any PIPE Investor, on the trading day immediately following the trading day upon which the Requisite Stockholder Approval is obtained regardless of whether a scheduled downward adjustment of the Conversion Price would have otherwise occurred on such trading day; provided, however, in no event shall the Theoretical Adjustment Price be less than $1.25.

 

 
 

 

In addition, until the Price Protection Expiration Date (as such term is defined in the Certificate of Designation), the Conversion Price is subject to adjustment for certain issuances of Class A Common Stock at a price per share less than the Conversion Price such that the Conversion Price will be adjusted to equal the price at which the new shares are issued. The Conversion Price is also subject to other customary adjustments for stock dividends, stock splits and similar corporate actions.

 

PIPE Warrants

 

The PIPE Warrants were issued in the form attached as Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 29, 2022, as amended by the Company’s Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 30, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference. The PIPE Warrants have an exercise price of $11.50 per share of Class A Common Stock to be paid in cash (except if the shares underlying the warrants are not covered by an effective registration statement after the six-month anniversary of the closing date, in which case cashless exercise is permitted), subject to adjustment to a price equal to the greater of (i) 125% of the Conversion Price if at any time there is an adjustment to the Conversion Price and the exercise price after such adjustment is greater than 125% of the Conversion Price as adjusted and (ii) $5.00. The PIPE Warrants are also subject to adjustment for other customary adjustments for stock dividends, stock splits and similar corporate actions. The PIPE Warrants are exercisable for a period of five years following the Closing, or September 28, 2027. After exercise of a PIPE Warrant, the Company may be required to pay certain penalties if it fails to deliver the Class A Common Stock within a specified period of time.

 

INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

 

Information about the indemnification of the Company’s directors and executive officers is set forth in the “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions – Description of our Board and Board Committees – Limitation on Liability and Indemnification of Officers and Directors” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 213, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

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

 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND EXHIBITS

 

The information set forth in Exhibits 99.1, 99.2, and 99.3 under Item 9.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 3.02. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities.

 

The information contained in Item 3.02 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 29, 2022, as amended by the Company’s Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 30, 2022, regarding the PIPE Financing is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 
 

 

Item 3.03. Material Modification to Rights of Security Holders.

 

As previously disclosed, the stockholders of the Company approved the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company at the Special Meeting, and, on September 28, 2022, the Company filed the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Reference is made to the disclosure described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus in the section titled “Shareholder Proposal 1: the Domestication Proposal – Comparison of Shareholder Rights under Applicable Corporate Law Before and After the Domestication and Business Combination” and “ – Comparison of Shareholder Rights under the Applicable Organizational Documents Before and After the Domestication,” which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

The full text of the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation is included as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 29, 2022, as amended by the Company’s Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 30, 2022, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 5.01. Changes in Control of Registrant.

 

Reference is made to the disclosure in the “Proposal No. 1 — Approval of the Business Combination” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 107 of the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference. Further reference is made to the “Introductory Note” and the information contained in Item 2.01 to this Current Report on Form 8-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Immediately after giving effect to the Business Combination, there were 18,715,912 shares of Class A Common Stock outstanding. As of such time, Seller Parent and our executive officers and directors and affiliates held or controlled 79% of our outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock.

 

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

 

The information set forth in the “Management After the Business Combination” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 191 of the Proxy Statement, as supplemented by the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 19, 2022, is incorporated by herein by reference. Further, as disclosed in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 19, 2022, Paul Penney’s role as a consultant to the Target terminated effective as of September 30, 2022. The Target currently anticipates filling his role with other internal candidates and is undertaking a search for a replacement.

 

At the Special Meeting, the stockholders of the Company adopted and approved the 2022 Stock Incentive Plan, which became effective upon the Closing. The Company reserved for issuance 4,037,147 shares of Class A Common Stock pursuant to the 2022 Stock Incentive Plan. The material features of the 2022 Stock Incentive Plan are described in the “Proposal No. 6 – Approval of the Incentive Plan, Including the Authorization of the Initial Share Reserves Under the Incentive Plan” section of the Proxy Statement beginning on page 145 of the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.

 

The information contained in Item 1.01 and Item 2.01 to this Current Report on Form 8-K is also incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 5.03. Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws.

 

The information contained in Item 5.03 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 29, 2022, as amended by the Company’s Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 30, 2022, regarding the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation is incorporated herein by reference.

 

The full text of the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation is included as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 29, 2022, as amended by the Company’s Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 30, 2022, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 
 

 

Item 5.06. Change in Shell Company Status.

 

The information contained in Item 5.06 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 29, 2022, as amended by the Company’s Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 30, 2022, is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits.

 

(a) Financial Statements of Business Acquired.

 

In accordance with Rule 12b-23 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Rule 12b-23”), the Target’s audited combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the related combined statements of income and comprehensive income, parent-entity net investment, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes to the combined financial statements are incorporated by reference to such financial statements appearing on pages F-45 to F-65 of the Proxy Statement.

 

The unaudited financial statements of the Target as of June 30, 2022 and for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, together with the notes thereto, are set forth in Exhibit 99.1 and are incorporated herein by reference.

 

(b) Pro Forma Financial Information.

 

The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information of the Target as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and for the year ended December 31, 2021 is set forth in Exhibit 99.2 hereto and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information of the Company as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and for the period from February 26, 2021 (inception) through December 31, 2021 is set forth in Exhibit 99.2 hereto and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

(d) Exhibits

 

Exhibit Number  

Description of Exhibit

2.1†

  Unit Purchase Agreement dated February 11, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 14, 2022)
2.2   First Amendment to Unit Purchase Agreement dated September 19, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 19, 2022)
2.3   Second Amendment to Unit Purchase Agreement dated September 22, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 23, 2022)
2.4   Third Amendment to Unit Purchase Agreement dated September 28, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on September 29, 2022)
3.1   Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on September 29, 2022).
3.2   Certificate of Designation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on September 29, 2022).
3.3   Bylaws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on June 2, 2021).
4.1   Warrant Agreement, dated June 23, 2021, between the Company and Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 25, 2021).
10.1*   Registration Rights Agreement dated September 28, 2022
10.2*†   Lock-Up Agreement dated September 28, 2022
10.3*   Non-Competition Agreement dated September 28, 2022
10.4*   SHF Holdings, Inc. 2022 Stock Incentive Plan
10.5   Letter Agreement, dated June 23, 2021, among the Company, its officers and directors and 5AK, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 25, 2021).
10.6   Registration Rights Agreement, dated June 23, 2021, by and among the Company and certain securityholders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 25, 2021).

 

 
 

 

10.7   Placement Unit Purchase Agreement, dated June 23, 2021, by and between the Company and the Sponsor (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 25, 2021).
10.8   Form of Indemnity Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on June 2, 2021).
10.9†   Form of Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on September 29, 2022).
10.10†   Form of Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on September 29, 2022).
10.11   Form of Voting Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on September 29, 2022).
10.12   Forward Purchase Agreement dated June 16, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on June 17, 2022).
21.1*   Subsidiaries of the Company
99.1*   Unaudited financial statements of SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial as of and for the periods ending June 30, 2022.
99.2*   Unaudited pro forma financial statements.
99.3*   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial for the periods ending June 30, 2022.

 

* Filed herewith.

 

† Certain of the exhibits and schedules to this exhibit have been omitted in accordance with Regulation S-K Item 601(a)(5). The Company agrees to furnish supplementally a copy of all omitted exhibits and schedules to the SEC upon its request.

 

 
 

 

SIGNATURES

 

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

 

  SHF HOLDINGS, INC.
     
Date: October 4, 2022 By: /s/ Chris Fameree
    Chris Fameree
    Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.1

 

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

 

THIS REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is entered into as of September 28, 2022, by and among SHF Holdings, Inc. (f/k/a Northern Lights Acquisition Corp.), a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), SHF Holding Co., LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“SHF Holding”), and Partner Colorado Credit Union, a Colorado corporation (“PCCU”).

 

WHEREAS, on February 11, 2022, (i) the Company, (ii) 5AK, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, in the capacity as the Purchaser Representative (as defined in the Unit Purchase Agreement), (iii) PCCU, (iv) SHF Holding, and (v) SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial, a Colorado limited liability company (the “Target”), entered into that certain Unit Purchase Agreement (as amended from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof, the “Unit Purchase Agreement”), pursuant to which the parties thereto intend to effect the purchase by the Company of 100% of the issued and outstanding Company Membership Interests (as defined in the Unit Purchase Agreement) from SHF Holding, in exchange for the Purchase Consideration (as defined in the Unit Purchase Agreement), all upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Unit Purchase Agreement and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law (as amended) and the Colorado Corporations and Association Act (as amended); and

 

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Unit Purchase Agreement, SHF Holding and PCCU will be granted certain registration rights with respect to the shares of Purchaser Common Stock received by them as part of the Purchase Consideration received by them pursuant to the Unit Purchase Agreement, on the terms and subject to the conditions herein.

 

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

 

1. DEFINITIONS.

 

1.1 Definitions. Terms used but not defined herein shall have their respective meanings set forth in the Unit Purchase Agreement. The following capitalized terms used herein have the following meanings:

 

Adverse Disclosure” means public disclosure of material non-public information that, in the good faith judgment of the Company Board: (i) would be required to be made in any Registration Statement filed with the Commission by the Company so that such Registration Statement, from and after its effective date, does not contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; (ii) would not be required to be made at such time but for the filing, effectiveness or continued use of such Registration Statement; and (iii) the Company has a bona fide business purpose for not disclosing publicly.

 

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

 

Block Trade” means any non-marketed underwritten offering taking the form of a block trade to a financial institution, “qualified institutional buyer” or “institutional accredited investor,” bought deal, over-night deal or similar transaction that does not include the filing of a Prospectus or Issuer Free Writing Prospectus with the Commission, “road show” presentations to potential investors requiring substantial marketing effort from management, the issuance of a “comfort letter” by the Company’s auditors or the issuance of legal opinions by the Company’s legal counsel (other than those delivered to the Company’s transfer agent with respect to the removal of any legend).

 

 

 

 

Business Day” means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close.

 

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

 

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

 

Company” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Company Board” means the board of directors of the Company.

 

Demand Registration” is defined in Section 2.2.1.

 

Demanding Holder” is defined in Section 2.2.1.

 

Effectiveness Period” is defined in Section 3.1.3.

 

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

 

Filing Date” is defined in Section 2.1.1.

 

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

 

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

 

Holder Indemnified Party” is defined in Section 4.1.

 

Issuer Free Writing Prospectus” means an issuer free writing prospectus, as defined in Rule 433 under the Securities Act, relating to an offer of the Registrable Securities.

 

Indemnified Party” is defined in Section 4.3.

 

Indemnifying Party” is defined in Section 4.3.

 

Lock-Up Period” is defined in that certain Lock-Up Agreement dated as of the date hereof among the Company, PCCU, and SHF Holding (the “Lock-Up Agreement”).

 

Maximum Number of Shares” is defined in Section 2.2.4.

 

New Registration Statement” is defined in Section 2.1.4.

 

Notices” is defined in Section 6.4.

 

Piggy-Back Registration” is defined in Section 2.3.1.

 

Pro Rata” is defined in Section 2.2.4.

 

2

 

 

Prospectus” means (i) the prospectus included in any Registration Statement, all amendments and supplements to such prospectus, including post-effective amendments and supplements, and all other material incorporated by reference in such prospectus, and (ii) any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus.

 

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

 

Registrable Securities” means all outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock held by SHF Holding or PCCU immediately following the Closing and all shares of Class A Common Stock issued therefrom by way of any stock split, stock dividend or other distribution, recapitalization, stock exchange, stock reconstruction, amalgamation, contractual control arrangement or similar event. As to any Registrable Securities, such securities shall cease to be Registrable Securities when: (a) a Registration Statement with respect to the sale of such securities shall have become effective under the Securities Act and such securities shall have been sold, transferred, disposed of or exchanged in accordance with such Registration Statement; (b) such securities shall have been otherwise transferred, new certificates or book-entry positions for them not bearing a legend restricting further transfer shall have been delivered by the Company and subsequent public distribution of them shall not require registration under the Securities Act; (c) such securities may be sold by the holders thereof without restriction under Rule 144 (or any similar provision) under the Securities Act without limitation on the amount of securities sold or the manner of sale; or (d) such securities shall have ceased to be outstanding.

 

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

 

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

 

Resale Shelf Registration Statement” is defined in Section 2.1.1.

 

Restricted Securities” is defined in the Lock-Up Agreement.

 

Rule 144” means Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act (or any successor rule promulgated by the Commission).

 

SEC Guidance” means any publicly available written or oral guidance, comments, requirements, or requests of the Commission staff.

 

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

 

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

 

Subsequent Shelf Registration” is defined in Section 2.1.3.

 

Suspension Event” is defined in Section 3.1.1.

 

3

 

 

Transfer” means to (i) sell, offer to sell, contract or agree to sell, hypothecate, pledge, grant any option to purchase, make any short sale or otherwise dispose of or agree to dispose of, directly or indirectly, or establish or increase a put equivalent position or liquidate or decrease a call equivalent position within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder, with respect to any Restricted Securities or (ii) enter into any swap or hedging or other arrangement which is designed to or which reasonably could be expected to lead to or result in a sale or disposition of the shares of Class A Common Stock, or that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of any Class A Common Stock, whether any such transaction described in clauses (i) or (ii) above is to be settled by delivery of such securities, in cash or otherwise.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Unit Purchase Agreement” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

2. REGISTRATION RIGHTS.

 

2.1 Resale Shelf Registration Rights.

 

2.1.1 Registration Statement Covering Resale of Registrable Securities. The Company shall prepare and file or cause to be prepared and filed with the Commission as soon as practicable after the Closing Date, but in any event no later than sixty (60) calendar days prior to the expiration of the Lock-Up Period (the “Filing Date”), a Registration Statement for an offering to be made on a continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 of the Securities Act registering the resale from time to time by the holders of the Registrable Securities of all of the Registrable Securities then held by such holders (the “Resale Shelf Registration Statement”). The Resale Shelf Registration Statement shall be on Form S-3 or another appropriate form permitting Registration of such Registrable Securities for resale by such holders, or, if the Company is ineligible to use Form S-3, on Form S-1. The Company shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Resale Shelf Registration Statement to be declared effective as soon as possible after filing, and once effective, to keep the Resale Shelf Registration Statement continuously effective under the Securities Act at all times until the expiration of the Effectiveness Period.

 

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

 

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2.1.3 Amendments and Supplements; Subsequent Shelf Registration. Subject to the provisions of Section 2.1.1 above, the Company shall promptly prepare and file with the Commission from time to time such amendments and supplements to the Resale Shelf Registration Statement and Prospectus used in connection therewith as may be necessary to keep the Resale Shelf Registration Statement effective and to comply with the provisions of the Securities Act with respect to the disposition of all the Registrable Securities during the Effectiveness Period, or to file an additional Registration Statement as a shelf registration (a “Subsequent Shelf Registration”) registering the resale of all outstanding Registrable Securities from time to time, and pursuant to any method or combination of methods legally available to, and reasonably requested by, any holder. If a Subsequent Shelf Registration is filed, the Company shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to (i) cause such Subsequent Shelf Registration to become effective under the Securities Act as promptly as is reasonably practicable after the filing thereof and (ii) keep such Subsequent Shelf Registration continuously effective and to comply with the provisions of the Securities Act with respect to the disposition of all the Registrable Securities at all times during the Effectiveness Period. For purposes of interpretation, a Subsequent Shelf Registration shall be deemed a Resale Shelf Registration Statement hereunder.

 

2.1.4 Notwithstanding the registration obligations set forth in this Section 2.1, in the event the Commission informs the Company that all of the Registrable Securities cannot, as a result of the application of Rule 415, be registered for resale as a secondary offering on a single registration statement, the Company agrees to promptly (i) inform each of the holders thereof and use its commercially reasonable efforts to file amendments to the Resale Shelf Registration Statement as required by the Commission and/or (ii) withdraw the Resale Shelf Registration Statement and file a new registration statement (a “New Registration Statement”), in either case covering the maximum number of Registrable Securities permitted to be registered by the Commission, on Form S-3 or such other form available to register for resale the Registrable Securities as a secondary offering. In the event the Company amends the Resale Shelf Registration Statement or files a New Registration Statement, as the case may be, under clauses (i) or (ii) above, the Company will use its commercially reasonable efforts to file with the Commission, as promptly as allowed by Commission or SEC Guidance provided to the Company or to registrants of securities in general, one or more registration statements on Form S-3 or such other form available to register for resale those Registrable Securities that were not registered for resale on the Resale Shelf Registration Statement, as amended, or the New Registration Statement.

 

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

 

(a) If the Company shall receive a request from the holders of Registrable Securities (the requesting holder(s) shall be referred to herein as the “Requesting Holder(s)”) that the Company effect the Underwritten Takedown of all or any portion of the Requesting Holder’s Registrable Securities, and specifying the intended method of disposition thereof, then, subject to Section 3.5, the Company shall, if applicable, promptly give notice of such requested Underwritten Takedown at least three (3) Business Days prior to the anticipated filing date of the Prospectus relating to such Underwritten Takedown to the other holders of Registrable Securities and in any event use its commercially reasonable efforts to effect, as expeditiously as possible, the offering in such Underwritten Takedown of:

 

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

 

(ii) as applicable and subject to the restrictions set forth in Section 2.2.4, all other Registrable Securities that any holders of Registrable Securities (all such holders, together with the Requesting Holder, the “Selling Holders”) have requested the Company to offer by request received by the Company within two (2) Business Days after such holders receive the Company’s notice of the Underwritten Takedown, all to the extent necessary to permit the disposition (in accordance with the intended methods thereof as aforesaid) of the Registrable Securities so to be offered.

 

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

 

(c) The Company shall only be required to effectuate one Underwritten Takedown within any six-month period.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

2.1.8 Withdrawal. A Selling Holder shall have the right to withdraw all or any portion of its Registrable Securities included in an Underwritten Takedown pursuant to this Section 2.1 for any reason or no reason whatsoever upon written notice to the Company and the Underwriter or Underwriters of its intention to withdraw from such Underwritten Takedown prior to the public announcement of such Underwritten Takedown. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the Company shall be responsible for the registration expenses incurred in connection with an Underwritten Takedown prior to a withdrawal under this Section 2.1.8. If all Registrable Securities are withdrawn from an Underwritten Takedown pursuant to this Section 2.1.8, such withdrawn Underwritten Takedown shall not be counted as an Underwritten Takedown effected pursuant to Section 2.1.5(c).

 

2.1.9 Block Trade. If the Company shall receive during the term hereof a request from the holders of Registrable Securities with an estimated market value of at least $5.0 million that the Company effect the sale of all or any portion of the Registrable Securities in a Block Trade, then the Company shall, as expeditiously as possible, effectuate the offering in such Block Trade of the Registrable Securities for which such requesting holder has requested such offering under Section 2.1.9. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, a Block Trade shall not be counted as an Underwritten Takedown effected pursuant to Section 2.1.5(c).

 

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2.2 Demand Registration.

 

2.2.1 Request for Registration. Subject to Section 3.5, from time to time after the expiration of the Lock-Up Period, holders of Registrable Securities may make a written demand for Registration under the Securities Act of all or any portion of their Registrable Securities on Form S-1 or any similar long-form Registration or, if then available, on Form S-3. Each registration requested pursuant to this Section 2.2.1 is referred to herein as a “Demand Registration.” Any demand for a Demand Registration shall specify the number of shares of Registrable Securities proposed to be sold and the intended method(s) of distribution thereof. Only to the extent applicable, the Company will notify all holders of Registrable Securities of the demand, and each such holder of Registrable Securities who wishes to include all or a portion of such holder’s Registrable Securities in the Demand Registration (each such holder including shares of Registrable Securities in such registration, a “Demanding Holder”) shall so notify the Company within fifteen (15) calendar days after the receipt by the holder of the notice from the Company. Upon any such request, the Demanding Holders shall be entitled to have their Registrable Securities included in the Demand Registration, subject to Section 2.2.4 and the provisos set forth in Section 3.1.1. The Company shall not be obligated to effect: (a) more than one (1) Demand Registration during any six-month period; or (b) any Demand Registration at any time if there is an effective Resale Shelf Registration Statement for the Registrable Securities on file with the Commission pursuant to Section 2.1.

 

2.2.2 Effective Registration. A Registration will not count as a Demand Registration until the Registration Statement filed with the Commission with respect to such Demand Registration has been declared effective and the Company has complied with all of its obligations under this Agreement with respect thereto; provided, however, that if, after such Registration Statement has been declared effective, the offering of Registrable Securities pursuant to a Demand Registration is interfered with by any stop order or injunction of the Commission or any other governmental agency or court, the Registration Statement with respect to such Demand Registration will be deemed not to have been declared effective, unless and until, (i) such stop order or injunction is removed, rescinded or otherwise terminated, and (ii) a majority-in-interest of the Demanding Holders thereafter elect to continue the offering; provided, further, that the Company shall not be obligated to file a second Registration Statement until a Registration Statement that has been filed is counted as a Demand Registration or is terminated (including, but no limited to, as a consequence of a vote by a majority-in-interest of the Demanding Holders).

 

2.2.3 Underwritten Offering. If the Demanding Holders so elect and such holders so advise the Company as part of their written demand for a Demand Registration, the offering of such Registrable Securities pursuant to such Demand Registration shall be in the form of an underwritten offering. In such event, the right of any holder to include its Registrable Securities in such registration shall be conditioned upon such holder’s participation in such underwriting and the inclusion of such holder’s Registrable Securities in the underwriting to the extent provided herein. All Demanding Holders proposing to distribute their Registrable Securities through such underwriting shall enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the Underwriter or Underwriters selected for such underwriting by the holders initiating the Demand Registration, and subject to the approval of the Company.

 

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

 

2.2.5 Withdrawal. Any Demanding Holder or Requesting Holder shall have the right to withdraw from a Registration pursuant to such Demand Registration for any or no reason whatsoever upon written notification to the Company and the Underwriter or Underwriters, if any, of their intention to withdraw from such Registration prior to (i) in the case of a Demand Registration not involving an Underwritten Offering, the effectiveness of the Registration Statement filed with the Commission with respect to the Registration of their Registrable Securities pursuant to such Demand Registration or (ii) in the case of a Demand Registration involving an Underwritten Offering, the pricing of such Underwritten Offering; provided, however, that upon withdrawal by a majority-in-interest of the Demanding Holders initiating a Demand Registration, the Company shall cease all efforts to secure effectiveness of the applicable Registration Statement or complete the Underwritten Offering, as applicable. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, (a) upon withdrawal, such Registration shall no longer be considered a Demand Registration and (b) the Company shall be responsible for the registration expenses incurred in connection with a Demand Registration prior to its withdrawal under this Section 2.2.5.

 

2.3 Piggy-Back Registration.

 

2.3.1 Piggy-Back Rights. If at any time after the expiration of the Lock-Up Period, the Company proposes to file a Registration Statement under the Securities Act with respect to an offering of equity securities, or securities or other obligations exercisable or exchangeable for, or convertible into, equity securities, by the Company for its own account or for shareholders of the Company for their account (or by the Company and by shareholders of the Company including, without limitation, pursuant to Section 2.1), other than a Registration Statement (i) filed in connection with any employee stock option or other benefit plan, (ii) for an exchange offer or offering of securities solely to the Company’s existing shareholders, (iii) for an offering of debt that is convertible into equity securities of the Company or (iv) for a dividend reinvestment plan, then the Company shall (x) give written notice of such proposed filing to the holders of Registrable Securities as soon as practicable but in no event less than ten (10) calendar days before the anticipated filing date, which notice shall describe the amount and type of securities to be included in such offering, the intended method(s) of distribution, and the name of the proposed managing Underwriter or Underwriters, if any, of the offering, and (y) offer to the holders of Registrable Securities in such notice the opportunity to register the sale of such number of shares of Registrable Securities as such holders may request in writing within five (5) calendar days following receipt of such notice (a “Piggy-Back Registration”). The Company shall cause such Registrable Securities to be included in such registration and shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause the managing Underwriter or Underwriters of a proposed underwritten offering to permit the Registrable Securities requested to be included in a Piggy-Back Registration on the same terms and conditions as any similar securities of the Company and to permit the sale or other disposition of such Registrable Securities in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof. All holders of Registrable Securities proposing to distribute their securities through a Piggy-Back Registration that involves an Underwriter or Underwriters shall enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the Underwriter or Underwriters selected for such Piggy-Back Registration.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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3. REGISTRATION PROCEDURES.

 

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

 

3.1.1 Filing Registration Statement. The Company shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to, as expeditiously as possible after receipt of a request for a Demand Registration pursuant to Section 2.2, prepare and file with the Commission a Registration Statement on any form for which the Company then qualifies or which counsel for the Company shall deem appropriate and which form shall be available for the sale of all Registrable Securities to be registered thereunder in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof, and shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause such Registration Statement to become effective and use its commercially reasonable efforts to keep it effective until all Registrable Securities covered by such Registration Statement are cold in accordance with the intended plan of distribution set forth in such Registration Statement or supplement to the Prospectus; provided, however, that if the filing, initial effectiveness or continued use of any Registration Statement (including the Resale Shelf Registration Statement) at any time would require the Company to make an Adverse Disclosure, the Company may, upon giving prompt written notice of such action to the holders of Registrable Securities, delay the filing or initial effectiveness of, or suspend use of, such Registration Statement (a “Suspension Event”); provided, however, that the Company shall not be permitted to exercise a Suspension Event for more than a total of ninety (90) calendar days in any three hundred sixty-five (365)-day period; and provided further that the Company shall not register any securities for its own account or that of any other stockholder during any such Suspension Event, other than pursuant to a registration relating to the sale or grant of securities to employees or directors of the Company or a subsidiary pursuant to a stock option, stock purchase, equity incentive or similar plan; or a registration in which the only Class A Common Stock being registered is Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of debt securities that are also being registered. In the case of a Suspension Event, the holders of Registrable Securities agree to suspend use of the applicable Prospectus in connection with any sale or purchase, or offer to sell or purchase, Registrable Securities, as applicable, upon receipt of the notice referred to above. The Company shall immediately notify the holders of Registrable Securities in writing upon the termination of any Suspension Event, amend or supplement the Prospectus, if necessary, so it does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or any omission of a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading and furnish to the holders of Registrable Securities such numbers of copies of the Prospectus as so amended or supplemented as the holders of Registrable Securities may reasonably request. The Company shall, if necessary, supplement or amend the Resale Shelf Registration Statement or Demand Registration Statement, if required by the registration form used by the Company for the Resale Shelf Registration Statement or Demand Registration or by the instructions applicable to such registration form or by the Securities Act or the rules or regulations promulgated thereunder or as may reasonably be requested by the holders of Registrable Securities holding a majority of Registrable Securities that are included in such Resale Shelf Registration Statement or Demand Registration Statement.

 

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

 

3.1.3 Amendments and Supplements. Until the earlier of (i) the first anniversary of the date of filing “Form 10 information” (as defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act) reflecting the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Unit Purchase Agreement or (ii) the date as of which all of the Registrable Securities, as applicable, have been sold pursuant to a Registration Statement (but in no event prior to the applicable period referred to in Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act and Rule 174 thereunder (or any successor rule promulgated thereafter by the Commission)), the Company shall prepare and file with the Commission such amendments, including post-effective amendments, and supplements to such Registration Statement and the Prospectus used in connection therewith as may be necessary to keep such Registration Statement effective and in compliance with the provisions of the Securities Act (the “Effectiveness Period”).

 

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3.1.4 Notification. After the filing of a Registration Statement, the Company shall promptly, and in no event more than three (3) Business Days after such filing, notify the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement of such filing, and shall further notify such holders promptly and confirm such advice in writing in all events within three (3) Business Days of the occurrence of any of the following: (i) when such Registration Statement becomes effective; (ii) when any post-effective amendment to such Registration Statement becomes effective; (iii) the issuance or threatened issuance by the Commission of any stop order (and the Company shall take all actions required to prevent the entry of such stop order or to remove it if entered); and (iv) any request by the Commission for any amendment or supplement to such Registration Statement or any Prospectus relating thereto or for additional information or of the occurrence of an event requiring the preparation of a supplement or amendment to such Prospectus so that, as thereafter delivered to the purchasers of the securities covered by such Registration Statement, such Prospectus will not contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and promptly make available to the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement any such supplement or amendment; except that before filing with the Commission a Registration Statement or Prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto, including documents incorporated by reference, the Company shall furnish to the holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement and to the legal counsel for any such holders, copies of all such documents proposed to be filed sufficiently in advance of filing to provide such holders and legal counsel with a reasonable opportunity to review such documents and comment thereon.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

3.1.9 Cooperation. The principal executive officer of the Company, the principal financial officer of the Company, the principal accounting officer of the Company, and all other officers and members of the management of the Company shall, in good faith, cooperate reasonably with, and take such customary actions as may reasonably be requested by the holders of Registrable Securities, in any offering of Registrable Securities hereunder, which cooperation shall include, without limitation, the preparation of the Registration Statement with respect to such offering and all other offering materials and related documents, and participation in meetings with Underwriters, attorneys, accountants and potential investors. If an underwritten offering involves Registrable Securities with a total offering price (including piggyback securities and before deducting underwriting discounts) to exceed $50.0 million, the Company will use its commercially reasonable efforts to make available senior executives of the Company to participate in customary “road show” presentations that may be reasonably requested by the Underwriter in the underwritten offering.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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3.3 Registration Expenses. The Company shall bear all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the Resale Shelf Registration Statement pursuant to Section 2.1, any Demand Registration pursuant to Section 2.2, any Underwritten Takedown pursuant to Section 2.1.5(a)(i) or Section 2.2.1 and any Piggy-Back Registration pursuant to Section 2.3, and all expenses incurred in performing or complying with its other obligations under this Agreement, whether or not the Registration Statement becomes effective or the Underwritten Takedown is consummated, as applicable, including, without limitation: (i) all registration and filing fees; (ii) fees and expenses of compliance with securities or “blue sky” laws (including fees and disbursements of counsel in connection with blue sky qualifications of the Registrable Securities); (iii) printing expenses; (iv) the Company’s internal expenses (including, without limitation, all salaries and expenses of its officers and employees); (v) the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the listing of the Registrable Securities as required by Section 3.1.12; (vi) FINRA fees; (vii) fees and disbursements of counsel for the Company and fees and expenses for independent certified public accountants retained by the Company; (viii) the fees and expenses of any special experts retained by the Company in connection with such registration and (ix) the reasonable fees and expenses of one (1) legal counsel selected by the holders of a majority-in-interest of the Registrable Securities included in such registration in an amount not to exceed $75,000. The Company shall have no obligation to pay any underwriting discounts or selling commissions attributable to the Registrable Securities being sold by the holders thereof, which underwriting discounts or selling commissions shall be borne by such holders. Additionally, in an underwritten offering, all selling shareholders and the Company shall bear the expenses of the Underwriter’s marketing costs pro rata in proportion to the respective amount of shares each is selling in such offering.

 

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

 

3.5 Compliance with Lock-Up Agreement. Notwithstanding anything to in this Agreement to the contrary, all sales of Registrable Securities, including without limitation, the timing and amount of Registrable Securities sold, must comply with the terms of the Lock-Up Agreement. In addition, the holders of Registrable Securities agree that they shall, prior to and in conjunction with any notice pursuant to Section 2.1.5(a) regarding a proposed Underwritten Takedown or pursuant to Section 2.2, consult with the Company regarding market conditions and the advisability of undertaking such an offering of Registrable Securities at that time and agrees to delay or defer any proposed offering as may be reasonably requested by the Company.

 

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4. INDEMNIFICATION AND CONTRIBUTION.

 

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

 

4.2 Indemnification by Holders of Registrable Securities. Each selling holder of Registrable Securities will, in the event that any registration is being effected under the Securities Act pursuant to this Agreement of any Registrable Securities held by such selling holder, indemnify and hold harmless, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the Company, each of its directors and officers, and each other selling holder and each other person, if any, who controls another selling holder within the meaning of the Securities Act, against any losses, claims, judgments, damages or liabilities, whether joint or several, insofar as such losses, claims, judgments, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue statement of a material fact contained in any Registration Statement under which the sale of such Registrable Securities was registered under the Securities Act, any Prospectus (including any preliminary Prospectus, final Prospectus or summary Prospectus) contained in the Registration Statement, or any amendment or supplement to the Registration Statement, or arise out of or are based upon any omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statement therein not misleading, but only to the extent that such untrue statement or omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished in writing to the Company by such selling holder expressly for use therein. Each selling holder’s indemnification obligations hereunder shall be several and not joint and shall be in proportion to and limited to the aggregate amount of any net proceeds (after payment of any underwriting fees, discounts, commissions, or taxes) actually received by such selling holder in connection with the sale of Registrable Securities under such Registration Statement or Prospectus. The selling holders shall indemnify the Underwriters, their officers, directors, and each person who controls such Underwriters (within the meaning of the Securities Act) to the same extent as provided in the foregoing with respect to the indemnification of the Company.

 

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

 

4.4 Contribution.

 

4.4.1 If the indemnification provided for in the foregoing Sections 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 is unavailable to any Indemnified Party in respect of any loss, claim, damage, liability or action referred to herein, then each such Indemnifying Party, in lieu of indemnifying such Indemnified Party, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such Indemnified Party as a result of such loss, claim, damage, liability or action in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of the Indemnified Parties and the Indemnifying Parties in connection with the actions or omissions which resulted in such loss, claim, damage, liability or action, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of any Indemnified Party and any Indemnifying Party shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by such Indemnified Party, the extent that such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished by the Indemnifying Party expressly for use in the applicable Registration Statement or Prospectus, or such parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, no party shall be obligated to contribute pursuant to this Section unless and until it is determined to be an Indemnifying Party subject to the obligations of Section 4.1 or 4.2, as applicable.

 

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

 

4.4.3 The amount paid or payable by an Indemnified Party as a result of any loss, claim, damage, liability or action referred to in the immediately preceding paragraph shall be deemed to include, subject to the limitations set forth above, any legal or other expenses incurred by such Indemnified Party in connection with investigating or defending any such action or claim. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 4.4, no holder of Registrable Securities shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the limitations on indemnity provided under Section 4.2. No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.

 

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4.5 Survival. The indemnification provided for under this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of the Indemnified Party or any officer, director, or controlling person of such Indemnified Party and shall survive the transfer of securities.

 

5. UNDERWRITING AND DISTRIBUTION.

 

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

 

6. MISCELLANEOUS.

 

6.1 Assignment; No Third Party Beneficiaries. This Agreement and the rights, duties and obligations of the Company hereunder may not be assigned or delegated by the Company in whole or in part. This Agreement and the provisions hereof shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of each of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns and the holders of Registrable Securities and their respective successors and permitted assigns. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or benefits on any persons that are not party hereto other than as expressly set forth in Section 4 and this Section 6.1.

 

6.2 Amendments and Modifications. Upon the written consent of the Company and the holders of at least a majority in interest of the Registrable Securities at the time in question, compliance with any of the provisions, covenants and conditions set forth in this Agreement may be waived, or any of such provisions, covenants or conditions may be amended or modified; provided, however, that notwithstanding the foregoing, any amendment hereto or waiver hereof that adversely affects one holder or group of holders, solely in his, her or its capacity as a holder of the shares of capital stock of the Company, in a manner that is materially different from the other holders (in such capacity) shall require the consent of the holder or holders so affected. In addition, each party hereto may waive any right hereunder (solely as applicable to such party) by an instrument in writing signed by such party. No course of dealing between any holder or the Company and any other party hereto or any failure or delay on the part of a holder or the Company in exercising any rights or remedies under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver of any rights or remedies of any holder or the Company. No single or partial exercise of any rights or remedies under this Agreement by a party shall operate as a waiver or preclude the exercise of any other rights or remedies hereunder or thereunder by such party.

 

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6.3 Term. This Agreement shall terminate, with respect to any Registrable Securities, as applicable, upon the earlier of (i) the fourth anniversary of the date of this Agreement or (ii) the date as of which all of the Registrable Securities, as applicable, have been sold pursuant to a Registration Statement (but in no event prior to the applicable period referred to in Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act and Rule 174 thereunder (or any successor rule promulgated thereafter by the Commission)); provided that the provisions of Section 4 and Section 5 shall survive such termination.

 

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

 

If to the Company:

 

SHF Holdings, Inc.
10 East 53rd Street, Suite 3001

New York, NY 10022
Attn: John Darwin, Co-Chief Executive Officer
Telephone No.: (615) 554-0044
Email: jdarwin@luminouscap.ca

 

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

 

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite 900

Washington, D.C. 20001
Attn: Andrew M. Tucker, Esq.
Telephone No.: (202) 689-2987
Email: andy.tucker@nelsonmullins.com

 

If to SHF Holding:

 

SHF Holding Co, LLC
6221 Sheridan Boulevard

Arvada, Colorado 80003
Attn: Chief Executive Officer
Email: FaganD@partnercoloradocu.org

 

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

 

Waller Law, LLC
PO Box 3237

Evergreen, CO 80437
Attn: David Waller
Telephone No.: (720) 583-1716
Email: dave@legalaspirin.com

 

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If to PCCU:

 

Partner Colorado Credit Union
6221 Sheridan Boulevard
Arvada, Colorado 80003
Attn: Chief Executive Officer
Email: FaganD@partnercoloradocu.org

 

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

 

Waller Law, LLC
PO Box 3237

Evergreen, CO 80437
Attn: David Waller
Telephone No.: (720) 583-1716
Email: dave@legalaspirin.com

 

If to a holder of Registrable Securities, other than SHF Holding and PCCU, to the address set forth under such holder’s signature to this Agreement or to such holder’s address as found in the Company’s books and records; or to such other address as the party to whom notice is given may have previously furnished to the others in writing in the manner set forth above.

 

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

 

6.6 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Colorado, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law provision or rule (whether of the State of Colorado or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the law of any jurisdiction other than the State of Colorado.

 

6.7 Waiver of Jury Trial. THE PARTIES EACH HEREBY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY OF ANY PROCEEDING, CLAIM, DEMAND, ACTION, OR CAUSE OF ACTION (I) ARISING UNDER THIS AGREEMENT OR (II) IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH OR RELATED OR INCIDENTAL TO THE DEALINGS OF THE PARTIES IN RESPECT OF THIS AGREEMENT, WHETHER NOW EXISTING OR HEREAFTER ARISING, AND WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT, EQUITY, OR OTHERWISE. THE PARTIES EACH HEREBY AGREES AND CONSENTS THAT ANY SUCH PROCEEDING, CLAIM, DEMAND, ACTION OR CAUSE OF ACTION SHALL BE DECIDED BY COURT TRIAL WITHOUT A JURY AND THAT THE PARTIES MAY FILE AN ORIGINAL COUNTERPART OF A COPY OF THIS AGREEMENT WITH ANY COURT AS WRITTEN EVIDENCE OF THE CONSENT OF THE PARTIES HERETO TO THE WAIVER OF THEIR RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY. EACH PARTY CERTIFIES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT (A) NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER, (B) EACH SUCH PARTY UNDERSTANDS AND HAS CONSIDERED THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS WAIVER, (C) EACH SUCH PARTY MAKES THIS WAIVER VOLUNTARILY AND (D) EACH SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION 6.7.

 

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6.8 Submission to Jurisdiction. Each of the Parties irrevocably and unconditionally submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of any state or federal court located in Denver, Colorado, for the purposes of any Proceeding, claim, demand, action or cause of action (a) arising under this Agreement or (b) in any way connected with or related or incidental to the dealings of the parties in respect of this Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby, and irrevocably and unconditionally waives any objection to the laying of venue of any such Proceeding in any such court, and further irrevocably and unconditionally waives and agrees not to plead or claim in any such court that any such Proceeding has been brought in an inconvenient forum. Each party hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waives, and agrees not to assert, by way of motion or as a defense, counterclaim or otherwise, in any Proceeding claim, demand, action or cause of action against such party (i) arising under this Agreement or (ii) in any way connected with or related or incidental to the dealings of the Parties in respect of this Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby, (A) any claim that such party is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of the courts as described in this Section 6.8 for any reason, (B) that such party or such party’s property is exempt or immune from the jurisdiction of any such court or from any legal process commenced in such courts (whether through service of notice, attachment prior to judgment, attachment in aid of execution of judgment, execution of judgment or otherwise) and (C) that (x) the Proceeding, claim, demand, action or cause of action in any such court is brought against such party in an inconvenient forum, (y) the venue of such Proceeding, claim, demand, action or cause of action against such party is improper or (z) this Agreement, or the subject matter hereof, may not be enforced against such party in or by such courts. Each party agrees that service of any process, summons, notice or document by registered mail to such party’s respective address set forth in Section 6.4 shall be effective service of process for any such Proceeding, claim, demand, action or cause of action.

 

6.9 Remedies. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, any and all remedies provided herein will be deemed cumulative with and not exclusive of any other remedy conferred hereby, or by law or equity upon such party, and the exercise by a party of any one remedy will not preclude the exercise of any other remedy. The parties agree that irreparable damage for which monetary damages, even if available, would not be an adequate remedy, would occur in the event that the parties do not perform their respective obligations under the provisions of this Agreement (including failing to take such actions as are required of them hereunder to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement) in accordance with their specific terms or otherwise breach such provisions. It is accordingly agreed that the parties shall be entitled to seek an injunction or injunctions, specific performance and other equitable relief to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically the terms and provisions of this Agreement, in each case, without posting a bond and this being in addition to any other remedy to which they are entitled at law or in equity. Each of the parties agrees that it will not oppose the granting of an injunction, specific performance and other equitable relief when expressly available pursuant to the terms of this Agreement on the basis that the other parties have an adequate remedy at law or an award of specific performance is not an appropriate remedy for any reason at law or equity.

 

6.10 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

 

6.11 Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the Lock-Up Agreement (including all agreements entered into pursuant hereto and all certificates and instruments delivered pursuant hereto and thereto) constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior and contemporaneous agreements, representations, understandings, negotiations and discussions between the parties, whether oral or written.

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

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

 

  SHF HOLDINGS, INC.
   
  By: /s/ John Darwin
  Name: John Darwin
  Title: Co-Chief Executive Officer

 

  SHF HOLDING CO., LLC
   
  By: /s/ Richard Bollig
  Name: Richard Bollig
  Title: Board Chair

 

  PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION
     
  By: /s/ Linda Head
  Name: Linda Head
  Title: Board Chair

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE TO REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT]

 

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Exhibit 10.2

 

LOCK-UP AGREEMENT

 

THIS LOCK-UP AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) has been executed and is effective as of the Closing Date (as defined in the Purchase Agreement, as defined below) by and between (i) SHF Holdings, Inc. (f/k/a Northern Lights Acquisition Corp.), a Delaware corporation (including any successor entity thereto, the “Purchaser”), and (ii) Partner Colorado Credit Union, a Colorado-chartered credit union (“PCCU”) and SHF Holding Co, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“Holding”). PCCU and Holding are referred to herein individual as a “Subject Party” and collectively as the “Subject Parties.” Any capitalized term used but not defined in this Agreement will have the meaning ascribed to such term in the Purchase Agreement.

 

WHEREAS, on February 11, 2022, (i) the Purchaser, (ii) 5AK, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, in the capacity as the Purchaser Representative (as defined in the Purchase Agreement), (iii) the Subject Parties, and (iv) SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial, a Colorado limited liability company (the “Company”), entered into that certain Unit Purchase Agreement (as amended from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof, the “Purchase Agreement”), pursuant to which the parties thereto intend to effect the purchase by the Purchaser of 100% of the issued and outstanding Company Membership Interests from Holding, in exchange for the Purchase Consideration, all upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Purchase Agreement and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law (as amended) and the Colorado Corporations and Association Act (as amended) (the “Purchase”);

 

WHEREAS, PCCU is the sole member of Holding; and

 

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, and in view of the valuable consideration to be received by Holding thereunder, the parties desire to enter into this Agreement, pursuant to which the Purchaser Common Stock received by Holding in the Purchase (all such securities, together with any securities paid as dividends or distributions with respect to such securities or into which such securities are exchanged or converted, the Restricted Securities) shall become subject to limitations on disposition as set forth herein.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises set forth above, which are incorporated in this Agreement as if fully set forth below, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereby agree as follows:

 

1. Lock-Up Provisions.

 

(a) Each of the Subject Parties hereby agrees not to, during the period commencing from the Closing and ending on the earliest of (x) six (6) months after the date of the Closing and (y) the date after the Closing on which the Purchaser consummates a liquidation, merger, capital stock exchange, reorganization, or other similar transaction with an unaffiliated third party that results in all of the Purchaser’s stockholders having the right to exchange their shares of the Purchaser Common Stock for cash, securities, or other property (the “Lock-Up Period”): (i) lend, offer, pledge, hypothecate, encumber, donate, assign, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any Restricted Securities, (ii) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of the Restricted Securities, or (iii) publicly disclose the intention to do any of the foregoing, whether any such transaction described in clauses (i), (ii), or (iii) above is to be settled by delivery of Restricted Securities or other securities, in cash or otherwise (any of the foregoing described in clauses (i), (ii), or (iii), a “Prohibited Transfer”).

 

 

 

 

(b) The foregoing shall not apply to the transfer of any or all of the Restricted Securities (I) to any Permitted Transferee or (II) pursuant to a court order or settlement agreement related to the distribution of assets in connection with the dissolution of marriage or civil union; provided, however, that in any of cases (I) or (II), it shall be a condition to such transfer that such transfer complies with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and other applicable law, and that the transferee executes and delivers to the Purchaser an agreement stating that the transferee is receiving and holding the Restricted Securities subject to the provisions of this Agreement applicable to the Subject Parties, and there shall be no further transfer of such Restricted Securities except in accordance with this Agreement. As used in this Agreement, the term “Permitted Transferee” shall mean: (1) the members of a Subject Party’s immediate family (for purposes of this Agreement, “immediate family” shall mean with respect to any natural person, any of the following: such person’s spouse or domestic partner, the siblings of such person and his or her spouse or domestic partner, and the direct descendants and ascendants (including adopted and step children and parents) of such person and his or her spouses or domestic partners and siblings), (2) any trust for the direct or indirect benefit of a Subject Party or the immediate family of a Subject Party, (3) if a Subject Party is a trust, to the trustor or beneficiary of such trust or to the estate of a beneficiary of such trust, (4) in the case of an entity, partners, members, or stockholders of such entity that receive such transfer as a distribution, (5) to any affiliate of a Subject Party, and (6) any transferee whereby there is no change in beneficial ownership. Each Subject Party further agrees to execute such agreements as may be reasonably requested by the Purchaser that are consistent with the foregoing or that are necessary to give further effect thereto.

 

(c) If any Prohibited Transfer is made or attempted contrary to the provisions of this Agreement, such purported Prohibited Transfer shall be null and void ab initio, and the Purchaser shall refuse to recognize any such purported transferee of the Restricted Securities as one of its equity holders for any purpose. In order to enforce this Section 1, the Purchaser may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to the Restricted Securities of the Subject Party (and Permitted Transferees and assigns thereof) until the end of the Lock-Up Period.

 

(d) During the Lock-Up Period, each certificate evidencing any Restricted Securities shall be stamped or otherwise imprinted with a legend in substantially the following form, in addition to any other applicable legends:

 

“THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER SET FORTH IN A LOCK-UP AGREEMENT, DATED AS OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2022, BY AND AMONG THE ISSUER OF SUCH SECURITIES (THE “ISSUER”) AND THE ISSUER’S SECURITY HOLDER NAMED THEREIN, AS AMENDED. A COPY OF SUCH LOCK-UP AGREEMENT WILL BE FURNISHED WITHOUT CHARGE BY THE ISSUER TO THE HOLDER HEREOF UPON WRITTEN REQUEST.”

 

(e) Following the expiration of the Lock-Up Period, the Subject Parties agree that they collectively shall not sell, without the prior written approval of the Purchaser (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed), a number of Restricted Securities, in any one transaction, that exceeds five percent (5%) of the weighted average daily trading volume for the prior calendar quarter (the “Transaction Limitation”); provided, however, that block trades or underwritten offerings conducted in accordance with the Registration Rights Agreement dated the date hereof among the Purchaser and the Subject Parties (“Permitted Transactions”) shall not be subject to the Transaction Limitation. For purpose of the preceding sentence, the weighted average daily trading volume shall exclude all purchase or sale transactions by a Subject Party or any affiliate of a Subject Party. The Purchaser agrees that it shall take into account the Divestiture Schedule attached hereto as Schedule 1 when considering a request for approval to exceed the Transaction Limitation, and further agrees that any such request for approval shall not be deemed a modification of the terms of this Agreement. The Subject Parties agree to consult with the Purchaser regarding market conditions and the advisability of undertaking any such Permitted Transactions at that time.

 

2

 

 

(f) For the avoidance of any doubt, Holder shall retain all of its rights as a stockholder of the Purchaser during the Lock-Up Period, including the right to vote any Restricted Securities.

 

2. Miscellaneous; No Third-Party Beneficiaries.

 

(a) Binding Effect; Assignment. This Agreement and all of the provisions hereof shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective permitted successors and assigns. This Agreement and all rights and obligations of a party are personal and may not be transferred or delegated at any time. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Purchaser may freely assign any or all of its rights under this Agreement, in whole or in part, to any successor entity (whether by merger, consolidation, equity sale, asset sale, or otherwise) without obtaining the consent or approval of the Subject Parties. This Agreement is intended for the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns and is not for the benefit of, nor may any provision hereof be enforced by, any other person.

 

(b) Third Parties. Nothing contained in this Agreement or in any instrument or document executed by any party in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby shall create any rights in, or be deemed to have been executed for the benefit of, any person or entity that is not a party hereto or thereto or a successor or permitted assign of such a party.

 

(c) Governing Law; Jurisdiction. This Agreement and any dispute or controversy arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Colorado, without regard to the conflict of law principles thereof. All Actions arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be heard and determined exclusively in any state or federal court located in Denver, Colorado (or in any appellate courts thereof) (the “Specified Courts”). Each party hereto hereby (i) submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of any Specified Court for the purpose of any Action arising out of or relating to this Agreement brought by any party hereto and (ii) irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert by way of motion, defense, or otherwise, in any such Action, any claim that it is not subject personally to the jurisdiction of the above-named courts, that its property is exempt or immune from attachment or execution, that the Action is brought in an inconvenient forum, that the venue of the Action is improper, or that this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby may not be enforced in or by any Specified Court. Each party agrees that a final judgment in any Action shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by Law. Each party irrevocably consents to the service of the summons and complaint and any other process in any other action or proceeding relating to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, on behalf of itself, or its property, by personal delivery of copies of such process to such party at the applicable address set forth in Section 2(f). Nothing in this Section shall affect the right of any party to serve legal process in any other manner permitted by applicable law.

 

(d) WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. EACH OF THE PARTIES HERETO HEREBY WAIVES TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY WITH RESPECT TO ANY ACTION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF, UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY. EACH PARTY HERETO (i) CERTIFIES THAT NO REPRESENTATIVE OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF ANY ACTION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THAT FOREGOING WAIVER AND (ii) ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT AND THE OTHER PARTIES HERETO HAVE BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION.

 

3

 

 

(e) Interpretation. The titles and subtitles used in this Agreement are for convenience only and are not to be considered in construing or interpreting this Agreement. In this Agreement, unless the context otherwise requires: (i) any pronoun used in this Agreement shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine, or neuter forms, and the singular form of nouns, pronouns, and verbs shall include the plural and vice versa; (ii) “including” (and with correlative meaning “include”) means including without limiting the generality of any description preceding or succeeding such term and shall be deemed in each case to be followed by the words “without limitation”; (iii) the words “herein,” “hereto,” and “hereby” and other words of similar import in this Agreement shall be deemed in each case to refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular section or other subdivision of this Agreement; and (iv) the term “or” means “and/or”. The parties have participated jointly in the negotiation and drafting of this Agreement. Consequently, in the event an ambiguity or question of intent or interpretation arises, this Agreement shall be construed as if drafted jointly by the parties hereto, and no presumption or burden of proof shall arise favoring or disfavoring any party by virtue of the authorship of any provision of this Agreement.

 

(f) Notices. All notices, consents, waivers, and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given when delivered (i) in person, (ii) by facsimile or other electronic means, with affirmative confirmation of receipt, (iii) one Business Day after being sent, if sent by reputable, nationally recognized overnight courier service, or (iv) three (3) Business Days after being mailed, if sent by registered or certified mail, pre-paid and return receipt requested, in each case to the applicable party at the following addresses (or at such other address for a party as shall be specified by like notice):

 

If to the Purchaser after the Closing, to:

 

SHF Holdings, Inc.
10 East 53rd Street, Suite 3001

New York, NY 10022
Attn: John Darwin, Co-Chief Executive Officer
Telephone No.: (615) 554-0044
Email: jdarwin@luminouscap.ca

with copies to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite 900
Washington, D.C. 20001
Attn: Andrew M. Tucker, Esq.
Facsimile No.: (202) 689-2860
Telephone No.: (202) 689-2987
Email: andy.tucker@nelsonmullins.com

   
If to Holding, to: the address set forth below Holding’s name on the signature page to this Agreement.
 
If to PCCU, to: the address set forth below PCCU’s name on the signature page to this Agreement.

 

(g) Amendments and Waivers. Any term of this Agreement may be amended and the observance of any term of this Agreement may be waived (either generally or in a particular instance, and either retroactively or prospectively) only with the written consent of the Purchaser and the Subject Parties. No failure or delay by a party in exercising any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof. No waivers of or exceptions to any term, condition, or provision of this Agreement, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to be or construed as a further or continuing waiver of any such term, condition, or provision.

 

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(h) Authorization on Behalf of the Purchaser. The parties acknowledge and agree that notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, any and all determinations, actions, or other authorizations under this Agreement on behalf of the Purchaser, including enforcing the Purchaser’s rights and remedies under this Agreement, or providing any waivers with respect to the provisions hereof, shall solely be made, taken, and authorized by majority of the disinterested independent directors of the Purchaser’s board of directors. In the event that the Purchaser at any time does not have any disinterested directors, so long as the Subject Parties have any remaining obligations under this Agreement, the Purchaser will promptly appoint one in connection with this Agreement. Without limiting the foregoing, in the event that an affiliate of a Subject party serves as a director, officer, employee, or other authorized agent of the Purchaser or any of its current or future affiliates, neither the Subject Party nor its affiliate shall have authority, express or implied, to act or make any determination on behalf of the Purchaser or any of its current or future affiliates in connection with this Agreement or any dispute or Action with respect hereto.

 

(i) Severability. In case any provision in this Agreement shall be held invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in a jurisdiction, such provision shall be modified or deleted, as to the jurisdiction involved, only to the extent necessary to render the same valid, legal, and enforceable, and the validity, legality, and enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby nor shall the validity, legality, or enforceability of such provision be affected thereby in any other jurisdiction. Upon such determination that any term or other provision is invalid, illegal, or incapable of being enforced, the parties will substitute for any invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision a suitable and equitable provision that carries out, so far as may be valid, legal, and enforceable, the intent and purpose of such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision.

 

(j) Specific Performance. Each party acknowledges that its obligations under this Agreement are unique, recognizes and affirms that in the event of a breach of this Agreement, money damages will be inadequate and there will be no adequate remedy at law, and agrees that irreparable damage would occur in the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement were not performed in accordance with their specific terms or were otherwise breached. Accordingly, the adversely affected party or parties shall be entitled to an injunction or restraining order to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically the terms and provisions hereof, without the requirement to post any bond or other security, this being in addition to any other right or remedy available under this Agreement, at law or in equity.

 

(k) Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the full and entire understanding and agreement among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and any other written or oral agreement relating to the subject matter hereof existing between the parties is expressly canceled; provided, that, for the avoidance of doubt, the foregoing shall not affect the rights and obligations of the parties under the Purchase Agreement or any Ancillary Document. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall limit any of the rights or remedies or any of the obligations of the parties hereto under any other agreement between a Subject Party and the Purchaser or any certificate or instrument delivered in connection with the Purchase, and nothing in any other agreement, certificate, or instrument shall limit any of the rights or remedies or any of the obligations under this Agreement.

 

(l) Further Assurances. From time to time, at another party’s request and without further consideration (but at the requesting party’s reasonable cost and expense), each party shall execute and deliver such additional documents and take all such further action as may be reasonably necessary to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

(m) Counterparts; Facsimile. This Agreement may also be executed and delivered by facsimile signature or by email in portable document format in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

 

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank; Signature Pages Follow]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Lock-Up Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

  The Purchaser:
     
  SHF HOLDINGS, INC.
     
  By: /s/ John Darwin
  Name: John Darwin
  Title: Co-Chief Executive Officer

 

{Additional Signatures on the Following Pages}

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Lock-Up Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

Holding:

 

SHF Holding Co., LLC

 
     
By: /s/ Richard Bollig  
Name: Richard Bollig  
Title: Board Chair  

 

Number of Shares and Type of Purchaser Common Stock:

 

Purchaser Common Stock: ______________________________

___________________________________________________

 

Address for Notice:

 

Address: SHF Holding Co, LLC
6221 Sheridan Boulevard
Arvada, Colorado 80401
Attention: Chief Executive Officer
Email: FaganD@partnercoloradocu.org:

 

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

 

Waller Law, LLC
PO Box 3237

Evergreen, CO 80437
Attn: David Waller
Telephone No.: (720) 583-1716
Email: dave@legalaspirin.com

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Lock-Up Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

PCCU:

 

Partner Colorado Credit Union

 

By: /s/ Linda Head  
Name: Linda Head  
Title: Board Chair  

 

Number of Shares and Type of Purchaser Common Stock:

 

Purchaser Common Stock: 11,386,139______________________

___________________________________________________

 

Address for Notice:

 

Address: Partner Colorado Credit Union
6221 Sheridan Boulevard
Arvada, Colorado 80003
Attention: Chief Executive Officer
Email: FaganD@partnercoloradocu.org:

 

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

 

Waller Law, LLC
PO Box 3237

Evergreen, CO 80437
Attn: David Waller
Telephone No.: (720) 583-1716
Email: dave@legalaspirin.com

 

 

 

 

SCHEDULE 1

 

[omitted in accordance with Regulation S-K Item 601(a)(5)]

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.3

 

NON-COMPETITION AND NON-SOLICITATION AGREEMENT

 

THIS NON-COMPETITION AND NON-SOLICITATION AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) has been executed, and is effective as of the Closing Date, by Partner Colorado Credit Union, a Colorado-chartered credit union (“PCCU”) and the sole member of SHF Holding Co., LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“Holding”) and the sole member of the Company (defined below) (PCCU and Holding are referred to herein individually as a “Subject Party” and collectively as the “Subject Parties”), in favor of and for the benefit of Northern Lights Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation (including any successor entity thereto, the “Purchaser”), SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial, a Colorado limited liability company (the “Company”), and each of the Purchaser’s and/or the Company’s respective Affiliates (as defined in the Purchase Agreement (as defined below)), successors, and direct and indirect Subsidiaries (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) (collectively with the Purchaser and the Company, the “Covered Parties”). Any capitalized term used, but not defined in this Agreement will have the meaning ascribed to such term in the Purchase Agreement.

 

WHEREAS, on February 11, 2022, (i) the Purchaser, (ii) 5AK, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, in the capacity as the representative from and after the Closing for the stockholders of the Purchaser in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Purchase Agreement, (iii) the Subject Parties, and (iv) the Company entered into that certain Unit Purchase Agreement (as amended from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof, the “Purchase Agreement”), pursuant to which the parties thereto intend to effect the purchase by the Purchaser of 100% of the issued and outstanding Company Membership Interests from Holding, in exchange for the Purchase Consideration, all upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Purchase Agreement and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law (as amended) and the Colorado Corporations and Association Act (as amended) (the “Purchase”);

 

WHEREAS, as of the Closing Date, the Company provides financial services to businesses in the cannabis industry (the “Business”);

 

WHEREAS, in connection with, and as a condition to the consummation of the Purchase and the other transactions contemplated thereby (the “Transactions”), and to enable the Purchaser to secure more fully the benefits of the Transactions, including the protection and maintenance of the goodwill and confidential information of the Company, the Purchaser has required that the Subject Parties enter into this Agreement;

 

WHEREAS, each of the Subject Parties is entering into this Agreement in order to induce the Purchaser to consummate the Transactions, pursuant to which the Subject Parties will directly or indirectly receive a material benefit; and

 

WHEREAS, the Subject Parties, as the former direct and indirect sole member of the Company, have contributed to the value of the Company and has obtained extensive and valuable knowledge and confidential information concerning the business of the Company.

 

 

 

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in order to induce the Purchaser to consummate the Transactions, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, each of the Subject Parties, jointly and severally, hereby agrees as follows:

 

1. Restriction on Competition.

 

(a) Restriction. Each of the Subject Parties hereby agrees that during the period from the Closing until the five (5) year anniversary of the Closing Date (the “Termination Date,” and such period from the Closing until the Termination Date, the “Restricted Period”), neither of the Subject Parties will, and each will cause its respective Affiliates not to, without the prior written consent of the Purchaser (which may be withheld in its sole discretion), (i) anywhere in the United States and (ii) in any other jurisdictions in which the Covered Parties are engaged, or are actively contemplating to become engaged, in the Business as of the Closing Date or during the Restricted Period (clauses (i) and (ii), collectively, the “Territory”), directly or indirectly engage in the Business (other than through a Covered Party) or own, manage, finance, or control, or participate in the ownership, management, financing, or control of, or become engaged or serve as an officer, director, member, partner, employee, agent, consultant, advisor, or representative of, a business or entity (other than a Covered Party) that engages in the Business (a “Competitor”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, (I) the provision of services by either of the Subject Parties pursuant to that certain Support Services Agreement and that certain Loan Service Agreement between the Purchaser and PCCU (each of which, as defined in the Purchase Agreement) shall not be a violation of this Agreement; (II) the Subject Parties and its Affiliates may own passive investments of no more than two percent (2%) of any class of outstanding equity interests in a Competitor that is publicly traded, so long as the Subject Parties and its Affiliates are not involved in the management or control of such Competitor (“Permitted Ownership”); and (III) the Subject Parties and its Affiliates may lend funds to a Competitor in the ordinary course of business and in accordance with customary terms and conditions, so long as they do not exert control over, or hold an ownership interest in, that Competitor and they do not target Competitors generally.

 

(b) Acknowledgment. Each of the Subject Parties acknowledges and agrees, that (i) the Subject Parties possess knowledge of confidential information of the Company and the Business, (ii) the Subject Parties’ execution of this Agreement is a material inducement to the Purchaser to consummate the Transactions and to realize the goodwill of the Company, for which the Subject Parties and/or their respective Affiliates will receive a substantial direct or indirect financial benefit, and that the Purchaser would not have entered into the Purchase Agreement or consummated the Transactions but for the Subject Parties’ agreements set forth in this Agreement, (iii) it would substantially impair the goodwill of the Company and materially reduce the value of the assets of the Company and cause serious and irreparable injury if the Subject Parties were to use their respective ability and knowledge by engaging in the Business in competition with a Covered Party, and/or to otherwise breach the obligations contained herein, and that the Covered Parties would not have an adequate remedy at law because of the unique nature of the Business, (iv) the Subject Parties and their respective Affiliates have no intention of engaging in the Business (other than through the Covered Parties) during the Restricted Period other than through Permitted Ownership, (v) the relevant public policy aspects of restrictive covenants, covenants not to compete, and non-solicitation provisions have been discussed, and every effort has been made to limit the restrictions placed upon the Subject Parties to those that are reasonable and necessary to protect the Covered Parties’ legitimate interests, (vi) the Covered Parties conduct and intend to conduct the Business everywhere in the Territory and compete with other businesses that are or could be located in any part of the Territory, (vii) the foregoing restrictions on competition are fair and reasonable in type of prohibited activity, geographic area covered, scope, and duration, (viii) the consideration provided to the Subject Parties under this Agreement and the Purchase Agreement is not illusory, and (ix) such provisions do not impose a greater restraint than is necessary to protect the goodwill or other business interests of the Covered Parties.

 

2
 

 

2. No Solicitation; No Disparagement.

 

(a) No Solicitation of Employees and Consultants. Each of the Subject Parties agrees that, during the Restricted Period, neither of the Subject Parties will, and each will not permit its respective Affiliates to, without the prior written consent of the Purchaser (which may be withheld in its sole discretion), either on its own behalf or on behalf of any other Person (other than, if applicable, a Covered Party in the performance of the Subject Parties’ duties on behalf of the Covered Parties), directly or indirectly: (i) hire or engage as an employee, independent contractor, consultant, or otherwise any Covered Personnel (as defined below); (ii) solicit, induce, encourage, or otherwise knowingly cause (or attempt to do any of the foregoing) any Covered Personnel to leave the service (whether as an employee, consultant, or independent contractor) of any Covered Party; or (iii) in any way interfere with or attempt to interfere with the relationship between any Covered Personnel and any Covered Party; provided, however, the Subject Parties and its Affiliates will not be deemed to have violated this Section 2(a) if any Covered Personnel voluntarily and independently solicits an offer of employment from the Subject Parties or their respective Affiliates by responding to a general advertisement or solicitation program conducted by or on behalf of either or both of the Subject Parties or any of their respective Affiliates that is not targeted at such Covered Personnel or Covered Personnel generally, so long as such Covered Personnel are not hired. For purposes of this Agreement, “Covered Personnel” shall mean any Person who is or was an employee, consultant, or independent contractor of either of the Covered Parties, as of the Closing Date, at any time during the Restricted Period, or as of the relevant time of determination.

 

(b) Non-Solicitation of Customers and Suppliers. Each of the Subject Parties agrees that, during the Restricted Period, neither of the Subject Parties will, and each will not permit its respective Affiliates to, without the prior written consent of the Purchaser (which may be withheld in its sole discretion), individually or on behalf of any other Person (other than, if applicable, a Covered Party in the performance of the Subject Parties’ duties on behalf of the Covered Parties), knowingly and for a purpose competitive with a Covered Party as it related to the Business: (i) solicit, induce, encourage, or otherwise knowingly cause (or attempt to do any of the foregoing) any Covered Customer (as defined below) to (A) cease being, or not become, a client or customer of any Covered Party with respect to the Business or (B) reduce the amount of business of such Covered Customer with any Covered Party, or otherwise alter such business relationship in a manner adverse to any Covered Party, in either case, with respect to or relating to the Business; (ii) interfere with or disrupt (or attempt to interfere with or disrupt) the contractual relationship between any Covered Party and any Covered Customer; (iii) divert any business with any Covered Customer relating to the Business from a Covered Party; (iv) solicit for business, provide services to, engage in or do business with, any Covered Customer for products or services that are part of the Business; or (v) interfere with or disrupt (or attempt to interfere with or disrupt), any Person that was a vendor, supplier, distributor, agent, or other service provider of a Covered Party at the time of such interference or disruption. For purposes of this Agreement, a “Covered Customer” shall mean (x) any Person who is or was an actual customer or client (or prospective customer or client with whom a Covered Party actively marketed or made or taken specific action to make a proposal) of a Covered Party, as of the Closing Date, at any time during the Restricted Period, or as of the relevant time of determination, and (y) any Person as to whom a Covered Party provides services to a Subject Party under the Account Servicing Agreement (as defined in the Purchase Agreement).

 

(c) Mutual Non-Disparagement. The Subject Parties and the Covered Parties each agrees that from and after the Closing until the fifth (5th) anniversary of the end of the Restricted Period, neither will, and each will cause its respective Affiliates not to, directly or indirectly engage in any conduct that involves the making or publishing (including through electronic mail distribution or online social media) of any written or oral statements or remarks (including the repetition or distribution of derogatory rumors, allegations, negative reports, or comments) that are disparaging, deleterious, or damaging to the integrity, reputation, or good will of the other or their respective management, officers, employees, independent contractors, or consultants. Notwithstanding the foregoing, subject to Section 3 below, the provisions of this Section 2(c) shall not restrict the Subject Parties or the Covered Parties from providing truthful testimony or information in response to a subpoena or investigation by a Governmental Authority or in connection with any legal action under this Agreement, the Purchase Agreement, or any other Ancillary Document that is asserted in good faith.

 

3
 

 

3. Confidentiality. From and after the Closing Date, each of the Subject Parties will, and each will cause its respective Representatives (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) to, keep confidential and not (except, if applicable, in the performance of the Subject Parties’ duties on behalf of the Covered Parties) directly or indirectly use, disclose, reveal, publish, transfer, or provide access to, any and all Covered Party Information without the prior written consent of the Purchaser (which may be withheld in its sole discretion). As used in this Agreement, “Covered Party Information” means all material and information relating to the Business, including material and information that concerns or relates to such Covered Party’s bidding and proposal, technical, computer hardware or software, administrative, management, operational, data processing, financial, marketing, sales, human resources, business development, planning, and/or other business activities, regardless of whether such material and information is maintained in physical, electronic, or other form, that is: (A) gathered, compiled, generated, produced, or maintained by such Covered Party through its Representatives, or provided to such Covered Party by its suppliers, service providers, or customers; and (B) intended and maintained by such Covered Party or its Representatives, suppliers, service providers, or customers to be kept in confidence. The obligations set forth in this Section 3 will not apply to any Covered Party Information where the Subject Parties can prove that such material or information: (i) is known or available through other lawful sources not bound by a confidentiality agreement with, or other confidentiality obligation to, any Covered Party; (ii) is or becomes publicly known through no violation of this Agreement or other non-disclosure obligation of the Subject Parties or any of its Representatives; (iii) is already in the possession of the Subject Parties at the time of disclosure through lawful sources not bound by a confidentiality agreement or other confidentiality obligation as evidenced by the Subject Parties’ documents and records; or (iv) is required to be disclosed pursuant to an order of any administrative body or court of competent jurisdiction (provided that (A) the applicable Covered Party is given reasonable prior written notice, (B) the Subject Parties cooperates (and causes its Representatives to cooperate) with any reasonable request of any Covered Party to seek to prevent or narrow such disclosure and (C) if after compliance with clauses (A) and (B) such disclosure is still required, the Subject Parties and its Representatives only disclose such portion of the Covered Party Information that is expressly required by such order, as it may be subsequently narrowed).

 

4. Representations and Warranties. Each of the Subject Parties hereby represents and warrants, jointly and severally, to and for the benefit of the Covered Parties as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date, that: (a) each of the Subject Parties has full power and capacity to execute and deliver, and to perform all of such Subject Party’s obligations under, this Agreement; and (b) neither the execution and delivery of this Agreement nor the performance of the Subject Parties’ obligations hereunder will result directly or indirectly in a violation or breach of any agreement or obligation by which either of the Subject Parties is a party or otherwise bound. By entering into this Agreement, each of the Subject Parties certifies and acknowledges that the Subject Parties has carefully read all of the provisions of this Agreement, and that the Subject Parties voluntarily and knowingly enter into this Agreement.

 

5. Remedies. The covenants and undertakings contained in this Agreement relate to matters which are of a special, unique, and extraordinary character and a violation of any of the terms of this Agreement may cause irreparable injury, the amount of which may be impossible to estimate or determine and which cannot be adequately compensated. In the event of any breach or threatened breach of any covenant or obligation contained in this Agreement, the adversely affected party or parties will be entitled to seek the following remedies (in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other remedy at law or in equity or pursuant to the Purchase Agreement or the other Ancillary Documents that may be available, including monetary damages), and a court of competent jurisdiction may award: (i) an injunction, restraining order, or other equitable relief restraining or preventing such breach or threatened breach, without the necessity of posting bond or security, which each party expressly waives; and (ii) recovery of attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in enforcing the party’s rights under this Agreement. Each of the Subject Parties hereby acknowledges and agrees that in the event of any breach of this Agreement, any value attributed or allocated to this Agreement (or any other non-competition agreement with the Subject Parties) under or in connection with the Purchase Agreement shall not be considered a measure of, or a limit on, the damages of the Covered Parties.

 

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6. Survival of Obligations. The expiration of the Restricted Period will not relieve the Subject Parties of any obligation or liability arising from any breach by either of the Subject Parties of this Agreement during the Restricted Period. Each of the Subject Parties further agrees that the time periods during which the covenants contained in this Agreement will be effective will be computed by excluding from such computation any time during which either of the Subject Parties is in violation of any provision of such Sections.

 

7. Miscellaneous.

 

(a) Notices. All notices, consents, waivers, and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given when delivered (i) in person, (ii) by facsimile or other electronic means, with affirmative confirmation of receipt, (iii) one Business Day after being sent, if sent by reputable, nationally recognized overnight courier service or (iv) three (3) Business Days after being mailed, if sent by registered or certified mail, pre-paid and return receipt requested, in each case to the applicable party at the following addresses (or at such other address for a party as shall be specified by like notice):

 

If to the Purchaser after the Closing, to:

 

Northern Lights Acquisition Corp.

10 East 53rd Street, Suite 3001

New York, NY 10022

Attn: John Darwin, Co-Chief Executive Officer

Telephone No.: (615) 554-0044

Email: jdarwin@luminouscap.ca

 

 

with copies to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP

101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite 900

Washington, D.C. 20001

Attn: Andrew M. Tucker, Esq.

Telephone No.: (202) 689-2987

Email: andy.tucker@nelsonmullins.com

 

If to the Company to:

 

SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial

5269 W. 62nd Avenue

Arvada, CO 80003

Attn: Chief Executive Officer

Email: sundie@shfinancial.org

 

 

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

 

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP

101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite 900

Washington, D.C. 20001

Attn: Andrew M. Tucker, Esq.

Telephone No.: (202) 689-2987

Email: andy.tucker@nelsonmullins.com

 

 

5
 

 

If to Holding, to:

 

SHF Holding Co, LLC

6221 Sheridan Boulevard

Arvada, Colorado 80003

Attn: Chief Executive Officer

Email: FaganD@partnercoloradocu.org

 

 

 

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

 

Donald T. Emmi

David Waller

1707 Cole Blvd, Suite 210

Golden, CO 80401

Email: donnie@helegal.com

Email: dave@legalaspirin.com

 

If to PCCU, to:

 

Partner Colorado Credit Union

6221 Sheridan Boulevard

Arvada, Colorado 80003

Attn: Chief Executive Officer

Email: FaganD@partnercoloradocu.org

 

 

 

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

 

Donald T. Emmi

David Waller

1707 Cole Blvd, Suite 210

Golden, CO 80401

Email: donnie@helegal.com

Email: dave@legalaspirin.com

 

 

(b) Integration and Non-Exclusivity. This Agreement, the Purchase Agreement, and the other Ancillary Documents contain the entire agreement between the Subject Parties and the Covered Parties concerning the subject matter hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the rights and remedies of the Covered Parties under this Agreement are not exclusive of or limited by any other rights or remedies which they may have, whether at law, in equity, by contract or otherwise, all of which will be cumulative (and not alternative). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the rights, remedies, obligations, and liabilities of the parties under this Agreement are in addition to their respective rights, remedies, obligations, and liabilities (i) under the laws of unfair competition, misappropriation of trade secrets, or other requirements of statutory or common law, or any applicable rules and regulations and (ii) otherwise conferred by contract, including the Purchase Agreement and any other written agreement between the Subject Parties or their respective Affiliates and any of the Covered Parties. Nothing in the Purchase Agreement will limit any of the obligations, liabilities, rights, or remedies of the Subject Parties or the Covered Parties under this Agreement, nor will any breach of the Purchase Agreement or any other agreement between the Subject Parties or their respective Affiliates and any of the Covered Parties limit or otherwise affect any right or remedy under this Agreement. If any covenant set forth in any other agreement between the Subject Parties or their respective Affiliates and any of the Covered Parties conflicts or is inconsistent with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the more restrictive terms will control.

 

(c) Severability; Reformation. Each provision of this Agreement is separable from every other provision of this Agreement. If any provision of this Agreement is found or held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, in whole or in part, by a court of competent jurisdiction, then (i) such provision will be deemed amended to conform to applicable laws so as to be valid, legal, and enforceable to the fullest possible extent, (ii) the invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability of such provision will not affect the validity, legality, or enforceability of such provision under any other circumstances or in any other jurisdiction, and (iii) the invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability of such provision will not affect the validity, legality, or enforceability of the remainder of such provision or the validity, legality, or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement. The Subject Parties and the Covered Parties will substitute for any invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision a suitable and equitable provision that carries out, so far as may be valid, legal, and enforceable, the intent and purpose of such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision. Without limiting the foregoing, if any court of competent jurisdiction determines that any part hereof is unenforceable because of the duration, geographic area covered, scope of such provision, or otherwise, such court will have the power to reduce the duration, geographic area covered, or scope of such provision, as the case may be, and, in its reduced form, such provision will then be enforceable. Each of the Subject Parties will, at a Covered Party’s request, join such Covered Party in requesting that such court take such action.

 

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(d) Amendment; Waiver. This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any respect, except by a written agreement executed by the Subject Parties, the Purchaser, and a majority of the disinterested independent directors of the Purchaser’s board of directors (or their respective permitted successors or assigns). No waiver will be effective unless it is expressly set forth in a written instrument executed by the waiving party (and if such waiving party is a Covered Party, by a majority of the disinterested independent directors of the Purchaser’s board of directors) and any such waiver will have no effect except in the specific instance in which it is given. Any delay or omission by a party in exercising its rights under this Agreement, or failure to insist upon strict compliance with any term, covenant, or condition of this Agreement will not be deemed a waiver of such term, covenant, condition, or right, nor will any waiver or relinquishment of any right or power under this Agreement at any time or times be deemed a waiver or relinquishment of such right or power at any other time or times.

 

(e) Dispute Resolution. Any dispute, difference, controversy, or claim arising in connection with or related or incidental to, or question occurring under, this Agreement or the subject matter hereof (other than applications for a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction, permanent injunction or other equitable relief or application for enforcement of a resolution under this Section 7(e)) (a “Dispute”) shall be governed by this Section 7(e). A party must, in the first instance, provide written notice of any Disputes to the other parties subject to such Dispute, which notice must provide a reasonably detailed description of the matters subject to the Dispute. Any Dispute that is not resolved within fifteen business days (the “Resolution Period”) after the delivery of such notice may immediately be referred to and finally resolved by arbitration pursuant to the then-existing Expedited Procedures of the Commercial Arbitration Rules (the “AAA Procedures”) of the American Arbitration Association (the “AAA”). Any party involved in such Dispute may submit the Dispute to the AAA to commence the proceedings after the Resolution Period. To the extent that the AAA Procedures and this Agreement are in conflict, the terms of this Agreement shall control. The arbitration shall be conducted by one arbitrator nominated by the AAA promptly (but in any event within five (5) Business Days) after the submission of the Dispute to the AAA and reasonably acceptable to each party subject to the Dispute, which arbitrator shall be a commercial lawyer with substantial experience arbitrating disputes under acquisition agreements. The arbitrator shall accept his or her appointment and begin the arbitration process promptly (but in any event within five (5) Business Days) after his or her nomination and acceptance by the parties subject to the Dispute. The proceedings shall be streamlined and efficient. The arbitrator shall decide the Dispute in accordance with the substantive law of the State of Colorado. Time is of the essence. Each party shall submit a proposal for resolution of the Dispute to the arbitrator within twenty (20) days after confirmation of the appointment of the arbitrator. The arbitrator shall have the power to order any party to do, or to refrain from doing, anything consistent with this Agreement, the Ancillary Documents and applicable Law, including to perform its contractual obligation(s); provided, that the arbitrator shall be limited to ordering pursuant to the foregoing power (and, for the avoidance of doubt, shall order) the relevant party (or parties, as applicable) to comply with only one or the other of the proposals. The arbitrator’s award shall be in writing and shall include a reasonable explanation of the arbitrator’s reason(s) for selecting one or the other proposal. The seat of arbitration shall be in Denver, Colorado. The language of the arbitration shall be English.

 

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(f) Governing Law; Jurisdiction. This Agreement shall be governed by, construed and enforced in accordance with the Laws of the State of Colorado without regard to the conflict of laws principles thereof. Subject to Section 7(e), all Actions arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be heard and determined exclusively in any state or federal court located in Denver, Colorado (or in any appellate courts thereof) (the “Specified Courts”). Subject to Section 7(e), each party hereto hereby (a) submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of any Specified Court for the purpose of any Action arising out of or relating to this Agreement brought by any party hereto, (b) irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert by way of motion, defense or otherwise, in any such Action, any claim that it is not subject personally to the jurisdiction of the above-named courts, that its property is exempt or immune from attachment or execution, that the Action is brought in an inconvenient forum, that the venue of the Action is improper, or that this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby may not be enforced in or by any Specified Court and (c) waives any bond, surety or other security that might be required of any other party with respect thereto. Each party agrees that a final judgment in any Action shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by Law or in equity. Each party irrevocably consents to the service of the summons and complaint and any other process in any other action or proceeding relating to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, on behalf of itself, or its property, by personal delivery of copies of such process to such party at the applicable address set forth in Section 7(a). Nothing in this Section 7(f) shall affect the right of any party to serve legal process in any other manner permitted by Law.

 

(g) WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. EACH OF THE PARTIES HERETO HEREBY WAIVES TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY WITH RESPECT TO ANY ACTION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF, UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY. EACH PARTY HERETO (A) CERTIFIES THAT NO REPRESENTATIVE OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF ANY ACTION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THAT FOREGOING WAIVER AND (B) ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT AND THE OTHER PARTIES HERETO HAVE BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION 7(g). ANY PARTY HERETO MAY FILE AN ORIGINAL COUNTERPART OR A COPY OF THIS SECTION 7(g) WITH ANY COURT AS WRITTEN EVIDENCE OF THE CONSENT OF EACH SUCH PARTY TO THE WAIVER OF ITS RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY.

 

(h) Successors and Assigns; Third Party Beneficiaries. This Agreement will be binding upon, and will inure to the benefit of the parties, and their respective successors and assigns. No Covered Party may assign any or all of its rights under this Agreement, at any time, in whole or in part, to any Person without first obtaining the consent or approval of the Subject Parties (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed). The Subject Parties each agree that the obligations of the Subject Parties under this Agreement are specific to each of them and will not be assigned by the Subject Parties.

 

(i) Disinterested Director Majority Authorized to Act on Behalf of Covered Parties. The parties acknowledge and agree that the majority of the disinterested independent directors of the Purchaser’s board of directors is authorized and shall have the sole right to act on behalf of Purchaser and the other Covered Parties under this Agreement, including the right to enforce the Purchaser’s rights and remedies under this Agreement. Without limiting the foregoing, in the event that any employee, officer, manager or director of either of the Subject Parties serves as a director, officer, employee, or other authorized agent of a Covered Party, such Person shall have no authority, express or implied, to act or make any determination on behalf of a Covered Party in connection with this Agreement or any dispute or Action with respect hereto.

 

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(j) Construction. Each of the Subject Parties acknowledges that it has been represented by counsel, or had the opportunity to be represented by counsel of its choice. Any rule of construction to the effect that ambiguities are to be resolved against the drafting party will not be applied in the construction or interpretation of this Agreement. Neither the drafting history nor the negotiating history of this Agreement will be used or referred to in connection with the construction or interpretation of this Agreement. The headings and subheadings contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement. In this Agreement: (i) the words “include,” “includes” and “including” when used herein shall be deemed in each case to be followed by the words “without limitation”; (ii) the definitions contained herein are applicable to the singular as well as the plural forms of such terms; (iii) whenever required by the context, any pronoun shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine, or neuter forms, and the singular form of nouns, pronouns, and verbs shall include the plural and vice versa; (iv) the words “herein,” “hereto,” and “hereby” and other words of similar import shall be deemed in each case to refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular Section or other subdivision of this Agreement; (v) the word “if” and other words of similar import when used herein shall be deemed in each case to be followed by the phrase “and only if”; (vi) the term “or” means “and/or”; and (vii) any agreement or instrument defined or referred to herein or in any agreement or instrument that is referred to herein means such agreement or instrument as from time to time amended, modified, or supplemented, including by waiver or consent and references to all attachments thereto and instruments incorporated therein.

 

(k) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, and by the different parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when executed shall be deemed to be an original but all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same agreement. A photocopy, faxed, scanned, and/or emailed copy of this Agreement or any signature page to this Agreement, shall have the same validity and enforceability as an originally signed copy.

 

(l) Effectiveness. This Agreement shall be binding upon the Subject Parties upon the Subject Parties’ execution and delivery of this Agreement, but this Agreement shall only become effective upon the consummation of the Transactions. In the event that the Purchase Agreement is validly terminated in accordance with its terms prior to the consummation of the Transactions, this Agreement shall automatically terminate and become null and void, and the parties shall have no obligations hereunder.

 

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank; Signature Pages Follow]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has duly executed and delivered this Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

  The Subject Parties:
     
  PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION
     
  By: /s/ Linda Head
  Name: Linda Head
  Title: Board Chair
     
  SHF HOLDING CO, LLC
     
  By: /s/ Richard Bollig
  Name: Richard Bollig
  Title: Board Chair

 

[Signature Page to the Non-Competition Agreement]

 

 

 

 

Acknowledged and accepted as of the date first written above:

 

The Purchaser:

 

NORTHERN LIGHTS ACQUISITION CORP.  
     
By: /s/ John Darwin  
Name: John Darwin  
Title: Co-Chief Executive Officer  
     
The Company:  
     
SHF, LLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR FINANCIAL  
     
By: /s/ Sundie Seefried  
Name: Sundie Seefried  
Title: Chief Executive Officer and Board Chair  

 

[Signature Page to the Non-Competition Agreement]

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.4

 

SHF HOLDINGS, INC. 2022 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

 

1. Purpose. The purpose of the SHF Holdings, Inc. 2022 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) is to provide a means through which the Company and its Affiliates may attract and retain key personnel and to provide a means whereby directors, officers, employees, consultants and advisors (and prospective directors, officers, employees, consultants and advisors) of the Company and its Affiliates can acquire and maintain an equity interest in the Company, or be paid incentive compensation, which may (but need not) be measured by reference to the value of Common Shares, thereby strengthening their commitment to the welfare of the Company and its Affiliates and aligning their interests with those of the Company’s stockholders.

 

2. Definitions. The following definitions shall be applicable throughout the Plan:

 

(a) “Affiliate” means (i) any person or entity that directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Company and/or (ii) to the extent provided by the Committee, any person or entity in which the Company has a significant interest. The term “control” (including, with correlative meaning, the terms “controlled by” and “under common control with”), as applied to any person or entity, means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such person or entity, whether through the ownership of voting or other securities, by contract or otherwise.

 

(b) “Award” means, individually or collectively, any Incentive Stock Option, Nonqualified Stock Option, Stock Appreciation Right, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Unit, Stock Bonus Award, and Performance Compensation Award granted under the Plan.

 

(c) “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

 

(d) “Business Combination” has the meaning given such term in the definition of “Change in Control.”

 

(e) “Cause” means, in the case of a particular Award, unless the applicable Award agreement states otherwise, (i) the Company or an Affiliate having “cause” to terminate a Participant’s employment or service, as defined in any employment or consulting or similar agreement between the Participant and the Company or an Affiliate in effect at the time of such termination or (ii) in the absence of any such employment or consulting or similar agreement (or the absence of any definition of “Cause” contained therein), (A) gross misconduct by the Participant which results in loss, damage or injury to the Company or any of its Affiliates, its goodwill, business or reputation; (B) the commission or attempted commission of an act of embezzlement, fraud or breach of fiduciary duty which results in loss, damage or injury to the Company or any of its Affiliates, its goodwill, business or reputation; (C) the unauthorized disclosure or misappropriation of any trade secret or confidential information of the Company, any of its Affiliate or any third party who has a business relationship with the Company; (D) the Participant’s conviction of or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony under any state or federal law which materially interferes with such Participant’s ability to perform his or her services for the Company or any of its Affiliates or which results in loss, damage or injury to the Company or any of its Affiliates, its goodwill, business or reputation; (E) the violation (or potential violation) by the Participant, in any material respect, of a non-competition, non-solicitation, non-disclosure or assignment of inventions covenant between the Participant and the Company or any of its Affiliates; (F) the Participant’s failure to perform the Participant’s assigned duties and responsibilities to the reasonable satisfaction of the Company which failure continues, in the reasonable judgment of the Company, after written notice given to the Participant by the Company; or (G) the use of controlled substances, illicit drugs, alcohol or other substances or behavior which interferes with the Participant’s ability to perform his or her services for the Company or any of its Affiliates or which otherwise results in loss, damage or injury to the Company, its goodwill, business or reputation. Any determination of whether Cause exists shall be made by the Committee in its sole discretion.

 

 
 

 

(f) “Change in Control” shall, in the case of a particular Award, unless the applicable Award agreement states otherwise or contains a different definition of “Change in Control,” be deemed to occur upon:

 

(i) Any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company;

 

(ii) Any “Person” as such term is used in Section 13(d) and Section 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) becomes, directly or indirectly, the “beneficial owner” as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act of securities of the Company that represent more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding voting securities (the “Outstanding Company Voting Securities”); provided, however, that for purposes of this Section 2(f)(ii), the following acquisitions shall not constitute a Change in Control: (I) any acquisition directly from the Company principally for bona fide equity financing purposes, (II) any acquisition by the Company, (III) any acquisition by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any Affiliate, (IV) any acquisition by any corporation pursuant to a transaction that complies with Sections 2(f)(iv)(A) and 2(f)(iv)(B), (V) any acquisition involving beneficial ownership of less than 50% of the then-outstanding Common Shares (the “Outstanding Company Common Shares”) or the Outstanding Company Voting Securities that is determined by the Board, based on review of public disclosure by the acquiring Person with respect to its passive investment intent, not to have a purpose or effect of changing or influencing the control of the Company; provided, however, that for purposes of this clause (V), any such acquisition in connection with (x) an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents or (y) any “Business Combination” (as defined below) shall be presumed to be for the purpose or with the effect of changing or influencing the control of the Company;

 

(iii) During any period of not more than two (2) consecutive years, individuals who constitute the Board as of the beginning of the period (the “Incumbent Directors”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board, provided that any person becoming a director subsequent to the beginning of such period, whose election or nomination for election was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the Incumbent Directors then on the Board (either by a specific vote or by approval of the proxy statement of the Company in which such person is named as a nominee for director, without written objection to such nomination) will be an Incumbent Director; provided, however, that no individual initially elected or nominated as a director of the Company as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to directors or as a result of any other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies by or on behalf of any person other than the Board will be deemed to be an Incumbent Director;

 

(iv) Consummation of a merger, amalgamation or consolidation (a “Business Combination”) of the Company with any other corporation, unless, following such Business Combination, (A) all or substantially all of the individuals and entities that were the beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Common Shares and the Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such Business Combination beneficially own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the then-outstanding shares of common stock (or, for a non-corporate entity, equivalent securities) and the combined voting power of the then-outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (or, for a non-corporate entity, equivalent governing body), as the case may be, of the entity resulting from such Business Combination (including, without limitation, an entity that, as a result of such transaction, owns the Company or all or substantially all of the Company’s assets either directly or through one or more subsidiaries) in substantially the same proportions as their ownership immediately prior to such Business Combination of the Outstanding Company Common Shares and the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, as the case may be, and (B) at least a majority of the members of the board of directors (or, for a non-corporate entity, equivalent governing body) of the entity resulting from such Business Combination were Incumbent Directors at the time of the execution of the initial agreement or of the action of the Board providing for such Business Combination;

 

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(v) Stockholder approval of a plan of complete liquidation of the Company.

 

(g) “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any successor thereto. Reference in the Plan to any section of the Code shall be deemed to include any regulations or other interpretative guidance under such section, and any amendments or successor provisions to such section, regulations or guidance.

 

(h) “Committee” means a committee of at least two people as the Board may appoint to administer the Plan or, if no such committee has been appointed by the Board, the Board.

 

(i) “Common Shares” means shares of the Company’s Class A common stock (and any stock or other securities into which such ordinary shares may be converted or into which they may be exchanged).

 

(j) “Company” means SHF Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

 

 

(k) “Date of Grant” means the date on which the granting of an Award is authorized, or such other date as may be specified in such authorization.

 

(l) “Effective Date” means the date means the date on which the Plan is approved by the stockholders of the Company.

 

(m) “Eligible Director” means a person who is a “non-employee director” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act.

 

(n) “Eligible Person” with respect to an Award denominated in Common Shares, means any (i) individual employed by the Company or an Affiliate; provided, however, that no such employee covered by a collective bargaining agreement shall be an Eligible Person unless and to the extent that such eligibility is set forth in such collective bargaining agreement which includes rules regarding equity entitlement or in an agreement or instrument relating thereto; (ii) director of the Company or an Affiliate; (iii) consultant or advisor to the Company or an Affiliate; provided that if the Securities Act applies such persons must be eligible to be offered securities registrable on Form S-8 under the Securities Act; or (iv) prospective employees, directors, officers, consultants or advisors who have accepted offers of employment or consultancy from the Company or its Affiliates (and would satisfy the provisions of clauses (i) through (iii) above once he or she begins employment with or begins providing services to the Company or its Affiliates).

 

(o) “Exchange Act” has the meaning given such term in the definition of “Change in Control,” and any reference in the Plan to any section of (or rule promulgated under) the Exchange Act shall be deemed to include any rules, regulations or other interpretative guidance under such section or rule, and any amendments or successor provisions to such section, rules, regulations or guidance.

 

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(p) “Exercise Price” has the meaning given such term in Section 7(b) of the Plan.

 

(q) “Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Shares determined as follows:

 

(i) If the Common Shares are listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system will be the closing sales price for such shares (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system on the day of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Committee deems reliable;

 

(ii) If the Common Shares are regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, the Fair Market Value of a Common Share will be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Shares on the day of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Committee deems reliable; or

 

(iii) In the absence of an established market for the Common Shares, the Fair Market Value will be determined in good faith by the Committee.

 

(r) “Good Reason” means, if applicable to any Participant in the case of a particular Award, as defined in the Participant’s employment agreement or the applicable Award agreement.

 

(s) “Immediate Family Members” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 15(b).

 

(t) “Incentive Stock Option” means an Option that is designated by the Committee as an incentive stock option as described in Section 422 of the Code and otherwise meets the requirements set forth in the Plan.

 

(u) “Indemnifiable Person” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4(e) of the Plan.

 

(v) Mature Shares” means Common Shares owned by a Participant that are not subject to any pledge or security interest and that have been either previously acquired by the Participant on the open market or meet such other requirements, if any, as the Committee may determine are necessary in order to avoid an accounting earnings charge on account of the use of such shares to pay the Exercise Price or satisfy a tax or deduction obligation of the Participant.

 

(w) “Nonqualified Stock Option” means an Option that is not designated by the Committee as an Incentive Stock Option.

 

(x) “Option” means an Award granted under Section 7 of the Plan.

 

(y) “Option Period” has the meaning given such term in Section 7(c) of the Plan.

 

(z) “Outstanding Company Common Shares” has the meaning given such term in the definition of “Change in Control.”

 

(aa) “Outstanding Company Voting Securities” has the meaning given such term in the definition of “Change in Control.”

 

(bb) “Participant” means an Eligible Person who has been selected by the Committee to participate in the Plan and to receive an Award pursuant to Section 6 of the Plan.

 

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(cc) “Performance Compensation Award” shall mean any Award designated by the Committee as a Performance Compensation Award pursuant to Section 11 of the Plan.

 

(dd) “Performance Criteria” shall mean the criterion or criteria that the Committee shall select for purposes of establishing the Performance Goal(s) for a Performance Period with respect to any Performance Compensation Award under the Plan.

 

(ee) “Performance Formula” shall mean, for a Performance Period, the one or more formulae applied against the relevant Performance Goal to determine, with regard to the Performance Compensation Award of a particular Participant, whether all, some portion but less than all, or none of the Performance Compensation Award has been earned for the Performance Period.

 

(ff) “Performance Goals” shall mean, for a Performance Period, the one or more goals established by the Committee for the Performance Period based upon the Performance Criteria.

 

(gg) “Performance Period” shall mean the one or more periods of time, as the Committee may select, over which the attainment of one or more Performance Goals will be measured for the purpose of determining a Participant’s right to, and the payment of, a Performance Compensation Award.

 

(hh) “Permitted Transferee” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 15(b) of the Plan.

 

(ii) “Person” has the meaning given such term in the definition of “Change in Control.”

 

(jj) “Plan” means this SHF Holdings, Inc. 2022 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended from time to time.

 

(kk) “Qualifying Termination” means, except as otherwise provided by the Committee as set forth in the Award, the occurrence of either a termination of a Participant’s employment by the Company without Cause or for Good Reason, in either case, occurring on or within the 12-month period (or such other period specified in the applicable Award Agreement) following the consummation of a Change in Control.

 

(ll) “Restricted Period” means the period of time determined by the Committee during which an Award is subject to restrictions or, as applicable, the period of time within which performance is measured for purposes of determining whether an Award has been earned.

 

(mm) “Restricted Stock Unit” means an unfunded and unsecured promise to deliver Common Shares, cash, other securities or other property, subject to certain performance or time-based restrictions (including, without limitation, a requirement that the Participant remain continuously employed or provide continuous services for a specified period of time), granted under Section 9 of the Plan.

 

(nn) “Restricted Stock” means Common Shares, subject to certain specified performance or time-based restrictions (including, without limitation, a requirement that the Participant remain continuously employed or provide continuous services for a specified period of time), granted under Section 9 of the Plan.

 

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(oo) “Retirement” means, in the case of a particular Award, the definition set forth in the applicable Award Agreement.

 

(pp) “SAR Period” has the meaning given such term in Section 8(b) of the Plan.

 

(qq) “Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any successor thereto. Reference in the Plan to any section of the Securities Act shall be deemed to include any rules, regulations or other interpretative guidance under such section, and any amendments or successor provisions to such section, rules, regulations or guidance.

 

(rr) “Stock Appreciation Right” or SARmeans an Award granted under Section 8 of the Plan.

 

(ss) “Stock Bonus Award” means an Award granted under Section 10 of the Plan.

 

(tt) “Strike Price” means, except as otherwise provided by the Committee in the case of Substitute Awards, (i) in the case of a SAR granted in tandem with an Option, the Exercise Price of the related Option, or (ii) in the case of a SAR granted independent of an Option, the Fair Market Value on the Date of Grant.

 

(uu) “Subsidiary” means, with respect to any specified Person:

 

(i) any corporation, association or other business entity of which more than 50% of the total voting power of shares (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency and after giving effect to any voting agreement or stockholders’ agreement that effectively transfers voting power) is at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by that Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that Person (or a combination thereof); and

 

(ii) any partnership (or any comparable foreign entity (a) the sole general partner (or functional equivalent thereof) or the managing general partner of which is such Person or Subsidiary of such Person or (b) the only general partners (or functional equivalents thereof) of which are that Person or one or more Subsidiaries of that Person (or any combination thereof).

 

(vv) “Substitute Award” has the meaning given such term in Section 5(e).

 

3. Effective Date; Duration. The Plan shall be effective as of the Effective Date. The expiration date of the Plan, on and after which date no Awards may be granted hereunder, shall be the tenth anniversary of the Effective Date; provided, however, that such expiration shall not affect Awards then outstanding, and the terms and conditions of the Plan shall continue to apply to such Awards.

 

4. Administration.

 

(a) The Committee shall administer the Plan. To the extent required to comply with the applicable provisions of Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act (if the Board is not acting as the Committee under the Plan), it is intended that each member of the Committee shall, at the time he or she takes any action with respect to an Award under the Plan, be an Eligible Director. However, the fact that a Committee member shall fail to qualify as an Eligible Director shall not invalidate any Award granted by the Committee that is otherwise validly granted under the Plan.

 

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(b) Subject to the provisions of the Plan and applicable law, the Committee shall have the sole and plenary authority, in addition to other express powers and authorizations conferred on the Committee by the Plan or by the Board, to: (i) designate Participants; (ii) determine the type or types of Awards to be granted to a Participant; (iii) determine the number of Common Shares to be covered by, or with respect to which payments, rights, or other matters are to be calculated in connection with, Awards; (iv) determine the form of Award agreement and the terms and conditions of any Award; (v) determine whether, to what extent, and under what circumstances Awards may be settled or exercised in cash, Common Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property, or canceled, forfeited, or suspended and the method or methods by which Awards may be settled, exercised, canceled, forfeited, or suspended; (vi) determine whether, to what extent, and under what circumstances the delivery of cash, Common Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property and other amounts payable with respect to an Award shall be deferred either automatically or at the election of the Participant or of the Committee; (vii) interpret, administer, reconcile any inconsistency in, correct any defect in and/or supply any omission in the Plan and any instrument or agreement relating to, or Award granted under, the Plan; (viii) establish, amend, suspend, or waive any rules and regulations and appoint such agents as the Committee shall deem appropriate for the proper administration of the Plan; (ix) accelerate the vesting or exercisability of, payment for or lapse of restrictions on, Awards, including, but not limited to, upon a Qualifying Termination; and (x) make any other determination and take any other action that the Committee deems necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan.

 

(c) The Committee may delegate to one or more officers of the Company or any Affiliate the authority to act on behalf of the Committee with respect to any matter, right, obligation, or election that is the responsibility of or that is allocated to the Committee herein, and that may be so delegated as a matter of law, except for grants of Awards to persons subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act.

 

(d) Unless otherwise expressly provided in the Plan, all designations, determinations, interpretations, and other decisions under or with respect to the Plan or any Award or any documents evidencing Awards granted pursuant to the Plan shall be within the sole discretion of the Committee, may be made at any time and shall be final, conclusive and binding upon all persons or entities, including, without limitation, the Company, any Affiliate, any Participant, any holder or beneficiary of any Award, and any stockholder of the Company.

 

(e) No member of the Board, the Committee, delegate of the Committee or any employee or agent of the Company (each such person, an “Indemnifiable Person”) shall be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken or any determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan or any Award hereunder. Each Indemnifiable Person shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against and from any loss, cost, liability, or expense (including attorneys’ fees) that may be imposed upon or incurred by such Indemnifiable Person in connection with or resulting from any action, suit or proceeding to which such Indemnifiable Person may be a party or in which such Indemnifiable Person may be involved by reason of any action taken or omitted to be taken under the Plan or any Award agreement and against and from any and all amounts paid by such Indemnifiable Person with the Company’s approval, in settlement thereof, or paid by such Indemnifiable Person in satisfaction of any judgment in any such action, suit or proceeding against such Indemnifiable Person, provided that the Company shall have the right, at its own expense, to assume and defend any such action, suit or proceeding and once the Company gives notice of its intent to assume the defense, the Company shall have sole control over such defense with counsel of the Company’s choice. The foregoing right of indemnification shall not be available to an Indemnifiable Person to the extent that a final judgment or other final adjudication (in either case not subject to further appeal) binding upon such Indemnifiable Person determines that the acts or omissions of such Indemnifiable Person giving rise to the indemnification claim resulted from such Indemnifiable Person’s bad faith, fraud or willful criminal act or omission or that such right of indemnification is otherwise prohibited by law or by the Company’s Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws. The foregoing right of indemnification shall not be exclusive of any other rights of indemnification to which such Indemnifiable Persons may be entitled under the Company’s Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws, as a matter of law, or otherwise, or any other power that the Company may have to indemnify such Indemnifiable Persons or hold them harmless.

 

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(f) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Plan, the Board may, in its sole discretion, at any time and from time to time, grant Awards and administer the Plan with respect to such Awards. In any such case, the Board shall have all the authority granted to the Committee under the Plan.

 

5. Grant of Awards; Shares Subject to the Plan; Limitations.

 

(a) The Committee may, from time to time, grant Options, Stock Appreciation Rights, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, Stock Bonus Awards and/or Performance Compensation Awards to one or more Eligible Persons.

 

(b) Subject to Section 12 of the Plan, Awards granted under the Plan shall be subject to the following limitations: (i) the Committee is authorized to deliver under the Plan an aggregate of 4,037,147 Common Shares; provided, that total number of Common Shares that will be reserved, and that may be issued, under the Plan will automatically increase on the first trading day of each calendar year, beginning with calendar year 2022, by a number of Common Shares equal to five percent (5%) of the total outstanding Common Shares on the last day of the prior calendar year (subject to a maximum annual increase of 1,000,000 Common Shares), and (ii) the maximum number of Common Shares that may be granted under the Plan during any single fiscal year to any Participant who is a non-employee director, when taken together with any cash fees paid to such non-employee director during such year in respect of his or her service as a non-employee director (including service as a member or chair of any committee of the Board), shall not exceed $750,000 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 non-employee directors who are considered independent (under the rules of The NASDAQ Stock Market or other securities exchange on which the Common Shares are traded) may make exceptions to this limit for a non-executive chair of the Board, if any, in which case the non-employee Director receiving such additional compensation may not participate in the decision to award such compensation. Notwithstanding the automatic annual increase set forth in (i) above, the Board may act prior to January 1st of a given year to provide that there will be no such increase in the share reserve for such year or that the increase in the share reserve for such year will be a lesser number of Common Shares than would otherwise occur pursuant to the stipulated percentage.

 

(c) In the event that (i) any Option or other Award granted hereunder is exercised through the tendering of Common Shares (either actually or by attestation) or by the withholding of Common Shares by the Company, or (ii) tax or deduction liabilities arising from such Option or other Award are satisfied by the tendering of Common Shares (either actually or by attestation) or by the withholding of Common Shares by the Company, then in each such case the Common Shares so tendered or withheld shall be added to the Common Shares available for grant under the Plan on a one-for-one basis. Shares underlying Awards under this Plan that are forfeited, cancelled, expire unexercised, or are settled in cash are available again for Awards under the Plan.

 

(d) Common Shares delivered by the Company in settlement of Awards may be authorized and unissued shares, shares held in the treasury of the Company, shares purchased on the open market or by private purchase, or a combination of the foregoing.

 

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(e) Awards may, in the sole discretion of the Committee, be granted under the Plan in assumption of, or in substitution for, outstanding awards previously granted by an entity acquired by the Company or with which the Company combines (“Substitute Awards”). The number of Common Shares underlying any Substitute Awards shall not be counted against the aggregate number of Common Shares available for Awards under the Plan.

 

6. Eligibility. Participation shall be limited to Eligible Persons who have entered into an Award agreement or who have received written notification from the Committee, or from a person designated by the Committee, that they have been selected to participate in the Plan.

 

7. Options.

 

(a) Generally. Each Option granted under the Plan shall be evidenced by an Award agreement (whether in paper or electronic medium (including email or the posting on a web site maintained by the Company or a third party under contract with the Company)). Each Option so granted shall be subject to the conditions set forth in this Section 7, and to such other conditions not inconsistent with the Plan as may be reflected in the applicable Award agreement. All Options granted under the Plan shall be Nonqualified Stock Options unless the applicable Award agreement expressly states that the Option is intended to be an Incentive Stock Option. The maximum aggregate number of Common Shares that may be issued through the exercise of Incentive Stock Options granted under the Plan is 4,037,147 Common Shares. Incentive Stock Options shall be granted only to Eligible Persons who are employees of the Company and its Affiliates, and no Incentive Stock Option shall be granted to any Eligible Person who is ineligible to receive an Incentive Stock Option under the Code. No Option shall be treated as an Incentive Stock Option unless the Plan has been approved by the stockholders of the Company in a manner intended to comply with the stockholder approval requirements of Section 422(b)(1) of the Code; provided that any Option intended to be an Incentive Stock Option shall not fail to be effective solely on account of a failure to obtain such approval, but rather such Option shall be treated as a Nonqualified Stock Option unless and until such approval is obtained. In the case of an Incentive Stock Option, the terms and conditions of such grant shall be subject to and comply with such rules as may be prescribed by Section 422 of the Code. If for any reason an Option intended to be an Incentive Stock Option (or any portion thereof) shall not qualify as an Incentive Stock Option, then, to the extent of such non-qualification, such Option or portion thereof shall be regarded as a Nonqualified Stock Option appropriately granted under the Plan.

 

(b) Exercise Price. Except with respect to Substitute Awards, the exercise price (“Exercise Price”) per Common Share for each Option shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of such share determined as of the Date of Grant; provided, however, that in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to an employee who, at the time of the grant of such Option, owns shares representing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of shares of the Company or any related corporation (as determined in accordance with Treasury Regulation Section 1.422-2(f)), the Exercise Price per share shall not be less than 110% of the Fair Market Value per share on the Date of Grant and provided further, that, notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, the Exercise Price shall not be less than the par value per Common Share.

 

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(c) Vesting and Expiration. Options shall vest and become exercisable in such manner and on such date or dates determined by the Committee and shall expire after such period, not to exceed ten years, as may be determined by the Committee (the “Option Period”); provided, however, that the Option Period shall not exceed five years from the Date of Grant in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to a Participant who on the Date of Grant owns shares representing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of shares of the Company or any related corporation (as determined in accordance with Treasury Regulation Section 1.422-2(f)); provided, further, that notwithstanding any vesting dates set by the Committee, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, accelerate the exercisability of any Option, which acceleration shall not affect the terms and conditions of such Option other than with respect to exercisability. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award agreement: (i) the unvested portion of an Option shall expire upon termination of employment or service of the Participant granted the Option, and the vested portion of such Option shall remain exercisable for (A) one year following termination of employment or service by reason of such Participant’s death or disability (as determined by the Committee), but not later than the expiration of the Option Period or (B) 90 days following termination of employment or service for any reason other than such Participant’s death or disability, and other than such Participant’s termination of employment or service for Cause, but not later than the expiration of the Option Period; and (ii) both the unvested and the vested portion of an Option shall expire upon the termination of the Participant’s employment or service by the Company for Cause. If the Option would expire at a time when the exercise of the Option would violate applicable securities laws, the expiration date applicable to the Option will be automatically extended to a date that is thirty (30) calendar days following the date such exercise would no longer violate applicable securities laws (so long as such extension shall not violate Section 409A of the Code); provided, that in no event shall such expiration date be extended beyond the expiration of the Option Period.

 

(d) Method of Exercise and Form of Payment. No Common Shares shall be delivered pursuant to any exercise of an Option until payment in full of the Exercise Price therefor is received by the Company and the Participant has paid to the Company an amount equal to any taxes required to be withheld or paid. Options that have become exercisable may be exercised by delivery of written or electronic notice of exercise to the Company in accordance with the terms of the Option accompanied by payment of the Exercise Price. The Exercise Price shall be payable (i) in cash, check, cash equivalent and/or Common Shares valued at the fair market value at the time the Option is exercised (including, pursuant to procedures approved by the Committee, by means of attestation of ownership of a sufficient number of Common Shares in lieu of actual delivery of such shares to the Company); provided that such Common Shares are not subject to any pledge or other security interest and are Mature Shares and; (ii) by such other method as the Committee may permit in accordance with applicable law, in its sole discretion, on a case by case basis, including without limitation: (A) in other property having a fair market value on the date of exercise equal to the Exercise Price or (B) if there is a public market for the Common Shares at such time, by means of a broker-assisted “cashless exercise” pursuant to which the Company is delivered a copy of irrevocable instructions to a stockbroker to sell the Common Shares otherwise deliverable upon the exercise of the Option and to deliver promptly to the Company an amount equal to the Exercise Price or (C) by a “net exercise” method whereby the Company withholds from the delivery of the Common Shares for which the Option was exercised that number of Common Shares having a fair market value equal to the aggregate Exercise Price for the Common Shares for which the Option was exercised. No fractional Common Shares shall be issued or delivered pursuant to the Plan or any Award, and the Committee shall determine whether cash, other securities or other property shall be paid or transferred in lieu of any fractional Common Shares, or whether such fractional Common Shares or any rights thereto shall be canceled, terminated or otherwise eliminated.

 

(e) Notification upon Disqualifying Disposition of an Incentive Stock Option. Each Participant awarded an Incentive Stock Option under the Plan shall notify the Company in writing immediately after the date he makes a disqualifying disposition of any Common Shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of such Incentive Stock Option. A disqualifying disposition is any disposition (including, without limitation, any sale) of such Common Shares before the later of (A) two years after the Date of Grant of the Incentive Stock Option or (B) one year after the date of exercise of the Incentive Stock Option. The Company may, if determined by the Committee and in accordance with procedures established by the Committee, retain possession of any Common Shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an Incentive Stock Option as agent for the applicable Participant until the end of the period described in the preceding sentence.

 

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(f) Compliance with Laws, etc. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall a Participant be permitted to exercise an Option in a manner that the Committee determines would violate the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, if applicable, or any other applicable law or the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission or the applicable rules and regulations of any securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system on which the securities of the Company are listed or traded.

 

8. Stock Appreciation Rights.

 

(a) Generally. Each SAR granted under the Plan shall be evidenced by an Award agreement (whether in paper or electronic medium (including email or the posting on a web site maintained by the Company or a third party under contract with the Company)). Each SAR so granted shall be subject to the conditions set forth in this Section 8, and to such other conditions not inconsistent with the Plan as may be reflected in the applicable Award agreement. Any Option granted under the Plan may include tandem SARs. The Committee also may award SARs to Eligible Persons independent of any Option.

 

(b) Exercise Price. The Exercise Price per Common Share for each SAR shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of such share determined as of the Date of Grant.

 

(c) Vesting and Expiration. A SAR granted in connection with an Option shall become exercisable and shall expire according to the same vesting schedule and expiration provisions as the corresponding Option. A SAR granted independent of an Option shall vest and become exercisable and shall expire in such manner and on such date or dates determined by the Committee and shall expire after such period, not to exceed ten years, as may be determined by the Committee (the “SAR Period”); provided, however, that notwithstanding any vesting dates set by the Committee, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, accelerate the exercisability of any SAR, which acceleration shall not affect the terms and conditions of such SAR other than with respect to exercisability. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award agreement: (i) the unvested portion of a SAR shall expire upon termination of employment or service of the Participant granted the SAR, and the vested portion of such SAR shall remain exercisable for (A) one year following termination of employment or service by reason of such Participant’s death or disability (as determined by the Committee), but not later than the expiration of the SAR Period or (B) 90 days following termination of employment or service for any reason other than such Participant’s death or disability, and other than such Participant’s termination of employment or service for Cause, but not later than the expiration of the SAR Period; and (ii) both the unvested and the vested portion of a SAR shall expire upon the termination of the Participant’s employment or service by the Company for Cause. If the SAR would expire at a time when the exercise of the SAR would violate applicable securities laws, the expiration date applicable to the SAR will be automatically extended to a date that is thirty (30) calendar days following the date such exercise would no longer violate applicable securities laws (so long as such extension shall not violate Section 409A of the Code); provided, that in no event shall such expiration date be extended beyond the expiration of the SAR Period.

 

(d) Method of Exercise. SARs that have become exercisable may be exercised by delivery of written or electronic notice of exercise to the Company in accordance with the terms of the Award, specifying the number of SARs to be exercised and the date on which such SARs were awarded. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if on the last day of the Option Period (or in the case of a SAR independent of an option, the SAR Period), the fair market value exceeds the Strike Price, the Participant has not exercised the SAR or the corresponding Option (if applicable), and neither the SAR nor the corresponding Option (if applicable) has expired, such SAR shall be deemed to have been exercised by the Participant on such last day and the Company shall make the appropriate payment therefor.

 

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(e) Payment. Upon the exercise of a SAR, the Company shall pay to the Participant an amount equal to the number of shares subject to the SAR that are being exercised multiplied by the excess, if any, of the fair market value of one Common Share on the exercise date over the Strike Price, less an amount equal to any taxes required to be withheld or paid. The Company shall pay such amount in cash, in Common Shares valued at fair market value, or any combination thereof, as determined by the Committee. No fractional Common Shares shall be issued or delivered pursuant to the Plan or any Award, and the Committee shall determine whether cash, other securities or other property shall be paid or transferred in lieu of any fractional Common Shares, or whether such fractional Common Shares or any rights thereto shall be canceled, terminated or otherwise eliminated.

 

9. Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units.

 

(a) Generally. Each grant of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units shall be evidenced by an Award agreement (whether in paper or electronic medium (including email or the posting on a web site maintained by the Company or a third party under contract with the Company)). Each such grant shall be subject to the conditions set forth in this Section 9, and to such other conditions not inconsistent with the Plan as may be reflected in the applicable Award agreement.

 

(b) Restricted Accounts; Escrow or Similar Arrangement. Upon the grant of Restricted Stock, a book entry in a restricted account shall be established in the Participant’s name at the Company’s transfer agent and, if the Committee determines that the Restricted Stock shall be held by the Company or in escrow rather than held in such restricted account pending the release of the applicable restrictions, the Committee may require the Participant to additionally execute and deliver to the Company (i) an escrow agreement satisfactory to the Committee, if applicable, and (ii) the appropriate share power (endorsed in blank) with respect to the Restricted Stock covered by such agreement. If a Participant shall fail to execute an agreement evidencing an Award of Restricted Stock and, if applicable, an escrow agreement and blank share power within the amount of time specified by the Committee, the Award shall be null and void. Subject to the restrictions set forth in this Section 9 and the applicable Award agreement, the Participant generally shall have the rights and privileges of a stockholder as to such Restricted Stock, including without limitation the right to vote such Restricted Stock and the right to receive dividends, if applicable. To the extent shares of Restricted Stock are forfeited, any share certificates issued to the Participant evidencing such shares shall be returned to the Company, and all rights of the Participant to such shares and as a stockholder with respect thereto shall terminate without further obligation on the part of the Company.

 

(c) Vesting; Acceleration of Lapse of Restrictions. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award agreement the unvested portion of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units shall terminate and be forfeited upon termination of employment or service of the Participant granted the applicable Award.

 

(d) Delivery of Restricted Stock and Settlement of Restricted Stock Units.

 

(i) Upon the expiration of the Restricted Period with respect to any shares of Restricted Stock, the restrictions set forth in the applicable Award agreement shall be of no further force or effect with respect to such shares, except as set forth in the applicable Award agreement. If an escrow arrangement is used, upon such expiration, the Company shall deliver to the Participant, or his beneficiary, without charge, the share certificate evidencing the shares of Restricted Stock that have not then been forfeited and with respect to which the Restricted Period has expired (rounded down to the nearest full share). Dividends, if any, that may have been withheld by the Committee and attributable to any particular share of Restricted Stock shall be distributed to the Committee and attributable to any particular share of Restricted Stock shall be distributed to the Participant in cash or, at the sole discretion of the Committee, in Common Shares having a fair market value equal to the amount of such dividends, upon the release of restrictions on such share and, if such share is forfeited, the Participant shall have no right to such dividends (except as otherwise set forth by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement).

 

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(ii) Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award agreement, upon the expiration of the Restricted Period with respect to any outstanding Restricted Stock Units, the Company shall deliver to the Participant, or his beneficiary, without charge, one Common Share for each such outstanding Restricted Stock Unit; provided, however, that the Committee may, in its sole discretion, elect to (i) pay cash or part cash and part Common Share in lieu of delivering only Common Shares in respect of such Restricted Stock Units or (ii) defer the delivery of Common Shares (or cash or part Common Shares and part cash, as the case may be) beyond the expiration of the Restricted Period if such delivery would result in a violation of applicable law until such time as is no longer the case. If a cash payment is made in lieu of delivering Common Shares, the amount of such payment shall be equal to the fair market value of the Common Shares as of the date on which the Restricted Period lapsed with respect to such Restricted Stock Units, less an amount equal to any taxes required to be withheld or paid.

 

10. Stock Bonus Awards. The Committee may issue unrestricted Common Shares, or other Awards denominated in Common Shares, under the Plan to Eligible Persons, either alone or in tandem with other awards, in such amounts as the Committee shall from time to time in its sole discretion determine. Each Stock Bonus Award granted under the Plan shall be evidenced by an Award agreement (whether in paper or electronic medium (including email or the posting on a web site maintained by the Company or a third party under contract with the Company)). Each Stock Bonus Award so granted shall be subject to such conditions not inconsistent with the Plan as may be reflected in the applicable Award agreement.

 

11. Performance Compensation Awards.

 

(a) Generally. The Committee shall have the authority, at the time of grant of any Award described in Sections 7 through 10 of the Plan, to designate such Award as a Performance Compensation Award. The Committee shall have the authority to make an award of a cash bonus to any Participant and designate such Award as a Performance Compensation Award. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, all Performance Compensation Awards shall be evidenced by an Award agreement.

 

(b) Discretion of Committee with Respect to Performance Compensation Awards. The Committee shall have the discretion to establish the terms, conditions and restrictions of any Performance Compensation Award. With regard to a particular Performance Period, the Committee shall have sole discretion to select the length of such Performance Period, the type(s) of Performance Compensation Awards to be issued, the Performance Criteria that will be used to establish the Performance Goal (s), the kind(s) and/or level(s) of the Performance Goals(s) that is (are) to apply and the Performance Formula.

 

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(c) Performance Criteria. The Committee may establish Performance Criteria that will be used to establish the Performance Goal(s) for Performance Compensation Awards which may be based on the attainment of specific levels of performance of the Company (and/or one or more Affiliates, divisions, business segments or operational units, or any combination of the foregoing) and may include, without limitation, any of the following: (i) net earnings or net income (before or after taxes); (ii) basic or diluted earnings per share (before or after taxes); (iii) revenue or revenue growth (measured on a net or gross basis); (iv) gross profit or gross profit growth; (v) operating profit (before or after taxes); (vi) return measures (including, but not limited to, return on assets, capital, invested capital, equity, or sales); (vii) cash flow (including, but not limited to, operating cash flow, free cash flow, net cash provided by operations and cash flow return on capital); (viii) financing and other capital raising transactions (including, but not limited to, sales of the Company’s equity or debt securities); (ix) earnings before or after taxes, interest, depreciation and/or amortization; (x) gross or operating margins; (xi) productivity ratios; (xii) share price (including, but not limited to, growth measures and total stockholder return); (xiii) expense targets; (xiv) margins; (xv) productivity and operating efficiencies; (xvi) customer satisfaction; (xvii) customer growth; (xviii) working capital targets; (xix) measures of economic value added; (xx) inventory control; (xxi) enterprise value; (xxii) sales; (xxiii) debt levels and net debt; (xxiv) combined ratio; (xxv) timely launch of new facilities; (xxvi) client retention; (xxvii) employee retention; (xxviii) timely completion of rollouts of new products and services; (xxix) cost targets; (xxx) reductions and savings; (xxxi) productivity and efficiencies; (xxxii) strategic partnerships or transactions; and (xxxiii) personal targets, goals or completion of projects. Any one or more of the Performance Criteria may be used on an absolute or relative basis to measure the performance of the Company and/or one or more Affiliates as a whole or any business unit(s) of the Company and/or one or more Affiliates or any combination thereof, as the Committee may deem appropriate, or any of the above Performance Criteria may be compared to the performance of a selected group of comparison or peer companies, or a published or special index that the Committee, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate, or as compared to various stock market indices. The Committee also has the authority to provide for accelerated vesting of any Award based on the achievement of Performance Goals pursuant to the Performance Criteria specified in this paragraph. Any 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.

 

(d) Modification of Performance Goal(s). The Committee is authorized at any time to adjust or modify the calculation of a Performance Goal for such Performance Period, based on and in order to appropriately reflect any specified circumstance or event that occurs during a Performance Period, including but not limited to the following: (i) asset write-downs; (ii) litigation or claim judgments or settlements; (iii) the effect of changes in tax laws, accounting principles, or other laws or regulatory rules affecting reported results; (iv) any reorganization and restructuring programs; (v) unusual and/or infrequently occurring items as described in Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30 (or any successor pronouncement thereto) and/or in management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations appearing in the Company’s annual report to stockholders for the applicable year; (vi) acquisitions or divestitures; (vii) discontinued operations; (viii) any other specific unusual or infrequently occurring or non-recurring events, or objectively determinable category thereof; (ix) foreign exchange gains and losses; and (x) a change in the Company’s fiscal year.

 

(e) Terms and Conditions to Receipt of Payment. Unless otherwise provided in the applicable Award agreement, a Participant must be employed by the Company on the last day of a Performance Period to be eligible for payment in respect of a Performance Compensation Award for such Performance Period. A Participant shall be eligible to receive payment in respect of a Performance Compensation Award only to the extent that: (A) the Performance Goals for such period are achieved; and (B) all or some of the portion of such Participant’s Performance Compensation Award has been earned for the Performance Period based on the application of the Performance Formula to such achieved Performance Goals. Following the completion of a Performance Period, the Committee shall determine whether, and to what extent, the Performance Goals for the Performance Period have been achieved and, if so, calculate the amount of the Performance Compensation Awards earned for the period based upon the Performance Formula. The Committee shall then determine the amount of each Participant’s Performance Compensation Award actually payable for the Performance Period.

 

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(f) Timing of Award Payments. Except as provided in an Award agreement, Performance Compensation Awards granted for a Performance Period shall be paid to Participants as soon as administratively practicable following the Committee’s determination in accordance with Section 11(e).

 

12. Changes in Capital Structure and Similar Events. In the event of (i) any dividend (other than ordinary cash dividends) or other distribution (whether in the form of cash, Common Shares, other securities or other property), recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, amalgamation, consolidation, spin-off, split-up, split-off, combination, repurchase or exchange of Common Shares or other securities of the Company, issuance of warrants or other rights to acquire Common Shares or other securities of the Company, or other similar corporate transaction or event (including, without limitation, a Change in Control) that affects the Common Shares, or (ii) unusual or infrequently occurring events (including, without limitation, a Change in Control) affecting the Company, any Affiliate, or the financial statements of the Company or any Affiliate, or changes in applicable rules, rulings, regulations or other requirements of any governmental body or securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system, accounting principles or law, such that in either case an adjustment is determined by the Committee in its sole discretion to be necessary or appropriate, then the Committee shall make any such adjustments in such manner as it may deem equitable, including without limitation any or all of the following:

 

(a) adjusting any or all of (A) the number of Common Shares or other securities of the Company (or number and kind of other securities or other property) that may be delivered in respect of Awards or with respect to which Awards may be granted under the Plan (including, without limitation, adjusting any or all of the limitations under Section 5 of the Plan) and (B) the terms of any outstanding Award, including, without limitation, (1) the number of Common Shares or other securities of the Company (or number and kind of other securities or other property) subject to outstanding Awards or to which outstanding Awards relate, (2) the Exercise Price or Strike Price with respect to any Award or (3) any applicable performance measures (including, without limitation, Performance Criteria and Performance Goals);

 

(b) providing for a substitution or assumption of Awards in a manner that substantially preserves the applicable terms of such Awards;

 

(c) accelerating the exercisability or vesting of, lapse of restrictions on, or termination of, Awards or providing for a period of time for exercise prior to the occurrence of such event;

 

(d) modifying the terms of Awards to add events, conditions or circumstances (including termination of employment within a specified period after a Change in Control) upon which the exercisability or vesting of or lapse of restrictions thereon will accelerate;

 

(e) deeming any performance measures (including, without limitation, Performance Criteria and Performance Goals) satisfied at target, maximum or actual performance through closing or such other level determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, or providing for the performance measures to continue (as is or as adjusted by the Committee) after closing;

 

(f) providing that for a period prior to the Change in Control determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, any Options or SARs that would not otherwise become exercisable prior to the Change in Control will be exercisable as to all Common Shares subject thereto (but any such exercise will be contingent upon and subject to the occurrence of the Change in Control and if the Change in Control does not take place after giving such notice for any reason whatsoever, the exercise will be null and void) and that any Options or SARs not exercised prior to the consummation of the Change in Control will terminate and be of no further force and effect as of the consummation of the Change in Control; and

 

15
 

 

(g) canceling any one or more outstanding Awards and causing to be paid to the holders thereof, in cash, Common Shares, other securities or other property, or any combination thereof, the value of such Awards, if any, as determined by the Committee (which if applicable may be based upon the price per Common Share received or to be received by other stockholders of the Company in such event), including without limitation, in the case of an outstanding Option or SAR, a cash payment in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value (as of a date specified by the Committee) of the Common Shares subject to such Option or SAR over the aggregate Exercise Price or Strike Price of such Option or SAR, respectively (it being understood that, in such event, any Option or SAR having a per share Exercise Price or Strike Price equal to, or in excess of, the fair market value of a Common Share subject thereto may be canceled and terminated without any payment or consideration therefor); provided, however, that in the case of any “equity restructuring” (within the meaning of the Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718), the Committee shall make an equitable or proportionate adjustment to outstanding Awards to reflect such equity restructuring. The Company shall give each Participant notice of an adjustment hereunder and, upon notice, such adjustment shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes.

 

13. Amendments and Termination.

 

(a) Amendment and Termination of the Plan. The Board may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue, or terminate the Plan or any portion thereof at any time; provided that (i) no amendment to Section 13(b) (to the extent required by the proviso in such Section 13(b)) shall be made without stockholder approval and (ii) no such amendment, alteration, suspension, discontinuation or termination shall be made without stockholder approval if such approval is necessary to comply with any tax or regulatory requirement applicable to the Plan (including, without limitation, as necessary to comply with any rules or requirements of any securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system on which the Common Shares may be listed or quoted); provided, further, that any such amendment, alteration, suspension, discontinuance or termination that would materially and adversely affect the rights of any Participant or any holder or beneficiary of any Award theretofore granted shall not to that extent be effective without the consent of the affected Participant, holder or beneficiary.

 

(b) Amendment of Award Agreements. The Committee may, to the extent consistent with the terms of any applicable Award agreement, waive any conditions or rights under, amend any terms of, or alter, suspend, discontinue, cancel or terminate, any Award theretofore granted or the associated Award agreement, prospectively or retroactively; provided that any such waiver, amendment, alteration, suspension, discontinuance, cancellation or termination that would materially and adversely affect the rights of any Participant with respect to any Award theretofore granted shall not to that extent be effective without the consent of the affected Participant; provided, further, that without stockholder approval, except as otherwise permitted under Section 12 of the Plan, (i) no amendment or modification may reduce the Exercise Price of any Option or the Strike Price of any SAR, (ii) the Committee may not cancel any outstanding Option or SAR where the Fair Market Value of the Common Shares underlying such Option or SAR is less than its Exercise Price and replace it with a new Option or SAR, another Award or cash and (iii) the Committee may not take any other action that is considered a “repricing” for purposes of the stockholder approval rules of the applicable securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system on which the Common Shares are listed or quoted.

 

14. General.

 

(a) Award Agreements. Each Award under the Plan shall be evidenced by an Award agreement, which shall be delivered to the Participant (whether in paper or electronic medium (including email or the posting on a web site maintained by the Company or a third party under contract with the Company)) and shall specify the terms and conditions of the Award and any rules applicable thereto, including without limitation, the effect on such Award of the death, disability or termination of employment or service of a Participant, or of such other events as may be determined by the Committee.

 

16
 

 

(b) Nontransferability.

 

(i) Each Award shall be exercisable only by a Participant during the Participant’s lifetime, or, if permissible under applicable law, by the Participant’s legal guardian or representative. No Award may be assigned, alienated, pledged, attached, sold or otherwise transferred or encumbered by a Participant other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution and any such purported assignment, alienation, pledge, attachment, sale, transfer or encumbrance shall be void and unenforceable against the Company or an Affiliate; provided that the designation of a beneficiary shall not constitute an assignment, alienation, pledge, attachment, sale, transfer or encumbrance.

 

(ii) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, permit Awards (other than Incentive Stock Options) to be transferred by a Participant, without consideration, subject to such rules as the Committee may adopt consistent with any applicable Award agreement to preserve the purposes of the Plan, to: (A) any person who is a “family member” of the Participant, as such term is used in the instructions to Form S-8 under the Securities Act (collectively, the “Immediate Family Members”); (B) a trust solely for the benefit of the Participant and his or her Immediate Family Members; (C) a partnership or limited liability company whose only partners or stockholders are the Participant and his or her Immediate Family Members; or (D) any other transferee as may be approved either (I) by the Board or the Committee in its sole discretion, or (II) as provided in the applicable Award agreement. (each transferee described in clauses (A), (B), (C) and (D) above is hereinafter referred to as a “Permitted Transferee”); provided that the Participant gives the Committee advance written notice describing the terms and conditions of the proposed transfer and the Committee notifies the Participant in writing that such a transfer would comply with the requirements of the Plan.

 

(iii) The terms of any Award transferred in accordance with the immediately preceding sentence shall apply to the Permitted Transferee and any reference in the Plan, or in any applicable Award agreement, to a Participant shall be deemed to refer to the Permitted Transferee, except that (A) Permitted Transferees shall not be entitled to transfer any Award, other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution; (B) Permitted Transferees shall not be entitled to exercise any transferred Option unless there shall be in effect a registration statement on an appropriate form covering the Common Shares to be acquired pursuant to the exercise of such Option if the Committee determines, consistent with any applicable Award agreement, that such a registration statement is necessary or appropriate; (C) the Committee or the Company shall not be required to provide any notice to a Permitted Transferee, whether or not such notice is or would otherwise have been required to be given to the Participant under the Plan or otherwise; and (D) the consequences of the termination of the Participant’s employment by, or services to, the Company or an Affiliate under the terms of the Plan and the applicable Award agreement shall continue to be applied with respect to the Participant, including, without limitation, that an Option shall be exercisable by the Permitted Transferee only to the extent, and for the periods, specified in the Plan and the applicable Award agreement.

 

(c) Tax Withholding and Deductions.

 

(i) A Participant shall be required to pay to the Company or any Affiliate, and the Company or any Affiliate shall have the right and is hereby authorized to deduct and withhold, from any cash, Common Shares, other securities or other property deliverable under any Award or from any compensation or other amounts owing to a Participant, the amount (in cash, Common Shares, other securities or other property) of any required taxes (up to the maximum statutory rate under applicable law as in effect from time to time as determined by the Committee) and deduction in respect of an Award, its grant, vesting or exercise, or any payment or transfer under an Award or under the Plan and to take such other action as may be necessary in the opinion of the Committee or the Company to satisfy all obligations for the payment of such taxes.

 

17
 

 

(ii) Without limiting the generality of clause (i) above, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, determined on a case by case basis, permit a Participant to satisfy, in whole or in part, the foregoing tax and deduction liability by (A) the delivery of Common Shares (which are not subject to any pledge or other security interest and are Mature Shares, except as otherwise determined by the Committee) owned by the Participant having a fair market value equal to such liability or (B) having the Company withhold from the number of Common Shares otherwise issuable or deliverable pursuant to the exercise or settlement of the Award a number of shares with a fair market value equal to such liability.

 

(d) No Claim to Awards; No Rights to Continued Employment; Waiver. No employee of the Company or an Affiliate, or other person, shall have any claim or right to be granted an Award under the Plan or, having been selected for the grant of an Award, to be selected for a grant of any other Award. There is no obligation for uniformity of treatment of Participants or holders or beneficiaries of Awards. The terms and conditions of Awards and the Committee’s determinations and interpretations with respect thereto need not be the same with respect to each Participant and may be made selectively among Participants, whether or not such Participants are similarly situated. Neither the Plan nor any action taken hereunder shall be construed as giving any Participant any right to be retained in the employ or service of the Company or an Affiliate, nor shall it be construed as giving any Participant any rights to continued service on the Board. The Company or any of its Affiliates may at any time dismiss a Participant from employment or discontinue any consulting relationship, free from any liability or any claim under the Plan, unless otherwise expressly provided in the Plan or any Award agreement. By accepting an Award under the Plan, a Participant shall thereby be deemed to have waived any claim to continued exercise or vesting of an Award or to damages or severance entitlement related to non-continuation of the Award beyond the period provided under the Plan or any Award agreement, notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in any written employment contract or other agreement between the Company and its Affiliates and the Participant, whether any such agreement is executed before, on or after the Date of Grant.

 

(e) Addenda/International Participants. The Committee may adopt such addenda to the Plan as it may consider necessary or appropriate for the purpose of granting Awards, which Awards may contain such terms and conditions as the Committee deems necessary or appropriate to accommodate differences in local law, tax policy or custom, which may deviate from the terms and conditions set forth in this Plan The terms of any such addenda shall supersede the terms of the Plan to the extent necessary to accommodate such differences but shall not otherwise affect the terms of the Plan as in effect for any other purpose. With respect to Participants who reside or work outside of the United States of America, the Committee may in its sole discretion amend the terms of the Plan or outstanding Awards with respect to such Participants in order to conform such terms with the requirements of local law or to obtain more favorable tax or other treatment for a Participant, the Company or its Affiliates.

 

(f) Designation and Change of Beneficiary. Each Participant may file with the Committee a written designation of one or more persons as the beneficiary(ies) who shall be entitled to receive the amounts payable with respect to an Award, if any, due under the Plan upon his death. A Participant may, from time to time, revoke or change his beneficiary designation without the consent of any prior beneficiary by filing a new designation with the Committee. The last such designation received by the Committee shall be controlling; provided, however, that no designation, or change or revocation thereof, shall be effective unless received by the Committee prior to the Participant’s death, and in no event shall it be effective as of a date prior to such receipt. If no beneficiary designation is filed by a Participant, the beneficiary shall be deemed to be his or her spouse or, if the Participant is unmarried at the time of death, his or her estate.

 

18
 

 

(g) Termination of Employment/Service. Unless determined otherwise by the Committee at any point following such event: (i) neither a temporary absence from employment or service due to illness, vacation or leave of absence nor a transfer from employment or service with the Company to employment or service with an Affiliate (or vice-versa) shall be considered a termination of employment or service with the Company or an Affiliate; and (ii) if a Participant’s employment with the Company and its Affiliates terminates, but such Participant continues to provide services to the Company and its Affiliates in a non-employee capacity (or vice-versa), such change in status shall not be considered a termination of employment with the Company or an Affiliate.

 

(h) No Rights as a Stockholder. Except as otherwise specifically provided in the Plan or any Award agreement, no person shall be entitled to the privileges of ownership in respect of Common Shares or other securities that are subject to Awards hereunder until such shares have been issued or delivered to that person.

 

(i) Government and Other Regulations.

 

(i) The obligation of the Company to settle Awards in Common Shares or other consideration shall be subject to all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, and to such approvals by governmental agencies as may be required. Notwithstanding any terms or conditions of any Award to the contrary, the Company shall be under no obligation to offer to sell or to sell, and shall be prohibited from offering to sell or selling, any Common Shares or other securities pursuant to an Award unless such shares have been properly registered for sale pursuant to the Securities Act with the Securities and Exchange Commission or unless the Company has received an opinion of counsel, satisfactory to the Company, that such shares may be offered or sold without such registration pursuant to an available exemption therefrom and the terms and conditions of such exemption have been fully complied with. The Company shall be under no obligation to register for sale under the Securities Act any of the Common Shares or other securities to be offered or sold under the Plan. The Committee shall have the authority to provide that all certificates for Common Shares or other securities of the Company or any Affiliate delivered under the Plan shall be subject to such stop transfer orders and other restrictions as the Committee may deem advisable under the Plan, the applicable Award agreement, the federal securities laws, or the rules, regulations and other requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, any securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system upon which such shares or other securities are then listed or quoted and any other applicable federal, state, local or non-U.S. laws, and, without limiting the generality of Section 9 of the Plan, the Committee may cause a legend or legends to be put on any such certificates to make appropriate reference to such restrictions. Notwithstanding any provision in the Plan to the contrary, the Committee reserves the right to add any additional terms or provisions to any Award granted under the Plan that it in its sole discretion deems necessary or advisable in order that such Award complies with the legal requirements of any governmental entity to whose jurisdiction the Award is subject.

 

(ii) The Committee may cancel an Award or any portion thereof if it determines, in its sole discretion, that legal or contractual restrictions and/or blockage and/or other market considerations would make the Company’s acquisition of Common Shares from the public markets, the Company’s issuance of Common Shares or other securities to the Participant, the Participant’s acquisition of Common Shares or other securities from the Company and/or the Participant’s sale of Common Shares to the public markets, illegal, impracticable or inadvisable. If the Committee determines to cancel all or any portion of an Award denominated in Common Shares in accordance with the foregoing, the Company shall pay to the Participant an amount equal to the excess of (A) the aggregate fair market value of the Common Shares subject to such Award or portion thereof canceled (determined as of the applicable exercise date, or the date that the shares would have been vested or delivered, as applicable), over (B) the aggregate Exercise Price or Strike Price (in the case of an Option or SAR, respectively) or any amount payable as a condition of delivery of Common Shares (in the case of any other Award). Such amount shall be delivered to the Participant as soon as practicable following the cancellation of such Award or portion thereof.

 

19
 

 

(j) Payments to Persons Other Than Participants. If the Committee shall find that any person to whom any amount is payable under the Plan is unable to care for his affairs because of illness or accident, or is a minor, or has died, then any payment due to such person or his estate (unless a prior claim therefor has been made by a duly appointed legal representative) may, if the Committee so directs the Company, be paid to his spouse, child, relative, an institution maintaining or having custody of such person, or any other person deemed by the Committee to be a proper recipient on behalf of such person otherwise entitled to payment. Any such payment shall be a complete discharge of the liability of the Committee and the Company therefor.

 

(k) Nonexclusivity of the Plan. Neither the adoption of this Plan by the Board nor the submission of this Plan to the stockholders of the Company for approval shall be construed as creating any limitations on the power of the Board to adopt such other incentive arrangements as it may deem desirable, including, without limitation, the granting of stock options or other equity-based awards otherwise than under this Plan, and such arrangements may be either applicable generally or only in specific cases.

 

(l) No Trust or Fund Created. Neither the Plan nor any Award shall create or be construed to create a trust or separate fund of any kind or a fiduciary relationship between the Company or any Affiliate, on the one hand, and a Participant or other person or entity, on the other hand. No provision of the Plan or any Award shall require the Company, for the purpose of satisfying any obligations under the Plan, to purchase assets or place any assets in a trust or other entity to which contributions are made or otherwise to segregate any assets, nor shall the Company maintain separate bank accounts, books, records or other evidence of the existence of a segregated or separately maintained or administered fund for such purposes. Participants shall have no rights under the Plan other than as unsecured general creditors of the Company, except that insofar as they may have become entitled to payment of additional compensation by performance of services, they shall have the same rights as other employees under general law.

 

(m) Reliance on Reports. Each member of the Committee and each member of the Board shall be fully justified in acting or failing to act, as the case may be, and shall not be liable for having so acted or failed to act in good faith, in reliance upon any report made by the independent public accountant of the Company and its Affiliates and/or any other information furnished in connection with the Plan by any agent of the Company or the Committee or the Board, other than himself.

 

(n) Relationship to Other Benefits. No payment under the Plan shall be taken into account in determining any benefits under any pension, retirement, profit sharing, group insurance or other benefit plan of the Company except as otherwise specifically provided in such other plan.

 

(o) Governing Law. The Plan shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of Delaware applicable to contracts made and performed wholly within the State of Delaware, without giving effect to the conflict of laws provisions thereof. Each party hereby irrevocably and unconditionally submits, for itself and its property, to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts seated in Wilmington, Delaware (and any appellate courts thereof) in any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Plan, and each of the parties hereby irrevocably and unconditionally (a) agrees not to commence any such action or proceeding except in such courts, (b) agrees that any claim in respect of any such action or proceeding may be heard and determined in such court, (c) waives, to the fullest extent it may legally and effectively do so, any objection which it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any such action or proceeding in any such court, and (d) waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the defense of an inconvenient forum to the maintenance of such action or proceeding in any such court. Each party agrees that a final judgment in any such action or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law. Each party hereby knowingly, voluntarily and intentionally irrevocably waives the right to a trial by jury in respect to any litigation, dispute, claim, legal action or other legal proceeding based hereon, or arising out of, under, or in connection with, this Plan.

 

20
 

 

(p) Severability. If any provision of the Plan or any Award or Award agreement is or becomes or is deemed to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any jurisdiction or as to any person or entity or Award, or would disqualify the Plan or any Award under any law deemed applicable by the Committee, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to conform to the applicable laws, or if it cannot be construed or deemed amended without, in the determination of the Committee, materially altering the intent of the Plan or the Award, such provision shall be construed or deemed stricken as to such jurisdiction, person or entity or Award and the remainder of the Plan and any such Award shall remain in full force and effect.

 

(q) Obligations Binding on Successors. The obligations of the Company under the Plan shall be binding upon any successor corporation or organization resulting from the merger, amalgamation, consolidation or other reorganization of the Company, or upon any successor corporation or organization succeeding to substantially all of the assets and business of the Company.

 

(r) Code Section 409A.

 

(i) Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan to the contrary, all Awards made under this Plan are intended to be exempt from or, in the alternative, comply with Code Section 409A and the interpretive guidance thereunder, including the exceptions for stock rights and short-term deferrals. The Plan shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with such intent. Each payment under an Award shall be treated as a separate payment for purposes of Code Section 409A.

 

(ii) If a Participant is a “specified employee” (as such term is defined for purposes of Code Section 409A) at the time of his or her termination of service, no amount that is nonqualified deferred compensation subject to Code Section 409A and that becomes payable by reason of such termination of service shall be paid to the Participant (or in the event of the Participant’s death, the Participant’s representative or estate) before the earlier of (x) the first business day after the date that is six months following the date of the Participant’s termination of service, and (y) within 30 days following the date of the Participant’s death. For purposes of Code Section 409A, a termination of service shall be deemed to occur only if it is a “separation from service” within the meaning of Code Section 409A, and references in the Plan and any Award agreement to “termination of service” or similar terms shall mean a “separation from service.” If any Award is or becomes subject to Code Section 409A, unless the applicable Award agreement provides otherwise, such Award shall be payable upon the Participant’s “separation from service” within the meaning of Code Section 409A. If any Award is or becomes subject to Code Section 409A and if payment of such Award would be accelerated or otherwise triggered under a Change in Control, then the definition of Change in Control shall be deemed modified, only to the extent necessary to avoid the imposition of an excise tax under Code Section 409A, to mean a “change in control event” as such term is defined for purposes of Code Section 409A.

 

21
 

 

(iii) Any adjustments made pursuant to Section 12 to Awards that are subject to Code Section 409A shall be made in compliance with the requirements of Code Section 409A, and any adjustments made pursuant to Section 12 to Awards that are not subject to Code Section 409A shall be made in such a manner as to ensure that after such adjustment, the Awards either (x) continue not to be subject to Code Section 409A or (y) comply with the requirements of Code Section 409A.

 

(s) Expenses; Gender; Titles and Headings. The expenses of administering the Plan shall be borne by the Company and its Affiliates. Masculine pronouns and other words of masculine gender shall refer to both men and women. The titles and headings of the sections in the Plan are for convenience of reference only, and in the event of any conflict, the text of the Plan, rather than such titles or headings shall control.

 

(t) Other Agreements. Notwithstanding the above, the Committee may require, as a condition to the grant of and/or the receipt of Common Shares or other securities under an Award, that the Participant execute lock-up, stockholder or other agreements, as it may determine in its sole and absolute discretion.

 

(u) Payments. Participants shall be required to pay, to the extent required by applicable law, any amounts required to receive Common Shares or other securities under any Award made under the Plan.

 

(v) Erroneously Awarded Compensation. All Awards shall be subject (including on a retroactive basis) to (i) any clawback, forfeiture or similar incentive compensation recoupment policy established from time to time by the Company, including, without limitation, any such policy established to comply with the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, (ii) applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and Section 954 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act), and/or (iii) the rules and regulations of the applicable securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system on which the Common Shares or other securities are listed or quoted, and such requirements shall be deemed incorporated by reference into all outstanding Award agreements.

 

[Signature page follows]

 

22
 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this SHF Holdings, Inc. 2022 Equity Incentive Plan has been duly approved and adopted by the Company and the stockholders as of the dates set forth below.

 

Adopted by consent of the Board: February 11, 2022  
     
Stockholder Approved: June 28, 2022  
     
SHF HOLDINGS, INC.  
     
By: /s/ John Darwin  
  John Darwin  
     
Title: Co-Chief Executive Officer  
     
Date: September 28, 2022  

 

[Signature page to SHF Holdings, Inc. 2022 Equity Incentive Plan]

 

23

 

Exhibit 21.1

 

Subsidiaries of SHF Holdings, Inc.

 

Name of Subsidiary   Jurisdiction of Organization
SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial   Colorado

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.1

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53 CARVED OUT OF
PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Combined Financial Statements:  
    
Combined Balance Sheets at June 30, 2022 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2021 1
   
Combined Statements of Net Income and Comprehensive Income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021 (Unaudited) 2
   
Combined Statements of Parent-Entity Net Investment for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021 (Unaudited) 3
   
Combined Statements of Cash Flows at June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021 (Unaudited) 4
   
Notes to Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) 5

 

 

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND
BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

 

   June 30,   December 31, 
   2022   2021 
   (Unaudited)   (Audited) 
ASSETS          
Current Assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $6,382,448   $5,495,905 
Accounts receivable – parent   720,417    522,896 
Accounts receivable – other   1,219    - 
Contract assets   27,710    18,317 
Prepaid expenses   19,471    6,021 
Accrued interest receivable   14,762    7,556 
Short-term loans receivable   55,711    52,833 
Total Current Assets   7,221,738    6,103,528 
           
Long-term loans receivable, net   1,865,367    1,410,727 
Property and equipment, net   13,191    6,351 
Security deposit   1,867     
Total Assets  $9,102,163   $7,520,606 
           
LIABILITIES AND PARENT-ENTITY NET INVESTMENT          
Current Liabilities:          
Accounts payable  $119,462   $43,626 
Accrued expenses   264,037    129,546 
Contract liabilities       8,333 
Total Current Liabilities   383,499    181,505 
           
Net deferred loan origination fees   118,116     
Indemnity liability   288,505     
Total Liabilities   790,120    181,505 
           
Parent-Entity Net Investment   8,312,043    7,339,101 
Total Liabilities and Parent-Entity Net Investment  $9,102,163   $7,520,606 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements

 

1

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF NET INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

 

   For the three months ended June 30,   For the six months ended June 30, 
   2022   2021   2022   2021 
                 
Revenue  $1,852,789   $1,830,314   $3,523,899   $3,580,595 
                     
Operating Expenses                    
Compensation and employee benefits   794,997    482,687    1,517,522    991,328 
Professional services   188,214    37,612    319,030    62,269 
Rent expense   26,303    9,065    51,328    23,866 
Corporate allocations   -    367,407    -    648,533 
Provision for loan losses   237,874    6,825    306,065    11,927 
General and administrative expenses   269,057    209,547    492,010    237,098 
Total operating expenses   1,516,445    1,113,143    2,685,955    1,975,021 
                     
Net income and comprehensive income  $336,344   $717,171   $837,944   $1,605,574 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements

 

2

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF PARENT-ENTITY NET INVESTMENT

(Unaudited)

 

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2022

 

Balance at April 1, 2022  $7,900,700 
Net income   336,344 
Contribution from Parent   74,999 
Balance at June 30, 2022  $8,312,043 

 

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2021

 

Balance at April 1, 2021  $4,831,364 
Net income   717,171 
Contribution of loans receivable from Parent   682,500 
Net change due to allocations and distributions to Parent   (699,787)
Balance at June 30, 2021  $5,531,248 

 

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2022

 

Balance at January 1, 2022  $7,339,101 
Net income   837,944 
Contribution from Parent   134,998 
Balance at June 30, 2022  $8,312,043 

 

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2021

 

Balance at January 1, 2021  $4,354,021 
Net income   1,605,574 
Contribution of loans receivable from Parent   1,192,750 
Net change due to allocations and distributions to Parent   (1,621,097)
Balance at June 30 2021  $5,531,248 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements

 

3

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53
CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

   For the six months ended June 30, 
   2022   2021 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:          
Net income  $837,944   $1,605,574 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
Depreciation expense   1,952    865 
Provision for loan losses   306,065    11,927 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:          
Accounts receivable and contract assets   (208,133)   232,491 
Prepaid expenses   (13,450)   (36,565)
Accrued interest receivable   (7,206)    
Accounts payable   75,836    (66,609)
Accrued expenses   134,491    (28,382)
Deferred loan origination fees   118,116     
Contract liabilities   (8,333)   39,914 
Security deposit   (1,868)    
Net cash provided by operating activities   1,235,414    1,759,215 
           
CASH FLOWS USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES:          
Purchase of property and equipment   (8,792)    
New loan issuance   (500,000)    
Loans receivable repayment   24,923    16,689 
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities   (483,869)   16,689 
           
CASH FLOWS USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES:          
Net change in parent funding, allocations, and distributions to parent   134,998    (1,621,097)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   134,998    (1,621,097)
           
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents   886,543    154,807 
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period   5,495,905    3,001,363 
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period  $6,382,448   $3,156,170 
           
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:          
Non-Cash transactions:          
Contribution of loan receivable from Parent  $   $1,192,750 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements

 

4

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 1. Business Description and Basis of Presentation

 

Business Description

 

Eagle Legacy Services, PLLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Services (“SHS” or “OldCo”) was established as a limited liability company, acting as a credit union service organization (“CUSO”) in accordance with applicable laws, in order to provide access to reliable and compliant financial services for the legal cannabis industry and cannabis related businesses (“CRBs”). SHS was a wholly owned subsidiary of Partner Colorado Credit Union (“PCCU”).

 

In addition to SHS, the combined financial statements consist of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of certain branches (the “Branches”) of PCCU.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2020, PCCU created two new entities: SHF Holding Co., LLC (“Holdco”), an interim holding company that is directly wholly owned by PCCU and SHF, LLC (“NewCo” or “SHF”), an operating entity wholly owned by Holdco. As a result, SHF is a single member limited liability company with no shareholders.

 

PCCU’s Board of Directors approved the contribution of certain assets and operating activities associated with operations from both the Branches and Oldco to Holdco. Holdco then contributed the same assets and related operations to SHF with PCCU’s investment in SHF maintained at the Holdco level (the “reorganization”). The reorganization effectively occurred July 1, 2021. In conjunction with the reorganization, all of Branches’ employees and certain Parent employees were terminated from PCCU and hired as SHF employees. Collectively, SHS, the Branches and SHF represent the “Carved-Out Operations” or the “Company”. After the reorganization, SHF contains the entirety of the Carved-Out Operations and OldCo was dissolved. In addition, effective July 1, 2021, the Company entered into an Account Servicing Agreement and Support Servicing Agreement which were subsequently amended and restated and are discussed in Note 6.

 

The Carved-Out Operations generate both interest income and fee income through providing a variety of services to financial institutions desiring to service the cannabis industry including, among other things, Bank Secrecy Act and other regulatory compliance and reporting, onboarding, responding to account inquiries, responding to customer service inquiries relating to CRB depository accounts held at PCCU, and sourcing and managing loans. In addition to PCCU, the Carved-Out Operations provides these similar services and outsourced support to other financial institutions providing banking to the cannabis industry. These services are provided to other financial institutions under the Safe Harbor Master Program Agreement.

 

As of and subsequent to July 1, 2021, the presented financial information represents SHF results on a stand-alone basis.

 

Definitive Purchase Agreement

 

On February 11, 2022, SHF and SHF Holding Co., LLC, the sole member of SHF, and PCCU, the sole member of SHF Holding, Co., LLC, entered into a definitive purchase agreement (the Business Combination) with Northern Lights Acquisition Corp., a special purpose acquisition company, and its sponsor, 5AK, LLC.

 

Pursuant to the purchase agreement, upon the closing of the contemplated transaction, Northern Lights Acquisition Corp. will purchase all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of SHF in exchange for an aggregate of $185,000,000, consisting of (i) 11,386,139 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock with an aggregate value equal to $115,000,000 and (ii) $70,000,000 in cash. At transaction close, 1,831,683 shares of the Class A Common Stock will be deposited with an escrow agent to be held in escrow for a period of 12 months following the closing date to satisfy potential indemnification claims of the parties. In addition, $3,143,388 in cash and cash equivalents representing the amount of cash on hand at July 31, 2021 less accrued but unpaid liabilities, will be paid to PCCU at the final transaction close. On September 19, 2022, the parties entered into the first amendment to the purchase agreement to extend the date by which the closing had to occur from August 31, 2022 until September 28, 2022 and provide for the deferral of $30 million of the $70 million in cash due at the closing. On September 22, 2022, the parties entered into the second amendment to the purchase agreement to provide for the deferral of a total of $50 of the $70 million due at the closing. On September 28, 2022, the parties entered into the third amendment to the purchase agreement to provide for the deferral of a total of $56,949,800.66 million of the $70,000,000 due at the closing.

 

Pursuant to the purchase agreement the Company entered into amended services agreements under similar terms as the July 2021 agreements. In addition, in conjunction with the purchase agreement, SHF and Parent entered into a Loan Servicing Agreement. Refer to Note 6 for additional information. Refer to Note 12 for a schedule demonstrating the estimated impact these agreements would have on the combined statements of net income and comprehensive income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Basis of Presentation

 

Financial statements have not historically been prepared for the Carved-Out Operations. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, the combined financial statements, consist of the balances of SHS and SHF as prepared on a stand-alone basis and the balances of the Branches on a “carve-out” basis. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, the financial statements represent SHF on a stand-alone basis as the period is post reorganization. As a result, corporate allocations are included in the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 with no comparable amount for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022. The financial statements of the Branches were derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of PCCU using branch specific information, where available, and corporate allocations from PCCU. All intracompany transactions have been eliminated for all periods presented. These combined financial statements reflect the Company’s historical financial position, results of operations and cash flows as they have been historically managed in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”).

 

All depository asset accounts and liabilities are retained by PCCU as the Carved-Out Operations is not organized as a chartered financial institution. Accordingly, none of the cash of PCCU has been attributed to these combined financial statements. Asset and liabilities maintained by SHS and SHF have been included in these financial statements along with any specific assets and liabilities associated with the Branches.

 

Liquidity

 

As of June 30, 2022, the Company had $6,382,448 in cash and net working capital of $6,838,239. This compared to $5,495,905 in cash and net working capital of $5,922,023 at December 31, 2021.

 

5

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Revenue and expenses for the Branches were included based on specific identification as they relate to customer deposits, professional services, compensation and employee benefits, rent expense, provision for loan losses and other general and administrative expenses. Corporate allocations such as information technology, customer support, marketing, executive compensation and other general and administrative expenses are attributed to the Branches proportionately based on the size of the specifically identifiable CRB’s deposit balances, deposit activity and accounts relative to the totals of the consolidated Parent. This allocation method was consistent for all periods prior to July 2021. Allocated amounts are categorized as Corporate allocations on the Combined Statements of Net Income and Comprehensive Income. Beginning in July 2021, a services agreement was entered into between Newco and PCCU (see Note 6). In exchange for services provided to PCCU via the Carved-Out Operations, Newco receives 100% of CRB related revenue. PCCU receives (and Newco pays) a monthly per account fee, split loan servicing fees and split investment income associated with Carved-Out Operations depository accounts. The fees are meant to represent PCCU’s cost for hosting depository accounts and funding related loans and providing certain limited infrastructure support.

 

Management has considered the basis on which the expenses have been allocated to be a reasonable reflection of the utilization of services provided to or the benefits received by the Branches during the periods presented.

 

All revenue and expenses of SHS and SHF are specific to the entity. Corporate allocations were not attributed for any of the periods presented.

 

Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Parent-Entity Net Investment

 

Parent-Entity Net Investment balance in the combined balance sheets represents PCCU’s historical net investment in the Carved-Out Operations. For purposes of these combined financial statements, investing requirements have been summarized as “Parent-Entity Net Investment” and represents equity as no cash settlement with PCCU is required. No separate equity accounts are maintained for SHS, SHF or the Branches.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Material estimates that are particularly subject to change in the near term include the determination of the allowance for loan losses, and the fair value of financial instruments. Actual results could differ from the estimates.

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from financial institutions, and investments with maturities of three months or less.

 

Concentrations of Risk

 

The Company’s financial instruments that are exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash. Cash balances are maintained principally in accounts at PCCU which is insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (“NCUSIF”) up to regulatory limits. From time to time, cash balances may exceed the NCUSIF insurance limit. The Company has not experienced any credit losses associated with its cash balances in the past.

 

Currently the Company only services the cannabis industry. Cannabis remains illegal under federal law, and therefore, strict enforcement of federal laws regarding cannabis would likely result in our inability to execute our business plan.

 

Currently the Company substantially relies on its Parent to hold customer deposits and fund its originated loans. As of this time, substantially all of the Company’s revenue is generated by deposits and loans hosted by its Parent pursuant to various services agreements.

 

Accounts receivable-Parent and allowance for doubtful accounts

 

Accounts receivable are recorded based on account fee schedules. While fees are generated from individual CRB related accounts, amounts are initially collected by the financial institutional partners and remitted in the subsequent month. As of June 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, 99.8% and 100% of the Accounts Receivable, respectively is due from Parent. Effective January 2021 through June 2021, PCCU elected to transfer account servicing from SHS to the Branches. In accordance with this change, a policy was adopted wherein substantially all cash was collected by PCCU and retained by PCCU outside of the Branches and SHS. As a result, minimal accounts receivable from Parent existed at June 30, 2021. This policy was eliminated in conjunction with the July 2021 reorganization and execution of the Account Servicing Agreement and Support Servicing Agreement discussed at Note 6. The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses as a result of a customers’ inability to make required payments. The Company estimates anticipated losses from doubtful accounts based on days past due as measured from the contractual due date and historical collection history. The Company also takes into consideration changes in economic conditions that may not be reflected in historical trends, for example customers in bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization. Receivables are written-off against the allowance for doubtful accounts when they are determined uncollectible. Such determination includes analysis and consideration of the particular conditions of the account, including time intervals since last collection, customer performance against agreed upon payment plans, solvency of customer and any bankruptcy proceedings.

 

6

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

At June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, there were no recorded allowance for doubtful accounts.

 

Loans receivable

 

PCCU originates mortgage, commercial and consumer loans to members and other businesses. Commercial CRB loans originated by the Company and funded by PCCU are typically managed by the Company. Certain CRB Loans were contributed to the Carved-out Operations. Such loans where the Company has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at principal balance outstanding, net of an allowance for loan losses and net deferred loan origination costs when applicable. Interest income on loans is recognized over the term of the loan and is calculated using the simple-interest method on principal amounts outstanding.

 

Interest income is not reported when full loan repayment is in doubt, typically when the loan is impaired, or payments are past due ninety days or more. All interest accrued but not received for loans placed on nonaccrual is reversed against interest income. Interest received on such loans is accounted for on the cash basis or cost recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts are satisfied to where the loan is less than ninety days past due and future payments are reasonably assured.

 

Loans are evaluated for charge-off on a case-by-case basis and are typically charged off at the time of foreclosure.

 

Past-due status is based on the contractual terms of the loans. In all cases, loans are placed on nonaccrual status or charged-off at an earlier date if the collection of principal and interest is considered doubtful.

 

Allowance for loan losses

 

The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses, increased by the provision for loan losses and decreased by charge-offs less recoveries. Management estimates the required allowance for loan losses balance using past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the nature and volume of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, economic conditions, and other factors. Allocations of the allowance for loan losses may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged-off.

 

The allowance for loan losses consists of specific and general components. The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired or loans otherwise classified as substandard or doubtful. The general component covers non-classified loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors.

 

Due to the nature of uncertainties related to any estimation process, Management’s estimate of loan losses inherent in the loan portfolio may change in the near term. However, the amount of the change that is reasonably possible cannot be estimated.

 

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, full payment under the loan terms is not expected. Impairment is generally evaluated in total for smaller-balance loans of similar nature such as commercial lines of credit, but may be evaluated on an individual loan basis if deemed necessary. If a loan is impaired, a portion of the allowance is allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral if repayment is expected solely from the collateral.

 

The loans SHF intends to originate will be secured by various types of assets of the borrowers, including real property and certain personal property, including value associated with other assets to the extent permitted by applicable laws and the regulations governing the borrowers. The documents governing the loans also include a variety of provisions intended to provide remedies against the value associated with licenses. Collection procedures are designed to ensure that neither SHF nor its financial institution clients who provide funding for a loan, nor a third-party agent engaged to assist with the liquidation or foreclosure process, will take possession of cannabis inventory, cannabis paraphernalia, or other cannabis-related assets, nor will they take title to real estate used in cannabis-related businesses. Upon default of a loan, a third-party agent will be engaged to work with the borrower to have the borrower sell collateral securing the loan to a third party or to institute a foreclosure proceeding to have such collateral sold to generate funds towards the payoff of the loan. Applicable regulations under state law that govern CRBs generally do not permit the taking of title to real estate involved in commercial sales of cannabis, whether through foreclosure or otherwise, without prior regulatory approval. The sale of a license or other realization of the value of licenses also requires the approval of state and local regulatory authorities. A defaulted loan may also be sold if such a sale would yield higher proceeds or that a sale could be accomplished more quickly than a foreclosure proceeding while yielding proceeds comparable to what would be expected from a foreclosure sale. Such sale of the loan would be conducted through a third-party administrative agent. However, SHF can provide no assurances that a sale of such loans would be possible or that the sales price of such loans would be sufficient to recover the outstanding principal balance, accrued interest, and fees.

 

7

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Net deferred loan origination fees

 

When included with a new loan origination, we receive loan origination fees in conjunction with new loans funded by our financial institution partners. Where applicable, the loan origination fee is netted with loan origination costs associated with originating a specific loan. These loan origination costs are typically incremental direct costs (non-reimbursed) paid to third parties. Net loan origination fees are initially deferred and recognized as interest income utilizing the interest method.

 

Indemnity liability

 

Effective February 11, 2022, SHF entered into a Loan Servicing Agreement with PCCU. Under the Loan Servicing Agreement, PCCU, in exchange for a fee at an annual rate of 0.25% of the outstanding principal balance, funds certain loans. Under the Loan Servicing Agreement, SHF has agreed to indemnify PCCU from all claims related to SHF’s cannabis-related business, including but not limited to default-related loan losses as defined in the Loan Servicing Agreement. The indemnification component of the Loan Servicing Agreement (refer to Note 6) is accounted for in accordance with ASC 450-20 Loss Contingencies. In determining the applicability of ASC 450-20, we considered that the agreement outlines a broad indemnification of all claims related to the cannabis-related business. The most immediate and potentially significant of these are potential default-related loan losses. In the lending industry, it is inherently anticipated future loan losses will result from currently issued debt. SHF’s indemnity obligation is subordinate to PCCU’s and other financial institution clients’ other means of collecting on the loans including foreclosure of the collateral, recourse against personal and/or corporate guarantors and other default remedies available in the loan agreements. Since borrowers are not party to the agreement between SHF and PCCU, any indemnity payments do not relieve borrowers of their obligation to PCCU nor would such payments preclude PCCU’s right to future recoveries from the debtor. Therefore, as defined in ASC 450-20, the indemnification clause represents a general loss contingency in that it is an existing condition, situation or set of circumstances involving uncertainty as to possible loss to the Company that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. SHF’s indemnity liability reflects SHF management’s estimate of probable loan losses inherent under the agreement at the balance sheet date. Management uses a disciplined process and methodology to establish the liability, and the estimates are sensitive to risk ratings assigned to individual loans covered by the agreement as well as economic assumptions driving the estimation model. Individual loan risk ratings are evaluated quarterly by SHF management based on each situation.

 

In addition to default-related loan losses, SHF continuously monitors all other circumstances pursuant to the agreement and identifies events that may necessitate a loss contingency under the Loan Servicing Agreement. A loss contingency is reported when it is both probable that a future event will confirm that a loss had been incurred on or before the related balance sheet date and the loss is reasonably estimable.

 

Property and equipment, net

 

Property and equipment is recorded at historical cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided over the assets’ useful lives on a straight-line basis - 4-5 years for equipment and furniture and fixtures. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.

 

Management periodically assesses the estimated useful life over which assets are depreciated or amortized. If the analysis warrants a change in the estimated useful life of property and equipment, management will reduce the estimated useful life and depreciate or amortize the carrying value prospectively over the shorter remaining useful life.

 

The carrying amounts of assets sold or retired and the related accumulated depreciation are eliminated in the period of disposal and the resulting gains and losses are included in the results of operations during the same period.

 

8

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Impairment of long-lived assets

 

The Company evaluates the recoverability of tangible assets periodically by taking into account events or circumstances that may warrant revised estimates of useful lives or that indicate the asset may be impaired. There were no impairments for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and the year ended December 31, 2021.

 

Federal and State Tax Exemption

 

PCCU is exempt from most federal, state, and local taxes under the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and state tax laws. However, PCCU is subject to unrelated business income tax. The Carved-Out Operations are wholly owned by PCCU and therefore, are exempt from most federal and state income taxes. The Income Taxes Topic of the FASB ASC clarifies accounting for uncertainty in income taxes reported in the financial statements. The interpretation provides criteria for assessment of individual tax positions and a process for recognition and measurement of uncertain tax positions. Tax positions are evaluated on whether they meet the “more likely than not” standard for sustainability on examination by tax authorities. Management has determined there are no material uncertain tax positions.

 

Fair value measurements

 

The Company utilizes the fair value hierarchy to apply fair value measurements. The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair values that are either observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity’s pricing based upon its own market assumptions. The basis for fair value measurements for each level within the hierarchy is described below:

 

Level 1 —Quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

 

Level 2 —Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; or model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.

 

Level 3 —Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs to the valuation model are unobservable.

 

With the exceptions of loans receivable, the Company considers the carrying amounts of its financial instruments (cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable) in the balance sheet to approximate fair value because of the short-term or highly liquid nature of these financial instruments. The fair values of loans receivables, for disclosure purposes only, are estimated using unobservable inputs, as more fully disclosed in Note 10.

 

Revenue recognition

 

The Company adopted Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”). 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. ASC 606 defines a five-step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, it is possible more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than required under previous accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) including identifying performance obligations in the contract, estimating the amount of variable consideration to include in the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to each separate performance obligation. The Company adopted ASC 606 for all applicable contracts using the modified retrospective method, which would have required a cumulative-effect adjustment, if any, as of the date of adoption. The adoption of ASC 606 did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements as of the date of adoption. As a result, a cumulative- effect adjustment was not required.

 

Revenue is recorded at a point in time when the performance obligation is satisfied, and no contingencies exist. Revenue consists primarily of fees earned on deposit accounts held at PCCU but serviced by the Company such as bank account charges, onboarding income, account activity fee income and other miscellaneous fees.

 

In addition, the Company recognizes revenue from the Master Program Agreement. The Master Program Agreement is a non-exclusive and non-transferable right to implement and utilize the Safe Harbor Program. The Safe Harbor Program has two performance obligations; an implementation fee recognized when the contract is effective, and a service fee recognized ratable over the contract term as the compliance program is executed.

 

Lastly, the Company also records revenue for interest on loans and investment income allocated by PCCU based on specific customer balances.

 

Amounts received in advance of the service being provided is recorded as a liability under deferred revenue on the combined balance sheets. Typical Safe Harbor Program contracts are three-year contracts with amounts due monthly, quarterly or annually based on contract terms.

 

9

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Customers consist of financial institutions providing services to CRBs. Revenues are concentrated in the United States.

 

As of June 30, 2022, the Company reported contract assets and contract liabilities of $27,710 and $0, respectively, from contracts with customers. As of December 31, 2021, the Company reported a contract asset and liability of $18,317 and $8,333, respectively. During the three and six months ending June 30, 2022, the Company recognized revenue $0 and $8,333, respectively related to the contract liability outstanding at December 31, 2021.

 

Advertising/Marketing costs

 

Advertising/Marketing costs are expensed as incurred. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, advertising/marketing costs were $83,147 and $170,839 respectively. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, advertising/marketing costs were $22,137 and $27,403 respectively.

 

Software development costs

 

The Company applied agile development methodologies to their software development projects, which are characterized by a more dynamic development process with more frequent and iterative revisions to the product features and functions as the software is being developed. Due to the shorter development cycle and focus on rapid production associated with agile development, the costs incurred to get to, and have incurred subsequent to the achievement of technological feasibility have been expensed as incurred.

 

Software development costs amounted to $35,880 and $57,730 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, respectively. Software development costs amounted to $30,973 and $57,526 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively.

 

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

 

From time to time, new accounting pronouncements are issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, or other standard setting bodies and adopted by the Company as of the specified effective date. Unless otherwise discussed, the impact of recently issued standards that are not yet effective and are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations upon adoption.

 

Financial Instruments—Credit Losses

 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments — Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which introduces a model based on expected losses to estimate credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments. In November 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-10 Financial Instruments — Credit Losses (Topic 326), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), and Leases (Topic 842). The update allows the extension of the initial effective date for entities which have not yet adopted ASU No. 2016-02. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2022 for private companies and SEC filers classified as smaller reporting entities, with early adoption permitted. Entities apply the standard’s provisions by recording a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings. The Company has not yet adopted ASU 2016-13 and is currently assessing the impact of this new standard on its financial statements.

 

Collaborative Arrangements

 

In November 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-18, Collaborative Arrangements (Topic 808). This update clarifies the interaction between ASC 808, Collaborative Arrangements and ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2018-18”). The update clarifies that certain transactions between participants in a collaborative arrangement should be accounted for under ASC 606 when the counterparty is a customer. In addition, the update precludes an entity from presenting consideration from a transaction in a collaborative arrangement as revenue if the counterparty is not a customer for that transaction. ASU 2018-18 should be applied retrospectively to the date of initial application of ASC 606 and early adoption is permitted.

 

10

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The ASU’s amendments were effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods therein. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements as the Company does not have any collaborative agreements. However, there is a potential for the Company to enter into collaborative agreements in the future, as it expands into additional markets.

 

Leases

 

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). FASB issued ASU 2016-02 to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. Certain qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required, as well as a retrospective recognition and measurement of impacted leases. In June 2020, FASB issued ASU 2020-05, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) and Leases (Topic 842): Deferral of the Effective Dates for Certain Entities, which deferred the effective date of ASU 2016-02 to annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2021, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022. Early adoption is permitted. Management is currently evaluating this standard but anticipates the adoption of the new lease standard to be immaterial. Effective July 1, 2022, the Company amended its existing lease to a month-to-month lease and therefore no asset or liability amounts are reported pursuant to ASC 842.

 

Note 3. Loans Receivable

 

Unsecured loans receivable, net consist of the following:

 

  

June 30,

2022

  

December 31,

2021

 
   (Unaudited)     
Unsecured loans receivable, gross  $500,000   $         - 
Allowance for loan losses   (10,500)   - 
Unsecured loans receivable, net   489,500    - 
Current portion   -    - 
Noncurrent portion  $489,500   $- 

 

Commercial real estate loans receivable, net consist of the following:

 

  

June 30,

2022

  

December 31,

2021

 
   (Unaudited)     
Commercial real estate loans receivable, gross  $1,453,379   $1,478,301 
Allowance for loan losses   (21,801)   (14,741)
Commercial real estate loans receivable, net   1,431,578    1,463,560 
Current portion   (55,711)   (52,833)
Noncurrent portion  $1,375,867   $1,410,727 

 

At June 30, 2022, $500,000 of the loans receivable amount represented an unsecured loan at 8.5% interest with the residual balance consisting of commercial loans collateralized with real estate. At December 31, 2021, loans receivable represented commercial loans collateralized with real estate. Collateralized loans bear interest rates from 6.54% to 7.50%. All loans were current and considered performing at both June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021.

 

11

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 4. Allowance for Loan Losses

 

The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level believed to be sufficient to provide for estimated loan losses based on evaluating known and inherent risks in the loan portfolio. The allowance is provided based upon management’s analysis of the pertinent factors underlying the quality of the loan portfolio. These factors include changes in the amount and composition of the loan portfolio, delinquency levels, actual loss experience, current economic conditions, and detailed analysis of individual loans for which the full collectability may not be assured. The detailed analysis includes methods to estimate the fair value of loan collateral and the existence of potential alternative sources of repayment.

 

The allowance may consist of specific and general components. While the allowance may consist of general and specific components, the allowance is general in nature and is available for the loan portfolio in its entirety.

 

The allowance for loan losses consists of the following activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:

 

  

 

Unsecured loan

   Commercial real estate loans   Total 
Six Months ended June 30, 2022:               
Allowance for loan losses:               
Beginning balance  $   $14,741   $14,741 
Charge-offs            
Recoveries            
Provision   10,500    7,060    17,560 
Ending balance  $10,500   $21,801   $32,301 
                
Three months ended June 30, 2022:               
Allowance for loan losses:               
                
Beginning balance  $   $24,545   $24,545 
Charge-offs            
Recoveries            
Provision (benefit)   10,500    (2,744)   7,756 
Ending balance  $10,500   $21,801   $32,301 
                
Loans receivable at June 30, 2022               
Individually evaluated for impairment  $   $   $ 
Collectively evaluated for impairment   500,000    1,453,379    1,953,379 
   $500,000   $1,453,379   $1,953,379 
                
Allowance for loan losses at June 30, 2022               
Individually evaluated for impairment  $   $   $ 
Collectively evaluated for impairment   10,500    21,801    32,301 
   $10,500   $21,801   $32,301 

 

  

 

Unsecured loan

   Commercial real estate loans   Total 
Six Months ended June 30, 2021:            
Allowance for loan losses:               
Beginning balance  $   $13,342   $13,342 
Charge-offs            
Recoveries            
Provision       11,927    11,927 
Ending balance  $   $25,269   $25,269 
                
Three months ended June 30, 2021:               
Allowance for loan losses:               
                
Beginning balance  $   $18,444   $18,444 
Charge-offs            
Recoveries            
Provision       6,825    6,825 
Ending balance  $   $25,269   $25,269 
                
Loans receivable at June 30, 2021               
Individually evaluated for impairment  $   $-   $- 
Collectively evaluated for impairment       2,510,249    2,510,249 
   $   $2,510,249   $2,510,249 
                
Allowance for loan losses at June 30, 2021               
Individually evaluated for impairment  $   $   $ 
Collectively evaluated for impairment       25,269    25,269 
   $   $25,269   $25,269 

 

At June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021, no loans were past due, classified as non-accrual or considered impaired.

 

12

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 5. Property and equipment, net

 

Property and equipment consist of the following:

 

  

June 30,

2022

  

December 31,

2021

 
   (Unaudited)     
Equipment  $36,872   $28,080 
Office furniture   7,070    7,070 
    43,942    35,150 
Less: accumulated depreciation   (30,751)   (28,799)
Property and equipment, net  $13,191   $6,351 

 

Depreciation expense was $1,952 and $865 for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021, respectively.

 

Note 6. Related party transactions

 

Corporate allocations

 

Corporate allocations include overhead expenses such as information technology, customer support, marketing, executive compensation and other general and administrative expenses that are attributed to the Branches proportionately based on the relative size of the specific identifiable customer deposits to the consolidated Parent.

 

Account Servicing Agreement

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF, LLC (“SHF”) entered into an Account Servicing Agreement with PCCU. SHF provides services as per the agreement to CRB accounts at PCCU. In addition to providing the services, SHF assumes the costs associated with the CRB accounts. These costs include employees to manage account onboarding, monitoring and compliance, rent and office expense, insurance and other operating expenses necessary to service these accounts. Under the agreement, PCCU agrees to pay SHF all revenue generated from CRB accounts. Amounts due to SHF are due monthly in arrears and upon receipt of invoice. The agreement is for an initial term of 3 years from the effective date. It shall renew thereafter for 1-year terms until either SHF or PCCU provide sixty days prior written notice. The agreement was amended and restated in conjunction with the contemplated Business Combination with substantially similar terms.

 

Pursuant to this agreement, as amended and restated, the Company reported revenue of $1,808,640 and $3,436,731 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and $0 for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2021.

 

Support Services Agreement

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF entered into a Support Services Agreement with PCCU. In connection with PCCU hosting the depository accounts and the related loans and providing certain infrastructure support, PCCU receives (and SHF pays) a monthly fee per depository account. In addition, 25% of any investment income associated with CRB deposits is paid to PCCU. The respective duties and obligations as per the agreement commenced on the effective date and continue unless terminated by either SHF or PCCU upon giving sixty days prior written notice. The agreement was amended and restated in conjunction with the contemplated Business Combination with substantially similar terms.

 

13

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Pursuant to these agreements and as amended and restated, the Company reported expense of $131,742 and $215,550 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and $0 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2021.

 

Significant terms of the Amended and Restated Accounting Servicing Agreement and Support Services Agreement are as follows:

 

  Pursuant to the Account Servicing Agreement, SHF’s fees for such services will equal all cannabis-related income, including all lending-related income (such as loan origination fees, interest income on CRB-related loans, participation fees and servicing fees), investment income, interest income, account activity fees, processing fees, flat fees, and other revenue generated from cannabis and multi-state hemp accounts that are hosted on PCCU’s core system. The Account Servicing Agreement and Support Services Agreement are for an initial term of three years and will renew for additional one-year terms unless a party provides 120 days’ notice of non-renewal, provided that PCCU may not provide notice of non-renewal until 30 months following the signing date. The Account Servicing Agreement will also terminate within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a “credit union service organization” (a “CUSO”) or within 60 days of the assumption by a third party of all CRB-related accounts. On May 23, 2022, SHF and PCCU entered into the Second Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement and Support Services Agreement, which agreement amended and restated the Amended and Restated Account Servicing and Support Services Agreements to remove the provision providing for the termination of the agreements within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a “credit union service organization,” as SHF will cease to qualify as a CUSO following the closing of the Business Combination.
     
  Pursuant to the Support Services Agreement, as amended, PCCU will continue to provide to SHF certain operational and administrative services relating to, among other things, human resources, employee benefits, IT and systems, accounting and marketing and capacity for CRB depository accounts for a monthly fee equal to $30.96 per account in 2022 and $25.32 per account in 2023 and 2024. In addition, investment income from CRB-related cash and investments (excluding loans) will be shared 25% to PCCU and 75% to SHF and SHF will reimburse PCCU for any of its out-of-pocket expenses relating to the services provided to SHF. The Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement also sets forth certain agreements of PCCU to limit bonus distributions to its members to $30,000,000 during any 12-month period following the effective date of the agreement. Finally, under the Support Services Agreement PCCU will continue to allow its ratio of CRB-related deposits to total assets to equal at least 65% unless otherwise dictated by regulatory, regulator or policy requirements. The below schedule demonstrates deposit capacity at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021.

 

  

June 30,

2022

  

December 31,

2021

 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
PCCU total assets  $588,723,409   $575,170,939 
Capacity at 65%   382,670,216    373,861,110 
CRB related deposits   142,103,552    146,267,976 
Incremental capacity  $240,566,664   $227,593,134 

 

PCCU policy also requires they maintain an internal ratio of net worth to total assets of at least 10%. CRB related deposit capacity maybe limited if PCCU ratio declines below this threshold.

 

14

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Loan Servicing Agreement

 

Effective February 11, 2022, SHF entered into a Loan Servicing Agreement with PCCU. The agreement sets forth the application, underwriting and approval process for loans from PCCU to CRB customers and the loan servicing and monitoring responsibilities provided by both PCCU and SHF. PCCU will receive a monthly servicing fee at the annual rate of 0.25% of the then-outstanding principal balance of each loan funded by PCCU. For the loans that are subject to this agreement, SHF originates the loans and performs all compliance analysis, credit analysis of the potential borrower, due diligence and underwriting and all administration, including hiring and incurring the costs of all related personnel or third-party vendors necessary to perform these services. Under the Loan Servicing Agreement, SHF has agreed to indemnify PCCU from all claims related to default-related loan losses as defined in the Loan Servicing Agreement. The agreement is for an initial term of three years and will renew for additional one-year terms unless a party provides 120 days’ notice of non-renewal or there is a termination for cause, provided that PCCU may not provide notice of non-renewal until 30 months following the signing date. The agreement was amended and restated in conjunction with the contemplated Business Combination with substantially similar terms.

 

SHF’s loan program currently depends on PCCU as SHF’s largest funding source for new loans to CRBs. Under PCCU’s loan policy for loans to CRBs, PCCU’s Board of Directors has approved aggregate lending limits at the lessor of 1.3125 times PCCU’s net worth or 65% of total CRB deposits. Concentration limits for the deployment of loans are further categorized as i) real estate secured, ii) construction, iii) unsecured and iv) mixed collateral with each category limited to a percentage of PCCU’s net worth. In addition, loans to any one borrower or group of associated borrowers are limited by applicable National Credit Union Association regulations to the greater of $100,000 or 15% of PCCU’s net worth.

 

The below schedule demonstrates the ratio of CRB related loans funded by PCCU to the relative lending limits at June 30, 2022. No amounts were funded prior to January 1, 2022.

 

  

June 30,

2022

  

December 31,

2021

 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
CRB related deposits  $142,103,552   $146,267,976 
Capacity at 65%   92,367,309    95,074,184 
PCCU net worth   54,239,445    61,925,336 
Capacity at 1.3125   71,189,272    81,227,003 
Limiting capacity  $71,189,272   $81,227,003 
PCCU loans funded   13,628,042     
Amounts available under lines of credit   496,958    225,000 
Incremental capacity  $57,064,272   $81,002,003 

 

Pursuant to this agreement, the Company reported expenses of $3,731 and $5,104 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and $0 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2021.

 

Collectively the Account Servicing Agreement, Support Servicing Agreement and Loan Servicing Agreement are referred to as the “Parent Agreements”.

 

Operating leases

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF entered into a one-year gross lease with PCCU to lease space in its existing office at a monthly rent of $5,400. Effective July 1, 2022, the Company amended its existing lease to a month-to-month lease and therefore no asset or liability amounts are reported pursuant to ASC 842.

 

15

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 7. Revenue

 

Disaggregated revenue

 

Revenue by type are as follows:

 

For the three-month period ended June 30,  2022   2021 
    (Unaudited)    (Unaudited)  
Deposit, activity, onboarding income  $1,342,895   $1,598,713 
Safe Harbor Program income   44,149    120,855 
Investment income   283,147    82,050 
Loan interest income   182,598    28,696 
Total Revenue  $1,852,789   $1,830,314 

 

For the six-month period ended June 30,  2022   2021 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Deposit, activity, onboarding income  $2,809,764   $3,094,267 
Safe Harbor Program income   87,168    275,850 
Investment income   377,133    160,061 
Loan interest income   249,834    50,417 
Total Revenue  $3,523,899   $3,580,595 

 

Note 8. Employee benefits

 

PCCU has a qualified, contributory 401(k) plan (“Plan”) covering substantially all full-time employees. The Plan allows employees to defer a portion of their salary into the Plan. PCCU matches a portion of employees’ wage reductions. Plan costs are accrued and funded on a current basis. The Carved-Out Operations incurred plan costs of $9,757 and $17,855 for the three-months and six-months ended June 30, 2021. During July 2021, the Company adopted a similar 401(k) plan in conjunction with an agreement with a professional employer organization. The Company incurred plan costs $13,640 and $25,430 for the three-months and six-months ended June 30, 2022.

 

Note 9. Commitments and contingencies

 

From time to time, the Company is subject to claims in legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. The Company does not believe that it is currently party to any pending legal action that could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our business or operating results.

 

Indemnity Liability

 

As discussed at Note 6, and pursuant to PCCU Agreements, PCCU funds loans originated and serviced by SHF either directly or through a third-party vendor. SHF retains the associated interest and pays PCCU a fee at an annual rate of 0.25% of the outstanding loan principal. The below schedule details outstanding amounts funded by PCCU and categorized as either collateralized loans or unsecured loans and lines of credit. No loans were funded by PCCU prior to January 1, 2022.

 

  

June 30,

2022

  

December 31,

2021

 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Secured term loans  $13,100,000   $ 
Unsecured loans and lines of credit   528,042     
Total loans funded by Parent  $13,628,042   $ 

 

16

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

All amounts were performing at June 30, 2022. Secured loans contained an interest rate ranging from 8.25% to 12.0%. Unsecured loans and lines of credit contain variable rates ranging from Prime + 1.5% to Prime + 6%. Unsecured lines of credit had incremental availability of $496,958 and $225,000 at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2022.

 

SHF’s indemnity liability reflects SHF management’s estimate of probable loan losses inherent under the agreement at the balance sheet date. Management uses a disciplined process and methodology to establish the liability, and the estimates are sensitive to risk ratings assigned to individual loans covered by the agreement as well as economic assumptions driving the estimation model. Individual loan risk ratings are evaluated at least a quarterly based on each situation by SHF management. Given the Company’s limited lending history, the estimate is based on risk adjusted national charge off rates as published by the US Federal Reserve.

 

The indemnity liability activity is as follows:

 

   June 30,
2022
 
   (Unaudited) 
     
Beginning balance  $ 
Charge-offs    
Recoveries    
Provision   288,505 
Ending balance  $288,505 

 

All loans were current and considered performing at June 30, 2022.

 

SHF has agreed to indemnify PCCU from all claims related to SHF’s cannabis-related business. Other than potential loan losses, no other circumstances were identified meeting the requirements of a loss contingency.

 

Expense amounts included in the loan loss provision associated with the indemnity were $230,118 and $288,505 for the three and six months ending June 30, 2022 and $0 for the three and six months ending June 30, 2021.

 

Note 10. Financial Instruments

 

FASB ASC 825, “Financial Instruments”, requires disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not recognized in the balance sheet. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value of future cash flows or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. In that regard, the derived fair value estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets and, in many cases, could not be realized in immediate settlement of the instruments. FASB ASC 825 excludes certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial instruments from its disclosure requirements.

 

With the exceptions of loans receivable, the Company considers the carrying amounts of its financial instruments (cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable) in the balance sheet to approximate fair value because of the short-term or highly liquid nature of these financial instruments.

 

The Company does not record loans at fair value on a recurring basis. Currently all loans are performing with no impairment. Utilizing rates between 0% and 10%, which are considered Level 3 unobservable inputs, and a discounted cash flow model, we have estimated the fair value of our loan portfolio as of June 30, 2022 to approximate $1,894,640 as compared to their carrying value, excluding allowances for loan losses, of $1,953,379. The estimated fair value at December 31, 2021 was $1,417,637 as compared to a carrying value, excluding allowances for loan losses, of $1,478,343.

 

17

 

 

EAGLE LEGACY SERVICES, PLLC D/B/A SAFE HARBOR SERVICES, SHF, LLC AND BRANCHES 52 AND 53

CARVED OUT OF PARTNER COLORADO CREDIT UNION

COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 11. Subsequent Events

 

As previously disclosed, on February 11, 2022, SHF Holdings, Inc. (f/k/a Northern Lights Acquisition Corp.), and 5AK, LLC, the SHF Holdings, Inc.’s sponsor, entered into a definitive unit purchase agreement SHF, LLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial, a Colorado limited liability company, SHF Holding Co., LLC, the sole member of SHF, LLC, and Partner Colorado Credit Union, the sole member of the SHF Holding, LLC, whereby SHF Holdings, Inc. will purchase all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of the SHF, LLC.

 

On September 28, 2022, the parties consummated the Business Combination, resulting in SHF Holdings, Inc. purchasing all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of the SHF, LLC in exchange for an aggregate of $185,000,000, consisting of (i) 11,386,139 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock with an aggregate value equal to $115,000,000 and (ii) $70,000,000 in cash, $56,949,800.66 of which will be paid on a deferred basis.

 

The purpose of deferral is to provide SHF Holdings, Inc. with additional cash to support its post-closing activities. Pursuant to the third amendment to the unit purchase agreement, they will pay the deferred consideration in one payment of $21,949,800.66 on or before December 15, 2022, and the $35,000,000 balance in six equal installments of $6,416,667, payable beginning on the first business day following April 1, 2023 and on the first business day of each of the following five fiscal quarters, for a total of $38,500,002. Further, Partner Colorado Credit Union agreed to defer $3,143,388, representing certain excess cash of SHF, LLC due to the Seller under the definitive unit purchase agreement, and the reimbursement of certain reimbursable expenses under the definitive unit purchase agreement.

 

Based upon our review, other than the events included in the above notes, the Company did not identify any subsequent events that would have required adjustment or disclosure in the financial statement.

 

Note 12. Proforma Basis of Presentation

 

Effective July 1, 2021, and subsequent to the reorganization, SHF entered into an Account Servicing Agreement with PCCU. SHF shall provide services as per the agreement to CRB accounts at PCCU. In addition to providing the services, SHF shall assume the costs associated with the CRB accounts. Under the agreement, PCCU agrees to pay SHF all revenue generated from CRB accounts. Amounts due to SHF are due monthly in arrears and upon receipt of invoice. The agreement is for an initial term of 3 years from the effective date. It shall renew thereafter for 1-year terms until either SHF or PCCU provide sixty days prior written notice.

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF entered into a Support Services Agreement with PCCU. In connection with PCCU hosting the depository accounts and the related loans and providing certain infrastructure support, PCCU receives (and SHF pays) a monthly fee per depository account. The respective duties and obligations as per the agreement commenced on the effective date and continue unless terminated by either SHF or PCCU upon giving sixty days prior written notice.

 

On February 11, 2022, SHF and SHF Holding Co., LLC, the sole member of SHF, and PCCU, the sole member of SHF Holding, Co., LLC entered into a definitive purchase agreement with Northern Lights Acquisition Corp., a special purpose acquisition company and its sponsor, 5AK, LLC. Refer to Note 6 for additional information. Pursuant to the purchase agreement the Company entered into amended services agreements under similar terms as the July 2021 agreements.

 

The below schedule demonstrates the estimated impact these agreements would have on the income statement for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Three Months Ended     2021 (Unaudited) 
June 30,     Reported   Adj   Adjusted 
Revenue  (1)  $1,830,314   $   $1,830,314 
Operating expense  (2)   1,113,143    (48,986)   1,064,157 
Net income and comprehensive income     $717,171   $48,986   $766,157 

 

Six Months Ended     2021 (Unaudited) 
June 30,     Reported   Adj   Adjusted 
Revenue  (1)  $3,580,595   $   $3,580,595 
Operating expense  (2)   1,975,021    (13,592)   1,961,429 
Net income and comprehensive income     $1,605,574   $13,592   $1,619,166 

 

(1) The reported financial statements include all CRB account related revenue. As a result, no adjustment is necessary for revenue.
(2) Adjustments to operating expense include the removal of corporate allocations and the inclusion of fees under the new services agreements including i) the per account hosting fee, (ii) 25% shared investment income fee and (iii) loan servicing fee equal to 25 basis points of the average outstanding loan principal balance for loans funded by PCCU. During the three-months and six-months ended June 30, 2021, no loans were held at PCCU subject to the loan servicing fee. In addition, as corporate allocations were removed, we included an adjustment for PCCU CEO base salary prior to July 1, 2021 plus a 30% benefit charge as this individual became the Safe Harbor CEO effective July 1, 2021. The 30% benefit charge is consistent with the historical experience of the Company.

 

18

 

 

Exhibit 99.2

 

Introduction

 

The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information presents the combination of the financial information of NLIT and SHF, adjusted to give effect to the Business Combination and related transactions. The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X as amended by the final rule, Release No. 33-10786 “Amendments to Financial Disclosures about Acquired and Disposed Businesses.”

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2022 combines the historical balance sheet of NLIT and the historical balance sheet of SHF on a pro forma basis as if the Business Combination and related transactions, summarized below, had been consummated on June 30, 2022. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 combines the historical statements of operations of NLIT and SHF for such periods on a pro forma basis as if the Business Combination and related transactions, summarized below, had been consummated on January 1, 2021, the beginning of the earliest period presented. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2022 combines the historical statements of operations of NLIT and SHF for such periods on a pro forma basis as if the Business Combination and related transactions, summarized below, had been consummated on January 1, 2021.

 

Description of the Business Combination and Related Transactions

 

On February 11, 2022, the Company entered into the Purchase Agreement with SHF, the Seller and PCCU, pursuant to which, among other things and subject to the terms and conditions contained in the Purchase Agreement, the Company will acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding membership interests of SHF. After giving effect to the Business Combination, SHF will continue as a subsidiary of the Company, and the Seller, PCCU, or both will hold a portion of the Company’s Class A Stock. The transaction closed September 28, 2022.

 

Subject to the terms of the Purchase Agreement set forth therein, the aggregate consideration paid in connection with the Business Combination was $185.0 million, paid in $115.0 million worth of newly-issued Class A Stock and $70.0 million in cash consideration.

 

Other related events in connection with the Business Combination are summarized below:

 

The 2,875,000 of Founder Class B Stock converted at the Closing to an equal number of shares of Class A Stock.
   
Upon Closing of the Business Combination, 11,386,139 shares of Class A Stock were issued to the Seller as set forth in and pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement.
   
 The Seller was due to receive a cash payment of $3.1 million at the consummation of the Business Combination, which represented the amount of SHF’s cash on hand at July 31, 2021 less accrued but unpaid liabilities. In addition, pursuant to the terms of the purchase agreement, the Company is responsible for reimbursing the Seller for its transaction expenses.

 

Approximately $56.9 million of the $70.0 million of cash proceeds due to PCCU was deferred and is due to the Seller. Approximately $21.9 million of the amount is payable to PCCU beginning December 15, 2022. The residual $35.0 million is due in six quarterly installments of $6.4 million thereafter. Interest accrues at an effective annual rate of approximately 7.7%. 1,200,000 Founder shares were escrowed until the amount is paid in full.

 

Immediately prior to the Closing, 20,450 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred were purchased by the PIPE Investors pursuant to the PIPE Securities Purchase Agreements for an aggregate value of $20,450,000. The shares of Series A Convertible Preferred are convertible into 2,045,000 shares of Class A Stock assuming a purchase price of $10.00 per share of Class A Stock. 20% of the aggregate value was deposited into a third party escrow account for purposes of paying the PIPE Investors any required Registration Delay Payments. Upon the filing of a registration statement 10 calendar days subsequent to closing, 17.5% of the escrow amount will be released with the remaining amount released once all securities are included in an effective registration statement.

 

 
 

 

Forward Purchase Agreement. On June 16, 2022, NLIT entered into a Forward Purchase Agreement with Midtown East Management NL, LLC (“Midtown East”). Subsequent to entering into the Forward Purchase Agreement, the Company, the Target, and Midtown East entered into assignment and novation agreements with Verdun Investments LLC (“Verdun”) and Vellar Opportunity Fund SPV LLC – Series 1 (“Vellar”), pursuant to which Midtown East assigned its obligations as to 1,666,666 shares of the shares of Class A Stock to be purchased under the Forward Purchase Agreement to each of Verdun and Vellar. In accordance with and as contemplated by the Forward Purchase Agreement, Midtown East, Verdun and Vellar collectively purchased approximately 3.8 million shares of NLIT Class A common stock from stockholders prior to the Closing. As contemplated by the Forward Purchase Agreement:

 

Prior to the Closing, Midtown East, Verdun and Vellar purchased approximately 3.8 million shares of NLIT Class A common stock directly from investors at market price in the public market. Midtown East and other counterparties waived their redemption rights with respect to the acquired shares;

 

One business day following the Closing, NLIT paid approximately $39.3 million from the cash held in its trust account to Midtown East; Verdun and Vellar for the shares purchased and approximately $0.3 million in related expense amounts.

 

At any time prior to the Maturity Date (defined as the earlier of i) the third anniversary of the Closing of the Business Combination, ii) the shares are delisted from The Nasdaq Stock Market or (iii) during any 30 consecutive Scheduled Trading Day-period following the closing of the Business Combination, the VWAP Price for 20 Scheduled Trading Days during such period shall be less than $3.00 per share), Midtown East, Verdun and Vellar may elect an optional early termination to sell some or all of the shares (the “Terminated Shares”) of Class A Stock in the open market. If Midtown East, Verdun and Vellar sell any shares prior to the Maturity Date, the pro-rata portion of the Reset Price will be released from the escrow account and paid to SHF. Midtown East, Verdun and Vellar shall retain any proceeds in excess of the Reset Price that is paid to SHF.

 

At the Maturity Date, Midtown East, Verdun and Vellar shall be entitled to (1) the product of the shares then held by them multiplied by the Forward Price, and (2) an amount, in cash or shares at the sole discretion of NLIT, equal to (a) in the case of cash, the product of (i)(x) 3.8 million shares less (y) the number of Terminated Shares and (ii) $2.00 (the “Maturity Cash Consideration”) and (b) in the case of shares, (i) the Maturity Cash Consideration divided by (ii) the VWAP Price for the 30 Scheduled Trading Days prior to the Maturity Date.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet does not purport to represent, and is not necessarily indicative of, what the actual financial condition of the combined company would have been had the Business Combination taken place on June 30, 2022, nor is it indicative of the financial condition of the combined company as of any future date. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations do not purport to represent, and are not necessarily indicative of, what the actual results of operations of the combined company would have been had the Business Combination taken place on January 1, 2021, nor are they indicative of the results of operations of the combined company for any future period. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information should be read in conjunction with:

 

  the accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements;
     
  the historical audited financial statements of NLIT as of December 31, 2021 and for the period from February 26, 2021 (inception) through December 31, 2021, included in NLIT’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 25, 2022.
     
  the historical unaudited financial statements of NLIT as of, and for the three months ended, March 31, 2022, included in NLIT’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 16, 2022;

 

 
 

 

  the historical unaudited financial statements of NLIT as of, and for the three and six months ended, June 30, 2022, included in NLIT’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 22, 2022;
     

 

 

the historical audited financial statements of SHF as of, and for the year ended, December 31, 2021, incorporated into the Current Report on Form 8-K to which this Exhibit 99.2 is attached from the definitive proxy statement;
     
  the historical unaudited financial statements of SHF as of, and for the three months ended, March 31, 2022, included in NLIT’s definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on June 10, 2022; and
     
  the historical unaudited financial statements of SHF as of, and for the three and six months ended, June 30, 2022, included as Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K to which this Exhibit 99.2 is attached; and
     
  Exhibit 99.3 entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” to the Current Report on Form 8-K to which this Exhibit 99.2 is attached.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared to illustrate the effect of the Business Combination and related transactions. It has been prepared in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X and is for informational purposes only and is subject to a number of uncertainties and assumptions as described in the accompanying notes. The pro forma financial information reflects transaction related adjustments management believes are necessary to present fairly SHF’s pro forma results of operations and financial position following the closing of the Business Combination and related transactions as of and for the periods indicated. The related transaction accounting adjustments are based on currently available information and assumptions management believes are, under the circumstances and given the information available at this time, reasonable, and reflective of adjustments necessary to report SHF’s financial condition and results of operations. One-time direct and incremental transaction costs associated with the PIPE offering and incurred prior to, or concurrent with, the Closing are reflected in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as a direct reduction to SHF’s additional capital. The final accounting of the Business Combination, including transaction costs, will be finalized by SHF and reported in the first reporting period following the Closing. Therefore, it is likely that the actual adjustments will differ from the pro forma adjustments and it is possible the difference may be material. SHF believes that its assumptions and methodologies provide a reasonable basis for presenting all of the significant effects of the Business Combination and related transactions contemplated based on information available to management at the time and that the pro forma adjustments give appropriate effect to those assumptions and are properly applied in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information.

 

Accounting for the Business Combination

 

The Business Combination will be accounted for as a reverse recapitalization, with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Under this method of accounting, NLIT is treated as the acquired company for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, for accounting purposes, the Business Combination is treated as the equivalent of SHF issuing shares for the net assets of NLIT, accompanied by a recapitalization. The net assets of NLIT are recognized at fair value (which is expected to be consistent with carrying value), with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded.

 

SHF has been determined to be the accounting acquirer based on evaluation of the following facts and circumstances:

 

  Old SHF’s owner has the largest single voting power position in the post-Business Combination company;

 

  Old SHF management constitutes the majority of management of the post-Business Combination company;

 

  Old SHF’s prior operations comprise the ongoing operations of SHF;

 

 
 

 

  Old SHF is the larger entity based on historical revenues, assets and business operations; and

 

  SHF assumed Old SHF’s operating name and assumed Old SHF’s headquarters.

 

Basis of Pro Forma Presentation

 

The following summarizes the pro forma shares of Class A Stock issued and outstanding immediately after the Closing, taking into consideration actual redemptions:

 

   Shares 
SHF Stockholders   11,386,139 
Public Stockholders   3,926,598 
PIPE Investors (1)   - 
Founder Shares   3,403,175 
Total Shares   18,715,912 

 

(1)PIPE investors initial shares represent preferred stock without voting rights. Preferred stock initially converts at $10 per share which would result in an additional 2,045,000 shares of Class A Stock.

 

 
 

 

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET

As of June 30, 2022

 

   (A)   (B)   Transaction       
   SHF   NLIT   Accounting     Pro Forma 
   (Historical)   (Historical)   Adjustments     Combined 
Assets                      
Current assets:                      
Cash and cash equivalents  $6,382,448   $172,441   $40,443,959  (1)  $6,467,851 
              (39,285,754) (2)     
              16,360,000  (3)     
              (4,555,044) (4)     
              (13,050,199) (5)     
Accounts receivable   721,636    -    -      721,636 
Contract assets   27,710    -    -      27,710 
Short-term loans receivable   55,711    -    -      55,711 
Due from PIPE investors   -    -    4,090,000  (3)   4,090,000 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   34,233    205,000    -      239,233 
Total Current Assets   7,221,738    377,441    4,002,962      11,602,141 
                       
Property, plant and equipment   13,191    -    -      13,191 
Long-term loans receivable, net   1,865,367    -    -      1,865,367 
Deferred offering costs   -    201,405    (201,405) (6)   - 
Prepaid expenses   -    -    900,000  (4)   900,000 
Other assets   1,867    -    -      1,867 
Forward purchase receivable   -    -    39,285,754  (2)   39,285,754 
Deferred tax asset   -    -    45,573,626  (7)   45,573,626 
Marketable securities held in Trust Account   -    118,450,000    (118,450,000) (1)   - 
Total Assets  $9,102,163   $119,028,846   $(28,889,063)    $99,241,946 
                       
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                      
Current Liabilities                      
Accounts payable and accrued expenses  $383,499   $2,187,553   $4,295,245  (8), (5), (4)  $6,866,297 
Due to seller - current portion   -    -    32,476,743  (9)   32,476,743 
Note payable - underwriting fees   -    -    2,166,250  (10)   2,166,250 
Deferred revenue   -    -    -      - 
Total current liabilities   383,499    2,187,553    38,938,237      41,509,289 
                       
Warrant liabilities   -    1,394,453    -      1,394,453 
Forward purchase derivative liability   -    795,942    -      795,942 
Advance from sponsor   -    1,150,000    -      1,150,000 
Indemnity liability   288,505    -    -      288,505 
Net deferred loan origination fees   118,116    -    -      118,116 
Due to seller   -    -    24,473,058  (9)   24,473,058 
Deferred underwriter fee payable   -    4,025,000    (4,025,000) (10)   - 
Total Liabilities   790,120    9,552,948    59,386,295      69,729,363 
                       
Common stock subject to possible redemption   -    79,259,819    (79,259,819) (11)   - 
                       
Parent-Entity Net Investment and Stockholders’ Equity                      
Preferred Stock   -    -    2  (3)   2 
Class A common stock   -    433    12  (11)   1,872 
              1,139  (5)     
              288  (12)     
Class B common stock   -    288    (288) (12)   - 
Additional paid in capital   -    38,039,801    1,253,766  (11)   23,065,848 
              20,449,998  (3)     
              (1,306,085) (13)     
              (80,968,970) (5)     
              44,997,742  (7)     
              (201,405) (6)     
              801,000  (14)     
Parent Entity Net Investment and Accumulated deficit   8,312,043    (7,824,443)   (1,642,066) (4)   6,444,861 
              7,824,443  (5)     
              575,884  (7)     
              (801,000) (14)     
Total Parent-Entity Net Investment and Stockholders’ Equity   8,312,043    30,216,079    (9,015,540)     29,512,582 
Total Liabilities and Parent-Entity Net Investment and Stockholders’ Equity  $9,102,163   $119,028,846   $(28,889,063)    $99,241,946 

 

 
 

 

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

   (A)   (B)   Transaction       
   SHF   NLIT   Accounting     Pro Forma 
   (Historical)   (Historical)   Adjustments     Combined 
Revenue  $3,523,899   $-   $-     $3,523,899 
                       
Operating Expenses                      
Compensation and employee benefits   1,517,522    -    -      1,517,522 
Professional services   319,030    -    -      319,030 
Rent expense   51,328    -    -      51,328 
Corporate allocations   -    -    -      - 
Provision for loan losses   306,065    -    -      306,065 
Selling, general and administrative expenses   492,010    2,593,830    -      3,085,840 
Total operating expenses   2,685,955    2,593,830    -      5,279,785 
Operating income (loss)   837,944    (2,593,830)   -      (1,755,886)
                       
Interest expense   -    -    (598,435) (1)   (598,435)
Interest earned on marketable securities held in trust account   -    147,108    (147,108) (2)   - 
Change in fair value of warrant liability   -    1,432,423    -      1,432,423 
Change in fair value of forward purchase option derivative liability   -    (14,872)   -      (14,872)
Offering costs allocated to warrants   -    -    -      - 
Other income (expense), net   -    -    -      - 
Unrealized gain from marketable securities held in Trust Account   -    -    -      - 
Income (loss) before taxes   837,944    (1,029,171)   (745,543)     (936,770)
Provision for income taxes   -    (13,526)   575,884  (3)   562,358 
Net income (loss)  $837,944   $(1,042,697)  $(169,659)    $(374,412)
                       
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic   -    14,903,175    3,812,737  (4)   18,715,912 
Basic net loss per share  $-   $(0.07)         $(0.02)
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted   -    14,903,175    3,812,737  (4)   18,715,912 
Diluted net loss per share  $-   $(0.07)         $(0.02)

 

 
 

 

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS 

Year Ended December 31, 2021

 

   (C)   (D)   Transaction       
   SHF   NLIT   Accounting     Pro Forma 
   (Historical)   (Historical)   Adjustments     Combined 
Revenue  $7,005,579   $-   $-     $7,005,579 
                       
Operating Expenses                      
Compensation and employee benefits   2,135,243    -    801,000  (5)   2,936,243 
Professional services   292,143    -    -      292,143 
Rent expense   73,482    -    -      73,482 
Corporate allocations   648,533    -    -      648,533 
Provision for loan losses   1,399    -    -      1,399 
Selling, general and administrative expenses   567,892    719,110    1,642,066  (6)   2,929,068 
Total operating expenses   3,718,692    719,110    2,443,066      6,880,868 
Operating income (loss)   3,286,887    (719,110)   (2,443,066)     124,711 
                       
Interest expense   -    -    (2,780,838) (1)   (2,780,838)
Change in fair value of warrant liability   -    2,204,598    -      2,204,598 
Offering costs allocated to warrants   -    (261,838)   -      (261,838)
Unrealized gain from marketable securities held in Trust Account   -    21,508    (21,508) (2)   - 
Income (loss) before taxes   3,286,887    1,245,158    (5,245,412)     (713,367)
Provision for income taxes   -    -    633,795  (3)   633,795 
Net income (loss)  $3,286,887   $1,245,158   $(4,611,617)    $(79,572)
                       
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic   -    10,138,768    8,577,144  (4)   18,715,912 
Basic net income (loss) per share  $-   $0.12          $- 
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted   -    10,138,768    8,577,144  (4)   18,715,912 
Diluted net income (loss) per share  $-   $0.12          $- 

 

 
 

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1. Basis of Presentation

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been adjusted to give effect to transaction accounting adjustments related to the Business Combination linking the effects of the Business Combination to the historical financial information.

 

The Business Combination will be accounted for as a reverse recapitalization in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification Topic 805, Business Combinations. SHF has been determined to be the accounting acquirer. Under the reverse recapitalization model, the Business Combination will be treated as SHF issuing equity for the net assets of the Company, with no goodwill or intangible assets recorded.

 

The pro forma adjustments have been prepared as if the Business Combination had been consummated on June 30, 2022, in the case of the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet, and on January 1, 2021, the beginning of the earliest period presented, in the case of the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations.

 

The pro forma combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2022 has been prepared using the following:

 

  SHF’s historical combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2022.
  The Company’s historical balance sheet as of June 30, 2022.

 

The pro forma combined statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2022 has been prepared using the following:

 

  SHF’s historical and Carved-Out combined statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2022.
  The Company’s historical statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2022.

 

The pro forma combined statement of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021 has been prepared using the following:

 

  SHF’s historical and Carved-Out combined statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.

 

 
 

 

  The Company’s historical statement of operations for the period from February 26, 2021 (inception) through December 31, 2021.

 

The adjustments presented in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information have been identified and presented to provide relevant information necessary for an accurate understanding of the post-combination company after giving effect to the Business Combination. Management has made significant estimates and assumptions in its determination of the pro forma adjustments. As the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared based on these preliminary estimates, the final amounts recorded may differ materially from the information presented.

 

The pro forma adjustments reflecting the consummation of the Business Combination are based on certain currently available information and certain assumptions and methodologies that management believes are reasonable under the circumstances. The unaudited condensed pro forma adjustments, which are described in the accompanying notes, may be revised as additional information becomes available and is evaluated. Therefore, it is likely that the actual adjustments will differ from the pro forma adjustments and it is possible the difference may be material. Management believes that its assumptions and methodologies provide a reasonable basis for presenting all of the significant effects of the Business Combination based on information available to management at this time and that the pro forma adjustments give appropriate effect to those assumptions and are properly applied in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information is not necessarily indicative of what the actual results of operations and financial position would have been had the Business Combination taken place on the dates indicated, nor are they indicative of the future consolidated results of operations or financial position of the post-combination company. They should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements and notes thereto of SHF and the Company.

 

2. Adjustments to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2022

 

The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X.

 

The Transaction Accounting Adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2022 are as follows:

 

(A) Derived from the unaudited combined balance sheet of SHF as of June 30, 2022.
   
(B) Derived from the unaudited balance sheet of the Company as of June 30, 2022.

 

(1) To reflect the release of cash from marketable securities held in the Trust Account less the redemption amount associated with 7,573,402 redeemed shares at the redemption price of $10.30 per share.
   
(2) Represents the reduction of cash for the Prepayment Amount relating to the Forward Purchase Agreement and the recognition of the corresponding receivable, pursuant to the Forward Purchase Agreement. Reflects shares purchased under the forward purchase agreement equal to 3,804,872 shares at a redemption price of approximately $10.33 per share.
   
(3) Reflects proceeds received of $20,450,000 from the PIPE Investors in exchange for the issuance of 20,450 PIPE Shares at a price of $1,000 per share less $4,090,000 in amounts placed in escrow. 20% of the aggregate value was deposited into a third-party escrow account for purposes of paying the PIPE Investors any required Registration Delay Payments. Upon the filing of a registration statement 10 calendar days subsequent to closing, 17.5% of the escrow amount will be released with the remaining amount released once all relevant securities are included in an effective registration statement.
   
(4) To reflect the payment of an aggregate of approximately $4.6 million of estimated legal, financial advisory, prepaid insurance, and other professional fees related to the Business Combination including the payment of $0.5 million of accounts payable and accrued expenses, $3.0 million of deferred underwriting fees, the prepayment of $0.9 million of a Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance policy and $0.1 million in direct incremental costs of the Business Combination and $0.1 million of direct costs associated with the PIPE Shares. Direct, incremental costs of the Business Combination related to the legal, financial advisory, accounting and other professional fees of approximately $1.6 million is reflected as an adjustment to accumulated deficit assuming the transaction occurred on January 1, 2021.
   
(5) To reflect the recapitalization of SHF through (a) the contribution of all the share capital in SHF to the Company common stock, (b) the issuance of 11,386,139 shares of Class A Stock, (c) the elimination of the historical accumulated deficit of the Company of $7.8 million, the accounting acquiree, the legal acquiror, (d) the cash payment of $13.1 million to the Seller representing the $70 million cash payment less $56.9 million due to seller, and (e) the accrual for the payment of $3.1 million to PCCU (included in the accounts payable and accrued expenses line item), at the consummation of the Business Combination, which represents the amount of cash on hand at July 31, 2021 less accrued but unpaid liabilities. The amount due to seller is payable with interest in six equal quarterly installments of $6,416,667 beginning April 1, 2023.

 

 
 

 

(6) Deferred offering costs associated with the PIPE capital raise is reclassified to additional paid in capital upon transaction closing.
   

(7)

 

The blended statutory rate for the entity post business combination would be 21%, the consolidated combined pro forma information results in a higher effective tax rate of approximately 62% primarily due to permanent differences associated with the change in the fair value of the Company’s warrants. Refer to footnote (3) below for a reconciliation of the federal statutory rate to the effective tax rate. Deferred income taxes reflect: i) temporary differences in the recognition of revenue and expenses between financial statement and income tax reporting, ii) goodwill amortization for tax purposes and iii) a net operating loss carryforward with no expiration. Deferred income taxes as of June 30, 2022 consisted of the following:

 

Deferred Tax Assets:    
Transaction costs  $851,798 
Start-up costs   18,756 
Share offer   196,440 
Amortization – Goodwill   39,921,858 
Net operating loss   3,907,735 
Loan loss reserve   78,553 
Interest expense disallowance   595,895 
Other   2,046 
Depreciation   545 
Total deferred tax assets  $45,573,626 

 

  For tax purposes, the transaction will be treated as a taxable asset acquisition, resulting in an estimated tax basis Goodwill balance of approximately $180.6 million, creating a deferred tax asset reported as Additional Paid-in Capital in the equity section of the balance sheet as of the date of the business combination
   
(8) Represents i) the accrual for the payment of $3.1 million due to PCCU, at the consummation of the Business Combination, which consists of the amount of cash on hand at July 31, 2021 less accrued but unpaid liabilities and ii) $1.2 million in accrued liabilities associated with incremental, direct transaction expense.
   
(9) Reflects the hold back of $56.9 million in cash proceeds due to the Seller. $21.9 million is payable to PCCU on or before December 15, 2022. The remaining amount is payable to PCCU beginning April 1, 2023 and is due in six quarterly installments thereafter. Interest accrues at an effective rate of approximately 7.7%. 1,200,000 Founder shares were escrowed until the amount is paid in full.
   
(10) Deferred underwriting payable of $4,025,000 related to the IPO in addition to $1,141,250 in underwriting fees associated with the PIPE Shares. Of the total, $3,000,000 was paid in cash at closing (see Note (4)) with $2,166,250 due pursuant to a note payable with $715,750 due on October 14, 2022 and $362,625 on each of October 31, 2022, November 30, 2022, December 31, 2022 and January 31, 2023.
   
(11) Represents the common stock subject to redemption for cash amounting to $79.3 million less the redemption amount of $78.0 million. The $78.0 million, or 7,573,402 shares, represents the actual redemption amount, after giving effect to payments to redeeming stockholders at approximately $10.30 per share based on a consummation of the Business Combination on June 30, 2022. Including shares purchased under the forward purchase agreement, 3,926,598 shares were not redeemed.
   
(12) Reflects the conversion of the 2,875,000 Class B Common Stock to Class A Stock on a one for one basis.
   
(13) Represents $1,141,250 in underwriting fees and $164,835 in direct legal costs associated with the sale of the PIPE shares.
   
(14) During January 2022, the Sponsor offered its Chief Financial Officer the right to acquire 90,000 Founder Shares at the original per share cost. Shares will only be acquired in conjunction with a Business Combination closing. Pursuant to ASC 805-20-55-50 and 55-51 liabilities that will be triggered by consummation of a business combination should be recorded only when the business combination is consummated. In practice, this interpretation of the meaning of probable is applied to other event-based performance conditions subject to significant uncertainty, such as IPOs and other change-in-control and liquidity events. Accordingly, the achievement performance is not deemed to be probable until the consummation of the event, and therefore no compensation cost is recognized until the IPO, change of control, or other liquidity event occurs. As such, the fair value associated with these shares at the time of the offer will be reflected as expense in conjunction with the transaction close. In addition, on March 24, 2021, the Sponsor transferred10,000 shares to the Company’s Chief Financial Officer and 10,000 shares to each of the Company’s three independent directors. 93,175 in shares was also allocated to an advisor. As these shares were transferred prior to the Company IPO, any value associated with these shares is considered negligible as Founder shares were purchased at $0.009 per share in the prior month.

 

 
 

 

Unaudited Condensed Combined Pro Forma Adjustments to the Statements of Operations

 

3. Adjustments to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Operations for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2022 and Year Ended December 31, 2021

 

The transaction accounting adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and year ended December 31, 2021 are as follows:

 

(A) Derived from the unaudited combined statement of operations of SHF for the six months ended June 30, 2022.
   
(B) Derived from the unaudited statement of operations of the Company for the six months ended June 30, 2022.
   
(C) Derived from the audited combined statement of operations of SHF for the year December 31, 2021.

 

(D) Derived from the audited statement of operations of the Company for the period from February 26, 2021 (inception) through December 31, 2021.
   
(1) Represents interest expense associated with the cash hold back. $56.9 million in cash proceeds has been held back and is due to the Seller. $21.9 million is payable to PCCU on or before December 15, 2022. The remaining amount is payable to PCCU beginning April 1, 2023 and is due in six quarterly installments thereafter. Interest accrues at an effective rate of approximately 7.7%. 1,200,000 Founder shares were escrowed until the amount is paid in full.
   
(2) Represents an adjustment to eliminate interest income and unrealized gains on marketable securities held in the trust account as of the beginning of the period.

 

(3) The blended statutory rate for the entity post business combination would be 21%, the consolidated combined pro forma information under both scenarios results in a higher effective tax rate of approximately 62% and 89% for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and the year ended December 31, 2021. The lower effective tax rate is primarily due to a permanent tax difference associated with the change in the fair value of warrants. The following table represents the income tax impact of the pro forma adjustments for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and the year ended December 31, 2021 and a reconciliation of the federal statutory rate and effective income tax rate:

 

   As of 
   June 30,
2022
   December 31,
2021
 
Federal:          
Current  $   $ 
Deferred   (492,509)   (542,036)
           
State and local:          
Current        
Deferred   (83,375)   (91,759)
    (575,884)   (633,795)
Change in valuation allowance        
Income tax provision  $(575,884)  $(633,795)

 

Tax rate:  Six Months
Ended
June 30,
2022
  

Year
Ended

December 31,
2021

 
Tax benefit at federal statutory rate   21.0%   21.0%
Increase (decrease) in tax provision resulting from:          
Warrants – fair market value change   31.6    55.0 
State tax   8.9    12.9 
Effective income tax rate   61.5%   88.9%

 

 
 

 

(4) The calculation of weighted average shares outstanding for basic and diluted net income per share assumes that the Company’s IPO occurred as of the beginning of the earliest period presented. In addition, as the Business Combination is being reflected as if it had occurred at the beginning of the period presented, the calculation of weighted average shares outstanding for basic and diluted net income per share assumes that the shares have been outstanding for the entire period presented. This calculation is retroactively adjusted to eliminate the number of shares redeemed for the entire period. Assuming a conversion price of $10 per share, excludes 2,045,000 in converted PIPE Shares as this amount is considered anti-dilutive.
   
(5) Represents the estimated expense associated with the Chief Financial Officer’s right to acquire 90,000 Founder Shares at the original per share cost. This right was exercised in conjunction with the closing. See footnote #14 in the above balance sheet section.
   
(6) Represents an adjustment to eliminate the effect of the pro forma balance sheet adjustment presented in footnote #4 above in the aggregate amount of $1.6 million for the direct, incremental costs of the Business Combination, assuming those adjustments were made as of the beginning of the fiscal year presented.

 

4. Net Income per Share

 

Represents the net income per share calculated using the historical weighted average shares outstanding, and the issuance of additional shares in connection with the Business Combination and related transactions, assuming the shares were outstanding since January 1, 2021. As the Business Combination and related transactions are being reflected as if they had occurred at the beginning of the period presented, the calculation of weighted average shares outstanding for basic and diluted net income per share assumes that the shares issued in connection with the Business Combination have been outstanding for the entire period presented.

 

   Pro Forma
Combined
 
Six Months Ended June 30, 2022     
Net loss  $(374,412)
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic   18,715,912 
Basic net loss per share  $(0.02)
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted (1)   18,715,912 
Diluted net loss per share  $(0.02)
      
Year Ended December 31, 2021     
Net loss  $(79,572)
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic   18,715,912 
Basic net loss per share  $(0.00)
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted (1)   18,715,912 
Diluted net loss per share  $(0.00)

 

Weighted average shares calculations, basic  Pro Forma
Combined
 
     
Company public shares   3,926,598 
Company initial stockholders’   3,403,175 
SHF stockholders   11,386,139 
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic   18,715,912 

 

Weighted average shares calculations, diluted  Pro Forma
Combined
 
     
Company public shares   3,926,598 
Company initial stockholders’   3,403,175 
PIPE Investors (1)   - 
SHF stockholders   11,386,139 
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted   18,715,912 

 

(1)Assuming a conversion price of $10 per share, excludes 2,045,000 in converted PIPE Shares as this amount is considered anti-dilutive.

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.3

 

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

 

References in this section to “we,” “us,” or “our” refer to SHF. References to “management” refer to our officers and board of managers. The following discussion and analysis of our financial performance and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Forward Looking Statements

 

All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this report, including statements regarding future operations, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “could,” “would,” “expect,” “objective,” “plan,” “potential,” “seek,” “grow,” “target,” “if,” and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, short-term and long-term business operations, objectives, and financial needs.

 

Overview

 

Founded in 2015 by PCCU (please see “Business Reorganization” below for a description of SHF’s organization), SHF’s mission is to provide access to reliable and compliant financial services for the legal cannabis industry. Through that mission and as an early leader with over seven years of experience, SHF is a leading provider of access to reliable and compliance driven banking, lending and other financial services to financial institutions desiring to provide those services to the cannabis industry.

Through our proprietary platform and on a multi-state level, SHF provides access to the following banking related services through PCCU and other financial institutions:

 

  Business checking and savings accounts

 

  Cash management accounts

 

  Savings and investment options

 

  Commercial lending

 

  Courier services (via third party relationships)

 

  Remote deposit services

 

  Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments and origination

 

  Wire payments

 

Our services allow Cannabis Related Businesses (herein referred to as “CRBs”) to obtain services from financial institutions that allow them to run their business more efficiently and effectively with improved financial insight into their business and access to resources to help them grow. Due to limited availability of payment and other banking solutions for the cannabis industry, most businesses transact with high volumes of cash. Our fintech platform benefits CRBs and financial institutions by providing CRBs with access to financial institutions and financial institutions access to increased deposits with the comfort of knowing that those deposits have been compliantly monitored and validated. By facilitating the daily deposits of cash receipts between CRBs and financial institutions, the risks associated with high cash on hand are mitigated, creating a safer atmosphere for the CRB’s employees and the financial institutions at which the deposit accounts are held. Because SHF is not a financial institution, SHF does not hold customer deposits. All deposit accounts are held by SHF’s financial institution clients and all transmissions of funds to and from deposit accounts are handled directly by the financial institutions. In an industry with limited capital and financing options, we offer access to loan options at what we believe to be competitive rates often with less punitive terms than the current industry average. Our financial institution clients offer loan options including senior secured debt and operating lines of debt. Collateral types include real estate, equipment, and other business assets. We also provide access to lending options for ancillary service providers serving the cannabis industry as these businesses also can have difficulty finding reliable financial services.

 

 
 

 

To ensure access to consistent and dependable banking access to CRBs, we provide our compliance, validation and monitoring services to financial institutions in a compliance driven environment ensuring strict adherence to the Bank Secrecy Act/FinCEN guidance and related anti money laundering provisions. Since inception, SHF has assisted PCCU in processing more than $12 billion in cannabis related funds and, through its relationship with PCCU and other financial institutions, SHF has successfully navigated 16 state and federal banking exams.

 

In strategically selected geographic areas, SHF licenses to other financial institutions its proprietary software and Safe Harbor Program (the “Program”) to provide compliance-related services to CRBs. As part of the Program, we provide the following to financial institutions interested in licensing the Program to assist in compliant cannabis banking:

 

  Initial customer due diligence – Know Your Customer

 

  Customer application management

 

  Program management support

 

  Compliance monitoring

 

  Regulatory exam assistance

 

Business Reorganization

 

SHF is the result of Carved-Out Operations (as defined below) of PCCU, a Colorado based credit union. The predecessor to SHF, Eagle Legacy Services, PLLC d/b/a Safe Harbor Services (“SHS” or “Oldco”), was established as a limited liability company, acting as a credit union service organization in accordance with applicable laws, in order to provide financial, lending and operational services primarily to the cannabis industry and cannabis related businesses (“CRBs”). SHS was a wholly owned subsidiary of PCCU. In addition to SHS, the Carved-Out Operations consist of certain Credit Union branches (the “Branches”) of PCCU and SHF. As the business began to scale in 2020, PCCU created two new entities: SHF Holding Co, LLC (“Holdco”), an interim holding company that is directly wholly owned by PCCU, and SHF, an operating entity wholly owned by Holdco. PCCU’s Board of Directors approved the contribution of certain assets and operating activities associated with operations from both the Branches and Oldco to Holdco. Holdco then contributed the same assets and related operations to SHF with PCCU’s investment in SHF maintained at the Holdco level (the “reorganization”). The reorganization effectively occurred July 1, 2021. In conjunction with the reorganization, all Branches’ employees and certain PCCU employees were terminated from PCCU and hired as SHF employees. Collectively, SHS, the Branches and SHF represent the “Carved-Out Operations.” After the reorganization, SHF contains the entirety of the Carved-Out Operations and Oldco was dissolved. SHF does business as Safe Harbor Financial.

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF entered into an Account Servicing Agreement with PCCU, which governed the fees paid by PCCU to SHF for the services provided by SHF until this agreement was amended as described below. Through the Account Servicing Agreement, SHF provided compliance, validation and monitoring services, and facilitated other financial services offered by PCCU to its CRB deposit accounts held and controlled by PCCU. SHF assumed the responsibility for the expenses associated with the services it provided. These costs include employees to manage customer onboarding and compliance, rent and office expense, insurance and other operating expenses necessary to service these accounts. Under the agreement, PCCU paid to SHF all revenue generated from these accounts. Amounts due to SHF were due monthly in arrears and upon receipt of invoice. The agreement was for an initial term of 3 years from the effective date and renewed thereafter for 1-year terms until either SHF or PCCU provided sixty days prior written notice. Pursuant to this agreement as amended and restated (as described below), SHF reported revenue of $1,808,640 and $3,436,731 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, $0 for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2021, and $3,168,243 for the period July 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF entered into a Support Services Agreement with PCCU, which governed the fees paid by SHF to PCCU for the services provided by PCCU until this agreement was amended as described below. In connection with PCCU hosting the deposit accounts and the related loans and providing certain infrastructure support, PCCU received from SHF a monthly fee per deposit account. In addition, 25% of any investment income associated with CRB deposits was paid to PCCU. The respective duties and obligations as per the agreement commenced on the effective date and continued unless terminated by either SHF or PCCU upon giving sixty days prior written notice. Pursuant to this agreement as amended and restated (as described below), SHF reported expense of $131,742 and $215,550 for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2022, $0 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2021, and $190,908 for the period July 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.

 

 
 

 

Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, SHF entered into amended agreements with PCCU under similar terms as the July 2021 agreements. In addition, and in conjunction with the Purchase Agreement, SHF and PCCU entered into a Loan Servicing Agreement. These agreements are intended to reflect that SHF now bears the substantial expenses (i.e., employees, training and technology) resulting from taking on the account onboarding, validation and monitoring functions that PCCU would otherwise have borne directly.

Significant terms of the Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement and Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement are as follows:

 

  Pursuant to the Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement, SHF’s fees for such services will equal all cannabis-related income, including all lending-related income (such as loan origination fees, interest income on CRB-related loans, participation fees and servicing fees), investment income, interest income, account activity fees, processing fees, flat fees, and other revenue generated from cannabis and multi-state hemp accounts that are hosted on PCCU’s core system. The Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement is for an initial term of three years and will renew for additional one-year terms unless a party provides 120 days’ notice of non-renewal, provided that PCCU may not provide notice of non-renewal until 30 months following the signing date. The Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement initially provided that the agreement would terminate within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a “credit union service organization” (a “CUSO”) or within 60 days of the assumption by a third party of all CRB-related accounts; however, on May 23, 2022, SHF and PCCU entered into the Second Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement, which removed the provision providing for the termination of the agreement within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as CUSO, as SHF will cease to qualify as a CUSO following the closing of the Business Combination.

 

  Pursuant to the Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement, PCCU will continue to provide to SHF certain operational and administrative services relating to, among other things, human resources, employee benefits, IT and systems, accounting and marketing and capacity for CRB depository accounts for a monthly fee equal to $30.96 per account in 2022 and $25.32 per account in 2023 and 2024. In addition, as it pertains to CRB deposits held at PCCU, investment and interest income earned on these deposits (excluding interest income on loans funded by PCCU) will be shared 25% to PCCU and 75% to SHF. SHF will also reimburse PCCU for any of its out-of-pocket expenses relating to the services provided to SHF. Finally, under the Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement, PCCU will continue to allow its ratio of CRB-related deposits to total assets to equal at least 65% unless otherwise dictated by regulatory, regulator or policy requirements. The Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement has the same term and termination provisions as the Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement, including a provision providing for the termination of the agreement within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a “credit union service organization.” On May 23, 2022, SHF and PCCU entered into the Second Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement, which removed the provision providing for the termination of the agreement within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a CUSO, as SHF will cease to qualify as a CUSO following the closing of the Business Combination.

 

Effective February 11, 2022, SHF entered into a Loan Servicing Agreement with PCCU. The agreement sets forth the application, underwriting and approval process for loans from PCCU to CRB customers and the loan servicing and monitoring responsibilities provided by both PCCU and SHF. For the loans subject to this agreement, SHF originates the loans and performs all compliance analysis, credit analysis of the potential borrower, due diligence and underwriting and all administration, including hiring and incurring the costs of all related personnel or third-party vendors necessary to perform these services. PCCU receives a monthly servicing fee at an annual rate of 0.25% of the then-outstanding principal balance of each loan funded by PCCU. Under the Loan Servicing Agreement, SHF has agreed to indemnify PCCU from all claims related to default-related loan losses as defined in the Loan Servicing Agreement. The agreement is for an initial term of three years and will renew for additional one-year terms unless a party provides 120 days’ notice of non-renewal or there is a termination for cause, provided that PCCU may not provide notice of non-renewal until 30 months following the signing date. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company reported expenses of $3,731 and $5,104 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and $0 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2021.

 

The SHF lending services program currently depends on PCCU as its largest funding source for new loans to CRBs. Under PCCU’s loan policy for loans to CRBs, PCCU’s board of directors has approved aggregate lending limits at the lessor of 1.3125 times PCCU’s net worth or 65% of total CRB deposits. Concentration limits for the deployment of loans are further categorized as (i) real estate secured, (ii) construction, (iii) unsecured and (iv) mixed collateral with each category limited to a percentage of PCCU’s net worth. In addition, loans to any one borrower or group of associated borrowers are limited by applicable National Credit Union Association regulations to the greater of $100,000 or 15% of PCCU’s net worth.

 

 
 

 

Purchase Agreement and Public Company Costs

 

On February 11, 2021, SHF entered into the Purchase Agreement with the Company, and assuming a favorable vote of the Company’s stockholders and SHF’s managers and satisfaction or waiver of all other closing conditions, the Company will purchase all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of SHF in exchange for an aggregate of $185,000,000, consisting of (i) 11,386,139 shares of the Company’s Class A Stock with an aggregate value equal to $115,000,000 and (ii) $70,000,000 in cash paid to the Seller. At the closing, the Company will deposit 1,831,683 shares of the Class A Stock with an escrow agent to be held in escrow for a period of 12 months following the closing to satisfy potential indemnification claims of the parties.

 

On September 19, 2022, the parties entered into an amendment to the Purchase Agreement to extend the Outside Date from August 31, 2022 until September 28, 2022 and provide for the deferral of $30,000,000 of the $70,000,000 in cash due to the Seller at the Closing, and on September 22, 2022, the parties agreed to a second amendment to the Purchase Agreement providing for the deferral of a total of $50,000,000 of the $70,000,000 due to the Seller at the Closing.

 

On September 28, 2022, the parties agreed to a Third Amendment to Unit Purchase Agreement (the “Third Amendment”) providing for the deferral of a total of $56,949,800.66 (the “Deferred Cash Consideration”) of the $70,000,000 due to the Seller at the closing. The purpose of deferral is to provide the Company with additional cash to support its post-closing activities. Pursuant to the Third Amendment, the Company will pay the Deferred Cash Consideration in one payment of $21,949,800.66 on or before December 15, 2022, and the $35,000,000 balance in six equal installments of $6,416,667, payable beginning on the first business day following April 1, 2023 and on the first business day of each of the following five fiscal quarters, for a total of $38,500,002. Further, PCCU agreed to defer $3,143,388, representing certain excess cash of SHF due to PCCU under the Purchase Agreement, and the reimbursement of certain reimbursable expenses under the Purchase Agreement. The Deferred Cash Consideration may be prepaid by the Company, in whole or in part, at any time. The purpose of deferral is to provide the Company with additional cash to support its post-closing activities.

 

In consideration of the agreement to the foregoing amendments to the Purchase Agreement, and to secure the Company’s payment thereof, Luminous Capital USA Inc., an affiliate of the Sponsor (“Luminous”), has agreed to escrow 1,200,000 of the shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock (the “Escrowed Shares”) to be received by Luminous at the closing of the Business Combination, such escrow to be evidenced by an escrow agreement with a third-party escrow agent reasonably acceptable to the parties and Luminous. The Escrowed Shares will be released to Luminous upon payment in full of the Deferred Cash Consideration. Luminous will meanwhile be entitled to vote all such Escrowed Shares.

 

The Company will amend and restate its Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation in the form of the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation included in this proxy statement as Annex B to, among other matters: (a) change its name to “SHF Holdings Inc.,” or such other name as mutually agreed to by the parties to the Purchase Agreement; (b) expand the board of directors to seven individuals divided into three classes; and (c) remove and change certain provisions in the existing Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation related to the Company’s status as a blank check company. Additionally, each then-outstanding share of Class B Stock of the Company will be converted into one share of Class A Stock.

 

SHF will be deemed the accounting predecessor and the post-combination company will be the successor SEC registrant, which means that SHF’s financial statements for previous periods will be disclosed in the post-combination company’s future periodic reports filed with the SEC.

 

While the legal acquirer in the Purchase Agreement is the Company, for financial accounting and reporting purposes under U.S. GAAP, the Company will be the accounting acquirer and the transaction will be accounted for as a “reverse recapitalization.” A reverse recapitalization does not result in a new basis of accounting, and the financial statements of the post-combination company represent the continuation of the financial statements of SHF in many respects. Under this method of accounting, the Company will be treated as the “acquired” company for financial reporting purposes. For accounting purposes, SHF will be deemed to be the accounting acquirer in the Business Combination and, consequently, the Business Combination will be treated as a recapitalization of SHF (i.e., a capital transaction involving the issuance of stock by the Company for the stock of SHF). Accordingly, the consolidated assets, liabilities, and results of operations of SHF will become the historical financial statements of the post-combination company, and the Company’s assets, liabilities and results of operations will be consolidated with SHF’s beginning on the acquisition date. Operations prior to the closing of the merger will be presented as those of SHF’s in future reports. The net assets of the Company will be recognized at historical cost (which is expected to be consistent with carrying value), with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded. The most significant change in the post-combination company’s future reported financial position and results are expected to be an estimated decrease in cash (as compared to SHF’s consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2022) of approximately $6.1 million assuming 85.7% of the Company’s public stockholders elect to have their shares redeemed, or an estimated increase in cash of approximately $94.4 million, assuming no stockholder redemptions.

 

As a consequence of the Business Combination, SHF will become the successor to an SEC-registered and Nasdaq-listed company which requires SHF to hire additional personnel and implement procedures and processes to address public company regulatory requirements and customary practices. SHF expects to incur additional annual expenses as a public company for, among other things, directors’ and officers’ liability insurance, director fees and additional internal and external accounting and legal and administrative resources, including increased audit and legal fees. See the section entitled “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information” for the estimated impact of these additional expenses following closing of the Business Combination. We incurred approximately $0.1 million to $0.2 million in additional costs prior to closing of the Business Combination, which were not direct costs of the transaction but rather public company readiness costs and thus were expensed to operating expense during the first and second quarters of 2022.

 

 
 

 

Key Metrics

 

In addition to the measures presented in our consolidated financial statements, our management regularly monitors certain measures in the operation of our business. These key metrics are discussed below.

 

Earnings Before Interest Taxes Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) and Adjusted EBITDA

 

To provide investors with additional information regarding our financial results, we have disclosed EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, both of which are non-GAAP financial measures that we calculate as net income before taxes and depreciation and amortization expense in the case of EBITDA and further adjusted to exclude non-cash, unusual and/or infrequent costs in the case of Adjusted EBITDA. Below we have provided a reconciliation of net income (the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure) to EBITDA and from EBITDA to Adjusted EBITDA.

 

We present EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA because these metrics are a key measure used by our management to evaluate our operating performance, generate future operating plans, and make strategic decisions regarding the allocation of investment capacity. Accordingly, we believe that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our operating results in the same manner as our management.

 

EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA have limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. Some of these limitations are as follows:

 

  although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized may have to be replaced in the future, and both EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect cash capital expenditure requirements for such replacements or for new capital expenditure requirements;

 

  EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, our working capital needs; and

 

  EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect tax payments that may represent a reduction in cash available to us.

 

Because of these limitations, you should consider EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA alongside other financial performance measures, including net loss and our other GAAP results.

 

A reconciliation of net income to non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended June 30, 
   2022   2021 
Net income  $336,344   $717,171 
Interest expense        
Depreciation and amortization expense   1,134    420 
Taxes        
EBITDA   337,478    717,591 

 

Other adjustments –          
Loan loss provision  $237,874   $6,825 
Loan origination fees   118,116     
Adjusted EBITDA   693,468    724,416 

 

 
 

 

   Six Months Ended June 30, 
   2022   2021 
Net income  $837,944   $1,605,574 
Interest expense        
Depreciation and amortization expense   1,952    865 
Taxes        
EBITDA   839,896    1,606,439 

 

Other adjustments –          
Loan loss provision  $306,065   $11,927 
Deferred loan origination fees   118,116     
Adjusted EBITDA   1,264,077    1,618,366 

 

The decrease in our income on an EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA basis for the six months ended June 30, 2022 is due to decreased revenue and increased operating expenses, as discussed under “— Discussion of our Results of Operations” below. Other adjustments include estimated future loan losses not yet realized including amounts indemnified to PCCU for loans funded by them. Effective February 2022, SHF entered into a Loan Servicing Agreement with PCCU, pursuant to which SHF has agreed to indemnify PCCU for claims associated with CRB activities including any loan default related losses for loans funded by PCCU. Deferred loan origination fees represents the change in net deferred loan origination fees. When included with a new loan origination, we receive an upfront loan origination fee in conjunction with new loans funded by our financial institution partners. For accounting purposes, the cash received for loan origination fees is initially deferred and recognized as interest income utilizing the interest method.

 

Other Metrics

 

For our business operations, we monitor the following key metrics.

 

Total account balances, number of accounts and average account balances

 

Our lending capacity is dependent on the size of our managed deposit base and number of active accounts. In addition, fees are generated based on open accounts and account activity. We monitor account activity including deposits, withdrawals and ending account balance daily. Total account balances represent the balance of onboarded and monitored deposits on hand at financial institution clients at period end. Average account balance represents the total account balance divided by the number of accounts at the period end.

 

 
 

 

Account fees per average active accounts managed

 

Currently a significant amount of our fees is generated from account openings, active accounts and account activity. As a result, we monitor account openings and closings on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. We strive to meet the appropriate balance between depository balances and fees and therefore review account fees per average number of active accounts managed.

 

Six Months Ended June 30,      2022   2021   Change ($)   Change (%) 
Average monthly ending deposit balance   (1)  $143,785,877   $179,614,518   $(35,828,641)   (19.9)%
Account fees   (2)  $2,809,764   $3,094,267   $(284,503)   (9.2)%
Average active accounts   (3)   615    531    84    15.8%
                          
Average account balance   (4)  $233,798   $338,257   $(104,459)   (30.9)%
Average fees per account   (4)  $4,569   $5,827   $(1,259)   (21.6)%

 

Three Months Ended June 30,      2022   2021   Change ($)   Change (%) 
Average monthly ending deposit balance   (1)  $144,303,668   $185,270,404   $(40,966,733)   (22.1)%
Account fees   (2)  $1,342,895   $1,598,713   $(255,818)   (16.0)%
Average active accounts   (3)   619    533    86    16.1%
                          
Average account balance   (4)  $233,124   $347,599   $(114,475)   (32.9)%
Average fees per account   (4)  $2,169   $2,999   $(830)   (27.7)%

 

(1) Represents the average of monthly ending account balances

 

(2) Reported account activity fee revenue

 

(3) Represents the average of monthly ending active accounts

 

(4) Refer to the below section – Discussion of Results of our Operations for additional discussion of trends.

 

While the average number of accounts increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 as compared to the three months ended June 30, 2021, the average account size and account fees decreased as we experienced some churn of larger clients replaced by smaller businesses. We expect this trend to shift as we lead with our lending program typically requiring borrowers to place deposits with financial institutions with which we have relationships. This may be partially offset by expected decreases in deposits pursuant to inflation and the state of the US economy for the remainder of 2022 and beyond.

 

SHF’s lending operations are considered early stage, as it began its focused efforts on expanding its lending in 2021. We are focused on enhancing and growing our lending platform. Incremental lending key metrics will be monitored as this portion of our business grows in volume. Metrics will include average loan balance, average life to repayment, average effective interest rate and loan status, amongst others.

 

Components of our Results of Operations

 

Revenue

 

SHF generates interest and fee income through providing a variety of services to PCCU to facilitate its banking services to CRBs including, among other things, Bank Secrecy Act and other regulatory compliance and reporting, onboarding, responding to account inquiries, responding to customer service inquiries relating to CRB deposit accounts held at financial institution clients, and sourcing and originating loans. In addition, SHF provides these similar services and outsourced support to other financial institutions providing banking to the cannabis industry. These services are provided under the Safe Harbor Master Program Agreement.

 

Operating expenses

 

Operating expenses consist of compensation and benefits, professional services, rent expense, parent allocations, provisions for loan losses and other general and administrative expenses.

 

Compensation and benefits consist of employee wages and associated benefits while professional services consist of legal, general consulting and accounting fees.

 

PCCU allocations include corporate allocations such as information technology, customer support, marketing, executive compensation and other general and administrative expenses attributed to the Carved-Out Operations based on the size of the specifically identifiable CRB’s deposit balances, deposit activity and accounts relative to the totals of consolidated PCCU. These allocations were discontinued effective July 1, 2021 in conjunction with the business reorganization.

 

 
 

 

SHF reports a provision for loan losses both as it relates to loans funded internally and those carried by PCCU or other financial institutions. SHF indemnifies PCCU for losses on loans to borrowers sourced by SHF and funded by PCCU. SHF anticipates comparable arrangements with other financial institutions that fund loans to borrowers sourced by SHF.

 

Other general and administrative expenses consist of various miscellaneous items including account hosting fees, insurance expense, travel meals and entertainment and other office and operating expense.

 

Discussion of our Results of Operations —2022 Compared to 2021 (Three Months Ended June 30)

 

Revenue

 

Three Months Ended June 30,  2022   2021   Change ($)   Change (%) 
Account fees  $1,342,895   $1,598,713    (255,818)   (16.0)%
Safe Harbor Program   44,149    120,855    (76,706)   (63.5)%
Investment income   283,147    82,050    201,097    245.1%
Loan interest income   182,598    28,696    153,902    536.3%
Total Revenue  $1,852,789   $1,830,314    22,475    1.2%

 

Account fee income consists of deposit account fees, activity fees and onboarding income. Historically, SHF has received from PCCU fees based on cannabis related deposit account activity. During 2021, we reduced our fee percentage for cannabis specific accounts in order to ensure we were competitive with the market. During January 2022, we implemented a flat fee for certain CRB accounts based on historical and anticipated deposit levels. In addition, we receive a flat fee and lower rates for ancillary accounts, which are accounts are provided to businesses servicing the cannabis industry in general but that do not manufacture, possess, distribute or transport cannabis. The ratio of ancillary accounts to cannabis specific accounts increased during 2021.

 

SHF licenses similar account services and outsourced support to other financial institutions providing banking to the cannabis industry. These services are provided under the Safe Harbor Master Program Agreement. Revenue from the licensing of this program has intentionally decreased as we strategically narrow the financial institutions permitted to license the program.

 

Investment income increased as a result of recent Federal Reserve interest rate increases.

 

Loan interest income has increased as SHF increases its focus on providing lending services. At the end of 2020, SHF serviced two loans as compared to four at the end of 2021. In addition, for the period ending June 30, 2022, SHF sourced six incremental loans funded by PCCU under the Loan Servicing Agreement. SHF anticipates significantly increasing its loan services during 2022 with approximately $26.8 million of SHF sourced loans in underwriting as of September 30, 2022.

 

Operating expenses

 

As discussed in the Business Reorganization section above, PCCU allocations were discontinued effective July 1, 2021 and SHF entered into both an account servicing agreement and support service agreement. There is no impact on revenue as a result of implementing these agreements.

 

Three Months Ended June 30,  2022   2021   Change ($)   Change (%) 
Compensation and employee benefits  $794,997   $482,687    312,310    64.7%
Professional services   188,214    37,612    150,602    400.4%
Rent expense   26,303    9,065    17,238    190.2%
Parent allocations       367,407    (367,407)   (100)%
Provision for loan losses   237,874    6,825    231,049    3385.3%
General and administrative expenses   269,057    209,547    59,510    28.4%
Total Operating Expenses  $1,516,445   $1,113,143    403,302    36.2%

 

Compensation and employee benefits increased primarily as a result of Sundie Seefried, our CEO, and one of our Vice Presidents resigning from PCCU effective July 1, 2021 and beginning employment at SHF the same date. Prior to the July 1, 2021 reorganization a portion of their costs would have been included in the Parent allocations. Amounts also increased as SHF increased head count in conjunction with anticipated growth.

 

 
 

 

Professional services expense increased primarily due to audit fees incurred and increased consulting fees as we increase our lending activity and prepare for the Business Combination and to become a public company.

 

Parent allocations decreased to zero as they were discontinued in conjunction with the reorganization discussed in the Business Reorganization section above.

 

Provision for loan losses has increased as SHF focuses on increasing lending activity.

 

General and administrative expenses increased across various categories including: i) approximately $131,742 in account and investment fees hosting fees as a result of the reorganization, ii) approximately $61,010 in increased advertising and marketing as we focus on growth, iii) $10,718 in travel, meals, and entertainment, iv) $6,181 in dues and subscriptions, and v) $3,731 in loan servicing fees, offset by a decrease of $155,469 in other operating expenses due to a legal settlement during the three months ending June 30, 2021.

 

Proforma Summary Financial Statements

 

As discussed in the Business Reorganization section above, parent allocations were discontinued effective July 1, 2021 and SHF entered into both an account servicing agreement and support service agreement with PCCU. Had the effect of these agreements been applied to period prior to July 1, 2021, we estimate the following impact to the summary financial statements

 

     

2021 (Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended June 30,     Reported   Adj   Adjusted 
Revenue  (1)  $1,830,314   $   $1,830,314 
Operating expense  (2)   1,113,143    (48,986)   1,064,157 
Net income     $717,171   $48,986   $766,157 

 

(1) The reported financial statements include all CRB account related revenue. As a result, no adjustment is necessary for revenue

 

(2) Adjustments to operating expense include the removal of corporate allocations and the inclusion of fees under the new Services Agreements including (i) per account hosting fee, (ii) 25% shared investment income fee and (iii) loan servicing fee equal to 25 basis points of the average outstanding loan principal balance. In the audited financial statements, no loans were held at PCCU subject to the loan servicing fee. In addition, as corporate allocations were removed we included an adjustment for the PCCU CEO base salary prior to July 1, 2021 plus a 30% benefit charge as this individual became the SHF CEO effective July 1, 2021. The 30% benefit charge is consistent with the historical experience of SHF.

 

 
 

 

Discussion of our Results of Operations —2022 Compared to 2021 (Six Months Ended June 30)

 

Revenue

 

Six Months Ended June 30,  2022   2021   Change ($)   Change (%) 
Account fees  $2,809,764   $3,094,267    (284,503)   (9.2)%
Safe Harbor Program   87,168    275,850    (188,681)   (68.4)%
Investment income   377,133    160,061    217,072    135.6%
Loan interest income   249,834    50,417    199,417    395.5%
Total Revenue  $3,523,899   $3,580,595    (56,695)   (1.6)%

 

Account fee income consists of deposit account fees, activity fees and onboarding income. Historically, SHF has charged fees based on cannabis related deposit account activity. During 2022, we reduced our fee percentage for cannabis specific accounts in order to ensure we were competitive with the market and for many accounts implemented a flat fee structure for certain CRB accounts based on historical and anticipated deposit levels. In addition, we receive a flat fee and lower rates for ancillary accounts, which are accounts provided to businesses servicing the cannabis industry in general but do not manufacture, possess, distribute or transport cannabis. The ratio of ancillary accounts to cannabis specific accounts increased during 2022.

 

SHF provides similar account services and outsourced support to other financial institutions providing banking to the cannabis industry. These services are provided under the Safe Harbor Master Program Agreement. Revenue has decreased as we narrow the financial institutions and states we allow under this program and instead focus on servicing CRBs directly.

 

Investment income increased as a result of recent Federal Reserve interest rate increases.

 

Loan interest income has increased as SHF increases its focus on lending. For the six months ended June 30, 2021, SHF serviced 4 loans as compared to 10 loans for the six months ended June 30, 2022.

 

Operating expenses

 

As discussed in the Business Reorganization section above, PCCU allocations were discontinued effective July 1, 2022 and SHF entered into both an account servicing agreement and support service agreement. There is no impact on revenue as a result of implementing these agreements.

 

Six Months Ended June 30,  2022   2021   Change ($)   Change (%) 
Compensation and employee benefits  $1,517,522   $991,328    526,194    53.1%
Professional services   319,030    62,269    256,761    412.3%
Rent expense   51,328    23,866    27,462    115.1%
Parent allocations       648,533    (648,533)   (100)%
Provision for loan losses   306,065    11,927    294,138    2466.2%
General and administrative expenses   492,010    237,098    254,912    107.5%
Total Operating Expenses  $2,685,955   $1,975,021    710,934    36%

 

Compensation and employee benefits increased partially as a result of Sundie Seefried, our CEO, and one of our Vice President’s resigning from PCCU effective July 1, 2021 and beginning employment at SHF the same date. Prior to the July 1, 2021 reorganization a portion of their costs would have been included in the Parent allocations. Amounts also increased as SHF increased head count in conjunction with anticipated growth.

 

Professional services expense increased primarily due to audit fees incurred and increased consulting fees as we increase our lending activity and prepare to become a public company.

 

 
 

 

Parent allocations decreased to zero as they were discontinued in conjunction with the reorganization discussed in the Business Reorganization section above. Provision for loan losses increased in conjunction with increased lending activity.

 

Provision for loan losses has increased as SHF focuses on increasing lending activity.

 

General and administrative expenses increased across various categories including: i) approximately $215,550 in account and hosting fees as a result of the reorganization, ii) approximately $143,436 in increased advertising and marketing as we focus on growth, iii) $27,697 in travel, meals, and entertainment, iv) $9,836 in dues and subscriptions, v) $5,104 in loan servicing fees, and vi) $4,343 in business insurance, offset by a decrease of $155,312 in other operating expenses.

 

Proforma Summary Financial Statements

 

As discussed in the Business Reorganization section above, parent allocations were discontinued effective July 1, 2021 and SHF entered into both an account servicing agreement and support service agreement with PCCU. Had the effect of these agreements been applied to period prior to July 1, 2021, we estimate the following impact to the summary financial statements:

 

     

2021

 
Six Months Ended June 30,     Reported   Adj   Adjusted 
Revenue  (1)  $3,580,595   $   $3,580,595 
Operating expense  (2)   1,975,021    (13,592)   1,961,429 
Net income     $1,605,574   $13,592   $1,619,166 

 

(1) The reported financial statements include all CRB account related revenue. As a result, no adjustment is necessary for revenue

 

(2) Adjustments to operating expense include the removal of corporate allocations and the inclusion of fees under the new Services Agreements including (i) per account hosting fee, (ii) 25% shared investment income fee and (iii) loan servicing fee equal to 25 basis points of the average outstanding loan principal balance. In the audited financial statements, no loans were held at PCCU subject to the loan servicing fee. In addition, as corporate allocations were removed we included an adjustment for the PCCU CEO base salary prior to July 1, 2021 plus a 30% benefit charge as this individual became the SHF CEO effective July 1, 2021. The 30% benefit charge is consistent with the historical experience of SHF.

 

Financial Condition

 

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash

 

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash totaled $6,382,448 and $5,495,905 as of June 30, 2022, December 31, 2021, respectively.

 

 
 

 

Cash flows

 

As compared to the six months ended June 30, 2021, cash provided by operations decreased $523,801 to $1,235,414 for the six months ended June 30, 2022, mainly due to reduced net income from operations with an additional amount resulting from changes across operating assets and liabilities. See discussion under “— Discussion of our Results of Operations” above for more information.

 

Contract assets and liabilities

 

Deferred revenue is primarily related to contract liabilities associated with Safe Harbor agreements. As of December 31, 2021, SHF reported a contract asset and liability of $18,317 and $8,333, respectively. As of June 30, 2022, SHF reported a contract asset of $27,710 with no contract liability.

 

Liquidity

 

SHF has reported working capital of $6,838,239 at June 30, 2022 and $5,922,023 at December 31, 2021.

 

Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, as long as the post combination business includes at least $5,000,000 in net tangible assets, PCCU is entitled to retain all cash on hand less current liabilities prior to July 31, 2021, which is approximately $3.1 million. The business combination assumes $70,000,000 cash payment to PCCU funded by $60,000,000 in PIPE capital with the residual assumed to be funded with non-redemptions of the existing public stockholders of the Company. Depending on redemptions, SHF will have access to additional funding at closing through the cash released, in excess of amounts necessary fund the cash portion of the transaction, from the Company’s trust account in accordance with the terms of the business combination. At this time, SHF is focused on completing the contemplated business combination which is subject to satisfaction of the remaining conditions to closing. Regardless, we believe our cash on hand and other capital sources including cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund our operations for at least the following 12 months.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Our consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes are prepared in accordance with GAAP. Preparing consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, and expenses, as well as disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. An appreciation of our critical accounting policies is necessary to understand our financial results. In some cases, we could reasonably use different accounting policies and estimates, and changes in our estimates are reasonably likely to occur from period to period. Accordingly, actual results could differ materially from our estimates, and our financial condition or results of operations could be affected. We base our estimates on our experience and other assumptions that we believe are reasonable, and we evaluate these estimates on an ongoing basis. We refer to accounting estimates of this type as critical accounting policies and estimates, which we discuss further below.

 

Revenue recognition

 

SHF adopted Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”). 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 SHF expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASC 606 defines a five-step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, it is possible more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than required under existing accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) including identifying performance obligations in the contract, estimating the amount of variable consideration to include in the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to each separate performance obligation. SHF adopted ASC 606 for all applicable contracts using the modified retrospective method, which would have required a cumulative-effect adjustment, if any, as of the date of adoption. The adoption of ASC 606 did not have a material impact on SHF’s financial statements as of the date of adoption. As a result, a cumulative-effect adjustment was not required.

 

 
 

 

Revenue is recorded at a point in time when the performance obligation is satisfied, and no contingencies exist. Revenue consists primarily of fees earned on deposit accounts held at PCCU but serviced by SHF such as bank account charges, onboarding income, account activity fee income and other miscellaneous fees.

 

In addition, SHF recognizes revenue from the Master Program Agreement. The Master Program Agreement is a non-exclusive and non-transferable right to implement and utilize the Safe Harbor Program. The Safe Harbor Program has two performance obligations; an implementation fee recognized when the contract is effective and a service fee recognized ratable over the contract term as the compliance program is executed.

 

Lastly, SHF also records revenue for interest on loans and investment income allocated by PCCU based on specific customer balances.

 

Amounts received in advance of the service being provided is recorded as a liability under deferred revenue on the combined balance sheets. Typical Safe Harbor Program contracts are three-year contracts with amounts due monthly, quarterly or annually based on contract terms.

 

Customers consist of financial institutions providing services to CRBs. Revenues are concentrated in the United States.

 

Allowance for loan losses

 

The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses, increased by the provision for loan losses and decreased by charge-offs less recoveries. Management estimates the required allowance for loan losses balance using past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the nature and volume of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, economic conditions, and other factors. Allocations of the allowance for loan losses may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged-off. Loan losses are charged against the allowance for loan losses when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed.

 

The allowance for loan losses consists of specific and general components. The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired or loans otherwise classified as substandard or doubtful. The general component covers non-classified loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors.

 

Due to the nature of uncertainties related to any estimation process, Management’s estimate of loan losses inherent in the loan portfolio may change in the near term. However, the amount of the change that is reasonably possible cannot be estimated.

 

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, full payment under the loan terms is not expected. Impairment is generally evaluated in total for smaller-balance loans of similar nature such as a commercial loan and commercial lines of credit, but may be evaluated on an individual loan basis if deemed necessary. If a loan is impaired, a portion of the allowance is allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral if repayment is expected solely from the collateral.

 

The loans SHF intends to originate will be secured by various types of assets of the borrowers, including real property and certain personal property, including value associated with other assets to the extent permitted by applicable laws and the regulations governing the borrowers. The documents governing the loans also include a variety of provisions intended to provide remedies against the value associated with licenses. Collection procedures are designed to ensure that neither SHF nor its financial institution clients who provide funding for a loan, nor a third-party agent engaged to assist with the liquidation or foreclosure process, will take possession of cannabis inventory, cannabis paraphernalia, or other cannabis-related assets, nor will they take title to real estate used in cannabis-related businesses. Upon default of a loan, a third-party agent will be engaged to work with the borrower to have the borrower sell collateral securing the loan to a third party or to institute a foreclosure proceeding to have such collateral sold to generate funds towards the payoff of the loan. Applicable regulations under state law that govern CRBs generally do not permit the taking of title to real estate involved in commercial sales of cannabis, whether through foreclosure or otherwise, without prior regulatory approval. The sale of a license or other realization of the value of licenses also requires the approval of state and local regulatory authorities. A defaulted loan may also be sold if such a sale would yield higher proceeds or that a sale could be accomplished more quickly than a foreclosure proceeding while yielding proceeds comparable to what would be expected from a foreclosure sale. Such sale of the loan would be conducted through a third-party administrative agent. However, SHF can provide no assurances that a sale of such loans would be possible or that the sales price of such loans would be sufficient to recover the outstanding principal balance, accrued interest, and fees.

 

 
 

 

Indemnity liability

 

The indemnification component of the Loan Servicing Agreement is accounted for in accordance with ASC 450-20 Loss Contingencies. In determining the applicability of ASC 450-20, we considered that the agreement outlines a broad indemnification of all claims related to the cannabis-related business. The most immediate and potentially significant of these are potential default-related loan losses. In the lending industry, it is inherently anticipated future loan losses will result from currently issued debt. SHF’s indemnity obligation is subordinate to PCCU’s and other financial institution clients’ other means of collecting on the loans including foreclosure of the collateral, recourse against personal and/or corporate guarantors and other default remedies available in the loan agreements. Since borrowers are not party to the agreement between SHF and PCCU, any indemnity payments do not relieve borrowers of their obligation to PCCU nor would such payments preclude PCCU’s right to future recoveries from the debtor. Therefore, as defined in ASC 450-20, the indemnification clause represents a general loss contingency in that it is an existing condition, situation or set of circumstances involving uncertainty as to possible loss to the Company that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. SHF’s indemnity liability reflects SHF management’s estimate of probable loan losses inherent under the agreement at the balance sheet date. Management uses a disciplined process and methodology to establish the liability, and the estimates are sensitive to risk ratings assigned to individual loans covered by the agreement as well as economic assumptions driving the estimation model. Individual loan risk ratings are evaluated quarterly by SHF management based on each situation.

 

In addition to default-related loan losses, SHF continuously monitors all other circumstances pursuant to the agreement and identifies events that may necessitate a loss contingency under the Loan Servicing Agreement. A loss contingency is reported when it is both probable that a future event will confirm that a loss had been incurred on or before the related balance sheet date and the loss is reasonably estimable.

 

Emerging Growth Company Status

 

SHF is an emerging growth company (“EGC”), as defined in the JOBS Act. Under the JOBS Act, EGCs can delay adopting new or revised accounting standards issued until such time as those standards apply to private companies. In electing this relief, the JOBS Act does not preclude an EGC from adopting a new or revised accounting standard earlier than the time that such standard applies to private companies. SHF has elected to use this relief and will do so until the earlier of the date that it (a) is no longer an emerging growth company or (b) affirmatively and irrevocably opts out of the extended transition period provided in the JOBS Act. As a result of the elected JOBS Act relief, these combined and consolidated financial statements may not be comparable to companies that do not elect JOBS Act relief or choose to early adopt different accounting pronouncements than SHF.

 

 
 

 

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

In connection with the audit of our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020, two material weaknesses were identified in our internal controls over financial reporting. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal controls over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of SHF’s annual or interim consolidated financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

 

One material weakness was identified related to a failure to complete an analysis of the accounting impact of ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers particularly as it related to revenue recognition associated with our Safe Harbor Program revenue, and one material weakness was identified associated with our application of carve out accounting guidance and our failure to exclude certain specifically identifiable expenses from corporate allocations. We have implemented a plan to remediate these material weaknesses, through measures that include the following:

 

  we are in process of hiring a Chief Financial Officer with public accounting and previous experience as a public company executive.

 

  we are utilizing third-party consultants and specialists, to supplement our internal resources.

 

  we have enhanced our reconciliation and review controls including review by our parent CFO.

 

With the implementation of this plan, the material weaknesses have been remediated for the year ended December 31, 2021. SHF’s principal financial and accounting officer has concluded that during the period covered by this report, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level and, accordingly, provided reasonable assurance that the information required to be disclosed by us in reports filed under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

 

We have begun our implementation of Sarbanes-Oxley and we plan to continue to assess our internal controls and procedures and to take further action as necessary or appropriate to address any other matters we identify. See also the section titled “Risk Factors — Risks Related to New Safe Harbor’s Business Following the Business Combination.”

 

Related Party Relationships

 

Corporate allocations

 

Corporate allocations include overhead expenses such as information technology, customer support, marketing, executive compensation and other general and administrative expenses that are attributed to the Branches proportionately based on the relative size of the specific identifiable customer deposits to the consolidated PCCU.

 

Account Servicing Agreement

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF entered into an Account Servicing Agreement with PCCU. SHF provides services as per the agreement to CRB accounts at PCCU. In addition to providing the services, SHF assumes the costs associated with the CRB accounts. These costs include employees to manage account onboarding, monitoring and compliance, rent and office expense, insurance and other operating expenses necessary to service these accounts. Under the agreement, PCCU agrees to pay SHF all revenue generated from CRB accounts. Amounts due to SHF are due monthly in arrears and upon receipt of invoice. The agreement is for an initial term of 3 years from the effective date. It shall renew thereafter for 1-year terms until either SHF or PCCU provide sixty days prior written notice. Pursuant to this agreement, SHF reported revenue of $1,808,640 and $3,436,731 for the three month and six month periods ended June 30, 2022 and $0 for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2022.

 

 
 

 

As described elsewhere in this proxy statement, on February 11, 2022, SHF and PCCU entered into the Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement, pursuant to which SHF provides services including, among other things, Bank Secrecy Act compliance and reporting, onboarding, responding to account inquiries, and responding to customer service inquiries relating to accounts at PCCU held for cannabis-related businesses (“CRBs”). Pursuant to the Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement, SHF’s fees for such services will equal all cannabis-related income, including all lending-related income (such as loan origination fees, interest income on CRB-related loans, participation fees and servicing fees), investment income, interest income, account activity fees, processing fees, flat fees, and other revenue generated from cannabis and multi-state hemp accounts that are hosted on PCCU’s core system. The Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement is for an initial term of three years and will renew for additional one-year terms unless a party provides 120 days’ notice of non-renewal, provided that PCCU may not provide notice of non-renewal until 30 months following the signing date. The Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement initially provided that the agreement would terminate within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a “credit union service organization” or within 60 days of the assumption by a third party of all CRB-related accounts; however, on May 23, 2022, SHF and PCCU entered into the Second Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement, which agreement amended and restated the Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement to remove the provision providing for the termination of the agreement within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a “credit union service organization,” as SHF will cease to qualify as a CUSO following the closing of the Business Combination.

 

Support Services Agreement

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF entered into a Support Services Agreement with PCCU. In connection with PCCU hosting the depository accounts and the related loans and providing certain infrastructure support, PCCU receives (and SHF pays) a monthly fee per depository account. In addition, 25% of any investment income associated with CRB deposits is paid to PCCU. The respective duties and obligations as per the agreement commenced on the effective date and continue unless terminated by either SHF or PCCU upon giving sixty days prior written notice. Pursuant to these agreements and as amended and restated on February 11, 2022, the Company reported expenses of $131,742 and $215,550 for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2022 and $0 for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2021.

 

As described elsewhere in this proxy statement, on February 11, 2022, SHF and PCCU entered into the Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement, pursuant to which PCCU will continue to provide to SHF certain operational and administrative services relating to, among other things, human resources, employee benefits, IT and systems, accounting and marketing for a monthly fee equal to $30.96 per account in 2022 and $25.32 per account in 2023 and 2024. In addition, as it pertains to CRB deposits held at PCCU, investment and interest income earned on these deposits (excluding interest income on loans funded by PCCU) will be shared 25% to PCCU and 75% to SHF. SHF will also reimburse PCCU for any of its out-of-pocket expenses relating to the services provided to SHF. The Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement also sets forth certain agreements of PCCU to limit bonus distributions to its members to $30,000,000 during any 12-month period following the effective date of the agreement and to allow its ratio of CRB-related deposits to total assets to equal at least 65% unless otherwise dictated by regulatory, regulator or policy requirements. The Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement has the same term and termination provisions as the Amended and Restated Account Servicing Agreement, including a provision providing for the termination of the agreement within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a “credit union service organization.” On May 23, 2022, SHF and PCCU entered into the Second Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement, which agreement amended and restated the Amended and Restated Support Services Agreement to remove the provision providing for the termination of the agreement within 60 days of SHF no longer qualifying as a “credit union service organization,” as SHF will cease to qualify as a CUSO following the closing of the Business Combination.

 

Loan Servicing Agreement

 

Effective February 11, 2022, SHF entered into a Loan Servicing Agreement with PCCU. The agreement sets forth the application, underwriting and approval process for loans from PCCU to CRB customers and the loan servicing and monitoring responsibilities provided by both PCCU and SHF. PCCU will receive a monthly servicing fee at the annual rate of 0.25% of the then-outstanding principal balance of each loan funded by PCCU. For the loans that are subject to this agreement, SHF originates the loans and performs all compliance analysis, credit analysis of the potential borrower, due diligence and underwriting and all administration, including hiring and incurring the costs of all related personnel or third-party vendors necessary to perform these services. Under the Loan Servicing Agreement, SHF has agreed to indemnify PCCU from all claims related to default-related loan losses as defined in the Loan Servicing Agreement. The agreement is for an initial term of three years and will renew for additional one-year terms unless a party provides 120 days’ notice of non-renewal or there is a termination for cause, provided that PCCU may not provide notice of non-renewal until 30 months following the signing date.

 

Pursuant to this agreement, the Company reported expenses of $3,731 and $5,104 for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2022 and $0 for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2021.

 

Operating leases

 

Effective July 1, 2021, SHF entered into a one-year gross lease with the Parent to lease space in its existing office at a monthly rent of $5,400. Effective July 1, 2022, the Company amended its existing lease to a month-to-month lease and therefore no asset or liability amounts are reported pursuant to ASC 842.