As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 8, 2021

 

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM S-1
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
 
TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
 

 

Delaware   3730   41-2103985
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

 

3101 S. US-1
Ft. Pierce, Florida 34982
(772) 429-2525

 

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of Registrant’s principal executive offices)
 

 

Joseph C. Visconti
Chief Executive Officer and President
Twin Vee PowerCats Co.
3101 S. US-1
Ft. Pierce, Florida 34982
(772) 429-2525

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)
 

 

Copies to:

 

Leslie Marlow, Esq.
Hank Gracin, Esq.

Patrick J. Egan, Esq. 
Gracin & Marlow LLP
The Chrysler Building
405 Lexington Avenue, 26th Floor
New York, New York 10174
(212) 907-6457

Gregory Sichenzia, Esq.
Jay Yamamoto, Esq.  
Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP
1185 Avenue of the Americas, 31st Floor
New York, New York 10036
Tel: (212) 930-9700

  

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this registration statement.

 

If any of the securities being registered on this form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, check the following box. x

 

If this form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. o

 

If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. o

 

If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. o

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer x Smaller reporting company x
    Emerging growth company x

 

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 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act. o

 

 

 

 

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

         
Title of Each Class of Securities to be Registered   Proposed
Maximum
Aggregate
Offering
Price(1)
  Amount of
Registration
Fee(2)
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share(2)(3)   $ 20,700,000     $ 2,258.37  
Representative’s Warrants(4)     —         —    
Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Representative’s Warrants(2)(5)   $ 1,125,000     $ 122.74  
Total   $ 21,825,000     $ 2,381.11  

 ________________

 

  (1) Estimated solely for the purpose of computing the amount of the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

  (2) Pursuant to Rule 416, the securities being registered hereunder include such indeterminate number of additional securities as may be issued after the date hereof as a result of stock splits, stock dividends or similar transactions.
  (3) Includes shares of common stock the underwriters have the option to purchase to cover over-allotments, if any.

  (4) No fee required pursuant to Rule 457(g).

  (5) Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(g) under the Securities Act. We have agreed to issue to the representative of the underwriters warrants to purchase the number of shares of our common stock (the “Representative’s Warrants”) in the aggregate equal to [●] of the shares of our common stock to be issued and sold in this offering (excluding shares issuable upon exercise of the over-allotment option described herein). The Representative’s Warrants are exercisable for a price per share equal to [125]% of the public offering price. As estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(g), the proposed maximum aggregate offering price of the Representative’s Warrants is $1,125,000, which is equal to [125]% of $900,000 (5% of $18,000,000).

 

The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

 

 

The information contained in this preliminary prospectus is not complete and may be changed. These securities may not be sold until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION DATED APRIL [   ], 2021

 

[          ] Shares

Common Stock

 

(TWIN VEE LOGO)

 

 

 

 

Twin Vee PowerCats Co.

 

 

This is a firm commitment initial public offering of shares of common stock of Twin Vee PowerCats Co. Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock. We anticipate that the initial public offering price of our shares will be between $            and $            .

 

We intend to apply to have our common stock listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “VEEE.”

 

We are an “emerging growth company” under the federal securities laws and have elected to comply with certain reduced public company reporting requirements.

 

Investing in our common stock is involves a high degree of risk. See “Risk Factors” beginning on page 8.

 

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

  Per Share   Total
Initial public offering price $     $  
Underwriting discounts and commissions(1) $     $  
Proceeds to us, before expenses $     $  

 

(1) Underwriting discounts and commissions do not include a non-accountable expense allowance equal to 1.0% of the initial public offering price payable to the underwriters. We refer you to “Underwriting” beginning on page [] for additional information regarding underwriters’ compensation.

 

We have granted a 45-day option to the representative of the underwriters to purchase up to [] additional shares of common stock solely to cover over-allotments, if any.

 

The underwriters expect to deliver the shares to purchasers on or about [], 2021.

 

ThinkEquity

a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc.

 

The date of this prospectus is , 2021

 

 

  

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Prospectus

 

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

i

Market, Industry and Other Data

ii
Prospectus Summary 1
The Offering 7
Summary Financial Data 8
Risk Factors 9
Use of Proceeds 23
Dividend Policy 25
Capitalization 25
Dilution 26
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 28
Business 35
Management 46
Executive Compensation 52
Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions 55
Principal Stockholders 57
Description of Capital Stock 58
Shares Eligible for Future Sale 60
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for Non-U.S. Holders of Our Common Stock 62
Underwriting 66
Legal Matters 70
Experts 70
Where You Can Find Additional Information  70
Disclosure of Commission Position on Indemnification for Securities Act Liabilities 70
Index to Financial Statements F-1

 

We and the underwriters have not authorized anyone to provide you any information other than that contained in this prospectus or in any free writing prospectus prepared by or on behalf of us or to which we have referred you, and you should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus or in any such free writing prospectus. We take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. We and the underwriters are not making an offer to sell nor a solicitation of any offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should assume that the information appearing in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date on the front cover of this prospectus. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

 

For investors outside of the United States: we have not and the underwriters have not done anything that would permit this offering or possession or distribution of this prospectus in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required, other than the United States. Persons outside of the United States who come into possession of this prospectus must inform themselves about, and observe any restrictions relating to, the offering of the shares of common stock and the distribution of this prospectus outside of the United States.

 

TRADEMARKS

 

We own directly or indirectly, through our parent company, Twin Vee Powercats, Inc., or have rights to, trademarks, service marks, and trade names that we use in connection with operation of our business. In addition, our names, logos, and website names and addresses are our service marks or trademarks. Other trademarks, service marks, and trade names appearing in this prospectus are the property of their respective owners. Some of the trademarks we own directly or indirectly, or have the right to use include “Twin Vee Boats,” “Twin Vee Boat,” “Twin Vee Catamaran,” “Twin Vee” and “Twin Vee Powercats.” Solely for convenience, the trademarks, service marks, trade names, and copyrights referred to in this prospectus are listed without the ©, ®, and ™ symbols, but we will assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, our rights, the rights of our parent company, or the rights of the applicable licensors to these trademarks, service marks, and trade names.

 

BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

The Company’s fiscal year begins on January 1 and ends on December 31 with the interim quarterly reporting periods consisting of thirteen weeks. Therefore, the quarter end will not always coincide with the date of the end of the calendar month. We refer to our fiscal years based on the calendar-year in which they end. Accordingly, references to fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019 represent the financial results of Twin Vee PowerCats Co. and its subsidiaries for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. For ease of reference, we identify our fiscal years in this prospectus by reference to the period from January 1 to December 31 of the year in which the fiscal year ends.

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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This prospectus contains “forward-looking statements.” We use words such as “could,” “may,” “might,” “will,” “expect,” “likely,” “believe,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” and other similar expressions to identify some forward-looking statements, but not all forward-looking statements include these words. All of our forward-looking statements involve estimates and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the information described under the caption “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

The forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus are based on assumptions that we have made in light of our industry experience and our perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, and other factors we believe are appropriate under the circumstances. As you read and consider this prospectus, you should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve risks, uncertainties (many of which are beyond our control), and assumptions. Although we believe that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect our actual operating and financial performance and cause our performance to differ materially from the performance anticipated in the forward-looking statements. We believe these factors include, but are not limited to, those described under “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of these assumptions prove incorrect, our actual operating and financial performance may vary in material respects from the performance projected in these forward-looking statements.

 

Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement contained in this prospectus to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which it is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances. New factors that could cause our business not to develop as we expect emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. Further, we cannot assess the impact of each currently known or new factor on our results of operations or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.

 

MARKET, INDUSTRY AND OTHER DATA

 

This prospectus includes market and industry data and forecasts that we have derived from independent consultant reports, publicly available information, various industry publications, such as those of the National Marine Manufacturers Association, or NMMA, and Statistical Surveys, Inc., or SSI, other published industry sources, and our internal data and estimates.

 

Our internal data and estimates are based upon information obtained from trade and business organizations and other contacts in the markets in which we operate and our management’s understanding of industry conditions. Although we believe that such information is reliable, we have not had this information verified by any independent sources.

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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

 

This summary highlights selected information that is presented in greater detail elsewhere in this prospectus. This summary does not contain all of the information you should consider before investing in our common stock. You should read this entire prospectus carefully, including the sections titled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our audited financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus, before making an investment decision. Unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “Twin Vee,” “the company,” “we,” “us” and “our” in this prospectus refer to Twin Vee PowerCats Co.

 

Twin Vee PowerCats Co. (“Twin Vee” “we”, ‘us” or the “Company”) is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of recreational and commercial power catamaran boats. We believe our company has been an innovator in the recreational and commercial power catamaran industry. We currently have over 12 models in production ranging in size from our 24-foot, dual engine, center console to our newly designed 40-foot offshore 400 GFX. Our twin-hull catamaran running surface, known as a symmetrical catamaran hull design, adds to the Twin Vee ride quality by reducing drag, increasing fuel efficiency and offering users a stable riding boat. Twin Vee’s home base operations in Fort Pierce Florida is a 7.5-acre facility with several buildings totaling over 75,000 square feet. We employ approximately 85 people, some of whom have been with our company for over twenty years.

 

Our boats allow consumers to use them for a wide range of recreational activities including fishing, diving and water skiing and commercial activities including transportation, eco tours, fishing and diving expeditions. We believe that the performance, quality and value of our boats position us to achieve our goal of increasing our market share and expanding the power catamaran boating market. We primarily sell our boats through a current network of 10 independent boat dealers in 14 locations across North America and the Caribbean who resell our boats to the end user Twin Vee customers. We continue recruiting efforts for high quality boat dealers and seek to establish new dealers and distributors domestically and internationally to distribute our boats as we grow our production and introduce new models.

 

Twin Vee boats are currently outfitted with outboard combustion engines. Due to the growing demand for sustainable, environmentally friendly electric and alternative fuel commercial and recreational vehicles. Twin Vee has begun designing and developing products under the name “Electra Power Sports” or “ELECTRA”. We are developing a line of electric catamaran boats ranging in size from 18-feet to 26-feet. Our ELECTRA Power Sports™ Division is designing and developing a fully electric outboard motor propulsion system, we currently have five (5) engineers working on the designs, mechanicals, electrical and the many systems required to produce a working prototype. Our ELECTRA outboard motor propulsion system is designed to be compatible with many brands and models of recreational and sport watercraft boats, including twin hull catamaran boats and mono hull style boats. We intend to market the ELECTRA electric outboard motor propulsion system to other independent boat manufacturers after we complete our design, build the prototype and complete our tests on the motor. We envision significant inroads with boat manufacturers to retrofit various hull configurations replacing traditional gas and diesel fuel powered fuel compartments with battery packs and existing boat owners could also retrofit their existing gas and diesel fuel powered boats with Electra’s outboards and battery packs.

 

Our Strengths and Competitive Advantages

 

We believe that the following are the key investment attributes of our company:

 

Recognized Brand. We believe the Twin Vee brand is well-known among boating enthusiasts for performance, quality, and value, and that the market recognizes Twin Vee as a brand in the twin hull sport boat category due to the value proposition that our boats deliver.

 

Diverse Product OfferingWe are able to attract consumers across multiple categories within the recreational powerboat industry. We currently have twelve (12) different catamaran models in production that range from 24-feet to 40-feet long. In addition, we are currently designing a model line of electric powered catamarans ranging from 18-feet to 26-feet long.

 

Focus on Innovative Product Offerings. We are currently designing numerous new boat models to meet market demand and grow our business. Our newly designed boats range from a fully electric model line that include an 18-foot and 22-foot Baycat that will be powered by a single outboard electric motor, a 26-foot twin motor outboard electric Oceancat and a 24-foot twin inboard/ outboard electric Oceancat. We are also developing two large off-shore power catamarans with traditional gas-powered engines, the 340 GFX and the largest Twin Vee to date, the 400 GFX. The 400 GFX is being designed to have a range of over 800 miles and will have the option of being powered by dual or quad engines. In addition, we are also designing and engineering an all-electric outboard propulsion system under the name “ELECTRA” for other makes and models of boats.

 

Price Point. Twin Vee has also made investments in infrastructure, and engineering. These investments have resulted in lower material waste, reduced labor hours per boat, reduced re-work, and increased production efficiencies. Therefore, we are able to offer favorable pricing while increasing margins by controlling costs through disciplined engineering and manufacturing processes.

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Dealer Network. Our distribution network currently consists of 10 dealers located in North America and the Caribbean, many of which have been conducting business with us for several years. We have dealerships in Crystal River, Eastpoint, Islandmorada, Palm Bay, Palm Harbor, Pompano Beach and Stuart, Florida. We also have dealerships in Gulf Shores, Alabama, Norwalk, Connecticut, Grasonville, Maryland, Tuckerton New Jersey, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina and Freeport, Texas. We have worked diligently with our dealers to cultivate a strong distribution network in the recreational powerboat industry. We believe that our distribution network allows us to distribute our products more broadly and effectively than our smaller competitors. We continually review our geographic coverage to identify opportunities for expansion and improvement, and will, where necessary, add dealer locations to address previously underserved markets or replace underperforming dealers.

 

Market Potential. Our core market corresponds most directly to the outboard, twin hull, catamaran and open fisherman category, which we refer to as the sport powerboat category. We believe our addressable market also includes similar and adjacent powerboat categories identified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), including center console boats, outboard boats, and all open sport fishing boats. For 2020, US sales of boats, marine products, and services are estimated to total $47 billion, up nine percent from 2019. Retail unit sales of new powerboats specifically increased last year by an estimated 12 percent compared to 2019. As a result, we believe the total annual addressable market for our products in the U.S. alone is greater than $4.4 billion.

 

Experienced Management Team. We have established a senior level team of managers and engineers with many members having in excess of 20 or more years in their respective field. Our team has shown the ability to design and develop new products, enhance operations, strengthen our distribution network, and recruit industry talent. Our directive as a management team over the next few years will be to introduce new innovative products with scalability, to manufacture and market those products, and drive improvements to our manufacturing, quality, and product development systems and processes.

 

Joseph C. Visconti. Mr. Visconti has been our Chief Executive Officer, President and a director since July 2015. With over 25 years of executive level operational and financial experience, Mr. Visconti has experience building teams of professionals with a focus on product development and bringing those products to market.

 

Preston Yarborough. Mr. Yarborough brings over 23 years of marine experience to our team. In addition to his positions of Vice President and Director of Product Development, he holds a seat on the Board of Directors of Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc. For the last several years, Mr. Yarborough has led the design, development and production of all of our models and boats that we have built and sold.

 

Donna M. Barnett. Ms. Barnett has over 20 years of experience with financial control functions including all aspects of accounting in the public, private and government sectors. Ms. Barnett holds an MBA in Finance.

 

Jean Marc Zanni. Mr. Zanni is an experienced and knowledgeable senior electrical engineer, with a focus on fluid dynamics and marine engineering. Mr. Zanni specializes in integrating solutions for marine and industrial automation projects. He brings more than 20 years of industrial high-voltage electrical system practical experience to diligence, develop, and deliver innovative solutions to us. He has focused his efforts to bring energy management solutions to the harsh saltwater environment of marine applications.

 

Daniel Norton. Mr. Norton leads our engineering team. His engineering experience includes commercial marine robotic locking mechanisms for docking systems, development and machine design of industrial robotic equipment. Mr. Norton has spent over 20 years working in the technical design engineering arena for several companies including Caterpillar Inc., Gerber Technology, and ATI Industrial Automation, in various project management and engineering development positions. Mr. Norton holds in excess of 20 patents related to innovative electromechanical solutions for automation, boat docking, and work piece clamping, including the inventor of the patent application that we have filed with the United States Patent Office related to the electric propulsion system that we are developing.

 

Ryan Chicos. Mr. Chicos for over 15 years has been hands on involved with product development, prototyping, design, mechanical engineering and manufacturing processes. Mr. Chicos has worked to developed materials comprised of mechanical and chemical compositions. He has also developed two products for the recreational industry utilizing fluid dynamics and environmental sustainability.

 

Timothy Whybrew. Mr. Whybrew leads our production team. He has spent over 25 years working as a senior operations executive in various capacities. Mr. Whybrew brings approximately 30 years of team building and management experience to help drive the operational efficiencies required to maintain manufacturing schedules. One of his key focus points is driving the level of quality customers desire from our product line.

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Our Strategy

 

We intend to capitalize on the thriving broader marine industry through the following strategies:

 

Develop New and Innovative Products in Our Core Market. As an innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of catamaran powerboats, we strive to design new and inventive products that appeal to a broad customer base. For example, we plan to launch our 40-foot 400 Powercat GFX this year, our largest offshore catamaran with an 800-pound fuel capacity. We also have a 34-foot 340 Powercat GFX in the works that utilizes our latest four-piece construction build process and as discussed further below are developing a new line of electric catamaran boats ranging in size from 18-feet to 26-feet that will provide an alternative to traditionally-powered watercraft. After the completion of this offering, we intend on launching a number of new products and features with best-in-class quality, with the goal of increasing sales and margin expansion. Furthermore, our unique new product development process enables us to renew our product portfolio with innovative offerings at a rate that we believe will be difficult for our smaller competitors to match without significant additional capital investments. We intend to release new products and features multiple times during the year, which we believe enhances our reputation as a cutting-edge boat manufacturer and will drive consumer interest in our products.

 

Penetrate an All-New Segment of the Catamaran PowerBoat Category. Our near-term product development strategy is to expand our product line to reach underserved segments of the catamaran powerboat category that are distinct from our traditional customer base. For example, the “Twin 240E™” is being designed to be a fully electric version of our popular catamaran, the 24-foot center console PowerCat. The Twin Vee 240E, with a lower noise level than standard powerboats, is being designed to cater to the growing demand for sustainable, environmentally friendly electric and alternative fuel commercial and recreational vehicles. The design of the Twin Vee 240E, along with our existing supplier relationships, material agreements, and manufacturing processes, should allow us to offer this product line at an attractive price point for the consumer while sustaining our gross margins and the product attributes critical to the Twin Vee brand.

 

Capture an Additional Share from Adjacent Boating Categories. Another focus to grow our market share is to enhance our ability to introduce new products with increased versatility, functionality, and performance to a more expansive customer base that values boats for both water sports and general recreational boating purposes. We intend on launching several marketing campaigns that will focus on new product launches and help to educate the market on our value proposition to customers.

 

Effectively Manage Dealer Inventory and Further Strengthen Our Dealer Network. We view our dealers as our partners and product champions. Therefore, we will continue to devote significant time and resources to finding high quality dealers and developing and improving their performance over time. We believe the quality and trust in our dealer relationships are more beneficial to our long-term success than the quantity of dealers.

 

Increase Our Sales in International Markets. We believe we have a brand that will have natural growth in international markets. Catamaran powerboats have already been accepted as the norm in many international markets. Based on our brand and product offering, as well as out potential distribution strengths, we believe we are well positioned to leverage our reputation and capture additional international sales. We believe that we will increase our international sales by promoting our products in developed markets where we have a dealer base and in international markets where rising consumer incomes are expected to increase demand for recreational products, such as Australia, Europe, Israel, Dubai, and Brazil. We are also developing new product offerings that will specifically target certain product demand from our international consumers and that we believe will drive further sales growth in international markets.

 

Twin Vee’s Electra Power Sports Electric Division. Our initiative into sustainable marine technologies and products includes the design and development of a new line of Twin Vee boats, to be named Twin Vee Electric, or “TVE”, that are being specifically designed to be lighter and engineered for use with electric propulsion systems. The TVE model line is being designed to include newly designed 18-foot and 22-foot Baycats that will be powered with a single electric outboard motor, a newly designed 26-foot Baycat that will be powered with twin electric outboard motors and our 24-foot center console Oceancat that will be powered with dual inboard/outboard electric motors. In addition, under this new Electra Power Sports Electric Division, we intend to introduce fully electric outboard propulsion solution for the marine industry that would replace gas and diesel fuel powered internal combustion engines that run on gaseous fuel and pollute our lakes, waterways and oceans. We envision significant inroads with boat manufacturers to retrofit various hull configurations, replacing traditional gas and diesel fuel powered fuel compartments with battery packs and existing boat owners who could also retrofit their existing gas and diesel fuel powered boats with Electra’s outboard motors and battery packs. We believe that immediate benefits can be realized for the personal watercraft industry, related to reducing noise, greenhouse gasses, and other pollutants from gas and diesel fuel powered engines.

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Planned Waterfront Design and Testing Center. We are seeking to locate a waterfront location to build a technical center for the Electra Power Sports Electric Division, to be known as the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center, in or near Fort Pierce, Florida. We believe direct water access will allow us to more efficiently develop, test, and refine our electric and carbon-neutral propulsion products as we move from prototyping, to testing to manufacturing. We are working with real estate agents and local contacts to locate a property that has direct water access to the Intracoastal waterways and the Fort Pierce inlet. The access to the waterways would allow for immense time savings when testing new boats, motors and propulsion systems. Currently, our headquarters are located inland and necessitates coordination and logistics to arrange a single test run on the water. If we obtain access to the Indian River and beyond, Electra should have the capability to test its products on various vessels whenever required. It is anticipated that the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center will be our central location where boat manufacturers, dealers, and customers can visit to see the products we have in development and experience how they operate first-hand. Additionally, because of the convenience of having direct access to the water and deep water slips, our partners could even bring their boats to the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center for testing.

 

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Operations

 

The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak has offered challenges for all commercial enterprises. According to a Small Business Pulse Survey, 89.9% of businesses reported a moderate to large negative effect from COVID-19 on their business in April 2020, only reducing to approximately 75% in November 2020. Imposed restrictions, such as social distancing, regular temperature checks, enhanced cleaning measures, and the use of personal protective equipment placed on workplaces to increase the safety of employees was something many companies have never had to face before. Some companies and even entire industries have had to shut down due to COVID-19. Moreover, the potential collapse of demand from consumers is an ever-present concern right now with high unemployment rates and the unpredictable nature of living during a global pandemic.

 

We have adapted to these unprecedented times and believe we have successfully navigated the issues presented to our business by the global pandemic. Although sales decreased at the beginning of the summer and we had reduced staffing, we have operated with a full-time staff since the middle of the summer. The demand for our Classic and GFX models have been robust, our backlog is over 100 boats. Orders currently being placed for our boats are being scheduled for delivery through 2021 and into Q3 of 2022. With the influx of orders, we continue to hire seasoned and experienced production team members with years of production and scheduling experience, the team is aiding our efforts to streamline our manufacturing process.

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Summary of Risks Associated with Our Business

 

Our business is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that you should consider before investing in our company. These risks are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in this prospectus. These risks include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

  General economic conditions, particularly in the U.S., affect our industry, demand for our products and our business, and results of operations.

 

  The COVID-19 global pandemic and other natural phenomena.

 

  Our ability to meet our manufacturing workforce needs is crucial to our results of operations and future sales and profitability.

 

  There is limited public information on our operating history.

 

  Interest rates and energy prices affect product sales

 

  Our annual and quarterly financial results are subject to significant fluctuations depending on various factors, many of which are beyond our control.

 

  We depend on our network of independent dealers, face increasing competition for dealers and have little control over their activities.

 

  Our success depends, in part, upon the financial health of our dealers and their continued access to financing.

 

 

 

 

Unfavorable weather conditions may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, especially during the peak boating season.

 

A natural disaster, the effects of climate change, or disruptions at our manufacturing facility could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

  If we fail to manage our manufacturing levels while still addressing the seasonal retail pattern for our products, our business and margins may suffer.

 

  We have a large, fixed cost base that will affect our profitability if our sales decrease.

 

 

 

We may be required to repurchase inventory of certain dealers.

 

Termination or interruption of informal supply arrangements could have a material adverse effect on our busines or results of operations.

 

  We rely on one manufacturer to supply our engines and do not have any long terms commitments from such manufacturer.

 

  Product liability, warranty, personal injury, property damage and recall claims may materially affect our financial condition and damage our reputation.

 

  Significant product repair and/or replacement due to product warranty claims or product recalls could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations.

 

  Demand in the powerboat industry is highly volatile.

 

  General economic conditions, particularly in the U.S., affect our industry, demand for our products and our business, and results of operations

 

  Our industry is characterized by intense competition, which affects our sales and profits.

 

  We have identified weaknesses in our internal controls, and we cannot provide assurances that these weaknesses will be effectively remediated or that additional material weaknesses will not occur in the future.

5

 

Corporate Information

 

Our principal executive office is located at 3101 S. US-1, Ft. Pierce, Florida 34982 and our telephone number is (772) 429-2525. We maintain our corporate website at www.twinvee.com. The reference to our website is an inactive textual reference only, the information that can be accessed through our website is not part of this prospectus, and investors should not rely on any such information in deciding whether to purchase our common stock.

 

We were incorporated in the State of Florida as Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc. on December 1, 2009 and reincorporated in Delaware on April [   ], 2021. Our parent company was incorporated as ValueRich, Inc. (“ValueRich”) under the laws of the state of Florida on July 11, 2003 and reincorporated in Delaware on March 3, 2006. On February 17, 2015 ValueRich consummated the acquisition of Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc. On April 26, 2016, ValueRich changed its name and began operating under the name Twin Vee Powercats, Inc.

 

Implications of Being an Emerging Growth Company and a Smaller Reporting Company

 

We qualify as an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012, as amended, or the JOBS Act. As an “emerging growth company,” we may take advantage of specified reduced disclosure and other requirements that are otherwise applicable generally to public companies. These provisions include, but are not limited to:

 

requiring only two years of audited financial statements in addition to any required unaudited interim financial statements with correspondingly reduced “Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations” in our Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, filings;

 

reduced disclosure about our executive compensation arrangements;

 

no non-binding advisory votes on executive compensation or golden parachute arrangements; and

 

exemption from compliance with the auditor attestation requirement in the assessment of our internal control over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002, or SOX.

 

We may take advantage of these exemptions for up to five years or such earlier time that we are no longer an “emerging growth company.” We will continue to remain an “emerging growth company” until the earliest of the following: (i) the last day of the fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the date of the completion of this offering; (ii) the last day of the fiscal year in which our total annual gross revenue is equal to or more than $1.07 billion; (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in nonconvertible debt during the previous three years; or (iv) the date on which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC.

 

We are also a “smaller reporting company” as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, and have elected to take advantage of certain of the scaled disclosures available to smaller reporting companies. To the extent that we continue to qualify as a “smaller reporting company” as such term is defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act, after we cease to qualify as an emerging growth company, certain of the exemptions available to us as an “emerging growth company” may continue to be available to us as a “smaller reporting company,” including exemption from compliance with the auditor attestation requirements pursuant to SOX and reduced disclosure about our executive compensation arrangements. We will continue to be a “smaller reporting company” until we have $250 million or more in public float (based on our common stock) measured as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter or, in the event we have no public float (based on our common stock) or a public float (based on our common stock) that is less than $700 million, annual revenues of $100 million or more during the most recently completed fiscal year.

 

We may choose to take advantage of some, but not all, of these exemptions. We have taken advantage of reduced reporting requirements in this prospectus. Accordingly, the information contained herein may be different from the information you receive from other public companies in which you hold stock. In addition, the JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company may take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards, delaying the adoption of these accounting standards until they would apply to private companies. We have elected to avail ourselves of the extended transition period for complying with new or revised financial accounting standards. As a result of the accounting standards election, we will not be subject to the same implementation timing for new or revised accounting standards as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies which may make comparison of our financials to those of other public companies more difficult.

6

 

THE OFFERING

 

Common stock offered by us    
    [   ] shares (or [   ] shares if the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase additional shares to cover over-allotments, if any)
     
Common stock to be outstanding after this offering    
    [   ] shares (or [   ] shares if the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase additional shares to cover over-allotments, if any)(1)
     
Underwriters’ option to purchase
additional shares of common stock from us
   
    [   ] shares (which may be purchased from us for 45 days from the date of this prospectus to cover over-allotments, if any)
     
Use of proceeds    
    We estimate that the net proceeds from our issuance and sale of [   ] shares of our common stock in this offering will be approximately $[   ] million, assuming an initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the estimated initial public offering price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full to cover over-allotments, if any, we estimate that our net proceeds will be approximately $[   ] million.
     
    We currently anticipate using the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing resources, as follows: (1) production and marketing of our larger fully equipped boats; (2) design, development, testing, manufacturing and marketing of our new line of electric boats; (3) design, development, testing, manufacturing and marketing of our fully electric propulsion system; (4) acquisition and development of waterfront property to be used as a testing center for our boats; (and (5) working capital.  See the section titled “Use of Proceeds” for additional information.
     
Risk Factors    
    See “Risk Factors” beginning on page [14] and the other information included in this prospectus for a discussion of factors you should carefully consider before investing in our securities.
     
Proposed Nasdaq Capital Market trading symbol    
     
    We intend to apply to have our common stock listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “VEEE.”

 

You should carefully read the “Risk Factors” section of this prospectus for a discussion of factors that you should consider before deciding to invest in our common stock.

 

(1) The number of shares of our common stock to be outstanding after this offering is based on the [   ] shares of our common stock outstanding as of April        , 2021, and excludes the following:

 

  § [   ] shares of common stock reserved for future issuance as of [   ], 2021, under our 2021 Stock Incentive Plan, or 2021 Plan.

  

Unless otherwise indicated, this prospectus reflects and assumes the following:

 

· no exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase up to [   ] additional shares of our common stock from us to cover over-allotments, if any;
· no exercise of the representative’s warrants to be issued upon consummation of this offering at an exercise price equal to [125]% of the initial offering price of the common stock; and
· an initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the estimate of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus.

 

7

 

SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA

 

The following tables summarize our financial data for the periods and as of the dates indicated. We have derived the statements of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 from our audited financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. You should read the following summary financial data together with our financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus and the information in the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” 

 

    Year Ended December 31,  
    2020     2019  
             
Statements of Operations Data:                
Net Sales   $ 11,063,619     $ 10,432,517  
Cost of Products Sold     6,289,316       6,354,968  
Gross Profit     4,774,303       4,077,549  
Cost and expenses:                
Salaries and wages     2,857,773       3,241,981  
Selling and administrative     872,699       786,548  
Professional fees     167,299       95,191  
Depreciation     155,728       115,056  
Total Operating Costs     4,053,469       4,238,776  
Income / (Loss) from operations     720,834       (161,227 )
Other income (expense):                
Gain on sale of assets     19,327       -  
Forgiveness of PPO loan     609,500       -  
Interest expense     (178,584 )     (165,468 )
Total other income (expense), net     450,243       (165,468 )
Net income / (loss) before income tax expense     1,171,077       (326,695 )
Net income / (loss):   $ 1,171,077     $ (326,695 )
Basic and diluted income / (loss) per common share (1)     11,711     $ (3,267 )
Weighted average common shares outstanding basic and diluted     100       100  

 

(1) See Note [   ] to our audited financial statements appearing at the end of this prospectus for details on the calculation of basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 and Note [   ] to our unaudited condensed financial statements for details on the calculation of basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders for the fiscal years ended [   ], 2020 and 2019.

 

    As of December 31, 2020  
       
    Actual     As
Adjusted(1)
 
Balance Sheet Data:                
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 891,816          
Total assets   $ 4,504,566          
Total liabilities     2,955,726          
Accumulated deficit     (1,006,547 )        
Total stockholders’ equity     1,548,840          
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 4,504,566          

 

(1)       The as adjusted balance sheet data in the table above reflects the sale and issuance by us of shares of our common stock in this offering, based upon the assumed initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions, estimated offering expenses payable.

8

 

RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the risks described below, as well as the other information in this prospectus, including our financial statements and the related notes and the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in this prospectus, before deciding whether to invest in our common stock. The occurrence of any of the events or developments described below could harm our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects. In such an event, the market price of our common stock could decline and you may lose all or part of your investment. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial also may impair our business operations.

 

RISKS RELATED TO OUR BUSINESS

 

There is limited public information on our operating history.

 

Our limited public operating history makes evaluating our business and prospects difficult. Although we were formed in 2003, we did not provide public reports on the results of operations until our 2020 fiscal year. We only have two years of audited financial statements. Your investment decision will not be made with the same data as would be available as if we had a longer history of public reporting.

 

Our ability to meet our manufacturing workforce needs is crucial to our results of operations and future sales and profitability.

 

We rely on the existence of an available hourly workforce to manufacture our products. We cannot assure you that we will be able to attract and retain qualified employees to meet current or future manufacturing needs at a reasonable cost, or at all. For instance, the demand for skilled employees has increased recently with the low unemployment rates in Florida where we have manufacturing facilities. Also, although none of our employees are currently covered by collective bargaining agreements, we cannot assure you that our employees will not elect to be represented by labor unions in the future. Additionally, competition for qualified employees could require us to pay higher wages to attract a sufficient number of employees. Significant increases in manufacturing workforce costs could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

We have a large fixed cost base that will affect our profitability if our sales decrease.

 

The fixed cost levels of operating a powerboat manufacturer can put pressure on profit margins when sales and production decline. Our profitability depends, in part, on our ability to spread fixed costs over a sufficiently large number of products sold and shipped, and if we make a decision to reduce our rate of production, gross or net margins could be negatively affected. Consequently, decreased demand or the need to reduce production can lower our ability to absorb fixed costs and materially impact our financial condition or results of operations.

 

Interest rates and energy prices affect product sales.

 

Our products are often financed by our dealers and retail powerboat consumers, we envision this continuing as we expand our operations and grow our network of distributors. This may not occur if interest rates meaningfully rise because higher rates increase the borrowing costs and, accordingly, the cost of doing business for dealers and the cost of powerboat purchases for consumers. Higher energy costs result in increases in operating expenses at our manufacturing facility and in the expense of shipping products to our dealers. In addition, increases in energy costs may adversely affect the pricing and availability of petroleum- based raw materials, such as resins and foams that are used in our products. Also, higher fuel prices may have an adverse effect on demand for our boats, as they increase the cost of ownership and operation and the pries at which we sell the boats. Therefore, higher interest rates and fuel costs can adversely affect consumers’ decisions relating to recreational powerboating purchases.

 

Our business may be materially affected by the COVID-19 Outbreak.

 

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) may cause disruptions to our business and operational plans. These disruptions may include disruptions resulting from (i) shortages of employees, (ii) unavailability of contractors and subcontractors, (iii) interruption of, or price fluctuations in, supplies from third parties upon which we rely, (iv) restrictions that governments impose to address the COVID-19 outbreak, and (v) restrictions that we and our contractors and subcontractors impose to ensure the safety of employees and others. Continued delays in our supply chain could adversely impact our production and, in turn, our revenues. Further, it is presently not possible to predict the extent or durations of these disruptions. These disruptions may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Such adverse effect could be rapid and unexpected. These disruptions may severely affect our ability to carry out our business plans for 2021 and 2022.

9

 

Our annual and quarterly financial results are subject to significant fluctuations depending on various factors, many of which are beyond our control.

 

Our sales and operating results can vary significantly from quarter to quarter and year to year depending on various factors, many of which are beyond our control. These factors include, but are not limited to:

 

Seasonal consumer demand for our products;
Discretionary spending habits;
Changes in pricing in, or the availability of supply in, the powerboat market;
Failure to maintain a premium brand image;
Disruption in the operation of our manufacturing facilities;
Variations in the timing and volume of our sales;
The timing of our expenditures in anticipation of future sales;
Sales promotions by us and our competitors;
Changes in competitive and economic conditions generally;
Consumer preferences and competition for consumers’ leisure time;
Impact of unfavorable weather conditions;
Changes in the cost or availability of our labor; and
Increased fuel prices.

 

Due to these and other factors, our results of operations may decline quickly and significantly in response to changes in order patterns or rapid decreases in demand for our products. We anticipate that fluctuations in operating results will continue in the future.

 

Unfavorable weather conditions may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, especially during the peak boating season.

 

Adverse weather conditions in any year in any particular geographic region may adversely affect sales in that region, especially during the peak boating season. Sales of our products are generally stronger just before and during spring and summer, which represent the peak boating months, and favorable weather during these months generally has a positive effect on consumer demand. Conversely, unseasonably cool weather, excessive rainfall, reduced rainfall levels, or drought conditions during these periods may close area boating locations or render boating dangerous or inconvenient, thereby generally reducing consumer demand for our products. Our annual results would be materially and adversely affected if our net sales were to fall below expected seasonal levels during these periods. We may also experience more pronounced seasonal fluctuation in net sales in the future as we expand our businesses. There can be no assurance that weather conditions will not have a material effect on the sales of any of our products.

 

A natural disaster, the effects of climate change, or other disruptions at our manufacturing facility could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

 

We rely on the continuous operation of our only manufacturing facility in Stuart, Florida for the production of our products. Any natural disaster or other serious disruption to our facility due to fire, flood, earthquake, or any other unforeseen circumstance would adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Changes in climate could adversely affect our operations by limiting or increasing the costs associated with equipment or fuel supplies. In addition, adverse weather conditions, such as increased frequency and/or severity of storms, or floods could impair our ability to operate by damaging our facilities and equipment or restricting product delivery to customers. The occurrence of any disruption at our manufacturing facility, even for a short period of time, may have an adverse effect on our productivity and profitability, during and after the period of the disruption. These disruptions may also cause personal injury and loss of life, severe damage to or destruction of property and equipment, and environmental damage. Although we maintain property, casualty, and business interruption insurance of the types and in the amounts that we believe are customary for the industry, we are not fully insured against all potential natural disasters or other disruptions to our manufacturing facility.

 

If we fail to manage our manufacturing levels while still addressing the seasonal retail pattern for our products, our business and margins may suffer.

 

The seasonality of retail demand for our products, together with our goal of balancing production throughout the year, requires us to manage our manufacturing and allocate our products to our dealer network to address anticipated retail demand. Our dealers must manage seasonal changes in consumer demand and inventory. If our dealers reduce their inventories in response to weakness in retail demand, we could be required to reduce our production, resulting in lower rates of absorption of fixed costs in our manufacturing and, therefore, lower margins. As a result, we must balance the economies of level production with the seasonal retail sales pattern experienced by our dealers. Failure to adjust manufacturing levels adequately may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

10

 

We depend on our network of independent dealers, face increasing competition for dealers, and have little control over their activities.

 

A significant portion of our sales are derived from our network of independent dealers. We typically manufacture our boats based upon indications of interest received from dealers who are not contractually obligated to purchase any boats. Although to date most dealers have purchased boats for which they have provided indications of interest, we could experience excess inventory and costs if a dealer should choose not to purchase a boat for which it has provided an indication of interest. For fiscal 2020, our top five dealers accounted for 33% of our total boats sold. The loss of a significant dealer could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. The number of dealers supporting our products and the quality of their marketing and servicing efforts are essential to our ability to generate sales. Competition for dealers among other boat manufacturers continues to increase based on the quality, price, value, and availability of the manufacturers’ products, the manufacturers’ attention to customer service, and the marketing support that the manufacturer provides to the dealers. We face intense competition from other boat manufacturers in attracting and retaining dealers, affecting our ability to attract or retain relationships with qualified and successful dealers. Although our management believes that the quality of our products in the performance sport boat industry should permit us to maintain our relationships with our dealers and our market share position, there can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain or improve our relationships with our dealers or our market share position. In addition, independent dealers in the boating industry have experienced significant consolidation in recent years, which could result in the loss of one or more of our dealers in the future if the surviving entity in any such consolidation purchases similar products from a competitor. A substantial deterioration in the number of dealers or quality of our network of dealers would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

 

Our success depends, in part, upon the financial health of our dealers and their continued access to financing.

 

Because we sell nearly all of our products through dealers, their financial health is critical to our success. Our business, financial condition, and results of operations may be adversely affected if the financial health of the dealers that sell our products suffers. Their financial health may suffer for a variety of reasons, including a downturn in general economic conditions, rising interest rates, higher rents, increased labor costs and taxes, compliance with regulations, and personal financial issues.

 

In addition, our dealers require adequate liquidity to finance their operations, including purchases of our products. Dealers are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could unfavorably affect their liquidity positions, including, among other things, continued access to adequate financing sources on a timely basis on reasonable terms. These sources of financing are vital to our ability to sell products through our distribution network. Access to financing generally facilitates our dealers’ ability to purchase boats from us, and their financed purchases reduce our working capital requirements. If financing were not available to our dealers, our sales and our working capital levels would be adversely affected.

 

We may be required to repurchase inventory of certain dealers.

 

Many of our dealers have floor plan financing arrangements with third-party finance companies that enable the dealers to purchase our products. In connection with these agreements, we may have an obligation to repurchase our products from a finance company under certain circumstances, and we may not have any control over the timing or amount of any repurchase obligation nor have access to capital on terms acceptable to us to satisfy any repurchase obligation. This obligation is triggered if a dealer defaults on its debt obligations to a finance company, the finance company repossesses the boat and the boat is returned to us. Our obligation to repurchase a repossessed boat for the unpaid balance of our original invoice price for the boat is subject to reduction or limitation based on the age and condition of the boat at the time of repurchase, and in certain cases by an aggregate cap on repurchase obligations associated with a particular floor plan financing program. To date, we have not been obligated to repurchase any boats. However, there is no assurance that a dealer will not default on the terms of a credit line in the future. In addition, applicable laws regulating dealer relations may also require us to repurchase our products from our dealers under certain circumstances, and we may not have any control over the timing or amount of any repurchase obligation nor have access to capital on terms acceptable to us to satisfy any repurchase obligation. If we were obligated to repurchase a significant number of units under any repurchase agreement or under applicable dealer laws, our business, operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected.

 

We rely on third-party suppliers in the manufacturing of our boats.

 

We depend on third-party suppliers to provide components and raw materials essential to the construction of our boats. While we believe that our relationships with our current suppliers are sufficient to provide the materials necessary to meet present production demand, we cannot assure you that these relationships will continue or that the quantity or quality of materials available from these suppliers will be sufficient to meet our future needs, irrespective of whether we successfully implement our growth strategy. We expect that our need for raw materials and supplies will increase. Our suppliers must be prepared to ramp up operations and, in many cases, hire additional workers and/or expand capacity in order to fulfill the orders placed by us and other customers. Operational and financial difficulties that our suppliers may face in the future could adversely affect their ability to supply us with the parts and components we need, which could significantly disrupt our operations.

11

 

Termination or interruption of informal supply arrangements could have a material adverse effect on our business or results of operations.

 

Although we have long term relationships with many of our suppliers, we do not have any formal agreements with any suppliers for the purchase of parts needed and our purchases are made on a purchase order basis. We have no binding commitment from our suppliers to supply any specified quantity of materials needed within any specified time period. In the event that our suppliers receive a large amount of orders from other customers, there is a possibility that they will not be able to support our needs. If any of our current suppliers were to be unable to provide needed products to us, there can be no assurance that alternate supply arrangements will be made on satisfactory terms. If we need to enter into supply arrangements on unsatisfactory terms, or if there are any delays to our supply arrangements, it could adversely affect our business and operating results.

 

We rely on one manufacturer to supply our engines and do not have any long terms commitments from such manufacturer.

 

We currently rely on one manufacturer, Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. for the supply of our board engines. We do not have any long-term commitments from Suzuki to supply any specified number of engines and therefore cannot guarantee that there will be adequate supply of our engines. Although we believe we could obtain engines from other manufacturers, such other manufacturers may not be able to provide us with engines at the same price as we currently pay for the engines we install in our boats, which could result in lower profit margins or us increasing the price of our boats in order to maintain profit margins which could adversely impact demand for our boats.

 

Product liability, warranty, personal injury, property damage and recall claims may materially affect our financial condition and damage our reputation.

 

We are engaged in a business that exposes us to claims for product liability and warranty claims in the event our products actually or allegedly fail to perform as expected or the use of our products results, or is alleged to result, in property damage, personal injury or death. Although we maintain product and general liability insurance of the types and in the amounts that we believe are customary for the industry, we are not fully insured against all such potential claims. Our products involve kinetic energy, produce physical motion and are to be used on the water, factors which increase the likelihood of injury or death. Our products contain Lithium-ion batteries, which have been known to catch fire or vent smoke and flame, and chemicals which are known to be, or could later be proved to be, toxic carcinogenic. Any judgment or settlement for personal injury or wrongful death claims could be more than our assets and, even if not justified, could prove expensive to contest.

 

We may experience legal claims in excess of our insurance coverage or claims that are not covered by insurance, either of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Adverse determination of material product liability and warranty claims made against us could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and harm our reputation. In addition, if any of our products or components in our products are, or are alleged to be, defective, we may be required to participate in a recall of that product or component if the defect or alleged defect relates to safety. Any such recall and other claims could be costly to us and require substantial management attention.

 

Significant product repair and/or replacement due to product warranty claims or product recalls could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations.

 

We provide a hull warranty for structural damage of up to ten years. In addition, we provide a three-year limited fiberglass small parts warranty on all on some small fiberglass parts and components such as consoles Gelcoat is covered up to one year. Additionally, fiberglass lids, plastic lids, electrical panels, bilge pumps, aerator pumps or other electrical devices (excluding stereos, depth finders, radar, chart plotters except for installation if installed by Twin Vee Powercats, Inc.), steering systems, electrical panels, and pumps are covered under a one-year basic limited systems warranty. Some materials, components or parts of the boat that are not covered by our limited product warranties are separately warranted by their manufacturers or suppliers. These other warranties include warranties covering engines purchased from suppliers and other components.

 

Our standard warranties require us or our dealers to repair or replace defective products during such warranty periods at no cost to the consumer. Although we employ quality control procedures, sometimes a product is distributed that needs repair or replacement. The repair and replacement costs we could incur in connection with a recall could adversely affect our business. In addition, product recalls could harm our reputation and cause us to lose customers, particularly if recalls cause consumers to question the safety or reliability of our products.

12

 

The nature of our business exposes us to workers’ compensation claims and other workplace liabilities.

 

Certain materials we use require our employees to handle potentially hazardous or toxic substances. While our employees who handle these and other potentially hazardous or toxic materials receive specialized training and wear protective clothing, there is still a risk that they, or others, may be exposed to these substances. Exposure to these substances could result in significant injury to our employees and damage to our property or the property of others, including natural resource damage. Our personnel are also at risk for other workplace-related injuries, including slips and falls. We may in the future be subject to fines, penalties, and other liabilities in connection with any such injury or damage. Although we currently maintain what we believe to be suitable and adequate insurance in excess of our self-insured amounts, we may be unable to maintain such insurance on acceptable terms or such insurance may not provide adequate protection against potential liabilities.

 

If we are unable to comply with environmental and other regulatory requirements, our business may be exposed to material liability and/or fines.

 

Our operations are subject to extensive and frequently changing federal, state, local, and foreign laws and regulations, including those concerning product safety, environmental protection, and occupational health and safety. Some of these laws and regulations require us to obtain permits, and limit our ability to discharge hazardous materials into the environment. If we fail to comply with these requirements, we may be subject to civil or criminal enforcement actions that could result in the assessment of fines and penalties, obligations to conduct remedial or corrective actions, or, in extreme circumstances, revocation of our permits or injunctions preventing some or all of our operations. In addition, the components of our boats must meet certain regulatory standards, including stringent air emission standards for boat engines. Failure to meet these standards could result in an inability to sell our boats in key markets, which would adversely affect our business. Moreover, compliance with these regulatory requirements could increase the cost of our products, which in turn, may reduce consumer demand.

 

While we believe that we are in material compliance with applicable federal, state, local, and foreign regulatory requirements, and hold all licenses and permits required thereunder, we cannot assure you that we will, at all times, be able to continue to comply with applicable regulatory requirements. Compliance with increasingly stringent regulatory and permit requirements may, in the future, cause us to incur substantial capital costs and increase our cost of operations, or may limit our operations, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition.

 

As with most boat construction businesses, our manufacturing processes involve the use, handling, storage, and contracting for recycling or disposal of hazardous substances and wastes. The failure to manage or dispose of such hazardous substances and wastes properly could expose us to material liability or fines, including liability for personal injury or property damage due to exposure to hazardous substances, damages to natural resources, or for the investigation and remediation of environmental conditions. Under environmental laws, we may be liable for remediation of contamination at sites where our hazardous wastes have been disposed or at our current facility, regardless of whether our facility is owned or leased or whether the environmental conditions were created by us, a prior owner or tenant, or a third-party. While we do not believe that we are presently subject to any such liabilities, we cannot assure you that environmental conditions relating to our prior, existing, or future sites or operations or those of predecessor companies will not have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition.

 

Our industry is characterized by intense competition, which affects our sales and profits.

 

The performance sport boat category and the powerboat industry as a whole are highly competitive for consumers and dealers. We also compete against consumer demand for used boats. Competition affects our ability to succeed in both the markets we currently serve and new markets that we may enter in the future. Competition is based primarily on brand name, price, product selection, and product performance. We compete with several large manufacturers that may have greater financial, marketing, and other resources than we do and who are represented by dealers in the markets in which we now operate and into which we plan to expand. We also compete with a variety of small, independent manufacturers. We cannot assure you that we will not face greater competition from existing large or small manufacturers or that we will be able to compete successfully with new competitors. Our failure to compete effectively with our current and future competitors would adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

 

We face increasing competition for dealers and have little control over their activities.

 

We face intense competition from other performance sport boat manufacturers in attracting and retaining dealers and customers, affecting our ability to attract or retain relationships with qualified and successful dealers and consumers looking to purchase boats. Although our management believes that the quality of our products in the boat industry should permit us to maintain our relationships with our dealers and our market share position, there can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain or improve our relationships with our dealers or our market share position. In addition, independent dealers in the boating industry have experienced significant consolidation in recent years, which could result in the loss of one or more of our dealers in the future if the surviving entity in any such consolidation purchases similar products from a competitor. A substantial deterioration in the number of dealers or quality of our network of dealers would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

13

 

Our sales may be adversely impacted by increased consumer preference for other leisure activities or used boats or the supply of new boats by competitors in excess of demand.

 

Our boats are not necessities and in times of economic hardship, consumers may cease purchasing non-essential items. Demand for our boats may be adversely affected by competition from other activities that occupy consumers’ leisure time and by changes in consumer life style, usage pattern or taste. Similarly, an overall decrease in consumer leisure time may reduce consumers’ willingness to purchase and enjoy our boats.

 

During the economic downturn that commenced in 2008, there was a shift in consumer demand toward purchasing more used boats, primarily because prices for used boats are typically lower than retail prices for new boats. If this were to occur again, it could have the effect of reducing demand among retail purchasers for our new boats. Also, while we have balanced production volumes for our boats to meet demand, our competitors could choose to reduce the price of their products, which could have the effect of reducing demand for our new boats. Reduced demand for new boats could lead to reduced sales by us, which could adversely affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

 

Our sales and profitability depend, in part, on the successful introduction of new products.

 

Market acceptance of our products depends on our technological innovation and our ability to implement technology in our boats. Our sales and profitability may be adversely affected by difficulties or delays in product development, such as an inability to develop viable or innovative new products. Our failure to introduce new technologies and product offerings that consumers desire could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. If we fail to introduce new features or those we introduce fail to gain market acceptance, our bottom line may suffer.

 

We are developing the Twin 240E, a fully electric version of our popular 24-foot center console PowerCat. The 240 E will be Twin Vee’s first fully electric I/O powertrain system that will combine an advanced battery pack, converter, high-efficiency motor, and proprietary union assembly between the transmission, electric motor design, and control software. If we experience delays in the development of the electric I/O powertrain system for the boat, fail to bring the Twin 240E to market as and when planned or if it fails to gain market acceptance, our bottom line may also suffer.

 

In addition, some of our direct competitors and indirect competitors may have significantly more resources to develop and patent new technologies. It is possible that our competitors will develop and patent equivalent or superior technologies and other products that compete with ours. They may assert these patents against us and we may be required to license these patents on unfavorable terms or cease using the technology covered by these patents, either of which would harm our competitive position and may materially adversely affect our business.

 

We also cannot be certain that our products or features have not infringed or will not infringe the proprietary rights of others. Any such infringement could cause third parties, including our competitors, to bring claims against us, resulting in significant costs and potential damages.

 

Our success depends upon the continued strength of our brand, the value of our brand, and sales of our products could be diminished if we, the consumers who use our products, or the sports and activities in which our products are used are associated with negative publicity.

 

We believe that our brand is a significant contributor to the success of our business and that maintaining and enhancing our brand is important to expanding our consumer and dealer base. Failure to continue to protect our brand may adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. We expect that our ability to develop, maintain and strengthen the Twin Vee brand will also depend heavily on the success of our marketing efforts. To further promote our brand, we may be required to change our marketing practices, which could result in substantially increased advertising expenses, including the need to use traditional media such as television, radio and print. Many of our current and potential competitors have greater name recognition, broader customer relationships and substantially greater marketing resources than we do. If we do not develop and maintain strong brands, our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results will be materially and adversely impacted.

 

Negative publicity, including that resulting from severe injuries or death occurring in the sports and activities in which our products are used, could negatively affect our reputation and result in restrictions, recalls, or bans on the use of our products. If the popularity of the sports and activities for which we design, manufacture, and sell products were to decrease as a result of these risks or any negative publicity, sales of our products could decrease, which could have an adverse effect on our net sales, profitability, and operating results. In addition, if we become exposed to additional claims and litigation relating to the use of our products, our reputation may be adversely affected by such claims, whether or not successful, including by generating potential negative publicity about our products, which could adversely impact our business and financial condition.

14

 

We may not be able to execute our manufacturing strategy successfully, which could cause the profitability of our products to suffer.

 

Our manufacturing strategy is designed to improve product quality and increase productivity, while reducing costs and increasing flexibility to respond to ongoing changes in the marketplace. To implement this strategy, we must be successful in our continuous improvement efforts, which depend on the involvement of management, production employees, and suppliers. Any inability to achieve these objectives could adversely impact the profitability of our products and our ability to deliver desirable products to our consumers.

 

We may need to raise additional capital that may be required to grow our business, and we may not be able to raise capital on terms acceptable to us or at all.

 

Operating our business and maintaining our growth efforts will require significant cash outlays and advance capital expenditures and commitments. Although the proceeds of this offering should be sufficient to fund our operations, if cash on hand and cash generated from operations and from this offering are not sufficient to meet our cash requirements, we will need to seek additional capital, potentially through debt or equity financings, to fund our growth. We cannot assure you that we will be able to raise needed cash on terms acceptable to us or at all. Financings may be on terms that are dilutive or potentially dilutive to our stockholders, and the prices at which new investors would be willing to purchase our securities may be lower than the price per share of our common stock in this offering. The holders of new securities may also have rights, preferences or privileges which are senior to those of existing holders of common stock. If new sources of financing are required, but are insufficient or unavailable, we will be required to modify our growth and operating plans based on available funding, if any, which would harm our ability to grow our business.

 

If we fail to manage future growth effectively, we may not be able to market or sell our products successfully.

 

Any failure to manage our growth effectively could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition. We plan to expand our operations in the near future. Our future operating results depend to a large extent on our ability to manage this expansion and growth successfully. Risks that we face in undertaking this expansion include:

 

training new personnel;

 

forecasting production and revenue;

 

expanding our marketing efforts, including the marketing of a new powertrain that we intend to develop;

 

controlling expenses and investments in anticipation of expanded operations;

 

establishing or expanding design, manufacturing, sales and service facilities;

 

implementing and enhancing administrative infrastructure, systems and processes; and

 

addressing new markets.

 

We intend to continue to hire a number of additional personnel, including design and manufacturing personnel and service technicians for our electric boats and powertrains. Competition for individuals with experience designing, manufacturing and servicing electric boats is intense, and we may not be able to attract, assimilate, train or retain additional highly qualified personnel in the future. The failure to attract, integrate, train, motivate and retain these additional employees could seriously harm our business and prospects.

 

We depend upon our executive officers and we may not be able to retain them and their knowledge of our business and technical expertise would be difficult to replace.

 

Our future success will depend in significant part upon the continued service of our executive officers. We cannot assure you that we will be able to continue to attract or retain such persons. We do not have an insurance policy on the life of our chief executive officer, and we do not have “key person” life insurance policies for any of our other officers or advisors. The loss of the technical knowledge and management and industry expertise of any of our key personnel could result in delays in product development, loss of customers and sales and diversion of management resources, which could adversely affect our operating results.

15

 

Certain of our shareholders have sufficient voting power to make corporate governance decisions that could have a significant influence on us and the other stockholders.

 

Our parent company currently owns 100% of our outstanding common stock and will own beneficially approximately ____% of our outstanding common stock immediately after the consummation of the offering. Our Chief Executive Officer is the Chief Executive Officer of our parent company and a member of its board of directors in addition to owning 56.14% of the outstanding common stock of our parent company. As a result, our Chief Executive Officer does and will have significant influence over our management and affairs and over matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions. In addition, this concentration of ownership may delay or prevent a change in our control and might affect the market price of our common stock, even when a change in control may be in the best interest of all stockholders. Furthermore, the interests of this concentration of ownership may not always coincide with our interests or the interests of other stockholders. Accordingly, our Chief Executive Officer could cause us to enter into transactions or agreements that we would not otherwise consider.

 

We may attempt to grow our business through acquisitions or strategic alliances and new partnerships, which we may not be successful in completing or integrating.

 

We may in the future enter into acquisitions, such as our current search for a waterfront property, and strategic alliances that will enable us to acquire complementary skills and capabilities, offer new products, expand our consumer base, enter new product categories or geographic markets, and obtain other competitive advantages. We cannot assure you, however, that we will identify acquisition candidates or strategic partners that are suitable to our business, obtain financing on satisfactory terms, complete acquisitions or strategic alliances, or successfully integrate acquired operations into our existing operations. Once integrated, acquired operations may not achieve anticipated levels of sales or profitability, or otherwise perform as expected. Acquisitions also involve special risks, including risks associated with unanticipated challenges, liabilities and contingencies, and diversion of management attention and resources from our existing operations. Similarly, our partnership with leading franchises from other industries to market our products or with third-party technology providers to introduce new technology to the market may not achieve anticipated levels of consumer enthusiasm and acceptance, or achieve anticipated levels of sales or profitability, or otherwise perform as expected.

 

We rely on network and information systems and other technologies for our business activities and certain events, such as computer hackings, viruses or other destructive or disruptive software or activities may disrupt our operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Network and information systems and other technologies are important to our business activities and operations. Network and information systems-related events, such as computer hackings, cyber threats, security breaches, viruses, or other destructive or disruptive software, process breakdowns or malicious or other activities could result in a disruption of our services and operations or improper disclosure of personal data or confidential information, which could damage our reputation and require us to expend resources to remedy any such breaches. Moreover, the amount and scope of insurance we maintain against losses resulting from any such events or security breaches may not be sufficient to cover our losses or otherwise adequately compensate us for any disruptions to our businesses that may result, and the occurrence of any such events or security breaches could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. The risk of these systems-related events and security breaches occurring has intensified, in part because we maintain certain information necessary to conduct our businesses in digital form stored on cloud servers. While we develop and maintain systems seeking to prevent systems-related events and security breaches from occurring, the development and maintenance of these systems is costly and requires ongoing monitoring and updating as technologies change and efforts to overcome security measures become more sophisticated. Despite these efforts, there can be no assurance that disruptions and security breaches will not occur in the future. Moreover, we may provide certain confidential, proprietary and personal information to third parties in connection with our businesses, and while we obtain assurances that these third parties will protect this information, there is a risk that this information may be compromised.

 

Likewise, data privacy breaches by employees or others with permitted access to our systems may pose a risk that sensitive data may be exposed to unauthorized persons or to the public. While we have invested in protection of data and information technology, there can be no assurance that our efforts will prevent breakdowns or breaches in our systems that could adversely affect our business. The occurrence of any of such network or information systems-related events or security breaches could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

16

 

Intellectual Property Risks

 

A significant portion of our intellectual property is not protected through patents or formal copyright registration. As a result, we do not have the full benefit of patent or copyright laws to prevent others from replicating our products, product candidates and brands.

 

We have not protected our intellectual property rights through patents or formal copyright registration, and we do not currently have any patent applications pending other than our new patent application that we filed for our propulsion system being developed. There can be no assurance that any patent will issue or if issued that the patent will protect our intellectual property. As a result, we may not be able to protect our intellectual property and trade secrets or prevent others from independently developing substantially equivalent proprietary information and techniques or from otherwise gaining access to our intellectual property or trade secrets. In such an instance, our competitors could produce products that are nearly identical to ours resulting in us selling less products or generating less revenue from our sales.

 

Confidentiality agreements with employees and others may not adequately prevent disclosure of trade secrets and other proprietary information.

 

We rely on trade secrets, know-how and technology, which are not protected by patents, to protect the intellectual property behind our electric powertrain and for the construction of our boats. We have recently begun to use confidentiality agreements with our collaborators, employees, consultants, outside collaborators and other advisors to protect our proprietary technology and processes. We intend to use such agreements in the future, but these agreements may not effectively prevent disclosure of confidential information and may not provide an adequate remedy in the event of unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. In addition, others may independently discover trade secrets and proprietary information, and in such cases we could not assert any trade secret rights against such party. Costly and time-consuming litigation could be necessary to enforce and determine the scope of our proprietary rights, and failure to obtain or maintain trade secret protection could adversely affect our competitive business position.

 

We may need to defend ourselves against patent, copyright or trademark infringement claims, which may be time-consuming and would cause us to incur substantial costs.

 

The status of the protection of our intellectual property is unsettled as we do not have any issued patents, registered trademarks or registered copyrights for most of our intellectual property and other than one patent application, we have not applied for the same. Companies, organizations or individuals, including our competitors, may hold or obtain patents, trademarks or other proprietary rights that would prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use, develop, sell or market our powerboats and electric powertrains or use third-party components, which could make it more difficult for us to operate our business. From time to time, we may receive communications from third parties that allege our products or components thereof are covered by their patents or trademarks or other intellectual property rights. Companies holding patents or other intellectual property rights may bring suits alleging infringement of such rights or otherwise assert their rights. If we are determined to have infringed upon a third party’s intellectual property rights, we may be required to do one or more of the following:

 

cease making, using, selling or offering to sell processes, goods or services that incorporate or use the third-party intellectual property;

 

pay substantial damages;

 

seek a license from the holder of the infringed intellectual property right, which license may not be available on reasonable terms or at all;

 

redesign our boats or other goods or services to avoid infringing the third-party intellectual property;

 

establish and maintain alternative branding for our products and services; or

 

find-third providers of any part or service that is the subject of the intellectual property claim.

 

In the event of a successful claim of infringement against us and our failure or inability to obtain a license to the infringed technology or other intellectual property right, our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition could be materially adversely affected. In addition, any litigation or claims, whether or not valid, could result in substantial costs, negative publicity and diversion of resources and management attention.

 

Risks Related to Our Industry

 

Demand in the powerboat industry is highly volatile.

 

Volatility of demand in the powerboat industry, especially for recreational powerboats and electric powerboats, may materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition. The markets in which we will be competing have been subject to considerable volatility in demand in recent periods. Demand for recreational powerboat and electric powerboat sales depends to a large extent on general, economic and social conditions in a given market. Historically, sales of recreational powerboats decrease during economic downturns. We have fewer financial resources than more established powerboat manufacturers to withstand adverse changes in the market and disruptions in demand.

17

 

General economic conditions, particularly in the U.S., affect our industry, demand for our products and our business, and results of operations.

 

Demand for premium boat brands has been significantly influenced by weak economic conditions, low consumer confidence, high unemployment, and increased market volatility worldwide, especially in the U.S. In times of economic uncertainty and contraction, consumers tend to have less discretionary income and tend to defer or avoid expenditures for discretionary items, such as our products. Sales of our products are highly sensitive to personal discretionary spending levels. Our business is cyclical in nature and its success is impacted by economic conditions, the overall level of consumer confidence and discretionary income levels. Any substantial deterioration in general economic conditions that diminishes consumer confidence or discretionary income may reduce our sales and materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. We cannot predict the duration or strength of an economic recovery, either in the U.S. or in the specific markets where we sell our products. Corporate restructurings, layoffs, declines in the value of investments and residential real estate, higher gas prices, higher interest rates, and increases in federal and state taxation may each materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

 

Consumers often finance purchases of our products. Although consumer credit markets have improved, consumer credit market conditions continue to influence demand, especially for boats, and may continue to do so. There continue to be fewer lenders, tighter underwriting and loan approval criteria, and greater down payment requirements than in the past. If credit conditions worsen, and adversely affect the ability of consumers to finance potential purchases at acceptable terms and interest rates, it could result in a decrease in the sales of our products.

 

Global economic conditions could materially adversely impact demand for our products and services.

 

Our operations and performance depend significantly on economic conditions. Global financial conditions continue to be subject to volatility arising from international geopolitical developments and global economic phenomenon, as well as general financial market turbulence, including a significant recent market reaction to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), resulting in a significant reduction in many major market indices. Uncertainty about global economic conditions could result in material adverse effects on our business, results of operations or financial condition. Access to public financing and credit can be negatively affected by the effect of these events on U.S. and global credit markets. The health of the global financing and credit markets may affect our ability to obtain equity or debt financing in the future and the terms at which financing or credit is available to us. These instances of volatility and market turmoil could adversely affect our operations and the trading price of our common shares resulting in.

 

customers postponing purchases of our products and services in response to tighter credit, unemployment, negative financial news and/or declines in income or asset values and other macroeconomic factors, which could have a material negative effect on demand for our products and services; and

 

third-party suppliers being unable to produce parts and components for our products in the same quantity or on the same timeline or being unable to deliver such parts and components as quickly as before or subject to price fluctuations, which could have a material adverse effect on our production or the cost of such production; and

 

Risks Relating to this Offering and Ownership of our Common Stock

 

Terms of subsequent financings may adversely impact your investment.

 

We may have to engage in common equity, debt, or preferred stock financing in the future. Your rights and the value of your investment in our securities could be reduced. Interest on debt securities could increase costs and negatively impacts operating results. Preferred stock could be issued in series from time to time with such designation, rights, preferences, and limitations as needed to raise capital. The terms of preferred stock could be more advantageous to those investors than to the holders of common shares. In addition, if we need to raise more equity capital from the sale of common shares, institutional or other investors may negotiate terms at least as, and possibly more, favorable than the terms of your investment. Common shares which we sell could be sold into any market which develops, which could adversely affect the market price.

 

If securities analysts do not publish research or reports about our company, or if they issue unfavorable commentary about us or our industry or downgrade our common stock, the price of our common stock could decline.

 

The trading market for our common stock will depend in part on the research and reports that third-party securities analysts publish about our company and our industry. We may be unable or slow to attract research coverage and if one or more analysts cease coverage of our company, we could lose visibility in the market. In addition, one or more of these analysts could downgrade our common stock or issue other negative commentary about our company or our industry. As a result of one or more of these factors, the trading price of our common stock could decline.

18

 

The obligations associated with being a public company will require significant resources and management attention, which may divert from our business operations.

 

As a result of this offering, we will become subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The Exchange Act requires that we file annual, quarterly, and current reports with respect to our business and financial condition. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we establish and maintain effective internal controls and procedures for financial reporting. As a result, we will incur significant legal, accounting, and other expenses that we did not previously incur.

 

We have identified weaknesses in our internal controls, and we cannot provide assurances that these weaknesses will be effectively remediated or that additional material weaknesses will not occur in the future.

 

As a public company, we will be subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. We expect that the requirements of these rules and regulations will continue to increase our legal, accounting and financial compliance costs, make some activities more difficult, time consuming and costly, and place significant strain on our personnel, systems and resources.

 

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures, and internal control over financial reporting.

 

We do not yet have effective disclosure controls and procedures, or internal controls over all aspects of our financial reporting. We are continuing to develop and refine our disclosure controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we will file with the SEC is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and in accordance with GAAP. Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over our financial reporting, as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. We will be required to expend time and resources to further improve our internal controls over financial reporting, including by expanding our staff. However, we cannot assure you that our internal control over financial reporting, as modified, will enable us to identify or avoid material weaknesses in the future.

 

We have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The material weaknesses identified to date include (i) lack of segregation of duties and (ii) the level of review of our internally prepared financial statements. As such, our internal controls over financial reporting were not designed or operating effectively.

 

We will be required to expend time and resources to further improve our internal controls over financial reporting, including by expanding our staff. However, we cannot assure you that our internal control over financial reporting, as modified, will enable us to identify or avoid material weaknesses in the future.

 

We have not yet retained sufficient staff or engaged sufficient outside consultants with appropriate experience in GAAP presentation, especially of complex instruments, to devise and implement effective disclosure controls and procedures, or internal controls. We will be required to expend time and resources hiring and engaging additional staff and outside consultants with the appropriate experience to remedy these weaknesses. We cannot assure you that management will be successful in locating and retaining appropriate candidates; that newly engaged staff or outside consultants will be successful in remedying material weaknesses thus far identified or identifying material weaknesses in the future; or that appropriate candidates will be located and retained prior to these deficiencies resulting in material and adverse effects on our business.

 

Our current controls and any new controls that we develop may become inadequate because of changes in conditions in our business, including increased complexity resulting from our international expansion. Further, weaknesses in our disclosure controls or our internal control over financial reporting may be discovered in the future. Any failure to develop or maintain effective controls, or any difficulties encountered in their implementation or improvement, could harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations and may result in a restatement of our financial statements for prior periods. Any failure to implement and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could also adversely affect the results of management reports and independent registered public accounting firm audits of our internal control over financial reporting that we will eventually be required to include in our periodic reports that will be filed with the SEC. Ineffective disclosure controls and procedures, and internal control over financial reporting could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial and other information, which would likely have a negative effect on the market price of our common stock.

 

Our independent registered public accounting firm is not required to audit the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting until after we are no longer an “emerging growth company” as defined in the JOBS Act. At such time, our independent registered public accounting firm may issue a report that is adverse in the event it is not satisfied with the level at which our internal control over financial reporting is documented, designed or operating. Any failure to maintain effective disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting could have a material and adverse effect on our business and operating results and cause a decline in the market price of our common stock.

19

 

Our failure to achieve and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act as a public company could have a material adverse effect on our business and share price.

 

Prior to the completion of this offering, we have not had to independently comply with Section 404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Section 404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires annual management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, starting with the second annual report that we would expect to file with the SEC. We anticipate being required to meet these standards in the course of preparing our financial statements as of and for the year ending December 31, 2022, and our management will be required to report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting for such year. Additionally, once we are no longer an emerging growth company, as defined by the JOBS Act, our independent registered public accounting firm will be required pursuant to Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act to attest to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting on an annual basis. The rules governing the standards that must be met for our management to assess our internal control over financial reporting are complex and require significant documentation, testing, and possible remediation.

 

Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. We are in the process of reviewing, documenting, and testing our internal control over financial reporting, but we are not currently in compliance with, and we cannot be certain when we will be able to implement, the requirements of Section 404(a). We may encounter problems or delays in implementing any changes necessary to make a favorable assessment of our internal control over financial reporting. In addition, we may encounter problems or delays in completing the implementation of any public accounting firm after we cease to be an emerging growth company. If we cannot favorably assess the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, or if our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to provide an unqualified attestation report on our internal controls after we cease to be an emerging growth company, investors could lose confidence in our financial information and the price of our common stock could decline.

 

Additionally, the existence of any material weakness or significant deficiency requires management to devote significant time and incur significant expense to remediate any such material weaknesses or significant deficiencies and management may not be able to remediate any such material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in a timely manner. The existence of any material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting could also result in errors in our financial statements that could require us to restate our financial statements, cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations, and cause stockholders to lose confidence in our reported financial information, all of which could materially and adversely affect our business and share price.

 

For as long as we are an emerging growth company, we will not be required to comply with certain reporting requirements, including those relating to accounting standards and disclosure about our executive compensation, that apply to other public companies.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in Section 2(a) of the Securities Act, as modified by the JOBS Act. As such, we are eligible to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not “emerging growth companies,” including, but not limited to, (i) not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, (ii) reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements, and (iii) exemptions from the requirements of holding a non-binding advisory vote on executive compensation and of stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We have elected to adopt these reduced disclosure requirements. We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive as a result of our taking advantage of these exemptions and as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be more volatile.

 

We could remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years or until the earliest of (a) the last day of the first fiscal year in which our annual gross revenues exceed $1 billion, (b) the date that we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act, which would occur if the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed fiscal quarter, and (c) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt securities during the preceding three-year period.

 

We are also a “smaller reporting company” as defined in the Exchange Act, and have elected to take advantage of certain of the scaled disclosures available to smaller reporting companies. To the extent that we continue to qualify as a “smaller reporting company” as such term is defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act, after we cease to qualify as an emerging growth company, certain of the exemptions available to us as an “emerging growth company” may continue to be available to us as a “smaller reporting company,” including exemption from compliance with the auditor attestation requirements pursuant to SOX and reduced disclosure about our executive compensation arrangements. We will continue to be a “smaller reporting company” until we have $250 million or more in public float (based on our common stock) measured as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter or, in the event we have no public float (based on our common stock) or a public float (based on our common stock) that is less than $700 million, annual revenues of $100 million or more during the most recently completed fiscal year.

20

 

Our common stock price may be volatile or may decline regardless of our operating performance and you may not be able to resell your shares at or above the initial public offering price.

 

It is possible that after this offering an active trading market will not develop or continue or, if developed, that any market will be sustained, which could make it difficult for you to sell your shares of our common stock at an attractive price or at all. The initial public offering price of our common stock will be determined by negotiations between us and the representative of the underwriters based upon a number of factors and may not be indicative of prices that will prevail in the open market following the consummation of this offering. See “Underwriting (Conflicts of Interest).” Consequently, you may not be able to sell our shares of common stock at prices equal to or greater than the price you paid in this offering.

 

Volatility in the market price of our common stock may prevent you from being able to sell your shares at or above the price you paid for them. Many factors, which are outside our control, may cause the market price of our common stock to fluctuate significantly, including those described elsewhere in this “Risk Factors” section and this prospectus, as well as the following:

 

Our operating and financial performance and prospects;
Our quarterly or annual earnings or those of other companies in our industry compared to market expectations;
Conditions that impact demand for our products;
Future announcements concerning our business or our competitors’ businesses;
The public’s reaction to our press releases, other public announcements, and filings with the SEC;
The size of our public float;
Coverage by or changes in financial estimates by securities analysts or failure to meet their expectations;
Market and industry perception of our success, or lack thereof, in pursuing our growth strategy;
Strategic actions by us or our competitors, such as acquisitions or restructurings;
Changes in laws or regulations that adversely affect our industry or us;
Changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations, or principles;
Changes in senior management or key personnel;
Issuances, exchanges or sales, or expected issuances, exchanges or sales of our capital stock;
Changes in our dividend policy;
Adverse resolution of new or pending litigation against us; and
Changes in general market, economic, and political conditions in the U.S. and global economies or financial markets, including those resulting from natural disasters, terrorist attacks, acts of war, and responses to such events.

 

As a result, volatility in the market price of our common stock may prevent investors from being able to sell their common stock at or above the initial public offering price or at all. These broad market and industry factors may materially reduce the market price of our common stock, regardless of our operating performance. In addition, price volatility may be greater if the public float and trading volume of our common stock is low. As a result, you may suffer a loss on your investment.

 

Additionally, recently, securities of certain companies have experienced significant and extreme volatility in stock price due to short sellers of shares of common stock, known as a “short squeeze.” These short squeezes have caused extreme volatility in those companies and in the market and have led to the price per share of those companies to trade at significantly inflated rates that is disconnected from the underlying value of the company. Many investors who have purchased shares in those companies at an inflated rate face the risk of losing a significant portion of their original investment as the price per share has declined steadily as interest in those stocks have abated. While we have no reason to believe our shares would be the target of a short squeeze, there can be no assurance that we won’t be in the future, and you may lose a significant portion or all of your investment if you purchase our shares at a rate that is significantly disconnected from our underlying value.

 

You will suffer immediate and substantial dilution in the net tangible book value of the common stock you purchase.

 

The price you pay for shares of our common stock sold in this offering is substantially higher than our as adjusted net tangible book value per share. Based on the initial public offering price for our common stock of $ per share (which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus), you will incur immediate dilution in net tangible book value per share of $ __. Dilution is the difference between the offering price per share and the as adjusted net tangible book value per share of our common stock immediately after the offering. As a result of this dilution, investors purchasing stock in this offering may receive significantly less than the full purchase price that they paid for the stock purchased in this offering in the event of liquidation. See “Dilution.”

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We do not intend to pay dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future.

 

We presently have no intention to pay dividends on our common stock at any time in the foreseeable future. Any decision to declare and pay dividends in the future will be made at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on, among other things, our results of operations, financial condition, cash requirements, contractual restrictions, and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant. k. Furthermore, our ability to declare and pay dividends may be limited by instruments governing future outstanding indebtedness we may incur.

 

FINRA sales practice requirements may limit your ability to buy and sell our common shares, which could depress the price of our shares.

 

FINRA rules require broker-dealers to have reasonable grounds for believing that an investment is suitable for a customer before recommending that investment to the customer. Prior to recommending speculative low-priced securities to their non-institutional customers, broker-dealers must make reasonable efforts to obtain information about the customer’s financial status, tax status and investment objectives, among other things. Under interpretations of these rules, FINRA believes that there is a high probability such speculative low-priced securities will not be suitable for at least some customers. Thus, FINRA requirements may make it more difficult for broker-dealers to recommend that their customers buy our common shares, which may limit your ability to buy and sell our shares, have an adverse effect on the market for our shares and, thereby, depress their market prices.

 

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

 

The market for our common shares may have, when compared to seasoned issuers, significant price volatility, and we expect that our share price may continue to be more volatile than that of a seasoned issuer for the indefinite future. In the past, plaintiffs have often initiated securities class action litigation against a company following periods of volatility in the market price of its securities. We may, in the future, be the target of similar litigation. Securities litigation could result in substantial costs and liabilities and could divert management’s attention and resources. 

 

We have broad discretion in the use of the net proceeds from this offering and may not use them effectively. 

 

Our management has broad discretion in the application of the net proceeds from that offering, and you do not have the opportunity to assess whether the net proceeds are being used appropriately. Because of the number and variability of factors that will determine our use of the net proceeds from this offering, their ultimate use may vary substantially from their currently intended use. The failure by our management to apply those funds effectively could harm our business.

 

Provisions in our corporate charter documents and under Delaware law could make an acquisition of our company, which may be beneficial to our stockholders, more difficult and may prevent attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management.

 

Provisions in our corporate charter and our bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a merger, acquisition or other change in control of our company that stockholders may consider favorable, including transactions in which you might otherwise receive a premium for your shares. These provisions could also limit the price that investors might be willing to pay in the future for shares of our common stock, thereby depressing the market price of our common stock. In addition, because our board of directors is responsible for appointing the members of our management team, these provisions may frustrate or prevent any attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management by making it more difficult for stockholders to replace members of our board of directors. Among other things, these provisions:

 

our board of directors is divided into three classes, one class of which is elected each year by our stockholders with the directors in each class to serve for a three-year term;

 

the authorized number of directors can be changed only by resolution of our board of directors;

 

directors may be removed only by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least sixty percent (60%) of our voting stock, whether for cause or without cause;

 

our bylaws may be amended or repealed by our board of directors or by the affirmative vote of sixty-six and two-thirds percent (66 2/3%) of our stockholders;

 

stockholders may not call special meetings of the stockholders or fill vacancies on the board of directors;

 

our board of directors will be authorized to issue, without stockholder approval, preferred stock, the rights of which will be determined at the discretion of the board of directors and that, if issued, could operate as a “poison pill” to dilute the stock ownership of a potential hostile acquirer to prevent an acquisition that our board of directors does not approve;

 

our stockholders do not have cumulative voting rights, and therefore our stockholders holding a majority of the shares of common stock outstanding will be able to elect all of our directors; and

 

our stockholders must comply with advance notice provisions to bring business before or nominate directors for election at a stockholder meeting.

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Moreover, because we are incorporated in Delaware, we are governed by the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which prohibits a person who owns in excess of 15% of our outstanding voting stock from merging or combining with us for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person acquired in excess of 15% of our outstanding voting stock, unless the merger or combination is approved in a prescribed manner.

 

Our Certificate of Incorporation and our bylaws provide that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will be the exclusive forum for certain types of state actions that may be initiated by our stockholders, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, or employees.

 

Our Certificate of Incorporation and our bylaws provide that, unless we consent to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware is the exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of us, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors, officers, or other employees to us or our stockholders, (iii) any action arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL or our certificate of incorporation or bylaws (as either may be amended from time to time), or (iv) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine. We believe that the exclusive forum provision may not apply to suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Securities Act or the Exchange Act or any other claim for which the federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction. We believe that to the extent that any such claims may be based upon federal law claims, Section 27 of the Exchange Act creates exclusive federal jurisdiction over all suits brought to enforce any duty or liability created by the Exchange Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. Furthermore, we believe that Section 22 of the Securities Act creates concurrent jurisdiction for federal and state courts over all suits brought to enforce any duty or liability created by the Securities Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. 

 

These exclusive-forum provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or our directors, employees, control persons, underwriters, or agents, which may discourage lawsuits against us and our directors, employees, control persons, underwriters, or agents. Additionally, a court could determine that the exclusive forum provision is unenforceable, and our stockholders will not be deemed to have waived our compliance with the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. If a court were to find these provisions of our bylaws inapplicable to, or unenforceable in respect of, one or more of the specified types of actions or proceedings, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving such matters in other jurisdictions, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations.

 

We presently intend to retain our earnings, if any, to finance the development and growth of our business and operations and do not anticipate declaring or paying cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future.

 

Any future determination as to the declaration and payment of dividends, if any, will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on then-existing conditions, including our operating results, financial condition, contractual restrictions, capital requirements, business prospects, and other factors our board of directors may deem relevant. See “Risk Factors — Risks Relating to This Offering and Ownership of Our Common Stock — We do not intend to pay dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future” and “Description of Certain Indebtedness.”

 

USE OF PROCEEDS

 

We estimate that the net proceeds from our issuance and sale of [   ] shares of our common stock in this offering will be approximately $[   ] million, assuming an initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the estimated offering price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full to cover overallotments, if any, we estimate that our net proceeds will be approximately $[   ] million.

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A $1.00 increase (decrease) in the assumed initial public offering price of $[   ] per share would increase (decrease) the aggregate net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $[   ] million, assuming the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same and after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Similarly, each increase (decrease) of 250,000 shares in the number of shares offered by us would increase (decrease) the net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $[   ] million, assuming that the assumed initial public offering price remains the same, and after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

 

The principal purposes of this offering are to obtain additional capital to support our operations, establish a public market for our common stock and facilitate our future access to the public capital markets. We currently anticipate that we will use the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing resources, as follows:

 

approximately $1,500,000 for production and marketing of our larger fully equipped boats. Due to their size, the larger boats will require us to acquire specialized equipment such as overhead cranes and industrial grade gantry systems to lift and move the boats, engines and load the boats on extra-large custom designed boat trailers;

 

approximately $2,500,000 for the design, development, testing, manufacturing and marketing of our new line of electric boats;

 

approximately $6,000,000 for the design, development, testing, manufacturing and marketing of our fully electric propulsion system;

 

approximately $3,500,000 for acquisition of waterfront property and development of the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center, in Fort Pierce, Florida to build, design and manufacture our electric propulsion systems.

 

the balance for working capital.

 

We believe opportunities may exist from time to time to expand our current business through acquisitions of, or investments in, complementary businesses, products or technologies. While we currently have no agreements or commitments to complete any such transaction at this time, we may use a portion of the net proceeds for these purposes.

 

The expected use of net proceeds from this offering represents our intentions based upon our current plans and business conditions, which could change in the future as our plans and business conditions evolve. The amounts and timing of our actual expenditures may vary significantly depending on numerous factors, including the progress of our development and any unforeseen cash needs. As a result, our management will retain broad discretion over the allocation of the net proceeds. We cannot specify with certainty all of the particular uses for the net proceeds to be received upon the closing of this offering.

 

Based on our current operational plans and assumptions, we expect that the net proceeds from this offering together with our existing cash and grant funding balances will be sufficient to fund our operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements for at least 12 months from the closing of this offering. We have based this estimate on assumptions that may prove to be incorrect, and we could use our available capital resources sooner that we currently expect. Pending use of the proceeds as described above, we intend to invest the proceeds in a variety of capital preservation investments, including interest-bearing, investment-grade instruments and U.S. government securities.

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DIVIDEND POLICY

 

We presently intend to retain our earnings, if any, to finance the development and growth of our business and operations and do not anticipate declaring or paying cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future.

 

Any future determination as to the declaration and payment of dividends, if any, will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on then-existing conditions, including our operating results, financial condition, contractual restrictions, capital requirements, business prospects, and other factors our board of directors may deem relevant. See “Risk Factors — Risks Relating to This Offering and Ownership of Our Common Stock — We do not intend to pay dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future” and “Description of Certain Indebtedness.”

 

CAPITALIZATION

 

The following table sets forth our cash and capitalization as of December 31, 2020, as follows:

 

● on an actual basis; and

 

● on an as adjusted basis to give further effect to our issuance and sale of [   ] shares of our common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions, estimated offering expenses payable and repayment of debts of $[   ] million.

 

    December 31, 2020  
    Actual     As Adjusted(1)  
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 891,816          
Notes payable   $ 499,900          
Stockholder’s equity:                
Common stock, par value $0.001 per share; [   ] shares authorized; [   ] shares issued and outstanding, actual; [   ] shares authorized, [   ] shares issued and outstanding, as adjusted; [   ] shares authorized, [   ] shares issued and outstanding, as adjusted     [    ]          
Additional paid-in capital     2,555,386          
Accumulated deficit     (1,006,547 )        
Total stockholders’ equity     1,548,840          
Total capitalization   $ [    ]          

 

(1) The as adjusted balance sheet data in the table above reflects the sale and issuance by us of shares of our common stock in this offering, based upon the assumed initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

 

Each $1.00 increase (decrease) in the assumed initial public offering price of  $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the estimated offering price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase (decrease) our as adjusted cash, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ equity (deficit) and total capitalization by approximately $[   ] million, assuming the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Each increase (decrease) of 250,000 shares in the number of shares of common stock offered by us would increase (decrease) our as adjusted cash, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ equity (deficit) and total capitalization by approximately $[   ] million, assuming the assumed initial public offering price of  $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the estimated offering price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. The as adjusted information discussed above is illustrative only and will be adjusted based on the actual public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing.

 

The number of shares of common stock that will be outstanding after this offering is based on [   ] shares of common stock outstanding as of [   ], 2021, and excludes the following:

 

● [   ] shares of common stock reserved for future issuance as of [   ], 2021, under our 2021 Stock Incentive Plan.

 

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DILUTION

 

If you invest in our common stock in this offering, your ownership interest will be diluted immediately to the extent of the difference between the initial public offering price per share of our common stock and the as adjusted net tangible book value per share of our common stock immediately after this offering.

 

Our historical net tangible book value (deficit) as of [   ], 2021 was ($[   ]), or ($[   ]) per share of our common stock. Our historical net tangible book value (deficit) is the amount of our total tangible assets less our total liabilities. Historical net tangible book value per share represents historical net tangible book value (deficit) divided by the number of shares of our common stock outstanding as of [   ], 2021.

 

After giving further effect to our issuance and sale of [   ] shares of common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the estimated offering price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions, estimated offering expenses payable by us, our as adjusted net tangible book value as of [   ], 2021 would have been approximately $[   ], or approximately $[   ] per share. This represents an immediate increase in as adjusted net tangible book value per share of  $[   ] to our existing stockholders and an immediate dilution in as adjusted net tangible book value per share of approximately $[   ] to new investors purchasing common stock in this offering. Dilution per share to new investors purchasing common stock in this offering is determined by subtracting as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering from the assumed initial public offering price per share paid by new investors.

 

The following table illustrates this dilution on a per share basis:

 

Assumed initial public offering price per share           $    
Historical net tangible book value (deficit) per share as of December 31, 2020   $            
Increase in as adjusted net tangible book value (deficit) per share as of December 31, 2020                
As adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering   $            
Dilution per share to new investors purchasing shares in this offering           $    

  

Each $1.00 increase (decrease) in the assumed initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the estimated offering price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase (decrease) the as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by $[   ] per share and the dilution to new investors purchasing common stock in this offering by $[   ] per share, assuming the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. An increase of 250,000 shares in the number of shares offered by us would increase the as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by $[   ] and decrease the dilution per share to new investors participating in this offering by $[   ], assuming no change in the assumed initial public offering price and after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. A decrease of 250,000 shares in the number of shares offered by us would decrease the as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by $[   ] and increase the dilution per share to new investors participating in this offering by $[   ], assuming no change in the assumed initial public offering price and after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

 

If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase [   ] additional shares of common stock in this offering in full at the assumed initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the estimated offering price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, and assuming the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us, the as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering would be $[   ] per share, and the dilution in as adjusted net tangible book value per share to new investors purchasing common stock in this offering would be $[   ] per share.

 

The number of shares of common stock that will be outstanding after this offering is based on [   ] shares of common stock outstanding as of [   ], 2021, and excludes the following:

  

  [   ] shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2021 Stock Incentive Plan.

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To the extent that any outstanding options are exercised or new options are issued under the equity benefit plans, or we issue additional shares of common stock or convertible securities in the future, there will be further dilution to investors participating in this offering.

 

The following table summarizes, on an as adjusted basis as of December 31, 2020, after giving effect to the aggregate of [   ] shares of our common stock upon the closing of this offering, the total consideration paid or to be paid and the average price per share paid or to be paid by existing stockholders and by new investors in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $[   ] per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, before deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. As the table shows, new investors purchasing common stock in this offering will pay an average price per share substantially higher than our existing stockholders paid.

 

    Shares Purchased     Total Consideration     Weighted
Average Price
Per Share
 
    Number     Percent     Amount     Percent        
Existing stockholders before this offering                                        
Investors participating in this offering                                        
Total                                        

 

The table above assumes no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase [   ] additional shares in this offering. If the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares is exercised in full, the number of shares of our common stock held by existing stockholders would be reduced to [   ]% of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding after this offering, and the number of shares of common stock held by new investors participating in the offering would be increased to [   ]% of the total number of shares outstanding after this offering.

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

 

You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with our financial statements and the related notes to those statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. This discussion and analysis and other parts of this prospectus contain forward-looking statements based upon current beliefs, plans and expectations related to future events and our future financial performance that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, such as statements regarding our intentions, plans, objectives, expectations, forecasts and projections. Our actual results and the timing of selected events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of several factors, including those set forth under the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus. You should carefully read the “Risk Factors” to gain an understanding of the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. Please also see the section titled “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

 

The recent and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic could materially affect our operations, as well as the business or operations of third parties with whom we conduct business. Our business could be adversely affected by the effects of other future health epidemics or pandemics in regions where we or third parties on which we rely have significant business operations.

 

Overview

 

We are a designer, manufacturer and marketer of recreational and commercial power catamaran boats. We believe our company has been an innovator in the recreational and commercial power catamaran industry. We currently have over 12 models in production ranging in size from our 24-foot, dual engine, center console to our newly designed 40-foot offshore 400 GFX. Our twin-hull catamaran running surface, known as a symmetrical catamaran hull design, adds to the Twin Vee ride quality by reducing drag, increasing fuel efficiency and offering users a stable riding boat. Twin Vee’s home base operations in Fort Pierce Florida is a 7.5-acre facility with several buildings totaling over 75,000 square feet. We employ approximately 85 people, some of whom have been with our company for over twenty years.

 

Our boats allow consumers to use them for a wide range of recreational activities including fishing, diving and water skiing and commercial activities including transportation, eco tours, fishing and diving expeditions. We believe that the performance, quality and value of our boats position us to achieve our goal of increasing our market share and expanding the power catamaran boating market. We primarily sell our boats through a current network of 10 independent boat dealers in 14 locations across North America and the Caribbean who resell our boats to the end user Twin Vee customers. We continue recruiting efforts for high quality boat dealers and seek to establish new dealers and distributors domestically and internationally to distribute our boats as we grow our production and introduce new models.

 

Twin Vee boats are currently outfitted with outboard combustion engines. Due to the growing demand for sustainable, environmentally friendly electric and alternative fuel commercial and recreational vehicles. Twin Vee has begun designing and developing products under the name “Electra Power Sports” or “ELECTRA”. We are developing a line of electric catamaran boats ranging in size from 18-feet to 26-feet. Our ELECTRA Power Sports™ Division is designing and developing a fully electric outboard motor propulsion system, we currently have five (5) engineers working on the designs, mechanicals, electrical and the many systems required to produce a working prototype. Our ELECTRA outboard motor propulsion system is designed to be compatible with many brands and models of recreational and sport watercraft boats, including twin hull catamaran boats and mono hull style boats. We intend to market the ELECTRA electric outboard motor propulsion system to other independent boat manufacturers after we complete our design, build the prototype and complete our tests on the motor. We envision significant inroads with boat manufacturers to retrofit various hull configurations replacing traditional gas and diesel fuel powered fuel compartments with battery packs and existing boat owners could also retrofit their existing gas and diesel fuel powered boats with Electra’s outboards and battery packs.

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Components of Results of Operations

 

Results of Operations

 

The following table provides certain selected financial information for the periods presented:

 

    Years Ended December 31,  
    2020     2019     % change  
Net sales   $ 11,063,619     $ 10,432,517       6 %
Cost of Products Sold   $ 6,289,316     $ 6,354,968       1 %
Gross profit   $ 4,774,303     $ 4,077,549       17 %
Total operating costs     4,053,469       4,238,776       (4 %)
Income (loss) from operations   $ 720,834     $ (161,227 )     535  
Total other income (expense), net     450,243       (165,468 )     372  
Net Income / (loss)   $ 1,171,077     $ (326,695 )     458  
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share   $ 11,711     $ (3,267 )        

  

Net sales

 

The increase in net sales of 6% for the year ended December 31, 2020 to $11,063,619 as compared to $10,432,517 for the year ended December 31, 2019 was driven by three factors: (1) the introduction of a new higher priced model, the 280 GFX, (2) a price increase on all Twin Vee models due to an increase cost of materials and labor, and (3) the reduction and removal of several dealer incentive discounts due to an increased demand for our product.

 

Cost of Products Sold

 

For the year ended December 31, 2020, labor costs increased due to the hiring of additional skilled employees in response to an increased demand for our products. We are also taking the necessary steps to attract and retain the talent required to build and design larger Twin Vee boats in a job market that continues to recover from the pandemic. Our new GFX model line of boats has a better fit and finish and therefore requires a more skilled and knowledgeable employee to build these boats that demand higher compensation. Overall, we have seen an approximately 5-8% increase in the cost of our boats in recent months due to increased labor costs.

 

Gross profit

 

The increase in our gross profit margins of $696,754 to $4,774,303 or approximately 17% for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to 4,077,549 for the year ended December 31, 2019 is primarily attributable to larger and more expensive boats being sold during the year ended December 31, 2020, and to a lesser extent was offset by higher labor costs attributable to hiring and retaining better qualified employees to build our boats. These same employees are more experienced and build our boats faster, meeting or beating expected scheduled completions dates and in turn reducing our over-time costs which was previously required to meet scheduled delivery dates. Overall, we have continued to improve the management of our labor, costs, controls and meeting scheduled delivery dates.

 

Total operating costs

 

Total operating costs incurred for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased by approximately 4.4% to $4,053,469 as compared to $4,238,776 for the year ended December 31, 2019. Operating costs include salaries and wages, selling and administrative expenses, professional fees and depreciation. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, our largest operating cost was salaries and wages, which represented 70% and 76% of our operating costs, respectively. The reduction in total operating costs from 2019 to 2020 is primarily attributable to the staff reductions and production slow down during the months of March through June 2020 as a result of COVD-19. Production during the first half of 2020 was reduced to one boat per week as opposed to two and one half boats per week pre-COVID.-19. As sales increased during the second half of the year, we added additional employees to fulfill production. Selling and administrative expenses increased 10% for the year ended December 31, 2020 to $872,669 as compared to $786,548 for the year ended December 31, 2019 as a direct result of increased sales in the second half of 2020. Professional fees increased 10% for the year ended December 31, 2020 to $167,299 as compared to $95,191 for the year ended December 31, 2019 as we had higher fees in preparation for our public offering. Depreciation expenses increased 35% for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2019 due to (1) plant improvements to facilitate the production process into a linear design for more efficient output, (2) roof repairs and insulation of existing structures, and (3) automation equipment for our thermoform internal parts as well as a CNC cutting machine for our upholstery department. We anticipate that our selling and administration expenses will increase slightly throughout 2021, inclusive of salaries, travel and professional fees.

 

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Total other income (expense), net

 

Total other income (expense), net, for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $450,243 as compared to a net expense of ($165,468) for the year ended December 31, 2019. Total other income items for the year ended December 31, 2020 included a gain the forgiveness of the Payroll Protection Program “PPP” loan of $609,500, a gain on the sale of assets of $19,327, offset by interest expense of $178,584 that we paid on amounts advanced to us for working capital.. Total other expense for the year ended December 31, 2019 was primarily attributable to interest expense that we paid on

amounts advanced to us for working capital.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources 

 

The following table provides selected financial data about us as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

 

Working Capital 

 

    December 31,     December 31,  
    2020     2019  
Cash   $ 891,816     $ 215,574  
Other Current Assets   $ 968,126     $ 716,352  
Total Current Assets   $ 1,859,942     $ 931,926  
Total Current Liabilities   $ (1,440,067 )   $ (1,619,797 )
Working Capital / (Deficit)   $ 419,875     $ (684,871 )

 

As of December 31 2020, our cash balance was $891,816 and total current assets were $1,859,942. As of December 31, 2019, our cash balance was $215,574 and total current assets were $931,926.

 

As of December 31, 2020, our company had total current liabilities of $1,440,067, compared with total liabilities of $1,619,797 as of December 31, 2019, which included long-term operating lease liabilities for the lease of our facility and an EIDL SBA loan.

 

As of December 31, 2020, our company had a working capital of $419,875 compared with working capital deficit of ($684,871) as of December 31, 2019. The increase in working capital of $1,104,746 was primarily attributed to an increase in cash and inventory balances due to an increase in income and revenues and a decrease in capital leases.

 

Cash Flows

 

The following table sets forth the significant sources and uses of cash for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

 

    December 31, 2020     December 31, 2019  
             
Cash Flows Provided by / (Used) in Operating Activities   $ 1,308,653     $ (269,396 )
Cash Flows Used in Investing Activities   $ (175,452 )   $ (647,740 )
Cash Flows From / (Used in) Financing Activities   $ (456,959 )   $ 1,136,961  
Net Change in Cash During the year end   $ 676,242     $ 191,825  

 

Cash Flow from Operating Activities

 

During the year ended December 31, 2020, we had net income of $1,171,077 and provided for a net of $137,576 in additional operating assets for a total increase of $1,308,653 in net cash operating activities. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we incurred a net loss of $326,695 that was offset by a net increase in operating assets of $57,299 for a total of $269,396 in net cash used in operating activities.

 

Cash Flow from Investing Activities

 

During the year ended December 31, 2020, we purchased manufacturing equipment in the amount of $521,196 and sold manufacturing equipment in the amount $349,744 for net cash used in investing activities of $175,452. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we purchased manufacturing equipment in the amount of $674,740.

 

Cash Flow from Financing Activities

 

During the year ended December 31, 2020, net cash used in financing activities of $456,959 included capital contributions of $262,156 from our parent company, proceeds from a EIDL SBA loan of $499,900, and was offset by the repayment of notes payable to our Chief Executive Officer of $497,650, payments on our operating leases of $445,760 and payments of $275,605 for operating leases. During year ended December 31, 2019, net cash provided by financing activities of $1,136,961 included capital contributions from our parent company of $1,254,494, offset by payments of $117,533 for operating leases.

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Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Estimates

 

This discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported expenses incurred during the reporting periods. Our estimates are based on our historical experience and on various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. While our significant accounting policies are described in more detail in the notes to our financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus, we believe that the following accounting policies are critical to understanding our historical and future performance, as these policies relate to the more significant areas involving management’s judgments and estimates.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company’s revenue is derived primarily from the sale of boats, motors and trailers to its independent dealers. The Company recognizes revenue when obligations under the terms of a contract are satisfied and control over promised goods is transferred to the dealer. For the majority of sales, this occurs when the product is released to the carrier responsible for transporting it to a dealer. The Company typically receives payment within five business days of shipment. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration it expects to receive in exchange for a product. The Company offers dealer incentives that include wholesale rebates, retail rebates and promotions, floor plan reimbursement or cash discounts, and other allowances that are recorded as reductions of revenues in net sales in the statements of operations. The consideration recognized represents the amount specified in a contract with a customer, net of estimated incentives the Company reasonably expects to pay. The estimated liability and reduction in revenue for dealer incentives is recorded at the time of sale. Subsequent adjustments to incentive estimates are possible because actual results may differ from these estimates if conditions dictate the need to enhance or reduce sales promotion and incentive programs or if dealer achievement or other items vary from historical trends. Accrued dealer incentives are included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the accompanying balance sheets

 

The Company accounts for revenue in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 606 which was adopted at the beginning of fiscal year 2018 using the modified retrospective method. The Company did not recognize any cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings upon adoption as the effect was immaterial.

 

Payment received for the future sale of a boat to a customer is recognized as a customer deposit, which is included in contract liabilities on the balance sheet. Customer deposits are recognized as revenue when control over promised goods is transferred to the customer. The customer deposit balance as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, was $6,784 and $71,502 respectively, and is expected to be recognized as revenue within a one-year period.

 

Rebates and Discounts

 

Dealers earn wholesale rebates based on purchase volume commitments and achievement of certain performance metrics. The Company estimates the amount of wholesale rebates based on historical achievement, forecasted volume, and assumptions regarding dealer behavior. Rebates that apply to boats already in dealer inventory are referred to as retail rebates. The Company estimates the amount of retail rebates based on historical data for specific boat models adjusted for forecasted sales volume, product mix, dealer and consumer behavior, and assumptions concerning market conditions. The Company also utilizes various programs whereby it offers cash discounts or agrees to reimburse its dealers for certain floor plan interest costs incurred by dealers for limited periods of time, generally ranging up to nine months.

 

Shipping and Handling Costs

 

Shipping and handling costs includes those costs incurred to transport product to customers and internal handling costs, which relate to activities to prepare goods for shipment. The Company has elected to account for shipping and handling costs associated with outbound freight after control over a product has transferred to a customer as a fulfillment cost. The Company includes shipping and handling costs, including costs billed to customers, in cost of sales in the statements of operations.

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Other Revenue Recognition Matters

 

Dealers generally have no right to return unsold boats. Occasionally, the Company may accept returns in limited circumstances and at the Company’s discretion under its warranty policy. The Company may be obligated, in the event of default by a dealer, to accept returns of unsold boats under its repurchase commitment to floor financing providers, who are able to obtain such boats through foreclosure. The repurchase commitment is on an individual unit basis with a term from the date it is financed by the lending institution through the payment date by the dealer, generally not exceeding 30 months.

 

The Company has excluded sales and other taxes assessed by a governmental authority in connection with revenue- producing activities from the determination of the transaction price for all contracts. The Company has not adjusted net sales for the effects of a significant financing component because the period between the transfer of the promised goods and the customer’s payment is expected to be one year or less.

 

Concentrations of Credit and Business Risk

 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk primarily consist of trade receivables. Credit risk on trade receivables is mitigated as a result of the Company’s use of trade letters of credit, dealer floor plan financing arrangements, and the geographically diversified nature of the Company’s customer base. The Company minimizes the concentration of credit risk associated with its cash by maintaining its cash with high quality federally insured financial institutions. However, cash balances in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insured limit of $250,000 are at risk. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company had $320,863 and $0 in excess of FDIC insured limits.

 

Supplier Concentrations

 

The Company is dependent on the ability of its suppliers to provide products on a timely basis and on favorable pricing terms. The loss of certain principal suppliers or a significant reduction in product availability from principal suppliers could have a material adverse effect on the Company. Business risk insurance is in place to mitigate the business risk associated with sole suppliers for sudden disruptions such as those caused by natural disasters.

 

The Company is dependent on third-party equipment manufacturers, distributors, and dealers for certain parts and materials utilized in the manufacturing process. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company purchased all engines for its boats under a supply agreement with a single vendor. Total purchases to this vendor were $1,898,327 and $1,782,606 respectively for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States “U.S. GAAP” requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Included in those estimates are assumptions about allowances for inventory obsolescence, useful life of fixed assets, warranty reserves and bad-debt reserves.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase. On December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company did not have any cash equivalents.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The carrying amounts of cash, accounts receivable, prepaid expenses and other assets, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and notes payable to stockholder approximate their fair values as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, because of their short-term natures.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Net realizable value is defined as sales price less cost of completion, disposable and transportation and a normal profit margin. Production costs, consisting of labor and overhead, are applied to ending finished goods inventories at a rate based on estimated production capacity. Excess production costs are charged to cost of products sold. Provisions have been made to reduce excess or obsolete inventories to their net realizable value.

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Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, except for assets held under capital leases, for which the Company records depreciation and amortization based on the shorter of the asset’s useful life or the term of the lease. The estimated useful lives of property and equipment range from three to five years. Upon sale or retirement, the cost and related accumulated depreciation and amortization are eliminated from their respective accounts, and the resulting gain or loss is included in results of operations. Repairs and maintenance charges, which do not increase the useful lives of the assets, are charged to operations as incurred.

 

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

 

Management assesses the recoverability of its long-lived assets when indicators of impairment are present. If such indicators are present, recoverability of these assets is determined by comparing the undiscounted net cash flows estimated to result from those assets over the remaining life to the assets’ net carrying amounts. If the estimated undiscounted net cash flows are less than the net carrying amount, the assets would be adjusted to their fair value, based on appraisal or the present value of the undiscounted net cash flows.

 

Product Warranty Costs

 

As required by FASB ASC Topic 460, Guarantees, the Company is including the following disclosure applicable to its product warranties.

 

The Company accrues for warranty costs based on the expected material and labor costs to provide warranty replacement products. The methodology used in determining the liability for warranty cost is based upon historical information and experience. The Company’s warranty reserve is calculated as the gross sales multiplied by the historical warranty expense return rate.

 

The following table shows the changes in the aggregate product warranty liability for the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively:

 

    2020     2019  
Balance as of beginning of year   $ 75,000     $ 75,000  
Less: Payments made     (63,606 )     (59,668 )
Add: Provision for current years warranty     63,606       59,668  
Balance as of end of year   $ 75,000     $ 75,000  

 

Advertising Costs

 

Advertising and marketing costs are expensed as incurred. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, advertising costs incurred by the Company totaled $28,736 and $19,570, respectively, and are included in selling and administrative expenses in the accompanying statements of operations included in the financial statements.

 

Leases

 

The Company adopted FASB Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-02, Leases (“Topic 842”), using the modified retrospective adoption method with an effective date of January 1, 2019. This standard requires all lessees to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability, initially measured at the present value of the lease payments.

 

Under Topic 842, the Company applied a dual approach to all leases whereby the Company is a lessee and classifies leases as either finance or operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase by the Company. Lease classification is evaluated at the inception of the lease agreement.

 

Paycheck Protection Program

 

U.S. GAAP does not contain authoritative accounting standards for forgivable loans provided by governmental entities to a for-profit entity. Absent authoritative accounting standards, interpretative guidance issued and commonly applied by financial statement preparers allows for the selection of accounting policies amongst acceptable alternatives. Based on the facts and circumstances, the Company determined it most appropriate to account for the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan proceeds as an in-substance government grant by analogy to International Accounting Standards 20 “(IAS 20)”, Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance. Under the provisions of IAS 20, “a forgivable loan from government is treated as a government grant when there is reasonable assurance that the entity will meet the terms for forgiveness of the loan.” IAS 20 does not define “reasonable assurance”; however, based on certain interpretations, it is analogous to “probable” as defined in FASB ASC Subtopic 450-20-20 under U.S. GAAP, which is the definition the Company has applied to its expectations of PPP loan forgiveness. Under IAS 20, government grants are recognized in earnings on a systematic basis over the periods in which the Company recognizes costs for which the grant is intended to compensate (i.e., qualified expenses). Further, IAS 20 permits for the recognition in earnings either (1) separately under a general heading such as other income, or (2) as a reduction of the related expenses. The Company has elected to recognize government grant income separately within other income to present a clearer distinction in its financial statements between its operating income and the amount of net income resulting from the PPP loan and forgiveness.

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Income Taxes

 

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, the Company follows the guidance in FASB ASC Topic 740, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes. At December 31, 2020, the Company does not believe it has any uncertain tax positions that would require either recognition or disclosure in the accompanying financial statements.

 

Income or loss and credits from the Company are passed through to the shareholders and reported on the shareholders’ income tax returns. As such, there is no provision for income taxes. If applicable, the Company would recognize interest and penalties associated with tax matters as part of operating expenses and include accrued interest and penalties with the related tax liability in its financial statements.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

All other newly issued accounting pronouncements not yet effective have been deemed either immaterial or not applicable.

 

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Under standards established by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, or PCAOB, a deficiency in internal control over financial reporting exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management or personnel, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis. The PCAOB defines a material weakness as a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented, or detected and corrected, on a timely basis.

 

During the preparation of our financial statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, we identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting related to the financial close and financial reporting, which included an error in inventory in the approximate amount of $227,000 for the use of the wrong unit of measure for an inventory item and cost of sales and errors discovered during the testing of the December 31, 2019 balances, which included differences between the ledger and supporting schedules relating to inventory, property and equipment, accounts payable, accrued expenses, additional paid-in capital, revenue, cost of sales, gross margin and general and administrative expenses. As a result of the material weaknesses, we failed to timely detect and correct a misstatement within inventory which impacted cost of sales and gross margin . The accompanying financial statements were corrected to reflect the impact of the adjustment.

 

We are in the process of implementing measures designed to improve our internal control over financial reporting to remediate these material weaknesses. The Company’s plan to remediate the material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting includes utilizing a portion of the working capital from its initial public offering to increase staffing within its finance department sufficient to facilitate proper segregation of accounting functions and to enable appropriate review of its internally prepared financial statements. In addition, the Company plans to retain outside consultants, expert in, and specializing in SEC reporting for public company registrants.

 

JOBS Act

 

The JOBS Act permits an emerging growth company such as us to take advantage of an extended transition period to comply with new or revised accounting standards applicable to public companies until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. We have elected to avail ourselves of the extended transition period for complying with new or revised financial accounting standards.

 

We will remain an emerging growth company until the earliest of  (i) the last day of our first fiscal year in which we have total annual gross revenues of  $1.07 billion or more; (ii) the date on which we are deemed to be a “large accelerated filer” under the rules of the SEC with at least $700.0 million of outstanding equity securities held by non-affiliates; (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt securities during the previous three years; or (iv) the last day of our fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the date of the completion of this offering.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

As a smaller reporting company, we are not required to provide disclosure regarding quantitative and qualitative market risk.

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BUSINESS

 

Overview

 

Twin Vee PowerCats Co. (“Twin Vee” “we”, ‘us” or the “Company”) is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of recreational and commercial power catamaran boats. We believe our company has been an innovator in the recreational and commercial power catamaran industry. We currently have over 12 models in production ranging in size from our 24-foot, dual engine, center console to our newly designed 40-foot offshore 400 GFX. Our twin-hull catamaran running surface, known as a symmetrical catamaran hull design, adds to the Twin Vee ride quality by reducing drag, increasing fuel efficiency and offering users a stable riding boat. Twin Vee’s home base operations in Fort Pierce Florida is a 7.5-acre facility with several buildings totaling over 75,000 square feet. We employ approximately 85 people, some of whom have been with our company for over twenty years.

 

Our boats allow consumers to use them for a wide range of recreational activities including fishing, diving and water skiing and commercial activities including transportation, eco tours, fishing and diving expeditions. We believe that the performance, quality and value of our boats position us to achieve our goal of increasing our market share and expanding the power catamaran boating market. We primarily sell our boats through a current network of 10 independent boat dealers in 14 locations across North America and the Caribbean who resell our boats to the end user Twin Vee customers. We continue recruiting efforts for high quality boat dealers and seek to establish new dealers and distributors domestically and internationally to distribute our boats as we grow our production and introduce new models.

 

Twin Vee boats are currently outfitted with outboard combustion engines. Due to the growing demand for sustainable, environmentally friendly electric and alternative fuel commercial and recreational vehicles. Twin Vee has begun designing and developing products under the name “Electra Power Sports” or “ELECTRA”. We are developing a line of electric catamaran boats ranging in size from 18-feet to 26-feet. Our ELECTRA Power Sports™ Division is designing and developing a fully electric outboard motor propulsion system, we currently have five (5) engineers working on the designs, mechanicals, electrical and the many systems required to produce a working prototype. Our ELECTRA outboard motor propulsion system is designed to be compatible with many brands and models of recreational and sport watercraft boats, including twin hull catamaran boats and mono hull style boats. We intend to market the ELECTRA electric outboard motor propulsion system to other independent boat manufacturers after we complete our design, build the prototype and complete our tests on the motor. We envision significant inroads with boat manufacturers to retrofit various hull configurations replacing traditional gas and diesel fuel powered fuel compartments with battery packs and existing boat owners could also retrofit their existing gas and diesel fuel powered boats with Electra’s outboards and battery packs.

 

Our Strengths and Competitive Advantages

 

We believe that the following are key investment attributes of our Company.

 

Recognized Brand. We believe the Twin Vee brand is well-known among boating enthusiasts for performance, quality, and value, and that the market recognizes Twin Vee as a brand in the twin hull sport boat category due to the value proposition that our boats deliver.

 

Diverse Product OfferingWe are able to attract consumers across multiple categories within the recreational powerboat industry. We currently have twelve (12) different catamaran models in production that range from 24-feet to 40-feet long. In addition, we are currently designing a model line of electric powered catamarans ranging from 18-feet to 26-feet long.

 

Focus on Innovative Product Offerings. We are currently designing numerous new boat models to meet market demand. Our newly designed boats range from a fully electric model line that include an 18-foot and 22-foot Baycat that will be powered by a single outboard electric motor, a 26-foot twin motor outboard electric Oceancat and a 24-foot twin inboard/ outboard electric Oceancat. We are also developing two large off-shore power catamarans with traditional gas-powered engines, the 340 GFX and the largest Twin Vee to date, the 400 GFX. The 400 GFX is being designed to have a range of over 800 miles and will have the option of being powered by dual or quad engines. In addition, we are also designing and engineering an all-electric outboard propulsion system under the name “ELECTRA” for other makes and models of boats.

 

Price Point. Twin Vee has also made investments in infrastructure and engineering. These investments have resulted in lower material waste, reduced labor hours per boat, reduced re-work, and increased production efficiencies. Therefore, we are able to offer favorable pricing while increasing margins by controlling costs through disciplined engineering and manufacturing processes.

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Dealer Network. Our distribution network currently consists of 10 dealers located in North America and the Caribbean, many of which have been conducting business with us for several years. Currently, a majority of our dealers are located in Florida. We have dealerships in Crystal River, Eastpoint, Islandmorada, Palm Bay, Palm Harbor, Pompano Beach and Stuart, Florida. We also have dealerships in Gulf Shores, Alabama, Norwalk, Connecticut, Grasonville, Maryland, Tuckerton New Jersey, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina and Freeport, Texas. We have worked diligently with our dealers to cultivate a strong distribution network in the recreational powerboat industry. We believe that our distribution network allows us to distribute our products more broadly and effectively than our smaller competitors. We continually review our geographic coverage to identify opportunities for expansion and improvement, and will, where necessary, add dealer locations to address previously underserved markets or replace underperforming dealers.

 

Market Potential. According to the National Marine Manufacturer’s Association, or NMMA, more than 310,000 new powerboats were sold in 2020, levels the recreational boating industry has not seen since before the Great Recession in 2008. Our core market corresponds most directly to the outboard, twin hull, catamaran and open fisherman category, which we refer to as the sport powerboat category. We believe our addressable market also includes similar and adjacent powerboat categories identified by the NMMA, including center console boats, outboard boats, and all open sport fishing boats. For 2020, US sales of boats, marine products, and services are estimated to total $47 billion, up nine percent from 2019. Retail unit sales of new powerboats specifically increased last year by an estimated 12 percent compared to 2019. As a result, we believe the total annual addressable market for our products in the U.S. alone is greater than $4.4 billion.

 

Experienced Executive Team. We have established a management team and technical team of engineers with many members of the team having in excess of 20 or more years in their respective field. Our team has shown the ability to design and develop new products, enhance operations, strengthen our distribution network, and recruit industry talent. Our directive as a management team over the next few years will be to introduce new innovative products with scalability, to manufacture and market those products, and drive improvements to our manufacturing, quality, and product development systems and processes.

 

Joseph C. Visconti. Mr. Visconti has been our Chief Executive Officer, President and a director since July 2015. With over 25 years of executive level operational and financial experience, Mr. Visconti has experience building teams of professionals with a focus on product development and bringing those products to market.

 

Preston Yarborough. Mr. Yarborough brings over 23 years of marine experience to our team. In addition to his positions of Vice President and Director of Product Development, he holds a seat on the Board of Directors of Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc. For the last several years, Mr. Yarborough has led the design, development and production of all of our models and boats that we have sold.

 

Donna M. Barnett. Ms. Barnett has over 20 years of experience with financial control functions including all aspects of accounting in both the public, private and government sector. Ms. Barnett holds an MBA in Finance.

 

Jean Marc Zanni. Mr. Zanni is an experienced and knowledgeable senior electrical engineer, with a focus on fluid dynamics and marine engineering. Mr. Zanni specializes in integrating solutions for marine and industrial automation projects. He brings more than 20 years of industrial high-voltage electrical system practical experience to diligence, develop, and deliver innovative solutions to us. He has focused his efforts to bring energy management solutions to the harsh saltwater environment of marine applications.

 

Daniel Norton. Mr. Norton leads our engineering team. His engineering experience includes commercial marine robotic locking mechanisms for docking systems, development and machine design of industrial robotic equipment. Mr. Norton has spent over 20 years working in the technical design engineering arena for several companies including Caterpillar Inc., Gerber Technology, and ATI Industrial Automation, in various project management and engineering development positions. Mr. Norton holds in excess of 20 patents related to innovative electromechanical solutions for automation, boat docking, and work piece clamping, including the inventor of the patent application that we have filed with the United States Patent Office related to the electric propulsion system that we are developing.

 

Ryan Chicos. Mr. Chicos for over 15 years has been hands on involved with product development, prototyping, design, mechanical engineering and manufacturing processes. Mr. Chicos has worked to developed materials comprised of mechanical and chemical compositions. He has also developed two products for the recreational industry utilizing fluid dynamics and environmental sustainability.

 

Timothy Whybrew. Mr. Whybrew leads our production team. He has spent over 25 years working as a senior operations executive in various capacities. Mr. Whybrew brings approximately 30 years of team building and management experience to help drive the operational efficiencies required to maintain manufacturing schedules. One of his key focus points is driving the level of quality customers desire from our product line.

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Our Strategy

 

We intend to capitalize on the thriving broader marine industry through the following strategies:

 

Develop New and Innovative Products in Our Core Market. As an innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of catamaran powerboats, we strive to design new and inventive products that appeal to a broad customer base. After the completion of this offering, we intend on launching a number of new products and features with best-in-class quality, with the goal of increasing sales and significant margin expansion. For example, we plan to launch our 40-foot 400 Powercat GFX this year, our largest offshore catamaran with an 800-pound fuel capacity. We also have a 34-foot 340 Powercat GFX in the works that utilizes our latest four-piece construction build process and as discussed further below are developing a new line of electric catamaran boats ranging in size from 18-feet to 26-feet that will provide an alternative to traditionally-powered watercraft. Furthermore, our unique new product development process enables us to renew our product portfolio with innovative offerings at a rate that we believe will be difficult for our competitors to match without significant additional capital investments. We intend to release new products and features multiple times during the year, which we believe enhances our reputation as a cutting-edge boat manufacturer and will drive consumer interest in our products.

 

Increase the Catamaran PowerBoat Category Segment. Our near-term product development strategy is to expand our product line to reach underserved segments of the catamaran powerboat category that are distinct from our traditional customer base. For example, the “Twin 240E™” is being designed to be a fully electric version of our popular catamaran, the 24-foot center console PowerCat. The Twin Vee 240E, with a lower noise level than standard powerboats, is being designed to cater to the growing demand for sustainable, environmentally friendly electric and alternative fuel commercial and recreational vehicles. The design of the Twin Vee 240E , along with our existing supplier relationships, material agreements, and manufacturing processes, should allow us to offer this product line at an attractive price point for the consumer while sustaining our gross margins and the product attributes critical to the Twin Vee brand.

 

Capture Additional Share from Adjacent Boating Categories. Another focus to grow our market share is to enhance our ability to introduce new products with increased versatility, functionality, and performance to a more expansive customer base that values boats for both water sports and general recreational boating purposes. We intend on launching several marketing campaigns that will focus on new product launches and help to educate the market on our value proposition to customers.

 

Effectively Manage Dealer Inventory and Further Strengthen Our Dealer Network. We view our dealers as our partners and product champions. Therefore, we will continue to devote significant time and resources to finding high quality dealers and developing and improving their performance over time. We believe the quality and trust in our dealer relationships are more beneficial to our long-term success than the quantity of dealers.

 

Increase Our Sales in International Markets. We believe we have a brand that will have natural growth in international markets. Catamaran powerboats have already been accepted as the norm in many international markets. For example, with catamaran powerboats currently being 5% of the US market, catamaran powerboats make up over 30% of the Bahamian market. Based on our brand and product offering, as well as out potential distribution strengths, we believe we are well positioned to leverage our reputation and capture additional international sales. We believe that we will increase our international sales by promoting our products in developed markets where we have a dealer base and in international markets where rising consumer incomes are expected to increase demand for recreational products, such as Australia, Europe, Israel, Dubai, and Brazil. We are also developing new product offerings that will specifically target certain product demand from our international consumers and that we believe will drive further sales growth in international markets.

 

Our Products

 

Twin Vee’s Traditional Boats. We design and manufacture twelve (12) recreational powerboats models, of which ten have center consoles and two have dual consoles. We sell our boats under two model lines—the Twin Vee Classic models and the new Twin Vee GFX , or “Go Fish-X”, model line. Our GFX model line is our latest innovation in performance, comfort and convenience, and is designed for consumers seeking a premium boating experience. The Twin Vee Classic models continue to be a popular model line, they cost less than the newer GFX model and offer the consumer functional simplicity.

 

Throughout 2020, Twin Vee has worked to expand its product line, grow brand recognition and loyalty through social media, online marketing and new dealer expansion. In Q3 of 2020, Twin Vee launched its brand new 280 Center Console GFX model. This family friendly, offshore recreational fishing boat was seen as a big step up in fit and finish by our dealer network. Dealer acceptance and support is important because it’s the dealers who purchase our boats from us and own our boats until they sell the boats to an end user Twin Vee customer. Boat dealers want boats that sell quickly, so the dealer can turn over their inventory. Boats that don’t sell quickly, sit on dealer lots creating aging product and in most cases carry interest charges if floor plan loans is used to stock boat inventory.

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Our dealer network is important because while we are building and designing our boats in Fort Pierce Florida, our dealers in Florida Alabama, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Texas and Puerto Rico, or the Bahamas are the ones on the front line when a customer wants to see, touch and test a Twin Vee boat. We expect our dealer network to market our products through online advertising, print publications, boat shows and demo days. We work with our dealer network and train our dealers on our products, new developments, product updates, warranty, sales and marketing promotions. We allow the dealers the right to resell our boats , but each dealer is subject to strict policies, accountability and quality controls with respect to the dealers representation and presentation of our products. We rely on our dealer network to showcase our products, test ride customers, help customers with the finance, delivery and training when a new Twin Vee is purchased. by a customer. We meet with our dealers on a regular basis including annual dealer meetings, traditional communications and Zoom conference calls to make sure the dealer is educated on the product and can address all customer questions and concerns.

 

We are also manufacturing an all-new 40-foot center console, the Company’s largest vessel to date. The 40-foot Center Console was designed with more deck space, storage, comfort, and horsepower than our previous offerings.

 

Twin Vee has also improved and built upon its online platform over the past year. We unveiled our new website (www.twinvee.com) in the Spring of 2020. Designed and built to showcase the quality of materials, components, and parts that go into every Twin Vee boat, we place emphasis on crafting an online experience where customers can easily “build and Price” the boat that meets their needs and fits their budget.

 

Twin Vee’s Electra Power Sports Electric Division.

 

Our initiative into sustainable marine technologies and products includes the design and development of a new line of Twin Vee boats, to be named Twin Vee Electric, or “TVE”, that are being specifically designed to be lighter and engineered for use with electric propulsion systems. The TVE model line is being designed to include newly designed 18-foot and 22-foot Baycats that will be powered with a single electric outboard motor, a newly designed 26 foot Baycat that will be powered with twin electric outboard motors and our 24 foot center console Oceancat that will be powered with dual inboard/outboard electric motors. In addition, under this new Electra Power Sports Electric Division, we intend to introduce a fully electric outboard propulsion solution for the marine industry that would be an alternative to traditional gas and diesel fuel powered internal combustion engines that run on gaseous fuel and pollute our lakes, waterways and oceans. We envision significant inroads with boat manufacturers to retrofit their various hull configurations, replacing traditional gas and diesel fuel powered compartments with battery packs and that existing boat owners could also retrofit their existing gas and diesel fuel powered boats with Electra’s outboard motors and battery packs. We believe that immediate benefits can be realized for the personal watercraft industry, related to reducing noise, greenhouse gasses, and other pollutants from gas and diesel fuel powered engines.

 

Our team is designing a concept outboard system with patent pending features. The next primary goal is to prototype and build a 150-horsepower sized outboard with the necessary battery pack and equipment needed for full operation. Currently, we are working towards building a working prototype so that we may get it in the water as soon as possible for testing. The main goal of the prototype is to demonstrate proper motor sizing, overall motor structure integrity, electronic steering function, as well as battery sizing verification and charging system validation. Once that stage is complete, we will then be able to take what we’ve learned from our testing and build upon our prototype with the goal of producing a marketable pilot production run.

 

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Planned Waterfront Design and Testing Center. We are seeking to locate a waterfront location to retrofit or build a technical center for the Electra Power Sports Electric Division, to be known as the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center, in or near Fort Pierce, Florida. We believe a direct water access would allow us to more efficiently develop, test, and refine our electric and carbon-neutral propulsion products as we move from prototyping, to testing to manufacturing.. We are working with real estate agents and local contacts to locate a property that has direct water access to the Intracoastal waterways and the Fort Pierce inlet. The access to the waterways and ocean would allow for immense time savings when testing new motors and end-to-end propulsion systems. Currently, our headquarters are located inland and necessitates coordination and logistics to arrange a single test run on the water. With access to the Indian River and beyond, Electra should have the capability to test its products on various vessels whenever required. It is anticipated that the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center will be our central location where boat manufacturers, dealers, and customers can visit to see the products we have in development and experience how they operate first-hand. Additionally, because of the convenience of having direct access to the water and deep water slips, our partners could even bring their boats to the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center for testing.

 

Once it is fully operational, we expect that the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center will employ 10 to 18 people in the first year to help maintain the property and work on research and development and testing. We also can bring in more assistance to the Electra Power Sports- EV Innovation & Testing Center from our staff at the Twin Vee manufacturing plant in Ft. Pierce when the workload requires it. Over the next several years, we expect that Electra will add additional employees every year as the Innovation & Testing Center’s operation grows.

 

We believe that the world’s waterways are just as important as the air we breathe from the perspective of climate change, that electric propulsion systems are the future for the marine industry and have established Electra to do its part.

 

Twin Vee 240 E

 

The “Twin Vee 240 E” is being designed as a fully electric version of our popular 24-foot center console PowerCat. The Twin Vee 240 E will be our first boat built using a fully electric I/O proprietary powertrain system that will combine an advanced battery pack, converter, high-efficiency motor, and proprietary union assembly between the transmission, electric motor design, and control software. The fully electric propulsion system is being designed and developed on our existing 240 PowerCat platform to utilize our proprietary catamaran hull running surface that produces the least amount of drag. As a result, the hull is expected to extend the range and performance of the boat by increasing the efficiency of every Kilowatt (KW) available.

 

The Twin Vee 240 E will utilize a proprietary propulsion system, including the UQM PowerPhase Pro DT e-drive system motors, HE lithium-ion powered batteries, and Mercury Bravo 3 outdrives. The UQM e-drive system is a state-of-the-art compact direct drive solution that allows for optimized packaging and increased payload capacity due to significant weight savings. This drive train’s reduced size and mass are due to the advanced UQM motor and control technology, coupled with the torque multiplying function of the single-speed gearbox. The Twin Vee 240 E will use HE Batteries. The HE battery series is based on a high energy density battery cell, a lighter, more potent energy cell making it ideal for marine use.

 

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Electra Pro Outboard Motors – High Performance Electric Outboard Propulsion System

 

We recognize a market opportunity to introduce an electric outboard solution that can fit onto any type of hull configuration. Over the past twelve months, we have invested time and resources into building an electric inboard prototype vessel. The Electra Pro Electric Outboard Propulsion is being developed using an electric outboard technology designed to reduce boat emissions in the industry. The vision for our team is to build and deploy electric outboard systems for recreational and sport vessels around the world. We believe that immediate benefits can be realized from use of our electric outboard systems once designed for the personal watercraft industry, related to reducing noise, greenhouse gasses, and other pollutants from gas and diesel fuel powered engines. The electric outboard systems are being designed in order to ensure ease of manufacturing and assembly and use of existing parts as appropriate.

 

We envision significant inroads with many boat manufacturers to retrofit various hull configurations, simply replacing traditional gas and diesel fuel powered fuel compartments with battery packs. Furthermore, existing boat owners should be able to retrofit their existing gas and diesel fuel powered boats with Electra’s product offerings.

 

We contemplate strategic relationships to occur with companies that are in related service fields providing hull retrofitting, engine system sales, contract manufacturers and possibly others regionally as sales increase.

 

Figure 1 illustrates a preliminary concept outboard system with patent pending features.

 

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Suppliers

 

We purchase a number of our product parts and components from third-party suppliers, including the fiberglass we use to manufacture the fiberglass parts of our boats, hydrocarbon feedstocks and steel, as well as product parts and components, such as engines and electronic controls, through a sales order process. The most significant component used in manufacturing our boats, based on cost, are engines. We maintain a strong and long-standing relationship with our sole supplier of engines, Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

 

We do not maintain long-term contracts with preferred suppliers, but instead rely on informal arrangements and off-the-shelf purchases. We have not experienced any material shortages in any of our product parts, or components, but as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic some of our third-party suppliers have experienced delays in delivering our product parts and components in a timely manner and fluctuations in price for these supplies is a possibility if raw material pricing increases. Temporary shortages, when they do occur, usually involve manufacturers of these products adjusting model mix, introducing new product lines, or limiting production in response to an industry-wide reduction in boat demand, or, as recently experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, in finding persons able to deliver the parts and components in a timely manner.

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Twin Vee’s Hull Shape

 

Twin Vee boats are designed for a dry and smooth ride. As a Twin Vee moves through the water, the boat hull has lifting strakes on the side of each hull. Lifting strakes are known to produce lift at the bow of a boat by displacing water, allowing the boat to, in essence, glide above the water rather than lumber through it. Twin Vee’s lifting strakes work to not only create lift, but also to make the ride smoother. The forward motion of a catamaran boat lifts water up towards the top of the tunnel while pushing the water inward to form two counter-flowing vortexes. As these vortexes are being formed, the Twin Vee hull design aerates these vortexes with small air bubbles, which are then compressed at an increasing rate as the vortexes move down the tunnel. It is the kinetic energy stored in these compressed air bubbles, which creates \ a smooth and stable ride. As speed increases, the kinetic energy increases at a non-linear rate as more and more air is induced into the increasingly faster flowing vortexes. The trailing surfaces the Twin Vee hulls are specifically designed to facilitate propulsion efficiency by discharging the kinetic energy and air bubbles from the counter-flowing vortexes upon exiting astern, thus providing the propellers with a steady flow of super clean and highly ordered water.

 

This fact, combined with a catamaran’s soft ride, results in Twin Vee’s renowned efficiency and smooth, seaworthy safety. At speed, the Twin Vee’s displacement hull slices through the water, traveling with the shape of the seas rather than flying over them and experiencing reentry shock. This results in a stable and smooth ride. The following are some benefits of the catamaran, or Twin Vee, hull shape.

 

Power Catamaran Hull Benefits

 

Catamaran stability. Catamarans have parallel hulls on the outer edges of the boat rather than in the middle, providing superior stability. Twin Vee hulls travel with the wave shapes because the buoyancy is to the outside, resisting the snap roll pendulum motion of deep vee monohulls. A Twin Vee wider footprint negates the effects of rolling seas, making them less likely to capsize and reduce seasickness.

 

Shallow draft for travelling in “skinny” waters. The weight of the boat is distributed to two hulls for a shallower draft. The shallow draft of the Twin Vee design provides access to areas that conventional hulls cannot reach. With a Twin Vee, you can enjoy the beach and not have to wade in the water to get there.

 

More usable deck space. The relatively rectangular design of the Twin Vee expanded deck area allows for more usable deck space than monohulls. Twin Vee boats are wider in the bows providing more open area in open models and bigger berths in cabins. Lounge in the front of a Twin Vee dual console and then jump into a similar-sized monohull.

 

Single engine get home capability. Twin Vee catamaran hulls do not need planning speed power to travel rapidly on a single engine. Minimum bow rise for greater visibility. A Twin Vee deck is parallel to the water at all speeds allowing you to maintain your line of sight and giving you greater fuel efficiency.

 

Docking and maneuverability. With the extra separation between the motors, over most mono hull boats, you can cross-clutch the motors and turn or spin the boat up to its own length.

 

Maintains a plane at lower speed for fuel efficiency. The catamaran hull can maintain a plane at lower speeds and catamaran boats create less drag in turn offering better fuel efficiency and a more economical boat to maintain.

 

Fish one side of a Twin Vee. Enjoy fishing without the extreme listing of a monohull.

 

Our Market Opportunity

 

Our core market corresponds most directly to the inboard/outboard, twin hull, catamaran and open fisherman category, which we refer to as the sport powerboat category. We believe our addressable market also includes similar and adjacent powerboat categories identified by the NMMA, including center console boats, outboard boats, and all open sport fishing boats. US sales of boats, marine products, and services are estimated to total $47 billion in 2020, up nine percent from 2019. Retail unit sales of new powerboats specifically increased last year by an estimated 12 percent compared to 2019. As a result, we believe the total annual addressable market for our products in the U.S. alone is greater than $4.4 billion. We believe we are well-positioned to benefit from several trends underway in our addressable market, including:

 

Sport boats are taking greater share of the overall fiberglass powerboat category;

 

Dealer inventory positions have improved across the industry;

 

Post COVID-19 recreational boating has reached its highest level of participation since 1990 when participation data was first collected;

 

Inventory of two-to-five year old pre-owned boats has become limited, driving consumers to purchase new boats;

 

Ease-of-use and performance innovations have accelerated product cycles driving consumer demand for new products; and

 

Higher consumer confidence influenced by improving macroeconomic conditions, including increased home values, lower oil prices, and greater workforce participation has helped to drive increased consumer demand for powerboats.

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Industry Overview

 

In North America, 100 million people go boating every year, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, with 11.9 million recreational vessels registered with the U.S. Coast Guard in 2019. The worldwide recreational boating market size is set to surpass $63 billion by 2026, according to a research report by Global Market Insights, Inc. Within the boating market, there is an outboard motor market and an electric boat market. Our products fall into each of those categories, and if produced, our electric powertrains will be used in boats in both those markets.

 

Outboard Motor Market

 

An outboard motor is a propulsion system for boats, consisting of a self-contained unit that includes engine, gearbox and propeller or jet drive, designed to be affixed to the outside of the boat. As well as providing propulsion, outboards provide steering control, as they are designed to pivot over their mountings and thus control the direction of thrust. Outboard motors tend to be found on smaller watercraft as it is more efficient for larger boats to have an inboard system. Although outboard engines powered by fossil fuels have traditionally dominated this market and continue to do so, electric outboard motors are a relatively new phenomenon that have been growing in step with the growth in the electric boat market. The boats that we sell and manufacture all have outboard motors.

 

According to the NMMA, sales of outboard engines in the United States (which includes outboard motors) increased to a twenty-year high of 329,500 units representing sales market of US $3.4 billion in 2020. Consumer demand for higher-performance engines continued to trend upward in 2020, with double digit gains in sales for engines with 200 and greater horsepower. Engines with over 200 horsepower accounted for a rise in 17.6% compared to 2019, amounting to over 89,000 units sold. Overall, the average horsepower of all outboard engines sold in 2020 reached 126.3 hp, up 48% from the average in 2010 of 85.1 horsepower according to the NMMA.

 

Although many recreational boats can be powered by outboard or inboard motors, many consumers prefer outboard motors. Among the reasons for their preference are that, unlike inboard motors, outboard motors can be easily removed for storage or repairs, they provide more room in the boat as they are attached to the transom outside of the boat, they tend to have a shallower draft and they can be more easily replaced in the event the motor no longer works or a desire to upgrade to a higher horsepower.

 

Electric Boat Market

 

Although electric boats have been available for over 100 years, interest in them was minimal until the 1990s when the first studies were conducted in the United States following the suspicion that motorboats contaminate aquatic environments significantly through loss of gas and lubrication oil. According to Andre Mele, recreational boats pollute as much as cars and trucks in the United States. In the early 2000’s, 8 million speedboats in the United States released 15 times more pollutants annually into the environment than the oil spill produced by the oil tanker Exxon Valdez in 1989. The sinking of this tanker in Alaska had released 11 million U.S. gallons of hydrocarbons into the environment. After conversion, this means that each boat releases an average of 78 L of hydrocarbons into aquatic environments each year. If that average is still current, we estimate that in 2019 oil losses in the environment via motorboats equaled 150,000 tons of hydrocarbon scaly leaks in Canada (based on 2 million vessels), 750,000 tons of hydrocarbon scaly leaks in the United States (based on 10 million vessels) and 450,000 tons of hydrocarbon scaly leaks in Europe (based on 6 million vessels).

 

This explains why some lakes and bodies of water have recently banned motorboats. The total elimination of gas immediately eliminates a very large source of marine pollution, with immediate results: possibility of beaches, swimming and reduction of BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) and DCO (direct chemical oxidation) of ambient water. Specifically, hydrocarbons, similar to the dirt that clings to the walls of a bathtub, contaminate the shores and banks of lakes, rivers and bodies of water, where the development of many living organisms takes place. The ecosystem is then modified with the scarcity or disappearance of certain species.

 

In an effort to tackle air pollution, cities around the world are beginning to ban all gas and diesel fuel powered boats from the center of the city. One of the first cities to implement this change is Amsterdam, Netherlands. This movement to electrically powered boats has been implemented in Venice, where the city has restricted the movement of gas and diesel fuel powered boats, while exempting electrically powered boats.

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Interest in electric boats has also been driven by decreases in their cost largely as a result of a decrease in the price of the batteries used to power them. The average price per kilowatt hour of a lithium-ion battery fell from approximately $1,200 in 2010 to below $100 in 2020.

 

The electric boat market is competitive with much of that competition of late focusing on launching new E-boats with more extended range and higher speed than currently available boats. The global electric boat market in 2019 was worth approximately $8.31 billion, according to BlueWeave Consulting, which expects that market to reach $18 billion by 2026, a cumulative annual growth rate of 11.7%. In its August 2020 report, BlueWeave Consulting predicts that the growth in the electric boat market will be caused by:

 

Increasing recreational activities
Improved standard of living
Rising disposable income in developed nations
A rise in boat-leasing
The use of boats as a means of transportation
Increasing concerns related to carbon emissions and reducing sulfur or carbon content in the fuels used by marine or recreational boats
The advanced technology of motors & batteries providing a more economical and fuel-efficient boat
Increasing investments in electric boats to meet rising demand in developed countries

 

The electric boat market is segmented into two categories, hybrid, and pure electric boats. The hybrid segment is expected to record the highest CAGR and maintain its market share from now until 2026. However, Lithium-ion battery-based boats dominate the pure electric boat market as the battery offers advantages of fuel-efficiency, fast charging, longer functional life, and higher load capacity. It is anticipated to record substantial growth during the next five years as well.

 

On the basis of passenger capacity, a February 2020 report by Research and Markets states that electric boats with a capacity of fewer than ten passengers captured the highest share of the global electric boat market in 2018. Additionally, boats with a capacity of fewer than ten passengers are the fastest-growing segment due to increased demand for small boats for recreational purposes from the rich class of the U.S., Canada, and Western European countries.

 

Patents and Licenses

 

We do not currently have any patents that have been issued and have one patent application pending related to our electric outboard solution. We do not rely on any licenses from third parties at this time. There can be no assurance that the pending patent will be issued and even if issued that it will protect our intellectual property rights.

 

Our success depends, at least in part, on our ability to protect our core technology and intellectual property. To accomplish this, we intend to rely on a combination of trade secrets, including know-how, employee and third-party non-disclosure agreements, copyright laws, trademarks and other contractual rights to establish and protect our proprietary rights in our technology.

 

Insurance and Product Warranties

 

We carry various insurance policies, including policies to cover general products liability, workers’ compensation and other casualty and property risks, to protect against certain risks of loss consistent with the exposures associated with the nature and scope of our operations. Our policies are generally based on our safety record as well as market trends in the insurance industry and are subject to certain deductibles, limits and policy terms and conditions.

 

We provide limited product warranties, generally covering periods of ten years for the hull and the motors are under warranty by their manufacturer.

 

In addition, we provide a three-year limited fiberglass small parts warranty on some small fiberglass parts and components, such as consoles. Gelcoat is covered up to one year. Additionally, fiberglass lids, plastic lids, electrical panels, bilge pumps, aerator pumps or other electrical devices (excluding stereos, depth finders, radar, chart plotters except for installation if installed by Twin Vee Powercats, Inc.), steering systems, electrical panels, and pumps are covered under a one-year basic limited systems warranty. Some materials, components or parts of the boat that are not covered by our limited product warranties are separately warranted by their manufacturers or suppliers. These other warranties include warranties covering engines purchased from suppliers and other components.

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Our standard warranties require us or our dealers to repair or replace defective products during such warranty periods at no cost to the consumer. During the warranty period, we reimburse dealers for all or a portion of the cost of repair or replacement performed by the dealers on the products (mainly composed of parts or accessories provided by us and labor costs incurred by dealers). Although we employ quality control procedures, sometimes a product is distributed that needs repair or replacement. The repair and replacement costs we could incur in connection with a recall could adversely affect our business. In addition, product recalls could harm our reputation and cause us to lose customers, particularly if recalls cause consumers to question the safety or reliability of our products. During the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, we paid $63,606 and $59,668 for product warranty repairs.

 

Competition

 

The powerboat industry, including the performance sport boat category, is highly competitive for consumers and dealers. Competition affects our ability to succeed in the markets we currently serve and new markets that we may enter in the future. We compete with several large manufacturers that may have greater financial, marketing and other resources than we do. We compete with large manufacturers who are represented by dealers in the markets in which we now operate and into which we plan to expand. We also compete with a wide variety of small, independent manufacturers. Competition in our industry is based primarily on brand name, price and product performance. For more information, see “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—Our industry is characterized by intense competition, which affects our sales and profits.”

 

We face intense competition from other performance sport boat manufacturers in attracting and retaining dealers and customers, affecting our ability to attract or retain relationships with qualified and successful dealers and consumers looking to purchase boats.

 

We also compete with other leisure activities. Our boats are not necessities and in times of economic hardship, consumers may cease purchasing non-essential items. Luxury items may not be used for recreational and sport purposes, and demand for our boats may be adversely affected by competition from other activities that occupy consumers’ leisure time and by changes in consumer life style, usage pattern or taste.

 

Environmental, Safety and Regulatory Matters

 

Certain materials used in our manufacturing, including the resins used in production of our boats, are toxic, flammable, corrosive or reactive and are classified by the federal and state governments as “hazardous materials.” Control of these substances is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, and state pollution control agencies. The United States Clean Air Act (the “CAA”) and corresponding state and provincial rules regulate emissions of air pollutants. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, standards limit the amount of emissions to which an employee may be exposed without the need for respiratory protection or upgraded plant ventilation. Our facilities are regularly inspected by OSHA and by state and local inspection agencies and departments. We believe that our facility complies in all material aspects with these regulations. Although capital expenditures related to compliance with environmental laws are expected to increase, we do not currently anticipate any material expenditure will be required to continue to comply with existing environmental or safety regulations in connection with our existing manufacturing facilities.

 

Powerboats sold in the United States must be manufactured to meet the standards of certification required by the United States Coast Guard. In addition, boats manufactured for sale in the European Community must be certified to meet the European Community’s imported manufactured products standards. These certifications specify standards for the design and construction of powerboats. We believe that all of our boats meet these standards. In addition, safety of recreational boats is subject to federal regulation under the Boat Safety Act of 1971, which requires boat manufacturers to recall products for replacement of parts or components that have demonstrated defects affecting safety. We have instituted recalls for defective component parts produced by certain of our third-party suppliers. None of the recalls has had a material adverse effect on our company.

 

In addition to the regulation of our manufacturing operations, the EPA has adopted regulations stipulating that many marine propulsion engines meet certain air emission standards. The engines used in our products, all of which are manufactured by third parties, are warranted by the manufacturers to be in compliance with the EPA’s emission standards. Furthermore, the engines used in our products must comply with the applicable emission standards under the CEPA and corresponding provincial legislation. The additional cost of complying with these regulations has increased our cost to purchase the engines and, accordingly, has increased the cost to manufacture our products.

 

If we are not able to pass these additional costs along to our customers, it may have a negative impact on our business and financial condition.

 

Employees/Human Capital

 

We believe we maintain excellent relations with our employees. As of December 31, 2020, we employed 85 people as full time employees, all of whom work at our Fort Pierce facility. None of our employees are represented by a labor union and, since our founding in 1982, we have never experienced a labor-related work stoppage.

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Our Dealer Network

 

We primarily sell our boats through a network of 10 independent dealers in 14 locations across North America and the Caribbean (one in the Bahamas and Cayman Islands). We have dealerships in Crystal River, Eastpoint, Islandmorada, Palm Bay, Palm Harbor, Pompano Beach and Stuart, Florida. We also have dealerships in Gulf Shores, Alabama, Norwalk, Connecticut, Grasonville, Maryland, Tuckerton New Jersey, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina and Freeport, Texas. We are always seeking to recruit and establish new dealers and distributors domestically and are striving to develop international distribution.

 

We establish performance criteria that our dealers must meet in order to be part of our network to ensure our dealer network remains strong , which include minimum annual purchase orders. As a member of our network, dealers in North America may qualify for floor plan financing programs, rebates, seasonal discounts, promotional co-op payments and other allowances. We expect this will strengthen our dealers ability to sell our products.

 

Approximately 30% of our dealer locations have been with us, for over ten years. For the year ended December 31, 2020, our top five dealers on a consolidated basis accounted for approximately 33% of our total units sold and no one dealer accounted for in excess of ten percent of the units sold.

 

We consistently review our distribution network to identify opportunities to expand our geographic footprint and improve our coverage of the market. We believe that our diverse product offering and strong market position in each region of the United States helped us capitalize on growth opportunities as our industry recovered from the economic downturn. We have the ability to opportunistically add new dealers and new dealer locations to previously underserved markets and use data and performance metrics to monitor dealer performance. We believe our outstanding dealer network allows us to distribute our products more efficiently than our smaller competitors.

 

We do not have written agreements with our dealers. Prior to the beginning of each year, we establish a minimum number of units that each dealer must acquire based upon indications of interest from the dealers. Payment for the units is made by the dealer or a third party lender once the boat is manufactured and delivered to the dealer. Dealers are not contractually obligated to purchase any boats. Although to date most dealers have purchased boats for which they have provided indications of interest, we could experience excess inventory and costs if a dealer should choose not to purchase a boat for which it has provided an indication of interest.

 

Floor Plan Financing

 

Our North American dealers often purchase boats through floor plan financing programs with third-party floor plan financing providers. During the year ended December 31, 2020, all of our North American shipments were made pursuant to floor plan financing programs through which our dealers participate. These programs allow dealers across our brands to establish lines of credit with third-party lenders to purchase inventory. Under these programs, a dealer draws on the floor plan facility upon the purchase of our boats and the lender pays the invoice price of the boats. As is typical in our industry, we have entered into repurchase agreements with certain floor plan financing providers to our dealers. Under the terms of these arrangements, in the event a lender repossesses a boat from a dealer that has defaulted on its floor financing arrangement and is able to deliver the repossessed boat to us, we are obligated to repurchase the boat from the lender. Our obligation to repurchase such repossessed products for the unpaid balance of our original invoice price for the boat is subject to reduction or limitation based on the age and condition of the boat at the time of repurchase, and in certain cases by an aggregate cap on repurchase obligations associated with a particular floor financing program.

 

Our exposure under repurchase agreements with third-party lenders is mitigated by our ability to reposition inventory with a new dealer in the event that a repurchase event occurs. The primary cost to us of a repurchase event is any margin loss on the resale of a repurchased unit. To date, we have not been required to repurchase any boats under repurchase agreements.

 

SBA Loan

On April 22, 2020, we received, in coordination with our parent, Twinvee Powercats, Inc., an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) in the amount of $499,900. The loan in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The loan is a 30-year loan with an interest rate of 3.75%, monthly payments of $2,437 to begin April 22, 2021, under the EIDL program, which is administered through the Small Business Administration (“SBA”). Under the guidelines of the EIDL, the maximum term is 30 years; however, terms are determined on a case-by-case basis based on each borrower’s ability to repay and carry an interest rate of 3.75%. The EIDL loan may be prepaid by us at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties. The proceeds from this loan must be used solely as working capital to alleviate economic injury caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of the EIDL loan, in coordination with our parent, Twinvee Powercats, Inc., we granted the SBA a continuing security interest in and to any and all collateral to secure our obligations to the SBA under the EIDL loan. The collateral includes substantially all of our tangible and intangible personal property. The EDIL loan is also personally guaranteed by our our Chief Executive Officer, President and Director, Joseph Visconti.

 

Facilities

Our corporate headquarters are located in 3101 US Highway 1, Fort Pierce, Florida, 34982. We lease the facility from Visconti Holdings, LLC, (“Visconti Holdings”) an entity owned and controlled by our Chief Executive Officer, President and Director, Joseph Visconti pursuant to a lease agreement (the “Lease Agreement”), dated January 1, 2020, by and among the Company, Visconti Holdings, LLC and Twin Vee Powercats, Inc., our parent company. The Lease Agreement currently has a 5-year term, with an option to renew for an additional 5-year term. We currently pay Visconti Holdings $26,500 per month plus applicable sales and use tax, which is currently 7% in St. Lucie County. We believe our headquarters is adequate for our current operations and needs. We are seeking, however, to locate a waterfront location to build and design a technical center for our Electra Power Sports Electric Division in Fort Pierce, Florida. We believe the waterfront or direct water access would allow us to more efficiently develop, test, and refine our electric and carbon-neutral propulsion products.

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Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, we may become involved in litigation or other legal proceedings. We are not currently a party to any material litigation or legal proceedings. Regardless of outcome, litigation can have an adverse impact on us because of defense and settlement costs, diversion of management resources and other factors.

 

One of the companies represented by Mr. Visconti and Mr. Visconti individually, among others, were named defendants in a bankruptcy adversary petition under Chapter 7, filed on March 26, 2012 before the U.S. Bankruptcy Court Southern District of Florida (West Palm Beach). The case was terminated by the court on June 30, 2015.

 

MANAGEMENT

 

Executive Officers and Directors

 

The following table sets forth the names, ages and positions of our executive officers and directors as of [              ], 2021:

 

Name   Age   Position
Executive Officers:        
Joseph C. Visconti   56   Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
Preston Yarborough   42   Vice President and Director
Donna Barnett   61   Chief Financial Officer
Dan Norton   45   Chief Engineer
         
Non-Employee Directors:        
Pete Melvin (1) (2) (3)   59   Director
Neil Ross (1) (2)(3)(6)   59   Director
Steven Shallcross (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)   59   Director

 

 

(1) Member of the audit committee
(2) Member of the compensation committee
(3) Member of the corporate governance and nominating committee
(4) Chair of audit committee
(5) Chair of compensation committee
(6) Chair of corporate governance and nominating committee

 

Executive Officers

 

Joseph Visconti has been our Chief Executive Officer, President and Director since 2015. With over 25 years of executive level operational and financial experience, Mr. Visconti was the founder, CEO and President of two previous companies, the first company was a regional Investment Bank that he built to over 400 employees and sold in 2000. The second company was ValueRich, a financial media company that was taken public on the American Stock Exchange in 2007. ValueRich transitioned from media related business to Twin Vee PowerCats, Inc. in 2015. Mr. Visconti has experience building teams of professionals with a focus on product development and bringing those products to market. Mr. Visconti received his Associate’s degree from Lynn University in 1984. We believe that Mr. Visconti’s experience leading us and our parent company and his operational and financial experience makes him well qualified to be a director of the Company. 

 

Preston Yarborough has been our Vice President since our inception, our Director since August 2010 and has acted as the Director of Product Development of our parent company since August 2010. We believe Mr. Yarborough’s history and experience developing products and managing the development of new products with us and our parent company will make him a valuable member of our board and management.

 

Donna Marie Barnett has been our Chief Financial Officer since January 1, 2021 and prior to her appointment was serving as our Controller since January 2018. From October 2014 through May 2017, she was serving as the Clerk and Treasurer for the Village of Brightwaters in New York and from January to October 2014 as its Trustee. Ms. Barnett received her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Long Island University Graduate School of Business Administration and her Bachelor of Arts degree from Long Island University – CW Post Center, where she majored in International Business.

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Dan Norton has been our Chief Engineer since February 1, 2021. Mr. Norton has spent over 20 years working in the technical design engineering arena for companies including Caterpillar Inc., Gerber Technology, and ATI Industrial Automation, in various project management and engineering development positions. He currently holds over 20 patents related to innovative electromechanical solutions to automation, boat docking, and work piece clamping. He is also the inventor of the NLS (Nautical Landing System) technology and has been developing the Smartlander positive restraint system for use in heavy duty marine applications. Mr. Norton earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1998, from Northeastern University. We believe Mr. Norton’s wealth of knowledge and hands on experience in automation, robotics and robotics development make him a valuable member of our management team.

 

Independent Directors

 

Pete Melvin has been a member of our Board of Directors since April 8, 2021. Mr. Melvin, a multiple class world and national sailboat champion, is an innovative designer of yachts and aircrafts. He founded Morrelli & Melvin in 1992, a design and engineering company specializing in sailboats and yachts and has served as its Chief Executive Officer since its inception. Since October 2019, he has served as the President of Pro Coach Boats LLC, a company he founded that manufacturer and sells boats, and since May 2019, he has served as the Chief Technology Officer of Argo Rocket Marine LLC, a provider of space industry marine services and products. Mr. Melvin received his degree in Aerospace Engineering from Boston University. His expertise in designing boats and aircraft and managing all aspects of a boat company, as well as his passion for boats and sailing make Mr. Melvin an invaluable member of our Board.

 

Neil Ross has been a member of our Board of Directors since April 8 2021. He has over 30 years of experience in launching products and companies and promoting and growing brands. He has served as the Chief Executive Officer of James Ross Advertising since founding it in February 2003. Most notably, Neil has extensive marine experience partnering with brands like Galati Yachts Sales, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales, Allied Marine, Bertram Yachts, Twin Vee, Jupiter Marine and Sealine to name a few. Mr. Ross received his Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University. We believe Mr. Ross’ experience in the yacht and boating industry as well as his expertise in brand awareness and growth makes him well qualified to be a director of the Company.

 

Steven Shallcross has been a member of our Board of Directors since April 8, 2021. Mr. Shallcross has also served as a Board member of Elys Game Technologies, Corp. (NASDAQ: ELYS) an international, vertically integrated commercial-stage company engaged in various aspects of the leisure gaming industry since June 13, 2019, and Synthetic Biologics Inc. (NYSE American: SYN) (“Synthetic Biologics”) since December 6, 2018 and as its Chief Executive Officer, a position he was appointed to on December 6, 2018 wher he currently serves as Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Shallcross was appointed as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Synthetic Biologics on December 5, 2017 and has served as its Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary since June 2015. From May 2013 through May 2015, Mr. Shallcross served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Nuo Therapeutics, Inc. (formerly Cytomedix, Inc.). In January 2016, Nuo Therapeutics, Inc. filed a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware and on April 25, 2016, the Bankruptcy Court entered an order granting approval of Nuo’s plan of reorganization. From July 2012 to May 2013, Mr. Shallcross held the offices of Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Empire Petroleum Partners, LLC, a motor fuel distribution company. From July 2011 to March 2012, Mr. Shallcross was Acting Chief Financial Officer of Senseonics, a privately-held medical device company located in Germantown, MD. From January 2009 to March 2011, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Innocoll AG (formerly privately held Innocoll Holdings, Inc.), a global, commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development and commercialization of collagen-based products. He also served for four years as the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc., leading the company through its successful IPO and follow-on offering and previously served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Middlebrook Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (formerly Advancis Pharmaceutical Corporation). In addition, Mr. Shallcross also served as the Chief Financial Officer of Bering Truck Corporation. He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business, a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Illinois, Chicago, and is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Illinois. We believe that Mr. Shallcross’ operational, financial and international experience, as well as an established track record at leading the financial development and strategy for several publicly traded companies, makes him well qualified to be a director of the Company.

 

Family Relationships

 

No family relationships exist between any director, executive officer or person nominated or chosen to be a director or officer.

 

Board of Directors Composition

 

Our board of directors currently consists of 5 members. After the completion of this offering, the number of directors will be fixed by our board of directors, subject to the terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws. Each of our current directors will continue to serve as a director until the election and qualification of his or her successor, or until his or her earlier death, resignation or removal.

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Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that our board of directors will be divided into three classes with staggered three-year terms. Only one class of directors will be elected at each annual meeting of stockholders, with the other classes continuing for the remainder of their respective three-year terms. Our current directors will be divided among the three classes as follows:

 

the Class I director will be Neil Ross, whose term will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2022;
the Class II directors will be Pete Melvin and Preston Yarborough, and their terms will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2023; and
the Class III directors will be Steven A. Shallcross and Joseph Visconti, and their terms will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2024.

 

At each annual meeting of stockholders, upon the expiration of the term of a class of directors, the successor to each such director in the class will be elected to serve from the time of election and qualification until the third annual meeting following his or her election and until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, in accordance with our amended and restated certificate of incorporation. Any additional directorships resulting from an increase in the number of directors will be distributed among the three classes so that, as nearly as possible, each class will consist of one-third of our directors.

 

This classification of our board of directors may have the effect of delaying or preventing changes in control of our company.

 

In addition, under the terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and our amended and restated bylaws, members of our board of directors may only be removed for cause. This may also have the effect of delaying or preventing changes in control of our company.

 

Director Independence

 

We intend to apply for our common stock to be listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market, or Nasdaq. Under the rules of Nasdaq, independent directors must comprise a majority of a listed company’s board of directors within one year of the completion of its initial public offering. In addition, the rules of Nasdaq require that, subject to specified exceptions, each member of a listed company’s audit, compensation and corporate governance and nominating committees be independent. Audit committee members and compensation committee members must also satisfy the independence criteria set forth in Rule 10A-3 and Rule 10C-1, respectively, under the Exchange Act. Under the rules of Nasdaq, a director will only qualify as an “independent director” if, in the opinion of that company’s board of directors, that person does not have a relationship that would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director.

 

To be considered to be independent for purposes of Rule 10A-3 and under the rules of Nasdaq, a member of an audit committee of a listed company may not, other than in his or her capacity as a member of the audit committee, the board of directors, or any other board of directors committee: (1) accept, directly or indirectly, any consulting, advisory, or other compensatory fee from the listed company or any of its subsidiaries; or (2) be an affiliated person of the listed company or any of its subsidiaries.

 

To be considered independent for purposes of Rule 10C-1 and under the rules of Nasdaq, the board of directors must affirmatively determine that each member of the compensation committee is independent, including a consideration of all factors specifically relevant to determining whether the director has a relationship to the company which is material to that director’s ability to be independent from management in connection with the duties of a compensation committee member, including, but not limited to: (i) the source of compensation of such director, including any consulting, advisory or other compensatory fee paid by the company to such director; and (ii) whether such director is affiliated with the company, a subsidiary of the company or an affiliate of a subsidiary of the company.

 

Our board of directors undertook a review of its composition, the composition of its committees and the independence of our directors and considered whether any director has a material relationship with us that could compromise his or her ability to exercise independent judgment in carrying out his or her responsibilities. Based upon information requested from and provided by each non-employee director concerning his or her background, employment and affiliations, including family relationships, our board of directors has determined that none of Messrs. Ross, Melvin, and Shallcross have relationships that would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director and that each of these directors is “independent” as that term is defined under the rules of Nasdaq and Rule 10A-3 and Rule 10C-1under the Exchange Act.

 

In making these determinations, our board of directors considered the current and prior relationships that each non-employee director has with our company and all other facts and circumstances our board of directors deemed relevant in determining their independence, including the beneficial ownership of our capital stock by each non-employee director, and the transactions involving them described in the section titled “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions.”

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Board of Directors Leadership Structure

 

Our Chief Executive Officer serves as our Chairman of the Board. Our Board does not have a lead independent director. Our Board has determined its leadership structure is appropriate and effective given our stage of development.

 

Board of Directors Committees

 

Upon completion of this offering our board of directors will have an audit committee, a compensation committee and a corporate governance and nominating committee, each of which will have the composition and the responsibilities described below.

 

Audit Committee

 

Upon completion of this offering the members of our audit committee will consist of Pete Melvin, Neil Ross and Steven A. Shallcross. Mr. Shallcross will be the chair of our audit committee. All of the members of the audit committee will be independent, as that term is defined under the rules of Nasdaq. The primary purpose of the audit committee is to oversee the quality and integrity of our accounting and financial reporting processes and the audit of our financial statements. Specifically, the audit committee will: 

 

select and hire the independent registered public accounting firm to audit our financial statements;
help to ensure the independence and performance of the independent registered public accounting firm;
approve audit and non-audit services and fees;
review financial statements and discuss with management and the independent registered public accounting firm our annual audited and quarterly financial statements, the results of the independent audit and the quarterly reviews and the reports and certifications regarding internal controls over financial reporting and disclosure controls;
prepare the audit committee report that the SEC requires to be included in our annual proxy statement;
review reports and communications from the independent registered public accounting firm;
review the adequacy and effectiveness of our internal controls and disclosure controls and procedure;
review our policies on risk assessment and risk management;
review related party transactions; and
establish and oversee procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of accounting related complaints and the confidential submission by our employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters.

 

Our audit committee will operate under a written charter, to be effective prior to the completion of this offering, which will satisfy the applicable rules of the SEC and the listing standards of Nasdaq.

 

Compensation Committee

 

Upon completion of this offering the members of our compensation committee will consist of Pete Melvin, Neil Ross and Steven A. Shallcross. Mr. Shallcross will be the chair of our compensation committee. All of the members of our compensation committee will be independent, as that term is defined under the rules of Nasdaq. Our compensation committee oversees our compensation policies, plans and benefits programs. The compensation committee will also:

 

oversee our overall compensation philosophy and compensation policies, plans and benefit programs;
review and recommend to our board of directors for approval compensation for our executive officers and directors;
prepare the compensation committee report that the SEC would require to be included in our annual proxy statement if we were no longer deemed to be an emerging growth company or a smaller reporting company; and
administer our equity compensation plans.

 

Our compensation committee will operate under a written charter, to be effective prior to the completion of this offering, which will satisfy the applicable rules of the SEC and the listing standards of Nasdaq.

 

Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee

 

Upon completion of this offering the members of our corporate governance and nominating committee will consist of Neil Ross and Steven A. Shallcross. Neil Ross will be the chair of our corporate governance and nominating committee. All will be independent, as that term is defined under the rules of Nasdaq. Our corporate governance and nominating committee oversees and assists our board of directors in reviewing and recommending nominees for election as directors. Specifically, the corporate governance and nominating committee will:

 

identify, evaluate and make recommendations to our board of directors regarding nominees for election to our board of directors and its committees;
consider and make recommendations to our board of directors regarding the composition of our board of directors and its committees;
review developments in corporate governance practices;
evaluate the adequacy of our corporate governance practices and reporting; and
evaluate the performance of our board of directors and of individual directors.

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Our corporate governance and nominating committee will operate under a written charter, to be effective prior to the completion of this offering, which will satisfy the applicable rules of the SEC and the listing standards of Nasdaq.

 

Director Compensation

 

To date, our directors have not received any compensation for their service as directors. Commencing after this offering, directors who are not employees will receive compensation for their service as directors, including service as members of each committee on which they serve.

 

Cash Compensation

 

All non-employee directors will be entitled to receive the following cash compensation for their services following the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part:

 

$5,000 per year for service as a board member;
$12,000 per year additionally for service as chair of the audit committee;
$5,000 per year additionally for service as member of the audit committee (excluding committee chair);
$10,000 per year additionally for service as chair of the compensation committee;
$4,000 per year additionally for service as member of the compensation committee (excluding committee chair);
$5,000 per year additionally for service as chair of the corporate governance and nominating committee;
$3,000 per year additionally for service as member of the corporate governance and nominating committee (excluding committee chair);]

 

All cash payments to non-employee directors who served in the relevant capacity at any point during the immediately preceding prior fiscal quarter will be paid quarterly in arrears. A non-employee director who served in the relevant capacity during only a portion of the prior fiscal quarter will receive a pro-rated payment of the quarterly payment of the applicable cash retainer.

 

Equity Compensation

 

Effective upon the initial public offering, each non-employee director will receive an initial grant of non-qualified stock options with a grant date fair value of $30,000, which options will vest one year after the grant date, subject to the grantee’s continued service through that date. The Company intends to make annual equity grants to non-employee directors coincident with each annual meeting of stockholders.

 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Inside Participation

 

None of the members of our compensation committee are or have been an officer or employee of our company. None of our executive officers currently serve, or in the past fiscal year has served, on the board of directors or compensation committee (or other board of directors’ committee performing equivalent functions) of any entity that has one or more executive officers serving on such board of directors or compensation committee, other than our parent company.

 

Risk Oversight

 

In its governance role, and particularly in exercising its duty of care and diligence, the board of directors is responsible for ensuring that appropriate risk management policies and procedures are in place to protect the company’s assets and business. Our board of directors has broad and ultimate oversight responsibility for our risk management processes and programs and executive management is responsible for the day-to-day evaluation and management of risks to the Company.

 

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

 

We have adopted a written code of business conduct and ethics that applies to our directors, officers and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions. Following the completion of this offering, the code of business conduct and ethics will be available on our website at www.twinvee.com. We intend to disclose future amendments to such code, or any waivers of its requirements, applicable to any principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller or persons performing similar functions or our directors on our website identified above. The inclusion of our website address in this prospectus does not include or incorporate by reference the information on our website into this prospectus. We will provide any person, without charge, upon request, a copy of our code of conduct and ethics. Such requests should be made in writing to the attention of Glenn Sonoda, Secretary, Twin Vee PowerCats Co., 3101 US-1 Fort Pierce, Florida 34982.

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Limitation of Liability and Indemnification

 

Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws provides that we will indemnify our directors and officers, and may indemnify our employees and other agents, to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. Delaware law prohibits our amended and restated certificate of incorporation from limiting the liability of our directors for the following:

 

any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to us or to our stockholders;
acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law;
unlawful payment of dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions; and
any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.

 

If Delaware law is amended to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of a director, then the liability of our directors will be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law, as so amended. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation does not eliminate a director’s duty of care and, in appropriate circumstances, equitable remedies, such as injunctive or other forms of non-monetary relief, remain available under Delaware law. This provision also does not affect a director’s responsibilities under any other laws, such as the federal securities laws or other state or federal laws. Under our amended and restated bylaws, we will also be empowered to purchase insurance on behalf of any person whom we are required or permitted to indemnify.

 

In the case of an action or proceeding by or in the right of our company or any of our subsidiaries, no indemnification will be provided for any claim where a court determines that the indemnified party is prohibited from receiving indemnification. We believe that these charter and bylaw provisions are necessary to attract and retain qualified persons as directors and officers.

 

The limitation of liability and indemnification provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws may discourage stockholders from bringing a lawsuit against directors for breach of their fiduciary duties. They may also reduce the likelihood of derivative litigation against directors and officers, even though an action, if successful, might benefit us and our stockholders. Moreover, a stockholder’s investment may be harmed to the extent we pay the costs of settlement and damage awards against directors and officers pursuant to these indemnification provisions.

 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to our directors, officers and controlling persons pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, we have been advised that, in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act, and is, therefore, unenforceable. There is no pending litigation or proceeding naming any of our directors or officers as to which indemnification is being sought, nor are we aware of any pending or threatened litigation that may result in claims for indemnification by any director or officer.

 

We intend to enter, into separate indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers, in addition to the indemnification that will be provided for in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws. The indemnification agreements and our amended restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws that will be in effect upon the completion of this offering require us to indemnify our directors, executive officers and certain controlling persons to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. See the section titled “Executive Compensation — Limitation of Liability and Indemnification” for additional information.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

Our named executive officers for 2020 which consisted of our principal executive officer and the next most highly compensated executive officer, were:

 

Joseph C. Visconti, President and Chief Executive Officer;
Preston Yarborough, Vice President; and
Donna Barnett, Chief Financial Officer.

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

The following table sets forth information regarding the compensation that was paid to our named executive officers during the years ended December 31, 2019 and December  31, 2020.

  

Name and Principal Position   Year   Salary
($)
    Option
Awards
($)(1)
    All Other
Compensation
($)
    Total
($)
Joseph C. Visconti   2020     200,000     $         40,000     240,000
President and Chief Executive Officer                                
Preston Yarborough   2020     150,000              —     150,000
Vice President                  —        —      
Donna Barnett   2020     100,000                   100,000
Chief Financial Officer                                
                                 

  

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

As of December 31, 2020, we had not issued any equity awards to any of our named executive directors.

 

Employment Arrangements with Our Named Executive Officers

 

As of December 31, 2020, we had not entered into any employment arrangements with any of our named executive directors.

 

Employee Benefit and Stock Plans

 

Simple IRA Plan

 

We maintain a Simple IRA retirement savings plan for the benefit of our employees, including our named executive officers, who satisfy certain eligibility requirements. Under the Simple IRA, eligible employees may elect to defer a portion of their compensation, within the limits prescribed by the Code, on a pre-tax basis through contributions to the Simple IRA plan. The Simple IRA plan authorizes employer safe harbor matching contributions equal to 3% of covered compensation for eligible employees. The Simple IRA plan is intended to qualify under Sections 401(a) and 501(a) of the Code. As a tax-qualified retirement program, contributions to the Simple IRA plan and earnings on those contributions are not taxable to the employees until distributed from the Simple IRA plan.

 

2021 Stock Incentive Plan

 

On April 8, 2021, our board of directors and our stockholders approved the Twin Vee PowerCats Co. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan, or the 2021 Plan. The 2021 Plan will become effective immediately prior to the closing of the Company’s initial public offering described herein. The principal provisions of the 2021 Plan are summarized below.

 

Administration

 

The 2021 Plan vests broad powers in a committee to administer and interpret the 2021 Plan. Our board of directors has initially designated the compensation committee to administer the 2021 Plan. Except when limited by the terms of the 2021 Plan, the compensation committee has the authority to, among other things: select the persons to be granted awards; determine the type, size and term of awards; establish performance objectives and conditions for earning awards; determine whether such performance objectives and conditions have been met; and accelerate the vesting or exercisability of an award. In its discretion, the compensation committee may delegate all or part of its authority and duties with respect to granting awards to one or more of our officers, subject to certain limitations and provided applicable law so permits.

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Our board of directors may amend, alter or discontinue the 2021 Plan and the compensation committee may amend any outstanding award at any time; provided, however, that no such amendment or termination may adversely affect awards then outstanding without the holder’s permission. In addition, any amendments seeking to increase the total number of shares reserved for issuance under the 2021 Plan or modifying the classes of participants eligible to receive awards under the 2021 Plan will require ratification by our stockholders in accordance with applicable law. Additionally, as described more fully below, neither the compensation committee nor the board of directors is permitted to reprice outstanding options or stock appreciation rights without shareholder consent.

 

Eligibility

 

Any of our employees, directors, consultants, and other service providers, or those of our affiliates, are eligible to participate in the 2021 Plan and may be selected by the compensation committee to receive an award.

 

Vesting

 

The compensation committee determines the vesting conditions for awards. These conditions may include the continued employment or service of the participant, the attainment of specific individual or corporate performance goals, or other factors as determined in the compensation committee’s discretion (collectively, “Vesting Conditions”).

 

Shares of Stock Available for Issuance

 

Subject to certain adjustments, the maximum number of shares of common stock that may be issued under the 2021 Plan in connection with awards is 2,000,000 shares. In addition, the maximum number of shares of common stock that may be issued under the 2021 Plan will automatically increase on January 1 of each calendar year for a period of ten years commencing on January 1, 2022 and ending on (and including) January 1, 2031, in a number of shares of common stock equal to 4.5% of the total number of shares of common stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding calendar year; provided, however that the board of directors may act prior to January 1 of a given calendar year to provide that the increase for such year will be a lesser number of shares of common stock. All available shares may be utilized toward the grant of any type of award under the 2021 Plan. The 2021 Plan imposes a $250,000 limitation on the total grant date fair value of awards granted to any non-employee director in his or her capacity as a non-employee director in any single calendar year.

 

In the event of any merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, split up, spin-off, combination of shares, exchange of shares, stock dividend, dividend in kind, or other like change in capital structure (other than ordinary cash dividends), or other similar corporate event or transaction that affects our common stock, the compensation committee shall make adjustments to the number and kind of shares authorized by the 2021 Plan and covered under outstanding 2021 Plan awards as it determines appropriate and equitable.

 

Shares subject to 2021 Plan awards that expire without being fully exercised or that are otherwise forfeited, cancelled or terminated may again be made available for issuance under the 2021 Plan. However, shares withheld in settlement of a tax withholding obligation, or in satisfaction of the exercise price payable upon exercise of an option, will not again become available for issuance under the 2021 Plan.

 

Types of Awards

 

The following types of awards may be granted to participants under the 2021 Plan: (i) incentive stock options, or ISOs; (ii) nonqualified stock options, or NQOs and together with ISOs, options, (iii) stock appreciation rights, (iv) restricted stock, or (v) restricted stock units.

 

Stock Options. An option entitles the holder to purchase from us a stated number of shares of common stock. An ISO may only be granted to an employee of ours or our eligible affiliates. The compensation committee will specify the number of shares of common stock subject to each option and the exercise price for such option, provided that the exercise price may not be less than the fair market value of a share of common stock on the date the option is granted. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if ISOs are granted to any 10% stockholder, the exercise price shall not be less than 110% of the fair market value of common stock on the date the option is granted.

 

Generally, options may be exercised in whole or in part through a cash payment. The compensation committee may, in its sole discretion, permit payment of the exercise price of an option in the form of previously acquired shares based on the fair market value of the shares on the date the option is exercised, through means of  “net settlement,” which involves the cancellation of a portion of the option to cover the cost of exercising the balance of the option or by such other means as it deems acceptable.

 

All options shall be or become exercisable in accordance with the terms of the applicable award agreement. The maximum term of an option shall be determined by the compensation committee on the date of grant but shall not exceed 10 years (5 years in the case of ISOs granted to any 10% stockholder). In the case of ISOs, the aggregate fair market value (determined as of the date of grant) of common stock with respect to which such ISOs become exercisable for the first time during any calendar year cannot exceed $100,000. ISOs granted in excess of this limitation will be treated as non-qualified stock options.

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Stock Appreciation Rights. A stock appreciation right represents the right to receive, upon exercise, any appreciation in a share of common stock over a particular time period. The base price of a stock appreciation right shall not be less than the fair market value of a share of common stock on the date the stock appreciation right is granted. This award is intended to mirror the benefit the participant would have received if the compensation committee had granted the participant an option. The maximum term of a stock appreciation right shall be determined by the compensation committee on the date of grant but shall not exceed 10 years. Distributions with respect to stock appreciation rights may be made in cash, shares of common stock, or a combination of both, at the compensation committee’s discretion.

 

Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement or determined by the compensation committee, if a participant terminates employment with us (or our affiliates) due to death or disability, the participant’s unexercised options and stock appreciation rights may be exercised, to the extent they were exercisable on the termination date, for a period of twelve months from the termination date or until the expiration of the original award term, whichever period is shorter. If the participant terminates employment with us (or our affiliates) for cause, (i) all unexercised options and stock appreciation rights (whether vested or unvested) shall terminate and be forfeited on the termination date, and (ii) any shares in respect of exercised options or stock appreciation rights for which we have not yet delivered share certificates will be forfeited and we will refund to the participant the option exercise price paid for those shares, if any. If the participant’s employment terminates for any other reason, any vested but unexercised options and stock appreciation rights may be exercised by the participant, to the extent exercisable at the time of termination, for a period of ninety days from the termination date (or such time as specified by the compensation committee at or after grant) or until the expiration of the original option or stock appreciation right term, whichever period is shorter. Unless otherwise provided by the compensation committee, any options and stock appreciation rights that are not exercisable at the time of termination of employment shall terminate and be forfeited on the termination date.

 

Restricted Stock. A restricted stock award is a grant of shares of common stock, which are subject to forfeiture restrictions during a restriction period. The compensation committee will determine the price, if any, to be paid by the participant for each share of common stock subject to a restricted stock award. The restricted stock may be subject to Vesting Conditions. If the specified Vesting Conditions are not attained, the participant will forfeit the portion of the restricted stock award with respect to which those conditions are not attained, and the underlying common stock will be forfeited to us. At the end of the restriction period, if the Vesting Conditions have been satisfied, the restrictions imposed will lapse with respect to the applicable number of shares. Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement or determined by the compensation committee, upon termination a participant will forfeit all restricted stock that then remains subject to forfeiture restrictions.

 

Restricted Stock Units. Restricted stock units are granted in reference to a specified number of shares of common stock and entitle the holder to receive, on the achievement of applicable Vesting Conditions, shares of common stock. Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement or determined by the Compensation committee, upon termination a participant will forfeit all restricted stock units that then remain subject to forfeiture.

 

Change in Control

 

In the event of a change in control, the compensation committee may, on a participant-by-participant basis: (i) cause any or all outstanding awards to become vested and immediately exercisable (as applicable), in whole or in part; (ii) cause any outstanding option or stock appreciation right to become fully vested and immediately exercisable for a reasonable period in advance of the change in control and, to the extent not exercised prior to that change in control, cancel that option or stock appreciation right upon closing of the change in control; (iii) cancel any unvested award or unvested portion thereof, with or without consideration; (iv) cancel any award in exchange for a substitute award; (v) redeem any restricted stock or restricted stock unit for cash and/or other substitute consideration with value equal to the fair market value of an unrestricted share on the date of the change in control; (vi) cancel any outstanding option or stock appreciation right with respect to all common stock for which the award remains unexercised in exchange for a cash payment equal to the excess (if any) of the fair market value of the common stock subject to the option or stock appreciation right over the exercise price of the option or stock appreciation right; (vii) impose vesting terms on cash or substitute consideration payable upon cancellation of an award that are substantially similar to those that applied to the cancelled award immediately prior to the change in control, and/or earn-out, escrow, holdback or similar arrangements, to the extent such arrangements are applicable to any consideration paid to stockholders in connection with the change in control; (viii) take such other action as the compensation committee shall determine to be reasonable under the circumstances; and/or (ix) in the case of any award subject to Section 409A of the Code, the compensation committee shall only be permitted to use discretion to alter the settlement timing of the award to the extent that such discretion would be permitted under Section 409A of the Code.

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Repricing

 

Neither our board of directors nor the compensation committee may, without obtaining prior approval of our stockholders: (i) implement any cancellation/re-grant program pursuant to which outstanding options or stock appreciation rights under the 2021 Plan are cancelled and new options or stock appreciation rights are granted in replacement with a lower exercise per share; (ii) cancel outstanding options or stock appreciation rights under the 2021 Plan with an exercise price per share in excess of the then current fair market value per share for consideration payable in our equity securities; or (iii) otherwise directly reduce the exercise price in effect for outstanding options or stock appreciation rights under the 2021 Plan.

 

Miscellaneous

 

Generally, awards granted under the 2021 Plan shall be nontransferable except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. No participant shall have any rights as a stockholder with respect to shares covered by options or restricted stock units, unless and until such awards are settled in shares of common stock. The Company’s obligation to issue shares or to otherwise make payments in respect of 2021 Plan awards will be conditioned on the Company’s ability to do so in compliance with all applicable laws and exchange listing requirements. The awards will be subject to our recoupment and stock ownership policies, as may be in effect from time to time. The 2021 Plan will expire 10 years after it becomes effective.

 

Grants Contingent on Effectiveness of the Offering

 

In addition, upon the initial public offering, all non-employee directors will receive initial grants of non-qualified stock options under the 2021 Plan, as described in the section titled “Equity Compensation” above. All of the benefits that will be awarded or paid under the 2021 Plan are at the discretion of the Compensation Committee and except for the stock option awards noted above, no other awards have been approved under the 2021 Plan.

 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

Each of the related party transactions described below was negotiated on an arm’s length basis. We believe that the terms of such agreements are as favorable as those we could have obtained from parties not related to us. The following are summaries of certain provisions of our related party agreements and are qualified in their entirety by reference to all of the provisions of such agreements. Because these descriptions are only summaries of the applicable agreements, they do not necessarily contain all of the information that you may find useful. We therefore urge you to review the agreements in their entirety. Copies of the forms of the agreements have been filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part, and are available electronically on the website of the SEC at www.sec.gov.

 

In addition to the compensation arrangements, including employment, termination of employment and change in control arrangements, with our directors and executive officers, including those discussed in the sections titled “Management” and “Executive Compensation,” the following is a description of each transaction since January 1, 2019 or any currently proposed transaction in which:

 

• we have been or are to be a party to;

• the amount involved exceeded or exceeds $120,000 or 1% of the average of our total assets as of the end of the last two completed fiscal years; and

• any of our directors, executive officers or holders of more than 5% of our outstanding capital stock, or any immediate family member of, or person sharing the household with, any of these individuals or entities, had or will have a direct or indirect material interest.

 

For information on our compensation arrangements, including employment, termination of employment and change in control arrangements, with our directors and executive officers, see the sections titled “Management” and “Executive Compensation,”

 

We lease our facility from Visconti Holdings, LLC, (“Visconti Holdings”) an entity owned and controlled by our Chief Executive Officer, President and Director, Joseph Visconti, pursuant to a lease agreement (the “Lease Agreement”), dated January 1, 2021, by and among the Company, Visconti Holdings, LLC and Twin Vee Powercats, Inc., our parent company. The Lease Agreement currently has a 5-year term, with an option to renew for an additional 5-year term. We currently pay Visconti Holdings $26,500 per month plus applicable sales and use tax, which is currently 7% in St. Lucie County.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, we entered into a loan and promissory note with Joseph C. Visconti. The principal amount of the loan was $525,500, together with a simple interest rate of 6% on the balance of principal remaining unpaid. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, we repaid $497,650 and $0, respectively. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the outstanding amount of the note payable was $27,850 and $525,500, respectively. Accrued interest at December 31, 2020 and 2019, amounted to $62,317 and $31,530, respectively. Subsequent to year end, the note has been paid in full.

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Indemnification Agreements

 

We intend to enter, into separate indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers, in addition to the indemnification that will be provided for in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws. The indemnification agreements and our amended restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws that will be in effect upon the completion of this offering require us to indemnify our directors, executive officers and certain controlling persons to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. See the section titled “Executive Compensation — Limitation of Liability and Indemnification” for additional information.

 

Our Policy Regarding Related Party Transactions

 

Our board of directors recognizes the fact that transactions with related persons present a heightened risk of conflicts of interest and/or improper valuation (or the perception thereof). Prior to the closing of this offering, our board of directors will adopt a written policy on transactions with related persons that is in conformity with the requirements for issuers having publicly-held common stock that is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market. Under the new policy:

 

• any related person transaction, and any material amendment or modification to a related person transaction, must be reviewed and approved or ratified by the Audit Committee; and

 

• any employment relationship or transaction involving an executive officer and any related compensation must be approved by the compensation committee of the board of directors or recommended by the compensation committee to the board of directors for its approval.

 

In connection with the review and approval or ratification of a related person transaction:

 

• management must disclose to the committee or disinterested directors, as applicable, the name of the related person and the basis on which the person is a related person, the material terms of the related person transaction, including the approximate dollar value of the amount involved in the transaction, and all the material facts as to the related person’s direct or indirect interest in, or relationship to, the related person transaction;

 

• management must advise the committee or disinterested directors, as applicable, as to whether the related person transaction complies with the terms of our agreements governing our material outstanding indebtedness that limit or restrict our ability to enter into a related person transaction;

 

• management must advise the committee or disinterested directors, as applicable, as to whether the related person transaction will be required to be disclosed in our applicable filings under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, and related rules, and, to the extent required to be disclosed, management must ensure that the related person transaction is disclosed in accordance with the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and related rules; and

 

• management must advise the committee or disinterested directors, as applicable, as to whether the related person transaction constitutes a “personal loan” for purposes of Section 402 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

 

In addition, the related person transaction policy provides that the committee or disinterested directors, as applicable, in connection with any approval or ratification of a related person transaction involving a non-employee director, should consider whether such transaction would compromise the director’s status as an “independent,” “outside,” or “non-employee” director, as applicable, under the rules and regulations of the SEC, the Nasdaq Stock Market, and the Code.

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PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

 

The following table sets forth the beneficial ownership of our common stock as of [   ], 2021 by:

 

each person, or group of affiliated persons, who is known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our common stock;

 

each of the named executive officers;

 

each of our directors; and

 

all of our current executive officers and directors as a group.

 

We have determined beneficial ownership in accordance with the rules of the SEC, and thus it represents sole or shared voting or investment power with respect to our securities. Unless otherwise indicated below, to our knowledge, the persons and entities named in the table have sole voting and sole investment power with respect to all shares that they beneficially owned, subject to community property laws where applicable. The information does not necessarily indicate beneficial ownership for any other purpose, including for purposes of Sections 13(d) and 13(g) of the Exchange Act.

 

We have based our calculation of the percentage of beneficial ownership prior to this offering on [   ] shares of our common stock outstanding as of [   ]. We have based our calculation of the percentage of beneficial ownership after this offering on [   ] shares of our common stock outstanding immediately after the completion of this offering, assuming no exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares. We have deemed shares of our common stock subject to stock options that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of [   ], to be outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person holding the stock option for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of that person. We did not deem these shares outstanding, however, for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each beneficial owner listed in the table below is c/o Twin Vee PowerCats Co. 3101 S. US-1 Ft. Pierce, Florida 34982.

 

    Shares Beneficially Owned   Shares Beneficially Owned
    Prior to this Offering   After this Offering
Name of Beneficial Owner   Shares   Percentage   Shares   Percentage
Named Executive Officers and Directors                
Joseph Visconti (1)   4,491,200   56.14%        
Preston Yarborough      *            
Peter Melvin   *            
Neil Ross   *            
Steven A. Shallcross   *            
Donna Barnett   *            
All executive officers and directors as a group  (6 persons)                
5% Stockholders                
Twin Vee Powercats, Inc(1)   8,000,000   100%        

 

  * Represents beneficial ownership of less than one percent.

 

  (1) Joseph Visconti is the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of our parent company, Twin Vee Powercats, Inc., and owns 56.14% of the outstanding stock of Twin Vee Powercats, Inc. Twin Vee Powercats, Inc. is the owner of 8,000,000 shares of common stock, which prior to this offering represents all of our outstanding shares of common stock. As a controlling shareholder of Twin Vee Powercats, Inc., Mr. Visconti is deemed to have control over the shares of common stock of our company owned by Twin Vee Powercats, Inc. Mr. Visconti disclaims beneficial ownership of these securities.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

 

General

 

Our certificate of incorporation authorizes capital stock consisting of:

 

50,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share; and
10,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.001 per share.

 

We are selling ___________ shares of common stock in this offering. All of our common stock outstanding upon consummation of this offering will be fully paid and non-assessable.

 

The following description of our capital stock and provisions of our certificate of incorporation and by-laws are summaries and are qualified by reference to the certificate of incorporation and by-laws. We urge you to read our certificate and our by-laws, which are included as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part.

 

Certain provisions of our certificate and our by-laws summarized below may be deemed to have an anti-takeover effect and may delay or prevent a tender offer or takeover attempt that a stockholder might consider in its best interest, including those attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares of common stock.

 

Common Stock

 

Holders of shares of our common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held of record on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. Except as otherwise provided in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or as required by law, all matters to be voted on by our stockholders other than matters relating to the election and removal of directors must be approved by a majority of the shares present in person or by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter or by a written resolution of the stockholders representing the number of affirmative votes required for such matter at a meeting. The holders of our common stock do not have cumulative voting rights in the election of directors.

 

Holders of shares of our common stock are entitled to receive dividends when and if declared by our board of directors out of funds legally available therefor, subject to any statutory or contractual restrictions on the payment of dividends and to any restrictions on the payment of dividends imposed by the terms of any outstanding preferred stock.

 

Upon our dissolution or liquidation or the sale of all or substantially all of our assets, after payment in full of all amounts required to be paid to creditors and subject to any rights of preferred stockholders, the holders of shares of our common stock will be entitled to receive pro rata our remaining assets available for distribution.

 

Holders of shares of our common stock do not have preemptive, subscription, redemption, or conversion rights. There will be no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to the common stock.

 

Preferred Stock

 

Our Board of Directors has the authority, without action by our stockholders, to designate and issue up to 10 million shares of preferred stock in one or more series or classes and to designate the rights, preferences and privileges of each series or class, which may be greater than the rights of our common stock. There are no shares of preferred stock designated or outstanding. It is not possible to state the actual effect of the issuance of any shares of preferred stock upon the rights of holders of our common stock until our Board of Directors determines the specific rights of the holders of the preferred stock. However, the effects might include:

 

restricting dividends on our common stock;
diluting the voting power of our common stock;
impairing liquidation rights of our common stock; or
delaying or preventing a change in control of us without further action by our stockholders.

 

The Board of Directors’ authority to issue preferred stock without stockholder approval could make it more difficult for a third-party to acquire control of our company and could discourage such attempt. We have no present plans to issue any shares of preferred stock.

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Forum Selection

 

Our certificate of incorporation provides that unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, be the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf; (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors, officers or other employees to us or our stockholders; (iii) any action asserting a claim against us, any director or our officers or employees arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL, our certificate of incorporation or our by-laws; or (iv) any action asserting a claim against us, any director or our officers or employees that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine, except, as to each of clauses (i) through (iv) above, for any claim as to which the Court of Chancery determines that there is an indispensable party not subject to the jurisdiction of the Court of Chancery (and the indispensable party does not consent to the personal jurisdiction of the Court of Chancery within ten (10) days following such determination), which is vested in the exclusive jurisdiction of a court or forum other than the Court of Chancery, or for which the Court of Chancery does not have subject matter jurisdiction. The certificate of incorporation further provides that the choice of the Court of Chancery as the sole and exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation does not apply to suits to enforce a duty or liability created by the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.

 

Anti-Takeover Provisions

 

Our certificate of incorporation and by-laws contain provisions that may delay, defer, or discourage another party from acquiring control of us. We expect that these provisions, which are summarized below, will discourage coercive takeover practices or inadequate takeover bids. These provisions are also designed to encourage persons seeking to acquire control of us to first negotiate with our board of directors, which we believe may result in an improvement of the terms of any such acquisition in favor of our stockholders. However, they also give our board of directors the power to discourage acquisitions that some stockholders may favor.

 

Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law. We are subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law. Subject to certain exceptions, Section 203 prevents a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in a “business combination” with any “interested stockholder” for three years following the date that the person became an interested stockholder, unless the interested stockholder attained such status with the approval of our board of directors or unless the business combination is approved in a prescribed manner. A “business combination” includes, among other things, a merger or consolidation involving us and the “interested stockholder” and the sale of more than 10% of our assets. In general, an “interested stockholder” is any entity or person beneficially owning 15% or more of our outstanding voting stock and any entity or person affiliated with or controlling or controlled by such entity or person.

 

Classified Board of Directors. Our certificate divides our board of directors into staggered three-year terms. In addition, our certificate and our by-laws provide that directors may be removed only for cause. Under our certificate and by-laws, any vacancy on our board of directors, including a vacancy resulting from an enlargement of our board of directors, may be filled only by the affirmative vote of a majority of our directors then in office, even though less than a quorum of the board of directors. The classification of our board of directors and the limitations on the ability of our stockholders to remove directors and fill vacancies could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or discourage a third party from seeking to acquire, control of us.

 

Authorized but Unissued Shares. The authorized but unissued shares of our common stock are available for future issuance without stockholder approval, subject to any limitations imposed by the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market. These additional shares may be used for a variety of corporate finance transactions, acquisitions, and employee benefit plans. The existence of authorized but unissued and unreserved common stock could make it more difficult or discourage an attempt to obtain control of us by means of a proxy contest, tender offer, merger, or otherwise.

 

Stockholder Action by Written Consent. Our certificate and our by-laws provide that any action required or permitted to be taken by our stockholders at an annual meeting or special meeting of stockholders may only be taken if it is properly brought before such meeting and may be taken by written consent in lieu of a meeting only if the action to be effected by such written consent and the taking of such action by such written consent have been previously approved by the board of directors.

 

Special Meetings of Stockholders. Our by-laws also provide that, except as otherwise required by law, special meetings of the stockholders may only be called by our board of directors.

 

Advance Notice Requirements for Stockholder Proposals and Director Nominations. In addition, our by-laws establish an advance notice procedure for stockholder proposals to be brought before an annual meeting of stockholders, including proposed nominations of candidates for election to our board of directors. In order for any matter to be “properly brought” before a meeting, a stockholder will have to comply with advance notice and duration of ownership requirements and provide us with certain information. Stockholders at an annual meeting may only consider proposals or nominations specified in the notice of meeting or brought before the meeting by or at the direction of our board of directors or by a qualified stockholder of record on the record date for the meeting, who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who has delivered timely written notice in proper form to our secretary of the stockholder’s intention to bring such business before the meeting. These provisions could have the effect of delaying stockholder actions that are favored by the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities until the next stockholder meeting.

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Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation or By-laws. The Delaware General Corporation Law provides generally that the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares entitled to vote on any matter is required to amend a corporation’s certificate of incorporation or by-laws, unless a corporation’s certificate of incorporation or by-laws, as the case may be, requires a greater percentage. Upon completion of this offering, our bylaws may be amended or repealed by a majority vote of our board of directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the votes which all our stockholders would be eligible to cast in an election of directors. In addition, the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the votes which all our stockholders would be eligible to cast in an election of directors will be required to amend or repeal or to adopt any provisions inconsistent with any of the provisions of our certificate described in the prior three paragraphs.

 

Limitations on Liability and Indemnification of Officers and Directors

 

Our certificate and by-laws provide indemnification for our directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law. Prior to the completion of this offering, we intend to enter into indemnification agreements with each of our directors that may, in some cases, be broader than the specific indemnification provisions contained under Delaware law. In addition, as permitted by Delaware law, our certificate includes provisions that eliminate the personal liability of our directors for monetary damages resulting from breaches of certain fiduciary duties as a director. The effect of these provisions is to restrict our rights and the rights of our stockholders in derivative suits to recover monetary damages against a director for breach of fiduciary duties as a director, except that a director will be personally liable for:

 

any breach of his duty of loyalty to us or our stockholders;
acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law;
any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit; or
improper distributions to stockholders.

 

These provisions may be held not to be enforceable for violations of the federal securities laws of the United States.

 

Dissenters’ Rights of Appraisal and Payment

 

Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, with certain exceptions, our stockholders will have appraisal rights in connection with a merger or consolidation of Twin Vee Powercats, Inc. Pursuant to the Delaware General Corporation Law, stockholders who properly request and perfect appraisal rights in connection with such merger or consolidation will have the right to receive payment of the fair value of their shares as determined by the Delaware Court of Chancery.

 

Stockholders’ Derivative Actions

 

Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, any of our stockholders may bring an action in our name to procure a judgment in our favor, also known as a derivative action, provided that the stockholder bringing the action is a holder of our shares at the time of the transaction to which the action relates or such stockholder’s stock thereafter devolved by operation of law.

 

Transfer Agent and Registrar

 

The transfer agent and registrar for our common stock is Interwest Transfer Company, Inc.

 

Trading Symbol and Market

 

We intend to apply to list our common stock on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “VEEE.”

 

SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

 

If our stockholders sell substantial amounts of our common stock, including shares issued upon the exercise of outstanding options or warrants, in the public market following the offering, the market price of our common stock could decline. These sales also might make it more difficult for us to sell equity or equity related securities in the future at a time and price that we deem appropriate.

 

Upon completion of the offering, we will have outstanding an aggregate of ___________ shares of our common stock, assuming no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares and no exercise of outstanding options. Of these shares, all of the shares sold in the offering will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act, unless the shares are purchased by “affiliates” as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act.

 

Upon consummation of this offering, our existing stockholders will hold ___________________ shares of common stock. The shares of common stock will be “restricted securities” as defined in Rule 144 unless we register such issuances.

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Rule 144

 

In general, under Rule 144 as in effect on the date of this prospectus, beginning 90 days after the completion of this offering, a person (or persons whose shares are required to be aggregated) who is an affiliate and who has beneficially owned our shares for at least six months is entitled to sell in any three-month period a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of:

 

1% of the number of shares of common stock then outstanding, which will equal approximately shares of common stock immediately after completion of this offering; or
the average weekly trading volume in our shares on the applicable stock exchange during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to such a sale.

 

Sales by our affiliates under Rule 144 are also subject to manner of sale provisions and notice requirements and to the availability of current public information about us. An “affiliate” is a person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls or is controlled by, or is under common control with an issuer.

 

Under Rule 144, a person (or persons whose shares are aggregated) who is not deemed to have been an affiliate of ours at any time during the 90 days preceding a sale, and who has beneficially owned the shares of common stock proposed to be sold for at least six months (including the holding period of any prior owner other than an affiliate), would be entitled to sell those shares subject only to availability of current public information about us, and after beneficially owning such shares for at least 12 months (including the holding period of any prior owner other than an affiliate), would be entitled to sell an unlimited number of such shares without restriction. To the extent that our affiliates sell their shares, other than pursuant to Rule 144 or a registration statement, the purchaser’s holding period for the purpose of affecting a sale under Rule 144 commences on the date of transfer from the affiliate.

 

Lock-Up Agreements

 

We and our officers and directors and existing stockholders have agreed, subject to certain exceptions, that, without the prior written consent of ______________________ on behalf of the underwriters, we and they will not, during the period ending 180 days after the date of this prospectus (i) offer, pledge, announce the intention to sell, 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 dispose of, directly or indirectly, or file with the SEC a registration statement under the Securities Act relating to, any shares of our common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for any shares of our common stock, or publicly disclose the intention to make any offer, sale, pledge, disposition, or filing, (ii) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers all or a portion of the economic consequences associated with the ownership of any shares of common stock or any such other securities (regardless of whether any of these transactions are to be settled by the delivery of shares of common stock or such other securities, in cash or otherwise), or (iii) make any demand for or exercise any right with respect to the registration of any shares of our common stock or any security convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for our common stock, other than the shares of our common stock to be sold hereunder. [_________________], in their sole discretion, may release the common stock and other securities subject to the lock-up agreements described above in whole or in part at any time with or without notice. See “Underwriting (Conflicts of Interest).”

 

Equity Awards

 

In general, under Rule 701 of the Securities Act as currently in effect, any of our employees, consultants, or advisors who purchase shares of our common stock from us in connection with a compensatory stock or option plan or other written agreement is eligible to resell those shares 90 days after the effective date of the offering in reliance on Rule 144, but without compliance with some of the restrictions, including the holding period, contained in Rule 144.

 

Following the offering, we intend to file a registration statement on Form S-8 under the Securities Act covering approximately shares of common stock issued or issuable upon the exercise of stock options, subject to outstanding options or reserved for issuance under our employee and director stock benefit plans. Accordingly, shares registered under the registration statement will, subject to Rule 144 provisions applicable to affiliates, be available for sale in the open market, except to the extent that the shares are subject to vesting restrictions or the contractual restrictions described above.

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MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-U.S. HOLDERS OF OUR COMMON STOCK

 

The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our common stock acquired in this offering by a “non-U.S. holder” (as defined below), but does not purport to be a complete analysis of all the potential tax considerations relating thereto. This summary is based upon the provisions of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, administrative rulings and judicial decisions, all as of the date hereof. These authorities may be changed, possibly retroactively, so as to result in U.S. federal income tax consequences different from those set forth below. We have not sought, and do not intend to seek, any ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, with respect to the statements made and the conclusions reached in the following summary, and there can be no assurance that the IRS or a court will agree with such statements and conclusions.

 

This summary also does not address the tax considerations arising under the laws of any state or local or non-U.S. jurisdiction or under U.S. federal gift and estate tax rules, or rising out of other non-income tax rules, except to the limited extent set forth below. In addition, this discussion does not address tax considerations applicable to an investor’s particular circumstances or to investors that may be subject to special tax rules, including, without limitation:

 

• banks, insurance companies, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts or other financial institutions;

 

• persons subject to the alternative minimum tax or the tax on net investment income;

 

• persons subject to special tax accounting rules as a result of any item of gross income with respect to our common stock being taken into account in an applicable financial statement;

 

• tax-exempt organizations or governmental organizations;

 

• pension plans and tax-qualified retirement plans;

 

• controlled foreign corporations, passive foreign investment companies and corporations that accumulate earnings to avoid U.S. federal income tax;

 

• partnerships or other entities or arrangements treated as partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes (and investors therein);

 

• brokers or dealers in securities or currencies;

 

• traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings;

 

• persons that own, or are deemed to own, more than five percent of our capital stock (except to the extent specifically set forth below);

 

• certain former citizens or long-term residents of the United States;

 

• persons who hold our common stock as a position in a hedging transaction, “straddle,” “conversion transaction” or other risk reduction transaction or integrated investment;

 

• persons who hold or receive our common stock pursuant to the exercise of any option or otherwise as compensation;

 

• persons who do not hold our common stock as a capital asset within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code (generally, property held for investment); and

 

• persons deemed to sell our common stock under the constructive sale provisions of the Code.

 

In addition, if a partnership, entity or arrangement classified as a partnership or flow-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds our common stock, the tax treatment of a partner generally will depend on the status of the partner and upon the activities of the partnership or other entity. A partner in a partnership or other such entity that will hold our common stock should consult his, her or its own tax advisor regarding the tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our common stock through a partnership or other such entity, as applicable.

 

This summary is for informational purposes only and is not tax advice. Each non-U.S. holder is urged to consult its own tax advisor with respect to the application of the U.S. federal income tax laws to its particular situation, as well as any tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our common stock arising under the U.S. federal gift or estate tax rules or under the laws of any state, local, non-U.S. or other taxing jurisdiction or under any applicable tax treaty.

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Non-U.S. Holder Defined

 

For purposes of this discussion, a “non-U.S. holder” is a beneficial owner of our common stock that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is neither a “U.S. person” nor an entity (or arrangement) treated as a partnership. A “U.S. person” is any person that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is or is treated as any of the following:

 

an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;
a corporation or other entity taxable as a corporation created or organized in the United States or under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof, or otherwise treated as such for U.S. federal income tax purposes;
an estate whose income is subject to U.S. federal income tax regardless of its source; or
a trust (x) whose administration is subject to the primary supervision of a U.S. court and that has one or more U.S. persons who have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (y) that has made a valid election under applicable Treasury Regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

 

Distributions

 

As described in the section titled “Dividend Policy,” we have never declared or paid cash dividends on our common stock, and we do not anticipate paying any dividends on our common stock following the completion of this offering. However, if we do make distributions of cash or property on our common stock to non-U.S. holders, such distributions will constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent paid from our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. To the extent those distributions exceed both our current and our accumulated earnings and profits, the excess will first constitute a return of capital and will reduce each non-U.S. holder’s adjusted tax basis in our common stock, but not below zero. Any additional excess will then be treated as capital gain from the sale of stock, as discussed under “Gain on Disposition of Common Stock.”

 

Subject to the discussions below on effectively connected income, and backup withholding and Compliance Act, or FATCA, withholding, any dividend paid to a non-U.S. holder generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax either at a rate of 30% of the gross amount of the dividend or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty between the United States and such non-U.S. holder’s country of residence. In order to receive a reduced treaty rate, such non-U.S. holder must provide the applicable withholding agent with an IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E or other appropriate version of IRS Form W-8 certifying qualification for the reduced treaty rate. A non-U.S. holder of shares of our common stock eligible for a reduced rate of U.S. federal withholding tax pursuant to an income tax treaty may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by filing an appropriate claim for refund with the IRS. If such non-U.S. holder holds our common stock through a financial institution or other agent acting on the non-U.S. holder’s behalf, the non-U.S. holder will be required to provide appropriate documentation to such agent, which then will be required to provide certification to the applicable withholding agent, either directly or through other intermediaries. Each non-U.S. holder should consult its own tax advisors regarding their entitlement to benefits under any applicable income tax treaty.

 

Dividends received by a non-U.S. holder that are treated as effectively connected with such non-U.S. holder’s conduct of a trade or business within the United States (and, if an applicable income tax treaty so provides, such non-U.S. holder maintains a permanent establishment or fixed base in the United States to which such dividends are attributable) are generally exempt from the 30% U.S. federal withholding tax, subject to the discussion below on backup withholding and FATCA withholding. To claim this exemption, a non-U.S. holder must provide the applicable withholding agent with a properly executed IRS Form W-8ECI or other applicable IRS Form W-8 properly certifying such exemption. Such effectively connected dividends, although not subject to U.S. federal withholding tax, are taxed at the same graduated rates applicable to U.S. persons, net of certain deductions and credits, subject to an applicable income tax treaty providing otherwise. In addition, if a non-U.S. holder is a corporation, dividends such non-U.S. holder receives that are effectively connected with its conduct of a U.S. trade or business may also be subject to a branch profits tax at a rate of 30% or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty between the United States and such non-U.S. holder’s country of residence. Each non-U.S. holder should consult its own tax advisor regarding the tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our common stock, including any applicable tax treaties that may provide for different rules.

 

Gain on Disposition of Common Stock

 

Subject to the discussion below regarding backup withholding and FATCA withholding, a non-U.S. holder generally will not be required to pay U.S. federal income tax on any gain realized upon the sale or other disposition of our common stock unless:

 

• the gain is effectively connected with such non-U.S. holder’s conduct of a U.S. trade or business (and, if an applicable income tax treaty so provides, such non-U.S. holder maintains a permanent establishment or fixed base in the United States to which such gain is attributable);

 

• such non-U.S. holder is an individual who is present in the United States for an aggregate 183 days or more during the taxable year in which the sale or disposition occurs and certain other conditions are met; or

 

• our common stock constitutes a United States real property interest, or USRPI, by reason of our status as a “United States real property holding corporation,” or USRPHC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

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We believe that we are not currently and will not become a USRPHC for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the remainder of this discussion so assumes. However, because the determination of whether we are a USRPHC depends on the fair market value of our U.S. real property interests relative to the fair market value of our U.S. and worldwide real property interests plus our other business assets, there can be no assurance that we will not become a USRPHC in the future. Even if we become a USRPHC, however, as long as our common stock is regularly traded on an established securities market, your common stock will be treated as U.S. real property interests only if you actually (directly or indirectly) or constructively hold more than 5% of such regularly traded common stock at any time during the shorter of the five-year period preceding your disposition of, or your holding period for, our common stock.

 

A non-U.S. holder described in the first bullet above will be required to pay U.S. federal income tax on the gain derived from the sale (net of certain deductions and credits) under regular graduated U.S. federal income tax rates. Such a non-U.S. holder that is a corporation may be subject to the branch profits tax at a 30% rate on a portion of its effectively connected earnings and profits for the taxable year that are attributable to such gain, as adjusted for certain items. A lower rate may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty.

 

A non-U.S. holder described in the second bullet above will be subject to tax at 30% (or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty) on the gain derived from the sale, which gain may be offset by U.S. source capital losses of such non-U.S. holder for the taxable year, provided such non-U.S. holder has timely filed U.S. federal income tax returns with respect to such losses.

 

Each non-U.S. holder should consult its own tax advisor regarding any applicable income tax or other treaties that may provide for different rules.

 

Information Reporting and Backup Withholding

 

Generally, we or an applicable withholding agent must report annually to the IRS the amount of dividends paid to a non-U.S. holder, such non-U.S. holder’s name and address, and the amount of tax withheld, if any. A similar report is sent to such non-U.S. holder. Pursuant to any applicable income tax treaty or other agreement, the IRS may make such report available to the tax authority in such non-U.S. holder’s country of residence.

 

Dividends paid by us (or our paying agent) to a non-U.S. holder may also be subject to backup withholding at a current rate of 24%.

 

Such information reporting and backup withholding requirements may be avoided, however, if such non-U.S. holder establishes an exemption by providing a properly executed, and applicable, IRS Form W-8, or otherwise establishes an exemption. Generally, such information reporting and backup withholding requirements will not apply to a non-U.S. holder where the transaction is effected outside the United States, through a non-U.S. office of a non-U.S. broker. Notwithstanding the foregoing, backup withholding and information reporting may apply, however, if the applicable withholding agent has actual knowledge, or reason to know, that such non-U.S. holder is a U.S. person.

 

Backup withholding is not an additional tax; rather, the U.S. federal income tax liability of persons subject to backup withholding will be reduced by the amount of tax withheld. If withholding results in an overpayment of taxes, a refund or credit may generally be obtained from the IRS, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS in a timely manner.

 

Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA)

 

Sections 1471 to 1474 of the Code, Treasury Regulations issued thereunder and related official IRS guidance, commonly referred to as FATCA, generally impose a U.S. federal withholding tax of 30% on dividends on our common stock paid to a “foreign financial institution” (as defined under FATCA, and which may include banks, traditional financial institutions, investment funds, and certain holding companies), unless such institution enters into an agreement with the U.S. Department of the Treasury to, among other things, identify accounts held by certain “specified United States persons” or “United States-owned foreign entities” (each as defined under FATCA), report annually substantial information about such accounts, and withhold on certain payments to non-compliant foreign financial institutions and certain other account holders. FATCA also generally imposes a U.S. federal withholding tax of 30% on dividends on our common stock paid to a “non-financial foreign entity” (as specially defined under FATCA), unless such entity provides identifying information regarding each direct or indirect “substantial United States owners” (as defined under FATCA), certifies that it does not have any substantial United States owners, or otherwise establishes an exemption. Accordingly, the institution or entity through which our common stock is held will affect the determination of whether such withholding is required.

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The withholding obligations under FATCA generally apply to dividends on our common stock. Such withholding will apply regardless of whether the beneficial owner of the payment otherwise would be exempt from withholding pursuant to an applicable tax treaty with the United States, the Code, or other exemptions described above. Under certain circumstances, a non-U.S. holder might be eligible for refunds or credits of such taxes.

 

Under proposed regulations, FATCA withholding on payments of gross proceeds has been eliminated. These proposed regulations are subject to change.

 

An intergovernmental agreement between the United States and an applicable foreign country may modify the requirements described in this section. Prospective investors are encouraged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the application of FATCA withholding to their investment in, and ownership and disposition of, our common stock.

 

The preceding discussion of U.S. federal tax considerations is for general information only. It is not tax advice to investors in their particular circumstances. Each prospective investor should consult its own tax advisor regarding the particular U.S. federal, state and local and non-U.S. tax consequences of purchasing, holding and disposing of our common stock, including the consequences of any proposed change in applicable laws.

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UNDERWRITING

 

ThinkEquity, a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc., is acting as representative of the underwriters. Subject to the terms and conditions of an underwriting agreement between us and the representative, we have agreed to sell to each underwriter named below, and each underwriter named below has severally agreed to purchase, at the public offering price less the underwriting discounts set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, the number of shares of common stock listed next to its name in the following table:

 

Underwriters     Number of
Shares
 
ThinkEquity, a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc.        
Total        

 

The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the underwriters to pay for and accept delivery of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus are subject to various conditions and representations and warranties, including the approval of certain legal matters by their counsel and other conditions specified in the underwriting agreement. The shares of common stock are offered by the underwriters, subject to prior sale, when, as and if issued to and accepted by them. The underwriters reserve the right to withdraw, cancel or modify the offer to the public and to reject orders in whole or in part. The underwriters are obligated to take and pay for all of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus if any such shares of common stock are taken, other than those shares of common stock covered by the over-allotment option described below.

 

We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against specified liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, and to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make in respect thereof.

 

Over-Allotment Option

 

We have granted a 45-day option to the representative of the underwriters to purchase up to            additional shares of our common stock at a public offering price of $            per share, solely to cover over-allotments, if any. The underwriters may exercise this option for 45 days from the date of this prospectus solely to cover sales of shares of common stock by the underwriters in excess of the total number of shares of common stock set forth in the table above. If any of these additional shares are purchased, the underwriters will offer the additional shares on the same terms as those on which the shares are being offered.

 

Discounts and Commissions

 

The underwriters propose initially to offer the shares of common stock to the public at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and to dealers at those prices less a concession not in excess of $          per share of common stock. If all of the shares of common stock offered by us are not sold at the public offering price, the underwriters may change the offering price and other selling terms by means of a supplement to this prospectus.

 

The following table shows the public offering price, underwriting discounts and commissions and proceeds before expenses to us. The information assumes either no exercise or full exercise of the over-allotment option we granted to the representative of the underwriters.

 

    Per Share     Total Without
Over-
allotment
Option
    Total With
Over-
allotment
Option
 
Public offering price   $       $       $    
Underwriting discount (7%)   $       $       $  
Proceeds, before expenses, to us   $     $       $    
Non-accountable expense allowance (1%)(1)   $       $       $    

 

(1) The non-accountable expense allowance will not be payable with respect to representative’s exercise, if any, of the over-allotment option.

 

We have agreed to pay a non-accountable expense allowance to the representative of the underwriters equal to 1% of the gross proceeds received at the closing of the offering. The non-accountable expense allowance of 1% is not payable with respect to the shares sold upon exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option. We have paid an expense deposit of $25,000 to the representative, which will be applied against the out-of-pocket accountable expenses that will be paid by us to the underwriters in connection with this offering, and will be reimbursed to us to the extent not actually incurred in compliance with FINRA Rule 5110(g)(4)(A).

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We have also agreed to pay certain of the representative’s expenses relating to the offering, including (a) filing fees associated with the review of the offering by FINRA; (b) all fees and expenses relating to the listing of such public securities on the Nasdaq Capital Market, including any fees charges by The Depository Trust for new securities; (c) all fees, expenses and disbursements relating to background checks of our officers and directors in an amount not to exceed $15,000 in the aggregate; (d) all fees, expenses and disbursements relating to the registration or qualification of the shares of our common stock under the “blue sky” securities laws of such states and other jurisdictions as the representative may reasonably designate; (e) all fees, expenses and disbursements relating to the registration, qualification or exemption of the shares of our common stock under the securities laws of such foreign jurisdictions as the representative may reasonably designate; (f) the costs associated with post-closing advertising the offering in the national editions of the Wall Street Journal and New York Times; (g) the costs associated with bound volumes of the public offering materials as well as commemorative mementos and Lucite tombstones, each of which the Company or its designee shall provide within a reasonable time after the closing of this offering in such quantities as the representative may reasonably request in an amount not to exceed $3,000 in the aggregate; (h) the fees and expenses of the Company’s accountants, transfer agents and public relations firm; (i) fees and expenses of the underwriter’s legal counsel not to exceed $125,000; (j) a $29,500 cost associated with the underwriters use of Ipreo’s book-building, prospectus tracking and compliance software for the offering; (k) $10,000 for data services and communications expenses; and (l) up to $20,000 of the underwriters’ actual accountable “road show” expenses for the offering.

 

Our total estimated expenses of the offering, including registration, filing and listing fees, printing fees and legal and accounting expenses, but excluding underwriting discounts and commissions, are approximately $2,683,371.

 

Representative’s Warrants

 

Upon closing of this offering, we have agreed to issue to the representative as compensation warrants to purchase up to 68,182 shares of common stock (5% of the aggregate number of shares of common stock sold in this offering exclusive of the over-allotment option, or the representative’s warrants). The representative’s warrants will be exercisable at a per share exercise price equal to 125% of the public offering price per share in this offering (excluding the over-allotment option). The representative’s warrants are exercisable at any time and from time to time, in whole or in part, during the four and one half year period commencing 180 days from the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.

 

The representative’s warrants have been deemed compensation by FINRA and are therefore subject to a 180-day lock-up pursuant to Rule 5110(e)(1)(A) of FINRA. The representative (or permitted assignees under Rule 5110(e)(1)(A)) will not sell, transfer, assign, pledge, or hypothecate these warrants or the securities underlying these warrants, nor will they engage in any hedging, short sale, derivative, put, or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of the warrants or the underlying securities for a period of 180 days from the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. In addition, the warrants provide for registration rights upon request, in certain cases. The sole demand registration right provided will not be greater than five years from the effective date of the registration statement in compliance with FINRA Rule 5110(g)(8)(C). The piggyback registration rights provided will not be greater than seven years from the effective date of the registration statement in compliance with FINRA Rule 5110(g)(8)(D). We will bear all fees and expenses attendant to registering the securities issuable on exercise of the warrants other than underwriting commissions incurred and payable by the holders. The exercise price and number of shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants may be adjusted in certain circumstances including in the event of a stock dividend or our recapitalization, reorganization, merger or consolidation. However, the warrant exercise price or underlying shares will not be adjusted for issuances of shares of common stock at a price below the warrant exercise price.

 

Lock-Up Agreements

 

Pursuant to “lock-up” agreements, we, our executive officers and directors, and certain stockholders, have agreed, without the prior written consent of the representative not to directly or indirectly, offer to sell, sell, pledge or otherwise transfer or dispose of any of shares of (or enter into any transaction or device that is designed to, or could be expected to, result in the transfer or disposition by any person at any time in the future of) our common stock, enter into any swap or other derivatives transaction that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic benefits or risks of ownership of shares of our common stock, make any demand for or exercise any right or cause to be filed a registration statement, including any amendments thereto, with respect to the registration of any shares of common stock or securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock or any other securities of ours or publicly disclose the intention to do any of the foregoing, subject to customary exceptions, for a period of six months after the date of this prospectus in the case of our directors, executive officers, the Company and any successor of the Company and certain stockholders.

 

Right of First Refusal

 

Until fifteen (15) months from the closing date of this offering, the representative will have an irrevocable right of first refusal, in its sole discretion, to act as sole investment banker, sole book-runner, and/or sole placement agent, at the representative’s sole discretion, for each and every future public and private equity and debt offering, including all equity linked financings, during such fifteen (15) month period, on terms customary to the representative. The representative will have the sole right to determine whether or not any other broker-dealer will have the right to participate in any such offering and the economic terms of any such participation. The representative will not have more than one opportunity to waive or terminate the right of first refusal in consideration of any payment or fee.

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Discretionary Accounts

 

The underwriters do not intend to confirm sales of the shares of common stock offered hereby to any accounts over which they have discretionary authority.

 

Nasdaq Capital Market Listing

 

We intend to apply to have our common stock listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “VEEE.”

 

Determination of Offering Price

 

The public offering price of the securities we are offering was negotiated between us and the underwriters. Factors considered in determining the public offering price of the shares include the history and prospects of the Company, the stage of development of our business, our business plans for the future and the extent to which they have been implemented, an assessment of our management, general conditions of the securities markets at the time of the offering and such other factors as were deemed relevant.

 

Other

 

From time to time, certain of the underwriters and/or their affiliates may in the future provide, various investment banking and other financial services for us for which they may receive customary fees. In the course of their businesses, the underwriters and their affiliates may actively trade our securities or loans for their own account or for the accounts of customers, and, accordingly, the underwriters and their affiliates may at any time hold long or short positions in such securities or loans. Except for services provided in connection with this offering, no underwriter has provided any investment banking or other financial services to us during the 180-day period preceding the date of this prospectus and we do not expect to retain any underwriter to perform any investment banking or other financial services for at least 90 days after the date of this prospectus.

 

Price Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids

 

In connection with this offering, the underwriters may engage in transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of our common stock. Specifically, the underwriters may over-allot in connection with this offering by selling more shares than are set forth on the cover page of this prospectus. This creates a short position in our common stock for its own account. The short position may be either a covered short position or a naked short position. In a covered short position, the number of shares of common stock over-allotted by the underwriters is not greater than the number of shares of common stock that they may purchase in the over-allotment option. In a naked short position, the number of shares of common stock involved is greater than the number of shares common stock in the over-allotment option. To close out a short position, the underwriters may elect to exercise all or part of the over-allotment option. The underwriters may also elect to stabilize the price of our common stock or reduce any short position by bidding for, and purchasing, common stock in the open market.

 

The underwriters may also impose a penalty bid. This occurs when a particular underwriter or dealer repays selling concessions allowed to it for distributing shares of common stock in this offering because the underwriter repurchases the shares of common stock in stabilizing or short covering transactions.

 

Finally, the underwriters may bid for, and purchase, shares of our common stock in market making transactions, including “passive” market making transactions as described below.

 

These activities may stabilize or maintain the market price of our common stock at a price that is higher than the price that might otherwise exist in the absence of these activities. The underwriters are not required to engage in these activities, and may discontinue any of these activities at any time without notice. These transactions may be effected on the national securities exchange on which our shares of common stock are traded, in the over-the-counter market, or otherwise.

 

Indemnification

 

We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against liabilities relating to this offering arising under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, liabilities arising from breaches of some or all of the representations and warranties contained in the underwriting agreement, and to contribute to payments that the underwriters may be required to make for these liabilities.

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Electronic Distribution

 

This prospectus in electronic format may be made available on websites or through other online services maintained by one or more of the underwriters, or by their affiliates. Other than this prospectus in electronic format, the information on any underwriter’s website and any information contained in any other website maintained by an underwriter is not part of this prospectus or the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, has not been approved and/or endorsed by us or any underwriter in its capacity as underwriter, and should not be relied upon by investors.

 

Selling Restrictions

 

No action has been taken in any jurisdiction (except in the United States) that would permit a public offering of our common stock, or the possession, circulation or distribution of this prospectus or any other material relating to us or our common stock in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required. Accordingly, our common stock may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, and this prospectus or any other offering material or advertisements in connection with our common stock may be distributed or published, in or from any country or jurisdiction, except in compliance with any applicable rules and regulations of any such country or jurisdiction.

 

European Economic Area and United Kingdom

 

In relation to each Member State of the European Economic Area and the United Kingdom (each a “Relevant State”), no common stock has been offered or will be offered pursuant to the offering to the public in that Relevant State prior to the publication of a prospectus in relation to the common stock which has been approved by the competent authority in that Relevant State or, where appropriate, approved in another Relevant State and notified to the competent authority in that Relevant State, all in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation, except that offers of shares may be made to the public in that Relevant State at any time under the following exemptions under the Prospectus Regulation:

 

• to legal entities which are qualified investors as defined under the Prospectus Regulation;

 

• by the underwriters to fewer than 150 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Regulation), subject to obtaining the prior consent of the representatives of the underwriters for any such offer; or

 

• in any other circumstances falling within Article 1(4) of the Prospectus Regulation,

 

provided that no such offer of common stock shall result in a requirement for us or any underwriter to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 23 of the Prospectus Regulation.

 

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer of common stock to the public” in relation to any common stock in any Relevant State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and any common stock to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for our common stock, and the expression “Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129.

 

United Kingdom

 

This prospectus has only been communicated or caused to have been communicated and will only be communicated or caused to be communicated as an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act of 2000, or the FSMA) as received in connection with the issue or sale of our common stock in circumstances in which Section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply to us. All applicable provisions of the FSMA will be complied with in respect to anything done in relation to our common stock in, from or otherwise involving the United Kingdom.

 

Canada

 

The shares of common stock may be sold only to purchasers purchasing, or deemed to be purchasing, as principal that are accredited investors, as defined in National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions or subsection 73.3(1) of the Securities Act (Ontario), and are permitted clients, as defined in National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations. Any resale of the securities must be made in accordance with an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the prospectus requirements of applicable securities laws.

 

Securities legislation in certain provinces or territories of Canada may provide a purchaser with remedies for rescission or damages if this prospectus (including any amendment thereto) contains a misrepresentation, provided that the remedies for rescission or damages are exercised by the purchaser within the time limit prescribed by the securities legislation of the purchaser’s province or territory. The purchaser should refer to any applicable provisions of the securities legislation of the purchaser’s province or territory for particulars of these rights or consult with a legal advisor.

 

Pursuant to section 3A.3 of National Instrument 33-105 Underwriting Conflicts, or NI 33-105, the underwriters are not required to comply with the disclosure requirements of NI 33-105 regarding underwriter conflicts of interest in connection with this offering.

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LEGAL MATTERS

 

The validity of the securities being offered by this prospectus will be passed upon for us by Gracin & Marlow, LLP, New York, New York. Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP is acting as counsel for the underwriters.

 

EXPERTS

 

Grassi & Co., CPAs, P.C. (“Grassi”), independent registered public accounting firm, has audited our financial statements at December 31, 2020 and 2019, and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2020, as set forth in their report. We have included our financial statements in the prospectus and elsewhere in the registration statement in reliance on Grassi’s report, given on their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

 

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act with respect to the shares of our common stock offered by this prospectus. This prospectus, which constitutes a part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement, as permitted by the rules and regulations of the SEC. For further information with respect to us and our common stock, we refer you to the registration statement, including the exhibits filed as a part of the registration statement. Statements contained in this prospectus concerning the contents of any contract or any other document are not necessarily complete. If a contract or document has been filed as an exhibit to the registration statement, please see the copy of the contract or document that has been filed. Each statement in this prospectus relating to a contract or document filed as an exhibit is qualified in all respects by the filed exhibit. The SEC also maintains an Internet website that contains the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, as well as the exhibits thereto. These documents, along with future reports, proxy statements and other information about us, are available at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

 

As a result of this offering, we will become subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, as amended, and, in accordance with this law, will file periodic reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. These periodic reports, proxy statements and other information will be available at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. We also maintain a website at www.inhibikase.com. Upon the completion of this offering, you may access these materials free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Information contained on our website is not a part of this prospectus, and the inclusion of our website address in this prospectus is an inactive textual reference only.

 

As a result of this offering, we will become subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, as amended, and, in accordance with this law, will file periodic reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. These periodic reports, proxy statements and other information will be available at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. We also maintain a website www.twinvee.com. Upon the completion of this offering, you may access these materials free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Information contained on our website is not a part of this prospectus, and the inclusion of our website address in this prospectus is an inactive textual reference only.

 

DISCLOSURE OF COMMISSION POSITION ON INDEMNIFICATION

FOR SECURITIES ACT LIABILITIES

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to our directors, officers, and controlling persons, we have been informed that in the opinion of the SEC this indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.

 

 

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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc.    

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
F-2
Audited Financial Statements:    
Balance Sheets for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019   F-3
Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019   F-4
Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity   F-5
Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019   F-6
Notes to Financial Statements   F-7

 

 

F-1

 

 

(GRASSI LOGO)  

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To The Board of Directors and the Stockholders of
Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc.
Fort Pierce, Florida

 

Opinion on the Financial Statement

 

We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc. (the “Company”), which comprise the balance sheets at December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements. In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2020 and 2019 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Auditors’ Responsibility

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB and in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audit, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

 

Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

/s/ GRASSI & CO., CPAs, P.C.

 

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2020.

 

Jericho, New York

March 15, 2021, except for Note 13, as to which date is April 8, 2021

 

 

  (MOORE LOGO)  
50 JERICHO QUADRANGLE, STE. 200, JERICHO, NY 11753
P: 516.336.2450 • F: 516.256.3510 • GRASSICPAS.COM
NEW YORK | NEW JERSEY | MASSACHUSETTS | FLORIDA
AN INDEPENDENT FIRM
ASSOCIATED WITH MOORE
GLOBAL NETWORK LIMITED

F-1

 

TWIN VEE CATAMARANS INCORPORATED
BALANCE SHEETS

 

    December 31,     December 31,  
    2020     2019  
ASSETS                
Current assets:                
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 891,816     $ 215,574  
Inventories, net     936,676       704,156  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets     31,450       12,196  
Total current assets     1,859,942       931,926  
                 
Property and equipment, net     1,365,029       1,325,978  
Operating right of use asset     1,279,595       -  
Total assets   $ 4,504,566     $ 2,257,904  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                
Current liabilities:                
Accounts payable   $ 799,280     $ 863,642  
Accrued liabilities     235,779       160,893  
Contract liability     6,784       71,502  
Warranty reserve     75,000       75,000  
 Capital leases     -       445,760  
 Notes payable - related party     27,850       -  
Liability right of use assets     295,374       -  
Total current liabilities     1,440,067       1,616,797  
                 
Long-term operating lease liabilities     1,015,759       -  
Notes payable - EIDL loan     499,900       -  
Notes Payable - related party     -       525,500  
Total Liabilities     2,955,726       2,142,297  
                 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 14)                
                 
Stockholders’ equity:                
Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized shares 10,000;
Issued and outstanding 100 and 100, respectively
    1       1  
Additional paid-in capital     2,555,386       2,293,230  
Accumulated deficit     (1,006,547 )     (2,177,624 )
Total stockholders’ equity     1,548,840       115,607  
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 4,504,566     $ 2,257,904  

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements

F-2

 

TWIN VEE CATAMARANS INCORPORATED
 STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 

    Years Ended  
    December 31,  
    2020     2019  
Net sales   $ 11,063,619     $ 10,432,517  
Cost of products sold     6,289,316       6,354,968  
Gross Profit     4,774,303       4,077,549  
                 
Costs and expenses:                
Salaries and wages     2,857,773       3,241,981  
Selling and administrative     872,669       786,548  
Professional fees     167,299       95,191  
 Depreciation     155,728       115,056  
Total operating costs     4,053,469       4,238,776  
                 
Income / (Loss) from operations     720,834       (161,227 )
                 
Other income (expense):                
Gain on sale of assets     19,327       -  
Forgiveness of PPP loan     609,500       -  
Interest expense     (178,584 )     (165,468 )
Total other income (expense), net     450,243       (165,468 )
Net income / (loss) before income tax expense     1,171,077       (326,695 )
                 
Net income / (loss)   $ 1,171,077     $ (326,695 )
                 
Basic and diluted income / (loss) per common share   $ 11,711     $ (3,267 )
                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding basic and diluted     100       100  

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements

F-3

 

TWIN VEE CATAMARANS INCORPORATED
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

                Additional           Total  
    Common Stock     Paid-in     Accumulated     Stockholders’  
    Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Equity  
Balance at December 31, 2018     100     $ 1     $ 1,038,736     $ (1,850,929 )   $ (812,192 )
Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2019     -       -       -       (326,695 )     (326,695 )
Capital contribution of advances from parent     -       -       1,254,494       -       1,254,494  
Balance at December 31, 2019     100     $ 1     $ 2,293,230     $ (2,177,624 )   $ 115,607  
                                         
                Additional           Total  
    Common Stock     Paid-in     Accumulated     Stockholders’  
    Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Equity  
Balance at December 31, 2019     100     $ 1     $ 2,293,230     $ (2,177,624 )   $ 115,607  
                                         
Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2020     -       -       -       1,171,077       1,171,077  
Capital contribution of advances from parent     -       -       262,156       -       262,156  
Balance at December 31, 2020     100     $ 1     $ 2,555,386     $ (1,006,547 )   $ 1,548,840  

 

accompanying notes to financial statements

F-4

 

TWIN VEE CATAMARANS INCORPORATED
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

    Years Ended  
    December 31,  
    2020     2019  
Operating activities                
Net income / (loss)   $ 1,171,077     $ (326,695 )
Adjustments to reconcile net income / (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:                
Depreciation and amortization     155,728       115,056  
Gain on disposal of fixed assets     (19,327 )     -  
Amortization of operating right of use asset     307,143       -  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
Accounts receivable     -       74,452  
Inventories     (232,520 )     163,062  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets     (19,254 )     (12,196 )
Other assets     -       10,721  
Accounts payable     (64,362 )     (103,192 )
Accrued expenses     74,886       (6,221 )
Contract Liability     (64,718 )     (64,403 )
Due to related party     -       (119,980 )
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities     1,308,653       (269,396 )
                 
Investing activities                
Proceeds from sale of equipment     349,744       -  
Purchases of property and equipment     (525,196 )     (675,740 )
Net cash used in investing activities     (175,452 )     (675,740 )
                 
Financing activities                
Capital contributions from Parent, net     262,156       1,254,494  
Proceeds from EIDL Loan     499,900       -  
Repayment of note payable related party     (497,650 )     -  
Operating lease liabilities     (275,605 )     (117,533 )
Payment of capital lease obligations     (445,760 )     -  
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities     (456,959 )     1,136,961  
                 
Net increase in cash     676,242       191,825  
Cash at beginning of year     215,574       23,749  
Cash at end of year   $ 891,816     $ 215,574  
                 
Noncash investing and financing activities:                
Operating right of use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities   $ 1,586,738     $ -  

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements

F-5

 

TWIN VEE CATAMARANS, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 2020 AND 2019
 

1. Significant Accounting Policies

 

Organization

 

Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc.. (“Twin Vee” “we”, ‘us” or the “Company”) is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of recreational power catamaran boats. Twin Vee’s home base operations in Fort Pierce, Florida is a 7.5-acre facility with several buildings totaling over 75,000 square feet. We employ approximately 85 people, some of whom have been with the Company for over twenty years. We primarily sell our boats through a current network of 16 independent dealers in 22 locations across North America and the Caribbean, who resell the boats to the end-user Twin Vee customers.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company’s revenue is derived primarily from the sale of boats, motors and trailers, to its independent dealers. The Company recognizes revenue when obligations under the terms of a contract are satisfied and control over promised goods is transferred to the dealer. For the majority of sales, this occurs when the product is released to the carrier responsible for transporting it to a dealer. The Company typically receives payment within five business days of shipment. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration it expects to receive in exchange for a product. The Company offers dealer incentives that include wholesale rebates, retail rebates and promotions, floor plan reimbursement or cash discounts, and other allowances that are recorded as reductions of revenues in net sales in the statements of operations. The consideration recognized represents the amount specified in a contract with a customer, net of estimated incentives the Company reasonably expects to pay. The estimated liability and reduction in revenue for dealer incentives is recorded at the time of sale. Subsequent adjustments to incentive estimates are possible because actual results may differ from these estimates if conditions dictate the need to enhance or reduce sales promotion and incentive programs or if dealer achievement or other items vary from historical trends. Accrued dealer incentives are included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the accompanying balance sheets.

 

The Company accounts for revenue in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 606 which was adopted at the beginning of fiscal year 2018 using the modified retrospective method. The Company did not recognize any cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings upon adoption as the effect was immaterial.

 

Payment received for the future sale of a boat to a customer is recognized as a customer deposit, which is included in contract liabilities on the balance sheet. Customer deposits are recognized as revenue when control over promised goods is transferred to the customer. The customer deposit balance as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, was $6,784 and $71,502 respectively, and is expected to be recognized as revenue within a one-year period.

 

Rebates and Discounts

 

Dealers earn wholesale rebates based on purchase volume commitments and achievement of certain performance metrics. The Company estimates the amount of wholesale rebates based on historical achievement, forecasted volume, and assumptions regarding dealer behavior. Rebates that apply to boats already in dealer inventory are referred to as retail rebates. The Company estimates the amount of retail rebates based on historical data for specific boat models adjusted for forecasted sales volume, product mix, dealer and consumer behavior, and assumptions concerning market conditions. The Company also utilizes various programs whereby it offers cash discounts or agrees to reimburse its dealers for certain floor plan interest costs incurred by dealers for limited periods of time, generally ranging up to nine months.

F-6

 

Shipping and Handling Costs

 

Shipping and handling costs includes those costs incurred to transport product to customers and internal handling costs, which relate to activities to prepare goods for shipment. The Company has elected to account for shipping and handling costs associated with outbound freight after control over a product has transferred to a customer as a fulfillment cost. The Company includes shipping and handling costs, including costs billed to customers, in cost of sales in the statements of operations.

 

Other Revenue Recognition Matters

 

Dealers generally have no right to return unsold boats. Occasionally, the Company may accept returns in limited circumstances and at the Company’s discretion under its warranty policy. The Company may be obligated, in the event of default by a dealer, to accept returns of unsold boats under its repurchase commitment to floor financing providers, who are able to obtain such boats through foreclosure. The repurchase commitment is on an individual unit basis with a term from the date it is financed by the lending institution through the payment date by the dealer, generally not exceeding 30 months.

 

The Company has excluded sales and other taxes assessed by a governmental authority in connection with revenue-producing activities from the determination of the transaction price for all contracts. The Company has not adjusted net sales for the effects of a significant financing component because the period between the transfer of the promised goods and the customer’s payment is expected to be one year or less.

 

Concentrations of Credit and Business Risk

 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk primarily consist of trade receivables. Credit risk on trade receivables is mitigated as a result of the Company’s use of trade letters of credit, dealer floor plan financing arrangements, and the geographically diversified nature of the Company’s customer base. The Company minimizes the concentration of credit risk associated with its cash by maintaining its cash with high quality federally insured financial institutions. However, cash balances in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insured limit of $250,000 are at risk. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company had $320,863 and $0 in excess of FDIC insured limits.

 

Supplier Concentrations

 

The Company is dependent on the ability of its suppliers to provide products on a timely basis and on favorable pricing terms. The loss of certain principal suppliers or a significant reduction in product availability from principal suppliers could have a material adverse effect on the Company. Business risk insurance is in place to mitigate the business risk associated with sole suppliers for sudden disruptions such as those caused by natural disasters.

 

The Company is dependent on third-party equipment manufacturers, distributors, and dealers for certain parts and materials utilized in the manufacturing process. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company purchased all engines for its boats under a supply agreement with a single vendor. Total purchases to this vendor were $1,898,327 and $1,782,606 respectively.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States “U.S. GAAP” requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Included in those estimates are assumptions about allowances for inventory obsolescence, useful life of fixed assets, warranty reserves and bad-debt reserves.

F-7

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase. On December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company did not have any cash equivalents.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The carrying amounts of cash, accounts receivable, prepaid expenses and other assets, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and notes payable to stockholder approximate their fair values as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, because of their short-term natures.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Net realizable value is defined as sales price less cost of completion, disposable and transportation and a normal profit margin. Production costs, consisting of labor and overhead, are applied to ending finished goods inventories at a rate based on estimated production capacity. Excess production costs are charged to cost of products sold. Provisions have been made to reduce excess or obsolete inventories to their net realizable value.

 

Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, except for assets held under capital leases, for which the Company records depreciation and amortization based on the shorter of the asset’s useful life or the term of the lease. The estimated useful lives of property and equipment range from three to five years. Upon sale or retirement, the cost and related accumulated depreciation and amortization are eliminated from their respective accounts, and the resulting gain or loss is included in results of operations. Repairs and maintenance charges, which do not increase the useful lives of the assets, are charged to operations as incurred.

 

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

 

Management assesses the recoverability of its long-lived assets when indicators of impairment are present. If such indicators are present, recoverability of these assets is determined by comparing the undiscounted net cash flows estimated to result from those assets over the remaining life to the assets’ net carrying amounts. If the estimated undiscounted net cash flows are less than the net carrying amount, the assets would be adjusted to their fair value, based on appraisal or the present value of the undiscounted net cash flows.

 

Product Warranty Costs

 

As required by FASB ASC Topic 460, Guarantees, the Company is including the following disclosure applicable to its product warranties.

 

The Company accrues for warranty costs based on the expected material and labor costs to provide warranty replacement products. The methodology used in determining the liability for warranty cost is based upon historical information and experience. The Company’s warranty reserve is calculated as the gross sales multiplied by the historical warranty expense return rate.

F-8

 

The following table shows the changes in the aggregate product warranty liability for the year’s ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively:

 

    2020     2019  
Balance as of beginning of year   $ 75,000     $ 75,000  
Less: Payments made     (63,606 )     (59,668 )
Add: Provision for current years warranty     63,606       59,668  
                 
Balance as of end of year   $ 75,000     $ 75,000  

 

Advertising Costs

 

Advertising and marketing costs are expensed as incurred. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, advertising costs incurred by the Company totaled $28,736 and $19,570, respectively, and are included in selling and administrative expenses in the accompanying statements of operations.

 

Leases

 

The Company adopted FASB Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-02, Leases (“Topic 842”), using the modified retrospective adoption method with an effective date of January 1, 2019. This standard requires all lessees to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability, initially measured at the present value of the lease payments.

 

Under Topic 842, the Company applied a dual approach to all leases whereby the Company is a lessee and classifies leases as either finance or operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase by the Company. Lease classification is evaluated at the inception of the lease agreement.

 

Paycheck Protection Program

 

As U.S. GAAP does not contain authoritative accounting standards for forgivable loans provided by governmental entities to a for-profit entity. Absent authoritative accounting standards, interpretative guidance issued and commonly applied by financial statement preparers allows for the selection of accounting policies amongst acceptable alternatives. Based on the facts and circumstances, the Company determined it most appropriate to account for the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan proceeds as an in-substance government grant by analogy to International Accounting Standards 20 “(IAS 20)”, Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance. Under the provisions of IAS 20, “a forgivable loan from government is treated as a government grant when there is reasonable assurance that the entity will meet the terms for forgiveness of the loan.” IAS 20 does not define “reasonable assurance”; however, based on certain interpretations, it is analogous to “probable” as defined in FASB ASC Subtopic 450-20-20 under U.S. GAAP, which is the definition the Company has applied to its expectations of PPP loan forgiveness. Under IAS 20, government grants are recognized in earnings on a systematic basis over the periods in which the Company recognizes costs for which the grant is intended to compensate (i.e. qualified expenses). Further, IAS 20 permits for the recognition in earnings either (1) separately under a general heading such as other income, or (2) as a reduction of the related expenses. The Company has elected to recognize government grant income separately within other income to present a clearer distinction in its financial statements between its operating income and the amount of net income resulting from the PPP loan and forgiveness.

F-9

 

Income Taxes

 

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, the Company follows the guidance in FASB ASC Topic 740, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes. At December 31, 2020, the Company does not believe it has any uncertain tax positions that would require either recognition or disclosure in the accompanying financial statements.

 

Income or loss and credits from the Company are passed through to their members and reported on the members’ income tax returns. As such, there is no provision for income taxes. If applicable, the Company would recognize interest and penalties associated with tax matters as part of operating expenses and include accrued interest and penalties with the related tax liability in its financial statements.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

All other newly issued accounting pronouncements not yet effective have been deemed either immaterial or not applicable.

 

2. Inventories

 

At December 31, 2020 and 2019 inventories consisted of the following:

 

    2020     2019  
             
Raw materials   $ 763,633     $ 511,166  
Work in process     173,043       192,990  
                 
Total inventory   $ 936,676     $ 704,156  

 

3. Property and Equipment

 

At December 31, 2020 and 2019, property and equipment consisted of the following:

 

    December 31,  
    2020     2019  
             
Machinery and equipment   $ 985,862     $ 1,054,696  
Furniture and fixtures     1,850       1,850  
Leasehold improvements     228,875       109,499  
Software and website development     113,120       101,320  
Computer hardware and software     49,967       49,967  
Boat molds     126,000       126,000  
New model development     146,232       56,462  
      1,651,906       1,499,794  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization     (286,877 )     173,816 )
    $ 1,365,029     $ 1,325,978  

 

Depreciation and amortization expense of property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 is $155,728 and $115,056, respectively.

F-10

 

4. Leases – Related Party

 

Operating right of use assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date. Operating lease liabilities represent the present value of lease payments not yet paid. Operating right of use assets represent our right to use an underlying asset and is based upon the operating lease liabilities adjusted for prepayments or accrued lease payments, initial direct costs, lease incentives, and impairment of operating lease assets. To determine the present value of lease payments not yet paid, we estimate incremental secured borrowing rates corresponding to the maturities of the leases. As we have outstanding secured debt, we used the rate based on loan of 1.67%.

 

Our office lease contains rent escalations over the lease term. We recognize expense for this office lease on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Additionally, tenant incentives used to fund leasehold improvements are recognized when earned and reduce our right-of-use asset related to the lease. These are amortized through the right-of-use asset as reductions of expense over the lease term.

 

The Company leases its office and warehouse facilities, and the land which are located at 3101 S US-1, Fort Pierce, Florida (he “Property”) from Visconti Holdings, LLC. Visconti Holdings, LLC is a single member LLC that holds the ownership of the Property and its sole member is Joseph C Visconti is the CEO and majority shareholder of the Company. The Company entered into the lease on January 1, 2020 and the lease has a term of five years. The current payment is $25,000 per month including property taxes and the lease required a $25,000 security deposit. On January 1, 2021, the Company entered into a revised five-year lease agreement with a monthly rent of $30,000.

 

Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows:

 

        December 31,  
Operating Leases   Classification   2020  
Right-of-use assets   Operating right of use assets   $ 1,279,595  
             
Current lease liabilities   Current operating lease liabilities     295,374  
Non current lease liabilities   Long-term operating lease liabilities     1,015,759  
Total lease liabilities       $ 1,311,133  

 

Lease term and discount rate were as follows:

 

    December 31,  
    2020  
Weighted average remaining lease term (years)     4.0  
Weighted average discount rate     1.67 %

 

    Year ended
December 31,
 
    2020  
Operating lease cost   $ 303,910  
Variable lease cost (1)        
Total lease costs   $ 303,910  

 

(1) Variable lease cost primarily relates to common area maintenance, property taxes and insurance on leased real estate.

F-11

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information related to leases were as follows:

 

    December 31,  
    2020  
Cash paid for operating lease liabilities   $ 300,000  
Operating right of use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities   $ 1,311,133  

 

Maturities of lease liabilities were as follows as of December 31, 2020:

 

    Operating  
    Leases  
2021   $ 315,000  
2022     330,750  
2023     347,287  
2024     364,652  
Total     1,357,689  
Less: Imputed interest     (46,556 )
Present value of lease liabilities   $ 1,311,133  

 

5. Accrued Liabilities

 

At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, accrued liabilities consisted of the following:

 

    2020     2019  
Accrued wages and benefits   $ 60,988     $ 77,368  
Accrued expenses relating to vendors and others     92,843       48,562  
Interest     62,317       31,530  
Other     19,631       3,436  
    $ 235,779     $ 160,896  

 

6. Notes Payable – Related Party

 

At December 31,2018, the Company entered into a loan and promissory note with Joseph C. Visconti, the CEO and majority shareholder of the Company. The principal amount of the loan was $525,500, together with a simple interest rate of 6% on the balance of principal remaining unpaid. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company repaid $497,650 and $0, respectively. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the outstanding amount of the note payable was $27,850 and $525,500, respectively. Accrued interest at December 31, 2020 and 2019, amounted to $62,317 and $31,530, respectively. Subsequent to year end, the note has been paid in full.

F-12

 

7. Capital Lease Obligations

 

The Company’s property under capital leases, which is included in property and equipment, is summarized as follows at December 31:

 

    2020     2019  
Equipment   $ -     $ 444,314  
Less - accumulated depreciation     -       (55,901 )
Net Book Value   $ -     $ 388,413  

 

The capital leases require monthly payments ranging from $1,066 to $9,629 with interest rates ranging from 4.83% to 5.67% through October 2024. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company paid off the capital lease balance of $455,760.

 

8. Notes Payable – Paycheck Protection Program

 

In response to the coronavirus disease (“Covid-19”) COVID-19 pandemic, the PPP was established under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act and administered by the SBA. Companies who met the eligibility requirements set forth by the PPP could qualify for PPP loans. If the loan proceeds are fully utilized to pay qualified expenses, the full principal amount of the PPP loan, along with any accrued interest, may qualify for loan forgiveness, subject to potential reduction based on the level of full-time employees maintained by the organization.

 

On April 17, 2020, the Company, in coordination with its parent, Twin Vee Powercats, Inc., received a loan of $609,500 under the PPP provided by Suntrust/Truist Bank. The loan bears interest at 1.0%, with principal and interest payments deferred for the first six months of the loan. After that, the loan and interest would be paid back over a period of 18 months, if the loan is not forgiven under the terms of the PPP. Funds from the loan may only be used for payroll costs, costs used to continue group health care benefits, mortgage payments, rent, utilities, and interest on other debt obligations incurred before February 15, 2020. When it applied for the loan, the Company believed it would qualify to have the loan forgiven under the terms of the PPP, and therefore considered the loan to be substantively a conditional government grant to be accounted for using an analogy to IAS 20. The Company performed the calculations, applied for, and received PPP loan forgiveness on November 13, 2020.

 

As the Company received its loan forgiveness prior to December 31, 2020, it has recognized PPP grant income for the full amount of the PPP loan, $609,500, and no liability for the PPP loan is reflected in the balance sheet as of December 31, 2020.

 

9. Notes Payable – SBA EIDL Loan

 

On April 22, 2020, the Company, in coordination with its parent, Twin Vee Powercats, Inc., received an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) in the amount of $499,900. The loan in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The loan is a 30-year loan with an interest rate of 3.75%, monthly payments of $2,437 to begin April 22, 2021, under the EIDL program, which is administered through the Small Business Administration (“SBA”). Under the guidelines of the EIDL, the maximum term is 30 years; however, terms are determined on a case-by-case basis based on each borrower’s ability to repay and carry an interest rate of 3.75%. The EIDL loan may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties. The proceeds from this loan must be used solely as working capital to alleviate economic injury caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

F-13

 

As part of the EIDL loan, the Company granted the SBA a continuing security interest in and to any and all collateral to secure payment and performance of all debts, liabilities and obligations of the Company to the SBA under the EIDL loan. The collateral includes substantially all tangible and intangible personal property of the Company.

 

10. Commitments and Contingencies

 

Repurchase Obligations

 

Under certain conditions, the Company is obligated to repurchase new inventory repossessed from dealerships by financial institutions that provide credit to the Company’s dealers. See Note 1 for more information regarding the terms and accounting policies related to this obligation. The maximum obligation of the Company under such floor plan agreements totaled approximately $1,790,000 and $2,473,000 as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. We incurred no impact from repurchase events during the years ended December 31, 2020, and 2019,

 

Covid-19

 

The COVID-19 outbreak in the United States has caused business disruption through mandated and voluntary closings of multiple industries. While disruption is currently expected to be temporary, there is considerable uncertainty regarding the duration of the closings. The extent to which COVID-19 impacts future results, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information which may emerge concerning the severity of the coronavirus and the action to contain it or treat its impact, among others. At this time, the Company cannot estimate with meaningful precision the potential impact to its financial and operational results.

 

Litigation
 

The Company is currently involved in civil various civil litigation in the normal course of business none of which is considered material.

 

11. Related Party Transactions

 

As discussed in note 4, the Company has leased its facilities from its CEO and majority shareholder. Additionally, as discussed in note 6, the Company has a promissory note with its CEO and majority shareholder.

 

12. Major Customers

 

During the year ended December 31, 2020, sales from one customer represented 11%, total sales. During the year ended December 31, 2019, sales from four customers represented 16%, 15%, 12%, and 12% for a total of 56% of sales. The loss of business from one or a combination of the Company’s significant customers, or an unexpected deterioration in their financial condition, could adversely affect the Company’s operations.

 

13. Subsequent Events

 

The Company has evaluated all events or transactions that occurred after December 31, 2020 through March 15, 2021 which is the date that the financial statements were available to be issued. During this period, there were no material subsequent events requiring disclosure, except as noted below.

 

On January 1, 2021, the Company entered into a revised five-year lease agreement with a monthly rent of $30,000 with an entity controlled by the Company’s CEO and majority shareholder, Joseph C. Visconti.

 

On April 8, 2021, the Company changed its name to Twin Vee PowerCats Co. and converted from a Florida corporation to a Delaware corporation. Also on April 8, 2021, the Company adopted the 2021 Stock Incentive Plan in which it earmarked certain shares for future issuances of share-based compensation to employees. 

F-14

 

 

 

[        ] Shares of Common Stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Twin Vee PowerCats Co.

 

 

 

 

 

 
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS
 

 

 

 

 

 

ThinkEquity
a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

, 2021

 

 

 

Through and including                   , 2021 (the 25th day after the date of this offering), all dealers effecting transactions in these securities, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This is in addition to a dealer’s obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as an underwriter and with respect to an unsold allotment or subscription.

 

 

 

 

PART II

 

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN THE PROSPECTUS

 

Item 13. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution

 

The following table sets forth the expenses to be incurred in connection with the offering described in this Registration Statement, other than underwriting discounts and commissions, all of which will be paid by us. All amounts are estimates except the SEC’s registration fee, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.’s filing fee and the Nasdaq listing fee.

 

    Amount to be Paid  
SEC Registration Fee   $    
FINRA filing fee        
Nasdaq listing fee        
Printing and engraving expenses        
Legal fees and expenses        
Accounting fees and expenses        
Transfer agent and registrar fees        
Miscellaneous expenses        
Total   $    

 

Item 14. Indemnification of Directors and Officers

 

Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law empowers a corporation to indemnify its directors and officers and to purchase insurance with respect to liability arising out of their capacity or status as directors and officers, provided that the person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in our best interests, and, with respect to any criminal action, had no reasonable cause to believe the person’s actions were unlawful. The Delaware General Corporation Law further provides that the indemnification permitted thereunder shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which the directors and officers may be entitled under the corporation’s bylaws, any agreement, a vote of stockholders or otherwise. The certificate of incorporation of the registrant to be in effect upon the completion of this offering provides for the indemnification of the registrant’s directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted under the Delaware General Corporation Law. In addition, the bylaws of the registrant to be in effect upon the completion of this offering require the registrant to fully indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding (whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative) by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the registrant, or is or was a director or officer of the registrant serving at the registrant’s request as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorney’s fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law.

 

Section 102(b)(7) of the Delaware General Corporation Law permits a corporation to provide in its certificate of incorporation that a director of the corporation shall not be personally liable to the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except (i) for any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders; (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law; (iii) for payments of unlawful dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions; or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. The registrant’s certificate of incorporation to be in effect upon the completion of this offering provides that the registrant’s directors shall not be personally liable to it or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director and that if the Delaware General Corporation Law is amended to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of the registrant’s directors shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law, as so amended.

 

As permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law, the registrant has entered into separate indemnification agreements with each of the registrant’s directors and certain of the registrant’s officers which require the registrant, among other things, to indemnify them against certain liabilities which may arise by reason of their status as directors, officers or certain other employees.

 

The registrant expects to obtain and maintain insurance policies under which its directors and officers are insured, within the limits and subject to the limitations of those policies, against certain expenses in connection with the defense of, and certain liabilities which might be imposed as a result of, actions, suits or proceedings to which they are parties by reason of being or having been directors or officers. The coverage provided by these policies may apply whether or not the registrant would have the power to indemnify such person against such liability under the provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law.

II-1

 

 

These indemnification provisions and the indemnification agreements entered into between the registrant and the registrant’s officers and directors may be sufficiently broad to permit indemnification of the registrant’s officers and directors for liabilities (including reimbursement of expenses incurred) arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

The proposed form of underwriting agreement between the registrant and the representative of the underwriters to be filed as Exhibit 1.1 to this registration statement provides for the indemnification by the underwriters of the registrant’s directors and officers and certain controlling persons against specified liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act with respect to information provided by the underwriters specifically for inclusion in the registration statement.

 

Item 15. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

 

None.

 

Item 16. Exhibit and Financial Statement Schedules

 

(a) Exhibits.

 

The exhibit index attached hereto is incorporated herein by reference.

 

(b) Financial Statement Schedules.

 

(a) Exhibits. See the Exhibit Index immediately preceding the signature pages hereto, which is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

 

II-2

 

 

Item 17. Undertakings

 

The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:

 

(1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:

 

(i) To include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933;

 

(ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the “Calculation of Registration Fee” table in the effective registration statement.

 

(iii) To include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement;

 

(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

(3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.

 

(4) That, for the purpose of determining liability of the registrant under the Securities Act of 1933 to any purchaser in the initial distribution of the securities, that in a primary offering of securities of the undersigned registrant pursuant to this registration statement, regardless of the underwriting method used to sell the securities to the purchaser, if the securities are offered or sold to such purchaser by means of any of the following communications, the undersigned registrant will be a seller to the purchaser and will be considered to offer or sell such securities to such purchaser:

 

a. Any preliminary prospectus or prospectus of the undersigned registrant relating to the offering required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424 (§ 230.424 of this chapter);

 

b. Any free writing prospectus relating to the offering prepared by or on behalf of the undersigned registrant or used or referred to by the undersigned registrant;

 

c. The portion of any other free writing prospectus relating to the offering containing material information about the undersigned registrant or its securities provided by or on behalf of the undersigned registrant; and

 

d. Any other communication that is an offer in the offering made by the undersigned registrant to the purchaser.

II-3

 

(5) That, insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

 

(6) That, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b) (1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.

 

(7) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

II-4

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this amendment to the registration statement on Form S-1 to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Ft. Pierce, State of Florida, on the 8th day of April, 2021.

 

  TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.
     
  By: /s/ Joseph C. Visconti 
  Name:  Joseph C. Visconti
  Title: Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
    (Principal Executive Officer)

 

POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

KNOW ALL BY THESE PRESENTS that each individual whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Joseph C. Visconti our true and lawful attorneys and agents with full power of substitution and resubstitution, with full power to sign for us, and in our names in the capacities indicated below, any and all amendments to this registration statement, any subsequent registration statements pursuant to Rule 462 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorney-in-fact and agent, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact and agent, or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. This power of attorney may be executed in counterparts.

  

Signature   Title   Date
         
/s/ Joseph C. Visconti    Chief Executive Officer, President and Director   April 8, 2021
Joseph C. Visconti        
         
/s/ Donna Barnett    Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)   April 8, 2021
Donna Barnett        
         
/s/ Preston Yarborough    Vice President and Director   April 8, 2021
Preston Yarborough        
         
/s/ Pete Melvin    Director   April 8, 2021
Pete Melvin        
         
/s/ Neil Ross    Director   April 8, 2021
Neil Ross        
         
         
/s/ Steven A. Shallcross    Director   April 8, 2021
Steven A. Shallcross        

II-5

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
No.
  Description of Exhibit

1.1**

  Form of Underwriting Agreement by and between Twin Vee Powercats Co. and ThinkEquity, a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc., as representative of the underwriters, dated [ ], 2021
3.1*   Articles of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Florida, dated December 1, 2009

3.2*

  Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation, filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Florida on
January 22, 2016

3.3*

  Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation, filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Florida on April 12, 2016
3.4*   Article of Conversion filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Florida, dated April 7, 2021
3.5*  

Certificate of Conversion filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 7, 2021

3.6*   Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 7, 2021
3.7*   Bylaws
5.1**   Opinion of Gracin & Marlow, LLP

10.1*#

  Twin Vee PowerCats Co. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan and form of Incentive Plan Option Agreement, Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, and Restricted Stock Unit Agreement.

10.2*

  Inventory Blanket Repurchase Agreement by and between Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc and Bank of the West, dated January 12, 2017

10.3*

  Lease Agreement, by and among Visconti Holdings, LLC, Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc. and Twin Vee Powercats, Inc., dated January 1, 2021
10.4*  

SBA Loan Authorization and Agreement, dated April 21, 2020, with Twin Vee Powercats, Inc.

21.1*   List of Subsidiaries of the Registrant
23.1*   Consent of Grassi & Co., CPAs, P.C., Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
23.2**   Consent of Gracin & Marlow, LLP (contained in Exhibit 5.1)
24.1*   Power of Attorney (included on the signature page of this initial Registration Statement)

 

* Filed herewith
** To be filed by amendment
  # Indicates a contract, compensatory plan or arrangement to which a director or executive officer is a party or in which one or more directors or executive officers are eligible to participate.

 

II-6

 

 

 

Exhibit 3.1

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

4

 

 

5

 

 

 

Exhibit 3.2

 

 

1

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

4

 


Exhibit 3.3 

 

 

1

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

Exhibit 3.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 3.5

 

 

 

Exhibit 3.6

 

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

 
OF

 
TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.

  

The undersigned, for the purpose of organizing a corporation to conduct the business and promote the purposes hereinafter stated, under the provisions and subject to the requirements of the laws of the State of Delaware hereby certifies that:

 

ARTICLE I

NAME

 

The name of this Corporation is Twin Vee PowerCats Co. (the “Corporation”).

 

ARTICLE II

REGISTERED OFFICE AND AGENT

 

The registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware shall be established and maintained at the office of The Corporation Trust Company, 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801, County of New Castle, and The Corporation Trust Company shall be the registered agent of the Corporation in charge thereof.

 

ARTICLE III

PURPOSE

 

The purpose of this Corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which a Corporation may be organized under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware or any applicable successor act thereto, as the same may be amended from time to time (“DGCL”).

 

ARTICLE IV

CAPITAL STOCK

 

A.       This Corporation is authorized to issue two classes of stock to be designated, respectively, “Common Stock” and “Preferred Stock.” The total number of shares which the Corporation is authorized to issue is Sixty Million (60,000,000) shares. Fifty Million (50,000,000) shares shall be Common Stock, each having a par value of $0.001; and Ten Million (10,000,000) shares shall be Preferred Stock, each having a par value of $0.001.

 

B.       The Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time in one or more series. The Board of Directors is hereby expressly authorized to provide for the issue of all of any of the shares of the Preferred Stock in one or more series, and to fix the number of shares and to determine or alter for each such series, such voting powers, full or limited, or no voting powers, and such designation, preferences, and relative, participating, optional, or other rights and such qualifications, limitations, or restrictions thereof, as shall be stated and expressed in the resolution or resolutions adopted by the Board of Directors providing for the issuance of such shares and as may be permitted by the DGCL. The Board of Directors is also expressly authorized to increase or decrease the number of shares of any series subsequent to the issuance of shares of that series, but not below the number of shares of such series then outstanding. In case the number of shares of any series shall be decreased in accordance with the foregoing sentence, the shares constituting such decrease shall resume the status that they had prior to the adoption of the resolution originally fixing the number of shares of such series. The number of authorized shares of Preferred Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power of the stock of the Corporation entitled to vote thereon, without a separate vote of the holders of the Preferred Stock, or of any series thereof, unless a vote of any such holders is required pursuant to the terms of any certificate of designation filed with respect to any series of Preferred Stock.

 

1

 

 

 

C.       Shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time as the Board of Directors shall determine, and on such terms and for such consideration as shall be fixed by the Board of Directors.

 

 

ARTICLE V

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

For the management of the business and for the conduct of the affairs of the Corporation, and in further definition, limitation and regulation of the powers of the Corporation, of its directors and of its stockholders or any class thereof, as the case may be, it is further provided that:

 

A.       Board of Directors. The management of the business and the conduct of the affairs of the Corporation shall be vested in its Board of Directors. The number of directors which shall constitute the Board of Directors shall be fixed exclusively by resolutions adopted by a majority of the authorized number of directors constituting the Board of Directors. In no event shall the number of directors be less than the minimum prescribed by law. The directors of the Corporation need not be elected by written ballot unless the Bylaws so provide. Directors need not be stockholders of the Corporation.

 

B.        Election of Board of Directors. Subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock to elect directors under specified circumstances, the Board of Directors shall be and is divided into three classes, designated Class I, Class II and Class III. Each class shall consist, as nearly as may be possible, of one third of the total number of directors constituting the entire Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is authorized to assign members of the Board of Directors already in office to Class I, Class II or Class III at the time such classification becomes effective.

 

Subject to the rights of holders of any series of Preferred Stock to elect directors under specified circumstances, each director shall serve for a term ending on the date of the third annual meeting of stockholders following the annual meeting of stockholders at which such director was elected; provided that each director initially assigned to Class I shall serve for a term expiring at the Corporation’s first annual meeting of stockholders held after the effectiveness of this Certificate of Incorporation; each director initially assigned to Class II shall serve for a term expiring at the Corporation’s second annual meeting of stockholders held after the effectiveness of this Certificate of Incorporation; and each director initially assigned to Class III shall serve for a term expiring at the Corporation’s third annual meeting of stockholders held after the effectiveness of this Certificate of Incorporation; provided further, that the term of each director shall continue until the election and qualification of his or her successor and be subject to his or her earlier death, disqualification, resignation or removal.

 

C.       Removal of Directors. The Board of Directors or any individual director may be removed from office at any time (1) with cause by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least Sixty Percent (60%) of the voting power of all the then-outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation, entitled to vote at an election of directors; or (2) without cause by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least Sixty Percent (60%) of the voting power of all the then-outstanding shares of the capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally at an election of directors.

2

 

 

D.       Vacancies. Subject to any limitations imposed by applicable law and subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock, any vacancies on the Board of Directors resulting from death, resignation, disqualification, removal or other causes and any newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the number of directors, shall, unless the Board of Directors determines by resolution that any such vacancies or newly created directorships shall be filled by the stockholders and except as otherwise provided by applicable law, be filled only by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office, even though less than a quorum of the Board of Directors, and not by the stockholders. Any director elected in accordance with the preceding sentence shall hold office for the remainder of the full term of the director for which the vacancy was created or occurred and until such director’s successor shall have been elected and qualified.

 

E.       Bylaw Amendments. The Board of Directors is expressly empowered to adopt, amend or repeal the Bylaws of the Corporation. Any adoption, amendment or repeal of the Bylaws of the Corporation by the Board of Directors shall require the approval of a majority of the authorized number of directors. The stockholders shall also have power to adopt, amend or repeal the Bylaws of the Corporation; provided, however, that, in addition to any vote of the holders of any class or series of stock of the Corporation required by law or by this Certificate of Incorporation, such action by stockholders shall require the affirmative vote of the holders of at least sixty-six and two-thirds percent (66 2/3%) of the voting power of all of the then-outstanding shares of the capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in the election or directors, voting together as a single class.

 

F.       Director Election. The directors of the Corporation need not be elected by written ballot unless the Bylaws so provide.

 

G.       Stockholder Action. No action shall be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation except at an annual or special meeting of stockholders called in accordance with the Bylaws. Advance notice of stockholder nominations for the election of directors and of business to be brought by stockholders before any meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation shall be given in the manner provided in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

 

H.       Committees of the Board. Pursuant to the Bylaws the Board may establish one or more committees of the Board to which may be delegated any or all of the powers and duties of the Board to the full extent permitted by law.

 

ARTICLE VI

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION

 

A.       Liability of Directors. The liability of the directors for monetary damages shall be eliminated to the fullest extent under applicable law.

 

B.       Indemnification. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Corporation is authorized to provide indemnification of (and advancement of expenses to) directors, officers and agents of the Corporation (and any other persons to which applicable law permits the Corporation to provide indemnification) through Bylaw provisions, agreements with such agents or other persons, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise in excess of the indemnification and advancement otherwise permitted by such applicable law. If applicable law is amended after approval by the stockholders of this Article VI to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of a director to the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law as so amended.

 

3

 

C.       Repeal or Modification. Any repeal or modification of this Article VI shall only be prospective and shall not affect the rights or protections or increase the liability of any director under this Article VI in effect at the time of the alleged occurrence of any act or omission to act giving rise to liability or indemnification.

 

ARTICLE VII

FORUM FOR ADJUDICATION OF DISPUTES

 

Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be the sole and exclusive forum for (1) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation; (2) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or other employee of the Corporation to the Corporation or the Corporation’s stockholders; (3) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation or any director or officer or other employee of the Corporation arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL, the Corporation’s Certificate of Incorporation or the Bylaws of the Corporation; or (4) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation or any director or officer or other employee of the Corporation governed by the internal affairs doctrine. The choice of the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware as the sole and exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation shall not apply to suits to enforce a duty or liability created by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring or holding any interest in shares of capital stock of the Corporation shall be deemed to have notice of and consented to the provisions of this Article VII.

 

ARTICLE VIII

AMENDMENT

 

The Corporation reserves the right to amend, alter, change or repeal any provision contained in this Certificate of Incorporation, in the manner now or hereafter prescribed by statute, and all rights conferred upon the stockholders herein are granted subject to this reservation.

 

 

ARTICLE IX

INCORPORATOR

 

The name and mailing address of the incorporator of the Corporation are as follows: Hank Gracin, Gracin & Marlow, LLP, The Chrysler Building, 405 Lexington Avenue, 26th Floor, New York, New York 10174.

 

 

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[Signature Page Follows]

 

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I, the undersigned incorporator, for the purpose of forming a corporation under the laws of the State of Delaware, do make, file and record this Certificate of Incorporation, and do certify that the facts herein stated are true, and I have accordingly hereunto set my hand this 7th day of April, 2021.

 

  CREATED BY READIRIS, COPYRIGHT IRIS 2005

_________________________________
Hank Gracin

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[Signature Page to Twin Vee PowerCats Co. Certification of Incorporation]

 

 

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BYLAWS OF

 

Twin Vee PowerCats Co.

 

 
 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

      Page
       
ARTICLE I — CORPORATE OFFICES   1
       
1.1. REGISTERED OFFICE   1
       
1.2. OTHER OFFICES   1
       
ARTICLE II — MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS   1
       
2.1. PLACE OF MEETINGS   1
       
2.2. ANNUAL MEETING   1
       
2.3. SPECIAL MEETING   1
       
2.4. ADVANCE NOTICE PROCEDURES   2
       
2.5. NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETINGS   6
       
2.6. QUORUM   6
       
2.7. ADJOURNED MEETING; NOTICE   7
       
2.8. CONDUCT OF BUSINESS   7
       
2.9. VOTING   7
       
2.10. STOCKHOLDER ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT WITHOUT A MEETING   8
       
2.11. RECORD DATES   8
       
2.12. PROXIES   9
       
2.13. LIST OF STOCKHOLDERS ENTITLED TO VOTE   9
       
2.14. INSPECTORS OF ELECTION   10
       
ARTICLE III —DIRECTORS   10
       
3.1. POWERS   10
       
3.2. NUMBER OF DIRECTORS   10
       
3.3. ELECTION, QUALIFICATION AND TERM OF OFFICE OF DIRECTORS   10
       
3.4. RESIGNATION AND VACANCIES   11

 

 
 

 

3.5. PLACE OF MEETINGS; MEETINGS BY TELEPHONE   11
       
3.6. REGULAR MEETINGS   12
       
3.7. SPECIAL MEETINGS; NOTICE   12
       
3.8. QUORUM; VOTING   12
       
3.9. BOARD ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT WITHOUT A MEETING   13
       
3.10. FEES AND COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS   13
       
3.11. REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS   13
       
ARTICLE IV — COMMITTEES   13
       
4.1. COMMITTEES OF DIRECTORS   13
       
4.2. COMMITTEE MINUTES   13
       
4.3. MEETINGS AND ACTION OF COMMITTEES   14
       
4.4. SUBCOMMITTEES   14
       
4.5. POWERS DENIED TO COMMITTEES   14
       
ARTICLE V — OFFICERS   15
       
5.1. OFFICERS   15
       
5.2. COMPENSATION OF OFFICERS   15
       
5.3. APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS   15
       
5.4. SUBORDINATE OFFICERS   15
       
5.5. REMOVAL AND RESIGNATION OF OFFICERS   15
       
5.6. VACANCIES IN OFFICES   16
       
5.7. REPRESENTATION OF SHARES OF OTHER CORPORATIONS   16
       
5.8. AUTHORITY AND DUTIES OF OFFICERS   16
       
ARTICLE VI — STOCK   17
       
6.1. STOCK CERTIFICATES; PARTLY PAID SHARES   17
       
6.2. SPECIAL DESIGNATION ON CERTIFICATES   18
       
6.3. LOST, STOLEN OR DESTROYED CERTIFICATES   18

 

 
 

 

6.4. DIVIDENDS   19
       
6.5. TRANSFER OF STOCK   19
       
6.6. STOCK TRANSFER AGREEMENTS   19
       
6.7. REGISTERED STOCKHOLDERS   19
       
6.8. FRACTIONAL SHARE INTERESTS   20
       
ARTICLE VII — MANNER OF GIVING NOTICE AND WAIVER   20
       
7.1. NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETINGS   20
       
7.2. NOTICE BY ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION   20
       
7.3. NOTICE TO STOCKHOLDERS SHARING AN ADDRESS   21
       
7.4. NOTICE TO PERSON WITH WHOM COMMUNICATION IS UNLAWFUL   21
       
7.5. WAIVER OF NOTICE   22
       
ARTICLE VIII — INDEMNIFICATION   22
       
8.1. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS IN THIRD PARTY PROCEEDINGS   22
       
8.2. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS IN ACTIONS BY OR IN THE RIGHT OF THE CORPORATION   22
       
8.3. SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE   23
       
8.4. INDEMNIFICATION OF OTHERS   23
       
8.5. ADVANCED PAYMENT OF EXPENSES   23
       
8.6. LIMITATION ON INDEMNIFICATION   23
       
8.7. DETERMINATION; CLAIM   24
       
8.8. NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS   25
       
8.9. INSURANCE   25
       
8.10. SURVIVAL   25
       
8.11. EFFECT OF REPEAL OR MODIFICATION   25
       
8.12. CERTAIN DEFINITIONS   25

 

 
 

 

ARTICLE IX — GENERAL MATTERS   26
       
9.1. CONFLICT OF INTEREST   26
       
9.2. EXECUTION OF CORPORATE CONTRACTS AND INSTRUMENTS   26
       
9.3. CHECKS, DRAFTS AND NOTES   26
       
9.4. FISCAL YEAR   27
       
9.5. SEAL   27
       
9.6. CONSTRUCTION; DEFINITIONS   27
       
9.7. GENERAL POWERS   27

 

 
 

 

BYLAWS OF Twin Vee PowerCats Co.

 

ARTICLE I — CORPORATE OFFICES

 

1.1.          REGISTERED OFFICE

 

The registered office of Twin Vee PowerCats Co. shall be fixed in the corporation’s certificate of incorporation. References in these bylaws to the certificate of incorporation shall mean the certificate of incorporation of the corporation, as amended from time to time, including the terms of any certificate of designations of any series of Preferred Stock.

 

1.2.          OTHER OFFICES

 

The corporation’s board of directors may at any time establish other offices at any place or places where the corporation is qualified to do business.

 

ARTICLE II — MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS

 

2.1.          PLACE OF MEETINGS

 

Meetings of stockholders shall be held at any place, within or outside the State of Delaware, designated by the board of directors. The board of directors may, in its sole discretion, determine that a meeting of stockholders shall not be held at any place, but may instead be held solely by means of remote communication as authorized by Section 211(a)(2) of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”). In the absence of any such designation or determination, stockholders’ meetings shall be held at the corporation’s principal executive office.

 

2.2.          ANNUAL MEETING

 

The annual meeting of stockholders shall be held on such date, at such time, and at such place (if any) within or without the State of Delaware as shall be designated from time to time by the board of directors and stated in the corporation’s notice of the meeting. At the annual meeting, directors shall be elected and any other proper business may be transacted.

 

2.3.          SPECIAL MEETING

 

(i)               A special meeting of the stockholders, other than those required by statute, may be called at any time only by (A) the direction of a majority of the board of directors, (B) the chairperson of the board of directors, (C) the chief executive officer or (D) the president (in the absence of a chief executive officer). A special meeting of the stockholders may not be called by any other person or persons. The board of directors may cancel, postpone or reschedule any previously scheduled special meeting at any time, before or after the notice for such meeting has been sent to the stockholders.

 

(ii)              The notice of a special meeting shall include the purpose for which the meeting is called. Only such business shall be conducted at a special meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting by or at the direction of the board of directors, the chairperson of the board of directors, the chief executive officer or the president (in the absence of a chief executive officer). Nothing contained in this Section 2.3(ii) shall be construed as limiting, fixing or affecting the time when a meeting of stockholders called by action of the board of directors may be held.

 

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2.4.          ADVANCE NOTICE PROCEDURES

 

(i)            Advance Notice of Stockholder Business. At an annual meeting of the stockholders, only such business shall be conducted as shall have been properly brought before the meeting. To be properly brought before an annual meeting, business must be brought: (A) pursuant to the corporation’s proxy materials with respect to such meeting, (B) by or at the direction of a majority of the board of directors, or (C) by a stockholder of the corporation who (1) is a stockholder of record at the time of the giving of the notice required by this Section 2.4(i) and on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the annual meeting and (2) has timely complied in proper written form with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 2.4(i). In addition, for business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder, such business must be a proper matter for stockholder action pursuant to these bylaws and applicable law. Except for proposals properly made in accordance with Rule 14a-8 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “1934 Act”) and the rules and regulations thereunder (as so amended and inclusive of such rules and regulations), and included in the notice of meeting given by or at the direction of the board of directors, for the avoidance of doubt, clause (C) above shall be the exclusive means for a stockholder to bring business before an annual meeting of stockholders.

 

(a)          To comply with clause (C) of Section 2.4(i) above, a stockholder’s notice must set forth all information required under this Section 2.4(i) and must be timely received by the secretary of the corporation. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice must be received by the secretary at the principal executive offices of the corporation not later than the 45th day nor earlier than the 75th day before the one-year anniversary of the date on which the corporation first mailed its proxy materials or a notice of availability of proxy materials (whichever is earlier) for the preceding year’s annual meeting; provided, however, that in the event that no annual meeting was held in the previous year or if the date of the annual meeting is advanced by more than 30 days prior to or delayed by more than 60 days after the one-year anniversary of the date of the previous year’s annual meeting, then, for notice by the stockholder to be timely, it must be so received by the secretary not earlier than the close of business on the 120th day prior to such annual meeting and not later than the close of business on the later of (i) the 90th day prior to such annual meeting, or (ii) the tenth day following the day on which Public Announcement (as defined below) of the date of such annual meeting is first made. In no event shall any adjournment or postponement of an annual meeting or the announcement thereof commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholder’s notice as described in this Section 2.4(i)(a). “Public Announcement” shall mean disclosure in a press release reported by the Dow Jones News Service, Associated Press or a comparable national news service or in a document publicly filed by the corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15(d) of the 1934 Act.

 

(b)           To be in proper written form, a stockholder’s notice to the secretary must set forth as to each matter of business the stockholder intends to bring before the annual meeting: (1) a brief description of the business intended to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting, (2) the name and address, as they appear on the corporation’s books, of the stockholder proposing such business and any Stockholder Associated Person (as defined below), (3) the class and number of shares of the corporation that are held of record or are beneficially owned by the stockholder or any Stockholder Associated Person and any derivative positions held or beneficially held by the stockholder or any Stockholder Associated Person, (4) whether and the extent to which any hedging or other transaction or series of transactions has been entered into by or on behalf of such stockholder or any Stockholder Associated Person with respect to any securities of the corporation, and a description of any other agreement, arrangement or understanding (including any short position or any borrowing or lending of shares), the effect or intent of which is to mitigate loss to, or to manage the risk or benefit from share price changes for, or to increase or decrease the voting power of, such stockholder or any Stockholder Associated Person with respect to any securities of the corporation, (5) any material interest of the stockholder or a Stockholder Associated Person in such business, and (6) a statement whether either such stockholder or any Stockholder Associated Person will deliver a proxy statement and form of proxy to holders of at least the percentage of the corporation’s voting shares required under applicable law to carry the proposal (such information provided and statements made as required by clauses (1) through (6), a “Business Solicitation Statement”). In addition, to be in proper written form, a stockholder’s notice to the secretary must be supplemented not later than ten days following the record date for notice of the meeting to disclose the information contained in clauses (3) and (4) above as of the record date for notice of the meeting. For purposes of this Section 2.4, a “Stockholder Associated Person” of any stockholder shall mean (i) any person controlling, directly or indirectly, or acting in concert with, such stockholder, (ii) any beneficial owner of shares of stock of the corporation owned of record or beneficially by such stockholder and on whose behalf the proposal or nomination, as the case may be, is being made, or (iii) any person controlling, controlled by or under common control with such person referred to in the preceding clauses (i) and (ii).

 

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(c)           Without exception, no business shall be conducted at any annual meeting except in accordance with the provisions set forth in this Section 2.4(i) and, if applicable, Section 2.4(ii). In addition, business proposed to be brought by a stockholder may not be brought before the annual meeting if such stockholder or a Stockholder Associated Person, as applicable, takes action contrary to the representations made in the Business Solicitation Statement applicable to such business or if the Business Solicitation Statement applicable to such business contains an untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. The chairperson of the annual meeting shall, if the facts warrant, determine and declare at the annual meeting that business was not properly brought before the annual meeting and in accordance with the provisions of this Section 2.4(i), and, if the chairperson should so determine, he or she shall so declare at the annual meeting that any such business not properly brought before the annual meeting shall not be conducted.

 

(ii)           Advance Notice of Director Nominations at Annual Meetings. Notwithstanding anything in these bylaws to the contrary, only persons who are nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 2.4(ii) shall be eligible for election or re-election as directors at an annual meeting of stockholders. Nominations of persons for election or re-election to the board of directors of the corporation shall be made at an annual meeting of stockholders only (A) by or at the direction of the board of directors or (B) by a stockholder of the corporation who (1) was a stockholder of record at the time of the giving of the notice required by this Section 2.4(ii) and on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the annual meeting and (2) has complied with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 2.4(ii). In addition to any other applicable requirements, for a nomination to be made by a stockholder, the stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in proper written form to the secretary of the corporation.

 

(a)           To comply with clause (B) of Section 2.4(ii) above, a nomination to be made by a stockholder must set forth all information required under this Section 2.4(ii) and must be received by the secretary of the corporation at the principal executive offices of the corporation at the time set forth in, and in accordance with, the final three sentences of Section 2.4(i)(a) above.

 

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(b)           To be in proper written form, such stockholder’s notice to the secretary must set forth:

  

(1)             as to each person (a “nominee”) whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election or re-election as a director: (A) the name, age, business address and residence address of the nominee, (B) the principal occupation or employment of the nominee, (C) the class and number of shares of the corporation that are held of record or are beneficially owned by the nominee and any derivative positions held or beneficially held by the nominee, (D) whether and the extent to which any hedging or other transaction or series of transactions has been entered into by or on behalf of the nominee with respect to any securities of the corporation, and a description of any other agreement, arrangement or understanding (including any short position or any borrowing or lending of shares), the effect or intent of which is to mitigate loss to, or to manage the risk or benefit of share price changes for, or to increase or decrease the voting power of the nominee, (E) a description of all arrangements or understandings between the stockholder and each nominee and any other person or persons (naming such person or persons) pursuant to which the nominations are to be made by the stockholder, (F) a written statement executed by the nominee acknowledging that as a director of the corporation, the nominee will owe a fiduciary duty under Delaware law with respect to the corporation and its stockholders, and (G) any other information relating to the nominee that would be required to be disclosed about such nominee if proxies were being solicited for the election or re-election of the nominee as a director, or that is otherwise required, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A under the 1934 Act (including without limitation the nominee’s written consent to being named in the proxy statement, if any, as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected or re-elected, as the case may be); and

 

(2)             as to such stockholder giving notice, (A) the information required to be provided pursuant to clauses (2) through (5) of Section 2.4(i)(b) above, and the supplement referenced in the second sentence of Section 2.4(i)(b) above (except that the references to “business” in such clauses shall instead refer to nominations of directors for purposes of this paragraph), and (B) a statement whether either such stockholder or Stockholder Associated Person will deliver a proxy statement and form of proxy to holders of a number of the corporation’s voting shares reasonably believed by such stockholder or Stockholder Associated Person to be necessary to elect or re-elect such nominee(s) (such information provided and statements made as required by clauses (A) and (B) above, a “Nominee Solicitation Statement”).

 

(c)           At the request of the board of directors, any person nominated by a stockholder for election or re-election as a director must furnish to the secretary of the corporation (1) that information required to be set forth in the stockholder’s notice of nomination of such person as a director as of a date subsequent to the date on which the notice of such person’s nomination was given and (2) such other information as may reasonably be required by the corporation to determine the eligibility of such proposed nominee to serve as an independent director or audit committee financial expert of the corporation under applicable law, securities exchange rule or regulation, or any publicly-disclosed corporate governance guideline or committee charter of the corporation and (3) that could be material to a reasonable stockholder’s understanding of the independence, or lack thereof, of such nominee; in the absence of the furnishing of such information if requested, such stockholder’s nomination shall not be considered in proper form pursuant to this Section 2.4(ii).

 

(d)          Without exception, no person shall be eligible for election or re-election as a director of the corporation at an annual meeting of stockholders unless nominated in accordance with the provisions set forth in this Section 2.4(ii). In addition, a nominee shall not be eligible for election or re-election if a stockholder or Stockholder Associated Person, as applicable, takes action contrary to the representations made in the Nominee Solicitation Statement applicable to such nominee or if the Nominee Solicitation Statement applicable to such nominee contains an untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. The chairperson of the annual meeting shall, if the facts warrant, determine and declare at the annual meeting that a nomination was not made in accordance with the provisions prescribed by these bylaws, and if the chairperson should so determine, he or she shall so declare at the annual meeting, and the defective nomination shall be disregarded.

 

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(iii)           Advance Notice of Director Nominations for Special Meetings.

 

(a)           For a special meeting of stockholders at which directors are to be elected or re-elected, nominations of persons for election or re-election to the board of directors shall be made only (1) by or at the direction of the board of directors or (2) by any stockholder of the corporation who (A) is a stockholder of record at the time of the giving of the notice required by this Section 2.4(iii) and on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the special meeting and (B) delivers a timely written notice of the nomination to the secretary of the corporation that includes the information set forth in Sections 2.4(ii)(b) and (ii)(c) above. To be timely, such notice must be received by the secretary at the principal executive offices of the corporation not later than the close of business on the later of the 90th day prior to such special meeting or the tenth day following the day on which Public Announcement is first made of the date of the special meeting and of the nominees proposed by the board of directors to be elected or re-elected at such meeting. A person shall not be eligible for election or re-election as a director at a special meeting unless the person is nominated (i) by or at the direction of the board of directors or (ii) by a stockholder in accordance with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 2.4(iii). In addition, a nominee shall not be eligible for election or re-election if a stockholder or Stockholder Associated Person, as applicable, takes action contrary to the representations made in the Nominee Solicitation Statement applicable to such nominee or if the Nominee Solicitation Statement applicable to such nominee contains an untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.

 

(b)          The chairperson of the special meeting shall, if the facts warrant, determine and declare at the meeting that a nomination or business was not made in accordance with the procedures prescribed by these bylaws, and if the chairperson should so determine, he or she shall so declare at the meeting, and the defective nomination or business shall be disregarded.

 

(iv)          Other Requirements and Rights. In addition to the foregoing provisions of this Section 2.4, a stockholder must also comply with all applicable requirements of state law and of the 1934 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder with respect to the matters set forth in this Section 2.4. Nothing in this Section 2.4 shall be deemed to affect any rights of:

 

(a)           (a) a stockholder to request inclusion of proposals in the corporation’s proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a-8 (or any successor provision) under the 1934 Act; or

 

(b)           the corporation to omit a proposal from the corporation’s proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a-8 (or any successor provision) under the 1934 Act.

 

2.5.          NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETINGS

 

Whenever stockholders are required or permitted to take any action at a meeting, a written notice of the meeting shall be given which shall state the place, if any, date and hour of the meeting, the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, if such date is different from the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of the meeting, and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called. Except as otherwise provided in the DGCL, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, the written notice of any meeting of stockholders shall be given not less than 10 nor more than 60 days before the date of the meeting to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting as of the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to notice of the meeting. Notice need not be given to any stockholder who submits a written waiver of notice signed by him or her before or after the time stated therein. Attendance of a stockholder at a meeting of stockholders shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the stockholder attends the meeting for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the stockholders need be specified in any written waiver of notice.

 

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2.6.          QUORUM

 

The holders of a majority of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at all meetings of the stockholders. Where a separate vote by a class or series or classes or series is required, a majority of the outstanding shares of such class or series or classes or series, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum entitled to take action with respect to that vote on that matter, except as otherwise provided by law, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws.

 

If a quorum is not present or represented at any meeting of the stockholders, then either (i) the chairperson of the meeting, or (ii) the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, shall have power to adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum is present or represented. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present or represented, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally noticed.

 

2.7.          ADJOURNED MEETING; NOTICE

 

When a meeting is adjourned to another time or place, unless these bylaws otherwise require, notice need not be given of the adjourned meeting if the time, place, if any, thereof, and the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such adjourned meeting are announced at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken. At the adjourned meeting, the corporation may transact any business which might have been transacted at the original meeting. If the adjournment is for more than 30 days, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting and a new record date shall be fixed. If after the adjournment a new record date for stockholders entitled to vote is fixed for the adjourned meeting, the board of directors shall fix a new record date for notice of such adjourned meeting in accordance with Section 213(a) of the DGCL and Section 2.11 of these bylaws, and shall give notice of the adjourned meeting to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such adjourned meeting as of the record date fixed for notice of such adjourned meeting.

 

2.8.          CONDUCT OF BUSINESS

 

The chairperson of any meeting of stockholders shall determine the order of business and the procedure at the meeting, including such regulation of the manner of voting and the conduct of business. The chairperson of any meeting of stockholders shall be designated by the board of directors; in the absence of such designation, the chairperson of the board, if any, the chief executive officer (in the absence of the chairperson) or the president (in the absence of the chairperson of the board and the chief executive officer), or in their absence any other executive officer of the corporation, shall serve as chairperson of the stockholder meeting.

 

2.9.          VOTING

 

The stockholders entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.11 of these bylaws, subject to Section 217 (relating to voting rights of fiduciaries, pledgors and joint owners of stock) and Section 218 (relating to voting trusts and other voting agreements) of the DGCL.

 

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Except as may be otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, each stockholder shall be entitled to one vote for each share of capital stock held by such stockholder.

 

Except as otherwise required by law, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of a majority of the voting power of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter shall be the act of the stockholders. Except as otherwise required by law, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, directors shall be elected by a plurality of the voting power of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the election of directors. Where a separate vote by a class or series or classes or series is required, in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of the majority of shares of such class or series or classes or series present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting shall be the act of such class or series or classes or series, except as otherwise provided by law, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws.

 

2.10.        STOCKHOLDER ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT WITHOUT A MEETING

 

Subject to the rights of the holders of the shares of any series of Preferred Stock or any other class of stock or series thereof that have been expressly granted the right to take action by written consent, any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of the corporation must be effected at a duly called annual or special meeting of stockholders of the corporation and may not be effected by any consent in writing by such stockholders.

 

2.11.        RECORD DATES

 

In order that the corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, the board of directors may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the board of directors and which record date shall not be more than 60 nor less than 10 days before the date of such meeting. If the board of directors so fixes a date, such date shall also be the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at such meeting unless the board of directors determines, at the time it fixes such record date, that a later date on or before the date of the meeting shall be the date for making such determination.

 

If no record date is fixed by the board of directors, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of and to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice is given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held.

 

A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the board of directors may fix a new record date for determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the adjourned meeting, and in such case shall also fix as the record date for stockholders entitled to notice of such adjourned meeting the same or an earlier date as that fixed for determination of stockholders entitled to vote in accordance with the provisions of Section 213 of the DGCL and this Section 2.11 at the adjourned meeting.

 

In order that the corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights or the stockholders entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock, or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the board of directors may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted, and which record date shall be not more than 60 days prior to such action. If no record date is fixed, the record date for determining stockholders for any such purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the board of directors adopts the resolution relating thereto.

 

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2.12.        PROXIES

 

Each stockholder entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders may authorize another person or persons to act for such stockholder by proxy authorized by an instrument in writing or by a transmission permitted by law filed in accordance with the procedure established for the meeting, but no such proxy shall be voted or acted upon after three years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period. The revocability of a proxy that states on its face that it is irrevocable shall be governed by the provisions of Section 212 of the DGCL. A written proxy may be in the form of a telegram, cablegram, or other means of electronic transmission which sets forth or is submitted with information from which it can be determined that the telegram, cablegram, or other means of electronic transmission was authorized by the person.

 

2.13.        LIST OF STOCKHOLDERS ENTITLED TO VOTE

 

The officer who has charge of the stock ledger of the corporation shall prepare and make, at least 10 days before every meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting; provided, however, if the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote is less than 10 days before the meeting date, the list shall reflect the stockholders entitled to vote as of the tenth day before the meeting date. The stockholder list shall be arranged in alphabetical order and show the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. The corporation shall not be required to include electronic mail addresses or other electronic contact information on such list. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder for any purpose germane to the meeting for a period of at least 10 days prior to the meeting (i) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain access to such list is provided with the notice of the meeting, or (ii) during ordinary business hours, at the corporation’s principal place of business. In the event that the corporation determines to make the list available on an electronic network, the corporation may take reasonable steps to ensure that such information is available only to stockholders of the corporation. If the meeting is to be held at a place, then the list shall be produced and kept at the time and place of the meeting during the whole time thereof, and may be examined by any stockholder who is present. If the meeting is to be held solely by means of remote communication, then the list shall also be open to the examination of any stockholder during the whole time of the meeting on a reasonably accessible electronic network, and the information required to access such list shall be provided with the notice of the meeting. Such list shall presumptively determine the identity of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting and the number of shares held by each of them.

 

2.14.        INSPECTORS OF ELECTION

 

Before any meeting of stockholders, the board of directors shall appoint an inspector or inspectors of election to act at the meeting or its adjournment. The number of inspectors shall be either one (1) or three (3). If any person appointed as inspector fails to appear or fails or refuses to act, then the chairperson of the meeting may, and upon the request of any stockholder or a stockholder’s proxy shall, appoint a person to fill that vacancy.

 

Each inspector, before entering upon the discharge of his or her duties, shall take and sign an oath to execute faithfully the duties of inspector with strict impartiality and according to the best of his or her ability. The inspector or inspectors so appointed and designated shall (i) ascertain the number of shares of capital stock of the corporation outstanding and the voting power of each share, (ii) determine the shares of capital stock of the corporation represented at the meeting and the validity of proxies and ballots, (iii) count all votes and ballots, (iv) determine and retain for a reasonable period a record of the disposition of any challenges made to any determination by the inspectors, and (v) certify their determination of the number of shares of capital stock of the corporation represented at the meeting and such inspector or inspectors’ count of all votes and ballots.

 

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In determining the validity and counting of proxies and ballots cast at any meeting of stockholders of the corporation, the inspector or inspectors may consider such information as is permitted by applicable law. If there are three (3) inspectors of election, the decision, act or certificate of a majority is effective in all respects as the decision, act or certificate of all.

 

ARTICLE III —DIRECTORS

 

3.1.          POWERS

 

The business and affairs of the corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of the board of directors, except as may be otherwise provided in the DGCL or the certificate of incorporation.

 

3.2.          NUMBER OF DIRECTORS

 

The board of directors shall consist of one or more members, each of whom shall be a natural person. Unless the certificate of incorporation fixes the number of directors, the number of directors shall be determined from time to time solely by resolution of the board of directors. No reduction of the authorized number of directors shall have the effect of removing any director before that director’s term of office expires.

 

3.3.          ELECTION, QUALIFICATION AND TERM OF OFFICE OF DIRECTORS

 

Except as provided in Section 3.4 of these bylaws, each director, including a director elected to fill a vacancy, shall hold office until the expiration of the term for which elected and until such director’s successor is elected and qualified or until such director’s earlier death, resignation or removal. Directors need not be stockholders unless so required by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws. The certificate of incorporation or these bylaws may prescribe other qualifications for directors.

 

3.4.          RESIGNATION AND VACANCIES

 

Any director may resign at any time upon notice given in writing or by electronic transmission to the corporation; provided, however, that if such notice is given by electronic transmission, such electronic transmission must either set forth or be submitted with information from which it can be determined that the electronic transmission was authorized by the director. A resignation is effective when the resignation is delivered unless the resignation specifies a later effective date or an effective date determined upon the happening of an event or events. Acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. A resignation which is conditioned upon the director failing to receive a specified vote for reelection as a director may provide that it is irrevocable. Unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, when one or more directors resign from the board of directors, effective at a future date, a majority of the directors then in office, including those who have so resigned, shall have power to fill such vacancy or vacancies, the vote thereon to take effect when such resignation or resignations shall become effective.

 

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Unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, vacancies and newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors elected by all of the stockholders having the right to vote as a single class shall be filled only by a majority of the directors then in office, although less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director. If the directors are divided into classes, a person so elected by the directors then in office to fill a vacancy or newly created directorship shall hold office until the next election of the class for which such director shall have been chosen and until his or her successor shall have been duly elected and qualified.

  

If, at the time of filling any vacancy or any newly created directorship, the directors then in office constitute less than a majority of the whole board of directors (as constituted immediately prior to any such increase), the Court of Chancery may, upon application of any stockholder or stockholders holding at least 10% of the voting stock at the time outstanding having the right to vote for such directors, summarily order an election to be held to fill any such vacancies or newly created directorships, or to replace the directors chosen by the directors then in office as aforesaid, which election shall be governed by the provisions of Section 211 of the DGCL as far as applicable.

 

3.5.          PLACE OF MEETINGS; MEETINGS BY TELEPHONE

 

The board of directors may hold meetings, both regular and special, either within or outside the State of Delaware.

 

Unless otherwise restricted by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, members of the board of directors, or any committee designated by the board of directors, may participate in a meeting of the board of directors, or any committee, by means of conference telephone or other communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and such participation in a meeting shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.

 

3.6.          REGULAR MEETINGS

 

Regular meetings of the board of directors may be held without notice at such time and at such place as shall from time to time be determined by the board of directors.

 

3.7.          SPECIAL MEETINGS; NOTICE

 

Special meetings of the board of directors for any purpose or purposes may be called at any time by the chairperson of the board of directors, the chief executive officer, the president, or a majority of the authorized number of directors, at such times and places as he or she or they shall designate.

 

Notice of the time and place of special meetings shall be:

 

(i)            delivered personally by hand, by courier or by telephone;

 

(ii)           sent by United States first-class mail, postage prepaid;

 

(iii)          sent by facsimile; or

 

(iv)          sent by electronic mail,

 

directed to each director at that director’s address, telephone number, facsimile number or electronic mail address, as the case may be, as shown on the corporation’s records.

 

If the notice is (i) delivered personally by hand, by courier or by telephone, (ii) sent by facsimile or (iii) sent by electronic mail, it shall be delivered or sent at least 24 hours before the time of the holding of the meeting. If the notice is sent by United States mail, it shall be deposited in the United States mail at least four days before the time of the holding of the meeting. Any oral notice may be communicated to the director. The notice need not specify the place of the meeting (if the meeting is to be held at the corporation’s principal executive office) nor the purpose of the meeting.

 

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3.8.          QUORUM; VOTING

 

At all meetings of the board of directors, a majority of the total authorized number of directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. If a quorum is not present at any meeting of the board of directors, then the directors present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum is present. A meeting at which a quorum is initially present may continue to transact business notwithstanding the withdrawal of directors, if any action taken is approved by at least a majority of the required quorum for that meeting.

 

The vote of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the board of directors, except as may be otherwise specifically provided by statute, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws.

 

If the certificate of incorporation provides that one or more directors shall have more or less than one vote per director on any matter, every reference in these bylaws to a majority or other proportion of the directors shall refer to a majority or other proportion of the votes of the directors.

 

3.9.          BOARD ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT WITHOUT A MEETING

 

Unless otherwise restricted by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the board of directors, or of any committee thereof, may be taken without a meeting if all members of the board of directors or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission and the writing or writings or electronic transmission or transmissions are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the board of directors or committee. Such filing shall be in paper form if the minutes are maintained in paper form and shall be in electronic form if the minutes are maintained in electronic form.

 

3.10.        FEES AND COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS

 

Unless otherwise restricted by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, the board of directors shall have the authority to fix the compensation of directors.

 

3.11.        REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS

 

A director may be removed from office by the stockholders of the corporation only for cause.

 

No reduction of the authorized number of directors shall have the effect of removing any director prior to the expiration of such director’s term of office.

 

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ARTICLE IV — COMMITTEES

 

4.1.          COMMITTEES OF DIRECTORS

 

The board of directors may designate one or more committees, each committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the corporation. The board of directors may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not such member or members constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the board of directors to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member. Any such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the board of directors or in these bylaws, shall have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the board of directors in the management of the business and affairs of the corporation, and may authorize the seal of the corporation to be affixed to all papers that may require it; but no such committee shall have the power or authority to (i) approve or adopt, or recommend to the stockholders, any action or matter (other than the election or removal of directors) expressly required by the DGCL to be submitted to stockholders for approval, or (ii) adopt, amend or repeal any bylaw of the corporation.

 

4.2.          COMMITTEE MINUTES

 

Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report the same to the board of directors when required.

 

4.3.          MEETINGS AND ACTION OF COMMITTEES

 

Meetings and actions of committees shall be governed by, and held and taken in accordance with, the provisions of:

 

(i)            Section 3.5 (place of meetings; meetings by telephone);

 

(ii)           Section 3.6 (regular meetings);

 

(iii)          Section 3.7 (special meetings; notice);

 

(iv)          Section 3.8 (quorum; voting);

 

(v)           Section 3.9 (action by written consent without a meeting); and

 

(vi)         Section 7.5 (waiver of notice) with such changes in the context of those bylaws as are necessary to substitute the committee and its members for the board of directors and its members. However:

 

(vii)         the time of regular meetings of committees may be determined by resolution of the committee;

 

(viii)        special meetings of committees may also be called by resolution of the committee; and

 

(ix)          notice of special meetings of committees shall also be given to all alternate members, who shall have the right to attend all meetings of the committee. The board of directors may adopt rules for the government of any committee not inconsistent with the provisions of these bylaws.

 

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Any provision in the certificate of incorporation providing that one or more directors shall have more or less than one vote per director on any matter shall apply to voting in any committee or subcommittee, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws.

 

4.4.          SUBCOMMITTEES

 

Unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation, these bylaws or the resolutions of the board of directors designating the committee, a committee may create one or more subcommittees, each subcommittee to consist of one or more members of the committee, and delegate to a subcommittee any or all of the powers and authority of the committee.

 

4.5.          POWERS DENIED TO COMMITTEES

 

Committees of the board of directors shall not, in any event, have any power or authority to amend the corporation’s certificate of incorporation (except that a committee may, to the extent authorized in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issuance of shares adopted by the board of directors as provided in Section 151(a) of the DGCL, fix the designations and any of the preferences or rights of such shares relating to dividends, redemption, dissolution, any distribution of assets of the corporation or the conversion into, or the exchange of such shares for, shares of any other class or classes or any other series of the same or any other class or classes of stock of the corporation or fix the number of shares of any series of stock or authorize the increase or decrease of the shares of any series), adopt an agreement of merger or consolidation, recommend to the stockholders the sale, lease, or exchange of all or substantially all of the corporation’s property and assets, recommend to the stockholders a dissolution of the corporation or a revocation of a dissolution, or to amend the bylaws of the corporation. Further, no committee of the board of directors shall have the power or authority to declare a dividend, to authorize the issuance of stock, or to adopt a certificate of ownership and merger pursuant to Section 253 of the DGCL, unless the resolution or resolutions designating such committee expressly so provides.

 

ARTICLE V — OFFICERS

 

5.1.          OFFICERS

 

The officers of the corporation shall be a president and a secretary. The corporation may also have, at the discretion of the board of directors, a chairperson of the board of directors, a vice chairperson of the board of directors, a chief executive officer, a chief financial officer or treasurer, one or more vice presidents, one or more assistant vice presidents, one or more assistant treasurers, one or more assistant secretaries, and any such other officers as may be appointed in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws. Any number of offices may be held by the same person.

 

5.2.          COMPENSATION OF OFFICERS

 

The board of directors shall have power to fix the compensation of all officers of the company. It may authorize any officer, upon whom the power of appointing subordinate officers may have been conferred, to fix the compensation of such subordinate officers.

 

5.3.          APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS

 

The board of directors shall appoint the officers of the corporation, except such officers as may be appointed in accordance with the provisions of Section 5.3 of these bylaws, subject to the rights, if any, of an officer under any contract of employment. A vacancy in any office because of death, resignation, removal, disqualification or any other cause shall be filled in the manner prescribed in this Section 5 for the regular election to such office.

 

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5.4.          SUBORDINATE OFFICERS

 

The board of directors may appoint, or empower the chief executive officer or, in the absence of a chief executive officer, the president, to appoint, such other officers and agents as the business of the corporation may require. Each of such officers and agents shall hold office for such period, have such authority, and perform such duties as are provided in these bylaws or as the board of directors may from time to time determine.

 

5.5.          REMOVAL AND RESIGNATION OF OFFICERS

 

Subject to the rights, if any, of an officer under any contract of employment, any officer may be removed, either with or without cause, by an affirmative vote of the majority of the board of directors at any regular or special meeting of the board of directors or, except in the case of an officer chosen by the board of directors, by any officer upon whom such power of removal may be conferred by the board of directors.

 

Any officer may resign at any time by giving written or electronic notice to the corporation; provided, however, that if such notice is given by electronic transmission, such electronic transmission must either set forth or be submitted with information from which it can be determined that the electronic transmission was authorized by the officer. Any resignation shall take effect at the date of the receipt of that notice or at any later time specified in that notice. Unless otherwise specified in the notice of resignation, the acceptance of the resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. Any resignation is without prejudice to the rights, if any, of the corporation under any contract to which the officer is a party.

 

5.6.          VACANCIES IN OFFICES

 

Any vacancy occurring in any office of the corporation shall be filled by the board of directors or as provided in Section 5.3.

 

5.7.          REPRESENTATION OF SHARES OF OTHER CORPORATIONS

 

The chairperson of the board of directors, the president, any vice president, the treasurer, the secretary or assistant secretary of this corporation, or any other person authorized by the board of directors or the president or a vice president, is authorized to vote, represent, and exercise on behalf of this corporation all rights incident to any and all shares of any other corporation or corporations standing in the name of this corporation. The authority granted herein may be exercised either by such person directly or by any other person authorized to do so by proxy or power of attorney duly executed by such person having the authority.

 

5.8.          AUTHORITY AND DUTIES OF OFFICERS

 

In addition to the duties of each officer as set out below, all officers of the corporation shall respectively have such authority and perform such duties in the management of the business of the corporation as may be designated from time to time by the board of directors and, to the extent not so provided, as generally pertain to their respective offices, subject to the control of the board of directors.

 

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(a)              Chairperson of the Board

  

The chairperson of the board shall preside at all meetings of the stockholders and directors, and shall have such other duties as may be assigned to him or her from time to time by the board of directors.

 

(b)              President

 

Unless the board of directors otherwise determines, the president shall be the chief executive officer and head of the company. Unless there is a chairperson of the board, the president shall preside at all meetings of directors and stockholders. Under the supervision of the board of directors, the president shall have the general control and management of its business and affairs, subject, however, to the right of the board of directors to confer any specific power, except such as may be by statute exclusively conferred on the president, upon any other officer or officers of the company. The president shall perform and do all acts and things incident to the position of president and such other duties as may be assigned to the president from time to time by the board of directors.

 

(c)              Treasurer

 

The treasurer shall have the care and custody of all the funds and securities of the company that may come into his or her hands as treasurer, and the power and authority to endorse checks, drafts and other instruments for the payment of money for deposit or collection when necessary or proper and to deposit the same to the credit of the company in such bank or banks or depository as the board of directors, or the officers or agents to whom the board of directors may delegate such authority, may designate, and may endorse all commercial documents requiring endorsements for or on behalf of the company. The treasurer may sign all receipts and vouchers for the payments made to the company. The treasurer shall render an account of his or her transactions to the board of directors as often as the board of directors or the committee shall require the same. The treasurer shall enter regularly in the books to be kept by him or her for that purpose full and adequate account of all moneys received and paid by him or her on account of the company. The treasurer shall perform all acts incident to the position of treasurer, subject to the control of the board of directors. The treasurer shall when requested, pursuant to vote of the board of directors, give a bond to the company conditioned for the faithful performance of his or her duties, the expense of which bond shall be borne by the company.

 

(d)              Secretary

 

The secretary shall keep the minutes of all meetings of the board of directors and of the stockholders; he or she shall attend to the giving and serving of all notices of the company. Except as otherwise ordered by the board of directors, he or she shall attest the seal of the company upon all contracts and instruments executed under such seal and shall affix the seal of the company thereto and to all certificates of shares of capital stock of the company. The secretary shall have charge of the stock certificate book, transfer book and stock ledger, and such other books and papers as the board of directors may direct. The secretary shall, in general, perform all the duties of secretary, subject to the control of the board of directors.

 

ARTICLE VI — STOCK

 

6.1.          STOCK CERTIFICATES; PARTLY PAID SHARES

 

The shares of the corporation shall be represented by certificates, provided that the board of directors may provide by resolution or resolutions that some or all of any or all classes or series of its stock shall be uncertificated shares. Any such resolution shall not apply to shares represented by a certificate until such certificate is surrendered to the corporation. Every holder of stock represented by certificates shall be entitled to have a certificate signed by, or in the name of the corporation by the chairperson of the board of directors or vice-chairperson of the board of directors, or the president or a vice-president, and by the treasurer or an assistant treasurer, or the secretary or an assistant secretary of the corporation representing the number of shares registered in certificate form. Any or all of the signatures on the certificate may be a facsimile. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate has ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the corporation with the same effect as if such person were such officer, transfer agent or registrar at the date of issue. The corporation shall not have power to issue a certificate in bearer form.

 

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The corporation may issue the whole or any part of its shares as partly paid and subject to call for the remainder of the consideration to be paid therefor. Upon the face or back of each stock certificate issued to represent any such partly-paid shares, or upon the books and records of the corporation in the case of uncertificated partly-paid shares, the total amount of the consideration to be paid therefor and the amount paid thereon shall be stated. Upon the declaration of any dividend on fully-paid shares, the corporation shall declare a dividend upon partly-paid shares of the same class, but only upon the basis of the percentage of the consideration actually paid thereon.

 

6.2.          SPECIAL DESIGNATION ON CERTIFICATES

 

If the corporation is authorized to issue more than one class of stock or more than one series of any class, then the powers, the designations, the preferences, and the relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights shall be set forth in full or summarized on the face or back of the certificate that the corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock; provided, however, that, except as otherwise provided in Section 202 of the DGCL, in lieu of the foregoing requirements there may be set forth on the face or back of the certificate that the corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock, a statement that the corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests the powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights. Within a reasonable time after the issuance or transfer of uncertificated stock, the corporation shall send to the registered owner thereof a written notice containing the information required to be set forth or stated on certificates pursuant to this section 6.2 or Sections 156, 202(a) or 218(a) of the DGCL or with respect to this section 6.2 a statement that the corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests the powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights. Except as otherwise expressly provided by law, the rights and obligations of the holders of uncertificated stock and the rights and obligations of the holders of certificates representing stock of the same class and series shall be identical.

 

6.3.          LOST, STOLEN OR DESTROYED CERTIFICATES

 

Except as provided in this Section 6.3, no new certificates for shares shall be issued to replace a previously issued certificate unless the latter is surrendered to the corporation and cancelled at the same time. The corporation may issue a new certificate of stock or uncertificated shares in the place of any certificate theretofore issued by it, alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, and the corporation may require the owner of the lost, stolen or destroyed certificate, or such owner’s legal representative, to give the corporation a bond sufficient to indemnify it against any claim that may be made against it on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of any such certificate or the issuance of such new certificate or uncertificated shares.

 

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6.4.          DIVIDENDS

 

The board of directors, subject to any restrictions contained in the certificate of incorporation or applicable law, may declare and pay dividends upon the shares of the corporation’s capital stock. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of the corporation’s capital stock, subject to the provisions of the certificate of incorporation.

 

The board of directors may set apart out of any of the funds of the corporation available for dividends a reserve or reserves for any proper purpose and may abolish any such reserve. Such purposes shall include but not be limited to equalizing dividends, repairing or maintaining any property of the corporation, and meeting contingencies.

 

6.5.          TRANSFER OF STOCK

 

Transfers of record of shares of stock of the corporation shall be made only upon its books by the holders thereof, in person or by an attorney or legal representative duly authorized, and, if such stock is certificated, upon the surrender of a certificate or certificates for a like number of shares, properly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignation or authority to transfer; provided, however, that such succession, assignment or authority to transfer is not prohibited by the certificate of incorporation, these bylaws, applicable law or contract.

 

6.6.          STOCK TRANSFER AGREEMENTS

 

The corporation shall have power to enter into and perform any agreement with any number of stockholders of any one or more classes of stock of the corporation to restrict the transfer of shares of stock of the corporation of any one or more classes owned by such stockholders in any manner not prohibited by the DGCL.

 

6.7.          REGISTERED STOCKHOLDERS

 

The corporation:

 

(i)            shall be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a person registered on its books as the owner of shares to receive dividends and to vote as such owner;

 

(ii)           shall be entitled to hold liable for calls and assessments the person registered on its books as the owner of shares; and

 

(iii)          shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or shares on the part of another person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of Delaware.

 

6.8.          FRACTIONAL SHARE INTERESTS

 

The corporation may, but shall not be required to, issue fractions of a share. If the corporation does not issue fractions of a share, it shall (i) arrange for the disposition of fractional interests by those entitled thereto, (ii) pay in cash the fair value of fractions of a share as of the time when those entitled to receive such fractions are determined, or (iii) issue scrip or warrants in registered or bearer form that shall entitle the holder to receive a certificate for a full share upon the surrender of such scrip or warrants aggregating a full share. A certificate for a fractional share shall, but scrip or warrants shall not unless otherwise provided therein, entitle the holder to exercise voting rights, to receive dividends thereon, and to participate in any of the assets of the corporation in the event of liquidation. The board of directors may cause scrip or warrants to be issued subject to the conditions that they shall become void if not exchanged for certificates representing full shares before a specified date, or subject to the conditions that the shares for which scrip or warrants are exchangeable may be sold by the corporation and the proceeds thereof distributed to the holders of scrip or warrants, or subject to any other conditions that the board of directors may impose.

 

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ARTICLE VII — MANNER OF GIVING NOTICE AND WAIVER

 

7.1.          NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETINGS

 

Notice of any meeting of stockholders, if mailed, is given when deposited in the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the stockholder at such stockholder’s address as it appears on the corporation’s records. An affidavit of the secretary or an assistant secretary of the corporation or of the transfer agent or other agent of the corporation that the notice has been given shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein.

 

7.2.          NOTICE BY ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION

 

Without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given effectively to stockholders pursuant to the DGCL, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, any notice to stockholders given by the corporation under any provision of the DGCL, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws shall be effective if given by a form of electronic transmission consented to by the stockholder to whom the notice is given. Any such consent shall be revocable by the stockholder by written notice to the corporation. Any such consent shall be deemed revoked if:

 

(i)            the corporation is unable to deliver by electronic transmission two consecutive notices given by the corporation in accordance with such consent; and

 

(ii)           such inability becomes known to the secretary or an assistant secretary of the corporation or to the transfer agent, or other person responsible for the giving of notice.

 

However, the inadvertent failure to treat such inability as a revocation shall not invalidate any meeting or other action.

 

Any notice given pursuant to the preceding paragraph shall be deemed given:

 

(i)            if by facsimile telecommunication, when directed to a number at which the stockholder has consented to receive notice;

 

(ii)            if by electronic mail, when directed to an electronic mail address at which the stockholder has consented to receive notice;

 

(iii)          if by a posting on an electronic network together with separate notice to the stockholder of such specific posting, upon the later of (A) such posting and (B) the giving of such separate notice; and

 

(iv)          if by any other form of electronic transmission, when directed to the stockholder.

 

An affidavit of the secretary or an assistant secretary or of the transfer agent or other agent of the corporation that the notice has been given by a form of electronic transmission shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein.

 

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An “electronic transmission” means any form of communication, not directly involving the physical transmission of paper, that creates a record that may be retained, retrieved, and reviewed by a recipient thereof, and that may be directly reproduced in paper form by such a recipient through an automated process.

 

7.3.          NOTICE TO STOCKHOLDERS SHARING AN ADDRESS

 

Except as otherwise prohibited under the DGCL, without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given effectively to stockholders, any notice to stockholders given by the corporation under the provisions of the DGCL, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws shall be effective if given by a single written notice to stockholders who share an address if consented to by the stockholders at that address to whom such notice is given. Any such consent shall be revocable by the stockholder by written notice to the corporation. Any stockholder who fails to object in writing to the corporation, within 60 days of having been given written notice by the corporation of its intention to send the single notice, shall be deemed to have consented to receiving such single written notice.

 

7.4.          NOTICE TO PERSON WITH WHOM COMMUNICATION IS UNLAWFUL

 

Whenever notice is required to be given, under the DGCL, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, to any person with whom communication is unlawful, the giving of such notice to such person shall not be required and there shall be no duty to apply to any governmental authority or agency for a license or permit to give such notice to such person. Any action or meeting which shall be taken or held without notice to any such person with whom communication is unlawful shall have the same force and effect as if such notice had been duly given. In the event that the action taken by the corporation is such as to require the filing of a certificate under the DGCL, the certificate shall state, if such is the fact and if notice is required, that notice was given to all persons entitled to receive notice except such persons with whom communication is unlawful.

 

7.5.          WAIVER OF NOTICE

 

Whenever notice is required to be given to stockholders, directors or other persons under any provision of the DGCL, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, a written waiver, signed by the person entitled to notice, or a waiver by electronic transmission by the person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time of the event for which notice is to be given, shall be deemed equivalent to notice. Attendance of a person at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the stockholders or the board of directors, as the case may be, need be specified in any written waiver of notice or any waiver by electronic transmission unless so required by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws.

 

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ARTICLE VIII — INDEMNIFICATION

 

8.1.          INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS IN THIRD PARTY PROCEEDINGS

 

Subject to the other provisions of this Article VIII, the corporation shall indemnify, to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL, as now or hereinafter in effect, any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (a “Proceeding”) (other than an action by or in the right of the corporation) by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director of the corporation or an officer of the corporation, or while a director of the corporation or officer of the corporation is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such Proceeding if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe such person’s conduct was unlawful. The termination of any Proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that such person’s conduct was unlawful.

 

8.2.         INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS IN ACTIONS BY OR IN THE RIGHT OF THE CORPORATION

 

Subject to the other provisions of this Article VIII, the corporation shall indemnify, to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL, as now or hereinafter in effect, any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the corporation, or while a director or officer of the corporation is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation; except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that the Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the Court of Chancery or such other court shall deem proper.

 

8.3.          SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE

 

To the extent that a present or former director or officer of the corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding described in Section 8.1 or Section 8.2, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, such person shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection therewith.

 

8.4.          INDEMNIFICATION OF OTHERS

 

Subject to the other provisions of this Article VIII, the corporation shall have power to indemnify its employees and its agents to the extent not prohibited by the DGCL or other applicable law. The board of directors shall have the power to delegate the determination of whether employees or agents shall be indemnified to such person or persons as the board of determines.

 

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8.5.          ADVANCED PAYMENT OF EXPENSES

 

Expenses (including attorneys’ fees) incurred by an officer or director of the corporation in defending any Proceeding shall be paid by the corporation in advance of the final disposition of such Proceeding upon receipt of a written request therefor (together with documentation reasonably evidencing such expenses) and an undertaking by or on behalf of the person to repay such amounts if it shall ultimately be determined that the person is not entitled to be indemnified under this Article VIII or the DGCL. Such expenses (including attorneys’ fees) incurred by former directors and officers or other employees and agents may be so paid upon such terms and conditions, if any, as the corporation deems reasonably appropriate and shall be subject to the corporation’s expense guidelines. The right to advancement of expenses shall not apply to any claim for which indemnity is excluded pursuant to these bylaws, but shall apply to any Proceeding referenced in Section 8.6(ii) or 8.6(iii) prior to a determination that the person is not entitled to be indemnified by the corporation.

 

8.6.          LIMITATION ON INDEMNIFICATION

 

Subject to the requirements in Section 8.3 and the DGCL, the corporation shall not be obligated to indemnify any person pursuant to this Article VIII in connection with any Proceeding (or any part of any Proceeding):

 

(i)            for which payment has actually been made to or on behalf of such person under any statute, insurance policy, indemnity provision, vote or otherwise, except with respect to any excess beyond the amount paid;

 

(ii)            for an accounting or disgorgement of profits pursuant to Section 16(b) of the 1934 Act, or similar provisions of federal, state or local statutory law or common law, if such person is held liable therefor (including pursuant to any settlement arrangements);

 

(iii)          for any reimbursement of the corporation by such person of any bonus or other incentive-based or equity-based compensation or of any profits realized by such person from the sale of securities of the corporation, as required in each case under the 1934 Act (including any such reimbursements that arise from an accounting restatement of the corporation pursuant to Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), or the payment to the corporation of profits arising from the purchase and sale by such person of securities in violation of Section 306 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act), if such person is held liable therefor (including pursuant to any settlement arrangements);

 

(iv)         initiated by such person against the corporation or its directors, officers, employees, agents or other indemnitees, unless (a) the board of directors authorized the Proceeding (or the relevant part of the Proceeding) prior to its initiation, (b) the corporation provides the indemnification, in its sole discretion, pursuant to the powers vested in the corporation under applicable law, (c) otherwise required to be made under Section 8.7 or (d) otherwise required by applicable law; or

 

(v)           if prohibited by applicable law; provided, however, that if any provision or provisions of this Article VIII shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (1) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Article VIII (including, without limitation, each portion of any paragraph or clause containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that is not itself held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby; and (2) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Article VIII (including, without limitation, each such portion of any paragraph or clause containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested by the provision held invalid, illegal or unenforceable.

 

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8.7.          DETERMINATION; CLAIM

 

If a claim for indemnification or advancement of expenses under this Article VIII is not paid in full within 90 days after receipt by the corporation of the written request therefor, the claimant shall be entitled to an adjudication by a court of competent jurisdiction of his or her entitlement to such indemnification or advancement of expenses. The corporation shall indemnify such person against any and all expenses that are incurred by such person in connection with any action for indemnification or advancement of expenses from the corporation under this Article VIII, to the extent such person is successful in such action, and to the extent not prohibited by law. In any such suit, the corporation shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, have the burden of proving that the claimant is not entitled to the requested indemnification or advancement of expenses.

 

8.8.          NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS

 

The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Article VIII shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under the certificate of incorporation or any statute, bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in such person’s official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office. The corporation is specifically authorized to enter into individual contracts with any or all of its directors, officers, employees or agents respecting indemnification and advancement of expenses, to the fullest extent not prohibited by the DGCL or other applicable law.

 

8.9.          INSURANCE

 

The corporation may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against such person and incurred by such person in any such capacity, or arising out of such person’s status as such, whether or not the corporation would have the power to indemnify such person against such liability under the provisions of the DGCL.

 

8.10.        SURVIVAL

 

The rights to indemnification and advancement of expenses conferred by this Article VIII shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.

 

8.11.        EFFECT OF REPEAL OR MODIFICATION

 

Any amendment, alteration or repeal of this Article VIII shall not adversely affect any right or protection hereunder of any person in respect of any act or omission occurring prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal.

 

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8.12.        CERTAIN DEFINITIONS

 

For purposes of this Article VIII, references to the “corporation” shall include, in addition to the resulting corporation, any constituent corporation (including any constituent of a constituent) absorbed in a consolidation or merger which, if its separate existence had continued, would have had power and authority to indemnify its directors, officers, employees or agents, so that any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of such constituent corporation, or is or was serving at the request of such constituent corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall stand in the same position under the provisions of this Article VIII with respect to the resulting or surviving corporation as such person would have with respect to such constituent corporation if its separate existence had continued. For purposes of this Article VIII, references to “other enterprises” shall include employee benefit plans; references to “fines” shall include any excise taxes assessed on a person with respect to an employee benefit plan (excluding any “parachute payments” within the meanings of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended); and references to “serving at the request of the corporation” shall include any service as a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation which imposes duties on, or involves services by, such director, officer, employee or agent with respect to an employee benefit plan, its participants or beneficiaries; and a person who acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries of an employee benefit plan shall be deemed to have acted in a manner “not opposed to the best interests of the corporation” as referred to in this Article VIII.

 

ARTICLE IX — GENERAL MATTERS

 

9.1.          CONFLICT OF INTEREST

 

No contract or transaction between the corporation and one or more of its directors or officers, or between the corporation and any other corporation, partnership, association, or other organization in which one or more of its directors or officers are directors or officers, or have a financial interest, shall be void or voidable solely for this reason, or solely because the director or officer is present at or participates in the meeting of the board of directors of or committee thereof that authorized the contract or transaction, or solely because his, her or their votes are counted for such purpose, if: (i) the material facts as to his or her relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the board of directors or the committee and the board of directors or committee in good faith authorizes the contract or transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of the disinterested directors, even though the disinterested directors be less than a quorum; or (ii) the material facts as to his or her relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the stockholders of the corporation entitled to vote thereon, and the contract or transaction as specifically approved in good faith by vote of such stockholders; or (iii) the contract or transaction is fair as to the corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved, or ratified, by the board of directors, a committee or the stockholders. Common or interested directors may be counted in determining the presence of a quorum at a meeting of the board of directors or of a committee that authorizes the contract or transaction.

 

9.2.          EXECUTION OF CORPORATE CONTRACTS AND INSTRUMENTS

 

Except as otherwise provided by law, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, the board of directors may authorize any officer or officers, or agent or agents, to enter into any contract or execute any document or instrument in the name of and on behalf of the corporation; such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Unless so authorized or ratified by the board of directors or within the agency power of an officer, no officer, agent or employee shall have any power or authority to bind the corporation by any contract or engagement or to pledge its credit or to render it liable for any purpose or for any amount.

 

9.3.          CHECKS, DRAFTS AND NOTES

 

All checks, drafts, or orders for the payment of money, and all notes and acceptances of the corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers, or such agent or agents, as the board of directors may designate.

 

9.4.          FISCAL YEAR

 

The fiscal year of the corporation shall be fixed by resolution of the board of directors and may be changed by the board of directors.

 

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9.5.          SEAL

 

The corporation may adopt a corporate seal, which shall be adopted and which may be altered by the board of directors. The corporation may use the corporate seal by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed or affixed or in any other manner reproduced.

 

9.6.          CONSTRUCTION; DEFINITIONS

 

Unless the context requires otherwise, the general provisions, rules of construction, and definitions in the DGCL shall govern the construction of these bylaws. Without limiting the generality of this provision, the singular number includes the plural, the plural number includes the singular, and the term “person” includes both an entity and a natural person.

 

9.7.          GENERAL POWERS

 

In addition to the powers and authority expressly conferred upon them by these by-laws, the Board of Directors may exercise all such powers of the corporation and do all such lawful acts and things as are not by statute or by the corporation’s certificate of incorporation or by these bylaws directed or required to be exercised or done by the stockholders.

 

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TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.

 

2021 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

 

Section 1.              Establishment and Purpose

 

The purpose of the Twin Vee PowerCats Co. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) is to provide a means whereby eligible employees, officers, non-employee directors and other individual service providers of Twin Vee PowerCats Co. (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries may develop a sense of proprietorship and personal involvement in the development and financial success of the Company and to encourage them to devote their best efforts to the business of the Company, thereby advancing the interests of the Company and its stockholders. The Company, by means of the Plan, seeks to retain the services of such eligible persons and to provide incentives for such persons to exert maximum efforts for the success of the Company and its subsidiaries.

 

The Plan permits the grant of Nonqualified Stock Options, Incentive Stock Options, Stock Appreciation Rights, Restricted Stock, Stock Units, Performance Shares, Performance Units, Incentive Bonus Awards, Other Cash-Based Awards and Other Stock-Based Awards. This Plan, as amended and restated, shall become effective upon the date set forth in Section 17.1 hereof.

 

Section 2.              Definitions

 

Wherever the following capitalized terms are used in the Plan, they shall have the meanings specified below:

 

2.1           “Affiliate” means, with respect to a Person, a Person that directly or indirectly Controls, or is Controlled by, or is under common Control with, such Person.

 

2.2           “Applicable Law” means the requirements relating to the administration of equity-based awards or equity compensation plans under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction where Awards are, or will be, granted under the Plan.

 

2.3          “Award” means an award of a Stock Option, Stock Appreciation Right, Restricted Stock, Stock Unit, Performance Share, Performance Unit, Incentive Bonus Award, Other Cash-Based Award and/or Other Stock-Based Award granted under the Plan.

 

2.4           “Award Agreement” means either (i) a written or electronic agreement entered into between the Company and a Participant setting forth the terms and conditions of an Award including any amendment or modification thereof, or (ii) a written or electronic statement issued by the Company to a Participant describing the terms and provisions of such Award, including any amendment or modification thereof. The Committee may provide for the use of electronic, internet or other non-paper Award Agreements, and the use of electronic, internet or other non-paper means for the acceptance thereof and actions thereunder by a Participant. Each Award Agreement shall be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and need not be identical.

 

2.5           “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

 

2.6           “Cause” means: (a) conviction of any crime (whether or not involving the Company) constituting a felony in the jurisdiction involved; (b) engaging in any substantiated act involving moral turpitude; (c) engaging in any act which, in each case, subjects, or if generally known would subject, the Company to public ridicule or embarrassment; (d) material violation of the Company’s policies, including, without limitation, those relating to sexual harassment or the disclosure or misuse of confidential information; (e) serious neglect or misconduct in the performance of the grantee’s duties for the Company or a subsidiary or willful or repeated failure or refusal to perform such duties; in each case as determined by the Committee, which determination shall be final, binding and conclusive. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Participant and the Company (or any of its Affiliates) have entered into an employment agreement, consulting agreement or other similar agreement that specifically defines “cause,” then with respect to such Participant, “Cause” shall have the meaning defined in that employment agreement, consulting agreement or other agreement.

 

 
 

 

2.7           “Change in Control” shall be deemed to have occurred if any one of the following events shall occur:

 

(i)            Any Person becomes the beneficial owner (as defined in Rule 13(d)-3 under the Exchange Act) of shares of Common Stock representing more than 50% of the total number of votes that may be cast for the election of directors of the Company;

 

(ii)           The consummation of any merger or other business combination of the Company, sale of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets or combination of the foregoing transactions (a “Transaction”), other than a Transaction involving only the Company and one or more of its subsidiaries, or a Transaction immediately following which the shareholders of the Company immediately prior to the Transaction continue to have a majority of the voting power in the resulting entity;

 

(iii)          Within any 12-month period beginning on or after the Effective Date, the persons who were directors of the Company immediately before the beginning of such period (the “Incumbent Directors”) shall cease (for any reason other than death) to constitute at least a majority of the Board (or the board of directors of any successor to the Company); provided that any director who was not a director as of the date hereof shall be deemed to be an Incumbent Director if such director was elected to the Board by, or on the recommendation of or with the approval of, at least two-thirds of the directors who then qualified as Incumbent Directors either actually or by prior operation of the foregoing unless such election, recommendation or approval was the result of an actual or threatened election contest of the type contemplated by Rule 14a-11 promulgated under the Exchange Act or any successor provision; or

 

(iv)          the shareholders of the Company approve a plan of complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, no event or condition shall constitute a Change in Control to the extent that, if it were, a penalty tax would be imposed under Section 409A of the Code; provided that, in such a case, the event or condition shall continue to constitute a Change in Control to the maximum extent possible (e.g., if applicable, in respect of vesting without an acceleration of distribution) without causing the imposition of such penalty tax.

 

2.8           “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. For purposes of this Plan, references to sections of the Code shall be deemed to include references to any applicable regulations thereunder and any successor or similar provision.

 

2.9           “Committee” means the committee of the Board delegated with the authority to administer the Plan, or the full Board, as provided in Section 3 of the Plan. With respect to any decision relating to a Reporting Person, the Committee shall consist solely of two or more directors who are disinterested within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act, as amended from time to time, or any successor provision. The fact that a Committee member shall fail to qualify under any of these requirements shall not invalidate an Award if the Award is otherwise validly made under the Plan. The Board may at any time appoint additional members to the Committee, remove and replace members of the Committee with or without Cause, and fill vacancies on the Committee however caused.

 

2.10         “Common Stock” means the Company’s Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share.

 

2.11         “Company” means Twin Vee PowerCats Co., and any successor thereto as provided in Section 15.8.

 

2.12        “Control” means, as to any Person, the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, or the power to appoint directors of the Company, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise (the terms “Controlled by” and “under common Control with” shall have correlative meanings).

 

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2.13         “Date of Grant” means the date on which an Award under the Plan is granted by the Committee, or such later date as the Committee may specify to be the effective date of an Award.

 

2.14         “Disability” means a Participant being considered “disabled” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code and Treasury Regulation 1.409A-3(i)(4), as well as any successor regulation or interpretation.

 

2.15         “Effective Date” means the date set forth in Section 17.1 hereof.

 

2.16        “Eligible Person” means any person who is an employee, officer, director, consultant, advisor or other individual service provider of the Company or any Subsidiary, or any person who is determined by the Committee to be a prospective employee, officer, director, consultant, advisor or other individual service provider of the Company or any Subsidiary; provided that the Award Agreement for any grant of an Award to a prospective employee, officer, director, consultant, advisor or other individual service provider will contain appropriate forfeiture provisions in the event such individual does not become employed or engaged by the Company or applicable Subsidiary .

 

2.17         “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

2.18         “Fair Market Value” of a share of Common Stock shall be, as applied to a specific date (i) the closing price of a share of Common Stock as of such date on the principal established stock exchange or national market system on which the Common Stock is then traded (or, if there is no trading in the Common Stock as of such date, the closing price of a share of Common Stock on the most recent date preceding such date on which trades of the Common Stock were recorded), or (ii) if the shares of Common Stock are not then traded on an established stock exchange or national market system but are then traded in an over-the-counter market, the average of the closing bid and asked prices for the shares of Common Stock in such over-the-counter market as of such date (or, if there are no closing bid and asked prices for the shares of Common Stock as of such date, the average of the closing bid and the asked prices for the shares of Common Stock on the most recent date preceding such date on which such closing bid and asked prices are available on such over-the-counter market), or (iii) if the shares of Common Stock are not then listed on a national securities exchange or national market system or traded in an over-the-counter market, the price of a share of Common Stock as determined by the Committee in its discretion in a manner consistent with Section 409A of the Code and Treasury Regulation 1.409A-1(b)(5)(iv), as well as any successor regulation or interpretation.

 

2.19         “Incentive Bonus Award” means an Award granted under Section 12 of the Plan.

 

2.20         “Incentive Stock Option” means a Stock Option granted under Section 6 hereof that is intended to meet the requirements of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

2.21         “Nonqualified Stock Option” means a Stock Option granted under Section 6 hereof that is not an Incentive Stock Option.

 

2.22         “Other Cash-Based Award” means a contractual right granted to an Eligible Person under Section 13 hereof entitling such Eligible Person to receive a cash payment at such times, and subject to such conditions, as are set forth in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

 

2.23        “Other Stock-Based Award” means a contractual right granted to an Eligible Person under Section 13 representing a notional unit interest equal in value to a share of Common Stock to be paid and distributed at such times, and subject to such conditions as are set forth in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

 

2.24         “Participant” means any Eligible Person who holds an outstanding Award under the Plan.

 

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2.25        “Performance Shares” means a contractual right granted to an Eligible Person under Section 10 hereof representing a notional unit interest equal in value to a share of Common Stock to be paid and distributed at such times, and subject to such conditions, as are set forth in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

 

2.26        “Performance Unit” means a contractual right granted to an Eligible Person under Section 11 hereof representing a notional dollar interest as determined by the Committee to be paid and distributed at such times, and subject to such conditions, as are set forth in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

 

2.27         “Person” shall mean any individual, partnership, firm, trust, corporation, limited liability company or other similar entity. When two or more Persons act as a partnership, limited partnership, syndicate or other group for the purpose of acquiring, holding or disposing of Common Stock, such partnership, limited partnership, syndicate or group shall be deemed a “Person”.

 

2.28         “Plan” means the Twin Vee PowerCats Co. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan, as set forth herein and as may be amended from time to time.

 

2.29         “Reporting Person” means an officer, director or greater than ten percent stockholder of the Company within the meaning of Rule 16a-2 under the Exchange Act, who is required to file reports pursuant to Rule 16a-3 under the Exchange Act.

 

2.30         “Restricted Stock Award” means a grant of shares of Common Stock to an Eligible Person under Section 8 hereof that are issued subject to such vesting and transfer restrictions and such other conditions as are set forth in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

 

2.31         “Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

2.32        “Service” means a Participant’s employment or other service relationship with the Company or any Subsidiary. A change in the capacity in which a Participant renders service to the Company or a Subsidiary as an employee, director or consultant or a change in the entity for which the Participant renders such service, provided that there is no interruption or termination of the Participant’s Service with the Company or a Subsidiary, will not terminate a Participant’s Service; provided, however, that if the entity for which a Participant is rendering services ceases to qualify as a Subsidiary, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, such Participant’s Service will be considered to have terminated on the date such entity ceases to qualify as a Subsidiary. For example, a change in status from an employee of the Company to a consultant to or director of the Company will not constitute an interruption of Service. To the extent permitted by Applicable Law, the Committee or the chief executive officer of the Company, in that party’s sole discretion, may determine whether a Participant’s Service will be considered interrupted in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or chief executive officer, including sick leave, military leave or any other personal leave, or (ii) transfers between the Company, a Subsidiary, or their successors. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a leave of absence will be treated as Service for purposes of vesting in an Award only to such extent as may be provided in the Company’s (or a Subsidiary’s) leave of absence policy, in the written terms of any leave of absence agreement or policy applicable to the Participant, or as otherwise required by Applicable Law. Unless the Committee provides otherwise, in its discretion, or as otherwise required by Applicable Law, vesting of Options shall be tolled during any unpaid leave of absence by a Participant.

 

2.33         “Stock Appreciation Right” means a contractual right granted to an Eligible Person under Section 7 hereof entitling such Eligible Person to receive a payment, upon the exercise of such right, in such amount and at such time, and subject to such conditions, as are set forth in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

 

2.34         “Stock Option” means a contractual right granted to an Eligible Person under Section 6 hereof to purchase shares of Common Stock at such time and price, and subject to such conditions, as are set forth in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

 

2.35        “Stock Unit Award” means a contractual right granted to an Eligible Person under Section 9 hereof representing notional unit interests equal in value to a share of Common Stock to be paid and distributed at such times, and subject to such conditions, as are set forth in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

 

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2.36         “Subsidiary” means an entity (whether or not a corporation) that is wholly or majority owned or Controlled, directly or indirectly, by the Company; provided, however, that with respect to Incentive Stock Options, the term “Subsidiary” shall include only an entity that qualifies under Section 424(f) of the Code as a “subsidiary corporation” with respect to the Company.

 

 Section 3.             Administration

 

3.1           Committee Members. The Plan shall be administered by the Committee; provided that the entire Board may act in lieu of the Committee on any matter, subject to the requirements of Section 2.9 of the Plan with respect to an Award to a Reporting Person. If and to the extent permitted by Applicable Law, the Committee may authorize one or more Reporting Persons (or other officers) to make Awards to Eligible Persons who are not Reporting Persons (or other officers whom the Committee has specifically authorized to make Awards). Subject to Applicable Law and the restrictions set forth in the Plan, the Committee may delegate administrative functions to individuals who are Reporting Persons, officers, or employees of the Company or its Subsidiaries.

 

3.2          Committee Authority. The Committee shall have such powers and authority as may be necessary or appropriate for the Committee to carry out its functions as described in the Plan. Subject to the express limitations of the Plan, the Committee shall have authority in its discretion to determine the Eligible Persons to whom, and the time or times at which, Awards may be granted, the number of shares, units or other rights subject to each Award, the exercise, base or purchase price of an Award (if any), the time or times at which an Award will become vested, exercisable or payable, the performance criteria, performance goals and other conditions of an Award, the duration of the Award, and all other terms of the Award. Subject to the terms of the Plan, the Committee shall have the authority to amend the terms of an Award in any manner that is not inconsistent with the Plan (including to extend the post-termination exercisability period of Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights), provided that no such action (except an action relating to a Change in Control) shall materially impair the rights of a Participant with respect to an outstanding Award without the Participant’s consent. For purposes of the foregoing, any action of the Committee that alters or affects the tax treatment of any Award shall not be considered to materially impair any rights of any Participant. The Committee shall also have discretionary authority to interpret the Plan, to make all factual determinations under the Plan, and to make all other determinations necessary or advisable for Plan administration, including, without limitation, to correct any defect, to supply any omission or to reconcile any inconsistency in the Plan or any Award Agreement hereunder. The Committee may prescribe, amend, and rescind rules and regulations relating to the Plan. The Committee’s determinations under the Plan need not be uniform and may be made by the Committee selectively among Participants and Eligible Persons, whether or not such persons are similarly situated. The Committee shall, in its discretion, consider such factors as it deems relevant in making its interpretations, determinations and actions under the Plan including, without limitation, the recommendations or advice of any officer or employee of the Company or such attorneys, consultants, accountants or other advisors as it may select. All interpretations, determinations, and actions by the Committee shall be final, conclusive, and binding upon all parties.

 

3.3           No Liability; Indemnification. Neither the Board nor any Committee member, nor any Person acting at the direction of the Board or the Committee, shall be liable for any act, omission, interpretation, construction or determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan, any Award or any Award Agreement. The Company and its Subsidiaries shall pay or reimburse any member of the Committee, as well as any other Person who takes action on behalf of the Plan, for all reasonable expenses incurred with respect to the Plan, and to the full extent allowable under Applicable Law shall indemnify each and every one of them for any claims, liabilities, and costs (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising out of their good faith performance of duties on behalf of the Company with respect to the Plan. The Company and its Subsidiaries may, but shall not be required to, obtain liability insurance for this purpose.

 

Section 4.              Shares Subject to the Plan

 

4.1           Share Limitation.

 

(a)           Subject to adjustment pursuant to Section 4.3 hereof, the maximum aggregate number of shares of Common Stock which may be issued under all Awards granted to Participants under the Plan shall be 2,000,000 shares (the “Initial Limit”), all of which may, but need not, be issued in respect of Incentive Stock Options. In addition, such Initial Limit will automatically increase on January 1 of each calendar year for a period of ten years commencing on January 1, 2022 and ending on (and including) January 1, 2031, in a number of shares of Common Stock equal to 4.5% of the total number of shares of Common Stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding calendar year; provided, however that the Board may act prior to January 1 of a given calendar year to provide that the increase for such year will be a lesser number of shares of Common Stock.

 

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(b)           Shares of Common Stock issued under the Plan may be either authorized but unissued shares or shares held in the Company’s treasury. Any shares of Common Stock subject to Awards that are settled in Common Stock shall be counted against the maximum share limitations of this Section 4.1(a) as one share of Common Stock for every share of Common Stock subject thereto. To the extent that any Award under the Plan payable in shares of Common Stock is forfeited, cancelled, returned to or repurchased by the Company for failure to satisfy vesting requirements or upon the occurrence of other forfeiture events, or otherwise terminates without payment being made thereunder, the shares of Common Stock covered thereby will no longer be counted against the foregoing maximum share limitations and may again be made subject to Awards under the Plan pursuant to such limitations. Shares of Common Stock that otherwise would have been issued upon the exercise of a Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right or in payment with respect to any other form of Award, that are surrendered in payment or partial payment of the exercise price thereof and/or taxes withheld with respect to the exercise thereof or the making of such payment, will no longer be counted against the foregoing maximum share limitations and may again be made subject to Awards under the Plan pursuant to such limitations.

 

4.2           Individual Participant Limitations. Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4.3, the number of shares of Common Stock with respect to which Awards may be granted during any calendar year to any one Eligible Person who is a non-employee director of the Board shall not exceed 1,000,000.

 

4.3           Adjustments. If there shall occur any change with respect to the outstanding shares of Common Stock by reason of any recapitalization, reclassification, stock dividend, extraordinary dividend, stock split, reverse stock split, or other distribution with respect to the shares of Common Stock, or any merger, reorganization, consolidation, combination, spin-off or other similar corporate change, or any other change affecting the Common Stock, the Committee shall, in the manner and to the extent that it deems appropriate and equitable to the Participants and consistent with the terms of the Plan, cause an adjustment to be made in (i) the maximum numbers and kind of shares provided in Sections 4.1 and 4.2 hereof, (ii) the numbers and kind of shares of Common Stock, units, or other rights subject to then outstanding Awards, (iii) the price for each share or unit or other right subject to then outstanding Awards, (iv) the performance measures or goals relating to the vesting of an Award, and (v) any other terms of an Award that are affected by the event to prevent dilution or enlargement of a Participant’s rights under an Award. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the case of Incentive Stock Options, any such adjustments shall, to the extent practicable, be made in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 424(a) of the Code.

 

Section 5.              Participation and Awards

 

5.1           Designation of Participants. All Eligible Persons are eligible to be designated by the Committee to receive Awards and become Participants under the Plan. The Committee has the authority, in its discretion, to determine and designate from time to time those Eligible Persons who are to be granted Awards, the types of Awards to be granted and the number of shares of Common Stock, units or other amounts subject to such Awards. In selecting Eligible Persons to be Participants and in determining the type and amount of Awards to be granted under the Plan, the Committee shall consider any and all factors that it deems relevant or appropriate.

 

5.2            Determination of Awards. The Committee shall determine the terms and conditions of all Awards granted to Participants in accordance with its authority under Section 3.2 hereof. An Award may consist of one type of right or benefit hereunder or of two or more such rights or benefits granted in tandem or in the alternative. To the extent deemed appropriate by the Committee, an Award shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement as described in Section 15.1 hereof.

 

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Section 6.              Stock Options

 

6.1           Grants of Stock Options. A Stock Option may be granted to any Eligible Person selected by the Committee. Subject to the provisions of Section 6.7 hereof and Section 422 of the Code, each Stock Option shall be designated, in the discretion of the Committee, as an Incentive Stock Option or as a Nonqualified Stock Option.

 

6.2           Exercise Price. The exercise price per share of a Stock Option shall not be less than 100 percent of the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the Date of Grant, subject to adjustments as provided for under Section 4.2, provided that the Committee may in its discretion specify for any Stock Option an exercise price per share that is higher than the Fair Market Value on the Date of Grant and may establish an exercise price that is below Fair Market Value on the Date of Grant for Stock Options granted to Participants who are not residents of the U.S if permitted by applicable law and any applicable rules of the principal established stock exchange or national market system on which the Common Stock is traded.

 

6.3           Vesting of Stock Options. The Committee shall in its discretion prescribe the time or times at which, or the conditions upon which, a Stock Option or portion thereof shall become vested and/or exercisable. The requirements for vesting and exercisability of a Stock Option may be based on the continued Service of the Participant for a specified time period (or periods) and/or on the attainment of a specified performance goal (or goals) established by the Committee in its discretion. The Committee may, in its discretion, accelerate the vesting or exercisability of any Stock Option at any time. The Committee in its sole discretion may allow a Participant to exercise unvested Nonqualified Stock Options, in which case the shares of Common Stock then issued shall be Restricted Stock having analogous vesting restrictions to the unvested Nonqualified Stock Options.

 

6.4           Term of Stock Options. The Committee shall in its discretion prescribe in an Award Agreement the period during which a vested Stock Option may be exercised, provided that the maximum term of a Stock Option shall be ten (10) years from the Date of Grant. A Stock Option may be earlier terminated as specified by the Committee and set forth in an Award Agreement upon or following the termination of a Participant’s Service, including by reason of voluntary resignation, death, Disability, termination for Cause or any other reason. Except as otherwise provided in this Section 6 or in an Award Agreement as such agreement may be amended from time to time upon authorization of the Committee, no Stock Option may be exercised at any time during the term thereof unless the Participant is then in Service. Notwithstanding the foregoing, unless an Award Agreement provides otherwise:

 

(a)            If a Participant’s Service terminates by reason of his or her death, any Stock Option held by such Participant may, to the extent then exercisable, be exercised by such Participant’s estate or any person who acquires the right to exercise such Stock Option by bequest or inheritance at any time in accordance with its terms for up to one year after the date of such Participant’s death (but in no event after the earlier of the expiration of the term of such Stock Option or such time as the Stock Option is otherwise canceled or terminated in accordance with its terms). Upon expiration of such one-year period, no portion of the Stock Option held by such Participant shall be exercisable and the Stock Option shall be deemed to be canceled, forfeited and of no further force or effect.

 

(b)           If a Participant’s Service terminates by reason of his or her Disability, any Stock Option held by such Participant may, to the extent then exercisable, be exercised by the Participant or his or her personal representative at any time in accordance with its terms for up to one year after the date of such Participant’s termination of Service (but in no event after the earlier of the expiration of the term of such Stock Option or such time as the Stock Option is otherwise canceled or terminated in accordance with its terms). Upon expiration of such one-year period, no portion of the Stock Option held by such Participant shall be exercisable and the Stock Option shall be deemed to be canceled, forfeited and of no further force or effect.

 

(c)            If a Participant’s Service terminates for any reason other than death, Disability or Cause, any Stock Option held by such Participant may, to the extent then exercisable, be exercised by the Participant up until ninety (90) days following such termination of Service (but in no event after the earlier of the expiration of the term of such Stock Option or such time as the Stock Option is otherwise canceled or terminated in accordance with its terms). Upon expiration of such 90-day period, no portion of the Stock Option held by such Participant shall be exercisable and the Stock Option shall be deemed to be canceled, forfeited and of no further force or effect.

 

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(d)            If a Participant’s Service terminates for Cause, any Stock Option held by such Participant, whether vested or unvested, shall be deemed forfeited and canceled on the date of such termination of Service.

 

(e)            To the extent that a Stock Option of a Participant whose Service terminates is not exercisable, such Stock Option shall be deemed forfeited and canceled on the ninetieth (90th) day after such termination of Service or at such earlier time as the Committee may determine.

 

6.5           Stock Option Exercise. Subject to such terms and conditions as shall be specified in an Award Agreement, a Stock Option may be exercised in whole or in part at any time during the term thereof by notice in the form required by the Company, and payment of the aggregate exercise price by certified or bank check, or such other means as the Committee may accept. As set forth in an Award Agreement or otherwise determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, at or after grant, payment in full or in part of the exercise price of an Option may be made: (i) in the form of shares of Common Stock that have been held by the Participant for such period as the Committee may deem appropriate for accounting purposes or otherwise, valued at the Fair Market Value of such shares on the date of exercise; (ii) by surrendering to the Company shares of Common Stock otherwise receivable on exercise of the Option; (iii) by a cashless exercise program implemented by the Committee in connection with the Plan; and/or (iv) by such other method as may be approved by the Committee and set forth in an Award Agreement. Subject to any governing rules or regulations, as soon as practicable after receipt of written notification of exercise and full payment of the exercise price and satisfaction of any applicable tax withholding pursuant to Section 16.5, the Company shall deliver to the Participant evidence of book entry shares of Common Stock, or upon the Participant’s request, Common Stock certificates in an appropriate amount based upon the number of shares of Common Stock purchased under the Option. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, all payments under all of the methods indicated above shall be paid in United States dollars or shares of Common Stock, as applicable.

 

6.6           Reload Options. The Committee may in its discretion include in any Award Agreement with respect to an option (the “original option”) a provision that an additional option (the “additional option”) shall be granted to any Participant who, pursuant to Section 6.5, delivers shares of the Common Stock in partial or full payment of the exercise price of the original option. The additional option shall be for a number of shares of the Common Stock equal to the number thus delivered, shall have an exercise price equal to the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date of exercise of the original option, and shall have an expiration date no later than the expiration date of the original option. In the event that an Award Agreement provides for the grant of an additional option, such Award Agreement shall also provide that the exercise price of the original option be no less than the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock on its date of grant, and that any shares that are delivered pursuant to Section 6.5 in payment of such exercise price shall have been held for at least six months.

 

6.7           Additional Rules for Incentive Stock Options.

 

(a)            Eligibility. An Incentive Stock Option may only be granted to an Eligible Person who is considered an employee under Treasury Regulation §1.421-7(h) of the Company or any Subsidiary.

 

(b)           Annual Limits. No Incentive Stock Option shall be granted to an Eligible Person as a result of which the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined as of the Date of Grant) of the stock with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time in any calendar year under the Plan and any other stock option plans of the Company or any Subsidiary would exceed $500,000, determined in accordance with Section 422(d) of the Code. This limitation shall be applied by taking Incentive Stock Options into account in the order in which granted.

 

(c)            Ten Percent Stockholders. If a Stock Option granted under the Plan is intended to be an Incentive Stock Option, and if the Participant, at the time of grant, owns stock possessing ten percent or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of Common Stock of the Company or any Subsidiary, then (A) the Stock Option exercise price per share shall in no event be less than 110 percent of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the date of such grant and (B) such Stock Option shall not be exercisable after the expiration of five (5) years following the date such Stock Option is granted.

 

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(d)            Disqualifying Dispositions. If shares of Common Stock acquired by exercise of an Incentive Stock Option are disposed of within two (2) years following the Date of Grant or one (1) year following the transfer of such shares to the Participant upon exercise, the Participant shall, promptly following such disposition, notify the Company in writing of the date and terms of such disposition and provide such other information regarding the disposition as the Company may reasonably require.

 

Section 7.              Stock Appreciation Rights

 

7.1          Grant of Stock Appreciation Rights. A Stock Appreciation Right may be granted to any Eligible Person selected by the Committee. Stock Appreciation Rights may be granted on a basis that allows for the exercise of the right by the Participant or that provides for the automatic payment of the right upon a specified date or event.

 

7.2           Base Price. The base price of a Stock Appreciation Right shall be determined by the Committee in its sole discretion; provided, however, that the base price for any grant of a Stock Appreciation Right shall not be less than 100 percent of the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the Date of Grant, subject to adjustments as provided for under Section 4.2.

 

7.3           Vesting Stock Appreciation Rights. The Committee shall in its discretion prescribe the time or times at which, or the conditions upon which, a Stock Appreciation Right or portion thereof shall become vested and/or exercisable. The requirements for vesting and exercisability of a Stock Appreciation Right may be based on the continued Service of a Participant for a specified time period (or periods) or on the attainment of a specified performance goal (or goals) established by the Committee in its discretion. The Committee may, in its discretion, accelerate the vesting or exercisability of any Stock Appreciation Right at any time.

 

7.4           Term of Stock Appreciation Rights. The Committee shall in its discretion prescribe in an Award Agreement the period during which a vested Stock Appreciation Right may be exercised, provided that the maximum term of a Stock Appreciation Right shall be ten (10) years from the Date of Grant. A Stock Appreciation Right may be earlier terminated as specified by the Committee and set forth in an Award Agreement upon or following the termination of a Participant’s Service, including by reason of voluntary resignation, death, Disability, termination for Cause or any other reason. Except as otherwise provided in this Section 7 or in an Award Agreement as such agreement may be amended from time to time upon authorization of the Committee, no Stock Appreciation Right may be exercised at any time during the term thereof unless the Participant is then in the Service of the Company or one of its Subsidiaries.

 

7.5          Payment of Stock Appreciation Rights. Subject to such terms and conditions as shall be specified in an Award Agreement, a vested Stock Appreciation Right may be exercised in whole or in part at any time during the term thereof by notice in the form required by the Company and payment of any exercise price. Upon the exercise of a Stock Appreciation Right and payment of any applicable exercise price, a Participant shall be entitled to receive an amount determined by multiplying: (i) the excess of the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date of exercise of the Stock Appreciation Right over the base price of such Stock Appreciation Right, by (ii) the number of shares as to which such Stock Appreciation Right is exercised. Payment of the amount determined under the immediately preceding sentence may be made, as approved by the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement, in shares of Common Stock valued at their Fair Market Value on the date of exercise, in cash, or in a combination of shares of Common Stock and cash, subject to applicable tax withholding requirements set forth in Section 16.5. If Stock Appreciation Rights are settled in shares of Common Stock, then as soon as practicable following the date of settlement the Company shall deliver to the Participant evidence of book entry shares of Common Stock, or upon the Participant’s request, Common Stock certificates in an appropriate amount.

 

Section 8.              Restricted Stock Awards

 

8.1           Grant of Restricted Stock Awards. A Restricted Stock Award may be granted to any Eligible Person selected by the Committee. The Committee may require the payment by the Participant of a specified purchase price in connection with any Restricted Stock Award. The Committee may provide in an Award Agreement for the payment of dividends and distributions to the Participant at such times as paid to stockholders generally or at the times of vesting or other payment of the Restricted Stock Award. If any dividends or distributions are paid in stock while a Restricted Stock Award is subject to restrictions under Section 8.3 of the Plan, the dividends or other distributions shares shall be subject to the same restrictions on transferability as the shares of Common Stock to which they were paid unless otherwise set forth in the Award Agreement. The Committee may also subject the grant of any Restricted Stock Award to the execution of a voting agreement with the Company or with any Affiliate of the Company.

 

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8.2           Vesting Requirements. The restrictions imposed on shares of Common Stock granted under a Restricted Stock Award shall lapse in accordance with the vesting requirements specified by the Committee in the Award Agreement. Upon vesting of a Restricted Stock Award, such Award shall be subject to the tax withholding requirement set forth in Section 14.5. The requirements for vesting of a Restricted Stock Award may be based on the continued Service of the Participant for a specified time period (or periods) or on the attainment of a specified performance goal (or goals) established by the Committee in its discretion. The Committee may, in its discretion, accelerate the vesting of a Restricted Stock Award at any time. If the vesting requirements of a Restricted Stock Award shall not be satisfied, the Award shall be forfeited and the shares of Common Stock subject to the Award shall be returned to the Company. In the event that the Participant paid any purchase price with respect to such forfeited shares, unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award Agreement, the Company will refund to the Participant the lesser of (i) such purchase price and (ii) the Fair Market Value of such shares on the date of forfeiture.

 

8.3           Restrictions. Shares granted under any Restricted Stock Award may not be transferred, assigned or subject to any encumbrance, pledge, or charge until all applicable restrictions are removed or have expired, unless otherwise allowed by the Committee. The Committee may require in an Award Agreement that certificates representing the shares granted under a Restricted Stock Award bear a legend making appropriate reference to the restrictions imposed, and that certificates representing the shares granted or sold under a Restricted Stock Award will remain in the physical custody of an escrow holder until all restrictions are removed or have expired.

 

8.4           Rights as Stockholder. Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Section 8 and the applicable Award Agreement, the Participant to whom a Restricted Stock Award is made shall have all rights of a stockholder with respect to the shares granted to the Participant under the Restricted Stock Award, including the right to vote the shares and receive all dividends and other distributions paid or made with respect thereto, unless the Committee determines otherwise at the time the Restricted Stock Award is granted.

 

8.5           Section 83(b) Election. If a Participant makes an election pursuant to Section 83(b) of the Code with respect to a Restricted Stock Award, the Participant shall file, within 30 days following the Date of Grant, a copy of such election with the Company (directed to the Secretary thereof) and with the Internal Revenue Service, in accordance with the regulations under Section 83 of the Code. The Committee may provide in an Award Agreement that the Restricted Stock Award is conditioned upon the Participant’s making or refraining from making an election with respect to the Award under Section 83(b) of the Code.

 

Section 9.              Stock Unit Awards

 

9.1           Grant of Stock Unit Awards. A Stock Unit Award may be granted to any Eligible Person selected by the Committee. The value of each Stock Unit under a Stock Unit Award is equal to the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the applicable date or time period of determination, as specified by the Committee. A Stock Unit Award shall be subject to such restrictions and conditions as the Committee shall determine. A Stock Unit Award may be granted together with a dividend equivalent right with respect to the shares of Common Stock subject to the Award, which may be accumulated and may be deemed reinvested in additional Stock Units, as determined by the Committee in its discretion. If any dividend equivalents are paid while a Stock Unit Award is subject to restrictions under Section 9 of the Plan, the dividend equivalents shall be subject to the same restrictions on transferability as the Stock Units to which they were paid, unless otherwise set forth in the Award Agreement.

 

9.2           Vesting of Stock Unit Awards. On the Date of Grant, the Committee shall, in its discretion, determine any vesting requirements with respect to a Stock Unit Award, which shall be set forth in the Award Agreement. The requirements for vesting of a Stock Unit Award may be based on the continued Service of the Participant for a specified time period (or periods) or on the attainment of a specified performance goal (or goals) established by the Committee in its discretion. The Committee may, in its discretion, accelerate the vesting of a Stock Unit Award at any time. A Stock Unit Award may also be granted on a fully vested basis, with a deferred payment date as may be determined by the Committee or elected by the Participant in accordance with rules established by the Committee.

 

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9.3           Payment of Stock Unit Awards. A Stock Unit Award shall become payable to a Participant at the time or times determined by the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement, which may be upon or following the vesting of the Award. Payment of a Stock Unit Award may be made, at the discretion of the Committee, in cash or in shares of Common Stock, or in a combination thereof as described in the Award Agreement, subject to applicable tax withholding requirements set forth in Section 16.5. Any cash payment of a Stock Unit Award shall be made based upon the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock, determined on such date or over such time period as determined by the Committee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, unless specified otherwise in the Award Agreement, any Stock Unit, whether settled in Common Stock or cash, shall be paid no later than two and one-half months after the later of the calendar year or fiscal year in which the Stock Units vest. If Stock Unit Awards are settled in shares of Common Stock, then as soon as practicable following the date of settlement the Company shall deliver to the Participant evidence of book entry shares of Common Stock, or upon the Participant’s request, Common Stock certificates in an appropriate amount.

 

Section 10.            Performance Shares

 

10.1         Grant of Performance Shares. Performance Shares may be granted to any Eligible Person selected by the Committee. A Performance Share Award shall be subject to such restrictions and condition as the Committee shall specify. A Performance Share Award may be granted with a dividend equivalent right with respect to the shares of Common Stock subject to the Award, which may be accumulated and may be deemed reinvested in additional Stock Units, as determined by the Committee in its discretion.

 

10.2         Value of Performance Shares. Each Performance Share shall have an initial value equal to the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date. The Committee shall set performance goals in its discretion that, depending on the extent to which they are met over a specified time period, shall determine the number of Performance Shares that shall be paid to a Participant.

 

10.3         Earning of Performance Shares. After the applicable time period has ended, the number of Performance Shares earned by the Participant over such time period shall be determined as a function of the extent to which the applicable corresponding performance goals have been achieved. This determination shall be made solely by the Committee. The Committee may, in its discretion, waive any performance or vesting conditions relating to a Performance Share Award.

 

10.4         Form and Timing of Payment of Performance Shares. The Committee shall pay at the close of the applicable Performance Period, or as soon as practicable thereafter, any earned Performance Shares in the form of cash or in shares of Common Stock or in a combination thereof, as specified in a Participant’s Award Agreement, subject to applicable tax withholding requirements set forth in Section 16.5. Notwithstanding the foregoing, unless specified otherwise in the Award Agreement, all Performance Shares shall be paid no later than two and one-half months following the later of the calendar year or fiscal year in which such Performance Shares vest. Any shares of Common Stock paid to a Participant under this Section 10.4 may be subject to any restrictions deemed appropriate by the Committee. If Performance Shares are settled in shares of Common Stock, then as soon as practicable following the date of settlement the Company shall deliver to the Participant evidence of book entry shares of Common Stock, or upon the Participant’s request, Common Stock certificates in an appropriate amount.

 

Section 11.            Performance Units

 

11.1        Grant of Performance Units. Performance Units may be granted to any Eligible Person selected by the Committee. A Performance Unit Award shall be subject to such restrictions and conditions as the Committee shall specify in a Participant’s Award Agreement.

 

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11.2        Value of Performance Units. Each Performance Unit shall have an initial notional value equal to a dollar amount determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion. The Committee shall set performance goals in its discretion that, depending on the extent to which they are met over a specified time period, will determine the number of Performance Units that shall be settled and paid to the Participant.

 

11.3         Earning of Performance Units. After the applicable time period has ended, the number of Performance Units earned by the Participant, and the amount payable in cash, in shares or in a combination thereof, over such time period shall be determined as a function of the extent to which the applicable corresponding performance goals have been achieved. This determination shall be made solely by the Committee. The Committee may, in its discretion, waive any performance or vesting conditions relating to a Performance Unit Award.

 

11.4         Form and Timing of Payment of Performance Units. The Committee shall pay at the close of the applicable Performance Period, or as soon as practicable thereafter, any earned Performance Units in the form of cash or in shares of Common Stock or in a combination thereof, as specified in a Participant’s Award Agreement, subject to applicable tax withholding requirements set forth in Section 16.5. Notwithstanding the foregoing, unless specified otherwise in the Award Agreement, all Performance Units shall be paid no later than two and one-half months following the later of the calendar year or fiscal year in which such Performance Units vest. Any shares of Common Stock paid to a Participant under this Section 11.4 may be subject to any restrictions deemed appropriate by the Committee. If Performance Units are settled in shares of Common Stock, then as soon as practicable following the date of settlement the Company shall deliver to the Participant evidence of book entry shares of Common Stock, or upon the Participant’s request, Common Stock certificates in an appropriate amount.

 

Section 12.            Incentive Bonus Awards

 

12.1        Incentive Bonus Awards. The Committee, at its discretion, may grant Incentive Bonus Awards to such Participants as it may designate from time to time. The terms of a Participant’s Incentive Bonus Award shall be set forth in the Participant’s Award Agreement. Each Award Agreement shall specify such general terms and conditions as the Committee shall determine.

 

12.2         Incentive Bonus Award Performance Criteria. The determination of Incentive Bonus Awards for a given year or years may be based upon the attainment of specified levels of Company or Subsidiary performance as measured by pre-established, objective performance criteria determined at the discretion of the Committee. The Committee shall (i) select those Participants who shall be eligible to receive an Incentive Bonus Award, (ii) determine the performance period, (iii) determine target levels of performance, and (iv) determine the level of Incentive Bonus Award to be paid to each selected Participant upon the achievement of each performance level. The Committee generally shall make the foregoing determinations prior to the commencement of services to which an Incentive Bonus Award relates, to the extent applicable, and while the outcome of the performance goals and targets is uncertain.

 

12.3         Payment of Incentive Bonus Awards.

 

(a)           Incentive Bonus Awards shall be paid in cash or Common Stock, as set forth in a Participant’s Award Agreement. Payments shall be made following a determination by the Committee that the performance targets were attained and shall be made within two and one-half months after the later of the end of the fiscal or calendar year in which the Incentive Award is no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture.

 

(b)           The amount of an Incentive Bonus Award to be paid upon the attainment of each targeted level of performance shall equal a percentage of a Participant’s base salary for the fiscal year, a fixed dollar amount, or such other formula, as determined by the Committee.

 

Section 13.            Other Cash-Based Awards and Other Stock-Based Awards

 

13.1         Other Cash-Based and Stock-Based Awards. The Committee may grant other types of equity-based or equity-related Awards not otherwise described by the terms of this Plan (including the grant or offer for sale of unrestricted Shares) in such amounts and subject to such terms and conditions, as the Committee shall determine. Such Awards may involve the transfer of actual shares of Common Stock to a Participant, or payment in cash or otherwise of amounts based on the value of shares of Common Stock. In addition, the Committee, at any time and from time to time, may grant Cash-Based Awards to a Participant in such amounts and upon such terms as the Committee shall determine, in its sole discretion.

 

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13.2         Value of Cash-Based Awards and Other Stock-Based Awards. Each Other Stock-Based Award shall be expressed in terms of shares of Common Stock or units based on shares of Common Stock, as determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion. Each Other Cash-Based Award shall specify a payment amount or payment range as determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion. If the Committee exercises its discretion to establish performance goals, the value of Other Cash-Based Awards that shall be paid to the Participant will depend on the extent to which such performance goals are met.

 

13.3         Payment of Cash-Based Awards and Other Stock-Based Awards. Payment, if any, with respect to Other Cash-Based Awards and Other Stock-Based Award shall be made in accordance with the terms of the Award, in cash or Shares as the Committee determines.

 

14.          Change in Control

 

14.1         Effect of Change in Control.

 

(a)            The Committee may, at the time of the grant of an Award and as set forth in an Award Agreement, provide for the effect of a “Change in Control” on an Award. Such provisions may include any one or more of the following: (i) the acceleration or extension of time periods for purposes of exercising, vesting in, or realizing gain from any Award, (ii) the elimination or modification of performance or other conditions related to the payment or other rights under an Award, (iii) provision for the cash settlement of an Award for an equivalent cash value, as determined by the Committee, or (iv) such other modification or adjustment to an Award as the Committee deems appropriate to maintain and protect the rights and interests of Participants upon or following a Change in Control. To the extent necessary for compliance with Section 409A of the Code, an Award Agreement shall provide that an Award subject to the requirements of Section 409A that would otherwise become payable upon a Change in Control shall only become payable to the extent that the requirements for a “change in control” for purposes of Section 409A have been satisfied.

 

(b)           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in the Plan, unless otherwise provided by an Award Agreement, upon or in anticipation of any Change in Control, the Committee may, in its sole and absolute discretion and without the need for the consent of any Participant, take one or more of the following actions contingent upon the occurrence of that Change in Control: (i) cause any or all outstanding Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights held by Participants affected by the Change in Control to become vested and immediately exercisable, in whole or in part; (ii) cause any or all outstanding Restricted Stock, Stock Units, Performance Shares, Performance Units, Incentive Bonus Award and any other Award held by Participants affected by the Change in Control to become non-forfeitable, in whole or in part; (iii) cancel any Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right in exchange for a substitute option in a manner consistent with the requirements of Treasury Regulation §1.424-1(a) or §1.409A-1(b)(5)(v)(D), as applicable (notwithstanding the fact that the original Stock Option may never have been intended to satisfy the requirements for treatment as an Incentive Stock Option); (iv) cancel any Restricted Stock, Stock Units, Performance Shares or Performance Units held by a Participant in exchange for restricted stock or performance shares of or stock or performance units in respect of the capital stock of any successor corporation; (v) redeem any Restricted Stock held by a Participant affected by the Change in Control for cash and/or other substitute consideration with a value equal to the Fair Market Value of an unrestricted share of Common Stock on the date of the Change in Control; (vi) terminate any Award in exchange for an amount of cash and/or property equal to the amount, if any, that would have been attained upon the exercise of such Award or realization of the Participant’s rights as of the date of the occurrence of the Change in Control (the “Change in Control Consideration”); provided, however that if the Change in Control Consideration with respect to any Option or Stock Appreciation Right does not exceed the exercise price of such Option or Stock Appreciation Right, the Committee may cancel the Option or Stock Appreciation Right without payment of any consideration therefor. Any such Change in Control Consideration may be subject to any escrow, indemnification and similar obligations, contingencies and encumbrances applicable in connection with the Change in Control to holders of Common Stock. Without limitation of the foregoing, if as of the date of the occurrence of the Change in Control the Committee determines that no amount would have been attained upon the realization of the Participant’s rights, then such Award may be terminated by the Company without payment. The Committee may cause the Change in Control Consideration to be subject to vesting conditions (whether or not the same as the vesting conditions applicable to the Award prior to the Change in Control) and/or make such other modifications, adjustments or amendments to outstanding Awards or this Plan as the Committee deems necessary or appropriate.

 

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(c)            The Committee may require a Participant to (i) represent and warrant as to the unencumbered title to the Participant’s Awards, (ii) bear such Participant’s pro rata share of any post-closing indemnity obligations, and be subject to the same or similar post-closing purchase price adjustments, escrow terms, offset rights, holdback terms and similar conditions as the other holders of Common Stock, and (iii) execute and deliver such documents and instruments as the Committee may reasonably require for the Participant to be bound by such obligations. The Committee will endeavor to take action under this Section 14 in a manner that does not cause a violation of Section 409A of the Code with respect to an Award.

 

15.           General Provisions

 

15.1         Award Agreement. To the extent deemed necessary by the Committee, an Award under the Plan shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement in a written or electronic form approved by the Committee setting forth the number of shares of Common Stock or units subject to the Award, the exercise price, base price, or purchase price of the Award, the time or times at which an Award will become vested, exercisable or payable and the term of the Award. The Award Agreement may also set forth the effect on an Award of termination of Service under certain circumstances. The Award Agreement shall be subject to and incorporate, by reference or otherwise, all of the applicable terms and conditions of the Plan and may also set forth other terms and conditions applicable to the Award as determined by the Committee consistent with the limitations of the Plan. Award Agreements evidencing Incentive Stock Options shall contain such terms and conditions as may be necessary to meet the applicable provisions of Section 422 of the Code. The grant of an Award under the Plan shall not confer any rights upon the Participant holding such Award other than such terms, and subject to such conditions, as are specified in the Plan as being applicable to such type of Award (or to all Awards) or as are expressly set forth in the Award Agreement.

 

15.2         Forfeiture Events/Representations. The Committee may specify in an Award Agreement at the time of the Award that the Participant’s rights, payments, and benefits with respect to an Award shall be subject to reduction, cancellation, forfeiture or recoupment upon the occurrence of certain specified events, in addition to any otherwise applicable vesting or performance conditions of an Award. Such events shall include, but shall not be limited to, termination of Service for Cause, violation of material Company policies, breach of noncompetition, confidentiality or other restrictive covenants that may apply to the Participant, or other conduct by the Participant that is detrimental to the business or reputation of the Company. The Committee may also specify in an Award Agreement that the Participant’s rights, payments and benefits with respect to an Award shall be conditioned upon the Participant making a representation regarding compliance with noncompetition, confidentiality or other restrictive covenants that may apply to the Participant and providing that the Participant’s rights, payments and benefits with respect to an Award shall be subject to reduction, cancellation, forfeiture or recoupment on account of a breach of such representation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the confidentiality restrictions set forth in an Award Agreement shall not, and shall not be interpreted to, impair a Participant from exercising any legally protected whistleblower rights (including under Rule 21 of the Exchange Act). In addition, and without limitation of the foregoing, any amounts paid hereunder shall be subject to recoupment in accordance with The Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and any implementing regulations thereunder, any “clawback” policy adopted by the Company or as is otherwise required by applicable law or stock exchange listing condition.

 

15.3         No Assignment or Transfer; Beneficiaries.

 

(a)            Awards under the Plan shall not be assignable or transferable by the Participant, except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and shall not be subject in any manner to assignment, alienation, pledge, encumbrance or charge. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may provide in an Award Agreement that the Participant shall have the right to designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries who shall be entitled to any rights, payments or other benefits specified under an Award following the Participant’s death. During the lifetime of a Participant, an Award shall be exercised only by such Participant or such Participant’s guardian or legal representative. In the event of a Participant’s death, an Award may, to the extent permitted by the Award Agreement, be exercised by the Participant’s beneficiary as designated by the Participant in the manner prescribed by the Committee or, in the absence of an authorized beneficiary designation, by the legatee of such Award under the Participant’s will or by the Participant’s estate in accordance with the Participant’s will or the laws of descent and distribution, in each case in the same manner and to the same extent that such Award was exercisable by the Participant on the date of the Participant’s death.

 

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(b)            Limited Transferability Rights. Notwithstanding anything else in this Section 15.3 to the contrary, the Committee may in its discretion provide in an Award Agreement that an Award in the form of a Nonqualified Stock Option, share-settled Stock Appreciation Right, Restricted Stock, Performance Share or share-settled Other Stock-Based Award may be transferred, on such terms and conditions as the Committee deems appropriate, either (i) by instrument to the Participant’s “Immediate Family” (as defined below), (ii) by instrument to an inter vivos or testamentary trust (or other entity) in which the Award is to be passed to the Participant’s designated beneficiaries, or (iii) by gift to charitable institutions. Any transferee of the Participant’s rights shall succeed and be subject to all of the terms of the applicable Award Agreement and the Plan. “Immediate Family” means any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, former spouse, sibling, niece, nephew, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, and shall include adoptive relationships.

 

15.4         Rights as Stockholder. A Participant shall have no rights as a holder of shares of Common Stock with respect to any unissued securities covered by an Award until the date the Participant becomes the holder of record of such securities. Except as provided in Section 4.2 hereof, no adjustment or other provision shall be made for dividends or other stockholder rights, except to the extent that the Award Agreement provides for dividend payments or dividend equivalent rights.

 

15.5         Employment or Service. Nothing in the Plan, in the grant of any Award or in any Award Agreement shall confer upon any Eligible Person or Participant any right to continue in Service or interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries to terminate the employment or other service relationship of an Eligible Person or Participant for any reason at any time.

 

15.6         Fractional Shares. In the case of any fractional share or unit resulting from the grant, vesting, payment or crediting of dividends or dividend equivalents under an Award, the Committee shall have the discretionary authority to (i) disregard such fractional share or unit, (ii) round such fractional share or unit to the nearest lower or higher whole share or unit, or (iii) convert such fractional share or unit into a right to receive a cash payment.

 

15.7         Other Compensation and Benefit Plans. The amount of any compensation deemed to be received by a Participant pursuant to an Award shall not constitute includable compensation for purposes of determining the amount of benefits to which a Participant is entitled under any other compensation or benefit plan or program of the Company or any Subsidiary, including, without limitation, under any bonus, pension, profit-sharing, life insurance, salary continuation or severance benefits plan, except to the extent specifically provided by the terms of any such plan.

 

15.8         Plan Binding on Transferees. The Plan shall be binding upon the Company, its transferees and assigns, and the Participant, the Participant’s executor, administrator and permitted transferees and beneficiaries. In addition, all obligations of the Company under this Plan with respect to Awards granted hereunder shall be binding on any successor to the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or indirect purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise, of all or substantially all of the business and/or assets of the Company.

 

15.9         Foreign Jurisdictions. The Committee may adopt, amend and terminate such arrangements and grant such Awards, not inconsistent with the intent of the Plan, as it may deem necessary or desirable to comply with any tax, securities, regulatory or other laws of other jurisdictions with respect to Awards that may be subject to such laws. The terms and conditions of such Awards may vary from the terms and conditions that would otherwise be required by the Plan solely to the extent the Committee deems necessary for such purpose. Moreover, the Board may approve such supplements to or amendments, restatements, or alternative versions of the Plan, not inconsistent with the intent of the Plan, as it may consider necessary or appropriate for such purposes, without thereby affecting the terms of the Plan as in effect for any other purpose.

 

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15.10       Substitute Awards in Corporate Transactions. Nothing contained in the Plan shall be construed to limit the right of the Committee to grant Awards under the Plan in connection with the acquisition, whether by purchase, merger, consolidation, or other corporate transaction, of the business or assets of any corporation or other entity. Without limiting the foregoing, the Committee may grant Awards under the Plan to an employee or director of another corporation who becomes an Eligible Person by reason of any such corporate transaction in substitution for Awards previously granted by such corporation or entity to such person. The terms and conditions of the substitute Awards may vary from the terms and conditions that would otherwise be required by the Plan solely to the extent the Committee deems necessary for such purpose. Any shares of Common Stock subject to these substitute Awards shall not be counted against any of the maximum share limitations set forth in the Plan.

 

Section 16.            Legal Compliance

 

16.1         Securities Laws. No shares of Common Stock will be issued or transferred pursuant to an Award unless and until all then applicable requirements imposed by Federal and state securities and other laws, rules and regulations and by any regulatory agencies having jurisdiction, and by any exchanges upon which the shares of Common Stock may be listed, have been fully met. As a condition precedent to the issuance of shares pursuant to the grant or exercise of an Award, the Company may require the Participant to take any reasonable action to meet such requirements. The Committee may impose such conditions on any shares of Common Stock issuable under the Plan as it may deem advisable, including, without limitation, restrictions under the Securities Act, as amended, under the requirements of any exchange upon which such shares of the same class are then listed, and under any blue sky or other securities laws applicable to such shares. The Committee may also require the Participant to represent and warrant at the time of issuance or transfer that the shares of Common Stock are being acquired only for investment purposes and without any current intention to sell or distribute such shares. All Common Stock issued pursuant to the terms of this Plan shall constitute “restricted securities,” as that term is defined in Rule 144 promulgated pursuant to the Securities Act and may not be transferred except in compliance herewith and with the registration requirements of the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom. Certificates representing Common Stock acquired pursuant to an Award may bear such legend as the Company may consider appropriate under the circumstances.

 

16.2         Incentive Arrangement. The Plan is designed to provide an ongoing, pecuniary incentive for Participants to produce their best efforts to increase the value of the Company. The Plan is not intended to provide retirement income or to defer the receipt of payments hereunder to the termination of a Participant’s employment or beyond. The Plan is thus intended not to be a pension or welfare benefit plan that is subject to Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) and shall be construed accordingly. All interpretations and determinations hereunder shall be made on a basis consistent with the Plan’s status as not an employee benefit plan subject to ERISA.

 

16.3         Unfunded Plan. The adoption of the Plan and any reservation of shares of Common Stock or cash amounts by the Company to discharge its obligations hereunder shall not be deemed to create a trust or other funded arrangement. Except upon the issuance of Common Stock pursuant to an Award, any rights of a Participant under the Plan shall be those of a general unsecured creditor of the Company, and neither a Participant nor the Participant’s permitted transferees or estate shall have any other interest in any assets of the Company by virtue of the Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall have the right to implement or set aside funds in a grantor trust, subject to the claims of the Company’s creditors or otherwise, to discharge its obligations under the Plan.

 

16.4         Section 409A Compliance. To the extent applicable, it is intended that the Plan and all Awards hereunder comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code or an exemption thereto, and the Plan and all Award Agreements shall be interpreted and applied by the Committee in a manner consistent with this intent in order to avoid the imposition of any additional tax under Section 409A of the Code. Notwithstanding anything in the Plan to the contrary, in the event that any provision of the Plan or an Award Agreement is determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, to not comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code or an exemption thereto, the Committee shall, in its sole discretion, have the authority to take such actions and to make such interpretations or changes to the Plan or an Award Agreement as the Committee deems necessary, regardless of whether such actions, interpretations or changes shall adversely affect a Participant, subject to the limitations, if any, of applicable law. If an Award is subject to Section 409A of the Code, any payment made to a Participant who is a “specified employee” of the Company or any Subsidiary shall not be made before the date that is six months after the Participant’s “separation from service” to the extent required to avoid the adverse consequences of Section 409A of the Code. For purposes of this Section 16.4, the terms “separation from service” and “specified employee” shall have the meanings set forth in Section 409A of the Code. In no event whatsoever shall the Company be liable for any additional tax, interest or penalties that may be imposed on any Participant by Section 409A of the Code or any damages for failing to comply with Section 409A of the Code.

 

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16.5         Tax Withholding.

 

(a)            The Company shall have the power and the right to deduct or withhold, or require a participant to remit to the Company, the minimum statutory amount to satisfy federal, state, and local taxes, domestic or foreign, required by law or regulation to be withheld with respect to any taxable event arising as a result of this Plan, but in no event shall such deduction or withholding or remittance exceed the minimum statutory withholding requirements unless permitted by the Company and such additional withholding amount will not cause adverse accounting consequences and is permitted under Applicable Law. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a minimum statutory amount of withholding does not apply under the laws of any foreign jurisdiction, the Company may withhold such amount for remittance to the applicable taxing authority of such jurisdiction as the Company determines in its discretion, uniformly applied, to be appropriate.

 

(b)           A Participant may, in order to fulfill the withholding obligation, tender previously-acquired shares of Common Stock or have shares of stock withheld from the exercise, provided that the shares have an aggregate Fair Market Value sufficient to satisfy in whole or in part the applicable withholding taxes. The broker-assisted exercise procedure described in Section 6.5 may also be utilized to satisfy the withholding requirements related to the exercise of a Stock Option.

 

(c)           Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Participant may not use shares of Common Stock to satisfy the withholding requirements to the extent that (i) there is a substantial likelihood that the use of such form of payment or the timing of such form of payment would subject the Participant to a substantial risk of liability under Section 16 of the Exchange Act; (ii) such withholding would constitute a violation of the provisions of any law or regulation (including the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002); or (iii) such withholding would cause adverse accounting consequences for the Company.

 

16.6         No Guarantee of Tax Consequences. Neither the Company, the Board, the Committee nor any other Person make any commitment or guarantee that any federal, state, local or foreign tax treatment will apply or be available to any Participant or any other person hereunder.

 

16.7        Severability. If any provision of the Plan or any Award Agreement shall be determined to be illegal or unenforceable by any court of law in any jurisdiction, the remaining provisions hereof and thereof shall be severable and enforceable in accordance with their terms, and all provisions shall remain enforceable in any other jurisdiction.

 

16.8        Stock Certificates; Book Entry FormNotwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, unless otherwise determined by the Committee or required by any applicable law, rule or regulation, any obligation set forth in the Plan pertaining to the delivery or issuance of stock certificates evidencing shares of Common Stock may be satisfied by having issuance and/or ownership of such shares recorded on the books and records of the Company (or, as applicable, its transfer agent or stock plan administrator).

 

16.9         Governing Law. The Plan and all rights hereunder shall be subject to and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without reference to the principles of conflicts of laws, and to applicable Federal securities laws.

 

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Section 17.            Effective Date, Amendment and Termination

 

17.1         Effective Date. The effective date of the Plan shall be the date on which the Plan is approved by the Board; provided, however, that Awards granted under the Plan subsequent to the approval of the Plan by the Board shall be valid only if the Plan is approved by the requisite percentage of the holders of the Common Stock of the Company within one year of the date on which such Board approval occurs. If such stockholder approval is not obtained within one year after the date of the Board’s approval of the Plan, then all Awards previously granted under the Plan shall terminate and cease to be outstanding, and no further Awards shall be granted under the Plan.

 

17.2         Amendment; Termination. The Board may suspend or terminate the Plan (or any portion thereof) at any time and may amend the Plan at any time and from time to time in such respects as the Board may deem advisable or in the best interests of the Company or any Subsidiary; provided, however, that (a) no such amendment, suspension or termination shall materially impair any rights or materially increase any obligations under any Award theretofore made under the Plan without the consent of the Participant affected thereby (or, after the Participant’s death, the person having the right to exercise the Award), (b) to the extent necessary and desirable to comply with any applicable law, regulation, or stock exchange rule, the Company shall obtain stockholder approval of any Plan amendment in such a manner and to such a degree as required, and (c) stockholder approval is required for any amendment to the Plan that (i) increases the number of shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Plan, or (ii) changes the persons or class of persons eligible to receive Awards. For purposes of the foregoing, any action of the Board or the Committee that alters or affects the tax treatment of any Award shall not be considered to materially impair any rights of any Participant. The Plan will continue in effect until terminated in accordance with this Section 17.2; provided, however, that no Award will be granted hereunder on or after the 10th anniversary of the date of the adoption of the Plan by the Board (the “Expiration Date”); but provided further, that Awards granted prior to such Expiration Date may extend beyond that date.

 

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FORM OF

 

INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION GRANT AGREEMENT

 

TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO. 2021 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

 

This Stock Option Grant Agreement (the “Grant Agreement”) is made and entered into effective on the Date of Grant set forth in Exhibit A (the “Date of Grant”) by and between Twin Vee PowerCats Co. a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and the individual named in Exhibit A hereto (the “Optionee”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to provide the Optionee an incentive to participate in the success and growth of the Company through the opportunity to earn a proprietary interest in the Company; and

 

WHEREAS, to give effect to the foregoing intention, the Company desires to grant the Optionee an option pursuant to the Twin Vee PowerCats Co. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) to acquire the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”);

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter set forth and for good and valuable consideration, the parties hereto agree as follows:

 

1.             Grant. The Company hereby grants the Optionee a Nonqualified Stock Option (the “Option”) to purchase up to the number of shares of Common Stock (the “Shares”) set forth in Exhibit A hereto at the exercise price per Share (the “Exercise Price”) set forth in Exhibit A, and on the vesting schedule set forth in Exhibit A, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein and the provisions of the Plan, the terms of which are incorporated herein by reference. Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined in this Grant Agreement shall have the meanings as set forth in the Plan.

 

This Option is intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option (“ISO”) under Section 422 of the Code. However, notwithstanding such designation, if the Optionee becomes eligible in any given year to exercise ISOs for Shares having a Fair Market Value in excess of $100,000, those options representing the excess shall be treated as Nonqualified Stock Options. In the previous sentence, “ISOs” include ISOs granted under any plan of the Company or any parent or any Subsidiary of the Company. For the purpose of deciding which options apply to Shares that “exceed” the $100,000 limit, ISOs shall be taken into account in the same order as granted. The Fair Market Value of the Shares shall be determined as of the time the Option with respect to such Shares is granted. The Optionee hereby acknowledges that there is no assurance that the Option will, in fact, be treated as an Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code.

 

2.             Exercise Period Following Termination of Service. This Option shall terminate and be canceled to the extent not exercised within three (3) months after the Optionee’s Service terminates; provided that if such termination is due to the Optionee’s total and permanent disability within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Code, this Option shall terminate and be canceled one (1) year from the date of termination of the Optionee’s Service; and provided, further, that if Optionee’s Service terminates (other than for Cause) on or after a Change in Control, then the Option shall remain exercisable until the Expiration Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that the Optionee’s Service is terminated for Cause, then the Option shall immediately terminate on the date of such termination of Service and shall not be exercisable for any period following such date. In no event, however, shall this Option be exercised later than the Expiration Date set forth in Exhibit A and in no event shall this Option be exercised for more Shares than the Shares which otherwise have become exercisable as of the date of termination.

 

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3.            Method of Exercise. This Option is exercisable by delivery to the Company of an exercise notice (the “Exercise Notice”) in a form satisfactory to the Committee or by such other form or means as the Committee may permit or require. Any Exercise Notice shall state or provide the number of Shares with respect to which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and include such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company pursuant to the provisions of the Plan. The Optionee may elect to make payment of the exercise price in cash or by check or by delivery to the Company of certificates representing shares of outstanding Common Stock already owned by the Optionee that are owned free and clear of any liens, claims, encumbrances or security interests together with stock powers duly executed and with signature guaranteed. In addition, the Optionee may make payment through a “cashless exercise” such that without the payment of any funds, the undersigned may exercise the Option and receive the net number of Shares equal to (x) the number of Shares as to which the Option is being exercised, multiplied by (y) a fraction, the numerator of which is the Fair Market Value per share (on such date as is determined by the Committee) less the Exercise Price per Share, and the denominator of which is such Fair Market Value per Share (the number of net Shares to be received shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number). In the event payment is made by delivery of such Shares, said Shares shall be deemed to have a per Share value equal to the Fair Market Value per Share on the date of exercise. Upon exercise of the Option by the Optionee and prior to the delivery of such Exercised Shares, the Company shall have the right to require the Optionee to satisfy applicable Federal and state tax income tax withholding requirements and the Optionee’s share of applicable employment withholding taxes in a method satisfactory to the Company. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Optionee may not exercise the Option by tender to the Company of Common Stock to the extent such tender would violate the provisions of any law, regulation or agreement restricting the redemption of the Company’s Common Stock. Further, no Exercised Shares shall be issued unless such exercise and issuance complies with the requirements relating to the administration of stock option plans and other applicable equity plans under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted, and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction where stock grants or other applicable equity grants are made under the Plan; assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Shares.

 

4.             Covenants Agreement. This Option shall be subject to forfeiture at the election of the Company in the event that the Optionee breaches any agreement between the Optionee and the Company with respect to noncompetition, nonsolicitation, assignment of inventions and contributions and/or nondisclosure obligations of the Optionee.

 

5.             Taxes.

 

(a)            By executing this Grant Agreement, Optionee acknowledges and agrees that Optionee is solely responsible for the satisfaction of any applicable taxes that may be imposed on Optionee that arise as a result of the grant, vesting or exercise of the Option, including without limitation any taxes arising under Section 409A of the Code (regarding deferred compensation) or Section 4999 of the Code (regarding golden parachute excise taxes), and that neither the Company nor the Committee shall have any obligation whatsoever to pay such taxes or otherwise indemnify or hold Optionee harmless from any or all of such taxes.

 

(b)           Notwithstanding paragraph (a) above, if any amounts or benefits provided for in this Grant Agreement, when aggregated with any other payments or benefits payable or provided to the Optionee (the “Total Payments”) would (i) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code (which will not include any portion of payments classified as payments of reasonable compensation for purposes of Section 280G of the Code, including without limitation amounts allocated to any restrictive covenants), and (ii) but for this Section 5(b), would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then the Total Payments will be either: (a) provided in full, or (b) provided as to such lesser extent as would result in no portion of such Total Payments being subject to the Excise Tax, whichever of the foregoing amounts, taking into account the applicable federal, state and local income and employment taxes and the Excise Tax, results in the Optionee’s receipt on an after-tax basis of the greatest amount of the Total Payments, notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Total Payments may be subject to the Excise Tax. To the extent any reduction in Total Payments is required by this Section 5(b), such reduction shall occur to the payments and benefits in the order that results in the greatest economic present value of all payments and benefits actually made to Optionee. Subject to Section 409A of the Code, such order of reductions shall be determined by the Optionee. Unless the Company and the Optionee otherwise agree in writing, any determination required under this Section 5(b) shall be made in writing by an independent public accounting firm mutually acceptable to the Company and the Optionee (the “Accountants”) whose determination shall be conclusive and binding upon the Optionee and the Company for all purposes. For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 5(b), the Accountants may make reasonable assumptions and approximations concerning applicable taxes and may rely on reasonable, good faith interpretations concerning the application of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Code. The Company and the Optionee shall furnish to the Accountants such information and documents as the Accountants may reasonably request in order to make a determination under this Section 5(b). The Company shall pay all fees and expenses of the Accountants.

 

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6.              Non-Transferability of Option. This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of the Optionee only by the Optionee. The terms of the Plan and this Grant Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

7.             Securities Matters. All Shares and Exercised Shares shall be subject to the restrictions on sale, encumbrance and other disposition provided by Federal or state law. The Company shall not be obligated to sell or issue any Shares or Exercised Shares pursuant to this Grant Agreement unless, on the date of sale and issuance thereof, such Shares are either registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and all applicable state securities laws, or are exempt from registration thereunder. Regardless of whether the offering and sale of Shares under the Plan have been registered under the Securities Act, or have been registered or qualified under the securities laws of any state, the Company at its discretion may impose restrictions upon the sale, pledge or other transfer of such Shares (including the placement of appropriate legends on stock certificates or the imposition of stop-transfer instructions) if, in the judgment of the Company, such restrictions are necessary in order to achieve compliance with the Securities Act or the securities laws of any state or any other law.

 

8.              Investment Purpose. The Optionee represents and warrants that unless the Shares are registered under the Securities Act, any and all Shares acquired by the Optionee under this Grant Agreement will be acquired for investment for the Optionee’s own account and not with a view to, for resale in connection with, or with an intent of participating directly or indirectly in, any distribution of such Shares within the meaning of the Securities Act. The Optionee agrees not to sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of such Shares unless they are either (1) registered under the Securties Act and all applicable state securities laws, or (2) exempt from such registration in the opinion of Company counsel.

 

9.             Lock-Up Agreement. The Optionee hereby agrees that in the event that the Optionee exercises this Option during a period in which any directors or officers of the Company have agreed with one or more underwriters not to sell securities of the Company, then, as a condition to such exercise, the Optionee shall enter into an agreement, in form and substance satisfactory to the Company, pursuant to which the Optionee shall agree to restrictions on transferability of the Shares comparable to the restrictions agreed upon by such directors or officers of the Company.

 

10.           Other Plans. No amounts of income received by the Optionee pursuant to this Grant Agreement shall be considered compensation for purposes of any pension or retirement plan, insurance plan or any other employee benefit plan of the Company or its subsidiaries, unless otherwise expressly provided in such plan.

 

11.           No Guarantee of Continued Service. The Optionee acknowledges and agrees that the right to exercise the Option pursuant to the exercise schedule hereof is earned only through continuous Service and such other requirements, if any, as are set forth in Exhibit A (and not through the act of being hired, being granted an option or purchasing shares hereunder). The Optionee further acknowledges and agrees that (i) this Grant Agreement, the transactions contemplated hereunder and the exercise schedule set forth herein do not constitute an express or implied promise of continued employment or service for the exercise period or for any other period, and shall not interfere with the Optionee’s right or the right of the Company or its Subsidiaries to terminate the employment or service relationship at any time, with or without cause, subject to the terms of any written employment agreement that the Optionee may have entered into with the Company or any of its Subsidiaries; and (ii) the Company would not have granted this Option to the Optionee but for these acknowledgements and agreements.

 

12.           Entire Agreement; Governing Law. The Plan is incorporated herein by reference. The Plan and this Grant Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and the Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be amended to materially impair the rights of the Optionee without the Optionee’s consent; provided, however, that no action of the Board or the Committee that alters or affects the tax treatment of the Option shall be considered to materially impair any rights of the Optionee. In the event of any conflict between this Grant Agreement and the Plan, the Plan shall be controlling, except as otherwise specifically provided in the Plan. This Grant Agreement shall be construed under the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to conflict of laws principles.

 

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13.           Opportunity for Review. Optionee and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Grant Agreement. The Optionee has reviewed the Plan and this Grant Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Grant Agreement and fully understands all provisions of the Plan and this Grant Agreement. The Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions relating to the Plan and this Grant Agreement. The Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated herein.

 

14.           Section 409A. This Option is intended to be excepted from coverage under Section 409A and shall be administered, interpreted and construed accordingly. The Company may, in its sole discretion and without the Optionee’s consent, modify or amend the terms of this Grant Agreement, impose conditions on the timing and effectiveness of the exercise of the Option by Optionee, or take any other action it deems necessary or advisable, to cause the Option to be excepted from Section 409A (or to comply therewith to the extent the Company determines it is not excepted).

 

15.           Recoupment. In the event the Company restates its financial statements due to material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirements under applicable securities laws, any shares issued pursuant to this Agreement for or in respect of the year that is restated, or the prior three years, may be recovered to the extent the shares issued exceed the number that would have been issued based on the restatement. In addition and without limitation of the foregoing, any amounts paid hereunder shall be subject to recoupment in accordance with The Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and any implementing regulations thereunder, any clawback policy adopted by the Company or as is otherwise required by applicable law or stock exchange listing conditions.

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Grant Agreement as of the date set forth in Exhibit A.

 

  TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.
     
  By:  
    Name: Joseph Visconti
    Title: Chief Executive Officer and Director
 
  OPTIONEE

 

23
 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION GRANT AGREEMENT

 

TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.

 

 

  (a) Optionee’s Name: __________________________________________________
     
  (b) Date of Grant:  _____________________________________________________
     
  (c) Number of Shares Subject to the Option: _________________________________
     
  (d) Exercise Price: $______ per Share
     
  (e) Expiration Date: ____________________________________________________
     
  (f) Vesting Schedule:

 

Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if a “Change in Control” (as defined in the Plan) occurs prior to the cessation of the Optionee’s “Service” (as defined in the Plan), then the Option, to the extent not then vested, shall become fully (100%) vested immediately prior to the date of such Change in Control.

 

_______ (Initials)

Optionee

 

_______ (Initials)

Company Signatory

 

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NONQUALIFIED STOCK OPTION GRANT AGREEMENT

 

TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO. 2021 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

 

This Stock Option Grant Agreement (the “Grant Agreement”) is made and entered into effective on the Date of Grant set forth in Exhibit A (the “Date of Grant”) by and between Twin Vee PowerCats Co., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and the individual named in Exhibit A hereto (the “Optionee”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to provide the Optionee an incentive to participate in the success and growth of the Company through the opportunity to earn a proprietary interest in the Company; and

 

WHEREAS, to give effect to the foregoing intention, the Company desires to grant the Optionee an option pursuant to the Twin Vee PowerCats Co. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) to acquire the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”);

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter set forth and for good and valuable consideration, the parties hereto agree as follows:

 

1.             Grant. The Company hereby grants the Optionee a Nonqualified Stock Option (the “Option”) to purchase up to the number of shares of Common Stock (the “Shares”) set forth in Exhibit A hereto at the exercise price per Share (the “Exercise Price”) set forth in Exhibit A, and on the vesting schedule set forth in Exhibit A, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein and the provisions of the Plan, the terms of which are incorporated herein by reference. Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined in this Grant Agreement shall have the meanings as set forth in the Plan.

 

2.             Exercise Period Following Termination of Service. This Option shall terminate and be canceled to the extent not exercised within ninety (90) days after the Optionee’s Service terminates; provided that if such termination is due to the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option shall terminate and be canceled twelve (12) months from the date of termination of the Optionee’s Service; and provided, further, that if Optionee’s Service terminates (other than for Cause) on or after a Change in Control, then the Option shall remain exercisable until the Expiration Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that the Optionee’s Service is terminated for Cause, then the Option shall immediately terminate on the date of such termination of Service and shall not be exercisable for any period following such date. In no event, however, shall this Option be exercised later than the Expiration Date set forth in Exhibit A and in no event shall this Option be exercised for more Shares than the Shares which otherwise have become exercisable as of the date of termination.

 

3.            Method of Exercise. This Option is exercisable by delivery to the Company of an exercise notice (the “Exercise Notice”) in a form satisfactory to the Committee or by such other form or means as the Committee may permit or require. Any Exercise Notice shall state or provide the number of Shares with respect to which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and include such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company pursuant to the provisions of the Plan. The Optionee may elect to make payment of the exercise price in cash or by check or by delivery to the Company of certificates representing shares of outstanding Common Stock already owned by the Optionee that are owned free and clear of any liens, claims, encumbrances or security interests together with stock powers duly executed and with signature guaranteed. In addition, the Optionee may make payment through a “cashless exercise” such that without the payment of any funds, the undersigned may exercise the Option and receive the net number of Shares equal to (x) the number of Shares as to which the Option is being exercised, multiplied by (y) a fraction, the numerator of which is the Fair Market Value per share (on such date as is determined by the Committee) less the Exercise Price per Share, and the denominator of which is such Fair Market Value per Share (the number of net Shares to be received shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number). In the event payment is made by delivery of such Shares, said Shares shall be deemed to have a per Share value equal to the Fair Market Value per Share on the date of exercise. Upon exercise of the Option by the Optionee and prior to the delivery of such Exercised Shares, the Company shall have the right to require the Optionee to satisfy applicable Federal and state tax income tax withholding requirements and the Optionee’s share of applicable employment withholding taxes in a method satisfactory to the Company. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Optionee may not exercise the Option by tender to the Company of Common Stock to the extent such tender would violate the provisions of any law, regulation or agreement restricting the redemption of the Company’s Common Stock. Further, no Exercised Shares shall be issued unless such exercise and issuance complies with the requirements relating to the administration of stock option plans and other applicable equity plans under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted, and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction where stock grants or other applicable equity grants are made under the Plan; assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Shares.

 

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4.             Covenants Agreement. This Option shall be subject to forfeiture at the election of the Company in the event that the Optionee breaches any agreement between the Optionee and the Company with respect to noncompetition, nonsolicitation, assignment of inventions and contributions and/or nondisclosure obligations of the Optionee.

 

5.             Taxes.

 

(a)           By executing this Grant Agreement, Optionee acknowledges and agrees that Optionee is solely responsible for the satisfaction of any applicable taxes that may be imposed on Optionee that arise as a result of the grant, vesting or exercise of the Option, including without limitation any taxes arising under Section 409A of the Code (regarding deferred compensation) or Section 4999 of the Code (regarding golden parachute excise taxes), and that neither the Company nor the Committee shall have any obligation whatsoever to pay such taxes or otherwise indemnify or hold Optionee harmless from any or all of such taxes.

 

(b)           Notwithstanding paragraph (a) above, if any amounts or benefits provided for in this Grant Agreement, when aggregated with any other payments or benefits payable or provided to the Optionee (the “Total Payments”) would (i) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code (which will not include any portion of payments classified as payments of reasonable compensation for purposes of Section 280G of the Code, including without limitation amounts allocated to any restrictive covenants), and (ii) but for this Section 5(b), would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then the Total Payments will be either: (a) provided in full, or (b) provided as to such lesser extent as would result in no portion of such Total Payments being subject to the Excise Tax, whichever of the foregoing amounts, taking into account the applicable federal, state and local income and employment taxes and the Excise Tax, results in the Optionee’s receipt on an after-tax basis of the greatest amount of the Total Payments, notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Total Payments may be subject to the Excise Tax. To the extent any reduction in Total Payments is required by this Section 5(b), such reduction shall occur to the payments and benefits in the order that results in the greatest economic present value of all payments and benefits actually made to Optionee. Subject to Section 409A of the Code, such order of reductions shall be determined by the Optionee. Unless the Company and the Optionee otherwise agree in writing, any determination required under this Section 5(b) shall be made in writing by an independent public accounting firm mutually acceptable to the Company and the Optionee (the “Accountants”) whose determination shall be conclusive and binding upon the Optionee and the Company for all purposes. For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 5(b), the Accountants may make reasonable assumptions and approximations concerning applicable taxes and may rely on reasonable, good faith interpretations concerning the application of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Code. The Company and the Optionee shall furnish to the Accountants such information and documents as the Accountants may reasonably request in order to make a determination under this Section 5(b). The Company shall pay all fees and expenses of the Accountants.

 

6.             Non-Transferability of Option. This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of the Optionee only by the Optionee. The terms of the Plan and this Grant Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

7.             Securities Matters. All Shares and Exercised Shares shall be subject to the restrictions on sale, encumbrance and other disposition provided by Federal or state law. The Company shall not be obligated to sell or issue any Shares or Exercised Shares pursuant to this Grant Agreement unless, on the date of sale and issuance thereof, such Shares are either registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and all applicable state securities laws, or are exempt from registration thereunder. Regardless of whether the offering and sale of Shares under the Plan have been registered under the Securities Act, or have been registered or qualified under the securities laws of any state, the Company at its discretion may impose restrictions upon the sale, pledge or other transfer of such Shares (including the placement of appropriate legends on stock certificates or the imposition of stop-transfer instructions) if, in the judgment of the Company, such restrictions are necessary in order to achieve compliance with the Securities Act or the securities laws of any state or any other law.

 

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8.             Investment Purpose. The Optionee represents and warrants that unless the Shares are registered under the Securities Act, any and all Shares acquired by the Optionee under this Grant Agreement will be acquired for investment for the Optionee’s own account and not with a view to, for resale in connection with, or with an intent of participating directly or indirectly in, any distribution of such Shares within the meaning of the Securities Act. The Optionee agrees not to sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of such Shares unless they are either (1) registered under the Securties Act and all applicable state securities laws, or (2) exempt from such registration in the opinion of Company counsel.

 

9.             Lock-Up Agreement. The Optionee hereby agrees that in the event that the Optionee exercises this Option during a period in which any directors or officers of the Company have agreed with one or more underwriters not to sell securities of the Company, then, as a condition to such exercise, the Optionee shall enter into an agreement, in form and substance satisfactory to the Company, pursuant to which the Optionee shall agree to restrictions on transferability of the Shares comparable to the restrictions agreed upon by such directors or officers of the Company.

 

10.           Other Plans. No amounts of income received by the Optionee pursuant to this Grant Agreement shall be considered compensation for purposes of any pension or retirement plan, insurance plan or any other employee benefit plan of the Company or its subsidiaries, unless otherwise expressly provided in such plan.

 

11.           No Guarantee of Continued Service. The Optionee acknowledges and agrees that the right to exercise the Option pursuant to the exercise schedule hereof is earned only through continuous Service and such other requirements, if any, as are set forth in Exhibit A (and not through the act of being hired, being granted an option or purchasing shares hereunder). The Optionee further acknowledges and agrees that (i) this Grant Agreement, the transactions contemplated hereunder and the exercise schedule set forth herein do not constitute an express or implied promise of continued employment or service for the exercise period or for any other period, and shall not interfere with the Optionee’s right or the right of the Company or its Subsidiaries to terminate the employment or service relationship at any time, with or without cause, subject to the terms of any written employment agreement that the Optionee may have entered into with the Company or any of its Subsidiaries; and (ii) the Company would not have granted this Option to the Optionee but for these acknowledgements and agreements.

 

12.           Entire Agreement; Governing Law. The Plan is incorporated herein by reference. The Plan and this Grant Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and the Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be amended to materially impair the rights of the Optionee without the Optionee’s consent; provided, however, that no action of the Board or the Committee that alters or affects the tax treatment of the Option shall be considered to materially impair any rights of the Optionee. In the event of any conflict between this Grant Agreement and the Plan, the Plan shall be controlling, except as otherwise specifically provided in the Plan. This Grant Agreement shall be construed under the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to conflict of laws principles.

 

13.           Opportunity for Review. Optionee and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Grant Agreement. The Optionee has reviewed the Plan and this Grant Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Grant Agreement and fully understands all provisions of the Plan and this Grant Agreement. The Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions relating to the Plan and this Grant Agreement. The Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated herein.

 

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14.          Section 409A. This Option is intended to be excepted from coverage under Section 409A and shall be administered, interpreted and construed accordingly. The Company may, in its sole discretion and without the Optionee’s consent, modify or amend the terms of this Grant Agreement, impose conditions on the timing and effectiveness of the exercise of the Option by Optionee, or take any other action it deems necessary or advisable, to cause the Option to be excepted from Section 409A (or to comply therewith to the extent the Company determines it is not excepted).

 

15.           Recoupment. In the event the Company restates its financial statements due to material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirements under applicable securities laws, any shares issued pursuant to this Agreement for or in respect of the year that is restated, or the prior three years, may be recovered to the extent the shares issued exceed the number that would have been issued based on the restatement. In addition and without limitation of the foregoing, any amounts paid hereunder shall be subject to recoupment in accordance with The Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and any implementing regulations thereunder, any clawback policy adopted by the Company or as is otherwise required by applicable law or stock exchange listing conditions.

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Grant Agreement as of the date set forth in Exhibit A.

 

  TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.
   
  By:  
    Name:
    Title:
   
  OPTIONEE
   
  Name:

 

29
 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

NONQUALIFIED STOCK OPTION GRANT AGREEMENT

 

TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.

 

 

  (a) Optionee’s Name:  ______________________________________________
     
  (b) Date of Grant:  _________________________________________________
     
  (c) Number of Shares Subject to the Option:  _________________________
     
  (d) Exercise Price: $______ per Share
     
  (e) Expiration Date:  _______________________________________________
     
  (f) Vesting Schedule:

 

Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if a “Change in Control” (as defined in the Plan) occurs prior to the cessation of the Optionee’s “Service” (as defined in the Plan), then the Option, to the extent not then vested, shall become fully (100%) vested immediately prior to the date of such Change in Control.

 

_______ (Initials)

Optionee

  

_______ (Initials)

Company Signatory

 

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FORM OF

 

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

 

TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO. 2021 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

 

This Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (the “Agreement” or “Award Agreement”), dated as of the “Award Date” set forth in the attached Exhibit A, is entered into between Twin Vee PowerCats Co., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and the individual named in Exhibit A hereto (the “Awardee”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to provide the Awardee an incentive to participate in the success and growth of the Company through the opportunity to earn a proprietary interest in the Company; and

 

WHEREAS, to give effect to the foregoing intention, the Company desires to award the Awardee Restricted Stock Units pursuant to the Twin Vee PowerCats Co. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”);

 

NOW, THEREFORE, the following provisions apply to this Award:

 

1.             Award. The Company hereby awards the Awardee the number of Restricted Stock Units (each an “RSU” and collectively the “RSUs”) set forth in Exhibit A. Such RSUs shall be subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement and the provisions of the Plan, the terms of which are incorporated herein by reference. Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings as set forth in the Plan.

 

2.             Vesting. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, the RSUs shall vest in accordance with the vesting schedule set forth in Exhibit A, provided that the Awardee remains in Service through the applicable vesting date.

 

For each RSU that becomes vested in accordance with this Agreement, the Company shall issue and deliver to Awardee, on or within thirty (30) business days after becoming vested, one share of the Company’s common stock, par value $.001 per share (the “Common Stock”). Except as may be provided in Exhibit A, in the event that the Awardee ceases to be in Service, any RSUs that have not vested as of the date of such cessation of service shall be forfeited.

 

3.             Dividend Equivalent Units. If and to the extent that the Company pays a cash dividend with respect to the Common Stock, Awardee shall be credited with an additional number of RSUs (“Dividend Equivalent Units”), including a fractional Dividend Equivalent Unit if applicable, equal to (i) the amount of such dividends as would have been paid with respect to Awardee’s outstanding RSUs on the record date of such dividend (the “record date”) had each such outstanding RSU been an outstanding share of Common Stock on such record date, divided by (ii) the closing price of a share of Common Stock on such record date. Dividend Equivalent Units shall be subject to the same vesting terms and conditions as the RSUs to which they relate.

 

4.            No Rights as Stockholder. The Awardee shall not be entitled to any of the rights of a stockholder with respect to any share of Common Stock that may be acquired following vesting of an RSU unless and until such share of Common Stock is issued and delivered to the Awardee. Without limitation of the foregoing, the Awardee shall not have the right to vote any share of Common Stock to which an RSU relates and shall not be entitled to receive any dividend attributable to such share of Common Stock for any period prior to the issuance and delivery of such share to Awardee (but Awardee shall have dividend equivalent rights as provided in Section 3 above).

 

5.             Transfer Restrictions. Neither this Agreement nor the RSUs may be sold, assigned, pledged or otherwise transferred or encumbered without the prior written consent of the Committee.

 

6.            Government Regulations. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, the Company’s obligation hereunder to issue or deliver certificates evidencing shares of Common Stock shall be subject to the terms of all applicable laws, rules and regulations and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be required.

 

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7.             Withholding Taxes. The Awardee shall pay to the Company, or make provision satisfactory to the Company for payment of, the minimum statutory amount required to satisfy all federal, state and local income tax withholding requirements and the Awardee’s share of applicable employment withholding taxes in connection with the issuance and deliverance of shares of Common Stock following vesting of RSUs, in any manner permitted by the Plan. No shares of Common Stock shall be issued with respect to RSUs unless and until satisfactory arrangements acceptable to the Company have been made by the Awardee with respect to the payment of any income and other taxes which the Company determines must be withheld or collected with respect to the RSUs. Subject to the following sentence, the Committee, in its sole discretion, may provide for the withholding of applicable taxes from the proceeds of the sale of Shares acquired upon vesting of the RSUs, either through a voluntary sale or through a mandatory sale arranged by the Company (on Awardee’s behalf pursuant to this authorization). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if requested by Awardee, and if the Committee consents, the Company shall withhold shares of Common Stock that would otherwise be issued upon vesting of the RSUs to cover applicable withholding taxes, equal to the greatest number of whole shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value on the date immediately preceding the date on which the applicable tax liability is determined not in excess of the minimum amount required to satisfy the statutory withholding tax obligations with respect to the award. The Company may refuse to issue or deliver the shares of Common Stock unless all withholding taxes that may be due as a result of this Award have been paid.

 

8.            Section 280G. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if any amounts or benefits provided for in this Agreement, when aggregated with any other payments or benefits payable or provided to the Awardee (the “Total Payments”) would (i) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code (which will not include any portion of payments classified as payments of reasonable compensation for purposes of Section 280G of the Code, including without limitation amounts allocated to any restrictive covenants), and (ii) but for this Section 8, would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then the Total Payments will be either: (a) provided in full, or (b) provided as to such lesser extent as would result in no portion of such Total Payments being subject to the Excise Tax, whichever of the foregoing amounts, taking into account the applicable federal, state and local income and employment taxes and the Excise Tax, results in the Awardee’s receipt on an after-tax basis of the greatest amount of the Total Payments, notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Total Payments may be subject to the Excise Tax. To the extent any reduction in Total Payments is required by this Section 8, such reduction shall occur to the payments and benefits in the order that results in the greatest economic present value of all payments and benefits actually made to Awardee. Subject to Section 409A of the Code, such order of reductions shall be determined by the Awardee. Unless the Company and the Awardee otherwise agree in writing, any determination required under this Section 8 shall be made in writing by an independent public accounting firm mutually acceptable to the Company and the Awardee (the “Accountants”) whose determination shall be conclusive and binding upon the Awardee and the Company for all purposes. For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 8, the Accountants may make reasonable assumptions and approximations concerning applicable taxes and may rely on reasonable, good faith interpretations concerning the application of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Code. The Company and the Awardee shall furnish to the Accountants such information and documents as the Accountants may reasonably request in order to make a determination under this Section 8. The Company shall pay all fees and expenses of the Accountants.

 

9.             Investment Purpose. Any and all shares of Common Stock acquired by the Awardee under this Agreement will be acquired for investment for the Awardee’s own account and not with a view to, for resale in connection with, or with an intent of participating directly or indirectly in, any distribution of such shares of Common Stock within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Awardee shall not sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of such shares unless they are either (1) registered under the Securities Act and all applicable state securities laws, or (2) exempt from such registration in the opinion of Company counsel.

 

10.          Securities Law Restrictions. Regardless of whether the offering and sale of shares of Common Stock issuable to Awardee pursuant to this Agreement and the Plan have been registered under the Securities Act, or have been registered or qualified under the securities laws of any state, the Company at its discretion may impose restrictions upon the sale, pledge or other transfer of such shares of Common Stock (including the placement of appropriate legends on stock certificates or the imposition of stop-transfer instructions) if, in the judgment of the Company, such restrictions are necessary in order to achieve compliance with the Securities Act or the securities laws of any state or any other law.

 

32
 

 

11.           Lock-Up Agreement. The Awardee, in the event that any shares of Common Stock which become deliverable to Awardee with respect to RSUs at a time during which any directors or officers of the Company have agreed with one or more underwriters not to sell securities of the Company, shall enter into an agreement, in form and substance satisfactory to the Company, pursuant to which the Awardee shall agree to restrictions on transferability of the shares of such Common Stock comparable to the restrictions agreed upon by such directors or officers of the Company.

 

12.           Awardee Obligations. The Awardee should review this Agreement with his or her own tax advisors to understand the federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. The Awardee will rely solely on such advisors and not on any statements or representations of the Company or any of its agents, if any, made to the Awardee. The Awardee (and not the Company) shall be responsible for the Awardee’s own tax liability arising as a result of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

13.          No Guarantee of Continued Service. The Awardee acknowledges and agrees that (i) nothing in this Agreement or the Plan confers on the Awardee any right to continue an employment, service or consulting relationship with the Company, nor shall it affect in any way the Awardee’s right or the Company’s right to terminate the Awardee’s employment, service, or consulting relationship at any time, with or without cause, subject to any employment or service agreement that may have been entered into by the Company and the Awardee; and (ii) the Company would not have granted this Award to the Awardee but for these acknowledgements and agreements.

 

14.          Notices. Notices or communications to be made hereunder shall be in writing and shall be delivered in person, by registered mail, by confirmed facsimile or by a reputable overnight courier service to the Company at its principal office or to the Awardee at his or her address contained in the records of the Company. Alternatively, notices and other communications may be provided in the form and manner of such electronic means as the Company may permit.

 

15.           Entire Agreement; Governing Law. The Plan is incorporated herein by reference. The Plan and this Award Agreement constitute the entire Agreement with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and the Awardee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and except as provided in the Plan or in this Agreement, may not be modified adversely to the Awardee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and the Awardee. In the event of any conflict between this Award Agreement and the Plan, the Plan shall be controlling. This Award Agreement shall be construed under the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to conflict of laws principles.

 

16.           Opportunity for Review. Awardee and the Company agree that this Award is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Award Agreement. The Awardee has reviewed the Plan and this Award Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to accepting this Award Agreement and fully understands all provisions of the Plan and this Award Agreement. The Awardee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions relating to the Plan and this Award Agreement. The Awardee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in Awardee’s residence address.

 

17.           Binding Effect. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company and the Awardee and their respective permitted successors, assigns, heirs, beneficiaries and representatives.

 

18.          Section 409A Compliance. To the extent that this Agreement and the award of RSUs hereunder are or become subject to the provisions of Section 409A of the Code, the Company and the Awardee agree that this Agreement may be amended or modified by the Company, in its sole discretion and without the Awardee’s consent, as appropriate to maintain compliance with the provisions of Section 409A of the Code.

 

19.           Recoupment. In the event the Company restates its financial statements due to material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirements under applicable securities laws, any payments made or shares issued pursuant to this Agreement for or in respect of the year that is restated, or the prior three years, may be recovered to the extent the payments made or shares issued exceed the amount that would have been paid or issued based on the restatement. In addition, and without limitation of the foregoing, any amounts paid hereunder shall be subject to recoupment in accordance with The Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and any implementing regulations thereunder, any clawback policy adopted by the Company or as is otherwise required by applicable law or stock exchange listing conditions.

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

33
 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date set forth in Exhibit A.

 

  TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.
   
  By:  
    Name:
    Title:
   
  AWARDEE
   
  Name:

 

34
 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

TWIN VEE POWERCATS CO.

 

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

 

  (a) Awardee’s Name: _____________________________________________
     
  (b) Award Date: ______________________________________________,202
     
  (c) Number of Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) Granted: _________________
     
  (d) Vesting Schedule:

 

The RSUs awarded herein shall vest as follows, provided that Awardee remains in “Service” (as defined in the Plan) through each such respective vesting date.

 

Vesting Date RSUs Vested
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

 

Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if a “Change in Control” (as defined in the Plan) occurs prior to the cessation of the Awardee’s “Service” (as defined in the Plan), then the RSUs, to the extent not then vested, shall become fully (100%) vested immediately prior to the date of such Change in Control.

 

_______ (Initials)

Awardee

  

_______ (Initials)

Company Signatory

 

35

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.2

 

 

1

 

 

2

 

 

Exhibit 10.3

 

 

1

 

 

 

2

 

 

3

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

8

 

 

Exhibit 10.4

 

 

1

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

 

4

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

6

 

 

7

 

 

 

8

 

 

 

9

 

 

10

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

12

 

 

13

 

 

 

14

 

 

15

 

 

 

16

 

 

 

Exhibit 21.1

 

List of Subsidiaries

 

None

 

 

 Exhibit 23.1

 

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We hereby consent to the inclusion in this Offering Statement on Form S-1 of our report dated March 15, 2021 relating to the financial statements of Twin Vee Catamarans, Inc. as of and for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. We also consent to the reference to our firm under the heading "Experts" appearing therein.

 

SIGNATURE

Grassi & Co., CPAs, P.C.

 

Jericho, New York

April 8, 2021