Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (232.405(§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. Yeso No
| PART I | |
| | |
Item 1. | Business | 4 |
Item 1A. | Risk Factors | 12 |
Item 1B. | Unresolved Staff Comments | 26 |
Item 2. | Properties | 26 |
Item 3. | Legal Proceedings | 27 |
Item 4. | Mine Safety Disclosure | 27 |
| | |
| PART II | |
| | |
Item 5. | Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities | 28 |
Item 6. | Selected Financial Data | 29 |
Item 7. | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations | 31 |
Item 7A. | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk | 43 |
Item 8. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data | 44 |
Item 9. | Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosures | 44 |
Item 9A. | Controls and Procedures | 44 |
Item 9B | Other Information | 49 |
| | |
| PART III | |
| | |
Item 10. | Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance | 50 |
Item 11. | Executive Compensation | 50 |
Item 12. | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters | 50 |
Item 13. | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence | 51 |
Item 14. | Principal Accounting Fees and Services | 51 |
| | |
| PART IV | |
| | |
Item 15. | Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules | 52 |
SIGNATURES | | 54 |
EXPLANATORY NOTE
We
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE “SAFE HARBOR” STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
Statements in this report that are
filing this Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-K fornot historical facts or information are forward-looking statements within the
period ended December 31, 2011 to include a conformed signature page (page F-2). The Form 10-K was inadvertently filed previously without a conformed signature on p. F-2.CAUTIONARY NOTES REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report on Form 10-K containsmeaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “estimate,” “project,” “forecast,” “plan,” “believe,” “may,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “planned,” “potential,” “can,” “expectation” and similar expressions, or the negative of those expressions, may identify forward-looking statements. TheseSuch forward-looking statements involve knownare based on management’s reasonable current assumptions and unknownexpectations. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievementsachievement to be materially different from any future results performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.
In some cases, you can identifysuch forward-looking statements, by terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “expect,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “intends,” “potential” and similar expressions intendedthere can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from management’s expectations. Such factors include, among others, the following:
anticipated growth and growth strategies;
need for additional capital and the availability of financing;
our ability to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflectsuccessfully manage relationships with customers, distributors and other important relationships;;
demand for our current views with respect to future eventsproducts and are based on assumptionsservices;
the deterioration of general economic conditions, whether internationally, nationally or in the local markets in which we operate;
legislative or regulatory changes that may adversely affect our business; and subject to
other risks, and uncertainties. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We discuss many of these risksincluding those described in greater detail under the heading “Risk Factors” in Item 1A. Also, these forward-looking statements represent our estimates and assumptions only as of the datediscussion of this annual report. Except as required by law, we assume
We undertake no obligation to update any
forward-looking statements after the date of this report.such forward looking statement, except as required by law.
PART I
Item
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
We are a marine enterprises group primarily engaging in ocean fishing through our wholly-owned PRC operating subsidiary or VIE, Fujian Provincial Pingtan County Ocean Fishing Group Co., Ltd., or Pingtan Fishing. We harvest a variety of fish species with our owned and licensed vessels operating within the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and the Arafura Sea of Indonesia. We provide high quality seafood to a diverse group of customers including distributors, restaurant owners and exporters in the PRC.
In June 2013, we expanded our fleet from 40 to 86 through a purchase of 46 fishing trawlers from a related party for a total consideration of $410.1 million. The transaction is subject to the receipt of government approvals; however we began operating the vessels in the third quarter of 2013 and since then we have been entitled to their operations and net profits. These vessels are fully licensed to fish in Indonesian waters. Each vessel carries crew of 10 to 15 persons. These vessels have resulted in additional carrying capacity of approximately 45,000 to 50,000 tons for us.
In September 2013, we further increased our fleet to 106 vessels with the addition of 20 newly-built fishing trawlers, which were formedinitially ordered in September 2012. These vessels have an expected run-in period of 3 - 6 months, during which each is placed into the sea for testing prior to full operation. These vessels are fully licensed to fish in Indian and Indonesian waters. At full operation, each vessel is capable of harvesting 900 to 1,000 tons of fish. We expect that the expansions of our fleet will greatly increase our fish harvest volume and revenue.
Subsequent to our fleet expansions, in September 2013, the Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China (“MOA”) issued a notification that it would suspend accepting shipbuilding applications for tuna harvesting vessels, squid harvesting vessels, Pacific saury harvesting vessels, trawlers operating on international waters, seine on international waters, and trawlers operating on the Arafura Sea, Indonesia. We believe the announcement is a positive indicator for long-term stability and balance in China’s fishing industry. We believe that this has helped to ensure our fishing productivity in international waters, while also serving as a major barrier to entry for competitors in our industry and strengthening our competitive position in the markets.
In December 2013, we further expanded our fleet to 126 vessels with the addition of the 25-year exclusive operating license rights for 20 new fishing drifters from a related party. Currently we operate 104 trawlers and 22 drifters and our fleet has an average useful life of approximately 17 years. These vessels are fully licensed to fish in Indonesian or Indian waters. 114 of these vessels are operating in Arafura Sea in Indonesia, and the remaining 12 vessels are operating in the Bay of Bengal in India.
Currently we catch nearly 30 different species of fish including ribbon fish, Indian white shrimp, croaker fish, pomfret, Spanish mackerel, conger eel, squid and red snapper. All of our catch is shipped back to China. Our fishing vessels transport frozen catch to cold storage warehouse at nearby onshore fishing bases. We then arrange periodic charted transportation ships to deliver frozen stocks to our eight cold storage warehouses located in one of China’s largest seafood trading centers, Mawei Seafood Market in Fujian Province.
We derive our revenue primarily from the sales of frozen seafood products.We sell our products directly to customers including distributors, restaurant owners and exporters, and most of our customers have long-term and trustworthy cooperative relationship with us.Our existing customers also introduce new customers to us from time to time. Our operating results are subject to seasonal variations. Harvest volume is the highest in the fourth quarter of the year and harvest volumes in the second and third quarters are relatively low due to the spawning season of certain fish species, including ribbon fish, cuttlefish, butterfish, and calamari. Based on past experiences, demand for seafood products is the highest from December to January during Chinese New Year. We believe that our profitability and growth are dependent on our ability to expand the customer base.With the expansions of operating capacity and expected increasing harvest volume in the coming years, we will continue to develop new customers from existing and new territories in China.
Government Permits and Approvals
We are required to go through series of procedures to obtain all approvals necessary to fish in the dedicated fishing areas.
Step one: Obtaining Vessel Building Permits
First, we have to file a vessel building application to the relevant governmental authorities in Fujian to obtain the Fishing Vessel and Net Tools Building Permits. Governmental authorities in Fujian verify Pingtan Fishing’s qualifications for pelagic fishing and pass on the verified and approved application documents to affiliates of the Ministry of Agriculture for further confirmation. Once confirmed, the certificates are issued to Pingtan Fishing.
Step two: Vessels Building and Inspection
After obtaining the Fishing Vessel and Net Tools Building Permits, we start building the new vessels through contracting with third party vessel manufacturers. During the period of construction, inspection of the vessels is performed several times by the relevant governmental authorities. Once the construction is completed, a Vessel Inspection Certificate is issued, after which we can apply for certificates of ownership and certificates of nationality for new vessels.
Step three: Fishing Project Application
After obtaining all certificates in step two, we file applications to the relevant governmental authorities to obtain approvals for pelagic fishing projects in the specified fishing areas. Meanwhile, we start the application process for obtaining fishing permits from the relevant governmental authorities in the applicable fishing destination countries.
Step four: Preparations Before Departure
Once the approval for pelagic fishing projects is issued, we can complete all relevant departure procedures within six months from the time the notification of approval is issued. Departure procedures include obtaining visas for fishing vessels and crew members, submitting required certificates to the PRC customs in Fujian, and obtaining other relevant documents from governmental authorities, such as Vessel Departure Certificates.
Step five: Fishing Project Approval and Departure to Fishing Areas
After we have submitted all required documents to the relevant governmental authorities and completed all procedures required for departure, we receive confirmation of pelagic fishing project approval from affiliates of the Ministry of Agriculture. Once we obtain such confirmation, our vessels can departure to the applicable fishing destination country. Fish caught at the destination may then be shipped back and be declared at the PRC customs.
Operations
Harvesting Operations
The fishing vessels can carry up to one-month of supplies. The captains of the vessels utilize sophisticated technology to identify, among other things, fishing areas, time to cast and draw in the nets, vessel speed and sailing direction allowing the vessels to optimize the catch and resource value. Nearby fishing groups share real-time fishing information through wireless radio equipment. The catch is separated based on species and sizes, and is frozen immediately.
Once the storage of a fishing vessel is at capacity, it returns to the fishing base and transfers the catch to a transportation vessels docked at the fishing base port. We have entered into a contract with Avona Mina Lestari (“Avona”), which operates a fishing base owned by Mr. Xinrong Zhuo, our founder and chairman, to obtain access to the base and secure certain services including custom declaration and fishing permits registrations. We also use the fishing base to repair our vessels, if necessary.
Transportation
Transportation vessels are responsible for the shipment of fishing supplies and fish between the fishing areas and China. Pingtan Fishing ships its goods by contracting with three affiliate marine transportation firms and Avona. The transportation cycle takes no more than 30 days, depending mainly on the fishing seasons. There is always a transportation vessel anchored in the port of the fishing base.
Seasonality
The peak season for the fishing industry in Indonesia is from October to January, which is when harvesting is most productive. During the low season, from May to July, there are fewer fish as they migrate to different areas. There is no off season for fishing in Pingtan Fishing’s dedicated fishing zone in Indonesia.
In addition to seasonality, our annual catches are affected by a number of unpredictable factors, such as weather patterns and fish migration, which are likely to vary from year to year.
Cold Storage
Fish are stored separately according to different species and sizes for best practices of cold storage management, goods selectivity and delivery. When Pingtan Fishing unloads the fish, it places the fish on a wood pallet according to fishing vessel number, specie and size. The cold storage administrator counts the number of bags on each pallet and weighs each pallet to record the weight. Pallets with bags of fish are then placed in specified positions within the cold storage facilities.
We have secured eight cold storages located in one of China’s largest seafood trading center, MaWei seafood market. The monthly rent for the cold storage is RMB80 ($13) per square meter and the leases are renewable annually. The following table sets forth information regarding the cold storages we currently rent as of December 31, 2013:
| | Storage Capacity | | | |
Cold Storage | | (sq. meters) | | Monthly rent | |
#301 | | 1,045 | | 13,613 | |
#302 | | 717 | | 9,340 | |
#602 | | 717 | | 9,340 | |
#103 | | 776 | | 10,109 | |
#303 | | 1,045 | | 13,613 | |
#401 | | 1,045 | | 13,613 | |
#402 | | 717 | | 9,340 | |
#403 | | 1,045 | | 13,613 | |
Total | | 7,107 | | 92,581 | |
Sales, Marketing and Distribution
We market, sell and distribute products all over China, including the Guangdong, Fujian and Zhejiang provinces. Ribbon fish and shrimp were the main types of fish sold for the year ended December 31, 2013, representing over 55% of the sales.
We have established long-term relationships with a number of customers, who send purchasing representatives to our cold storage facilities to select goods to purchase. The customer indicates the type, size and quantity as well as price and delivery schedules before the fish is moved into our cold storage facilities. Handling and transportation fees are borne by the customer when the goods are delivered. The proportion of these sales depends on the season and the nature of the catch including species, size and quality. Remaining products are sold out of cold storage within three months of landing.
As of December 31, 2013, we sold our fish to over 200 distributors and retailers by acting as a wholesaler. We serve a wide customer base and no customer accounted for more than 10% of the sales.
Vessels
As of December 31, 2013, we owned 104 trawlers and 2 drifter vessels and have an operating license right to 20 drifter vessels. Our fleet has an average useful life of approximately 17 years. These vessels are fully licensed to fish in Indonesian or Indian waters. 114 of these vessels are operating in Arafura Sea in Indonesia, and the remaining 12 vessels are operating in the Bay of Bengal in India.
Single trawling vessels drag pocket-shaped nets and therefore force the fish into the nets. The trawl net on a trawling vessel is drawn by a winch on the deck of the vessel. Fish are sorted and stored in the cold storage on board the vessel. Single trawling vessels can catch species living in the upper layer of water. It has the advantage of catching multiple species of fish, which leads to a varied catch. Single trawling vessels are the majority of fishing vessels we currently use. As of December 31, 2013, we operated 104 trawling vessels. 92 of the trawling vessels were in operation in Indonesian waters and the others were in Indian waters.
Drift netters have a gill net that is tied to the drift netter floats with weights attached to the net to keep it vertical, so that fish crossing the path of a drift net gets caught in it. Operations are generally carried out at night and the position of gill nets can be adjusted according to the water depth in which the fish move at any time. Drift netters are mainly used to catch dispersed fish or fish swimming in the upper layer of water. We operate 22 drift netterswhich are owned and 20 which we hold operation license rights to those vesselsas of December 31, 2013 and all of them are fishing in Indonesian waters.
Business Strategy
We are committed to developing its business to become a global, integrated seafood company. We plan to enlarge our fishing fleet in the next few years through organic growth and acquisition opportunities of potential targets, domestically and abroad, which will significantly increase our fishing capability and our market share.
We are actively seeking opportunities to expand to other fishing grounds worldwide including North America, South America and the High Sea, which will further diversify the fish types we harvest as well as decrease our dependence on Indonesia. We are also planning to extend to fish processing business. If we operate fish processing plants, we will market processed food products throughout all of China and worldwide. At the same time, we will strengthen our brand recognition in the market, which will allow us to achieve forward integration of the industrial chain and hence increase its profitability.
Competition
We engage in the fishing business in the Arafura Sea in Indonesia and the Bay of Bengal in India. Competition within our dedicated fishing areas is not significant, as the region is not currently overfished.
Competition in the market in China is high as fish compete with other sources of protein. We compete with other fishing companies which offer similar and varied products. There is significant demand for fish in the Chinese market. Our catch appeals to a wide segment of consumers because of the low price points of our products. We have generally been able to sell our catch at market prices, which have been increasing over the past 3 years.
Employees
As of December 31, 2013, we had 1,535 employees. The following table sets forth the number of employees by function as of December 31, 2013:
| | Number of Employees | | % of Total | |
Management and administrative staff | | | 45 | | 2.9 | % |
Crew members | | | 1,490 | | 97.1 | % |
Total | | | 1,535 | | 100.0 | % |
We also use local Indonesian and Indian contract labor to supplement the Chinese crew, which varies based on seasons. In addition, we engage Avona as our agent to contract with third party labor companies to hire local crew members and we pay the hiring costs based on the actual fees incurred. The Company and Avona settle this payment on a quarterly basis. Welfare and benefit payments for such personnel are covered by the company supplying the crew members.
Company History
China Equity Growth Investment Ltd. (“CGEI”) was incorporated in the Cayman Islands as an exempted limited liability company, was incorporated as a blank check company on January 18, 2010 with the purpose of directly or indirectly acquiring, through a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, plan of arrangement, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination, an operating business, or control of such operating business through contractual arrangements, that has its principal business and/or material operations located in the PRC. In connection with its initial business combination, CGEI changed its name to Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. in February 2013.
China Dredging Group Co., Ltd (“CDGC” or “China Dredging”) and Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd (“Merchant Supreme”) are limited liability companies incorporated on April 14, 2010 and June 25, 2012, respectively, in the British Virgin Islands (“BVI”).
China Dredging, through its PRC (althoughVariable Interest Entity (“VIE”), Fujian Xinggang Port Service Co., Ltd (“Fujian Service”), provided specialized dredging services exclusively to the PRC marine infrastructure market and is, based on the number and capacity of the dredging vessels it operates, one of the leading independent (not state-owned) providers of such services in the PRC. Since its inception, China Dredging has functioned exclusively as a specialist subcontractor, performing dredging services for other companies licensed to function as general contractors. China Dredging engages in capital dredging, maintenance dredging and reclamation dredging projects and primarily sources its projects by subcontracting projects from general contractors.
Merchant Supreme, through its PRC VIE, Fujian Provincial Pingtan County Ocean Fishing Group Co., Ltd. (“Pingtan Fishing”) engages in ocean fishery with its fleet of owned vessels or vessels operated under license rights within Indian EEZ and Arafura Sea of Indonesia. Pingtan Fishing is ranked highly as one of the leading private (not state-owned) supplier and trader of oceanic aquatic products in PRC.
CGEI and CDGC entered into the Merger Agreement dated October 24, 2012, providing for the combination of CGEI and CDGC. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, CDGC would continue as the surviving company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of CGEI. CGEI also acquired all of the outstanding capital shares and other equity interests of Merchant Supreme as per Share Purchase Agreement dated October 24, 2012. Following the completion of the business combination held on February 25, 2013, CDGC and Merchant Supreme became the wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company (the “Business Combination”). The ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share were listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “PME”.
On June 19, 2013, the Company entered into a master agreement with a related company, Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd (“Hong Long”) to acquire 46 fishing vessels with total consideration of $410.1 million. The major shareholder of Hong Long is Ms. Ping Lin, spouse of Xinrong Zhuo, the Company’s Chairman and CEO, who holds 66.5%. Mr. Zhuo currently holds about 56.2% of PME. On September 1, 2013, the Company further entered into a Memorandum with Hong Long that Hong Long transferred the operating license rights to 20 vessels to Pingtan Fishing. Pingtan Fishing is entitled to 100% of the operating results since September 1, 2013 onwards.
In December 2013, we maycompleted the sale of CDGC, which has been reported as a discontinued operation since the third quarter of 2013, to Hong Long. In July 2013, we received an offer from Mr. Zhuo to acquire an entitythe business and operating assets of our wholly-owned dredging subsidiary, CDGC and its PRC operating subsidiaries in exchange for (i) offset of our current $155.2 million 4% promissory note due to Hong Long on June 19, 2015; (ii) the assignment of the 25-year exclusive operating license rights for 20 new fishing vessels, with such rights appraised at $216.1 million; and (iii) offset of PME’s current accounts due to CDGC with amount $172.5 million. The value of the operating license rights of $216.1 million was recorded as prepaid operating license rights and will be accounted for over the license term of 25 years. These 20 fishing vessels received subsidies from China’s central government budget in 2012, and a recent notification from the Government prohibits the sale or transfer of ownership for a period of 10 years for fishing vessels that have received such subsidies.
The Board, excluding Mr. Zhuo and our Senior Officer, Mr. Bin Lin, retained our independent financial advisor to provide a fairness opinion on the transaction proposed by Mr. Zhuo. Subsequent to the receipt of the fairness opinion from our independent financial advisor on October 28, 2013, the Board agreed to evaluate any potential alternative proposals received during a 30 day period. After receiving no alternative proposals, on December 3, 2013, the Board, excluding Mr. Zhuo and Mr. Lin approved the completion of the transaction and executed and closed the Share Purchase Agreement. The total consideration of the transaction is
not incorporatedapproximately $543.8 million with a gain on sale of $134.7 million accounted for in
China but has its principal business and/or material operations in China). Our efforts to identify a prospective target business will not be limitedstockholders equity as it was sold to a
particular industry.On June 2, 2011,related party with common control.
The PME/Pingtan Fishing VIE Relationship
Pingtan Fishing and WFOE, Pingtan Guansheng Ocean Fishing Co., Ltd., our wholly-owned subsidiary, has entered into a series of variable interest entity agreements (“VIE Agreements”). Under the VIE Agreements, we, completed our initial public offeringamong other things, fully control Pingtan Fishing’s business operations, policies and management, approve all matters requiring shareholders’ approval, and receive 100% of 5,000,000 Units. We have neither engagedthe annual net income earned Pingtan Fishing. Below is a summary of the Pingtan VIE Agreements.
The VIE Agreements
Our relationship with Pingtan Fishing and its shareholders are governed by a series of contractual arrangements, which agreements provide as follows.
Exclusive Purchase Right of Equity Interest. In October 2012, Pingtan Fishing, its shareholders and the WFOE entered into an exclusive option agreement, pursuant to which the shareholders of Pingtan Fishing irrevocably granted to the WFOE an exclusive right to purchase up to all of the equity interest in any operations, nor generated any revenues, nor incurred any debt or expenses other than in connection with our initial public offering and, thereafter, expenses related to identifying and pursuing acquisitions of targets and expenses related to liquidating our trust fund for the benefit of our common stockholders and reconstituting the Company as an ongoing business corporation. We have incurred expenses only in connection with (i) the preparation and filing of our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, annual reports on Form 10-K and prospectuses and (ii) travel expenses related to finding and developing acquisition candidates. Our travel expense policies are consistent with good business practice, and we try to minimize such costsPingtan Fishing, to the extent possible.Opportunities for market expansion have emerged for businesses with operations in China dueallowed under the current PRC laws. Accordingly, if and when the current limitations on direct ownership of Pingtan Fishing by the current shareholders are eased or ceased to certain changes in the PRC’s political, economic and social policies as well as certain fundamental changes affectingapply under the PRC laws, WFOE may exercise its option to purchase and its neighboring countries. We believe that China represents both a favorable environmentdirectly own the equity interests of Pingtan Fishing. The purchase price for making acquisitions and an attractive operating environment for a target business for several reasons, including, among other things, increased government focus within China on privatizing assets, improving foreign trade and encouraging business and economic activity, which have led China to have one of the highest gross domestic product growth rates among major industrial countriesequity interest in Pingtan would be the worldminimum price as well as strong growth in many sectors of its economy driven, in part,permitted by emerging private enterprises. Notwithstanding the foregoing, business combinations with companies having operations in the PRC entail special considerations and risks, including the need to obtain financial statements audited or reconciled in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, or prepared or reconciled in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards of potential targets that have previously kept their accounts in accordance with GAAP of the PRC, the possible need for restructuring and reorganizing corporate entities and assets and the requirements of complex Chinese regulatory filings and approvals. These may make it more difficult for us to consummate our initial business combination.
Subject to the requirement that our initial business combination must be with a target business having its principal business and/or material operations in China (although we may acquire one entity that is not incorporated in China but has its principal business and/or material operations in China) our management will have virtually unrestricted flexibility in identifying and selecting a prospective target business, subject to the limits of PRC law. We have not established any other specific attributes or criteria (financial or otherwise) for prospective target businesses. In evaluating a prospective target business, our management may consider a variety of factors, including one or more of the following:
• financial condition and results of operation;
• growth potential;
• experience and skill of management and availability of additional personnel;
• capital requirements;
• competitive position;
• barriers to entry;
• stage of development of the products, processes or services;
• degree of current or potential market acceptance of the products, processes or services;
• proprietary features and degree of intellectual property or other protection of the products, processes or services;
• regulatory environment of the industry; and
• costs associated with effecting the business combination.
These criteria are not intended to be exhaustive. Any evaluation relating to the merits of a particular business combination will be based, to the extent relevant, on the above factors as well as other considerations deemed relevant by our management in effecting our initial business combination consistent with our business objective. In evaluating a prospective target business, we will conduct an extensive due diligence review which will encompass, among other things, meetings with incumbent management and inspection of facilities, as well as review of financial and other information which is made available to us. This due diligence review will be conducted either by our management or by unaffiliated third parties we may engage, although we have no current intention to engage any such third parties. We are also required to have all prospective target businesses execute agreements with us waiving any right, title, interest or claim of any kind in or to any monies held in the trust account. If any prospective target business refused to execute such agreement, we would cease negotiations with such target business.
The time and costs required to select and evaluate a target business and to structure and complete the business combination cannot presently be ascertained with any degree of certainty. Any costs incurred with respect to the identification and evaluation of a prospective target business with which a business combination is not ultimately completed will result in a loss to us and reduce the amount of capital available to otherwise complete our initial business combination.
In addition, most blank check companies are required to consummate their initial business combination with a target whose value is equal to at least 80% of the amount of money held in the trust account of the blank check companylaws at the time of entrythe transfer. The term of the exclusive option agreement is 20 years, which term continuously renews unless the option is exercised in full or the agreement is otherwise terminated by the parties. The agreement also provides that upon consummation of the exercise of the option, the shareholders will contribute, without additional consideration, any funds actually received by it from the WFOE for the transfer of its equity interest in Pingtan Fishing to the WFOE. The agreement further provides that, as of the date of the agreement, the WFOE is entitled to all the future payments by Pingtan Fishing to the shareholders, together with all the profits of Pingtan Fishing.
Contracted Management Agreement. In October 2012, the WFOE, Pingtan Fishing and its shareholders entered into a definitivemanagement agreement pursuant to which the WFOE has the exclusive right to manage, operate and control the business operations of Pingtan Fishing, including, but not limited to, establishing and implementing policies for a business combination. Because we are not subjectmanagement, using all of the assets of Pingtan Fishing, appointing Pingtan Fishing directors and senior management, directing Pingtan Fishing to this requirement,enter into loan agreement, making administrative decisions regarding employee wages or hiring and because we are not required to obtain a controlling interest in a target, we will have additional flexibility in identifyingfiring employees and selecting a prospective acquisition candidate.We will provide holders of our public sharesother actions customarily associated with the opportunityPingtan Fishing senior management and directors of Pingtan Fishing and its subsidiaries. As consideration for its business management services, the WFOE pays an annual fee to redeem their public shares for cash equalPingtan Fishing, and Pingtan Fishing pays to a pro rata sharethe WFOE 100% of the aggregate amount then on deposit in the trust account, less franchise and income taxes payable,net profits of Pingtan Fishing. The management agreement terminates upon the consummationearlier of our initial business combination,(i) the WFOE’s exercise in full of the option to purchase the equity interests of Pingtan Fishing, pursuant to the exclusive option agreement, and the WFOE and/or its designees individually or jointly own all of the equity interests in Pingtan Fishing, or (ii) 20 years after the effective date of the agreement subject to the limitations described herein. Unlike many other blank check companiesright of the WFOE to renew the term of the management agreement for additional consecutive 20-year period.
The Contracted Management Agreement provides that hold shareholder votesthe WFOE will pay an annual fee, which is currently RMB 1,000,000, to Pingtan Fishing as consideration for obtaining the operation and conduct proxy solicitationsmanagement rights of Pingtan Fishing, as well as 100% of its net profits. PRC law permits a company to manage and operate another company as an independent contractor. The amount of the consideration, which is customarily paid, may be agreed to by the parties and there is no statutory limit with regard to such compensation. In the Contracted Management Agreement executed between the WFOE and Pingtan Fishing, the consideration was agreed to by both parties in conjunctionformalizing the contract.
Power of Attorney.In October 2012, the shareholders of Pingtan Fishing executed an irrevocable power of attorney granting to the WFOE or its designees the power to vote, pledge or dispose of all equity interests in Pingtan Fishing that the shareholders hold. Additionally, the power of attorney grants to the WFOE or its designees the power to appoint directors and senior management of Pingtan Fishing.
Equity Interest Pledge Agreement.In October 2012, the WFOE, Pingtan Fishing and it shareholders entered into an equity interest pledge agreement. To ensure that Pingtan Fishing and its shareholders perform their obligations under the exclusive call option agreement, the management agreement and the power of attorney, the shareholders have pledged their entire interest in Pingtan Fishing to the WFOE. The equity interest pledge agreement will terminate upon the earlier of (i) the purchase of the entire equity interest in Pingtan Fishing by the WFOE or (ii) 20 years after the effective date of the agreement, subject to the right of the WFOE to renew the term of the equity interest pledge agreement for additional consecutive 20 year periods in case of the WFOE or its designee’s failure to purchase the entire equity interest in Pingtan Fishing within the initial 20 year term. The Equity Interest Pledge Agreement was registered with their initial business combinationsFuzhou AIC by Ms. Honghong Zhuo and provide for related redemptionsMr. Zhiyan Lin in December 2012, in order to legally pledge the entire equity interest of public shares for cash upon consummation of such initial business combinations even when a vote is notPingtan Fishing as required by law, we intendthe agreement.
The following diagram illustrates our corporate structure as of the date of this annual report:
Available Information
Our website address is www.ptmarine.com. Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to
consummate our initial business combination and conduct the redemptions without a shareholder votereports filed pursuant to
Rule 13e-4Sections 13(a) and
Regulation 14E15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
or(Exchange Act), are filed with the
Exchange Act, which regulate issuer tender offers, and will file tender offer documents with theU.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
or SEC. The tender offer documents will contain substantially(SEC). We are subject to the
same financial and other information about our initial business combination and the redemption rights as is required under Regulation 14Ainformational requirements of the Exchange Act
which regulates the solicitation of proxies. In the event we conduct redemptions pursuant to the tender offer rules, our offer to redeem shares shall remain open for at least 20 business days, in accordance with Rule 14e-1(a) under the Exchange Act. If, however, a shareholder vote is required by law, or we decide to hold a shareholder vote for business or other legal reasons, we will, like other blank check companies, offer to redeem shares in conjunction with a proxy solicitation pursuant to the proxy rules and
not pursuant to the tender offer rules. If we seek shareholder approval, we will consummate our initial business combination only if a majority of the outstanding ordinary shares voted are voted in favor of the business combination. In such case, our initial shareholders have agreed to vote their founder shares in accordance with the majority of the votes cast by the public shareholders and to vote any public shares purchased during or after this offering in favor of our initial business combination. In the event that we qualify as a “foreign private issuer,” within the meaning of the rules promulgated under the Exchange Act, at the time we would otherwise conduct a shareholder vote, we would not be subject to the proxy rules at such time, and thus would comply with the tender offer rules as opposed to seeking a shareholder vote in connection with a business combination.In no event, however, will we redeem the public shares in an amount that would cause our net tangible assets to be less than $5,000,001. If we enter into an acquisition with a prospective target that requires as a closing condition to our initial business combination that we maintain a minimum net worth or certain amount of cash that is substantially greater than $5,000,001, we will communicate the details of the closing condition to our public shareholders through our tender offer or proxy solicitation materials, as applicable. We are required to provide all of our shareholders with an opportunity to redeem all of their shares in connection with the consummation of any initial business combination. Consequently, if accepting all properly submitted redemption requests would cause our net tangible assets to be less than $5,000,001 or such greater amount necessary to satisfy a closing condition, as described above, we would not proceed with such redemption and the related business combination and may instead search for an alternate business combination.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, a public shareholder, together with any affiliate of his or any other person with whom he is acting in concert or as a partnership, syndicate or other group for the purpose of acquiring, holding or disposing of our securities, will be restricted from exercising shareholder redemption rights with respect to more than 10% of the shares sold in our initial public offering. Such a public shareholder would still be entitled to vote against a proposed initial business combination with respect to all shares owned by him or his affiliates. We believe this restriction will discourage shareholders from accumulating large blocks of ordinary shares before the vote held to approve a proposed initial business combination and attempt to use the shareholder redemption right as a means to force us or our management to purchase their ordinary shares at a significant premium to the then current market price. Absent this provision, a public shareholder who owns in excess of 10% of the ordinary shares sold in our initial public offering could threaten to vote against a proposed business combination and seek conversion, regardless of the merits of the transaction, if his shares are not purchased by us or our management at a premium to the then current market price (or if management refuses to transfer to him some of their shares). By limiting a shareholder’s ability to redeem only 10% of the shares sold in our initial public offering, we believe we have limited the ability of a small group of shareholders to unreasonably attempt to block a transaction which is favored by our other public shareholders. However, we are not restricting the shareholders’ ability to vote all of their shares against the transaction.
Management
Our management team represents a mix of entrepreneurs and investment and financial professionals with extensive operating and transactional experience in the PRC. We believe that the combination of the backgrounds of our management team and their networks of contacts will provide us with access to unique opportunities to effect our initial business combination.
Our management team, including our executive officers and the majority of our directors, has already been involved in the initial public offerings and the subsequent consummation of business combinations for two U.S. listed prior blank check companies focused on acquisition targets with operations in China as well as having acted as an advisor to two companies which each completed transactions with blank check companies. ChinaGrowth North Acquisition Corporation completed an initial public offering in January 2007, raising gross proceeds of approximately $40 million at an offering price of $8.00 per unit. In January 2009, ChinaGrowth North Acquisition Corporation acquired UIB Group Limited, an insurance brokerage firm in China. The combined entity has since deregistered under the Securities Exchange Act, and there is no longer any public market for the stock of UIB Group Limited. ChinaGrowth South Acquisition Corporation completed an initial public offering in January 2007, raising gross proceeds of approximately $40 million at an offering price of $8.00 per unit. In January 2009, ChinaGrowth South Acquisition Corporation merged with Olympia Media Holdings Limited, an aggregator and operator of print media businesses in China, which was renamed China TopReach, Inc. (OTCBB: CGSXF.OB) post-acquisition. Mr. Michael W. Zhang continues to serve as an independent director of China TopReach Inc. Mr. Zhang is a Director of Chum Capital Group Limited, a merchant banking firm in China which acted as the sole advisor to Origin Agritech Ltd. (NASDAQ:SEED) and Hollysys Automation Technologies, Ltd. (NASDAQ:HOLI) in their respective mergers with Chardan China Acquisition Corporation and Chardan North China Acquisition Corporation.
We Have Not Identified a Target Business
To date, we have not selected any target business on which to concentrate our search for a business combination.
We will have virtually unrestricted flexibility in identifying and selecting a prospective acquisition candidate. We have not established any specific attributes or criteria (financial or otherwise) for prospective target businesses. Accordingly, there is no basis for investors in this offering to evaluate the possible merits or risks of the target business with which we may ultimately complete our initial business combination. To the extent we effect our initial business combination with a financially unstable company or an entity in its early stage of development or growth, including entities without established records of sales or earnings, we may be affected by numerous risks inherent in the business and operations of financially unstable and early stage or potential emerging growth companies. Although our management will endeavor to evaluate the risks inherent in a particular target business, we cannot assure you that we will properly ascertain or assess all significant risk factors.
Sources of Target Businesses
While we have not yet identified any acquisition candidates, we believe based on our management’s business knowledge and past experience that there are numerous potential acquisition candidates. We anticipate that target business candidates will be brought to our attention from various unaffiliated sources, including investment bankers, venture capital funds, private equity funds, leveraged buyout funds, management buyout funds and other members of the financial community. Target businesses may be brought to our attention by such unaffiliated sources as a result of being solicited by us through calls or mailings. These sources may also introduce us to target businesses they think we may be interested in on an unsolicited basis, since many of these sources will have read this report and know that we are searching for target businesses having principal business and/or material operations in China. Our officers and directors, as well as their affiliates and network of entrepreneurs, may also bring to our attention target business candidates that they become aware of through their business contacts as a result of formal or informal inquiries or discussions they may have, as well as attending trade shows or conventions. While we do not presently anticipate engaging the services of professional firms or other individuals that specialize in business acquisitions on any formal basis, we may engage these firms or other individuals in the future, in which event we may pay a finder’s fee, consulting fee or other compensation to be determined in an arm’s length negotiation based on the terms of the transaction. Our management has experience in evaluating transactions, but will retain advisors as they deem necessary to assist them in their due diligence efforts. If we become aware of a potential business combination outside of the industries which our officers and directors have their most extensive experience, it is more likely that they would retain consultants and advisors with experience in such industries to assist in the evaluation of such business combination and in our determination of whether or not to proceed with such a business combination, although we are not required to do so and may determine that our management is able to make its own determinations based on its collective business experience. In no event, however, will any of our existing officers, directors or shareholders, or any entity with which they are affiliated, be paid any finder’s fee, consulting fee or other compensation by us or a target business prior to, or for any services they render in order to effectuate, the consummation of our initial business combination (regardless of the type of transaction that it is). If we determine to enter into our initial business combination with a target business that is affiliated with our officers, directors, special advisors or shareholders, we would do so only if we obtained an opinion from an independent investment banking firm reasonably acceptable to Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. that the business combination is fair to our unaffiliated shareholders from a financial point of view. However, as of the date of this report, there are no affiliated entities that we would consider as a business combination target.
We will not acquire an entity with which any of our officers or directors, through their other business activities, is currently having acquisition or investment discussions. Additionally, we do not anticipate (i) acquiring an entity with which our officers or directors, through their other business activities, had acquisition or investment discussions in the past, (ii) acquiring an entity that is either a portfolio company of, or has otherwise received a material financial investment from, any private equity fund or investment company (or an affiliate thereof) that is affiliated with any of our officers or directors or (iii) entering into a business combination where we acquire less than 100% of a target business and any of our officers, directors, initial shareholders or their affiliates acquire the remaining portion of such target business. However, if we determine to enter into such a transaction, we are required to obtain an opinion from an independent investment banking firm reasonably acceptable to Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. that the business combination is fair to our unaffiliated shareholders from a financial point of view.
Lack of business diversification
We expect to complete only a single business combination, although this may entail a simultaneous combination with several assets or several operating businesses at the same time. At the time of our initial business combination, we may not be able to acquire more than one target business because of various factors, including complex tax, accounting or financial reporting issues. For example, we may need to present pro forma financial statements reflecting the operations of several target businesses as if they had been combined historically.
A simultaneous combination with several target businesses also presents logistical issues such as the need to coordinate the timing of negotiations, proxy statement disclosure and closings. We may also be required to comply with business combination laws in several jurisdictions.
Accordingly, while it is possible that we may attempt to effect our initial business combination with more than one target business, we are more likely to choose a single target business if all other factors appear equal. This means that for an indefinite period of time, the prospects for our success may depend entirely on the future performance of a single business. Unlike other entities that have the resources to complete business combinations with multiple entities in one or several industries, it is probable that we will not have the resources to diversify our operations and mitigate the risks of being in a single line of business. By consummating an initial business combination with only a single entity, our lack of diversification may subject us to negative economic, competitive and regulatory developments, any or all of which may have a substantial adverse impact on the particular industry in which we operate after an initial business combination.
If we determine to effect business combinations simultaneously with several businesses and such businesses are owned by different sellers, we will need for each of the targets to agree that their business combination is contingent on the simultaneous closings of the other business combinations. We could also face additional risks, including additional burdens and costs with respect to possible multiple negotiations and due diligence investigations if there are multiple sellers and the additional risks associated with the subsequent assimilation of the operations and services or products of the companies in a single operating business.
If we complete our initial business combination structured as a merger in which the consideration is our share capital, we would have a significant amount of cash available with which we could make add-on acquisitions following our initial business combination.
Limited ability to evaluate the target business’s management
Although we intend to closely scrutinize the management of a prospective target business when evaluating the desirability of effecting our initial business combination with that business, we cannot assure you that our assessment of the target business’ management will prove to be correct. In addition, we cannot assure you that the future management will have the necessary skills, qualifications or abilities to manage a public company. Furthermore, the future role of members of our management team, if any, in the target business cannot presently be stated with any certainty. While it is possible that one or more of our officers or directors will remain associated in some capacity with us following an initial business combination, it is unlikely that any of them will devote their full efforts to our affairs subsequent to an initial business combination. Moreover, we cannot assure you that members of our management team will have significant experience or knowledge relating to the operations of the particular target business. We also cannot assure you that any of our key personnel will remain in senior management or advisory positions with the combined company. The determination as to whether any of our key personnel will remain with the combined company will be made at the time of our initial business combination.
Following an initial business combination, we may seek to recruit additional managers to supplement the incumbent management of the target business. We cannot assure you that we will have the ability to recruit additional managers, or that additional managers will have the requisite skills, knowledge or experience necessary to enhance the incumbent management.
Competition
In identifying, evaluating and selecting a target business, we may encounter intense competition from other entities having a business objective similar to ours. There are 21 blank check companies with approximately $1.53 billion that are seeking to enter into a business transaction. Furthermore, there are a number of additional offerings for blank check companies that are still in the registration process but have not completed initial public offerings and there are likely to be more blank check companies filing registration statements for initial public offerings after the date of this report and prior to our completion of our initial business combination. Additionally, we may be subject to competition from entities other than blank check companies having a business objective similar to ours, including venture capital firms, leverage buyout firms and operating businesses looking to expand their operations through the acquisition of a target business. Many of these entities are well established and have extensive experience identifying and effecting business combinations directly or through affiliates. Many of these competitors possess greater technical, human and other resources than us and our financial resources will be relatively limited when contrasted with those of many of these competitors. While we believe there may be numerous potential target businesses that we could acquire with the net proceeds of this offering, our ability to compete in acquiring certain sizable target businesses may be limited by our available financial resources. We will only have access to up to approximately $48,000,000 in our trust account to consummate a business combination. Accordingly, if we locate a target business that is valued at substantially more than $48,000,000 and the sellers of that target business wish to be paid in cash, we will be forced to obtain third party financing to complete such a transaction. Financing may not be available to us on terms acceptable to us or at all. Other blank check companies whose trust accounts are significantly larger than ours would not have the same problem in financing such a transaction. Accordingly, this inherent competitive limitation may give others an advantage in pursuing the acquisition of a target business. However, while the size of this offering may be smaller than other similarly structured blank check companies, we believe that our size is more consistent with the types of acquisitions that are consummated in China which typically have purchase prices of under $50 million. Furthermore, our ability to issue our securities in connection with any business combination would allow us to complete our initial business combination with a much larger target business. This is consistent with other similarly structured blank check companies that have issued securities in connection with their business combination with Chinese targets. We therefore believe that this competitive disadvantage may be reduced in our situation although we cannot assure you of this fact. The following also may not be viewed favorably by certain target businesses:
• our obligation to redeem into cash ordinary shares held by our public shareholders to such holders that exercise their redemption rights may reduce the resources available to us for a business combination; and
• our outstanding warrants, and the potential future dilution they represent.
Any of these factors may place us at a competitive disadvantage in successfully negotiating a business combination. Our management believes, however, that our status as a public entity and potential access to the U.S. public equity markets may give us a competitive advantage over privately-held entities having a similar business objective as ours in acquiring a target business with significant growth potential on favorable terms.
If we succeed in effecting our initial business combination, there will be, in all likelihood, intense competition from competitors of the target business. We cannot assure you that, subsequent to our initial business combination, we will have the resources or ability to compete effectively.
Liquidation if No Business Combination
If we have not completed a business combination within 21 months from the date of the consummation of this offering, public shareholders shall be entitled to receive a pro rata share of the trust account. If we are forced to liquidate, under Cayman Island Law, a liquidator would normally give at least 31 days’ notice to creditors by notifying known creditors (if any) who have not submitted claims and by placing a public advertisement in the Cayman Islands Official Gazette, that we have been placed into liquidation and such creditors are required to submit particulars of their debts or claims to us, although in practice this notice requirement need not necessarily delay the distribution of assets as the liquidator may be satisfied that no creditors would be adversely affected as consequence of a distribution before this time period has expired.
Pursuant to our memorandum and articles of association, upon the expiration of 21 months from the date of the consummation of this offering our purpose and powers will be limited to winding up our affairs and liquidating. Liquidating distributions will take place promptly after the expiration of 21 months. Also included in our memorandum and articles of association are the provisions requiring the voluntary liquidation of our company at that time. While our board of directors and our management have agreed not to propose any amendment to our memorandum and articles of association relating to our business combination or our automatic dissolution, nor to conduct a solicitation of shareholders for such purpose, our shareholders have the ability under Cayman Islands law to effect such an amendment with supermajority approval. In the event shareholders amend our memorandum and articles of association, our articles do not provide for redemption rights in connection with such amendment. All of our officers and directors directly or indirectly own ordinary shares in our company but have waived their right to receive distributions (other than with respect to ordinary shares, or any ordinary shares underlying units, they purchase in connection with this offering or in the after market) upon the liquidation of the trust account.
Facilities
We maintain our principal executive offices at A12 Jianguomenwai Avenue, NCI Tower, Suite 1602, Beijing, China 100022. We have also agreed to pay a monthly fee of $10,000 to Chum Capital Group Limited, an affiliate of Messrs. Song and Shi, for office space, utilities and for general and administrative services, including but not limited to receptionist, secretarial and general office services. This agreement commences on the date our securities are first quoted on the Nasdaq Capital Market and shall continue until the earlier of the consummation of our initial business combination and the winding-up and liquidation of our company. We consider our current office space, combined with the other office space otherwise available to our executive officers, adequate for our current operations.
Employees
We have two executive officers. These individuals are not obligated to devote any specific number of hours to our matters and intend to devote only as much time as they deem necessary to our affairs. The amount of time they will devote in any time period will vary based on whether a target business has been selected for the business combination and the stage of the business combination process the company is in. Accordingly, once management locates a suitable target business or businesses to acquire, they will spend more time investigating such target businesses and negotiating and processing the business combination (and consequently spend more time on our affairs) than they would prior to locating a suitable target business. We presently expect each of our executive officers to devote an average of approximately 10 hours per week to our business. We do not intend to have any full time employees prior to the consummation of our initial business combination.
Available Information
We file or submit to the SEC annual, quarterly and current periodicfurnish reports, proxy statements, and other information meetingwith the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. While we do not have a website with available filings, we will provide at no additional charge, copies of theseSEC. Such reports proxy and information statements and other information upon requestfiled by the Company with the SEC are available free of charge on our website at ir.ptmarine.com when such reports are available on the SEC's website. We use our ir.ptmarine.com website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor such portions of ir.ptmarine.com, in addition to our address at A12 Jianguomenwai Avenue, NCI Tower, Suite 1602, Beijing, China 100022. Youfollowing SEC filings and public conference calls and webcasts.
The public may also inspectread and copy these reports, proxy and information statements and other information, and related exhibits and schedules,any materials filed by Pingtan Marine with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room of the SEC at 100 F Street, NE, Room 1580, Washington, D.C.DC 20549. YouThe public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, theThe SEC maintains a websitean Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information filedregarding issuers that file electronically by us with the SEC whichat www.sec.gov.
The contents of the websites referred to above are availablenot incorporated into this filing. Further, our references to the URLs for these websites are intended to be inactive textual references only.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider each of the following risks associated with an investment in our publicly traded securities and all of the other information in our 2013 Annual Report. Our business may also be adversely affected by risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial. If any of the events contemplated by the following discussion of risks should occur, our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations may suffer.
Risks Relating to Our Business
We depend significantly on our Chief Executive Officer.
We are dependent on the
SEC’s website at http://www.sec.org.Item 1A.Risk Factors
We are a smaller reporting company as defined in Regulation S-K; as such, pursuant to Regulation S-K we are not required to make disclosures under this Item.
Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 2.Properties
Our executive office, which is our sole office space, is located at A12 Jianguomenwai Avenue, NCI Tower, Suite 1602, Beijing, China 100022. We consider our current office space adequate for our current operations. The cost for this space is included in the $10,000 per month which is paid to Chum Capital Group Limited, an affiliate of Messrs. Song and Shi.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
There is no material litigation, arbitration or governmental proceeding currently pending against us or anyprincipal members of our management teamstaff, and in their capacityparticular Xinrong Zhuo, our Chief Executive Officer. While we have entered into a three-year employment agreement with Mr. Zhuo, there are circumstances under the agreement in which Mr. Zhuo may elect to terminate his employment. Even if Mr. Zhuo were to terminate employment in breach of his agreement, we would have little or no practical recourse against Mr. Zhuo under PRC law. Mr. Zhuo may not continue to be employed by us for as such, andlong as we and therequire his services. In addition, we rely on members of our senior management team with industry experience for important aspects of our operations, and we believe that losing the services of these executive officers could be detrimental to our operations, and our operations because they would be difficult to replace. We do not have key-man life insurance for any of our executive officers or other employees.
We will need additional financing in order to execute our business plan, which may not be available to us.
We will need to obtain additional capital in order to execute its business plan to expand our operations by enlarging the fishing vessel fleet, expanding fishing ground worldwide and extend its business to fishmeal processing. Such additional capital may be raised by issuing securities through various financing transactions or arrangements, including joint ventures of projects, debt financing, equity financing or other means. Additional financing may not be available when needed on commercially reasonable terms or at all. The inability to obtain additional capital may reduce our ability to continue to conduct our business operations as currently contemplated.
Regulation of the fishing industry may have an adverse impact on our business.
For years, the international community has been aware of and concerned with the worldwide problem of depletion of natural fish stocks. In the past, these concerns have resulted in the imposition of quotas that subject individual countries to strict limitations on the amount of fish they are allowed to catch. Environmental groups have been lobbying to have additional limitations on fishing imposed and have even made suggestions that would limit the activities of fish farms. If international organizations or national governments were to impose additional limitations on fishing, this could have a negative impact on our results of operations.
The growth of our business depends on its ability to secure fishing licenses directly or through third parties.
Fishing is a highly regulated industry. Our operations require licenses, permits and in some cases renewals of licenses and permits from various governmental authorities. For example, commercial fishing operations are subject to government license requirements that permit them to make their catch. Our ability to obtain, sustain or renew such licenses and permits on acceptable terms is subject to changes in regulations and policies and to the discretion of the applicable governments, among other factors. Our inability to obtain, or a loss or denial of extensions, to any of these licenses or permits could hamper our ability to produce revenues from fishing operations.
We are dependent on affiliates and third parties for its operations.
A large portion of our transportation operations are conducted by three of our related parties, Haifeng Dafu Enterprise Company Limited, Hai Yi Shipping Limited and Hong Fa Shipping Limited. If for any reason these three companies became unable or unwilling to continue to provide services to us, this would likely lead to a temporary interruption in transportation at least until we found another entity that could provide these services. Failure to find a suitable replacement, even on a temporary basis, may have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
A large portion of our operations are conducted from a base owned by our related party PT. Avona Mina Lestari, or Avona. We contract with Avona for the right to use the base. Avona also handles certain agency services, including customs applications and fees for Merchant Supreme. If for any reason Avona became unable or unwilling to continue to provide its services to us, this would likely lead to a temporary interruption in our operations, at least until we found another entity that could provide these services. Failure to find a suitable replacement for Avona, even on a temporary basis, may have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
We may be adversely affected by fluctuations in raw material prices and selling prices of products.
The products and raw materials we use may experience price volatility caused by events such as market fluctuations, weather conditions or changes in governmental programs. Raw materials consist primarily of bait, including sardines, anchovies, mackerel and other small fish. The market price of these raw materials may also experience significant upward adjustment, if, for instance, there is a material under-supply or over-demand in the market. These prices changes may ultimately result in increases in the selling prices of products, and may, in turn, adversely affect our sales volume, revenue and operating profit.
We may not be able to effectively manage our growth, which may harm our profitability.
Our strategy is to expand our business. If we fail to effectively manage this growth, our financial results could be adversely affected. Growth may place a strain on management systems and resources, including business development capabilities, systems and processes and access to financing sources. As we grow, we must continue to hire, train, supervise and manage new employees. In connection with our fishing business, we may not be able to:
· meet capital needs;
· expand systems effectively or efficiently, or in a timely manner;
· allocate human resources optimally;
· identify and hire qualified employees or retain valued employees; or
· incorporate effectively the components of any business that may be acquired in our effort to achieve growth.
If we are unable to manage growth, our operations and financial results could be adversely affected by inefficiency, which could diminish our profitability.
Our business requires talented personnel who we may not be able to attract and retain.
We depend in large measure on the abilities, expertise, judgment, discretion, integrity and good faith of our management and other personnel in conducting the business of the company. We have a small management team, and the loss of a key individual or inability to attract suitably qualified staff could materially adversely impact the fishing business.
The key personnel of our fishing business are Mr. Deming Chen, vice general manager, Mr. Dong Wang, general coordinator of the shipping department, Mr. Qing Lin, assistant of the chairman of the board of directors, Mr. Longhao Zhuo, chief supervisor of the sales department, who is mainly responsible for wholesale and fresh sea food retail business. Mr. Lin assists the chairman in dealing with daily operating matters, such as developing business plans and managing and supervising related projects.
Our success depends on the ability of our management and employees to interpret and respond to economic, market and environmental conditions in its operating areas correctly. Further, our key personnel may not continue their association or employment, which and replacement personnel with comparable skills may not be available, which may adversely affect our business.
Our insurance coverage may be inadequate to cover we may incur or to fully replace a significant loss of assets.
Our involvement in the fishing industry may result in liability for pollution, property damage, personal injury or other hazards. Although we believe we have obtained insurance in accordance with PRC industry standards to address such risks, such insurance has limitations on liability and/or deductible amounts that may not be sufficient to cover the full extent of such liabilities or losses. In addition, such risks may not, in all circumstances, be insurable or, in certain circumstances, we may choose not to obtain insurance to protect against specific risks due to the high premiums associated with such insurance or for other reasons. The payment of such uninsured liabilities would reduce the funds available to us. If we suffer a significant event or occurrence that is not fully insured, or if the insurer of such event is not solvent, we could be required to divert funds from capital investment or other uses towards covering any liability or loss for such events.
Earthquakes, tsunamis, adverse weather or oceanic conditions or other calamities may disrupt ouroperations and could adversely affect sales.
Our fishing expeditions are based out of the Arafura Sea, Indonesia, and Merchant Supreme has cold storages located in MaWei in the Fujian province on the southeast coast of China. In 2004, an undersea earthquake occurred off the west coast of Sumatra Indonesia. This earthquake triggered a series of devastating tsunamis along the costs of most landmasses boarding the Indian Ocean. More than 225,000 people in 11 countries were killed, and coastal communities were inundated with waves up to 100 feet. Due to the location of our business, it may be at risk of experiencing another tsunami, earthquake or other adverse weather or oceanic conditions. This may result in the breakdown of facilities, such as its cold storage facilities, which could lead to deterioration of products with the potential for spoilage. This could also adversely affect the ability to fulfill sales orders and, accordingly, adversely affect profitability. Adverse weather conditions affecting the fishing grounds where our fishing vessels operate, such as storms, cyclones and typhoons, or cataclysmic events such as tsunamis, may also decrease the volume of fish catches or hamper fishing operations. Our operations may also be adversely affected by major climatic disruptions such as El Nino which in the past has caused significant decreases in seafood catches worldwide.
We may be affected by global climate change or by legal, regulatory or market responses to such changes.
The growing political and scientific sentiment is that increased concentrations of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are influencing global weather patterns. Fresh products, including seafood products, are vulnerable to adverse weather conditions, including windstorms, floods, drought and temperature extremes, which are quite common but difficult to predict and may be influenced by global climate change. Similarly, changing weather patterns, along with the increased frequency or duration of extreme weather conditions, could impact the availability of the fish species we catch.
Concern over climate change, including global warming, has led to legislative and regulatory initiatives directed at limiting greenhouse gas, or GHG, emissions. For example, proposals that would impose mandatory requirements on GHG emissions may be considered by policy makers in the territories in which we operate. Laws enacted that directly or indirectly affect fishing, distribution, packaging, cost of raw materials, fuel, and water could all adversely impact our business and financial results.
A dramatic reduction in fish resources may adversely affect our business.
We are in the business of catching and selling marine catch. Due to over-fishing, the stocks of certain species of fish may be dwindling and to counteract such over-fishing, governments may take action that may be detrimental to our ability to conduct operations. If the solution proffered or imposed by the governments controlling the fishing grounds were to limit the types, quantities and species of fish that we are able to catch, our operations and prospects may be adversely affected.
Changes in the policies of the PRC government impacting the fishing industry may adversely affect our business.
The fishing industry in the PRC is subject to policies implemented by the PRC government. The PRC government may impose restrictions on aspects of our business such as regulations for the management and ownership of vessels. If the raw materials used by us or our products become subject to any form of government control, then depending on the nature and extent of the control and our ability to make corresponding adjustments, we may face a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.
Separately, our business and operating results also could be adversely affected by changes in policies of the Chinese government such proceedingas: changes in laws, regulations or the interpretation thereof; confiscatory taxation; restrictions on currency conversion, imports on sources of supplies; or the expropriation or nationalization of private enterprises. Although the Chinese government has been pursuing economic reform policies for approximately two decades to liberalize the economy and introduce free market aspects, the government may not continue to pursue such policies and such policies may be significantly altered, especially in the event of a change in leadership, social or political disruption, or other circumstances affecting China’s political, economic and social life.
We have entered into certain pledge agreements pledging 22 fishing vessels as collateral to secure a loan to Hong Long, a fishing company controlled by spouse of Mr. Xinrong Zhuo. The pledge has no beneficial purpose for us and we could lose our fishing vessels if Hong Long were to default on the loans, whichcould be detrimental for our operations.
In October 2012, we entered into two pledge contracts with China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. pursuant to which we pledged 10 fishing vessels with carrying amounts of approximately $9,500,000, as collateral to secure Hong Long’s $10,300,000 in long-term loans from the financial institution, which are due April 18, 2015. In September 2013, we entered into two additional pledge contracts with China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. pursuant to which we pledged another 12 months precedingfishing vessels with carrying amounts of approximately $10,900,000, as collateral to secure Hong Long’s $9,911,300 in short-term loans from the financial institution, which are due June 25, 2014. Consequently, if Hong Long was to default on the loans and we would lose the vessels, it could be detrimental for our operations.
Risks Relating to Doing Business in the PRC
Certain political and economic considerations relating to PRC could adversely affect us.
The PRC is passing from a planned economy to a market economy. The Chinese government has confirmed that economic development will follow a model of market economy under socialism. While the PRC government has pursued economic reforms since its adoption of the open-door policy in 1978, a large portion of the PRC economy is still operating under five-year plans and annual state plans adopted by the government that set down national economic development goals. Through these plans and other economic measures, such as control on foreign exchange, taxation and restrictions on foreign participation in the domestic market of various industries, the PRC government exerts considerable direct and indirect influence on the economy. Many of the economic reforms are unprecedented or experimental for the PRC government, and are expected to be refined and improved. Other political, economic and social factors can also lead to further readjustment of such reforms. This refining and readjustment process may not necessarily have a positive effect on our operations or our business development. Our operating results may be adversely affected by changes in the PRC’s economic and social conditions as well as by changes in the policies of the PRC government, which we may not be able to foresee, such as changes in laws and regulations (or the official interpretation thereof), measures which may be introduced to control inflation, changes in the rate or method of taxation, and imposition of additional restrictions on currency conversion.
The recent nature and uncertain application of many PRC laws applicable to us create an uncertain environment for business operations and they could have a negative effect on us.
The PRC legal system is a civil law system. Unlike the common law system, such as the legal system used in the United States, the civil law system is based on written statutes in which decided legal cases have little value as precedents. In 1979, the PRC began to promulgate a comprehensive system of laws and has since introduced many laws and regulations to provide general guidance on economic and business practices in the PRC and to regulate foreign investment. Progress has been made in the promulgation of laws and regulations dealing with economic matters such as corporate organization and governance, foreign investment, commerce, taxation and trade. The promulgation of new laws, changes of existing laws and the abrogation of local regulations by national laws could have a negative impact on our, business and prospects. In addition, as these laws, regulations and legal requirements are relatively recent, their interpretation and enforcement involve significant uncertainty.
The political and economic policies of the PRC government could affect our businesses and results of operations.
The economy of the PRC differs from the economies of most developed countries in a number of respects, including the degree of government involvement, control of capital investment, and the overall level of development. Before its adoption of reform and open up policies in 1978, China was primarily a planned economy. In recent years the PRC government has been reforming the PRC economic system and the government structure. These reforms have resulted in significant economic growth and social progress. Economic reform measures, however, may be adjusted, modified or applied inconsistently from industry to industry or across different regions of the country. As a result, we may not continue to benefit from all, or any, of these measures. In addition, it cannot be predicted whether changes in the PRC’s political, economic and social conditions, laws, regulations and policies will have any adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The PRC legal system is evolving and has inherent uncertainties regarding interpretation and enforcement of PRC laws and regulations that could limit the legal protections available to you.
Pingtan Fishing, our PRC operating company, is organized under the laws of the PRC. The PRC legal system is based on written statutes. Prior court decisions may be cited for reference but have limited weight as precedents. Since 1979, the PRC government has been developing a comprehensive system of commercial laws and considerable progress has been made in introducing laws and regulations dealing with economic matters such as foreign investment, corporate organization and governance, commerce, taxation and trade. However, because these laws and regulations are relatively new, and because of the limited number and non-binding nature of published cases, the interpretation and enforcement of these laws and regulations involve uncertainties.
Our operations and assets in the PRC are subject to significant political and economic uncertainties.
Changes in PRC laws and regulations, or their interpretation, or the imposition of confiscatory taxation, restrictions on currency conversion, imports and sources of supply, devaluations of currency or the nationalization or other expropriation of private enterprises could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. The PRC government has been pursuing economic reform policies that encourage private economic activity and greater economic decentralization. The PRC government may continue to pursue these policies, and it may significantly alter these policies from time to time without notice.
The consummation of the acquisition by the Pingtan Fishing share purchase agreement and the reorganization plan carried out by Pingtan Fishing may require prior approval from MOFCOM or the CSRC, which may subject us to sanctions or adversely affect our business, results of operations, reputation and prospects.
On August 8, 2006, six PRC regulatory authorities, including the Ministry of Commerce, or MOFCOM, the State Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, the State Administration for Taxation, the State Administration for Industry and Commerce, the China Securities Regulatory Commission, or the CSRC, and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, or SAFE, jointly issued the Regulations on Mergers and Acquisitions of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Investors, which became effective on September 8, 2006 and was amended on June 22, 2009 by the MOFCOM, or the M&A Regulations. The M&A Regulations, among other things, require that the approval from MOFCOM be obtained for acquisitions of affiliated domestic entities by foreign entities established or controlled by domestic natural persons or enterprises, and also require that an offshore special purpose vehicle, or SPV, formed for purposes of overseas listing of equity interests in PRC companies and controlled directly or indirectly by PRC companies or individuals, obtain the approval of the CSRC prior to the listing and trading of such SPV’s securities on an overseas stock exchange. On September 21, 2006, the CSRC published on its official website procedures regarding its approval of overseas listings by SPVs. The CSRC approval procedures require the filing of a number of documents with the CSRC.
The application of the M&A Regulations remains unclear as of the date of this
report.10-K submission, with no consensus among leading PRC law firms regarding the scope and applicability of the CSRC approval requirement. Pingtan Fishing’s PRC legal counsel has advised, based on its understanding of current PRC laws, regulations and rules, that the M&A Regulations are not applicable to the consummation of the acquisition by the Pingtan Fishing share purchase agreement and the reorganization plan carried out by Pingtan Fishing because Merchant Supreme’s founder and controlling shareholder, Mr. Xinrong Zhuo, is not a mainland PRC natural person. However, the relevant PRC government authorities, including MOFCOM and the CSRC, may reach a different conclusion. If it is decided that the prior approval from MOFCOM or the CSRC is required, we may face sanctions by MOFCOM, the CSRC or other PRC regulatory agencies. Consequently, it is possible that MOFCOM, the CSRC or other PRC regulatory agencies may impose fines and penalties on our operations in the PRC, limit such operations, or take other actions that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, reputation and prospects.
The Circular of Security Review and the Regulations of Security Review provide that any foreign investor should file an application with MOFCOM for the merger and acquisition of domestic enterprises in sensitive sectors or industries. Further, MOFCOM has, for its inner review process, stipulated a range of the business operation items which are required to be reviewed. With reference to such business items, Pingtan Fishing believes that the Regulations of Security Review do not apply to the business operations of Pingtan Fishing. However, the relevant PRC regulatory authorities may have a different view or interpretation in this regard when implementing the Regulations of Security Review. If it is decided that the acquisition by the Pingtan Fishing share purchase agreement may materially affect the state security of the PRC, we may be ordered to restore the shareholding structure to the status before the consummation of the said acquisition, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, reputation and prospects.
Item 4.Mine Safety DisclsuresIf SAFE determines that its foreign exchange regulations concerning “round-trip” investment apply to our shareholding structure, a failure by our shareholders or beneficial owners to comply with these regulations may restrict our ability to distribute profits, restrict our overseas and cross-border investment activities or subject us to liability under PRC laws, which may materially and adversely affect our business and prospects.
Not Applicable.
PART II
Item 5.Market
SAFE Circular No. 75 provides that those domestic individuals who hold a PRC identity card, passport or other legal identity supporting document, or who have no such legal identity in mainland PRC but are habitually residing in PRC for the sake of economic interest, whether they hold a PRC identity supporting document or not, should register with the local SAFE branch prior to their establishment or control of an offshore SPV. In addition, any PRC citizen, resident, or entity which is a direct or indirect shareholder of an SPV is required to update the previously filed registration with the local branch of SAFE, with respect to that SPV, to reflect any material change. Moreover, a PRC subsidiary of an SPV is required to urge its shareholders who are PRC citizens, residents, or entities to update their registration with the local branch of SAFE. If a PRC shareholder with a direct or indirect equity interest in an offshore parent company fails to make the required SAFE registration, the PRC subsidiaries of such offshore parent company may be prohibited from paying the offshore parent proceeds from any reduction in capital, share transfer or liquidation in respect of the PRC subsidiaries. Failure to comply with the SAFE Circular No. 75 could result in liability under PRC law for violation of the relevant rules relating to transfers of foreign exchange.
Our founder and controlling shareholder, Mr. Xinrong Zhuo, obtained his Hong Kong identity card in 2005 and surrendered his PRC identity card subsequently thereto. SAFE Circular No. 75 provides that individuals without PRC identities that habitually reside in mainland China for the sake of economic interest should be considered PRC residents, who are required to register their direct or indirect investments in offshore SPVs with the local branch of SAFE. SAFE Circular No. 75 further provides that individuals who have their permanent domicile in mainland China and have been permanently residing in mainland China after temporary departure should be considered PRC residents, no matter whether they have a PRC identity or not. Although he leaves the PRC from time to time and maintains his Hong Kong identity card, Mr. Xinrong Zhuo has been residing in mainland China for most of the time since the SAFE Circular No. 75 became effective. Accordingly, it is possible that PRC authorities may consider Mr. Zhuo to be PRC resident. As of the date of this10-K submission, Mr. Zhuo has not made registrations or filings according to SAFE Circular No. 75. Due to uncertainty over how SAFE Circular No. 75 will be interpreted and implemented, we cannot predict how SAFE Circular No. 75 will affect our business operations or future strategies following the business combination. If SAFE Circular No. 75 is determined to apply to us or any of our PRC resident shareholders, none of whom to our knowledge has made registrations or filings according to SAFE Circular No. 75, a failure by any such shareholders or beneficial owners to comply with SAFE Circular No. 75 may subject the relevant shareholders or beneficial owners to penalties under PRC foreign exchange administrative regulations, and may subject us to fines or legal sanctions, restrict our overseas or cross-border investment activities, limit our subsidiaries’ ability to make distributions or pay dividends or affect our ownership structure and capital inflow from the offshore entity, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and liquidity. In addition, we may not be informed of the identities of our beneficial owners and our Chinese resident beneficial owners, if any, may not comply with SAFE Circular No. 75. The failure or inability of our beneficial owners who are PRC citizens, residents or entities to make or amend any required registrations may subject these PRC residents or our PRC subsidiary to fines and legal sanctions, and may also limit our ability to contribute additional capital into our PRC subsidiary and limit our PRC subsidiary’s ability to make distributions or pay dividends to us, as a result of which our business operations and our ability to distribute profits to its shareholders may be materially and adversely affected.
In December 2009, the PRC State Administration for Taxation issued a notice, known as “Circular 698,” addressing PRC income tax issues in connection with transfers of equity by a non-PRC resident enterprise that directly or indirectly holds an interest in a PRC resident enterprise. Circular 698 requires certain tax filings with, and the submission of comprehensive information to, the applicable tax authorities regarding transfers of equity by a non-PRC resident enterprise that directly or indirectly holds an interest in a PRC resident enterprise. The filings and submissions are designed to assist the taxing authorities in evaluating whether the transfer has a reasonable business purpose. If the transfer does not have a reasonable business purpose, Circular 698 provides that the seller is subject to PRC income tax on the gains received from the transfer of the PRC resident enterprise. Although the tax obligations generally apply to the seller, the PRC resident enterprise that is transferred is also subject to certain requirements to assist the PRC tax authorities in collecting the taxes, potentially including withholding agent obligations. Circular 698 is relatively new with limited implementation guidance, and it is uncertain how it will be interpreted, implemented or enforced. For Registrant’s Commonexample, there is no clear guidance regarding what constitutes a “reasonable business purpose” or the assistance obligation applicable to the transferred PRC resident enterprise. We cannot predict how Circular 698 will apply to current or future acquisition strategies and business operations. For example, if our affiliated PRC entities are deemed to have been sold through an offshore holding company, we may face comprehensive filing obligations that could result in significant taxes, potential sanctions or other enforcement action, or other adverse considerations, which could have an adverse impact on our ability to consummate such a transaction or expand our business and market share.
We may be classified as a PRC “resident enterprise” under the PRC enterprise income tax law, which could result in unfavorable tax consequences for us and our shareholders and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
Under the Enterprise Income Tax Law of the PRC, or the EIT Law, dividends, interests, rent, royalties and gains on transfers of property payable by a foreign-invested enterprise in China to its foreign investor who is a non-resident enterprise will be subject to a 10% withholding tax, unless such non-resident enterprise’s jurisdiction of incorporation has a tax treaty with China that provides for a reduced rate of withholding tax. Under the arrangement for avoidance of double taxation between mainland China and Hong Kong, the effective withholding tax applicable to a Hong Kong non-resident company is 5% if it directly owns no less than a 25% stake in the Chinese foreign-invested enterprise.
Under the EIT Law, an enterprise established outside China with its “de facto management body” within China is considered a “resident enterprise” in China and is subject to the Chinese enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on its worldwide income. We may be deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise under the EIT Law and be subject to the PRC enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on its worldwide income. If the Chinese tax authorities determine that we should be classified as a resident enterprise, foreign securities holders will be subject to a 10% withholding tax upon dividends payable by us and subject to income tax upon gains on the sale of securities under the EIT Law.
Due to various restrictions under PRC laws on the distribution of dividends by PRC operating companies, we may not be able to pay dividends to our shareholders.
The Wholly-Foreign Owned Enterprise Law (1986), as amended, The Wholly-Foreign Owned Enterprise Law Implementing Rules (1990), as amended, and the Company Law of the PRC (2006) contain the principal regulations governing dividend distributions by Wholly-Foreign Owned Enterprises, or WFOEs. Under these regulations, WFOEs may pay dividends only out of their accumulated profits, if any, determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Additionally, they are required to set aside each year 10% of its net profits, if any, based on PRC accounting standards, to fund a statutory surplus reserve until the accumulated amount of such reserve reaches 50% of their respective registered capital. These reserves are not distributable as cash dividends except in the event of liquidation and cannot be used for working capital purposes. The PRC government also imposes controls on the conversion of RMB into foreign currencies and the remittance of currencies out of the PRC. We may experience difficulties in completing the administrative procedures necessary to obtain and remit foreign currency for the payment of dividends from the profits of our WFOE.
Furthermore, if our subsidiaries in the PRC incur debt on their own in the future, the instruments governing the debt may restrict their ability to pay dividends or make other payments. If we or our subsidiaries are unable to receive all of the economic value from the operations of our PRC subsidiary through contractual or dividend arrangements, we may be unable to pay dividends on our ordinary shares.
Because our principal assets are located outside of the United States and our directors and officers reside outside of the United States, it may be difficult for you to enforce your rights based on the United States federal securities laws against us and our officers and directors in the United States or to enforce foreign judgments or bring original actions in the PRC against us or our management.
All of our officers and directors reside outside of the United States. In addition, our operating subsidiaries are located in the PRC and all of their assets are located outside of the United States. The PRC does not have a treaty with United States providing for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments of courts. Therefore, it may be difficult for investors in the United States to enforce their legal rights based on the civil liability provisions of the United States federal securities laws against us in the courts of either the United States or the PRC and, even if civil judgments are obtained in courts of the United States, to enforce such judgments in PRC courts.
In addition, since we are incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands and our corporate affairs are governed by the laws of the Cayman Islands, it may not be possible for investors to originate actions against us or our directors or officers based upon PRC laws, and it may be difficult, if possible at all, to bring actions based upon Cayman Islands laws in the PRC in the event that you believe that your rights as a shareholder have been infringed.
Our employment practices may be adversely impacted under the labor contract law of the PRC.
The PRC National People’s Congress promulgated the Labor Contract Law, which became effective on January 1, 2008. Compared to previous labor laws, the Labor Contract Law provides stronger protection for employees and imposes more obligations on employers. According to the Labor Contract Law, employers have the obligation to enter into written labor contracts with employees to specify the key terms of the employment relationship. The law also stipulates, among other things, (i) that all written labor contracts shall contain certain requisite terms; (ii) that the length of trial employment periods must be in proportion to the terms of the relevant labor contracts, which in any event may not be longer than six months; (iii) that in certain circumstances, a labor contract is deemed to be without a fixed term and thus an employee can only be terminated with cause; and (iv) that there are certain restrictions on the circumstances under which employers may terminate labor contracts as well as the economic compensations to employees upon termination of the employee’s employment.
In addition, if we decide to significantly change or downsize our workforce, the Labor Contract Law could restrict our ability to terminate employee contracts and adversely affect our ability to make such changes to our work force in a manner that is most favorable to our business or in a timely and cost effective manner, which in turn may materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. If we are subject to severe penalties or incur significant legal fees in connection with labor law disputes or investigations, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.
Investors will have limited access to corporate records filed with the relevant PRC government authorities by the PRC operating entities.
All our PRC subsidiaries are companies registered in Fujian Province. The PRC State Administration for Industry and Commerce and its local counterparts, or collectively SAIC, is the PRC government authority governing the market supervision and administrative enforcement of various business licensing laws. According to the relevant SAIC regulations, certain corporate records of a company should be filed with SAIC, for example, the annual financial report, shareholder changes, amendments of articles of association, registered capital changes, capital verification reports and equity interest pledge registration. In Fujian Province, an individual can gain access to information filed with SAIC only with the authorization of the company for which such information is filed. Alternatively, access to information can be granted by an order of a PRC people’s court, provided that the individual requesting the information is a party to litigation involving the company in question. Due to such restrictions, investors will have limited access to corporate records filed with the SAIC by our PRC affiliates.
Currency fluctuations and restrictions on currency exchange may adversely affect our business, including limiting our ability to convert Renminbi into foreign currencies and, if Renminbi were to decline in value, reducing our revenue in U.S. dollar terms.
Our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar and our operations in the PRC use their local currency as their functional currencies. Substantially all of our revenue and expenses are in Renminbi. Accordingly, we are subject to the effects of exchange rate fluctuations with respect to any of these currencies. For example, the value of the Renminbi depends to a large extent on PRC government policies and the PRC’s domestic and international economic and political developments, as well as supply and demand in the local market. Since 1994, the official exchange rate for the conversion of Renminbi to the U.S. dollar had generally been stable and the Renminbi had appreciated slightly against the U.S. dollar. However, in July 2005, the PRC government changed its policy of pegging the value of Renminbi to the U.S. dollar. Under the new policy, Renminbi may fluctuate within a narrow and managed band against a basket of certain foreign currencies. As a result of this policy change, Renminbi appreciated more than 20% against the U.S. dollar in the following three years. Since July 2008, however, the Renminbi has traded within a narrow range against the U.S. dollar. As a consequence, the Renminbi has fluctuated significantly since July 2008 against other freely traded currencies, in tandem with the U.S. dollar. On June 19, 2010, the People’s Bank of China, or the PBOC, announced that the PRC government would further reform the Renminbi exchange rate regime and increase the flexibility of the exchange rate. It is difficult to predict how this new policy may impact the Renminbi exchange and the Renminbi may not be stable against the U.S. dollar or any other foreign currency.
The statements of our operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates in each applicable period. To the extent the U.S. dollar strengthens against foreign currencies, the translation of these foreign currency denominated transactions results in reduced revenue, operating expenses and net income for our operations. Similarly, to the extent the U.S. dollar weakens against foreign currencies, the translation of these foreign currency denominated transactions results in increased revenue, operating expenses and net income for our operations. We are exposed, to foreign exchange rate fluctuations in converting the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries into U.S. dollars in consolidation. If there is a change in foreign currency exchange rates, the conversion of the foreign subsidiaries’ financial statements into U.S. dollars will lead to a translation gain or loss which is recorded as a component of other comprehensive income. In addition, if we have, assets or liabilities that are denominated in currencies other than the relevant entity’s functional currency, changes in the functional currency value of these assets and liabilities would create fluctuations that lead to a transaction gain or loss. Although our major operations are conducted overseas, our sales are conducted in the PRC and in RMB, which is our functional currency. The average exchange rate used in translating the results of operations and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 from RMB to U.S. dollars was 6.1412 and 6.3116, respectively, which represented a 2.7% increase from 2012 to 2013 in the value of the RMB against the U.S. dollar. The average exchange rate used in translating the results of operations and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was 6.3116 and 6.4640, respectively, which represented a 2.4% increase from 2011 to 2012 in the value of the RMB against the U.S. dollar. We have not entered into agreements or purchased instruments to hedge exchange rate risks, although we may do so in the future. The availability and effectiveness of any hedging transaction may be limited and we may not be able to successfully hedge its exchange rate risks.
Although PRC governmental policies were introduced in 1996 to allow the convertibility of Renminbi into foreign currency for current account items, conversion of Renminbi into foreign exchange for capital items, such as foreign direct investment, loans or securities, requires the approval of SAFE, which is under the authority of the PBOC. These approvals, however, do not guarantee the availability of foreign currency conversion. We may not be able to obtain all required conversion approvals for our operations and PRC regulatory authorities may impose greater restrictions on the convertibility of Renminbi. Because we expect a significant amount of our revenue to continue to be in the form of Renminbi, our inability to obtain the requisite approvals or any future restrictions on currency exchanges could limit our ability to utilize revenue generated in Renminbi to fund our business activities outside of the PRC, or to repay foreign currency obligations, including our debt obligations, which would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Contractual arrangements, including voting proxies, with our affiliated entities for Pingtan Fishing’s fishing business may not be as effective in providing operational control as direct or indirect ownership.
Pursuant to our contractual arrangements, if Pingtan Fishing, Merchant Supreme’s PRC operating company, or the shareholders of Pingtan Fishing fail to perform their obligations under these contractual arrangements, we may be forced to (i) incur substantial costs and resources to enforce such arrangements, including the voting proxies, and (ii) rely on legal remedies available under PRC law, including exercising the call option right over the equity interests in Pingtan Fishing, seeking specific performance or injunctive relief, and claiming monetary damages. However, there are various difficulties related to the enforcement of these contractual arrangements. For example, any legal remedies must be sought by Pingtan Guansheng Ocean Fishing Co., Ltd., or Pingtan GuanSheng because Pingtan GuanSheng, Pingtan Fishing’s WFOE, is the direct contract party to the contractual arrangements, and injunctive relief is not likely to be available under PRC law in the circumstances of a breach of these arrangements. Limitations on foreign ownership may prevent us from exercising the call option. In addition, even in the event of a grant of monetary damages by a PRC court, Pingtan GuanSheng may not collect such damages if the opposite party(ies) in a litigation are incapable of payment. Pingtan GuanSheng may exercise the rights underlying the equity pledge agreement to receive payment of the proceeds from disposal of the pledged equity interest in Pingtan Fishing, but in such event the monetary damages will be limited to the amount pledge under the equity pledged agreement. In the event that we are unable to enforce these contractual arrangement, or if suffer significant time delays or other obstacles in the process of enforcing these contractual arrangements our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Due to historical defects in its capital contributions of Pingtan Fishing, we may be subject to administrative liability.
The current PRC Companies Law provides that shareholders must make the full amount of capital contribution subscribed to by such shareholder under the articles of association of the company. The form of capital contribution may be currency or non-currency property, such as property, intellectual property rights and land-use rights that can be evaluated in the form of currency and transferred in accordance with the applicable law. Under the PRC Companies Law, the non-currency property to be contributed as capital shall undergo an asset valuation and verification, and shall not be overvalued or undervalued. The property rights of such non-currency property shall be transferred in accordance with legally prescribed procedures. If a company obtains company registration in violation of the PRC Companies Law by making false statement of registered capital, submitting false certificates or by concealing material facts through other fraudulent means, the company shall be ordered to make rectification. In the event false statements regarding registered capital were made, the company shall also be fined no less than five percent but no more than fifteen percent of the amount of registered capital falsely stated. Further, a company submitting false certificates or concealing material facts may be fined no less than RMB50,000 but no more than RMB500,000.
Pingtan Fishing was established in February 1998 with registered capital of RMB10,000,000, by three founders, Fujian Pingtan County Fishing Development Co., Fujian Pingtan County Shengfa Pingtan Fishing Co., Ltd. and Fujian Pingtan County Shunda Fishing Co., Ltd., all of whom made in-kind contributions to Pingtan Fishing. However, no information regarding any specific category of in-kind contribution was disclosed in the registration records of Pingtan Fishing in Pingtan County SAIC. Further, no assessment report or materials regarding the title transfer for such in-kind contributions were disclosed in the registration record.
In September 2002, Fujian Pingtan County State-owned Asset Operation Co., Ltd., or Pingtan State-owned Co., a PRC state-owned enterprise, injected investment of non-currency property, which was half of its land-use right in an area in Pingtan County, at the price of RMB7,000,000 and obtained 70% equity interest in Pingtan Fishing. However, the transfer procedure for such land-use right has not been conducted and the registered capital of Pingtan Fishing was never changed.
The local government authority for company registration has confirmed that since its establishment no information record has been found regarding the violation of the applicable governmental company management laws by Pingtan Fishing. However, due to the lack of certain documents in the registration record of Pingtan Fishing, if the applicable company registration authority determines that Pingtan Fishing has had one or more deficiencies in it historical capital contributions, we may be subject to the fines.
Due to the defect in the state-owned equity interest transfer in Pingtan Fishing’s past, it, and we may be subject to a determination of invalidity of such equity interest transfer and may be liable for the applicable administrative liability.
According to the Provisional Regulations of Supervision and Administration of State-owned Assets in the Enterprise, promulgated by the State Council on May 27, 2003, and the Provisional Management Measure for the Transfer of the State-owned Equity Related Stockholder Mattersin an Enterprise, promulgated by State-owned Assets Supervision and Issuer PurchasesAdministration Commission and Ministry of Finance on December 31, 2003, or collectively the State-owned Assets Regulations, the State-owned assets supervision and administration authority shall determine the matters of the transfer of its state-owned equity in an enterprise which it has invested. Further, the sale of state-owned equity in a company by a state-owned entity shareholder must be approved by the governmental authority at the same ranking as that of the state-owned entity shareholder, provided that after the transfer the state-owned entity may not hold more than 50% equity interest in such company.
On December 10, 2004, Fujian Yihai Investment Co., Ltd and Chen Cheng obtained all the equity interest in Pingtan Fishing by an equity interest transfer from the former shareholders, or the 2004 Equity
SecuritiesMarket Information
FollowingTransfer, including Pingtan State-owned Co., and the registered capital of Pingtan Fishing increased to RMB25,000,000. A state-owned asset transfer was involved in the equity interest transfer, as Pingtan State-owned Co. is a state-owned company. According to State-owned Assets Regulations, such equity interest transfer should be determined by the Fuzhou municipal state-owned asset supervising authority and approved by the Fuzhou Municipal Government. However, the applicable approval was not obtained at the time of the 2004 Equity Transfer, which was only approved by Pingtan County Government. According to 1999 PRC Contract Law, a contract shall be null and void under any of the following circumstances: (1) a contract is concluded through the use of fraud or coercion by one party to damage the interests of the state; (2) malicious collusion is conducted to damage the interests of the state, a collective or a third party; (3) an illegitimate purpose is concealed, under the guise of legitimate acts; (4) public interests are damaged; or (5) a violation the compulsory provisions of the laws and administrative regulations. Currently, none of the violations described above have been found with regard to the equity transfer contract for the 2004 Equity Transfer. Given that the 2004 Equity Transfer has been confirmed by Pingtan Government, Pingtan Fishing believes that it is unlikely that the transfer will be determined to be invalid. However, the government authority may reach the different conclusion and we may face an order of rectification, which would be time consuming and our initial public offeringbusiness operations may be adversely affected.
We may be subject to certain penalties due to Pingtan Fishing lacking various PRC certificates or licenses and our business may be affected by the failure to renew some such certificates or licenses.
According to the PRC Fishing Vessels Inspection Regulation promulgated by PRC National Council in June 2003, if a fishing vessel operates without the Inspection Certificate after the applicable inspection process, such vessel may be confiscated by the relevant authority. The owner of a fishing vessel who does not apply for the required operation inspection for such vessel can be ordered to cease operations and apply for inspection within the time limit required by the relevant authority. In the event that a company fails to apply for an annual inspection, as ordered by the relevant authority, the company may be fined between RMB1,000 to RMB10,000 and the Annual Inspection Certificates held by the company may be temporarily suspended.
According to to PRC Radio Management Regulations promulgated by the PRC National Council and PRC Centre Military Committee in September 1993, as well as the License of Radio Station Management Regulations promulgated by Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in February 2009, a company who sets up or uses a radio station in a vessel must obtain a Radio Station License. Failing to do so may result in a fine of up to RMB5,000 and the radio station facilities may be confiscated.
The PRC is a member of 1973 International Pollution Prevention Convention, amended in 1978. According to the provisions of such convention and relevant PRC laws and regulations, the vessels owned by Pingtan Fishing should have a Sewage Pollution Prevention Certificates. We may be subject to a fine of up to RMB200,000 once its vessels enter into PRC territorial seas due to lacking the certificate and relevant facilities for pollution prevention.
According to the PRC Fishery Management Regulation promulgated by PRC Ministry of Agriculture in April 2003, in the event that an enterprise has not obtained a valid inspection certificate or any other applicable certificates, such company may be subject to penalties imposed by applicable governmental authorities. Further, an enterprise carrying out its ocean fishery business without the approval of the Ministry of Agriculture may be subject to penalties imposed by applicable governmental authority pursuant to applicable laws and regulations. The most serious penalty is permanent suspension of its fishing business operation.
In addition, under PRC laws and regulations, Pingtan Fishing is required to hold certain certificates or licenses in order to use its vessels to conduct fishing outside PRC territorial seas. Some of the certificates or licenses are subject to renewal on a regular basis. We may not be able to renew such certificates or licenses. Failure to renew such certificates or licenses may cause temporary or even permanent suspension of Pingtan Fishing’s operations, which would have adverse effects on our business and financial condition. In addition, we may face fines pursuant to the above-mentioned laws and regulations.
Pingtan Fishing has neither entered into employment contracts with its employees nor bought the required social insurance for its employees and we may be imposed fines by the relevant authority.
Compared to previous labor laws, the Labor Contract Law provides stronger protection for employees and imposes more obligations on employers. The Labor Contract Law stipulates, among other things, that (i) that all written labor contracts shall contain certain requisite terms; (ii) that the length of trial employment periods must be in proportion to the terms of the relevant labor contracts, which in any event may not be longer than six months; (iii) that in certain circumstances, a labor contract is deemed to be without a fixed term and thus an employee can only be terminated with cause; and (iv) that there are certain restrictions on the circumstances under which employers may terminate labor contracts as well as the economic compensations to employees upon termination of the employee’s employment.
The PRC Social Insurance Law provides that the employers should apply for the social insurance registration to the social insurance authority for their employees within thirty days from the employment date. The employees should have the basic endowment insurance, basic medical insurance, work-related injury insurance, unemployment insurance and applicable maternity insurance for its employees. The premium of work-related injury insurance and maternity insurance should be paid by the employers and the premium of the other three kind of insurance should be paid by the employees and employers jointly. Employers who have not managed the application of social insurance registration in time may be ordered by the social insurance authority to make the rectification and may fined for the twice or triple of the unpaid premium for any delay in such rectification. Employers who have not paid the premium of applicable social insurance for their employees should be ordered to make the payment in time and be charged an overdue fine in the amount of 5/10,000 per day of the unpaid premium from the due date, and, if they have not paid in time as required by such order, may be fined for an amount of twice to triple the unpaid premium. Further, employers have the obligations to withhold the premium of endowment insurance, medical insurance and unemployment insurance and for their employees, and should be charged 5/10,000 per day of the overdue withholding premium by the social insurance authority.
Pingtan Fishing has not entered into employment agreements with some of its employees, basically the root-level employees, none of whom has endowment insurance, basic medical insurance, insurance against injury at work, maternity insurance and unemployment insurance. Due to this lack of insurance, we may be subject to overdue payment and fines and in turn our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected. We are actively endeavoring to enter into the employment contracts with these employees, purchase the social insurance for these employees and taking other remedial action. However, such actions may not be completed on a timely basis, or at all, and may not avoid fines or other penalties. As of December 31, 2013, there had been no fines nor penalties requested by the social insurance authority.Based on our estimate, the social insurance not provided is approximately $246,000, which is immaterial.
We may be subject to fines for the violation of Fishing Management Regulations.
PRC laws set forth rigorous standards to the amount and qualification of the seamen serving on vessels. The applicable laws include, among other things, the 1983 PRC Navigation Safety Act, Pingtan Fishing Management Regulations which was promulgated by Ministry of Agriculture on April 14, 2003, the PRC Seamen Regulations which was promulgated by State Council on March 28, 2007, Fishing Port Navigation Safety Management Regulations which was promulgated by State Council on May 5, 1989, and PRC Administrative Penalty Regulations for the Supervising of the Water Safety which was promulgated by Ministry of Communications on November 26, 1997. All these laws and regulations, collectively referred to as the Fishing Management Regulations, provide that the vessels should be equipped with qualified seamen, in a number required by the standard criteria to ensure the safety of such vessels and the seamen in Pingtan Fishing’s vessels should be trained by the professional training institution permitted by Ministry of Agriculture and hold a Professional Sailor Certificate and the Professional Training Qualification. Further, the owners of the Pingtan Fishing’s enterprises must apply for a Seafarer’s Passport for the seamen on their vessels and the seamen in the voyage or assisting with marine engine work must have a Certificate of Competence. The owner of the vessel may be ordered to rectify the failure to equip vessels with qualified seamen and are subject to a fine between RMB5000 to RMB10,000 for such violation or for the seamen on such vessels lacking valid Certificates of Competence.
Pingtan Fishing has not historically had procedures in place to ensure its vessels are equipped with sufficient qualified crews, who have the Seafarer’s Passport and Certificate of Job Qualification or other certificates required by applicable Fishing Management Regulations, to ensure the safety of such vessels. Accordingly, we may be subject to fines for such violations.
Pingtan Fishing has not made past housing fund payments for and on behalf of its employees and we may be required to make such payments and be subject to fines or penalties.
Under the Administrative Regulation on Housing Fund, an employer must make a housing fund payment, deposit registration upon its establishment and pay the housing fund for and on behalf of its employees at a percentage between 5% and 12% of the respective employee’s monthly average wage of the preceding year. If an employer fails to make the housing fund payment and deposit registration, the housing fund administration authority may order it to complete the registration within a time limit or be assessed a fine of RMB10,000 to RMB50,000. Where an employer fails to make the housing fund payment for and on behalf of its employees within the time limit or under the requisite percentage, it may be ordered by the housing fund administration authority to deposit the fund, together with late fees of 0.03% of such amount. Due to inconsistent implementation and interpretation by local authorities in the PRC and different levels of acceptance of the social security system by employees, Pingtan Fishing has not made the housing fund payment and deposit registration or paid the housing fund for and on behalf of its employeesbefore January 2014. In the future, we may be required to make housing fund paymentsfor the time before January 2014, the amount of which is approximately $27,000, pay late fees and pay fines for non-compliance.
PRC regulation of loans to and direct investments in PRC entities by offshore holding companies may delay or prevent us from financing Pingtan Guansheng.
Any funds we transfer to Pingtan Guansheng, either as a shareholder loan or as an increase in registered capital, are subject to approval by or registration with relevant governmental authorities in China. According to the relevant PRC regulations on foreign invested enterprises in China, capital contributions to Pingtan Guansheng are subject to the approval of the MOFCOM or its local branches and registration with other governmental authorities in China. In addition, (a) any foreign loan procured by Pingtan Guansheng is required to be registered with SAFE or its local branches, and (b) Pingtan Guansheng may not procure loans which exceed the difference between its registered capital and its total investment amount as approved by the MOFCOM or its local branches. Any medium or long term loan to be provided by us to Pingtan Guansheng must be approved by the National Development and Reform Commission and the SAFE or its local branches. We may be unable to obtain these government approvals or complete such registration on a timely basis, if at all, with respect to capital contributions or foreign loans by it to its PRC subsidiaries. If we fail to receive such approvals or complete such registration, the ability to fund our PRC operations may be negatively affected, which could adversely affect our liquidity and ability to fund and expand our business.
On August 29, 2008, SAFE promulgated the Circular on Relevant Operating Issues Concerning the Improvement of the Administration of the Payment and Settlement of Foreign Currency Capital of Foreign Invested Enterprises, or SAFE Circular 142. SAFE Circular 142 provides that any Renminbi capital converted from registered capital in foreign currency of a foreign invested enterprise may only be used for purposes within the business scope approved by PRC governmental authority and such Renminbi capital may not be used for equity investments within the PRC unless otherwise permitted by the PRC law. In addition, SAFE strengthened its oversight of the flow and use of the Renminbi capital converted from registered capital in foreign currency of a foreign invested enterprise. The use of such Renminbi capital may not be changed without SAFE approval, and such Renminbi capital may not in any case be used to repay Renminbi loans if the proceeds of such loans have not been utilized. Any violation of SAFE Circular 142 could result in severe monetary or other penalties. As a result, after the consummation of the business combination, we will be required to apply Renminbi funds converted within the business scope of Pingtan Guansheng. SAFE Circular 142 significantly limits our ability to transfer the net proceeds from us prior or any future offering of additional equity securities to Pingtan Guansheng or invest in or acquire any other companies in the PRC. On November 19, 2010 SAFE promulgated the Circular on the Policy of further Improvement and Adjustment of the Administration of the Direct Investment by Foreign Currency, or SAFE Circular 59, requiring SAFE to closely examine the authenticity of settlement of net proceeds from offshore offerings. In particular, it is specifically required that any net proceed settled from offshore offerings shall be applied in the manner described in the offering documents. On November 9, 2011, SAFE promulgated the Notice on Relevant Issues Concerning further Defining and Managing Part of the Foreign Currency Business in Capital Projects, or SAFE Circular 45. SAFE Circular 45 further provides that a foreign-investment enterprise should not use the Renminbi capital converted from registered capital in foreign currency in the equity investment. Due to the fact that the business scope of Pingtan Guansheng does not include equity investment, according to the aforementioned regulations, Pingtan Guansheng may not use Renminbi converted from foreign currency-denominated capital for purposes equity investment, and it must use such capital within its business scope, such as the sales of aquatic products or import and export of various commodities and technologies. Therefore, SAFE Circulars 142, 59 and 45 may significantly limit our units, ordinaryability to convert, transfer and use the net proceeds from our prior or any future offering of equity securities in China, which may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Relating to Our Securities
Our corporate actions are substantially controlled by our officers, directors and principal shareholders and their affiliated entities.
Our executive officers, directors and principal shareholders and their affiliated entities beneficially own approximately 56.2% of our issued and outstanding shares. These shareholders, if they acted together, would control matters requiring approval by our shareholders, including the election of directors and the approval of mergers or other business combination transactions, and they may not act in the best interests of minority shareholders. This concentration of ownership may also discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of us, which could deprive our shareholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for their shares as part of a sale of our company. These actions may be taken even if they are opposed by our other shareholders.
We may need additional capital, and the sale of additional equity securities could result in additional dilution to our shareholders.
We believe that our cash and cash equivalents, and anticipated cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs for the foreseeable future. We may, however, require additional cash resources due to changed business conditions or other future developments, including any investments or acquisitions we may decide to pursue. If these resources are insufficient to satisfy our cash requirements, we may seek to sell additional equity or debt securities or obtain a credit facility. The sale of additional equity securities could result in additional dilution to our shareholders. The incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased debt service obligations and could result in operating and financing covenants that would restrict our operations. It is uncertain whether financing will be available in amounts or on terms acceptable to us, if at all.
Our auditor, like other independent registered public accounting firms operating in China, is registered with the U.S. Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, or the PCAOB, but has not yet been inspected, and as such, investors currently do not have the benefit of PCAOB oversight.
Auditors of companies that are registered with the SEC and traded publicly in the United States, including our independent registered public accounting firm, must be registered with the PCAOB and are required by U.S. law to undergo regular inspections by the PCAOB to assess their compliance with U.S. law and professional standards in connection with their audits of public company financial statements filed with the SEC. Because our auditor is located in China, a jurisdiction where the PCAOB is currently unable to conduct inspections without the approval of the Chinese authorities, the audit work and practices of its auditor, like other registered audit firms operating in China, is currently not inspected by the PCAOB. The inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of auditors in China also makes it more difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of our auditor’s audit procedures or quality control procedures as compared to auditors outside of China that are subject to PCAOB inspections. As a result, investors may lose confidence in our reported financial information and procedures and the quality of our financial statements.
You must rely on price appreciation of our shares and warrants were listednot on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols CGEIU, CGEI and CGEIW, respectively.The following table sets forth the quarterly high and low closing prices of our units, ordinary shares and warrantsdividends for return on the Nasdaq Capital Market for the periods indicated:
| | Ordinary Shares | | | Warrants | | | Units | |
| | Low | | | High | | | Low | | | High | | | Low | | | High | |
Fiscal year ended December 31, 2011 |
Second Quarter | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 9.99 | | | | 10.20 | |
Third Quarter | | | 9.49 | | | | 9.50 | | | | 0.39 | | | | 0.53 | | | | 9.95 | | | | 11.00 | |
Fourth Quarter | | | 9.44 | | | | 9.56 | | | | 0.44 | | | | 0.50 | | | | 9.86 | | | | 10.20 | |
As of March 27, 2012, there were 4 holders of record of our ordinary shares, 4 holders of record of our warrants, and 1 holder of record of our units. Such numbers do not include beneficial owners holding shares, units or warrants through nominee names.
Dividends
your investment.
We have notnever declared or paid any cash dividends on our ordinary shares or preferred shares. We do not, anticipate paying any cash dividends on ordinary shares and plan to retain earnings, if any, for use in the development of the Company or our business. Therefore, you should not expect to receive any future dividend income. Our board of directors has significant discretion as to whether to distribute dividends. Even if dividends are paid, the timing, amount and form of future dividends, if any, will depend on, among other things, future results of operations and cash flow, capital requirements and surplus, the amount of distributions, if any, received from PRC subsidiaries, financial position, contractual restrictions, Cayman and PRC laws, and other factors deemed relevant. Accordingly, the return on your investment will likely depend entirely upon any future price appreciation of our shares. Our shares may not appreciate in value or even maintain the price at which you invested.
Shareholders may face difficulties in protecting their interests, and their ability to protect their rights through the United States federal courts may be limited because we re incorporated under Cayman Islands law, we conduct substantially all of our operations in China and all of our directors and officers reside outside the United States.
We are incorporated in the Cayman Islands and conduct substantially all of our operations in China through our PRC subsidiaries. All of our directors and officers reside outside the United States and a substantial portion of their assets are located outside of the United States. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for our shareholders to bring an action against us or these individuals in the Cayman Islands or in China in the event that you believe that your rights have been infringed under the securities laws or otherwise. Even if shareholders are successful in bringing an action of this kind, the laws of the Cayman Islands and of China may render you unable to enforce a judgment against our assets or the assets of our directors and officers.
If we fail to comply with the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, our business prospects and stock valuation could be adversely affected.
Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires our management to report on, and our independent registered public accounting firm to attest to, the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. We have expended significant resources to comply with our obligations under Section 404 with respect to the year ended December 31, 2013. If we are unable to comply with our obligations under Section 404 in the future or experience delays in future reports of our management and outside auditors on our internal control over financial reporting, or if we fail to respond timely to any changes in the Section 404 requirements, we may be unable to timely file with the SEC our periodic reports and may be subject to, among other things, regulatory or enforcement actions by the SEC and the NASDAQ, including delisting from the NASDAQ, securities litigation, events of default under our new credit facilities, debt rating agency downgrades or rating withdrawals and a general loss of investor confidence, any one of which could adversely affect our business prospects and the valuation of our common stock.
Compliance with rules and requirements applicable to public companies will cause us to incur additional costs, and any failure by us to comply with such rules and requirements could negatively affect investor confidence in us and cause the value of our securities to decline.
As a relatively new public company, we are incurring significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company, many of which are not reflected in our historical financial statements. In addition, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as rules adopted by the SEC, has required changes in the corporate governance practices of public companies. We expect these rules and regulations to increase our legal, accounting and financial compliance costs and to make certain corporate activities more time-consuming and costly. Complying with these rules and requirements may be especially difficult and costly for us because it may have difficulty locating sufficient personnel in China with experience and expertise relating to U.S. GAAP and United States public company reporting requirements, and such personnel may command high salaries. If we cannot employ sufficient personnel to ensure compliance with these rules and regulations, we may need to rely more on outside legal, accounting and financial experts, which may be very costly.
The prices at which shares of our ordinary shares are traded will likely be volatile.
You should expect the prices at which our ordinary shares are traded to be highly volatile. Our progress in developing and commercializing our products, the impact of government regulations on our products and industry, the potential sale of a large volume of our ordinary shares by shareholders, our quarterly operating results, changes in general conditions in the economy or the financial markets and other developments affecting us or our competitors could cause the market price of our ordinary shares to fluctuate substantially with significant market losses. As a result, this may make it difficult or impossible for holders of our ordinary shares to sell shares when they want and at prices they find attractive.
The market price of the warrants is directly affected by the market price of our ordinary shares, which may be volatile.
We believe that the market price of the Warrants is significantly affected by the market price of our ordinary shares. We cannot predict how our ordinary shares will trade in the future. This may result in greater volatility in the market price of the warrants than would be expected for non-exercisable securities.
Under certain circumstances, holders may have to pay U.S. federal income tax as a result of a deemed distribution with respect to our ordinary shares or warrants—even if holders do not receive a corresponding distribution of cash—such as, if we adjust, or fail to adjust, the exercise price of the warrants in certain circumstances.
Holders of our ordinary shares or warrants may be treated as having received a constructive distribution in certain circumstances, for example if we make certain adjustments to (or fail to make adjustments to) the exercise price of the warrants and such adjustment (or failure to make an adjustment) has the effect of increasing the proportionate interest of certain holders in our earnings and profits or assets. Such a distribution could be treated as a taxable dividend or capital gain for U.S. federal income tax purposes even though holders do not receive any cash with respect to such constructive distribution. In addition, you may be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax on any such constructive distribution on our ordinary shares or warrants. You are advised to consult your independent tax advisor regarding the possibility and tax treatment of any deemed distributions for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Until the exercise of the warrants, holders of these securities do not have identical rights as holders of our ordinary shares, but they will be subject to all changes made with respect to our ordinary shares.
Holders of the warrants are not entitled to any rights with respect to our ordinary shares (including, without limitation, voting rights and rights to receive any dividends or other distributions on our ordinary shares), but they will be subject to all changes affecting our ordinary shares. Holders of warrants will have rights with respect to our ordinary shares only if they receive our ordinary shares upon exercise of the warrants and only as of the date when such holder becomes a record owner of our ordinary shares upon such exercise. For example, with respect to warrants, if an amendment is proposed to our memorandum and articles of incorporation requiring shareholder approval and the record date for determining the shareholders of record entitled to vote on the amendment occurs prior to the date a warrant holder is deemed to be the owner of our ordinary shares due upon exercise of the warrants, the exercising warrant holder will not be entitled to vote on the amendment, although such holder will nevertheless be subject to any changes in the powers, preferences or special rights of our ordinary shares.
The market price of our ordinary shares may or may not exceed the exercise price of the warrants.
As of the date of this prospectus, the market price of our ordinary shares did not exceed the exercise price of our warrants, and we cannot provide you with any assurance that that the market price of our ordinary shares will ever exceed the exercise price of the warrants in any or all periods prior to the date of expiration. Any warrants not exercised by their date of expiration will expire worthless and we will be under no further obligation to the warrant holders.
Since the warrants are executory contracts, they may have no value in a bankruptcy or reorganization proceeding.
In the event a bankruptcy or reorganization proceeding is commenced by or against us, a bankruptcy court may hold that any unexercised warrants are executory contracts that are subject to rejection by us with the approval of the bankruptcy court. As a result, holders of the warrants may, even if we have sufficient funds, not be entitled to receive any consideration for their warrants or may receive an amount less than they would be entitled to if they had exercised their warrants prior to the commencement of any such bankruptcy or reorganization proceeding.
We may sell equity securities in the future, which would cause dilution.
We may sell equity securities in the future to obtain funds for general corporate or other purposes. We may sell these securities at a discount to the market price. Any future sales of equity securities will dilute the holdings of existing holders of our ordinary shares, possibly reducing the value of their investment.
The exercise of warrants to purchase our ordinary shares will increase the number of shares eligible for future resale in the public market and result in dilution to our existing shareholders.
There are outstanding warrants to purchase an aggregate of 8,966,667 of our ordinary shares. To the extent such warrants are exercised, additional shares of our ordinary shares will be issued, which will result in dilution to the existing holders of our ordinary shares and increase the number of shares eligible for resale in the public market. Sales of substantial numbers of such shares in the public market could adversely affect the market price of our ordinary shares.
Although our ordinary shares are currently listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market, there can be no assurance that we will be able to comply with the continued listing standards.
The NASDAQ Capital Market may delist our ordinary shares from trading on its exchange for failure to meet the continued listing standards. If our ordinary shares were delisted from The NASDAQ Capital Market, we and our shareholders could face significant material adverse consequences including:
| ¨ | a limited availability of market quotations for our ordinary shares; |
| ¨ | a determination that our ordinary shares is a “penny stock” would require brokers trading in our ordinary shares to adhere to more stringent rules, possibly resulting in a reduced level of trading activity in the secondary trading market for our ordinary shares; |
| ¨ | a limited amount of analyst coverage; and |
| ¨ | a decreased ability to issue additional securities or obtain additional financing in the future. |
Our ordinary shares are currently listed for trading on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “PME”.
The warrants may be thinly traded, so you may be unable to sell at or near ask prices or even at all if you need to sell your warrants to raise money or otherwise desire to liquidate your warrants.
The warrants are quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board and may be “thinly-traded,” meaning that the number of persons interested in purchasing the warrants at or near bid prices at any given time may be relatively small or non-existent. This situation could be attributable to a number of factors, including the fact that we are a relatively new company that may be unknown to stock analysts, stock brokers, institutional investors and others in the investment community that generate or influence sales volume, and that even if we came to the attention of such persons, they tend to be risk averse and would be reluctant to follow an unproven company such as ours or purchase or recommend the purchase of our shares until such time as we became more seasoned and viable. As a consequence, there may be periods of several days, weeks or months when trading activity in the warrants is minimal or non-existent, as compared to a seasoned issuer which has a large and steady volume of trading activity that will generally support continuous sales without an adverse effect on the price of the warrants. We cannot give you any assurance that a broader or more active public trading market for the warrants will develop or be sustained, or that current trading levels will be sustained or not diminish.
Our management will have broad discretion over the use of the proceeds that we receive from the exercise of the warrants and might not apply the proceeds in ways that increase the value our ordinary shares.
We will receive the proceeds from the exercise of our warrants, but not from the sale of the underlying ordinary shares. We also will not receive the proceeds from any resales by the selling securityholders of any ordinary shares or warrants. Our management will have broad discretion to use the proceeds that we receive from the exercise of the warrants, and you will be relying on the judgment of our management regarding the application of these proceeds. Our management might not apply these proceeds in ways that increase the value our ordinary shares. We intend to use these proceeds primarily for general corporate purposes, including working capital, sales and marketing activities, general and administrative matters, repayment of indebtedness, and capital expenditures. We may also use a portion of these proceeds to acquire or invest in complementary products or businesses. Pending the foregoing uses, we intend to invest the proceeds that we receive from the exercise of our warrants in short-term, investment-grade, interest-bearing securities, and these investments may not yield a favorable rate of return. If we do not invest or apply the proceeds that we receive from the exercise of our warrants in ways that enhance shareholder value, we may fail to achieve expected financial results, which could cause the price of our ordinary shares to decline. You will not have the opportunity to influence our decisions on how we use the proceeds that we receive from the exercise of the warrants.
If securities or industry analysts do not publish or cease publishing research or reports about us, our business, or our market, or if they change their recommendations regarding our ordinary shares adversely, the price and trading volume of our securities could decline.
Securities and industry analysts do not currently, and may never, publish research on us. If securities or industry analysts do not publish or cease publishing research or reports about us, our business, or our market, or if they change their recommendations regarding our ordinary shares adversely, the price and trading volume of our securities could decline. The trading markets for our securities will be influenced by the research and reports that industry or securities analysts may publish about us, our business, our market, or our competitors. If no securities or industry analysts commence coverage of us, the market price and trading volume of our securities would likely be negatively impacted. If any of the analysts who may cover us change their recommendation regarding our securities adversely, or provide more favorable relative recommendations about our competitors, the price of our securities would likely decline. If any analyst who may cover us were to cease coverage of us or fail to regularly publish reports on us, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which in turn could cause the market price or trading volume of our securities to decline.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Our principal executive offices are located at 18/F, Zhongshan Building A, No. 154 Hudong Road, Fuzhou, PRC. On July 31, 2012, we entered into an office lease agreement with Ping Lin, the wife of Xinrong Zhuo, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, for approximately 100 square meters of space. Annual lease payments were approximately $13,700 in 2013.
On July 1, 2013, we entered into a service agreement with Hai Yi Shipping Limited, an affiliate company domiciled in Hong Kong, that provided the Company the use of premises of approximately 194 square meters located at Suites 5201-6, 52/F, The Center, 99 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong as office, and clerical and administrative support and consultation services. We paid approximately $231,000 in 2013.
We have secured eight cold storages located in one of China’s largest seafood trading center, MaWei seafood market. Five of which are subleased from Hong Long, our related party. The monthly rent for the cold storage is RMB80 ($13) per square meter and the leases are renewable annually. The following table sets forth information regarding the cold storages we currently rent as of December 31, 2013:
| | Storage Capacity | | | |
Cold Storage | | (sq. meters) | | Monthly rent | |
#301 | | 1,045 | | 13,613 | |
#302 | | 717 | | 9,340 | |
#602 | | 717 | | 9,340 | |
#103 | | 776 | | 10,109 | |
#303 | | 1,045 | | 13,613 | |
#401 | | 1,045 | | 13,613 | |
#402 | | 717 | | 9,340 | |
#403 | | 1,045 | | 13,613 | |
Total | | 7,107 | | 92,581 | |
We believe that our current offices and facilities are adequate to meet our needs, and that additional facilities will be available for lease, if necessary, to meet our future needs.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
| From time to time, we may be subject to legal proceedings and claims in the ordinary course of business. We are not currently a party to any litigation the outcome of which, if determined adversely to us, would individually or in the aggregate be reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, cash flows or financial condition. |
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Market Information
Our ordinary shares are listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “PME” and our warrants are quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board under the symbol “PMEWW.”
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the range of quarterly high and low sales prices for ordinary shares and warrants as reported by the NASDAQ Capital Market and the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board, respectively.
| | Ordinary Shares | | | Warrants | |
| | High | | Low | | High | | Low | |
2013 | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
First Quarter | | $ | 12.49 | | $ | 9.00 | | $ | 0.49 | | $ | 0.23 | |
Second Quarter | | $ | 10.12 | | $ | 3.49 | | $ | 0.35 | | $ | 0.25 | |
Third Quarter | | $ | 3.89 | | $ | 1.44 | | $ | 0.25 | | $ | 0.05 | |
Fourth Quarter | | $ | 3.97 | | $ | 1.81 | | $ | 0.15 | | $ | 0.10 | |
2012 | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
First Quarter | | $ | 9.82 | | $ | 9.54 | | $ | 0.55 | | $ | 0.49 | |
Second Quarter | | $ | 9.80 | | $ | 9.60 | | $ | 0.55 | | $ | 0.51 | |
Third Quarter | | $ | 10.36 | | $ | 9.36 | | $ | 0.51 | | $ | 0.24 | |
Fourth Quarter | | $ | 10.36 | | $ | 9.82 | | $ | 0.25 | | $ | 0.20 | |
Holders of Record
On March 7, 2014, the closing sale price of our shares of ordinary shares was $3.11 per share and there were 79,055,053 ordinary shares and warrants to purchase 8,966,667 ordinary shares outstanding. On that date, our ordinary shares and warrants were held by approximately 198 and 4 holders of record, respectively. The number of record holders was determined from the records of our transfer agent and does not include beneficial owners of our ordinary shares or warrants whose shares are held in the names of various security brokers, dealers, and registered clearing agencies.
Dividend Policy
We currently intend to retain all available funds and any future earnings for use in the operation and expansion of our business and do not intend to payanticipate paying any cash dividends prior toon our ordinary shares for the completion of a business transaction. The payment offoreseeable future. Investors seeking cash dividends in the immediate future should not purchase our ordinary shares. Future cash dividends, if any, will be dependent upon our revenues and earnings, if any, capital requirements and general financial condition subsequent to completion of a business transaction. The payment of any dividends subsequent to a business transaction will be withinat the discretion of our board of directors at such time. It is the present intention ofand will depend upon our future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors as our board of directors may deem relevant. We can pay dividends only out of our profits or other distributable reserves and dividends or distribution will only be paid or made if we are able to retain all earnings,pay our debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of business. Payment of future dividends, if any, for use in our business operations and, accordingly, ourwill be at the discretion of the board of directors does not anticipate declaring any dividendsafter taking into account various factors, including current financial condition, operating results, current and anticipated cash needs and regulations governing dividend distributions by wholly foreign owned enterprises in the foreseeable future. In addition, our board of directors is not currently contemplating and does not anticipate declaring any stock dividends in the foreseeable future. Further, if we incur any indebtedness, our ability to declare dividends may be limited by restrictive covenants we may agree to in connection therewith.China.
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation PlanNone
Performance Graph
WePlans
As of the date of this annual report, we have no equity compensations plans for any of ouremployees, directors and consultants.
Purchases of Equity Securities
During the year ended December 31, 2013, we did not provided a line graph comparing yearly percentage change inpurchase any of our shareholder returnequity securities, nor did any person or entity purchase any of our equity securities on common stock against various indices or peer group because we are a smaller reporting company.our behalf.
Recent Sales of Unregistered SecuritiesNo sales and Use of unregistered securities have been made duringProceeds
None.
Stock Performance Graph
This performance graph shall not be deemed "soliciting material" or to be "filed" with the applicable period.SEC for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act), or otherwise subject to the liabilities under that Section, and shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing of Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act.
The following graph shows a comparison from February 25, 2013 (the date our ordinary shares commenced trading on the NASDAQ capital Market under its current ticker “PME” after our initial business combination) through December 31, 2013 of the cumulative total return for our common stock, the Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ Composite) and to our peer group index SIC Code 900—Fishing, Hunting and Trapping. These comparisons assume the investment of $100 on February 25, 2013 and the reinvestment of dividends. The stock price performance of the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.
Item
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATAWe
The following table sets forth selected consolidated statement of financial data as of and for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, which are
a smaller reporting company as definedderived from our audited consolidated financial statements. Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in
Regulation S-K, and therefore, pursuant to Item 301 of Regulation S-K, weaccordance with U.S. GAAP. Our historical results for any period are not
requirednecessarily indicative of results to
make disclosuresbe expected for any future period. You should read the following selected financial information in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes and the information under
this Item.Item 7. Management’s“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsOperations” included elsewhere in this annual report.
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | | 2013 | | | | | | | 2012 | | | | | | | 2011 | | | | |
| | | US$ | | | % of Revenue | | | | US$ | | | % of Revenue | | | | US$ | | | % of Revenue | |
| | ( in thousands, except for percentages, per share and operating data) | |
Consolidated Statement of Income Data: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Revenue | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Ribbon fish | | $ | 47,169 | | | 38.5 | % | | $ | 29,163 | | | 43.2 | % | | $ | 12,800 | | | 50.0 | % |
Indian white shrimp | | | 20,859 | | | 17.0 | % | | | 9,659 | | | 14.3 | % | | | 9 | | | - | |
Croaker fish | | | 15,242 | | | 12.4 | % | | | 8,306 | | | 12.3 | % | | | 3,014 | | | 11.8 | % |
Pomfret | | | 10,022 | | | 8.2 | % | | | 2,283 | | | 3.4 | % | | | 417 | | | 1.6 | % |
Red fish | | | 3,575 | | | 2.9 | % | | | 726 | | | 1.1 | % | | | - | | | - | |
Threadfin | | | 3,379 | | | 2.8 | % | | | 596 | | | 0.9 | % | | | - | | | - | |
Others | | | 22,422 | | | 18.2 | % | | | 16,728 | | | 24.8 | % | | | 7,976 | | | 31.2 | % |
Rental | | | - | | | - | | | | - | | | - | | | | 1,385 | | | 5.4 | % |
Total Revenue | | | 122,668 | | | 100.0 | % | | | 67,461 | | | 100.0 | % | | | 25,601 | | | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of Revenue | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fuel cost | | | 46,562 | | | 38.0 | % | | | 28,113 | | | 41.7 | % | | | 8,564 | | | 33.4 | % |
Freight | | | 9,055 | | | 7.4 | % | | | 4,893 | | | 7.2 | % | | | 2,017 | | | 7.9 | % |
Labor cost | | | 6,475 | | | 5.3 | % | | | 3,072 | | | 4.6 | % | | | 1,008 | | | 3.9 | % |
Maintenance fee | | | 3,761 | | | 3.0 | % | | | 2,675 | | | 4.0 | % | | | 1,604 | | | 6.3 | % |
Spare parts | | | 3,759 | | | 3.0 | % | | | 1,189 | | | 1.8 | % | | | 770 | | | 3.0 | % |
Depreciation and amortization | | | 3,649 | | | 3.0 | % | | | 441 | | | 0.6 | % | | | 438 | | | 0.5 | % |
License fee | | | 1,565 | | | 1.3 | % | | | 1,059 | | | 1.6 | % | | | 122 | | | 0.3 | % |
Service fee | | | 934 | | | 0.8 | % | | | 434 | | | 0.6 | % | | | 78 | | | 1.7 | % |
Total cost of Revenue | | | 75,760 | | | 61.8 | % | | | 41,876 | | | 62.1 | % | | | 14,601 | | | 57.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gross profit | | | 46,908 | | | 38.2 | % | | | 25,585 | | | 37.9 | % | | | 11,000 | | | 43.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Selling expenses | | | (1,618) | | | (1.3) | % | | | (648) | | | (1.0) | % | | | (384) | | | (1.5) | % |
Admin expenses | | | (3,192) | | | (2.6) | % | | | (2,840) | | | (4.2) | % | | | (251) | | | (1.0) | % |
Operating income from continuing operations | | | 42,098 | | | 34.3 | % | | | 22,097 | | | 32.7 | % | | | 10,365 | | | 40.5 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Income from continuing operations before income taxes | | | 45,489 | | | 37.1 | % | | | 21,298 | | | 31.6 | % | | | 10,440 | | | 40.8 | % |
Income tax | | | - | | | - | | | | - | | | - | | | | - | | | - | |
Net income from continuing operations | | | 45,489 | | | 37.1 | % | | | 21,298 | | | 31.6 | % | | | 10,440 | | | 40.8 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income from discontinued operations, net of taxes | | | 51,910 | | | | | | | 84,494 | | | | | | | 90,258 | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated net income | | $ | 97,399 | | | | | | $ | 105,792 | | | | | | $ | 100,698 | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic and diluted earnings per share | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
—From continuing operations | | $ | 0.58 | | | | | | $ | 0.27 | | | | | | $ | 0.13 | | | | |
—From discontinued operations | | | 0.65 | | | | | | | 1.07 | | | | | | | 1.14 | | | | |
—Net income | | $ | 1.23 | | | | | | $ | 1.34 | | | | | | $ | 1.27 | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other Consolidated Financial Data: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gross profit margin | | | 38.2 | % | | | | | | 37.9 | % | | | | | | 43.0 | % | | | |
Operating profit margin | | | 34.3 | % | | | | | | 32.7 | % | | | | | | 40.5 | % | | | |
Net profit margin | | | 37.1 | % | | | | | | 31.6 | % | | | | | | 40.8 | % | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated Operating Data: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Sales volume (kg) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Ribbon fish | | | 19,249,641 | | | | | | | 15,229,701 | | | | | | | 9,522,550 | | | | |
Indian white shrimp | | | 3,041,471 | | | | | | | 1,275,801 | | | | | | | 1,400 | | | | |
Croaker fish | | | 6,817,575 | | | | | | | 4,740,661 | | | | | | | 1,958,600 | | | | |
Pomfret | | | 4,249,796 | | | | | | | 1,318,409 | | | | | | | 286,000 | | | | |
Red fish | | | 795,835 | | | | | | | 221,250 | | | | | | | - | | | | |
Threadfin | | | 1,025,272 | | | | | | | 205,560 | | | | | | | - | | | | |
Others | | | 7,991,721 | | | | | | | 6,223,249 | | | | | | | 3,330,871 | | | | |
Average selling price ($ per kg) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Ribbon fish | | | 2.45 | | | | | | | 1.91 | | | | | | | 1.34 | | | | |
Indian white shrimp | | | 6.86 | | | | | | | 7.57 | | | | | | | 6.43 | | | | |
Croaker fish | | | 2.24 | | | | | | | 1.75 | | | | | | | 1.54 | | | | |
Pomfret | | | 2.36 | | | | | | | 1.73 | | | | | | | 1.46 | | | | |
Red fish | | | 4.49 | | | | | | | 3.28 | | | | | | | - | | | | |
Threadfin | | | 3.30 | | | | | | | 2.90 | | | | | | | - | | | | |
Others | | | 2.81 | | | | | | | 2.69 | | | | | | | 2.39 | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated Balance Sheet Data: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | $ | 8,157 | | | | | | $ | 10,426 | | | | | | $ | 1,795 | | | | |
Accounts receivable | | | 9,133 | | | | | | | 11,478 | | | | | | | 5,455 | | | | |
Inventories | | | 9,096 | | | | | | | 194 | | | | | | | 2,572 | | | | |
Property, plant and equipment | | | 107,178 | | | | | | | 37,142 | | | | | | | 6,368 | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 357,949 | | | | | | $ | 484,010 | | | | | | $ | 358,683 | | | | |
Secured short-term bank loans and current portion of long-term bank loans | | $ | 29,337 | | | | | | $ | 33,264 | | | | | | $ | 21,691 | | | | |
Total liabilities and commitments | | | 105,711 | | | | | | | 83,711 | | | | | | | 124,309 | | | | |
Total shareholders’ equity | | | 252,237 | | | | | | | 400,299 | | | | | | | 234,374 | | | | |
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity | | $ | 357,949 | | | | | | $ | 484,010 | | | | | | $ | 358,683 | | | | |
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION
References to the “Company,” “us” or “we” refer to
China Growth Equity InvestmentPingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. The following discussion and analysis of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the
condensed financial statements and the notes thereto contained elsewhere in this report.
General
Certain information contained in the discussion and analysis set forth below includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.
Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this Form 10-K including, without limitation, statements under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” regarding the Company’s financial position, business strategy and the plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this Form 10-K, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to us or the Company’s management, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, the Company’s management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors detailed in our filings with the SEC. All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on the Company’s behalf are qualified in their entirety by this paragraph.
Overview
We are a newly organized blank check company formed on January 18, 2010 formarine enterprises group primarily engaging in ocean fishing through our wholly-owned PRC operating subsidiary or VIE, Fujian Provincial Pingtan County Ocean Fishing Group Co., Ltd., or Pingtan Fishing. We harvest a variety of fish species with many of our-owned or licensed vessels operating within the purposeIndian Exclusive Economic Zone and the Arafura Sea of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses.Indonesia. We are not limitedprovide high quality seafood to a particular industry or minimumdiverse group of customers including distributors, restaurant owners and exporters in the PRC.
In June 2013, we expanded our fleet from 40 to 86 through a purchase of 46 fishing trawlers from a related party for a total consideration of $410.1 million. The transaction
value for purposesis subject to the receipt of
consummating a Business Combination. In addition,government approvals; however we
will not effect a business combination with another blank check company or a similar company with nominal operations.Resultsbegan operating the vessels in the third quarter of Operations
Through December 31, 2011, our efforts2013 and since then we have been limitedentitled to organizational activities, activities relatingtheir net profits from there operation. These vessels are fully licensed to fish in Indonesian waters. Each vessel carries crew of 10 to 15 persons. These vessels have resulted in additional carrying capacity of approximately 45,000 to 50,000 tons for us.
In September 2013, we further increased our fleet to 106 vessels with the addition of 20 newly-built fishing trawlers, which were initially ordered in September 2012. These vessels have an expected run-in period of 3 - 6 months, during which each is placed into the sea for testing prior to full operation. These vessels are fully licensed to fish in Indian and Indonesian waters. At full operation, each vessel is capable of harvesting 900 to 1,000 tons of fish. We expect that the expansions of our fleet will greatly increase our fish harvest volume and revenue.
Subsequent to our Offering, activities relating to identifyingfleet expansions, in September 2013, the Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China (“MOA”) issued a notification that it would suspend accepting shipbuilding applications for tuna harvesting vessels, squid harvesting vessels, Pacific saury harvesting vessels, trawlers operating on international waters, seine on international waters, and evaluating prospective acquisition candidates and activities relating to general corporate matters. We have not generated any revenues, other than interest income earnedtrawlers operating on the proceeds heldArafura Sea, Indonesia. We believe the announcement is a positive indicator for long-term stability and balance in China’s fishing industry. We believe that this has helped to ensure our fishing productivity in international waters, while also serving as a major barrier to entry for competitors in our industry and strengthening our competitive position in the Trust Account. markets.
As of December 31, 2011, $50,255,577 was held2013, we owned 104 trawlers and 2 drifter vessels and have an operating license right to 20 drifter vessels. Our fleet has an average useful life of approximately 17 years. These vessels are fully licensed to fish in Indonesian or Indian waters. 114 of these vessels are operating in Arafura Sea in Indonesia, and the remaining 12 vessels are operating in the Trust Account (including $2,250,000Bay of deferred underwriting discountsBengal in India.
Currently we catch nearly 30 different species of fish including ribbon fish, Indian white shrimp, croaker fish, pomfret, Spanish mackerel, conger eel, squid and commissionsred snapper. All of our catch is shipped back to China. Our fishing vessels transport frozen catch to a cold storage warehouse at nearby onshore fishing bases. We then arrange periodic charted transportation ships to deliver frozen stocks to its eight cold storage warehouses located in one of China’s largest seafood trading centers, Mawei Seafood Market in Fujian Province.
We derive our revenue primarily from the sales of frozen seafood products.We sell our products directly to customers including distributors, restaurant owners and $2,975,000exporters, and most of our customers have long-term and trustworthy cooperative relationship with us.Our existing customers also introduce new customers to us from time to time. Our operating results are subject to seasonal variations. Harvest volume is the highest in the fourth quarter of the year and harvest volumes in the second and third quarters are relatively low due to the spawn season of certain fish species, including ribbon fish, cuttlefish, butterfish, and calamari. Based on past experiences, demand for seafood products is the highest from December to January during Chinese New Year. We believe that our profitability and growth are dependent on our ability to expand the customer base.With the expansions of operating capacity and expected increases in harvest volume in the coming years, we will continue to develop new customers from existing and new territories in China.
Revenue by Territory
Our customers are from the following PRC territories:
| | For the Years Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | |
Guangdong Province | | 46 | % | 55 | % | 45 | % |
Fujian Province | | 26 | % | 27 | % | 39 | % |
Zhejiang Province | | 17 | % | 11 | % | 9 | % |
Shandong Province | | 4 | % | 4 | % | 4 | % |
Liaoning Province | | 2 | % | 2 | % | 2 | % |
Other areas | | 5 | % | 1 | % | 1 | % |
Total | | 100 | % | 100 | % | 100 | % |
Discontinued operations
In December 2013, we have completed the sale of the Insider Warrants)China Dredging Group (“CDGC”) business, which has been reported as discontinued operations for 2013, to Hong Long, a related party owned by the wife of our Chairman and CEO, Mr. Xinrong Zhuo.
In July 2013, we received an offer from Mr. Zhuo to acquire the business and operating assets of our wholly-owned dredging subsidiary, CDGC and its PRC operating subsidiaries in exchange for (i) offset of our current $155.2 million 4% promissory note due to Hong Long matures on June 19, 2015; (ii) the assignment of the 25-year exclusive operating license rights for 20 new fishing vessels to us, with a fair market value of $216.1 million (iii) offset of PME’s current accounts due to CDGC with amount $172.5 million. The value of the operating license rights of $216.1 million will be amortized over the license term of 25 years. These 20 fishing vessels received subsidies from China’s central government budget in 2012, and a recent notification from the Government prohibits the sale or transfer of ownership for a period of 10 years for fishing vessels that have received such subsidies.
The Board, excluding Mr. Zhuo and our Senior Officer, Mr. Bin Lin, retained our independent financial advisor to provide a fairness opinion on the transaction proposed by Mr. Zhuo. Subsequent to the receipt of the fairness opinion from our independent financial advisor on October 28, 2013, the Board would evaluate potential alternative proposals received during a 30 day period. After receiving no alternative proposals, on December 3, 2013, the Board, excluding Mr. Zhuo and Mr. Lin approved moving forward with the transaction and executed and closed the Share Purchase Agreement. The total consideration of the transaction is approximately $543.8 million with a gain on sale of $134.7 million which was recorded as an adjustment to our equityas it was sold to a related party under common control.
Significant Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
| ¨ | Governmental Policies: Fishing is a highly regulated industry and our operations require licenses and permits. Our ability to obtain, sustain or renew such licenses and permits on acceptable terms is subject to changes in regulations and policies and is at the discretion of the applicable governments. Our inability to obtain, or loss or denial of extensions, to any of its applicable licenses or permits could hamper our ability to generate revenues from its operations. |
| ¨ | Resource & Environmental Factors: Our fishing expeditions are based in India and Indonesia. Any earthquake, tsunami, adverse weather or oceanic conditions or other calamities in such areas may result in disruption to our operations and could adversely affect our sales. Adverse weather conditions such as storms, cyclones and typhoons or cataclysmic events may also decrease the volume of fish catches or may even hamper our operations. Our fishing volumes may also be adversely affected by major climatic disruptions such as El Nino, which in the past has caused significant decreases in seafood catch worldwide. Besides weather patterns, other unpredictable factors, such as fish migration, may also have impact our harvest volume. |
| ¨ | Fluctuation on Fuel Prices: Our operations may be adversely affected by fluctuations in fuel prices. Changes in fuel prices may ultimately result in increases in the selling prices of our products, and may, in turn, adversely affect our sales volume, revenue and operating profit. |
| ¨ | Competition: We engage in fishing business in the Arafura Sea in Indonesia and the Bay of Bengal in India. Competition within our dedicated fishing areas is not significant as the region is not overfished and regulated by the government, which limits the number of vessels that are allowed to fish in the territories. Competition in the market in China is high, as fish compete with other sources of protein. We compete with other fishing companies which offer similar and varied products. There is significant demand for fish in the Chinese market. Our catch appeals to a wide segment of consumers because of the low price points of our products. We have been able to sell our catch at market prices and such market prices were quite stable during 2010 and 2011, but increased significantly during 2012 and 2013. |
| ¨ | Fishing Licenses: Each of our fishing vessels requires an approval from the Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China to carry out ocean fishing projects in foreign territories. These approvals are valid for a period of three to twelve months, and are awarded to us at no cost. We apply for the renewal of the approval prior to expiration to avoid interruptions of our fishing vessels’ operations. Each of our fishing vessels operating in Indonesian waters requires a fishing license granted by the authority in Indonesia. Indonesian fishing licenses remain effective for a period of twelve months and we apply for renewal upon expiration. We record cost of Indonesian fishing licenses in prepaid expenses and amortize the cost over the effective period of the licenses. |
PRINCIPAL INCOME STATEMENT COMPONENTS
Revenue
We recognize revenue from sales of frozen fish and other marine catches when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the price to the customer is fixed or determinable, and collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured.
With respect to the sales to third party customers the majority of whom are sole proprietor regional wholesalers in China, we recognize revenue when customers receive purchased goods at our cold storage warehouse, after payment is received or credit sale is approved for recurring customers with excellent payment histories.
We do not offer promotional payments, customer coupons, rebates or other cash redemption offers to customers. We do not accept returns from customers. Deposits or advance payments from customers prior to delivery of goods are recorded as receipt in advance.
Cost of Sales
Our cost of sales primarily consists of fuel costs, freight, direct labor costs, depreciation and amortization, maintenance fees and other overhead costs. Fuel costs generally accounted for the majority of our cost of sales.
Gross Profit
Our gross profit is affected primarily bychanges in production cost.Fuel, freight and labor costs together account for about 82% of cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2013. The fluctuation of fuel price, freight price and exchange rates may significantly affect the Company’s cost level and gross profit.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Our selling, general and administrative expenses include salaries and staff welfare, professional service fees, traveling expenses for our sales personnel, insurance and other miscellaneous expenses related to our administrative corporate activities.
Our sales activities are conducted through direct selling by our internal sales staff. Because of the strong demand for our products and services, we do not have to aggressively market and distribute our products, thus our selling expenses have been relatively small as a percentage of our revenue.
We anticipate that our selling, general and administrative expenses will increase with the anticipated growth of our business and continued upgrades to our information technology infrastructure. We expect that our selling, general and administrative expenses will also increase as a result of compliance, investor-relations and other expenses associated with being a publicly listed company.
Other Income and Expenses
Other income and expenses mainly include interest income from bank deposits, interest expenses of short term and long term borrowings, foreign exchange differences and subsidy income.
Income Tax
Under the current laws of the Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands, we are not subject to any income or capital gains tax, and dividend payments we make are not subject to any withholding tax in the Cayman Islands or British Virgin Islands. Under the current laws of Hong Kong, we are not subject to any income or capital gains tax and dividend payments and are not subject to any withholding tax in Hong Kong.
The Company's VIE, Pingtan Fishing, is a qualified ocean fishing enterprise certified by the Ministry of Agriculture of the PRC. The qualification is renewed on April 1 each year. Pingtan Fishing is exempt from income tax derived from its ocean fishing operations in the periods it processes a valid Ocean Fishing Enterprise Qualification Certificate issued by the Ministry of Agriculture of the PRC.
In addition, Pingtan Fishing is not subject to foreign income taxes for its operations in India and Indonesia Exclusive Economic Zones.
Other Comprehensive Income
Our comprehensive income consists of net income and foreign currency translation adjustments. We translate our assets and liabilities of foreign operations at the rate of exchange in effect on the balance sheet date. We translate income and expenses at the average rate of exchange prevailing during the period. The year-end rate as of December 31, 2013 for RMB into one U.S. dollar was 6.0537. Average rates for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were 6.1412, 6.3116 and 6.4640, respectively. The related translation adjustments are reflected in “Accumulated other comprehensive income” in the equity section of our consolidated balance sheets. Foreign currency gains and losses resulting from transactions are included in earnings. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the accumulated foreign currency translation gain was approximately $30.4 million and $22.2 million, respectively.
Earnings per Ordinary Share
Earnings per ordinary share (basic and diluted) is based on the net income divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during each period. Ordinary share equivalents are not included in the calculation of diluted earnings per ordinary share if their effect would be anti-dilutive.
RESULTS OF CONTINUING OPERATIONS
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
Revenue
Revenue is derived from sales of aquatic products. Revenue in 2013 increased by 81.8% to $122.7 million from $67.5 million in 2012, primarily due to increase in sales volume as a result of the addition of 66 fishing vessels in June and September 2013, most of which began operating in the third quarter of the year, and increased unit selling prices.
Our top 6 species of fish sold including ribbon fish, Indian white shrimp, croaker fish, pomfret, red fish and threadfin together accounted for about 82% of revenue for 2013. The table below sets forth more detail regarding the revenue breakdown by different species of fish:
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage and per unit data)
| | For the Years Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | Average | | % of | | | | | | | | Average | | % of | |
| | Revenue | | Volume(KG) | | price | | Revenue | | | Revenue | | Volume(KG) | | price | | Revenue | |
Ribbon fish | | $ | 47,169 | | 19,249,641 | | 2.45 | | 38.5 | % | | $ | 29,163 | | 15,229,701 | | 1.91 | | 43.2 | % |
Indian white shrimp | | | 20,859 | | 3,041,471 | | 6.86 | | 17.0 | % | | | 9,659 | | 1,275,801 | | 7.57 | | 14.3 | % |
Croaker fish | | | 15,242 | | 6,817,575 | | 2.24 | | 12.4 | % | | | 8,306 | | 4,740,661 | | 1.75 | | 12.3 | % |
Pomfret | | | 10,022 | | 4,249,796 | | 2.36 | | 8.2 | % | | | 2,283 | | 1,318,409 | | 1.73 | | 3.4 | % |
Red fish | | | 3,575 | | 795,835 | | 4.49 | | 2.9 | % | | | 726 | | 221,250 | | 3.28 | | 1.1 | % |
Threadfin | | | 3,379 | | 1,025,272 | | 3.30 | | 2.8 | % | | | 596 | | 205,560 | | 2.90 | | 0.9 | % |
Others | | | 22,422 | | 7,991,721 | | 2.81 | | 18.2 | % | | | 16,728 | | 6,223,249 | | 2.69 | | 24.8 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 122,668 | | 43,171,311 | | 2.84 | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 67,461 | | 29,214,631 | | 2.31 | | 100.0 | % |
Cost of Sales and Gross Margin
The following tables set forth our cost of sales and gross profit, both in amounts and as a percentage of revenue for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
| | For the Years Ended December 31 | | Prencentage | | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | Change | | |
| | | | | % of | | | | | % of | | | | |
| | | US$ | | Revenue | | | US$ | | Revenue | | % | | |
Revenue | | $ | 122,668 | | 100.0 | % | $ | 67,461 | | 100.0 | % | 81.8 | | % |
Cost of sales | | | 75,760 | | 61.8 | % | | 41,876 | | 62.1 | % | 80.9 | | % |
Gross profit | | $ | 46,908 | | 38.2 | % | $ | 25,585 | | 37.9 | % | 83.3 | | % |
| | For the Years Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
| | US$ | | % of COS | | | % of Revenue | | | US$ | | % of COS | | | % of Revenue | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fuel cost | | $ | 46,562 | | 61.4 | % | | 38.0 | % | | $ | 28,113 | | 67.1 | % | | 41.7 | % |
Freight | | | 9,055 | | 12.0 | % | | 7.4 | % | | | 4,893 | | 11.7 | % | | 7.2 | % |
Labor cost | | | 6,475 | | 8.5 | % | | 5.3 | % | | | 3,072 | | 7.3 | % | | 4.6 | % |
Maintenance fee | | | 3,761 | | 5.0 | % | | 3.0 | % | | | 2,675 | | 6.4 | % | | 4.0 | % |
Spare parts | | | 3,759 | | 5.0 | % | | 3.0 | % | | | 1,189 | | 2.8 | % | | 1.8 | % |
Depreciation and amortization | | | 3,649 | | 4.8 | % | | 3.0 | % | | | 441 | | 1.1 | % | | 0.6 | % |
License fee | | | 1,565 | | 2.1 | % | | 1.3 | % | | | 1,059 | | 2.5 | % | | 1.6 | % |
Service fee | | | 934 | | 1.2 | % | | 0.8 | % | | | 434 | | 1.1 | % | | 0.6 | % |
Total cost of sales | | $ | 75,760 | | 100.0 | % | | 61.8 | % | | $ | 41,876 | | 100.0 | % | | 62.1 | % |
Cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2013 was $75.8 million, representing an increase of 80.9% as compared to $41.9 million in the same period of 2012. The increase was principally due to increase in fuel cost for our fishing vessels as a result of the fleet expansion. Freight, labor cost and maintenance fee also increased which was in line with the increase in revenue.
Gross margin increased slightly to 38.2% in the year ended December 31, 2013 from 37.9% in the same period of 2012, primarily due to increase in unit selling price and change in products mix. Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2013 was $46.9 million, representing an increase of 83.3% as compared to $25.6 million in the same period of 2012 as a result of business expansion.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
The following table sets forth selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses, and income from operations both in amounts and as a percentage of revenue for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
| | For the Years Ended December 31, | | | Percentage | |
| | 2013 | | | 2012 | | | Change | |
| | | | | % of | | | | | | % of | | | | |
| | | US$ | | Revenue | | | | US$ | | Revenue | | | % | |
Gross profit | | $ | 46,908 | | 38.2 | % | | $ | 25,585 | | 37.9 | % | | 83.3 | % |
Operating Expenses: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Selling expenses | | | (1,618) | | (1.3) | % | | | (648) | | (1.0) | % | | 149.8 | % |
General & administrative expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Legal and professional fees | | | (1,541) | | (1.3) | % | | | (2,741) | | (4.0) | % | | (43.8) | % |
Salaries and staff welfare | | | (637) | | (0.5) | % | | | (179) | | (0.3) | % | | 255.4 | % |
Service fee | | | (231) | | (0.2) | % | | | - | | - | | | - | |
Others | | | (783) | | (0.6) | % | | | 80 | | 0.1 | % | | (1079.6) | % |
Total G&A expenses | | | (3,192) | | (2.6) | % | | | (2,840) | | (4.2) | % | | 12.4 | % |
Total SG&A expenses | | | (4,810) | | (3.9) | % | | | (3,488) | | (5.2) | % | | 37.9 | % |
Income from operations | | $ | 42,098 | | 34.3 | % | | $ | 22,097 | | 32.7 | % | | 90.5 | % |
Total SG&A expenses increased by37.9% to $4.8 million in theyear endedDecember 31, 2013 from $3.5 million in the same period of 2012. The increase in SG&A expenses was primarily attributable to higherselling expenses including storage and transportation fees, and salaries and staff welfare as a result of our expanded scale of operations, as well as higheradministrative costs associated with the company being a publicly listed company. As a percentage of revenue, SG&A expenses were3.9% in theyear endedDecember 31, 2013, compared to5.2% in the same period of 2012.
Other Income and Expenses
Net other income in the year ended December 31, 2013 was $3.4 million, as compared to net other expenses of $0.8 million in the same period of 2012. Included in other income and expenses, there was government subsidy of $7.3 million and $2.4 million in the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Excluding the impact of subsidy income, net other expenses increased by $0.8 million, mainly due to increase in interest expenses of$1.0 million.
Income Tax
We are exempted from income tax derived from our ocean fishing operations.
Net Income from continuing operations
Net income from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2013 was $45.5 million, or 37.1% of revenue, compared to $21.3 million, or 31.6% of revenue, in the same period of 2012.
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
For the Years Ended December 31, | |
2013 | | 2012 | |
Revenue | | Net income | Net margin | | Revenue | | Net income | Net margin | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
$ | 122,668 | | $ | 45,489 | | | 37.1 | % | $ | 67,461 | | $ | 21,298 | | | 31.6 | % |
Foreign Currency Translation Gain
During the year ended December 31, 2013, the RMB rose against the US dollar, and we had cash outsiderecognized a foreign currency translation gain of trust$8.2 million.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
Revenue
Revenue from continuing operations is derived from sales of $134,028, $382,830 in advances to affiliates, $100,844 in prepaid expensesaquatic products and $11,500 in accrued expenses. Throughfishing vessels rental.In the year ended December 31, 2011, revenue from sales of aquatic products and fishing vessels rental were $24.2 million and $1.4 million, respectively. Revenue in 2012 increased by 163.5% to $67.5 million from $25.6 million in 2011, primarily due to increase in sales of aquatic products, which accounted for 100% and 94.6% of the total revenue in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
In the year ended December 31, 2012, revenue derived from sales of aquatic products increased by 178.6% to $67.5 million from $24.2 million in the same period of 2011,primarily due to increase in sales volume as a result of the addition of20 fishing vessels in 2012 and increased unit selling prices.
Our top 6 species of fish sold including ribbon fish, Indian white shrimp, croaker fish,squid, conger eel andpomfret together accounted for about 83% of revenue for 2012. The table below sets forth more detail regarding the revenue breakdown by different species of fish:
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage and per unit data)
| | For the Years Ended December 31, | | | |
| | 2012 | | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | Average | | % of | | | | | | | | Average | | % of | |
| | Revenue | | Volume(KG) | | price | | Revenue | | | Revenue | | Volume(KG) | | price | | Revenue | |
Ribbon fish | | $ | 29,163 | | 15,229,701 | | 1.91 | | 43.2 | % | | $ | 12,800 | | 9,522,550 | | 1.34 | | 50 | % |
Indian white shrimp | | | 9,659 | | 1,275,801 | | 7.57 | | 14.3 | % | | | 9 | | 1,400 | | 6.43 | | - | |
Croaker fish | | | 8,306 | | 4,740,661 | | 1.75 | | 12.3 | % | | | 3,014 | | 1,958,600 | | 1.54 | | 11.8 | % |
Squid | | | 3,436 | | 1,192,555 | | 2.88 | | 5.1 | % | | | 1,532 | | 558,000 | | 2.75 | | 6.0 | % |
Conger eel | | | 2,928 | | 830,115 | | 3.53 | | 4.3 | % | | | 1,287 | | 493,500 | | 2.61 | | 5.0 | % |
Pomfret | | | 2,283 | | 1,318,409 | | 1.73 | | 3.4 | % | | | 417 | | 286,000 | | 1.46 | | 1.6 | % |
Others | | | 11,686 | | 4,627,389 | | 2.53 | | 17.4 | % | | | 5,157 | | 2,279,371 | | 2.26 | | 20.2 | % |
Total | | $ | 67,461 | | 29,214,631 | | 2.31 | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 24,216 | | 15,099,421 | | 1.60 | | 94.6 | % |
Cost of Sales and Gross Margin
The following tables set forth our cost of sales and gross profit, both in amounts and as a percentage of revenue for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011:
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
| | For the Years Ended December 31, | | | Percentage | |
| | 2012 | | | 2011 | | | Change | |
| | | | | % of | | | | | | % of | | | | |
| | | US$ | | Revenue | | | | US$ | | Revenue | | | % | |
Revenue | | $ | 67,461 | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 25,601 | | 100.0 | % | | 163.5 | % |
Cost of sales | | | 41,876 | | 62.1 | % | | | 14,601 | | 57.0 | % | | 186.8 | % |
Gross profit | | $ | 25,585 | | 37.9 | % | | $ | 11,000 | | 43.0 | % | | 132.6 | % |
| | For the Years Ended December 31, | |
| | 2012 | | | 2011 | |
| | US$ | | % of COS | | | % of Revenue | | | | US$ | | % of COS | | % of Revenue | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fuel cost | | $ | 28,113 | | 67.1 | % | | 41.7 | % | | $ | 8,564 | | 58.7 | % | 33.4 | % |
Freight | | | 4,893 | | 11.7 | % | | 7.2 | % | | | 2,017 | | 13.8 | % | 7.9 | % |
Labor cost | | | 3,072 | | 7.3 | % | | 4.6 | % | | | 1,008 | | 6.9 | % | 3.9 | % |
Maintenance fee | | | 2,675 | | 6.4 | % | | 4.0 | % | | | 1,604 | | 11.0 | % | 6.3 | % |
Spare parts | | | 1,189 | | 2.8 | % | | 1.8 | % | | | 770 | | 5.3 | % | 3.0 | % |
License fee | | | 1,059 | | 2.5 | % | | 1.6 | % | | | 122 | | 0.8 | % | 0.5 | % |
Depreciation | | | 441 | | 1.1 | % | | 0.6 | % | | | 438 | | 3.0 | % | 1.7 | % |
Service fee | | | 434 | | 1.1 | % | | 0.6 | % | | | 78 | | 0.5 | % | 0.3 | % |
Total cost of sales | | $ | 41,876 | | 100.0 | % | | 62.1 | % | | $ | 14,601 | | 100.0 | % | 57.0 | % |
Cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2012 was $41.9 million, representing an increase of 186.8% as compared to $14.6 million in the same period of 2011. The increase was principally due to increase in fuel cost for our fishing vessels as a result of the fleet expansion. Freight, labor cost and maintenance fee also increased which was in line with the increase in revenue.
Gross profit for theyearendedDecember 31, 2012was $25.6million, representing an increase of132.6% as compared to $11.0million in the same period of 2011as a result of business expansion.Gross margin decreased to 37.9% in the year ended December 31, 2012 from 43.0% in the same period of 2011, primarily due to the following reasons:
(i) 20 newly built vessels were put into operation in succession during 2012. In the initial stage, the equipment and machines of the new vessels alsorequire a certain run-in time to reach design-capacity. Therefore, certain part of the cost incurred since April 2012 was mainly due to the experimental operationof the new vessels; and
(ii) the harvest volume of 2012 in Indian was approximately 4,424 tons, approximately7,183 tons lowerthan that of 2011, due to an unusually slack season for fishing in India during 2012. Therefore, the much lower harvest volume in 2012 causedthegrossmargin decrease.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
The following table sets forth selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses, and income from operations both in amounts and as a percentage of revenue for the years ended December 31, 2012and 2011:
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
| | For the Years Ended December 31, | | Percentage | |
| | 2012 | | | 2011 | | Change | |
| | | | | % of | | | | | | % of | | | | | |
| | US$ | | Revenue | | | US$ | | Revenue | | % | |
Gross profit | | $ | 25,585 | | | 37.9 | | % | $ | 11,000 | | | 43.0 | % | | | 132.6 | % |
Operating Expenses: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Selling expenses | | | (648) | | | (1.0) | | % | | (384) | | | (1.5) | % | | | 68.9 | % |
General & administrative expenses | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Legal and professional fees | | | (2,741) | | | (4.0) | | % | | (6) | | | - | | | | 49181.0 | % |
Salaries and staff welfare | | | (179) | | | (0.3) | | % | | (23) | | | (0.1) | % | | | 696.2 | % |
Others | | | 80 | | | 0.1 | | % | | (222) | | | (0.9) | % | | | (135.8) | % |
Total G&A expenses | | | (2,840) | | | (4.2) | | % | | (251) | | | (1.0) | % | | | 1029.9 | % |
Total SG&A expenses | | | (3,488) | | | (5.2) | | % | | (635) | | | (2.5) | % | | | 449.4 | % |
Income from operations | | $ | 22,097 | | | 32.7 | | % | $ | 10,365 | | | (40.5) | % | | | 113.2 | % |
Total SG&A expenses increased by449.4% to $3.5million in theyearendedDecember 31, 2012 from $0.6million in the same period of 2011. The increase in SG&A expenses was primarily attributable to professional fees incurred for business combination and public listing, as well as our expanded scale of operations. As a percentage of revenue, SG&A expenses were5.2% in theyearendedDecember 31, 2012, compared to2.5% in the same period of 2011.
Other Income and Expenses
Net otherexpensesin the year ended December 31, 2012was$0.8million, as compared to net otherincomeof $0.1million in the same period of 2011. Included in other income and expenses, there was government subsidy of $2.4million and $0.8million in the years ended December 31, 2012and 2011,respectively. Excluding the impact of subsidy income, net other expenses increased by $2.4million, mainly due to increase in interest expenses of$2.3million.
Income Tax
We are exempted from income tax derived from our ocean fishing operations.
Net Income from continuing operations
Net income from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2012was $21.3 million, or 31.6% of revenue, compared to $10.4 million, or40.8% of revenue, in the same period of 2011.
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
For the Years Ended December 31, | |
2012 | | | 2011 | |
Revenue | | Net income | | Net margin | | | Revenue | | Net income | | Net margin | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
$ | 67,461 | | $ | 21,298 | | | 31.6 | % | | $ | 25,601 | | $ | 10,440 | | | 40.8 | % |
Foreign Currency Translation Gain
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the RMB rose against the US dollar, and we recognized a foreign currency translation gain of $4.1million.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As of December 31, 2013, we had total cash of $8.2 million, a decrease of $2.2 million from cash of continuing operations at December 31, 2012. Approximately $7.9 million is held in our Chinese subsidiary and VIEs. The company has no plans to repatriate these funds.Our current assets totaled $28.8 million as of December 31, 2013 while our current liabilities totaled $51.2 million. We have financed our activities to date primarily through cash generated from operating activities and loans from the banks and related parties, private placements of our securities.
Working capital deficit
In spite of net working capital deficit of $22.4 million as of December 31, 2013, we believe that our operating cash flows and available capital will be sufficient to maintain our operations for at least the next 12 months.
We expect our operations in 2014 to have increased profitability based on the expanded fleet and operating capacity. We believe that our operating cash inflows from the increased operations will be sufficient to meet the bank interest or principal repayments and other current liabilities as when they fall due.
As of December 31, 2013, we had undrawn borrowing facilities of approximately $23 million available for future operating activities and to settle capital commitments. We have long-term and trustworthy cooperative relationship with major commercial banks in Fujian Province and based on our experience, we did not encounter difficulties in obtaining new bank loans.
In additional to bank loans and private placements, we may also consider alternative means of debt and equity financing, to support our future expansions.
As part of our efforts to expand our fishing capacity, we are continuing to actively explore opportunities to expand our fleet, and in June 2013, we expanded our fishing fleet from 40 to 86 vessels through a purchase transaction of 46 fishing trawlers from a related party for a total consideration of $410.1 million. We have financed the transaction through i) $200.0 million cash generated from operating activities; ii) the relief of $54.9 million outstanding amount of related party debt to be repaid by Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd., or “Hong Long”, the seller of vessels; and iii) an amount of $155.2 million in accordance with the terms of a promissory note issued by the Company to Hong Long. The total transaction value equals the fair market value of such fishing vessels as determined by management.In September 2013, we further increased our fleet to 106 vessels with the addition of 20 newly-built fishing trawlers. We have financed the vessel production cost of $26.1 million through cash generated from operating activities and financing activities.
As of December 31, 2013, we had not withdrawn any fundsapproximately $8.2 million in cash,down $2.2 million from interest earned on$10.4 million of cash from continuing operation at December 31, 2012. The following table summarizes our cash flows for each of the Trust Account proceeds. Other thanperiods indicated:
(Amounts in thousands) clarify the deferred underwriting discounts and commissions, no amounts are payableportions from continuing operations in each of the titles of the following lines
| | For the Years Ended | |
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
Net cash provided by operating activities | | $ | 47,651 | | $ | 42,558 | |
Net cash used in investing activities | | | (335,642) | | | (77,051) | |
Net cash provided by financing activities | | | 31,327 | | | 43,108 | |
Net cash provided by discontinued operations | | | 86,299 | | | 50,943 | |
Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents | | | 3,033 | | | 1,727 | |
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year(1) | | | 175,489 | | | 114,204 | |
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year (2) | | $ | 8,157 | | $ | 175,489 | |
| (1) | Includes cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations of $165.1 million and $112.4 million at the beginning of the year in 2013 and 2012, respectively. |
| (2) | Includes cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations of $nil and $165.1 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. |
Operating activities
For the year ended December 31, 2013, cash provided by operating activities totaled $47.7million compared to $42.6million in the same period of 2012. This was primarily attributable to i) $45.5million of earnings in 2013; ii) a $16.0million increase inaccounts payabledue to the underwritersexpansion of our Offeringfleet and growth of operations; andiii) a $12.7million decrease in the eventreceipt in advance from customers as a result of a business combination. delivery of our products.
Investing activities
For the period from January 18, 2010 (inception) through DecembertheyearendedDecember 31, 2011,2013, we had a net losscash outflow of $334,968.$335.6million from investing activities. This was primarily attributable to: i)$200.0million capital investment in acquisition of new fishing vessels as a part of our planned expansion; ii) a$56.8million purchases of property, plant and equipment; and iii) $8.3 million proceeds from deferred income.
Financing activitiesWe have
For theyearendedDecember 31, 2013, we had a net cash inflow of $31.3 million from financing activities which was primarily driven by: i) $99.5 million proceeds from term loansandii) $68.2million outflow for the repayments of loans.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Guarantees and collateral provided to related parties
In October 2012, Pingtan Fishing entered into two pledge contracts with China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. Pursuant to the terms of the pledge contracts, Pingtan Fishing assigned 10 fishing vessels, as collateral to secure Hong Long’s long-term loans from the financial institution in amount of approximately $10.8 million, which are due on April 18, 2015. In addition to the collateral provided to Hong Long, Pingtan Fishing also guaranteed the repayment of $46.3 million for Hong Long’s long-term loans.
In August and September 2013, Pingtan Fishing entered into two pledge contracts with China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. Pursuant to the terms of the pledge contracts, Pingtan Fishing assigned 12 fishing vessels, as collateral to provide maximum guarantees of $9.9 million to Hong Long’s term loans, which are due on June 25, 2014.
In December 2013, Pingtan Fishing entered into a guarantee agreement with Ping An Bank Co., Ltd. Pursuant to the terms of the guarantee agreement, Pingtan Fishing provide maximum guarantees approximately of $8.3 million to Hong Long’s credit line in amount of $16.5 million which is due on December 23, 2014.
As of the date of this Form 10-K, Pingtan Fishing did not receive any demand from the lender that collateralized properties are intended to be disposed of or to make any payments under the guarantee.
On January 6, 2014, the Company borrowed a short term loan from Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Fuzhou Dongjiekou Branch, in amount of $1,849,120. The loan is due on March 25, 2014.
On January 20 and 21, 2014, the Company borrowed short term loans from Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Fuzhou Dongjiekou Branch, in amounts of $1,717,040 and $3,501,660 respectively. These loans are due on April 15 and 20, 2014 respectively.
On Juanuary 15, 2014, the Company borrowed a short term loan from The Export-Import Bank of China, Fujian Branch, in amount of approximately $3,303,765. The loan is due on November 27, 2023.
Pursuant to the Shares Purchase Agreement (“the Agreement”) dated December 4, 2013, where the Company exited and sold China Dredging Group to Hong Long ("the buyer") (Please see Note 2 of consolidated financial statements included in this report), the Company is required to indemnify the buyer and the same indemnification responsibility applies to the buyer for the events arising out of any breach of the Agreement or the memorandum of agreement in relation to the sale, purchase and delivery of the vessels for two years until December 3, 2015 and will be liable for the full amount of damages that exceed $1,000,000. The amount of damage shall be the amount finally determined by a court of competent jurisdiction or appropriate governmental administrative agency, or the amount agreed to pay Chum Capital Group, an entity owned and controlled byupon settlement in accordance with the Company’s Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, a totalterms of $10,000 per month for office space, administrative services and secretarial support. For the period from January 18, 2010 (inception) to December 31, 2011 theAgreement.
Contractual Obligations
The Company has
incurred $70,000 for these costs.Liquidity and Capital Resources
employment agreements with certain employees that provided severance payments upon termination of employment under certain circumstances, as defined in the applicable agreements. As of December 31, 2011, we had cash of $134,028, $50,255,577 investment held in trust and a $328,830 advance to our affiliate. Until the consummation of the Offering2013, the Company’s only sourcepotential minimum cash obligation to these employees was approximately $10,059.
On July 1, 2013, the Company entered into a service agreement with Hai Yi Shipping Limited that provided to use of
liquidity was the initial purchase of Founder Shares by the Sponsor and an unsecured promissory note with an officer of the Company. On June 2, 2011, we consummated the Company’s Offering of 5,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. Simultaneously with the consummation of the Company’s Offering, we consummated the private sale of 3,966,667 Insider Warrantsfor $2,975,000 in proceeds. We received net proceeds from the Company’s Offering and the sale of the Insider Warrants of approximately $51,151,641, net of the non-deferred portion of the underwriting commissions of $1,250,000premises, and offering costs and other expenses of approximately $573,359.
We will depend on sufficient interest being earned on the proceeds held in the Trust Account to provide us with additional working capital we may need to identify one or more target businesses, conduct due diligenceclerical, administrative support and complete our initial business combination, as well as to pay any franchise and income taxes that we may owe. As described elsewhere in this Report,consultation services upon the amounts in the Trust Account may be invested only in U.S. government treasury bills with a maturity of 180 days or less or in money market funds meeting certain conditions under Rule 2a-7 under the Investment Company Act.agreement expires on December 31, 2014. The current low interest rate environment may make it more difficult for such investments to generate sufficient funds, together with the amounts available outside the Trust Account, to locate, conduct due diligence, structure, negotiate and close our Initial Business Combination. If we are required to seek additional capital, we would need to borrow funds from our Sponsor or management team to operate or may be forced to liquidate. Neither our Sponsor nor our management teamservice fee is under any obligation to advance funds to us in such circumstances. Any such loans would be repaid only from funds held outside the Trust Account or from funds released to us upon completion of our Initial Business Combination. If we are unable to complete our Initial Business Combination because we do not have sufficient funds available to us, we will be forced to cease operations and liquidate the Trust Account.
Off-balance sheet financing arrangements
We have no obligations, assets or liabilities which would be considered off-balance sheet arrangements. We do not participate in transactions that create relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, often referred to as variable interest entities, which would have been establishedapproximately $231,000 for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements.
We have notyear ended December 31, 2013.
Pingtan Fishing leased office from Ping Lin. Pursuant to a rental agreement entered into any off-balance sheet financing arrangements, established any special purpose entities, guaranteed any debt or commitmentson July 31, 2012 with three-year term, annual lease is $13,678. The total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases with respect to service fee, cold storage warehouse and office as of other entities, or entered into any non-financial assets.Contractual obligations
We do not have any long-term debt, capital lease obligations,December 31, 2013 were as follows:
Rental expenses and service fee under operating
lease obligations or long-term liabilities other than a monthly feeleases for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $827,282, $307,559 and $488,861 respectively, of
$10,000 for office space, administrative serviceswhich $244,281, $212,043 and
secretarial support payable$488,861 are paid to
Chum Capital Group, an entity owned and controlled by the
Company’s Chairman and Chief Financial Officer. We began incurring this fee on June 2, 2011 and will continue to incur this fee monthly until the earlier of the completion of the Business Combination and the Company’s liquidation.related parties.
| | Payments due by period | |
Contractual Obligations | | Total | | < 1 year | | 1 – 3 years | | 3 – 5 years | | > 5 years | |
Operating lease obligations | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
- related party transactions | | $ | 483,931 | | $ | 475,837 | | $ | 8,094 | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
- non-related party transactions | | | 244,637 | | | 244,637 | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
Term Loan | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
- related party transactions | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
- non-related party transactions | | | 83,837,157 | | | 29,337,430 | | | 48,965,922 | | | 3,055,982 | | | 2,477,823 | |
Total | | $ | 84,565,725 | | $ | 30,057,904 | | $ | 48,974,016 | | $ | 3,055,982 | | $ | 2,477,823 | |
Recent accounting pronouncements Management does not believe that any recently issued, but not effective, accounting standards, if currently adopted, would have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.
Critical Accounting Policies
Our significant accounting policies are described in
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS-DISCONTINUED OPERATION
PERIOD FROM JANUARY 1 TO DECEMBER 4, 2013 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
During the year ended December 31, 2013, we determined our Dredging businesses would be exited (seeNote 2 - Discontinued Operations) in order to our audited financial statements included elsewhereincrease the focus on the Company's core operations and to improve overall profitability. In addition, we established certain targets in the areas of internal control in order to enhance the Company's profitability profile. As a result of this report. Webusiness exits, we believe the following critical accounting policesCompany is better positioned to achieve improved future financial results. The sale of our wholly owned subsidiary of CDGC is reflected as discontinued operations. The results of the business operations in prior years have been reclassify to conform with the 2013 presentation. Our operating results for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 have been adjusted to properly reflect discontinued operation. The transaction involved no cash and the most significant judgmentsCompany’s $155.2 million, 4% promissory note due on June 19, 2015 would be forgiven. We do not foresee there should be material impact on our liquidity and estimates usedfinancial condition as a result of this disposal. We also do not anticipate there shall be any contingencies which we shall require to accrue and include in our 2013 financials.
Revenue is derived from contract revenue of our dredging services. For the period from January 1 to December 4, 2013, revenue from dredging services decreased by23.0%to $161.5 million from $209.6 million in the preparationyear ended December 31, 2012. This decrease was primarily due to decrease of dredging volume as: i) we terminated the leasing agreements of four dredgers in the second half of 2012 because these four dredgers did not fit our new BT project which has higher unit price; ii) four of our financial statements.dredgers working in a project in northern China were only operated at 30% of their dredging capacity because of the unusually inclement weather in northern China during the first quarter of 2013. As a result, we only completed 63.0 million cubic meters of dredging volume in the period from January 1 to December 4, 2013, compared to 114.7 million cubic meters in the year ended December 31, 2012, representing a decrease of 45.1%.
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
| | For the Period from | | | | | | | | | | |
| | January 1 to December 4, | | | For the Year Ended | | | Percentage | |
| | 2013 (Disposal) | | | December 31, 2012 | | | Change | |
| | | | | % of | | | | | | % of | | | | |
| | US$ | | Revenue | | | US$ | | Revenue | | | % | |
Revenues | | $ | 161,497 | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 209,619 | | 100.0 | % | | (23.0) | % |
Cost of revenue | | | 90,352 | | 55.9 | % | | | 97,248 | | 46.4 | % | | (7.1) | % |
Gross profit | | $ | 71,145 | | 44.1 | % | | $ | 112,371 | | 53.6 | % | | (36.7) | % |
Cost of sales for the period from January 1 to December 4, 2013 was $90.4 million, representing a decrease of 7.1% as compared to $97.2 million in the year ended 2012. The decrease was primarily due to decreases in costs of consumable parts and leasing fees for dredgers of $39.0 million which were in line with the drop in revenue of our dredging services; being partly offset by reclamation cost of $29.1 million incurred during the period for the BT project.
Gross margin decreased to 44.1% in the period from January 1 to December 4, 2013 from 53.6% in 2012, primarily due to the low gross margin of the BT project which accounted for 27.0% of revenue of our dredging services in the period from January 1 to December 4, 2013. In spite of the relatively high unit price, the BT project has a gross margin of about 20%, which is lower than that of regular dredging contracts. Gross profit for the period from January 1 to December 4, 2013 was $71.1 million, representing a decrease of 36.7% as compared to $112.4 million in the year ended 2012.
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
| | For the Period from January 1 to | | | For the Year Ended December | | Percentage | |
| | December 4, 2013 (Disposal) | | | 31, 2012 | | Change | |
| | US$ | | % of Revenue | | | US$ | | % of Revenue | | % | |
Gross profit | | | 71,145 | | 44.1 | % | | | 112,371 | | 53.6 | % | (36.7) | % |
Operating Expenses: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total G&A expenses | | | (6,839) | | (4.2) | % | | | (8,761) | | (4.2) | % | (21.9) | % |
Operating income | | | 64,306 | | 39.8 | % | | | 103,610 | | 49.4 | % | (37.9) | % |
Income before income taxes | | | 67,252 | | 41.6 | % | | | 110,805 | | 52.9 | % | (39.3) | % |
Income taxes | | | (15,341) | | (9.5) | % | | | (26,311) | | (12.6) | % | (41.7) | % |
Net income | | | 51,911 | | 32.1 | % | | | 84,494 | | 40.3 | % | (38.6) | % |
Total SG&A expenses decreased by 21.9% to $6.8 million in the period from January 1 to December 4, 2013 from $8.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2012. The decrease in SG&A expenses was primarily attributable to decrease in revenue tax for dredging services as a result of decrease in revenue of dredging services. The tax is calculated as 3% of revenue of dredging services. As a percentage of revenue of dredging services, SG&A expenses were 4.2% in the period ended December 4, 2013, and the year ended December 31, 2012.
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
Revenue is derived from contract revenue of our dredging services. For the year ended December 31, 2012, revenue from dredging services decreased by 7.6% to $209.6 million from $227.0 million in the year ended December 31, 2011. This decrease was primarily due to decrease of dredging volume as we terminated the leasing agreements of four dredgers in the second half of 2012 because these four dredgers did not fit our new BT project which has higher unit price. As a result, we only completed 114.7 million cubic meters of dredging volume in 2012, compared to 126.6 million cubic meters in 2011, representing a decrease of 9.4%.
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
| | For the Year Ended | | | For the Year Ended | | | Percentage | |
| | December 31, 2012 | | | December 31, 2011 | | | Change | |
| | | | | % of | | | | | | % of | | | | |
| | US$ | | Revenue | | | US$ | | Revenue | | | % | |
Revenues | | $ | 209,619 | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 226,953 | | 100.0 | % | | (7.6) | % |
Cost of sales | | | 97,248 | | 46.4 | % | | | 98,907 | | 43.6 | % | | (1.7) | % |
Gross profit | | $ | 112,371 | | 53.6 | % | | $ | 128,046 | | 56.4 | % | | (12.2) | % |
Cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2012 was $97.2 million, representing a decrease of 1.7% as compared to $98.9 million in the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease was primarily due to decreases in costs of consumable parts and leasing fees for dredgers which were in line with the drop in revenue of our dredging services.
Gross margin decreased to 53.6% in 2012 from 56.4% in 2011. In 2012, average unit price increased by 2.2% compared to 2011, while average unit construction cost in 2012 increased by 9.0% compared to 2011. Gross profit in 2012 was $112.4 million, representing a decrease of 12.2% as compared to $128.0 million in 2011.
(Amounts in thousands, except for percentage)
| | For the Year Ended December 31, | | | For the Year Ended December | | Percentage | |
| | 2012 | | | 31, 2011 | | Change | |
| | US$ | | % of Revenue | | | US$ | | % of Revenue | | % | |
Gross profit | | | 112,371 | | 53.6 | % | | | 128,046 | | 56.4 | % | (12.2) | % |
Operating Expenses: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total G&A expenses | | | (8,761) | | (4.2) | % | | | (9,445) | | (4.2) | % | (7.2) | % |
Operating income | | | 103,610 | | 49.4 | % | | | 118,601 | | 52.3 | % | (12.6) | % |
Income before income taxes | | | 110,805 | | 52.9 | % | | | 126,499 | | 55.7 | % | (12.4) | % |
Income taxes | | | (26,311) | | (12.6) | % | | | (30,107) | | (13.3) | % | (12.6) | % |
Accretion of discount on Class A Preferred Shares | | | - | | - | | | | (6,135) | | (2.7) | % | - | |
Net income | | | 84,494 | | 40.3 | % | | | 90,257 | | 39.8 | % | (6.4) | % |
Total SG&A expenses decreased by 7.2% to $8.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2012 from $9.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease in SG&A expenses was primarily attributable to decrease in revenue tax for dredging services as a result of decrease in revenue of dredging services. The tax is calculated as 3% of revenue of dredging services. As a percentage of revenue of dredging services, SG&A expenses were 4.2% in 2012 and 2011.
Item
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISKThe net proceeds from
Commodity Price Risk
Oil cost accounts for over 60% of our initial public offering, includingtotal cost of sales. We are primarily exposed to oil price volatility caused by supply conditions, political and economic variables and other unpredictable factors. We purchase oil for used by our vessels at prevailing market prices. We do not have formal long-term purchase contracts with our suppliers and, therefore, we are exposed to the amounts heldrisk of fluctuating oil prices.
We did not have any commodity price derivatives or hedging arrangements outstanding at December 31, 2013 and did not employ any commodity price derivatives in 2013.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
While our reporting currency is the USD, a significant portion of our consolidated revenues and consolidated costs and expenses are denominated in RMB. Furthermore, a significant portion of our assets are denominated in RMB. As a result, we are exposed to foreign exchange risk as our revenues and results of operations may be affected by fluctuations in the trust accountexchange rate between USD and RMB.
The value of the RMB against the USD and other currencies is affected by, among other things, changes in the PRC’s political and economic conditions. Since July 2005, the RMB has not been pegged to the USD. Although the People’s Bank of China regularly intervenes in the foreign exchange market to prevent significant short-term fluctuations in the exchange rate, the RMB may appreciate or depreciate significantly in value against the USD in the medium to long term. Moreover, it is possible that in the future, PRC authorities may lift restrictions on fluctuations in the RMB exchange rate and lessen intervention in the foreign exchange market.
If the RMB depreciates against the USD, the value of our RMB revenues, earnings and assets as expressed in our USD financial statements will decline. A 1% average appreciation (depreciation) of the RMB against the USD would increase (decrease) our comprehensive income by$1.9 million based on our revenues, costs and expenses, assets and liabilities denominated in RMB as of December 31, 2013. To date, we have not entered into any hedging transactions to reduce our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk. While we may decide to enter into hedging transactions in the future, the availability and effectiveness of these hedging transactions may be investedlimited and we may not be able to successfully hedge our exposure at all.
Interest Rate Risk
We are exposed to interest rate risk arising from short-term and long-term variable rate borrowings from time to time. Our future interest expense will fluctuate in United States government securities withinline with any change in our borrowing rates. Our bank borrowings amounted to $83.8 million as of December 31, 2013. Based on the meaning of Section 2(a)(16)variable nature of the Investment Company Actunderlying interest rate, the bank borrowings approximated fair value at that date.
A hypothetical 100 basis point change in interest rates would impact our earnings and cash flows by approximately $0.8 million. The potential change in cash flows and earning is calculated based on the change in the net interest expense over a one year period due to an immediate 100 basis point change in interest rates.
Inflation Risk
Inflationary factors such as increases in the cost of 1940, havingour product and overhead costs may adversely affect our operating results. Although we do not believe that inflation has had a maturitymaterial impact on our financial position or results of 180 days or less, oroperations to date, a high rate of inflation in money market funds meeting the conditions under Rule 2a-7 underfuture may have an adverse effect on our ability to maintain current levels of gross margin and selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenues if the Investment Company Act, until the earlierselling prices of (i) consummation of an initial business combination, or (ii) liquidation of the Company. These funds are currently invested in U.S. government treasury bills having a maturity of three months or less.our products do not increase with these increased costs.
Item
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATAReference
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
| Page |
| |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | F1 |
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012 | F2 - F3 |
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 | F4 |
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 | F5 |
Consolidated Statements ofChanges in Shareholders’Equity for the years ended December 31,2013, 2012 and 2011 | F6 |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 | F7 - F8 |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements | F9 - F41 |
Financial Statement Schedules (Item 15(a)(2))
Financial statement schedules have been omitted because either they are not applicable or the required information is made to ourincluded in the financial statements beginning on page F-1, following item 15, of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.or the notes thereto.
Item
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE None.
Item
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES EvaluationConclusion Regarding the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
At the conclusion of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011 we carried out an evaluation, under
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officerofficer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operationofficer, we conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures, (asas such term is defined in Rulesunder Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)). Controls and other procedures that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the information that we are required to disclose in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Based on this evaluation, our assessment we have determinedChief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at the reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2011 due2013.
We performed additional analyses and other procedures to
certain material weaknesses. Our material weakness results from the fact that we create, review and process financial data without internal independent review due to our limited operations and personnel.Notwithstanding management’s assessmentensure that our disclosure controls and procedures were ineffective as of December 31, 2011 due to the material weakness described above, we believe that theconsolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-Kwere prepared in accordance with US GAAP. These measures included, among other things, expansion of our year-end closing procedures, including the consolidation process, and dedication of significant internal resources and external consultants to scrutinize account analyses and reconciliations at a detailed level. As a result, we concluded that the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report present fairly, in all material respects, our financial condition,position, results of operations and cash flows for the yearsperiods presented in conformity with US GAAP.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management, under the supervision of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate 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 for external purposes in accordance with GAAP. Internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that:
(i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;
(ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and
(iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with existing policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Under the supervision of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, our management conducted an assessment of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992), issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”).
A material weakness is a control deficiency, or combination of control deficiencies, that results in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected. In connection with management’s assessment of our internal control over financial reporting described above, management has identified the material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013 that we did not maintain a sufficient complement of personnel with an appropriate level of experience and training in the application of US GAAP commensurate with our financial reporting requirements.
We concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at the reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2013 because we did not maintain a sufficient complement of personnel with an appropriate level of experience and training in the application of US GAAP commensurate with the financial reporting requirements.
Plan for Remediation of Material Weaknesses
In response to the identified material weaknesses, our management, with oversight from our audit committee, has dedicated significant resources, including the engagement of external consultants to support management and additional training for the senior management and staff in its efforts to improve our control environment and to remedy the identified material weakness.
Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Our independent registered public accounting firm, UHY VOCATION HK CPA LIMITED, has issued an audit report with respect to our internal control over financial reporting, which appears in this Part II, Item 9A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Changes in Internal Controls
As disclosed in the quarterly reports for the quarters ended March 31, June 30, and September 30, 2013, our management evaluated and concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of March 31, June 30, and September 30, 2013, due to the identification of a material weakness. The material weakness we identified was that none of our employees had any formal training in U.S. GAAP and SEC rules and regulations.
During the period covered therebyby this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we have undertaken significant steps to remediate the material weakness described above and to improve our internal control over financial reporting. On April 18, 2013, we appointed Mr. Roy Yu as Chief Financial Officer of the Company. Mr. Yu has over 8 years’ experience in allsenior management roles in U.S. listed companies and served as Chief Financial Officer or senior financial executive for three companies. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Yu served as the Chief Financial Officer of Lihua International, Inc. (NASDAQ: LIWA). Mr. Yu attended London Southbank University from 2001 to 2004, where he holds a degree in accounting and finance. In 2005, Mr. Yu was trained in Sarbanes-Oxley Act compliance. On May 6, 2013, the Company appointed Mr. Lam Man Fung as Financial Controller of the Company. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Lam served as Financial Controller of Shouguang Dili Agri-products Group Company Limited. From 2005 to 2009, Mr. Lam was a senior auditor of Ernst & Young. Management believes Mr. Yu and Mr. Lam will bring to the Company necessary professional knowledge and will lead the Company in taking remediation steps necessary to address the material respects.weakness described above, regarding that none of the Company’s employees had any formal training in U.S. GAAP and SEC rules and regulations. On May 16, 2013, the Company appointed an independent compliance consultant of the Company to review and advise on the Company’s system of internal control over financing reporting pursuant to the Section 404 requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley. We have taken further steps to improve our internal control over financial reporting. We have engaged a PCAOB registered and inspected public accounting firm in the United States to provide consulting services to us in matters involving U.S. GAAP and SEC rules and regulations. We have also trained our accounting, internal audit and finance staff with these functions, and implemented additional financial and management controls, reporting systems and procedures.
We believe that our remediation measures and our continuingplan have significantly remediated the material weakness.
Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls and Procedures and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. In addition, the design of disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints and that management is required to apply judgment in evaluating the benefits of possible controls and procedures relative to their costs.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS
OF PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD.
We have audited Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. and its subsidiaries’ (the “Company”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s
Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting,
This annual report does not include a report of appearing in Item 15. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management’s assessment regardingand an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or an attestation reporttimely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS
OF PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD.(Continued)
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
A material weakness is a control deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the Company’s registered public accounting firm dueannual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The following material weakness has been identified and included in management’s assessment. The Company did not maintain effective monitoring controls to determine the adequacy of its internal control over financial reporting and related policies and procedures because the Company did not maintain a transition periodsufficient complement of personnel with an appropriate level of experience and training in the application of US GAAP commensurate with its financial reporting requirements. This material weakness was considered in determining the nature, timing, and extent of audit tests applied in our audit of the 2013 financial statements, and this report does not affect our report dated March 7, 2014 on those financial statements.
In our opinion, because of the effect of the material weakness described above on the achievement of the objectives of the control criteria, Pingtan Marine Enterprise Limited and its subsidiaries has not maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in internal control – Integrated Framework issued by the rulesCommittee of Sponsoring Organizations of the SEC for newly public companies.Treadway Commission (COSO).
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows of Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd and its subsidiaries and our report dated March 7, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion.
/s/ UHY VOCATION HK CPA LIMITED
Certified Public Accountants
Hong Kong, the People’s Republic of China,
March 7, 2014
Item
ITEM 9B. Other InformationOTHER INFORMATION
None.
PART III
Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Our current executive officers and directors, as of February 21, 2012, are as follows:
Name | 49 | Age | | Position |
Xuesong Song | | 42 | | Chairman of the Board and Chief Financial Officer |
Xuechu He | | 48 | | Vice Chairman and Director |
Jin Shi | | 41 | | Chief Executive Officer and Director |
Michael W. Zhang | | 42 | | Director |
Dongying Sun | | 40 | | Director |
Teng Zhou | | 47 | | Director |
Xue Bai | | 29 | | Secretary
|
Xuesong SongPART III has served as our chairman of the board of directors and chief financial officer since our inception. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. Song served as the chairman of ChinaGrowth North Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company, which acquired UIB Group Limited in January 2009, the second largest insurance brokerage firm in China. Following the acquisition, Mr. Song served as a director of UIB Group Limited from January 2009 through May 2010. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. Song also served as the executive vice president of business development and a director of the board of ChinaGrowth South Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company, which acquired Olympia Media Holdings Ltd. in January 2009, the largest privately owned newspaper aggregator and operator in China. Mr. Song has been a principal of Chum Capital Group Limited since August 2001, a merchant banking firm that invests in growth Chinese companies and advises them in financings, mergers & acquisitions and restructurings, which successfully acted as the sole advisor of Origin Agritech Ltd. (NASDAQ: SEED) and Hollysys Automation Technologies, Ltd (NASDAQ: HOLI) in their respective mergers with Chardan China Acquisition Corporation and Chardan North China Acquisition Corporation, respectively, and chief executive officer of Beijing Chum Investment Co., Ltd. since December 2001. Mr. Song was the chairman and chief executive officer of Shanghai Jinqiaotong Enterprise Developments Corporation Ltd. from April 2005 to May 2010, a direct investment company that owned approximately 18.4% of equity interest in Hollysys Automation Technologies, Ltd. before its merger with Chardan North China Acquisition Corporation. Mr. Song has been a director of Mobile Vision Communication Ltd. since July 2004. Between February 2001 and December 2001, Mr. Song was the vice president of ZZNode Holdings Ltd. Prior to joining ZZNode, Mr. Song held various positions from president assistant, vice president to deputy executive president at China Resources Investment & Management Co., Ltd. from October 1997 to December 2000. From January 1994 to July 1995, Mr. Song assumed positions from deputy representative of Beijing Office to representative of Hainan Office at Wins Group Holdings Ltd. Between July 1989 and January 1994, Mr. Song was an engineer with Tianjin Office, General Administration of Civil Aviation of China. Mr. Song received a Masters of Business Administration degree from Oklahoma City/Tianjin Program and an Associates degree in electrical engineering from Civil Aviation University of China. We believe Mr. Song is well-qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors due to his prior service as an executive and director of special purpose acquisition companies focused on China, as well as his contacts.Xuechu He has served as our vice-chairman of the board since March 2011. Mr. He is a permanent resident of the Hong Kong SAR. Mr. He has been engaged in direct investments in the PRC for the past six years as a successful investor and dealmaker. Mr. He earned his reputation as a value creator in the capital markets from several marquee cases in which he acted as chairman of the board and the controlling shareholder at several public companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange from June 1999 to present. Since October 2007, Mr. He has been the chairman and executive director of Honbridge Holdings Ltd. (HK:8137), a HK listed investment holding company that focuses on the new and traditional energy and resources sector, the production and development of highly purified silicon, as well as fashion and lifestyle publications. Since March 2005, Mr. He has been a director of Guorun Group Ltd., a direct investment company. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. He served as a director of ChinaGrowth North Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company, which acquired UIB Group Limited in January 2009, the second largest insurance brokerage firm in China. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. He also served as the chairman of ChinaGrowth South Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company, which acquired Olympia Media Holdings Ltd. in January 2009, the largest privately owned newspaper aggregator and operator in China. Mr. He was Chairman of the board of South China Information & Technology Ltd., from July 2002 to June 2005, a publicly listed company in Hong Kong Stock Exchange whose name was changed to Guorun Holdings Ltd. in July 2002 and merged with Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. in May 2005, the largest private automobile manufacturer in the PRC. Between September 2001 and April 2003, Mr. He was Chairman of Fourseas.com Ltd., a publicly listed company on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange whose name was changed to Shanghai Century Ltd. in June 2002 and merged with Shanghai Zendai Holdings in February 2003. Between August 2000 and November 2000, Mr. He was also Chairman of Interchina Holdings Ltd., a publicly listed company on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange acquired by him and merged with an operating company in the PRC. Mr. He was also Executive Director of Interchina Holdings Ltd. from November 2000 to September 2001. Prior to becoming an active investor, Mr. He established and operated his own businesses from May 1997 to June 1999, including property development, international trade and R&D of electric-powered vehicles. From December 1989 to May 1997, Mr. He assumed various positions at Finance Department of China Resources Holdings Co., Ltd. in Hong Kong, including audit manager, assistant general manager and deputy general manager, responsible for internal auditing, setting up internal control system, financial statements analysis, evaluating investment and financing projects, and providing to the board of directors critical analysis and advice related with finance in their decision-making process. Prior to joining China Resources Holdings Co., Ltd. in Hong Kong, Mr. He was the deputy director of the accounting department at China Resources Co., Ltd. in Beijing, responsible for financing and accounting activities related with import and export business from January 1985 to December 1989. Mr. He worked at the Ministry of Commodities (currently Ministry of Commerce), responsible for structuring accounting provisions for businesses between July 1983 and January 1985. Mr. He received a B.S. degree in finance and accounting from Anhui Finance and Trade College in 1983. Mr. He speaks Mandarin and Cantonese dialects of Chinese. Mr. He also currently serves as a director for Honbridge Management Limited, a Hong Kong company, Jessicacode Limited, a Hong Kong company, Kailun Photovoltaic Materials Investments Ltd., a Hong Kong company and Superb Taste Company Limited, a Hong Kong company.Jin ShiITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE has served as our Chief Executive Officer since March 2011, and Mr. Shi has served as a director since our inception. Mr. Shi served as vice-chairman of our Board of Directors from our inception until March 2011. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. Shi served as the chief executive officer and a director of the board of ChinaGrowth North Acquisition Corporation, which acquired UIB Group Limited in January 2009, the second largest insurance brokerage firm in China. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. Shi also served as the chief financial officer and a director of the board of ChinaGrowth South Acquisition Corporation, which acquired Olympia Media Holdings Ltd. in January 2009, the largest privately owned newspaper aggregator and operator in China. Mr. Shi has been a principal of Chum Capital Group Limited since February 2007, a merchant banking firm that invests in growth Chinese companies and advises them in financings, mergers & acquisitions and restructurings, which successfully acted as the sole advisor of Origin Agritech Ltd. (NASDAQ: SEED) and Hollysys Automation Technologies, Ltd. (NASDAQ: HOLI) in their respective mergers with Chardan China Acquisition Corporation and Chardan North China Acquisition Corporation, respectively, and a principal of Global Vestor Capital Partners LLC since November 2005. Mr. Shi has also been the chairman of Shanghai RayChem Industries Co., Ltd., a research & development based active pharmaceutical ingredient producer, since he founded the company in January 2005. Since September 2004, Mr. Shi has been the chief executive officer of Yihua Investment Co. Ltd., a direct investment company and the parent holding company of Shanghai RayChem Industries Co. Ltd. in China. Mr. Shi is also the president of PharmaSource Inc., a company he founded in 1997. Between June 1995 and October 1997, Mr. Shi was vice president of Sales and Marketing of Darsheng Trade & Technology Development Co., Ltd., the U.S. subsidiary of Tianjin Pharmaceuticals Corporation. From August 1992 through May 1995, Mr. Shi was with Tianjin Pharmaceuticals Corporation in China. Mr. Shi received a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University. We believe Mr. Shi is well-qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors due to his prior service as an executive and director of special purpose acquisition companies focused on China, as well as his contacts.Michael W. Zhang has served as a member of our board of directors since our inception and as our chief executive officer from January to March 2011. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. Zhang served as the chief executive officer and a director of the board of ChinaGrowth South Acquisition Corporation, which acquired Olympia Media Holdings Ltd. in January 2009, the largest privately owned newspaper aggregator and operator in China in which he remains as a director on the board. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. Zhang also served as the chief financial officer and was a director of the board of ChinaGrowth North Acquisition Corporation, which acquired UIB Group Limited in January 2009, the second largest insurance brokerage firm in China since February 2007. Mr. Zhang is the Managing Partner of Helios Capital Management Co., Ltd., a private equity firm focused on Chinese growth companies. Prior to Helios, Mr. Zhang was a partner with Chum Capital Group Limited, which successfully acted as the sole advisor of Origin Agritech Ltd. (NASDAQ: SEED) and Hollysys Automation Technologies, Ltd. (NASDAQ: HOLI) in their respective mergers with Chardan China Acquisition Corporation and Chardan North China Acquisition Corporation, respectively. He has been a principal of Global Vestor Capital Partners LLC since 2005. Prior to Global Vestor Capital Partners LLC, Mr. Zhang was an Investment Professional with Avera Global Partners LP, a hedge fund in which he screened and analyzed public equity in global markets. Prior to attaining an MBA degree from Yale University, Mr. Zhang gained rich experience in equity investment and mergers & acquisitions advisory transactions through several positions both in and outside of China, including investment manager with a wealthy family affiliated with Pacific Investment Corporation where he sourced and evaluated target companies in China, the co-founder and chief executive officer of IQBay Technology Inc., an e-commerce service provider based in Shanghai, and investment banker with Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. in the United States, where he completed more than $6 billion in mergers & acquisitions and financing transactions. Mr. Zhang received a Masters of Business Administration degree from Yale University, a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Indiana University in Bloomington and an Associate degree from the College of International Business, Shanghai University. He is currently a director of the board with China TopReach Inc., Shanghai Kinetic Medical Co., Ltd. and Chum Capital Group Limited.
Dongying Sun has been a member of our board of directors since inception. Mr. Sun has been a senior partner at Guantao Law Firm. For the past 15 years, Mr. Sun has served as PRC legal counsel to multinational corporations, both state-owned and privately-owned Chinese companies, private equity and venture capital funds as well as entrepreneurs in a wide range of industries relating to mergers & acquisitions and divestitures in China, and issuing equity and debt securities in domestic and international capital markets. From 1994 to 2000, Mr. Sun was a legal consultant in China Machine Building International Corp. Mr. Sun received the attorney qualification in 1995, an LL.M degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law in Illinois Institute of Technology in 2004, and an LL.B degree from China University of Politics and Law in 1994. We believe Mr. Sun is well-qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors due to his international legal experience, and specifically his experience advising state-owned and privately-owned Chinese companies, as well as his contacts.
Teng Zhou has served as a member of our board of directors since March 2011. Mr. Zhou is a permanent resident of the Hong Kong SAR. Mr. Zhou has been engaged in direct investments in the PRC for the past six years as a successful investor. Mr. Zhou was a key member of the team, led by Mr. He, that successfully completed various transactions of merging operating assets with listed companies on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Mr. Zhou has been CEO of Guorun Group Ltd. since March 2005, a direct investment company. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. Zhou served as an executive vice president and director of ChinaGrowth North Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company, which acquired UIB Group Limited in January 2009, the second largest insurance brokerage firm in China. From May 2006 through January 2009, Mr. Zhou also served as a director of ChinaGrowth South Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company, which acquired Olympia Media Holdings Ltd. in January 2009, the largest privately owned newspaper aggregator and operator in China. From July 2002 to June 2005, Mr. Zhou was Executive Director of South China Information & Technology Ltd., a publicly listed company on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange whose name was changed to Guorun Holdings Ltd. in July 2002 and merged with Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. in May 2005, the largest private automobile manufacturer in the PRC. Between September 2001 and April 2003, Mr. Zhou was Executive Director of Fourseas.com Ltd., a publicly listed company in Hong Kong Stock Exchange whose name was changed to Shanghai Century Ltd. in June 2002 and merged with Shanghai Zendai Holdings in February 2003. Mr. Zhou was also the president and director of Lifestyle International (HK) Co., Ltd. and Triumphant Glory Investments Ltd. Prior to becoming an active investor, Mr. Zhou operated his own business in trade, food service and capital market investment from August 1997 to September 2001. Mr. Zhou was assigned by China Resources Holdings Co., Ltd. in Hong Kong to manage an industrial manufacturing subsidiary from April 1986 to August 1997, during which he assumed various positions including Finance Director, CFO, Vice President and President. Mr. Zhou joined China Resources Holdings Ltd. in January 1985. From August 1983 to January 1985, Mr. Zhou researched cost accounting framework for the construction industry at China Academy of Building Research. Mr. Zhou received a B.S. in Accounting from Hunan Finance and Economic College. Mr. Zhou speaks Mandarin and Cantonese dialects of Chinese. Mr. Zhou also serves as a director for Shandong Hengyuan New Energy Technology Ltd., Shezhen Lifestyle Fashion & Accessories Co., Ltd., Shanxi Wusheng Aluminium Ltd., Prosper Glory Holdings Ltd., and Venture Link Assets Ltd.
Xue Bai has served as the secretary since March 2011. Ms. Bai has been an associate at Chum Capital Group Limited since July 2007, a merchant banking firm that invests in growth Chinese companies and advises them in financings, mergers & acquisitions and restructurings, which successfully acted as the sole advisor of Origin Agritech Ltd. (NASDAQ: SEED) and Hollysys Automation Technologies, Ltd. (NASDAQ: HOLI) in their respective mergers with Chardan China Acquisition Corporation and Chardan North China Acquisition Corporation. Prior to joining Chum, Ms. Bai attended the University of Melbourne (Australia) from March 2002 until December 2006 and Ms. Bai received a Bachelor Degree in Commerce and a Bachelor Degree in Information Systems from the University of Melbourne (Australia).
Our board of directors is divided into three classes, with only one class of directors being elected in each year and each class serving a three-year term. Our memorandum and articles of association provide that the number of directors which may constitute the board of directors shall be two or greater. Upon completion of this offering our board of directors will have six members. The term of office of the first class of directors, consisting of Dongying Sun and Michael W. Zhang, will expire at our first annual meeting of shareholders following the completion of this offering. The term of office of the second class of directors, consisting of Mr. Xuechu He and Mr. Teng Zhou, will expire at the second annual meeting following the completion of this offering. The term of office of the third class of directors, consisting of Xuesong Song, and Jin Shi, will expire at the third annual meeting following the completion of this offering.
Board of Directors Leadership Structure
Our memorandum and articles of association provide the Board of Directors with the flexibility to combine or separate the positions of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Historically, these positions have been separate. Our Board believes that the separation of these positions allows us to have a Chairman focused on the leadership of the Board while allowing our Chief Executive Officer to focus more of his time and energy on managing our operations. The Board of Directors believes that Mr. Song's service as both Chairman of the Board and Chief Financial Officer is in the best interest of our company and stockholders. Mr. Song possesses detailed and in-depth knowledge of the issues, opportunities, and challenges facing the company, and we believe he is the person best positioned to develop agendas that ensure that the Board's time and attention is focused on the most critical matters. Our Board believes that his combined role enables clear accountability and enhances our ability to communicate our message and strategy clearly and consistently to stockholders. Each of the directors other than Mr. Song and Mr. Shi is independent under the rules of NASDAQ and the SEC, and the board of directors believes that the independent directors provide effective oversight of management. Although the Board of Directors currently believes that the combination of the Chairman and Chief Financial Officer roles is appropriate in the current circumstances, we will maintain the flexibility to separate these positions in the future. While we do not currently intend to separate these positions, a change in leadership structure could be made if the Board of Directors determined it was in the best long-term interests of stockholders.
Board Committees
Our board of directors has formed an audit committee and a governance and nominating committee. Each committee is composed of three directors.
Audit Committee
Our audit committee consists of Michael W. Zhang, Xuechu He and Teng Zhou. As required by the rules of the Nasdaq Capital Market, each of the members of our audit committee is financially literate, and we consider Mr. He to qualify as an “audit committee financial expert” and “financially sophisticated” as defined under SEC and Nasdaq Capital Market rules, respectively. We will have an audit committee composed of three independent directors within one year of the date of our prospectus. The responsibilities of our audit committee will include:
meeting with our management periodically to consider the adequacy of our internal control over financial reporting and the objectivity of our financial reporting;
appointing the independent registered public accounting firm, determining the compensation of the independent registered public accounting firm and pre-approving the engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm for audit and non-audit services;
overseeing the independent registered public accounting firm, including reviewing independence and quality control procedures and experience and qualifications of audit personnel that are providing us audit services;
meeting with the independent registered public accounting firm and reviewing the scope and significant findings of the audits performed by them, and meeting with management and internal financial personnel regarding these matters;
reviewing our financing plans, the adequacy and sufficiency of our financial and accounting controls, practices and procedures, the activities and recommendations of the auditors and our reporting policies and practices, and reporting recommendations to our full board of directors for approval;
establishing procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints regarding internal accounting controls or auditing matters and the confidential, anonymous submissions by employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters;
| •a) | following the completion of this offering, preparing the report required by the rulesDirectors of the SEC to be included in our annual proxy statement; |
| • | monitoring compliance on a quarterly basis with the terms of this offering and, if any noncompliance is identified, immediately taking all action necessary to rectify such noncompliance or otherwise causing compliance with the terms of this offering; and |
| • | reviewing and approving all payments made to our officers, directors and affiliates. Any payments made to members of our audit committee will be reviewed and approved by our board of directors, with the interested director or directors abstaining from such review and approval.Registrant. |
Governance and Nominating Committee
Our governance and nominating committee consists of Xuechu He and Teng Zhou and Dongying Sun. The functions of our governance and nominating committee include:
recommending qualified candidates for election to our board of directors;
evaluating and reviewing the performance of existing directors;
making recommendations to our board of directors regarding governance matters, including our memorandum and articles of association and charters of our committees; and
developing and recommending to our board of directors governance and nominating guidelines and principles applicable to us.
Code of Ethics and Committee Charters
We have adopted a code of ethics that applies to our officers, directors and employees. Copies of our code of ethics and our board committee charters have been filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which our prospectus is a part. You will be able to review these documents by accessing our public filings at the SEC’s web site atwww.sec.gov. In addition, we will provide a copy of our code of ethics upon request, without charge. We intend to disclose any amendments to or waivers of certain provisions of our code of ethics in a Form 8-K.
Limitation on Liability and Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Cayman Islands law does not limit the extent to which a company’s memorandum and articles of association may provide for indemnification of officers and directors, except to the extent any such provision may be held by the Cayman Islands courts to be contrary to public policy, such as to provide indemnification against civil fraud or the consequences of committing a crime. Our memorandum and articles of association will provide for indemnification of our officers and directors for any liability incurred in their capacities as such, except through their own fraud or willful default. We have entered into indemnification agreements with each of our officers and directors which indemnify such individuals to the extent allowable under Cayman Islands law.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling us pursuant to the foregoing provisions, we have been informed that in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is theretofore unenforceable.
ITEM 11. Executive Compensation for Officers and Directors
Our officers and directors have not received any compensation for services rendered. Commencing on June 2, 2011 and through the earlier of consummation of our initial business combination or the liquidation of our trust account, we will pay Chum Capital Group a total of $10,000 per month for accounting, legal and operational support, access to support staff, and information technology infrastructure. We believe that such fees are at least as favorable as we could have obtained from an unaffiliated third party for such services. No compensation of any kind, including finders’ and consulting fees, will be paid either by us or by any affiliated entity for services rendered to us by any of our sponsor, officers and directors or any of their respective affiliates, for services rendered prior to or in connection with the consummation of an initial business combination. However, these individuals will be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with activities on our behalf such as identifying potential target businesses and performing due diligence on suitable business combinations. There is no limit on the amount of reimbursement these individuals may receive. After an initial business combination, members of our management team who remain with us may be paid consulting, management or other fees from the combined company with any and all amounts being fully disclosed to shareholders, to the extent then known, in the proxy solicitation materials furnished to our shareholders. It is unlikely the amount of such compensation will be known at the time of a shareholder meeting held to consider an initial business combination, as it will be up to the directors of the post-combination business to determine executive and director compensation. We do not have a long-term incentive plan or pension plan and do not provide retirement benefits to our employees. We have no plans or arrangements that result in the compensation of an executive officer or director in the event such person’s employment is terminated following a change of control.
Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares on March 27, 2012, by (1) each director and named executive officer of our Company, (2) all directors and named executive officers of our Company as a group, and (3) each person known by us to own more than 5% of our common stock. Applicable percentage ownership in the following table is based on 6,250,000 shares of common stock outstanding as of March 27, 2012.
Unless otherwise indicated, we believe that all persons named in the table have sole voting and investment powerInformation with respect to all ordinary shares beneficially ownedour Directors is set forth under the heading “Election of Directors” in our Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by them. The following table does not reflect beneficial ownership of the 3,966,667 insider warrants because these warrants are not exercisable until the later of one year after the date of our initial public offering and 30 days following the consummation of our initial business combination.
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner(1) | | Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership(2) | | | Approximate Percentage of Outstanding Ordinary Shares | |
Xuesong Song | | | 1,150,000 | (3) | | | 18.4 | % |
Jin Shi | | | 1,150,000 | (3) | | | 18.4 | % |
Xuechu He | | | 50,000 | | | | * | |
Teng Zhou | | | 50,000 | | | | * | |
Michael W. Zhang | | | 0 | | | | 0 | % |
Xue Bai | | | 0 | | | | 0 | % |
Dongying Sun | | | 0 | | | | 0 | % |
All directors and executive officers as a group (four individuals) | | | 1,250,000 | | | | 20 | % |
reference. | 10.2 | Form of Letter Agreement | Promissory Note issued by and among the Company, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and each of the Company’s officers, directors and initial shareholdersdated June 19, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Registration StatementCurrent Report on Amendment No. 5 to Form S-18-K (File No. 333-173323,001-35192) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on MayJune 25, 2011)2013). |
| 10.3 | Investment Management Trust | Share Purchase Agreement by and among the Companybetween Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. and American Stock Transfer & Trust CompanyFuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd., dated December 4, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.310.1 to the Company’s Registration StatementCurrent Report on Amendment No. 5 to Form S-18-K (File No. 333-173323,001-35192) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 25, 2011)December 9, 2013). |
| 10.4 | | Letter Agreement Regarding Administrative Support byEmployment Contract between Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. and among the Company and Chum Capital Group Limited (incorporatedRoy Yu, dated April 18, 2013. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.510.1 to the Company’s Registration StatementCurrent Report on Form S-18-K (File No. 333-173323, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission onApril 6, 2011)
|
10.5 | Registration Rights Agreement by and among the Company and the Initial Shareholders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Amendment No.4 to Form S-1 (File No. 333-173323, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 20, 2011) |
10.6 | Securities Purchase Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Amendment No.1 to Form S-1 (File No. 333-173323,001-35192) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 18, 2011)19, 2013).** |
10.7 | Sponsor Warrant Purchase10.5 | | Employment Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Amendment No.1 to Form S-1(File No. 333-173323, filed with the Securitiesbetween Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. and Exchange Commission on April 18, 2011)Xinrong Zhuo, dated October 26, 2013.* ** |
10.8 | Indemnity Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-173323, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 18, 2011)21.1 | | List of Subsidiaries* |
10.9 | Securities Escrow Agreement among the Company, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company and the Initial Shareholders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Amendment No.5 to Form S-1 (File No. 333-173323, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 25, 2011)23.1 | | Consent of Fried UHY VOCATION HK CPA LIMITED* |
14 | Code of Ethics (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-173323, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 18, 2011)31.1 |
31.1 | Certification of the ChiefPrincipal Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rulepursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002* |
| 31.2 | | Certification of the ChiefPrincipal Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rulepursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002* |
| 32.1 | | Certification of the ChiefPrincipal Executive Officer and Chiefpursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002* |
| 32.2 | | Certification of Principal Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) andpursuant to 18 U.S.C.1350 |
20U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002* |
| ** | Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement |
SIGNATURE
XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language) information is furnished and not filed or a part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections.
Pingtan Marine’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, at the time of filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, shall modify and supersede all prior documents filed pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for purposes of any offers or sales of any securities after the date of such filing pursuant to any Registration Statement or Prospectus filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, which incorporates by reference such Annual Report on Form 10-K.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of
Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
and Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this
Reportreport to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned,
heretothereunto duly authorized.
Dated: May 15, 2012
Date: March 10, 2014
| China Growth Equity Investment Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. | |
| | | |
| By: | /s/Jin Shi | Xinrong Zhuo |
| | Jin Shi | Xinrong Zhuo |
| | Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer and Director | |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
The undersigned directors and officers of China Growth Equity Investment Ltd. hereby constitute and appoint Xuesong Song and Jin Shi, with the power to act without the other and with full power of substitution and resubstitution, our true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent with full power to execute in our name and behalf in the capacities indicated below any and all amendments to this report and to file the same, with all exhibits and other documents relating thereto and hereby ratify and confirm all that such attorney-in-fact, or such attorney-in-fact’s substitute, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities
and Exchange Act of 1934, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated below.
indicated:Name | | Title | | Date |
| | | | |
/s/ Xuesong SongXinrong Zhuo | | Chairman of the Board and Chief FinancialExecutive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) | | May 15, 2012March 10, 2014 |
Xuesong Song | | | | |
| | |
/s/ Jin Shi | | Chief Executive Officer and Director | | May 15, 2012 |
Jin Shi | | | | |
| | |
/s/ Xuechu He | | Vice Chairman of the Board | | May 15, 2012 |
Xuechu He | | | | |
| | |
/s/ Dongying Sun | | Director | | May 15, 2012 |
Dongying SunXinrong Zhuo | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Michael W. ZhangRoy Yu | | DirectorChief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | | May 15, 2012March 10, 2014 |
Michael W. ZhangRoy Yu | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ TengLin Bao | | Director | | March 10, 2014 |
Lin Bao | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Yeliang Zhou | | Director | | May 15, 2012March 10, 2014 |
TengYeliang Zhou | | | | |
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Index to Financial Statements
| Page | | | |
Financial Statements/s/ Zengbiao Zhu | F-1 | Director | | March 10, 2014 |
Zengbiao Zhu | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Xuesong Song | | Director | | March 10, 2014 |
Xuesong Song | | | | |
| | | | |
/s/ Jin Shi | | Director | | March 10, 2014 |
Jin Shi | | | | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CONTENTS |
| Pages |
| | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | F-2 | F1 |
Balance Sheets | F-3 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 | | F2 - F3 |
| | |
Consolidated Statements of OperationsIncome for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 | F-4 | F4 |
Statement of Shareholders’ Equity | F-5 | |
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 | | F5 |
| | |
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 | | F6 |
| | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 | | F7 - F8 |
| | |
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | F-6 | F9 - F41 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
China Growth Equity Investment, Ltd.
Beijing, PRC
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
TO THE BOARD OFDIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS OF
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of China Growth Equity Investment, ofPingtan Marine EnterpriseLtd. (a development stage company)and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 20112013 and 2010,2012, and the related consolidated statements of operations,income and comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of thethreeyears in the yearperiod ended December 31, 2011 and the periods from January 18, 2010 (inception) to December 31, 2010 and 2011. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.2013. The Company’s management is responsible for theseconsolidatedfinancial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financialtheseconsolidatedfinancial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether
the financialtheconsolidatedfinancial statements are free of material misstatement.
The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, 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. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financialtheconsolidatedfinancial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the
overall financialoverallconsolidatedfinancial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financialtheconsolidatedfinancial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company aspositionof Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. and its subsidiariesas of December 31, 20112013 and 2010,2012, and the consolidated results of its operationsincome and its cash flows for each of thethreeyears in the yearperiod ended December 31, 2011 and the periods from January 18, 2010 (inception) to December 31, 2010 and 2011,2013 in conformity with U.S.accounting principles generally accepted accounting principles.in the United States of America.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established inInternal Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated, expressed an unqualified opinion on management’s assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting and an adverse opinion on the effectiveness at the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
/s/
Crowe Horwath LLPNew York, New York
UHY VOCATION HK CPA LIMITED
Certified Public Accountants
Hong Kong, the People’s Republic of China,
March
30, 2012CHINA GROWTH EQUITY INVESTMENT7, 2014
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(A Development Stage Company)Balance Sheets
| | December 31, 2011 | | | December 31, 2010 | |
| | | | | | | | |
ASSETS | | | | | | | | |
Current assets: | | | | | | | | |
Cash | | $ | 134,028 | | | $ | 167,374 | |
Investments held in trust at amortized cost | | | 50,255,577 | | | | - | |
Advances to Affiliate | | | 382,830 | | | | | |
Prepaid expenses | | | 100,844 | | | | 1,098 | |
Deferred offering costs | | | - | | | | 110,392 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 50,873,279 | | | $ | 278,864 | |
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY | | | | | | | | |
Current liabilities: | | | | | | | | |
Accrued expenses | | $ | 11,500 | | | $ | 64,906 | |
Deferred underwriter’s fee | | | 2,250,000 | | | | - | |
Shareholder loan | | | - | | | | 192,261 | |
Due to shareholders | | | 206 | | | | 206 | |
Total liabilities | | | 2,261,706 | | | | 257,373 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Maximum ordinary shares, subject to possible redemption 4,339,460 and 0 shares stated at conversion value, respectively | | | 43,611,572 | | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | |
Shareholders’ equity: | | | | | | | | |
Ordinary shares, $.001 par value Authorized 60,000,000 shares; 6,250,000 and 1,955,000 shares issued and outstanding respectively | | | 1,909 | | | | 1,955 | |
Additional paid-in capital | | | 5,333,060 | | | | 42,945 | |
Deficit accumulated during the development stage | | | (334,968 | ) | | | (23,409 | ) |
Total shareholders’ equity | | | 5,000,001 | | | | 21,491 | |
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity | | $ | 50,873,279 | | | $ | 278,864 | |
IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | (A) | |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Current assets | | | | | | | |
Cash | | $ | 8,156,599 | | $ | 10,426,140 | |
Notes receivable (banker's acceptances) transferred from related parties | | | - | | | 3,645,817 | |
Accounts receivable | | | 9,133,130 | | | 11,478,436 | |
Inventories | | | 9,095,736 | | | 194,331 | |
Prepaid expenses | | | 2,380,874 | | | 410,966 | |
Other receivables | | | 11,665 | | | 29,885 | |
Advances to related parties | | | - | | | 49,802,821 | |
Assets of discontinued operations | | | - | | | 361,460,444 | |
Total current assets | | | 28,778,004 | | | 437,448,840 | |
| | | | | | | |
Other assets | | | | | | | |
Other receivables | | | 1,213,440 | | | - | |
Long-term investment | | | 3,468,953 | | | 3,328,789 | |
Deposit on potential Joint Venture | | | - | | | 6,090,302 | |
Prepaid fixed asset deposits | | | 1,928,700 | | | - | |
Prepaid operating license rights | | | 215,381,356 | | | - | |
Property, plant and equipment, net | | | 107,178,269 | | | 37,141,906 | |
Total other assets | | | 329,170,718 | | | 46,560,997 | |
| | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 357,948,722 | | $ | 484,009,837 | |
| | | | | | | |
Liabilities and equity | | | | | | | |
Current liabilities | | | | | | | |
Accounts payable - third parties | | $ | 2,184,964 | | $ | 70,732 | |
- related parties | | | 13,807,605 | | | 5,765,632 | |
Receipt in advance - third parties | | | 297,034 | | | - | |
- related parties | | | - | | | 12,681,102 | |
Short-term loans | | | 9,085,353 | | | 25,169,260 | |
Long-term loans - current portion | | | 20,252,077 | | | 8,094,308 | |
Accrued liabilities and other payables | | | 3,851,047 | | | 1,033,784 | |
Advances from related parties | | | - | | | 153,961 | |
Deferred income | | | 1,733,485 | | | - | |
Liabilities of discontinued operations | | | - | | | 14,052,751 | |
Total current liabilities | | | 51,211,565 | | | 67,021,530 | |
| | | | | | | |
Other liabilities | | | | | | | |
Long-term loans, net of current portion | | | 54,499,727 | | | 16,689,321 | |
Total other liabilities | | | 54,499,727 | | | 16,689,321 | |
Total liabilities | | $ | 105,711,292 | | $ | 83,710,851 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (…/CONT’D)
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | (A) | |
Shareholders' equity | | | | | | | |
Ordinary shares, 225,000,000 shares authorized with $0.001 per share; 79,055,053 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 | | | 79,055 | | | 79,055 | |
Additional paid-in capital | | | - | | | 141,381,098 | |
Statutory reserves | | | 22,410,773 | | | 19,386,642 | |
Retained earnings | | | 199,341,512 | | | 217,224,220 | |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | | | 30,406,090 | | | 22,227,971 | |
Total shareholders' equity | | | 252,237,430 | | | 400,298,986 | |
| | | | | | | |
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity | | $ | 357,948,722 | | $ | 484,009,837 | |
| (A) | Represents the consolidation retrospectively restated as if Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. (formerly known as China Growth Equity Investment Limited) completed its merger with China Dredging Group Co., Ltd. and the share purchase of Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd. on January 1, 2011 rather than on February 25, 2013. Assets and liabilities of discontinued operations are retrospectively reclassified as of December 31, 2012 after taking into account of the Company’s plan to sell China Dredging Group Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries to an affiliate of the Company’s Chairman, CEO and major shareholder, Mr. Xinrong Zhuo. |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
CHINA GROWTH EQUITY INVESTMENT
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(A Development Stage Company)Statements of Operations
| | For the year ended December 31, 2011 | | | For the period from January 18, 2010 (Inception) to December 31, 2010 | | | For the period from January 18, 2010 (Inception) to December 31, 2011 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Formation and operating costs | | $ | 310,075 | | | $ | 11,248 | | | $ | 321,323 | |
Interest income | | | (5,577 | ) | | | - | | | | (5,577 | ) |
Interest expense | | | 7,739 | | | | 12,161 | | | | 19,900 | |
Other income | | | (678 | ) | | | - | | | | (678 | ) |
Net loss | | $ | (311,559 | ) | | $ | (23,409 | ) | | $ | (334,968 | ) |
Weighted average shares outstanding | | | 4,426,677 | | | | 1,955,000 | | | | | |
Basic and diluted net loss per share | | $ | (0.07 | ) | | $ | (0.01 | ) | | | | |
IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011(A) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Revenue | | $ | 122,667,769 | | $ | 67,461,468 | | $ | 25,600,636 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of revenue | | | (75,760,033) | | | (41,876,140) | | | (14,600,579) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Gross profit | | | 46,907,736 | | | 25,585,328 | | | 11,000,057 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Selling and marketing expenses | | | (1,618,278) | | | (647,850) | | | (383,472) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
General and administrative expenses | | | (3,191,637) | | | (2,839,848) | | | (251,343) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Operating income | | | 42,097,821 | | | 22,097,630 | | | 10,365,242 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Other income/(expense) | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment income | | | 69,519 | | | 15,138 | | | - | |
Interest income | | | 8,250 | | | 3,276 | | | 2,349 | |
Interest expenses | | | (4,171,989) | | | (3,176,920) | | | (844,650) | |
Subsidy income | | | 7,338,273 | | | 2,363,575 | | | 830,446 | |
Sundry income | | | 2,144 | | | - | | | - | |
Gain/(Loss) on foreign exchange, net | | | 144,740 | | | (5,113) | | | 86,950 | |
Total other income/(expense) | | | 3,390,937 | | | (800,044) | | | 75,095 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Income from continuing operations before income taxes | | | 45,488,758 | | | 21,297,586 | | | 10,440,337 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Income tax expense | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income from continuing operations | | | 45,488,758 | | | 21,297,586 | | | 10,440,337 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense | | | 51,910,662 | | | 84,494,428 | | | 90,257,249 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated net income | | $ | 97,399,420 | | $ | 105,792,014 | | $ | 100,697,586 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Basic and diluted earnings per share | | | | | | | | | | |
- From continuing operations | | $ | 0.58 | | $ | 0.27 | | $ | 0.13 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
- From discontinued operations | | | 0.65 | | | 1.07 | | | 1.14 | |
- Net income | | $ | 1.23 | | $ | 1.34 | | $ | 1.27 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding | | | | | | | | | | |
- Basic and diluted | | | 79,055,053 | | | 79,055,053 | | | 79,055,053 | |
| (A) | Represents the consolidation retrospectively restated as if Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. (formerly known as China Growth Equity Investment Ltd.) completed its merger with China Dredging Group Co., Ltd. and the share purchase of Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd. on January 1, 2011 rather than on February 25, 2013. |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statementsstatements.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIESCHINA GROWTH EQUITY INVESTMENT LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(A Development Stage Company)Statement of Shareholders’ Equity
For the Period January 18, 2010 (Inception) to December 31, 2011
| | | | | | | | | | | Deficit | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | Accumulated | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | During the | | | | |
| | Ordinary Shares | | | Additional | | | Development | | | Shareholders’ | |
| | Shares | | | Amount | | | Paid-in Capital | | | Stage | | | Equity | |
Ordinary shares issued at inception | | | 1,955,000 | | | $ | 1,955 | | | $ | 23,045 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 25,000 | |
Interest on shareholder loan | | | — | | | | — | | | | 19,900 | | | | — | | | | 19,900 | |
Net loss | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (23,409 | ) | | | (23,409 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2010 | | | 1,955,000 | | | | 1,955 | | | | 42,945 | | | | (23,409 | ) | | | 21,491 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Forfeiture of Initial Shareholders’ shares | | | (517,500 | ) | | | (518 | ) | | | 518 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Proceeds from initial public offering net of offering costs and underwriter discounts of $4,073,359 | | | 5,000,000 | | | | 5,000 | | | | 45,921,641 | | | | — | | | | 45,926,641 | |
Proceeds from sale of warrants in private placement | | | — | | | | — | | | | 2,975,000 | | | | — | | | | 2,975,000 | |
Proceeds subject to maximum conversion of 4,367,578 shares | | | — | | | | (4,368 | ) | | | (43,889,791 | ) | | | — | | | | (43,894,159 | ) |
Decrease of 28,118 shares subject to possible conversion at December 31, 2011 | | | — | | | | 28 | | | | 282,559 | | | | — | | | | 282,587 | |
Forfeiture of 187,500 Initial Shareholders’ shares due to expiration of underwriters’ over-allotment option | | | (187,500 | ) | | | (188 | ) | | | 188 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Net loss | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (311,559 | ) | | | (311,559 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2011 | | | 6,250,000 | | | $ | 1,909 | | | $ | 5,333,060 | | | $ | (334,968 | ) | | $ | 5,000,001 | |
IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 (A) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 97,399,420 | | $ | 105,792,014 | | $ | 100,697,586 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Other comprehensive income | | | | | | | | | | |
Foreign currency translation gain | | | 8,178,119 | | | 4,113,599 | | | 11,654,835 | |
Unrealized change in fair value of available-for-sale investment | | | - | | | (717) | | | - | |
Total comprehensive income | | $ | 105,577,539 | | $ | 109,904,896 | | $ | 112,352,421 | |
| (A) | Represents the consolidation retrospectively restated as if Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. (formerly known as China Growth Equity Investment Ltd.) completed its merger with China Dredging Group Co., Ltd. and the share purchase of Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd. on January 1, 2011 rather than on February 25, 2013. |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statementsstatements.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIESCHINA GROWTH
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY INVESTMENT LTD. FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013, 2012 AND 2011
(A Development Stage Company)Statements of Cash Flows
| | For the year ended December 31, 2011 | | | For the period from January 18, 2010 (Inception) to December 31, 2010 | | | For the period from January 18, 2010 (Inception) to December 31, 2011 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from operating activities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net loss | | $ | (311,559 | ) | | $ | (23,409 | ) | | $ | (334,968 | ) |
Adjustment to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest expense on shareholder loan | | | 7,739 | | | | 12,161 | | | | 19,900 | |
Foreign exchange gain | | | (632 | ) | | | - | | | | (632 | ) |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Advance to affiliate | | | (382,198 | ) | | | - | | | | (382,198 | ) |
Prepaid expenses | | | (99,746 | ) | | | (1,098 | ) | | | (100,844 | ) |
Accrued expenses | | | 6,141 | | | | 5,359 | | | | 11,500 | |
Due to shareholders | | | - | | | | 206 | | | | 206 | |
Net cash used in operating activities | | | (780,255 | ) | | | (6,781 | ) | | | (787,036 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from investing activities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest reinvested in the trust account | | | (5,577 | ) | | | - | | | | (5,577 | ) |
Funds placed in trust account from the initial public offering | | | (50,250,000 | ) | | | - | | | | (50,250,000 | ) |
Net cash used in investing activities | | | (50,255,577 | ) | | | - | | | | (50,255,577 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from financing activities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Proceeds from sale of ordinary shares to founding Shareholders | | | - | | | | 25,000 | | | | 25,000 | |
Proceeds from initial public offering | | | 50,000,000 | | | | - | | | | 50,000,000 | |
Proceeds from private placement of insider warrants | | | 2,975,000 | | | | - | | | | 2,975,000 | |
Payment of underwriters fees and offering costs | | | (1,772,514 | ) | | | (50,845 | ) | | | (1,823,359 | ) |
Proceeds from shareholder loan | | | - | | | | 200,000 | | | | 200,000 | |
Repayment of shareholder loan | | | (200,000 | ) | | | - | | | | (200,000 | ) |
Net cash provided by financing activities | | | 51,002,486 | | | | 174,155 | | | | 51,176,641 | |
Net (decrease) increase in cash | | | (33,346 | ) | | | 167,374 | | | | 134,028 | |
Cash at beginning of period | | | 167,374 | | | | - | | | | - | |
Cash at end of period | | $ | 134,028 | | | $ | 167,374 | | | $ | 134,028 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash financing activities | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred underwriters' commission included in proceeds from IPO | | $ | 2,250,000 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 2,250,000 | |
Accrued offering costs included in proceeds from initial public offering | | $ | - | | | $ | 59,547 | | | $ | - | |
IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| | Ordinary Shares, with | | | | | | | | | | | Accumulated | | | |
| | Par Value of 0.001 per share | | Additional | | | | | | | other | | Total | |
| | Number of | | | | | paid-in | | Statutory | | Retained | | comprehensive | | shareholders' | |
| | Shares | | Amount | | capital | | reserves | | earnings | | income | | equity | |
Balance as of January 1, 2011 (A) | | 6,250,000 | | $ | 2,358 | | $ | 5,153,278 | | $ | - | | $ | (155,635) | | $ | - | | $ | 5,000,001 | |
Increase of 122,875 shares subject to possible conversion at December 31, 2012 | | - | | | (125) | | | (1,234,770) | | | - | | | 1,234,895 | | | - | | | - | |
Redemption of shares | | (4,409,947) | | | (393) | | | 393 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
Business combination between China Dredging Group Co., Ltd. and Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd. | | 77,215,000 | | | 77,215 | | | 137,462,197 | | | 16,863,090 | | | 117,970,926 | | | 18,115,089 | | | 290,488,517 | |
Balance as of January 1, 2012 | | 79,055,053 | | $ | 79,055 | | $ | 141,381,098 | | $ | 16,863,090 | | $ | 119,050,186 | | $ | 18,115,089 | | $ | 295,488,518 | |
Net income | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 100,697,586 | | | - | | | 100,697,586 | |
Appropriation to statutory reserves | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 2,523,552 | | | (2,523,552) | | | - | | | - | |
Foreign currency translation gain | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 4,112,882 | | | 4,112,882 | |
Balance as of January 1, 2013 | | 79,055,053 | | $ | 79,055 | | $ | 141,381,098 | | $ | 19,386,642 | | $ | 217,224,220 | | $ | 22,227,971 | | $ | 400,298,986 | |
Net income | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 97,399,420 | | | - | | | 97,399,420 | |
Appropriation to statutory reserves | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 3,024,131 | | | (3,024,131) | | | - | | | - | |
Foreign currency translation gain | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 8,178,119 | | | 8,178,119 | |
Disposal of China Dredging Group Co., Ltd. | | - | | | - | | | 134,691,699 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 134,691,699 | |
Acquisition of fishing vessels from related party | | - | | | - | | | (276,072,797) | | | - | | | (112,257,997) | | | - | | | (388,330,794) | |
Balance as of December 31, 2013 | | 79,055,053 | | $ | 79,055 | | | - | | $ | 22,410,773 | | $ | 199,341,512 | | $ | 30,406,090 | | $ | 252,237,430 | |
| (A) | Represents the consolidation retrospectively restated as if Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. (formerly known as China Growth Equity Investment Ltd.) completed its merger with China Dredging Group Co., Ltd. and the share purchase of Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd. on January 1, 2011 rather than on February 25, 2013. |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statementsstatements.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 (A) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from operating activities | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income(3) | | $ | 97,399,420 | | $ | 105,792,014 | | $ | 100,697,586 | |
Discontinued operations, net of tax (3) | | | (51,910,662) | | | (84,494,428) | | | (90,257,249) | |
Income from continuing operations | | | 45,488,758 | | | 21,297,586 | | | 10,440,337 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net | | | | | | | | | | |
cash provided by operating activities | | | | | | | | | | |
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment | | | 3,297,751 | | | 2,983,086 | | | 1,917,747 | |
Available-for-sales financial instrument fair value adjustment | | | - | | | - | | | 705 | |
Short term investment income | | | - | | | (15,860) | | | - | |
Amortization of operating license rights | | | 720,339 | | | - | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities | | | | | | | | | | |
Accounts receivable - third parties | | | 2,788,320 | | | (10,562,176) | | | 1,627,853 | |
- related parties | | | - | | | 4,584,509 | | | (3,426,607) | |
Other receivables | | | 19,201 | | | 6,797,156 | | | (323,246) | |
Prepaid expenses | | | (1,925,477) | | | (218,759) | | | (157,077) | |
Inventories | | | (8,766,511) | | | 2,397,340 | | | (1,848,587) | |
Accounts payable - third parties | | | 2,081,172 | | | (43,377) | | | (73,055) | |
- related parties | | | 13,944,394 | | | 3,060,668 | | | (1,423,494) | |
Receipt in advance - third parties | | | 292,802 | | | (1,160,618) | | | 771,142 | |
- related parties | | | (13,026,770) | | | 12,675,074 | | | - | |
Accrued liabilities and other payables | | | 2,737,334 | | | 763,533 | | | 204,254 | |
Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations | | | 47,651,313 | | | 42,558,162 | | | 7,709,972 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from investing activities | | | | | | | | | | |
Payment for long term investment | | | - | | | (2,661,766) | | | (649,752) | |
Proceeds from disposition of / (payment for) short-term investment | | | - | | | 808,052 | | | (774,220) | |
Proceeds from deferred income | | | 8,320,882 | | | - | | | - | |
Payment for fixed asset deposits | | | (1,901,220) | | | - | | | - | |
Purchase of property, plant and equipment | | | (256,831,561) | | | (33,692,090) | | | (7,086,080) | |
Advance to related parties | | | (312,569) | | | (41,505,027) | | | (21,574,926) | |
Disposal of subsidiaries, net of cash | | | (84,917,899) | | | - | | | - | |
Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations | | | (335,642,367) | | | (77,050,831) | | | (30,084,978) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from financing activities | | | | | | | | | | |
Proceeds from short-term loans | | | 43,713,708 | | | 51,384,055 | | | 21,337,156 | |
Repayment of short-term loans | | | (60,613,140) | | | (48,079,121) | | | (10,055,693) | |
Proceeds from long-term loans | | | 55,811,568 | | | 26,617,656 | | | - | |
Repayment of long-term loans | | | (7,584,023) | | | (1,845,808) | | | - | |
Proceeds from capital injection | | | - | | | 5,955,756 | | | - | |
Advance from related parties, net of reception in form of note | | | | | | | | | | |
receivable | | | (777) | | | 9,075,004 | | | 12,361,389 | |
Net cash provided by financing activities from | | | | | | | | | | |
continuing operations | | | 31,327,336 | | | 43,107,542 | | | 23,642,852 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (…/CONT’D)
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 (A) | |
Cash flow from discontinued operations | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash provided by operating activities from discontinued operations | | | 79,605,841 | | | 92,587,488 | | | 67,151,092 | |
Net cash provided by/(used in) investing activities from discontinued operations | | | 7,099,979 | | | (42,204,987) | | | (47,811,882) | |
Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities from discontinued operations | | | (407,030) | | | 560,216 | | | 12,408 | |
Net cash provided by discontinued operations | | | 86,298,790 | | | 50,942,717 | | | 19,351,618 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Effect of exchange rate | | | 3,032,812 | | | 1,726,785 | | | 4,565,872 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net (decrease)/increase in cash | | | (167,332,116) | | | 61,284,375 | | | 25,185,336 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cash at the beginning of year (1) | | | 175,488,715 | | | 114,204,340 | | | 89,019,004 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cash at the end of year(2) | | $ | 8,156,599 | | $ | 175,488,715 | | $ | 114,204,340 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cash paid: | | | | | | | | | | |
From discontinued operations | | | | | | | | | | |
Income tax paid | | $ | 17,278,643 | | $ | 29,324,336 | | $ | 26,956,670 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
From continuing operations | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest paid | | $ | 4,060,069 | | $ | 3,428,193 | | $ | 952,200 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash transaction eliminated in above: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Banker's acceptance notes received from related parties | | $ | 3,745,196 | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Purchase of prepaid operating license rights | | $ | 216,101,695 | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Purchase of property, plant and equipment by setting off | | | | | | | | | | |
advances to related parties | | $ | 55,064,953 | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Deposit on setting up Joint Venture netted of accounts payable - | | | | | | | | | | |
related party | | $ | 6,090,302 | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
| (1) | Includes cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations of $165,062,575, $112,409,544 and $88,532,472 at the beginning of the year in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. |
| (2) | Includes cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations of $nil, $165,062,575 and $112,409,544 as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. |
| (3) | Total net income and net income from discontinued operations, net of tax included accretion of discount on Class A Preferred Shares in amount of $6,135,012. |
| (A) | Represents the consolidation retrospectively restated as if Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. (formerly known as China Growth Equity Investment Limited) completed its merger with China Dredging Group Co., Ltd. and the share purchase of Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd. on January 1, 2011 rather than on February 25, 2013. |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNote 1 — Organization and Plan of Business Operations
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 1. | DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION |
China Equity Growth Equity Investment Ltd. (the “Company”("CGEI") is aincorporated in the Cayman Islands as an exempted limited life exemptedliability company, organizedwas incorporated as a blank check company foron January 18, 2010 with the purpose of directly or indirectly acquiring, through a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, plan of arrangement, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination, an operating business, or control of ansuch operating business through contractual arrangements, that has its principal business and/or material operations located in the People’s RepublicPRC. In connection with its initial business combination, CGEI changed its name to Pingtan Marine Enterprise Ltd. (“the Company” or “PME”) in February 2013.
China Dredging Group Co., Ltd (“CDGC” or “China Dredging”) and Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd (“Merchant Supreme”) are limited liability companies incorporated on April 14, 2010 and June 25, 2012, respectively, in British Virgin Island (“BVI”).
Merchant Supreme, through its PRC Variable Interest Entity (“VIE”), Fujian Provincial Pingtan County Ocean Fishing Group Co., Ltd. (“Pingtan Fishing”) engages in ocean fishery with its owned and licensed vessels within Indian EEZ and Arafura Sea of
China.The registration statementIndonesia. Pingtan Fishing is ranked highly as one of the leading private (not state-owned) supplier and trader of oceanic aquatic products in PRC.
CGEI and CDGC entered into the Merger Agreement dated October 24, 2012, providing for the Company’s initial public offering (the “Offering”) was declared effective May 26, 2011. The Company consummated the Offering on June 2, 2011combination of CGEI and received net proceeds of $51,151,641, which included $2,250,000 in deferred underwriter’s fees, and $2,975,000 from the private placement sale of Insider Warrants (Note 3). The Company’s management has broad discretion with respectCDGC. Pursuant to the specific applicationMerger Agreement, CDGC continued as the surviving company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the net proceeds of this Offering, although substantiallyCGEI. CGEI also acquired all of the net proceedsoutstanding capital shares and other equity interests of this Offering are intended to be generally applied toward consummating aMerchant Supreme as per Share Purchase Agreement dated October 24, 2012. Following the completion of the business combination with an operating business that has its principal business and/or material operations located inheld on February 25, 2013, CDGC and Merchant Supreme became the People’s Republic of China (“Business Combination”). Furthermore, there is no assurance that the Company will be able to successfully effect a Business Combination. Upon the closing of the Offering, management has agreed that at least $10.05 per unit sold in the Offering will be held in a trust account (“Trust Account”) and invested in U.S. “government securities” within the meaning of Section 2(a)(16) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 having a maturity of 180 days or less or in money market funds meeting certain conditions under Rule 2a-7 promulgated under the Investment Company Act of 1940 until the earlier of (i) the consummation of its first Business Combination and (ii) liquidationwholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company. The placingordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share are listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “PME”.
On June 19, 2013, the Company entered into a master agreement with a related company, Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd (“Hong Long”) to acquire 46 fishing vessels with total consideration of funds$410.1 million representing the fair market value on the date of acquisition. The major shareholder of Hong Long is Ms. Ping Lin, spouse of Xinrong Zhuo (“Mr. Zhuo”), the Company’s Chairman and CEO, who holds66.5% whereas the remaining two shareholders, Mr. Zhuo’s cousins, hold33.5%. Mr. Zhuo currently holds about56.2% of PME. The transaction between PME and Hong Long is accounted as common control transaction. Based on Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 805-50, PME recorded the value of $21.8 million as the cost of the vessels which was the net carrying amount recorded in Hong Long's books at the date of transfer. The balance of $388.3 million above cost was treated as a return of capital in the Trust Account may not protect those funds from third party claims againstequity accounts. $112.3 million was recorded as a reduction in retained earnings and the Company. Althoughbalance of $276.1 million applied to additional paid-in capital.
On September 1, 2013, the Company will seekand Hong Long further entered into a Memorandum that Hong Long assigned its operating rights of 20 vessels under a license agreement to have all vendors, prospective target businessesPingtan Fishing. Subsequent to the licensing of the operating rights, Pingtan Fishing is entitled to100% operation and other entities it engages execute agreements withoperating results from vessels from September 1, 2013 onwards. The ownership of the vessels and the licenses are not allowed to be transferred to Pingtan Fishing under the CentralRenovationProjectGrantFunds requirement.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 1. | DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION (…/Cont’d) |
On December 4, 2013, 25-year operating license rights to the 20 new fishing vessels assigned from Hong Long to the Company waiving any right, title, interest or claimas part of any kind in or to any monies heldthe sale consideration on the disposal of CDGC and its subsidiaries. The license operating rights fair market value was estimated at $216.1 million. The value of license rights are recorded in the Trust Account, there is no guarantee that they will execute such agreements. prepaid operating license rights.
On December 4, 2013, the Company completed the sale of CDGC and its subsidiaries. (See Note 2)
Details of the Company’s subsidiaries and VIEs which are included as continuing operations in these consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2013 are as follows:
Name of subsidiaries | | Place and date of incorporation | | Percentage of ownership | | Principal activities |
| | | | | | |
Merchant Supreme Co., Ltd. (“Merchant Supreme”) | | BVI, June 25, 2012 | | 100% held by PME | | Intermediate holding company |
| | | | | | |
Prime Cheer Corporation Ltd. (“Prime Cheer”) | | Hong Kong, May 3, 2012 | | 100% held by Merchant Supreme | | Intermediate holding company |
| | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
Pingtan Guansheng Ocean Fishing Co., Ltd. ("Pingtan Guansheng") | | PRC, October 12, 2012 | | 100% held by Prime Cheer | | Intermediate holding company |
The following wholly owned or majority owned VIE’s are consolidated into financial statements.
Name of VIEs | |
|
Fujian Provincial Pingtan County Fishing Group Co., Ltd. (“Pingtan Fishing”) |
Pingtan Dingxin Fishing Information Consulting Co., Ltd. (“Pingtan Dingxin”) |
Pingtan Duoying Fishing Information Consulting Co., Ltd. (“Pingtan Duoying”) |
Pingtan Ruiying Fishing Information Consulting Co., Ltd. (“Pingtan Ruiying”) |
| 2. | DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS |
In order to protectplace increased focus on fishing business and pursue more effective growth opportunities, the amounts heldCompany decided to exit and sell the specialized dredging services currently operated by China Dredging to its affiliate, Hong Long, and the sale was completed on December 4, 2013 with payment in kind consideration of $543.8 million. Pursuant to ASC Topic 205-20, Presentation of Financial Statements-Discontinued Operations, the Trust Account,business of CDGC is considered as a discontinued operation because: (a) the operations and cash flows of CDGC were eliminated from the Company’s officersoperations; and directors have agreed to indemnify(b) the Company for claimswould not have ability to influence the operation or financial policies of creditors, vendors, service providers and target businesses who have not executed a valid and binding waiver of their right to seek payment of amounts due to them out of the Trust Account. The only obligations not covered by such indemnity are with respect to claims of creditors, vendors, service providers and target businesses that have executed a valid and binding waiver of their right to seek payment of amounts due to them out of the Trust Account. The remaining net proceeds (not held in the Trust Account) may be used to pay for business, legal and accounting due diligence on prospective acquisitions and continuing general and administrative expenses. Additionally, the interest income earned on the Trust Account may be releasedCDGC subsequent to the Company to fund working capitalsale.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 2. | DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (…/Cont’d) |
The payment consideration for the sale consisted of following items:
| (a) | offset the Company's current $155.2 million promissory note which matures onJune 19, 2015 and bears an interest rate of4%; |
| (b) | the transfer to the Company of the 25-year license operating rights for 20 new fishing vessels, with such rights appraised at $216.1 million at the fair market value; and |
| (c) | offset of current accounts of $172.5 million made between the Company and CDGC. |
The net assets of CDGC and to pay the Company’s tax obligations.The Company will provide shareholders with the opportunity to redeem their public shares for cash equal to a pro rata share of the aggregate amount then on deposit in the Trust Account, less franchise and income taxes payable, upon the consummation of the initial business combination, subject to the limitations described herein. The initial shareholders have agreed to waive their redemption rights with respect to their founder shares and any public shares they may hold in connection with the consummation of a business combination. The founder shares will be excluded from the pro rata calculation used to determine the per-share redemption price. Unlike many other blank check companies that hold shareholder votes and conduct proxy solicitations in conjunction with their initial business combinations and provide for related redemptions of public shares for cash upon consummation of such initial business combinations even when a vote is not required by law, the Company intends to consummate the initial business combination and conduct the redemptions without a shareholder vote pursuant to Rule 13e-4 and Regulation 14E of the Exchange Act, which regulate issuer tender offers, and file tender offer documents with the SEC. The tender offer documents will contain substantially the same financial and other information about the initial business combination and the redemption rights as is required under Regulation 14A of the Exchange Act, which regulates the solicitation of proxies. In the event the Company conducts redemptions pursuant to the tender offer rules, the Company’s offer to redeem shares shall remain open for at least 20 business days, in accordance with Rule 14e-1(a) under the Exchange Act. If, however, a shareholder vote is required by law, or the company decides to hold a shareholder vote for business or other legal reasons, the company will, like other blank check companies, offer to redeem shares in conjunction with a proxy solicitation pursuant to the proxy rules and not pursuant to the tender offer rules. If the Company seeks shareholder approval, it will consummate a business combination only if a majority of the outstanding ordinary shares voted are voted in favor of the business combination. In such case, the initial shareholders have agreed to vote their founder shares in accordance with the majority of the votes cast by the public shareholders and to vote any public shares purchased during or after this offering in favor of the initial business combination.
The Company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association provides that the Company will continue in existence only until 21 months from the consummation of the Offering.
Note 2 — Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilitiesits subsidiaries at the date of the sale was $236.6 million (after offsetting current accounts of $172.5 million made between the Company and CDGC), the disposal resulted in a net gain of $134.7 million, which was presented as part of additional paid-in capital for the year ended December 31, 2013 as it was sold to a related party with common control.
The results of operation of CDGC and its subsidiaries have been presented as a discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. The following table provides the financial
statements and the reported amounts of expensesresults included in net income from discontinued operations during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.Geographical Risk
The Company’s operations, if a Business Combination is consummated outside the United States, will be subject to local government regulations and to the uncertainties of the economic and political conditions of those areas.
Fair Value
The Company measures fair value in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Fair value measurements are applied under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. Financial instruments included in the Company’s balance sheets consist of cash and cash equivalents, investments held in trust, advances to affiliate, accrued expenses, and due to related parties. periods presented:
| | January 1 to | | January 1 to | | January 1 to | |
| | December 4 , | | December 31, | | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Revenue | | $ | 161,497,136 | | $ | 209,619,489 | | $ | 226,953,070 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Income from discontinued operations before income tax | | $ | 67,251,697 | | $ | 110,805,122 | | $ | 126,499,331 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Income tax | | $ | (15,341,035) | | $ | (26,310,694) | | $ | (30,107,070) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income from discontinued operations | | $ | 51,910,662 | | $ | 84,494,428 | | $ | 90,257,249 | |
The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities as of December 4, 2013 (disposal date) and December 31, 2012 were as follows:
| | December 4, | | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Cash | | $ | 84,917,899 | | $ | 165,062,575 | |
Other current assets | | | 28,821,788 | | | 36,613,112 | |
Non - current assets | | | 148,710,213 | | | 159,784,757 | |
Total assets of discontinued operations | | $ | 262,449,900 | | $ | 361,460,444 | |
| | | | | | | |
Current liabilities | | $ | 25,873,709 | | $ | 14,052,751 | |
| | | | | | | |
Net asset disposed | | $ | 236,576,191 | | | | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
| (a) | Basis of presentation |
| |
|
| | The accompanying audited consolidated financial statements and related notes have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP). |
| | |
| | The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiaries and VIEs in which the Company is the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared as if the existing corporate structure had been in existence throughout the periods presented and as if the reorganization had occurred as of the beginning of the earliest period presented. |
| | |
| | On December 4, 2013, the Company sold its100% interest in CDGC and its subsidiaries to Hong Long. As such, CDGC’s assets and liabilities have been classified on the balance sheet as assets and liabilities of discontinued operations as of December 31, 2012. The operating results of CDGC have been classified as discontinued operations in our statements of operations for all years presented. Unless otherwise indicated, all disclosures and amounts in the notes to the consolidated financial statements relate to the Company’s continuing operations. |
| | |
| | Reclassifications |
| | |
| | Certain prior year information has been reclassified to be comparable with the current period presentation. This reclassification has no effect on previously reported net income. |
| (b) | Consolidation of VIE |
|
| |
| | The Company has no direct or indirect legal or equity ownership interest in Pingtan Fishing. Moreover, another set of VIE agreements have been entered between Pingtan Guansheng and the shareholders of Pingtan Fishing. The shareholders of Pingtan Fishing also have assigned all their rights as shareholders, including voting rights and disposition rights of their equity interest in Pingtan Fishing to Pingtan Guansheng, our direct, wholly-owned subsidiary. Accordingly, by virtue of the VIE Agreements, Pingtan Guansheng is the primary beneficiary of Pingtan Fishing as defined by ASC 810 “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities”. Therefore, Pingtan Fishing is consolidated as VIE. |
| | |
| | In accordance with ASC 810-10-15-14, Pingtan Fishing and its subsidiaries; namely Pingtan Dingxin, Pingtan Duoying and Pingtan Ruiying are deemed VIEs for two reasons. First, the equity stockholders of Pingtan Fishing do not significantly enjoy the benefits of income or suffer the consequences of losses. Second, the equity stockholders of Pingtan Fishing do not possess the direct or indirect ability through voting or similar rights to make decisions regarding their activities that have a significant effect on the success of Pingtan Fishing. Therefore, in accordance with ASC 810-10-25-38A, the Company is deemed to be the primary beneficiary of Pingtan Fishing and the financial statements of Pingtan Fishing are consolidated in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (b) | Consolidation of VIE (…/Cont’d) |
| | The following tables show the assets and liabilities of the Company’s VIEs after eliminating the intercompany balances as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. The VIEs include Pingtan Fishing Group which comprises of Pingtan Fishing itself and its three subsidiaries; namely Pingtan Dingxin, Pingtan Duoying and Pingtan Ruiying. The creditors of Pingtan Fishing Group do not have recourse against the general creditors of their primary beneficiaries or other Group members. |
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
ASSETS | | | | | | | |
Cash | | $ | 7,736,308 | | $ | 6,710,472 | |
Notes receivable (banker's acceptances) transferred from related parties | | | - | | | 3,645,817 | |
Accounts receivable | | | 9,133,130 | | | 11,478,436 | |
Other receivables | | | 1,225,073 | | | 29,885 | |
Advances to related parties | | | - | | | 49,802,897 | |
Inventories | | | 9,095,736 | | | 194,331 | |
Prepaid expenses | | | 2,378,054 | | | 386,966 | |
Long-term investment | | | 3,468,953 | | | 3,328,789 | |
Deposit on potential Joint Venture | | | - | | | 6,092,302 | |
Prepaid fixed asset deposits | | | 1,928,700 | | | - | |
Property, plant and equipment, net | | | 107,178,269 | | | 37,141,906 | |
| | $ | 142,144,223 | | $ | 118,811,801 | |
| | | | | | | |
LIABILITIES | | | | | | | |
Accounts payable - third parties | | $ | 2,184,964 | | $ | 70,732 | |
- related parties | | | 13,807,605 | | | 5,765,632 | |
Receipt in advance - third parties | | | 297,034 | | | - | |
- related parties | | | - | | | 12,681,102 | |
Short-term loans | | | 9,085,353 | | | 25,169,260 | |
Accrued liabilities and other payables | | | 3,631,622 | | | 1,033,640 | |
Long-term loans | | | 74,751,804 | | | 24,783,629 | |
Deferred income | | | 1,733,485 | | | - | |
| | $ | 105,491,867 | | $ | 69,503,995 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (b) | Consolidation of VIE (…/Cont’d) |
The following tables show the revenue and cost of revenue, and net income of the Company’s VIEs after eliminating the intercompany balances for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Revenue | | $ | 122,667,769 | | $ | 67,461,468 | | $ | 25,600,636 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of revenue | | $ | (75,039,694) | | $ | (41,876,140) | | $ | (14,600,579) | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income attributable to the Company | | $ | 48,524,935 | | $ | 23,667,802 | | $ | 10,440,337 | |
| (c) | Use of estimates |
|
| |
| | The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management of the Company to make a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the years. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the recoverability of the carrying amount and the estimated useful lives of long-lived assets; valuation allowances for receivables, and realizable values for inventories. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates. |
| (d) | Foreign currency translation |
| | |
| | The Company uses United States dollars (“U.S. Dollar” or “US$” or “$”) for financial reporting purposes. The subsidiaries within the Company maintain their books and records in their respective functional currency, Chinese Renminbi (“RMB”) and Hong Kong dollars (“HKD”), being the lawful currency in the PRC and Hong Kong, respectively. Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated at the rate of exchange in effect on the balance sheet date; income and expenses are translated at the average rate of exchange prevailing during the period. The related transaction adjustments are reflected in “Accumulated other comprehensive income’’ in the equity section of the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. A summary of exchange rate is as follows: |
| | | December 31, | |
| | | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
Balance sheet items, except for equity accounts | | | RMB6.0537=$1 | | | RMB6.3086=$1 | |
| | | HKD7.7539=$1 | | | HKD7.7507=$1 | |
| | | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | | 2013 | | | 2012 | | | 2011 | |
Items in statements of income and cash flows | | | RMB6.1412=$1 | | | RMB6.3116=$1 | | | RMB6.4640=$1 | |
| | | HKD7.7565=$1 | | | HKD7.7556=$1 | | | HKD7.7793=$1 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (e) | Cash |
|
|
|
|
| Cash consists of cash on hand and at banks. |
| (f) | Accounts receivable |
| | |
| | The Company only grants credit terms to established customers who are deemed to be financially responsible. Credit periods to independent customers are within180 days after customers received the purchased goods. |
| | |
| | The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses. The Company reviews customer credit worthiness, past transaction history, and changes in payment terms when determining the adequacy of these allowances. Accounts are written off against the allowance when it becomes evident collection will not occur. |
| | |
| | No allowance for doubtful accounts has been provided for accounts receivable from third party customers for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The company collected a majority of receivable balances from third party customers as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 within60 days subsequent to respective balance sheet dates, and historically has not experienced uncollectible accounts from customers granted with credit sales. |
| (g) | Revenue recognition |
|
| |
| | The Company recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the price to the customer is fixed or determinable, and collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. |
| | |
| | With respects to the sale of frozen fish and other marine catches to third party customers, most of which are sole proprietor regional wholesalers in China, the Company recognizes revenue when customers pick up purchased goods at the Company’s cold storage warehouse, after payment is received by the Company or credit sale is approved by the Company for recurring customers who have history of financial responsibility. The Company does not offer promotional payments, customer coupons, rebates or other cash redemption offers to its customers. The Company does not accept returns from customers. Deposits or advance payments from customers prior to delivery of goods are recorded as receipt in advance. |
| (h) | Government grant |
|
|
|
| | Government grants are recognized at their fair value where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all attaching conditions will be complied with. When the grant relates to an expense item, it is recognized as income over the periods necessary to match the grant on a systematic basis to the costs that it is intended to compensate. Where the grant relates to an asset, the fair value is credited to the cost of the asset and is released to the income statement over the expected useful life in a consistent manner with the depreciation method for the relevant asset. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (i) | Deferred income |
|
|
|
| | Deferred income represents income collected but not earned as of the report date. This is primarily composed of receipts of the government grants to construct new fishing vessels. Upon the completion of the construction of the fishing vessels, the grant is deducted from the cost of the fishing vessels. |
| (j) | Fishing licenses |
|
|
|
| | Each of the Company’s fishing vessels requires an approval from Ministry of Agriculture of the People's Republic of China to carry out ocean fishing projects in foreign territories. These approvals are valid for a period from three to twelve months, and are awarded to the Company at no cost. The Company applies for the renewal of the approval prior to expiration to avoid interruptions of fishing vessels’ operations. |
| | |
| | Each of the Company’s fishing vessels operated in Indonesia water requires a fishing license granted by the authority in Indonesia. Indonesia fishing licenses remain effective for a period of twelve months and the Company applies for renewal prior to expiration. The Company records cost of Indonesia fishing licenses in prepaid expenses and amortizes over the effective period of the licenses. |
| (k) | Inventories |
|
|
|
| | Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost comprises of fuel, depreciation, amortization, direct labor, shipping, consumables, and government levied charges and taxes. Consumables include fishing nets and metal containers used by fishing vessels. The Company’s fishing fleets in India and Indonesia waters operate around the year, although the May to July period demonstrates lower catch quantities compared to the October to January peak season. Cost of frozen fish and other marine catches at period-ends is calculated using the weighted average method. There was no inventory valuation reserve provided as at December 31, 2013 and 2012. |
| (l) | Prepaid operating license rights |
| | |
| | Prepaid operating license rights is recorded at the lower of the net present value of the minimum license payments or the fair value of the licenses at the inception of the agreement. No interest element of the finance cost is charged to the comprehensive income over the license period as the license payment is fully satisfied. Amortization expense is computed using the straight-line method over the term of the license. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (m) | Property, plant and equipment |
|
|
|
| | Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for major additions and betterments are capitalized. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is computed by the straight-line method over the assets estimated useful lives. |
| | |
| | Upon sale or retirement of property, plant and equipment, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is reflected in operations. |
| | |
| | The estimated useful lives of the assets are as follows: |
| | Estimated lives | |
Fishing vessel | | 10-20 | |
Major improvement on fishing vessel | | 4-20 | |
Motor vehicle | | 3-5 | |
Ship and office equipments | | 3-5 | |
| | Expenditures for repairs and maintenance, which do not extend the useful life of the assets, are expensed as incurred. |
| (n) | Capitalized interest |
|
|
|
| | Interest associated with the construction of a fishing vessel is capitalized and included in the cost of the fishing vessels. When no debt is incurred specifically for the construction of a fishing vessel, interest is capitalized on amounts expended on the construction using weighted-average cost of the Company’s outstanding borrowings. Capitalization of interest ceases when the construction is substantially complete or the construction activity is suspended for more than a brief period. The Company capitalized interest of $224,296, $244,619 and $109,899 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively in the fishing vessels under construction. |
| (o) | Impairment of long-lived assets |
|
|
|
| | In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment”, the Company tests long-lived assets or asset groups for recoverability when events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. Circumstances which could trigger a review include, but are not limited to: significant decreases in the market price of the asset; significant adverse changes in the business climate or legal factors; accumulation of costs significantly in excess of the amount originally expected for the acquisition or construction of the asset; current period cash flow or operating losses combined with a history of losses or a forecast of continuing losses associated with the use of the asset; and current expectation that the asset will more likely than not be sold or disposed significantly before the end of its estimated useful life. Recoverability is assessed based on the carrying amount of the asset and its fair value which is generally determined based on the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and the eventual disposal of the asset, as well as specific appraisal in certain instances. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount is not recoverable and exceeds fair value. If long-lived assets are to be disposed, depreciation is discontinued, if applicable, and the assets are reclassified as held for sale at the lower of their carrying amounts or fair values less costs to sell. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (p) | Income taxes |
|
|
|
| | Under the current laws of the Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands, the Company and Merchant Supreme are not subject to any income or capital gains tax, and dividend payments that the Company may make are not subject to any withholding tax in the Cayman Islands or British Virgin Islands. Under the current laws of Hong Kong, Prime Cheer is not subject to any capital gains tax and dividend payments and are not subject to any withholding tax in Hong Kong. |
| | |
| | The Company is not incorporated nor does it engage in any trade or business in the United States and is not subject to United States federal income taxes. The Company did not derive any significant amount of income subject to such taxes after completion of the Share Exchange and accordingly, no relevant tax provision is made in the consolidated statements of operations. |
| | |
| | Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based upon differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be effective when the differences are expected to reverse. |
| | |
| | Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent that management concludes it is more likely than not that the assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the consolidated statements of income in the period that includes the enactment date. |
| | |
| | The Company has not recorded deferred income taxes applicable to undistributed earnings of the subsidiary and VIEs located in the PRC because it is the present intention of management to reinvest the undistributed earnings indefinitely in PRC. Undistributed earnings amounted to approximately $82.7 million and $36.5 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. If the earnings of such foreign subsidiaries were not definitely reinvested, a deferred tax liability of approximately $4.1 million and $1.8 million would have been required at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Generally, such earnings become subject to the PRC tax upon the remittance of dividends and under certain other circumstances. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of deferred tax liability on such undistributed earnings. |
| | |
| | The Company prescribes a more-likely-than-not threshold for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken in the tax return. This interpretation also provides guidance on de-recognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, accounting for income taxes in interim periods and income tax disclosures. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were no amounts that had been accrued with respect to uncertain tax positions. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (p) | Income taxes (…/Cont’d) |
| | |
| | The Company's VIE, Pingtan Fishing, is a qualified ocean fishing enterprise certified by the Ministry of Agriculture of the PRC. The qualification is renewed on April 1 each year. Pingtan Fishing is exempt from income tax derived from its ocean fishing operations in the periods it processes a valid Ocean Fishing Enterprise Qualification Certificate issued by the Ministry of Agriculture of the PRC. |
| | |
| | In addition, Pingtan Fishing is not subject to foreign income taxes for its operations in India and Indonesia Exclusive Economic Zones. |
| (q) | Fair value measurements |
|
|
|
| | In January 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update “ASU 2010-06” “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures”. The new guidance clarifies two existing disclosure requirements and requires two new disclosures as follows: (1) a “gross” presentation of activities (purchases, sales, and settlements) within the Level 3 rollforward reconciliation, which will replace the “net” presentation format; and (2) detailed disclosures about the transfers in and out of Level 1 and 2 measurements. This guidance is effective for the first interim or annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2009, except for the gross presentation of the Level 3 rollforward information, which is required for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2010, and for interim reporting periods thereafter. The Company adopted the amended fair value disclosures guidance on January 1, 2012. |
| | |
| | As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, none of the Company’s financial assets or liabilities were measured at fair value on a recurring basis. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, none of the Company’s non-financial assets or liabilities was measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. |
| | |
| | The carrying values of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities, including accounts receivable, other receivables, other current assets, short-term loans, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities and other payables, are a reasonable estimate of fair value because of the short period of time between the origination of such instruments and their expected realization and if applicable, their stated interest rate approximates current rates available. It is not practicable to estimate the fair values of advance to and advance from related parties because of the related party nature of such advances. |
| (r) | Commitments and contingencies |
|
|
|
| | In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to contingencies, including legal proceedings and environmental claims arising out of the normal course of businesses that relate to a wide range of matters, including among others, contracts breach liability. The Company records accruals for such contingencies based upon the assessment of the probability of occurrence and, where determinable, an estimate of the liability. Management may consider many factors in making these assessments including past history, scientific evidence and the specifics of each matter. |
| | |
| | The Company’s management has evaluated all such proceedings and claims that existed as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. In the opinion of management, the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, liquidity or results of operations. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (s) | Economic and political risks |
|
|
|
| | The Company’s operations are conducted in the PRC. Accordingly, the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations may be influenced by the political, economic and legal environment in the PRC, and by the general state of the PRC economy. |
| | |
| | The Company’s operation in the PRC is subject to special considerations and significant risks not typically associated with companies in North America and Western Europe. These include risks associated with, among others, the political, economic and legal environment and foreign currency exchange. The Company’s results may be adversely affected by changes in the political and social conditions in the PRC, and by changes in governmental policies with respect to laws and regulations, anti-inflationary measures, currency conversion, remittances aboard, and rates and methods of taxation, among other things. |
| | |
|
| According the sale agreement signed on December 4, 2014, the Company does not own 20 fishing vessels but has the license operating rights to operate these vessels which are owned by Hong Long and entitled to 100% of net profit (loss) of the vessels. The Company has latitude in establishing price and discretion in supplier selection. There were no economic risks associated with the license operating rights but the Company may need to bear the operation risks and credit risks as aforementioned. |
| (t) | Pension and employee benefits |
|
|
|
| | Cost for pension and employee benefits was $24,502, $nil and $nil for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. |
| (u) | Segment information |
|
|
|
| | ASC 280 “Segment reporting” establishes standards for reporting information on operating segments in interim and annual financial statements. The Company currently has only one segment, all of the Company’s continuing operations and customers are in the PRC and all income is derived from ocean fishery. |
| (v) | Earnings per ordinary share |
|
|
|
| | Earnings per ordinary share (basic and diluted) is based on the net income attributable to ordinary shareholders divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during each period. Ordinary share equivalents are not included in the calculation of diluted earnings per ordinary share if their effect would be anti-dilutive. Retroactive treatment as required by FASB ASC paragraph 260-10-55-12 has been applied in computing earnings per share to reflect the business combination held on February 25, 2013. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
3. | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (v) | Earnings per ordinary share (…/Cont’d) |
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net income per ordinary share:
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income | | $ | 45,488,758 | | $ | 21,297,586 | | $ | 10,440,337 | |
- From continuing operations | | | 51,910,662 | | | 84,494,428 | | | 90,257,249 | |
- From discontinued operations | | $ | 97,399,420 | | $ | 105,792,014 | | $ | 100,697,586 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding (Basic and diluted) | | | 79,055,053 | | | 79,055,053 | | | 79,055,053 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Earnings per ordinary share (Basic and diluted) | | | | | | | | | | |
- From continuing operations | | $ | 0.58 | | $ | 0.27 | | $ | 0.13 | |
- From discontinued operations | | | 0.65 | | | 1.07 | | | 1.14 | |
- Net income | | $ | 1.23 | | $ | 1.34 | | $ | 1.27 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the number of securities convertible into ordinary shares not included in diluted EPS because the effect would have been anti-dilutive consists of the following: |
| Year Ended December 31, | |
| 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | |
Warrants to purchase ordinary share | 8,966,667 | | 8,966,667 | | 8,966,667 | |
| (w) | Recently issued accounting standards |
| | |
| | In February 2013, the FASB issued new authoritative accounting guidance related to the recognition and measurement of obligations arising from joint and several liability arrangements. This authoritative accounting guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2013 and is to be applied retrospectively. Based on its evaluation, the Company determined this guidance does not currently impact the Company’s financial statements and disclosures. |
| | |
| | In July 2013, the FASB issued new authoritative accounting guidance related to the reporting of unrecognized tax benefits when a net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward exists. The guidance states an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carry-forward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carry-forward, with certain exceptions. This authoritative accounting guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2013, and is to be applied prospectively to all unrecognized tax benefits that exist at the effective date. The Company determined this guidance does not significantly impact the Company’s financial statements and disclosures. |
| | |
| | There are no new significant accounting standards applicable to the Company that have been issued but not yet adopted by the Company as ofDecember 31, 2013. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
Cash is classified by geographical areas is set out as follows:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Hong Kong | | $ | 269,299 | | $ | 3,566,217 | |
The PRC | | | 7,887,300 | | | 6,859,923 | |
| | $ | 8,156,599 | | $ | 10,426,140 | |
| | | | | | | |
Maximum exposure to credit risk | | $ | 8,156,599 | | $ | 10,426,140 | |
Cash is denominated in the following currencies:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
USD | | $ | 381,516 | | $ | 3,715,356 | |
RMB | | | 7,752,468 | | | 6,709,922 | |
HKD | | | 22,615 | | | 862 | |
| | $ | 8,156,599 | | $ | 10,426,140 | |
In the PRC and Hong Kong, there are currently no rules or regulations mandating obligatory insurance of bank accounts. Management believes these instruments reasonably approximate their fair values duefinancial institutions are of high credit quality.
Renminbi is not a freely convertible currency and the remittance of funds out of the PRC is subject to
their short-term maturities.the exchange restrictions imposed by the PRC government.
Investments Held
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Accounts receivable from independent third parties | | $ | 9,133,130 | | $ | 11,478,436 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
Inventories as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Frozen fish and marine catches in warehouse | | $ | 9,095,736 | | $ | 161,484 | |
Frozen fish and marine catches in transit | | | - | | | 32,847 | |
| | $ | 9,095,736 | | $ | 194,331 | |
| 7. | OTHER RECEIVABLES – NON – CURRENT PORTION |
Other receivables as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Grants receivable from the PRC Government | | $ | 1,213,440 | | $ | - | |
Other receivables represented grant receivables for construction of new fishing vessels.
Long-term investment represents the Company’s VIE, Pingtan Fishing’s interest in TrustInvestment securities consistFujian Pingtan Rural-Commercial Bank Joint-Stock Co., Ltd. (“Pingtan Rural-Commercial Bank’’), a private financial institution. Pingtan Fishing completed its registration as a shareholder on October 17, 2012 and paid RMB21 million, or approximately $3.4 million to subscribe to15,113,250 shares, or5% of United States Treasury securities.the common stock of Pingtan Rural-Commercial Bank. There shares were as collateral for the company’s long term loan amounting to $2.3 million as of December 31, 2013. None of these shares were collateralized as of December 31, 2012.
Pingtan Fishing used the cost method of accounting to record its investment since Pingtan Fishing does not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financing activities of Pingtan Rural-Commercial Bank. The Company classifies its securitiesdetermined that there was no impairment on this investment as held-to-maturityof December 31, 2013 and 2012.
Long-term investment for which there are no quoted market prices, a reasonable estimate of fair value could not be made without incurring excessive costs.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 9. | DEPOSIT ON POTENTIAL JOINT VENTURE |
Deposit on potential Joint Venture as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Deposit for an asset interest acquisition and investment in a proposed Indonesia joint venture | | $ | - | | $ | 6,090,302 | |
Pursuant to a Cooperative Agreement and a Joint-Venture Contract datedMarch 1, 2006 entered into between the Company’s VIE, Pingtan Fishing and PT. Avona Mina Lestari (“Avona”), a related party, and an Indonesian enterprise engaged in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 320 “Investments - Debtfishing base management and Equity Securities.” Held-to-maturity securities are those securitiesfishing vessel operations, Pingtan Fishing agreed to acquire80% controlling interest in a fishing base owned by Avona. A joint venture company that would be controlled by Pingtan Fishing was to be established between Pingtan Fishing and Avona following Pingtan Fishing’s acquisition of controlling interest in Avona’s fishing base. Total investment for the acquisition of Avona fishing base 80% interest and establishment of a joint venture company was $7,200,000, comprising $5,470,000 cash and 14 fishing vessels to be valued at $1,730,000.
In the first quarter of 2013, Pingtan Fishing and Avona,as a result of non-approved of the proposed Joint Venture, entered into an agreement in which the deposit on setting up of joint venture would be used for settling the accounts payable of Avona that who provided ship agency, maintenance and other services to Pingtan Fishing. If the Indonesian Government authority subsequently approved the proposed Joint Venture, both companies would reconsider this investment.
| 10. | PREPAID OPERATING LICENSE RIGHTS |
On December 4, 2013, 25-year operating license rights to the 20 new fishing vessels assigned from Hong Long to the Company. Subsequent to the licensing of the operating rights, theCompany is entitled to100% of the operations and net profits (losses) from the vessels. The Company has the abilitylatitude in establishing price and intent to hold until maturity. Held-to-maturity treasury securities are recorded at amortizeddiscretion in supplier selection. The cost and adjusted for the amortization or accretion of premiums or discounts.Premiums and discounts are amortized or accreted over the life of the related held-to-maturity security as an adjustment to yield using the effective-interest method. Such amortization and accretionoperating license rights is included in the “interest income” line itemconsolidated balance sheets under other assets and was $215,381,356 ($720,339 net of accumulated amortization) as of December 31, 2013. Amortization expense in the statementsamount of operations. Interest income$720,339 is recognized when earned.
Income Taxes
included in the cost of revenue for the year 2013.
The Companyfuture minimum amounts of the operating license rights will be charged to earnings in future years as of December 31, 2013, are as follows:
For the years ended December 31,
2014 | | $ | 8,644,068 | |
2015 | | | 8,644,068 | |
2016 | | | 8,644,068 | |
2017 | | | 8,644,068 | |
2018 | | | 8,644,068 | |
Thereafter | | | 172,161,016 | |
| | $ | 215,381,356 | |
The25-year exclusive operating rights are fully satisfied and there are no further commitments and obligations.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 11. | PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET |
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Externally purchased fishing vessels | | $ | 62,551,611 | | $ | 20,934,880 | |
Office and other equipment | | | 147,894 | | | 134,684 | |
Fishing vessels under construction | | | 49,245,794 | | | 17,436,515 | |
| | | 111,945,299 | | | 38,506,079 | |
Less: Accumulated depreciation | | | (4,767,030) | | | (1,364,173) | |
| | $ | 107,178,269 | | $ | 37,141,906 | |
Depreciation expenses were $3,297,751, $2,983,086 and $1,917,747 for years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.Depreciation of $3,271,015, $2,959,622 and $1,917,747 was incorporated as a Cayman Island exempted companycharged to cost of revenue for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and therefore2011, respectively. Depreciation of $26,236, $23,464 and $nil was charged to general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company is not currently subject to income tax. Upon consummationhad 16 fishing vessels which were fully depreciated with estimated useful lives of an acquisition as contemplated,10 years. These fishing vessels were contributed by registered equity owners in exchange for Pingtan Fishing's paid-in capital and were recorded at the equity owners' historical cost of $nil at the time of contribution.
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company may be subject to income tax depending on the jurisdiction of the merged entity’s operations.Redeemable Common Stock
The Company accounts for redeemable common stock in accordancehad 38 and 20 fishing vessels with ASC 480-10-S99-3A “Classification and Measurement of Redeemable Securities” which provides that securities that are redeemable for cash or other assets are classified outside of permanent equity if they are redeemable at the option of the holder. In addition, if the redemption causes a liquidation event, the redeemable securities should not be classified outside of permanent equity.
Although the Company does not specify a maximum redemption threshold, its Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation provides that in no event will the Company redeem its public shares in an amount that would cause its shareholders’ equity to be less than $5,000,001. The Company recognizes changes in the redemption value immediately as they occur and adjusts the carrying value of the redeemable common stock to equal its redemption value at the end of each reporting period. Increases or decreases in thenet carrying amount of redeemable common stock shall$33,117,389 and $17,334,990 respectively pledge as collateral for its term loans and term loan of a related party. The term loans of the related party were in the amount of approximately $20.7 million and $10.6 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 respectively (Note 14 (c)).
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company pledged $19,657,400 and $nil of fishing vessels under construction as collateral for its term loans.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 12. | ACCOUNTS PAYABLE - RELATED PARTIES |
Accounts payable to related parties as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:
| | December 31, | |
| | | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
PT. Avona Mina Lestari | | $ | 1,967,151 | | $ | 5,589,681 | |
Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd. (“Hong Long”) | | | 6,214,491 | | | 175,951 | |
Hai Yi Shipping Limited | | | 251,341 | | | - | |
Haifeng Dafu Enterprise Company Limited | | | 377,216 | | | - | |
Hong Fa Shipping Limited | | | 4,996,031 | | | - | |
Zhiyan Lin | | | 1,375 | | | - | |
| | $ | 13,807,605 | | $ | 5,765,632 | |
Accounts payable to related parties are not collateralized, carry no interest, and do not have specific repayment terms.
Deposit on setting up joint venture netted off with accounts payable - related parties.
See Note 16(a) for the relationship of related parties.
| 13. | RECEIPT IN ADVANCE - RELATED PARTIES |
Receipt in advance from related parties as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, consisted of the following:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Shenzhen Western Coast Fisherman Pier Co., Ltd (See Note 16 (a)) | | $ | - | | $ | 12,681,102 | |
In 2012, the Company received of $12,681,102 in advance from Shenzhen Western Coast Fisherman Pier Co., Ltd to supply fishery products in 2013.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company’s short and long-term loans consisted of the following items:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Classified by financial institutions: | | | | | | | | |
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China | | $ | - | | | $ | 14,390,323 | |
Fujian Haixia Bank | | | 9,085,353 | | | | 7,133,120 | |
China Minsheng Banking Corporation Limited | | | - | | | | 3,645,817 | |
| | $ | 9,085,353 | | | $ | 25,169,260 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Additional information: | | | | | | | | |
Maximum balance outstanding during the year | | $ | 25,169,260 | | | $ | 25,169,260 | |
Interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 | | $ | 1,229,965 | | | $ | 1,873,866 | |
Weighted average interest rate | | | 8.7 | % | | | 4.8 | % |
The principal payments for the outstanding short-term loans are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | Outstanding | |
| | | | Current | | | | | | | amount as of | |
| | Principal | | annualized | | | | | | | December | |
Name of Banks | | amount | | interest rate | | Terms of loans | | Collateral | | | 31,2013 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fujian Haixia Bank, Fuzhou Hualin Branch | | RMB30,000,000 | | Fixed rate at 8.400% per annum | | Due on March 22, 2014 | | Guaranteed by Xinrong Zhuo | | | 4,955,647 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fujian Haixia Bank, Fuzhou Hualin Branch | | RMB10,000,000 | | Fixed rate at 9.000% per annum | | Due on May 9, 2014 | | Guaranteed by Xinrong Zhuo | | | 1,651,883 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fujian Haixia Bank, Fuzhou Hualin Branch | | RMB15,000,000 | | Fixed rate at 9.000% per annum | | Due on April 23, 2014 | | Guaranteed by Xinrong Zhuo | | | 2,477,823 | |
| | | | | | | | | | $ | 9,085,353 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
Term Loans consist of the following:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | | |
China Minsheng Banking Corporation Limited, Fuzhou Branch | | $ | 14,829,774 | | | $ | 20,028,216 | |
Fujian Haixia Bank, Fuzhou Hualin Branch | | | 3,303,764 | | | | 4,755,413 | |
The Export-Import Bank of China, Fujian Branch | | | 46,706,972 | | | | - | |
China Development Bank, Fujian Branch | | | 9,911,294 | | | | - | |
| | $ | 74,751,804 | | | $ | 24,783,629 | |
Less: Current portion | | | (20,252,077) | | | | (8,094,308) | |
Long-term debt | | $ | 54,499,727 | | | $ | 16,689,321 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Additional information: | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average interest rate | | | 6.8 | % | | | 7.9 | % |
Interest expenses of long-term loans for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 amounted to $2,942,024, $900,122 and $nil, respectively. Interest expenses of $224,296, $244,619 and $109,899 are capitalized to construction in progress for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of December 31, 2013, a related company, Fujian International Trading and Transportation Company collateralized its0.3% investment in total equity interest of Xiamen International bank and1% of its investment in total equity interest of Fujian Pingtan Rural-Commercial bank Joint-Stocked Co., Ltd to guarantee Pingtan Fishing’s term loans of $3.8 million and $0.5 million respectively.
As of December 31, 2013, Hong Long collateralized its2.86% investment in total equity interest of Fujian Fuqing Rural-Commercial Bank,1.75% investment in total equity interest of Xiamen International Bank and2.7 % investment in total equity interest of Fujian Pingtan Rural-Commercial bank Joint-Stocked Co., Ltd to guarantee Pingtan Fishing’s term loans of $0.7 million, $19.6 million and $1.3 million respectively.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| (b) | Long-term loans (…/Cont’d) |
A summary of the principal payments for the outstanding term loans during the following eight fiscal years is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Total | |
| | | | | | Principal payment due during | | | | | | | | outstanding | |
Name of bank | | Collateral | | Term of loans | | 2014 | | 2015 | | 2016 | | 2017 | | 2018-2021 | | loan amount | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
China Minsheng Banking Corporation Limited, Fuzhou Branch | | Pingtan Fishing’s and Hong Long’s fishing vessels and guaranteed by Xinrong Zhuo | | May 4, 2012 to March 16, 2015 | | $ | 6,095,446 | | $ | 3,047,723 | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | 9,143,169 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
China Minsheng Banking Corporation Limited, Fuzhou Branch | | Pingtan Fishing’s and Hong Long’s fishing vessels and guaranteed by Xinrong Zhuo | | June 15, 2012 to March 16, 2015 | | | 1,486,694 | | | 743,347 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 2,230,041 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
China Minsheng Banking Corporation Limited, Fuzhou Branch | | Pingtan Fishing’s and Hong Long’s fishing vessels and guaranteed by Xinrong Zhuo | | June 29, 2012 to March 16, 2015 | | | 2,304,376 | | | 1,152,188 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 3,456,564 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fujian Haixia Bank, Fuzhou Hualin Branch | | Guaranteed by Xinrong Zhuo | | April 25, 2012 to March 22, 2015 | | | 1,651,882 | | | 1,651,882 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 3,303,764 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Export-Import Bank of China | | Hong Long’s investment in equity interest of a PRC local bank | | July 5, 2013 to December 10, 2017 | | | 3,386,359 | | | 4,724,383 | | | 5,418,174 | | | 6,111,965 | | | - | | | 19,640,881 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Export-Import Bank of China | | Hong Long’s investment in equity interest of a PRC local bank | | July 5, 2013 to December 10, 2017 | | | 123,891 | | | 181,707 | | | 198,226 | | | 214,745 | | | - | | | 718,569 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Export-Import Bank of China | | Fujian International Trading and Transportation Company Ltd’s investment in equity interest of a PRC local bank | | July 5, 2013 to December 10, 2017 | | | 660,753 | | | 925,054 | | | 1,024,167 | | | 1,172,836 | | | - | | | 3,782,810 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Export-Import Bank of China | | Guarantee of Hong Long | | July 5, 2013 to December 10, 2017 | | | 3,270,727 | | | 4,592,233 | | | 5,219,948 | | | 2,775,162 | | | - | | | 15,858,070 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Export-Import Bank of China | | Fujian International Trading and Transportation Company Ltd’s investment in equity interest of a PRC local bank | | September 29, 2013 to December 10, 2017 | | | 82,594 | | | 99,113 | | | 132,151 | | | 148,669 | | | - | | | 462,527 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Export-Import Bank of China | | Hong Long’s investment in equity interest of a PRC local bank | | September 29, 2013 to December 10, 2017 | | | 214,745 | | | 297,339 | | | 363,414 | | | 379,933 | | | - | | | 1,255,431 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Export-Import Bank of China | | Hong Long’s investment in equity interest of a PRC local bank | | September 29, 2013 to December 10, 2017 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 2,659,531 | | | - | | | 2,659,531 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Export-Import Bank of China Fujian Branch | | Pingtan Fishing’s investment in equity interest of a PRC local bank | | September 29, 2013 to December 10, 2017 | | | 396,451 | | | 561,640 | | | 660,753 | | | 710,309 | | | - | | | 2,329,153 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
China Development Bank Fujian Branch | | Guaranteed by Xinrong Zhuo, Honghong Zhuo, Mrs. and Mr. Zhiyan Lin and 14 fishing vessels under construction | | November 28, 2013 to November 27, 2021 | | | 578,159 | | | 1,156,318 | | | 1,238,912 | | | 1,404,100 | | | 5,533,805 | | | 9,911,294 | |
| | | | | | $ | 20,252,077 | | $ | 19,132,927 | | $ | 14,255,745 | | $ | 15,577,250 | | $ | 5,533,805 | | $ | 74,751,804 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| (c) | Guarantees and collaterals provided to related parties |
In October 2012, Pingtan Fishing entered into two pledge contracts with China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. Pursuant to the terms of the pledge contracts,Pingtan Fishing assigned 10 fishing vessels, as collateral to secure Hong Long’s long-term loans from the financial institution in amount of approximately $10.8 million, which are due onApril 18, 2015. In addition to the collateral provided to Hong Long, Pingtan Fishing also guaranteed the repayment of $46.3 million for Hong Long’s long-term loans.
In August and September 2013, Pingtan Fishing entered into two pledge contracts with China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. Pursuant to the terms of the pledge contracts,Pingtan Fishing assigned 12 fishing vessels, as collateral to provide maximum guarantees of $9.9 million to Hong Long’s term loans, which are due onJune 25, 2014.
In December 2013, Pingtan Fishing entered into a guarantee agreement with Ping An Bank Co., Ltd. Pursuant to the terms of the guarantee agreement,Pingtan Fishing provide maximum guarantees approximately of $8.3 million to Hong Long’s credit line in amount of $16.5 million which is due onDecember 23, 2014.
As of the issuance date of these financial statements, Pingtan Fishing did not receive any demand from the lender that collateralized properties are intended to be affecteddisposed of or to make any payments under the guarantee.
| 15. | ACCRUED LIABILITIES AND OTHER PAYABLES |
Accrued liabilities and other payables as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Accrued salaries and wages | | $ | 3,278,245 | | $ | 673,234 | |
Accrued expenses | | | 152,000 | | | - | |
Other payables | | | 420,802 | | | 360,550 | |
| | $ | 3,851,047 | | $ | 1,033,784 | |
As of December 31, 2013, the estimated social insurance and housing fund payment not provided are approximately $246,000 and $27,000, respectively, which are immaterial.No accruals have been provided for the Group's PRC social insurance and housing fund payments for the Group's PRC employees.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 16. | ADVANCES TO/FROM RELATED PARTIES |
Advances to/from related parties as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:
| (a) | Name and relationship of related parties |
Name of related party | | Relationship |
Panxing Zhuo | | Father of Xinrong Zhuo, a Family Member |
Honghong Zhuo | | Daughter of Xinrong Zhuo |
Qing Lin | | Brother-in-law of Xinrong Zhuo, a Family Member |
Longfei Zhuo | | Cousin of Xinrong Zhuo, a Family Member |
Sunqiang Zhou | | Brother-in-law of Xinrong Zhuo, a Family Member |
Cheng Chen | | Cousin of Xinrong Zhuo, a Family Member and |
| | shareholder of Hong Long |
Xiaojie Wu | | Brother-in-law of Xinrong Zhuo, a Family Member |
Xiaoqin Xu | | An employee of an affiliate company |
Xiaomei Yang | | An employee of the Company and niece of Xinrong Zhuo |
Xiaofang Zhuo | | Cousin of Xinrong Zhuo, a Family Member |
Longhua Zhuo | | Sister of Xinrong Zhuo,a Family Member |
Zhiyan Lin | | Shareholder of Pingtan Fishing |
Fujian Yihai Investment Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company majority owned by Longjie Zhuo, sibling of Xinrong Zhuo |
Fuzhou Haifeng Dafu Ocean Fishing Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company owned by Longfei Zhuo and Honghong Zhuo |
Fujian Lutong Highway Engineering | | An affiliate company majority owned by Xiaojie Wu, brother-in-law of Xinrong Zhuo |
Fujian Haiyi International Shipping Agency Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company to which the Company acted as a trustee equity owner. Haiyi International is ultimately majority owned and controlled by Sunqiang Zhou, brother-in-law of Xinrong Zhuo and a Family Member |
Fujian Xinnong Ocean Fisheries Development Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company to which the Company acted as a trustee equity owner. Xinnong is ultimately owned and controlled by Xiaojie Wu |
Fuzhou Haoyouli Fisheries Development Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company to which the Company acted as trustee equity owner. Haoyouli is ultimately owned and controlled by Sunqiang Zhou |
Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company majority owned and controlled by Ping Lin, spouse of Xinrong Zhuo and a Family Member |
PT. Avona Mina Lestari | | An affiliate company controlled by Xinrong Zhuo family domiciled in Indonesia, engaged in fishing base management and fishing vessel service |
PT. Dwikarya Reksa Abadi | | An affiliate company controlled by Xinrong Zhuo family domiciled in Indonesia, engaged in fishing base management and fishing vessel service |
Haifeng Dafu Enterprise Company Limited | | An affiliate company ultimately owned by Xinrong Zhuo and domiciled in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the PRC (“Hong Kong”) |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 16. | ADVANCES TO/FROM RELATED PARTIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (a) | Name and relationship of related parties (.../Cont’d) |
Name of related party | | Relationship |
Hai Yi Shipping Limited | | An affiliate company ultimately owned by Xinrong Zhuo and domiciled in Hong Kong Administrative Region of the PRC (“Hong Kong”) |
Fuzhou Wanhao Real Estate Property Investment Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company majority-owned and controlled by Qing Lin |
China Communication Materials Central and South Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company majority-owned by Lutong Highway |
Fujian Gangjun Construction Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company ultimately controlled by Xinrong Zhuo |
Fujian International Trading and Transportation Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company owned by Yihai Investment and Longhao Zhuo, sibling of Xinrong Zhuo and a Family Member |
Fuzhou Dongxing Longju Real Estate Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company owned by Xinrong Zhuo |
Shenzhen Western Coast Fisherman Pier Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company owned by Xinrong Zhuo |
Pingtan Heshun Fuel Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company under Xinrong Zhuo’s common control |
Fuzhou Hairong Trading Co., Ltd. | | An affiliate company under Xinrong Zhuo’s common control |
Hong Fa Shipping Limited | | An affiliate company ultimately owned by Xinrong Zhuo and domiciled in Hong Kong Administrative Region of the PRC (“Hong Kong”) |
| (b) | Advances to related parties |
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Honghong Zhuo | | $ | - | | $ | 1,642,203 | |
Panxing Zhuo | | | - | | | 6,196,248 | |
Qing Lin | | | - | | | 100,855 | |
Xiaofang Zhuo | | | - | | | 769,251 | |
Xiaomei Yang | | | - | | | 7,598,782 | |
China Communication Materials Central and South Co., Ltd | | | - | | | 6,895,349 | |
Fujian Haiyi International Shipping Agency Co., Ltd. | | | - | | | 243,117 | |
Fujian Lutong Highway Engineering Construction Co., Ltd. | | | - | | | 2,161,177 | |
Fujian Yihai Investment Co., Ltd | | | - | | | 13,467,150 | |
Fuzhou Haifeng Dafu Ocean Fishing Co., Ltd. | | | - | | | 956,315 | |
Fuzhou Haoyouli Fisheries Development Co., Ltd. | | | - | | | 7,204,451 | |
Fuzhou Wanhao Real Estate Property Investment Co., Ltd | | | - | | | 2,567,923 | |
| | $ | - | | $ | 49,802,821 | |
Advances to related parties represented loans to related parties. These balances are not collateralized, carry no interest, and do not have specific repayment terms.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 16. | ADVANCES TO/FROM RELATED PARTIES (…/Cont’d) |
| (c) | Advances from related parties |
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Kit Chan | | $ | - | | $ | 153,961 | |
On February 25, 2013, CGEI completed its merger with CDGC and the various transactions contemplated by charges against paid-in capital. Accordingly, 4,339,460the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”), dated as of October 24, 2012 among CGEI, CDGC, and China Dredging Sub Ltd. and the share purchase of Merchant Supreme contemplated by the Share Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2012 (the “Share Purchase Agreement”), among CGEI and Merchant Supreme (collectively, the “Business Combination”). Upon the consummation of the Business Combination, the ordinary shares, $0.001 par value per share of the Company were listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “PME”. Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, upon completion of the Merger, each share of then-issued outstanding ordinary shares and Class A preferred shares of common stock sold inCDGC was automatically cancelled and converted into the offering are classified outsideright to receive0.82947 Company Ordinary Shares. Pursuant to the terms of permanent equity at redemption value.
Basicthe Share Purchase Agreement, all of the issued and Diluted Loss per Share
Basic loss per share is computed by dividing net lossoutstanding shares of Merchant Supreme capital shares were purchased by the weighted-average numberCompany for an aggregate of25,000,000 Company Ordinary Shares. On February 26, 2013, the Company announced that it had completed the Business Combination.
An aggregate of30,329,883 ordinary shares outstanding duringand3,966,667 warrants that were originally issued by CGEI, to Chum Capital Group Limited, in connection with a private placement prior to CGEI’s initial public offering, and that became exercisable for the period. Diluted loss per share is computed similarly to basic loss per share except that the denominator is increased to include the number of additionalCompany’s ordinary shares that wouldbeginning on March 27, 2013 (the “Sponsor Warrants”). The Sponsor Warrants have been outstanding ifregistered for resale by the potential ordinary shares had been issuedselling security-holders under Form S-3 filed on June 17, 2013 and if the additional ordinary shares were dilutive. For all periods presented 8,966,667 warrants to purchase ordinary shares have been excluded from the computation of potentially dilutive securities as they are antidilutive.The 1,955,000 ordinary shares issued to the Company’s Initial Shareholders were issued for $25,000, which is considerably less than the Offering per share price; such shares have been assumed to be retroactively outstanding for the period since inception.
Note 3 — Initial Public Offering
declared effective on June 19, 2013. On June 2, 2011, the Company sold5,000,000 Units, units, at an Offeringoffering price of $10.00$10.00 per unit, (the “Offering”), generating gross proceeds of $50,000,000.$50,000,000. Each Unitunit consists of one ordinary share, $0.001$0.001 par value, of the Company and one Redeemable Purchase Warrant (“Warrant”).redeemable purchase warrant. Each Warrantwarrant will entitle the holder to purchase from the Company one ordinary share at an exercise price of $12.00$12.00 commencing upon the completion of a Business Combinationbusiness combination and expiring five years from the consummation of a Business Combination.business combination. The Company may redeemalso registered an aggregate of8,966,667 ordinary shares that are issuable by the Warrants, at a price of $.01 per WarrantCompany upon 30 days’ notice while the Warrants are exercisable, only in the event that the last sale priceexercise of the ordinary shares is at least $18.00 per share for any 20 trading days within a 30 trading day period ending on the third day prior to the date on which notice of redemption is given. In accordance with the warrant agreement relating to the3,966,667 Sponsor Warrants to be sold and5,000,000 warrants that were issued in the Offering, the Company is only required to use its best efforts to maintain the effectiveness of the registration statement covering the Warrants. The Company will not be obligated to deliver securities,CGEI’s initial public offering (the “Public Warrants”) and there are no contractual penalties for failure to deliver securities, if a registration statement is not effective at the time of exercise. Additionally, in the event that a registration is not effective at the time of exercise, the holder of such Warrant shall not be entitled to exercise such Warrant and in no event (whether in the case of a registration statement not being effective or otherwise) will the Company be required to net cash settle the warrant exercise. Consequently, the Warrants may expire unexercised and unredeemed.
In connection with the Offering the Company granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to 750,000 additional Units solely to cover over-allotments. On July 28, 2011 the underwriters had not exercised the over-allotment option and it expired.
The total underwriting fee will be 7.0%; 2.5% was paidbecame exercisable upon completion of the Offering and 4.5% comprised of (1) 2.25% of the gross proceeds of the Offering reduced by the aggregate redemption price of the public shares redeemed in connection with the consummation of the Company’s initial Business Combination, uptransactions contemplated by that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 24, 2012, between CGEI, CDGC, China Growth Dredging Sub Ltd. and Xinrong Zhuo and by that certain Share Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2012, between CGEI and Merchant Supreme.
Each Public Warrants and Sponsor Warrant (the “Warrants”) entitles the registered holder thereof to $1,125,000 will be automatically released to the underwriters upon completionpurchase one of the Company’s initial Business Combination, and (2) up to 2.25%ordinary shares upon payment of the gross proceeds of this offering, up to a maximum of $1,125,000 payable to the underwriters at the Company’s sole discretion.On June 2, 2011, certain of the initial stockholders purchased an aggregate of 3,966,667 warrants (the “Insider Warrants”) from the Company in a private placement pursuant to the exemption from registration contained in Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Insider Warrants were sold for a total purchaseexercise price of $2,975,000 or $0.75$12.00 per warrant. share.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| (a) | Share Capital (…/Cont’d) |
The private placement took place simultaneously with the consummation of the Offering. All of the proceeds received from this purchase were placed into the Trust Account. The InsiderSponsor Warrants are identical to the Public Warrants in the Offering except that the InsiderSponsor Warrants maywill be exercisable for cash or on a cashless basis, at the holder’s option, and will not be redeemable by the Company, in each case so long as such securitiesthey are still held by the Insidersthese purchases or their affiliates. Additionally,transferees.
In accordance with GAAP, the Company accounted for the Warrants as equity instruments.
A summary of all Insiders have waivedWarrants outstanding as of December 31, 2013 is presented below:
| | Number of | | | | | | |
| | Warrants | | Exercise Price | | Terms | |
| | | | | | | | |
Exercisable as of December 31, 2013 | | 8,966,667 | | $ | 12 | | 4.2 years | |
During the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, no warrant was granted, exercised or expired.
| (b) | Retained earnings and statutory reserves |
Pingtan Guansheng and Pingtan Fishing Group operate in the PRC, are required to reserve10% of their rights to receive distributions uponnet profits after income tax, as determined in accordance with the Company’s liquidation prior to a Business Combination with respectPRC accounting rules and regulations. Appropriation to the Insider Shares. Furthermore, all Insiders have agreed that the Insider Warrants will not be sold or transferred until 30 days afterstatutory reserve by the Company has completed its initial Business Combination.Note 4 — Investments Held in Trust
Substantially allis based on profit arrived at under PRC accounting standards for business enterprises for each year. The statutory reserves of the net proceeds fromCompany represent the Offering are intendedstatutory reserves of the above-mentioned companies as required under the PRC law.
The profit arrived at must be set off against any accumulated losses sustained by the Company in prior years, before allocation is made to the statutory reserve. Appropriation to the statutory reserve must be generally applied toward the Business Combination. Management agreedmade before distribution of dividends to place the net proceeds from the Offering into the Trust Accountshareholders. The appropriation is required until the earlier of (i) the completion of a Business Combination and (ii) liquidationstatutory reserve reaches50% of the Company. The placing of fundsregistered capital. This statutory reserve is not distributable in the Trust Account may not protect those funds from third party claims against the Company. Although the Company will seek to have all vendors, prospective target businesses or other entities it engages execute agreements with the Company waiving any right in or to any monies held in the Trust Account, there is no guarantee that they will execute such agreements.A totalform of $50,250,000, which includes $47,275,000 of the net proceeds from the Public Offering and $2,975,000 from the private placement, was placed in the Trust Account.
cash dividends.
As of December 31, 2011, investment securities in2013, Pingtan Fishing allocated $2,378,191 of net profits of the Company’s Trust Account consist of $50,255,577 in U.S. government treasury bills (the “T-Bills”) with a maturity of March 1, 2012 and $2,280 of cash. The carrying amount, excluding accrued interest income, gross unrealized holding gains and fair value of held-to-maturity securities atyear ended December 31, 2011 are as follows: | | Amortized Cost | | | Gross Unrealized Gains | | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | | Fair Value | |
Cash | | $ | 2,280 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 2,280 | |
Held-to-Maturity: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
United States Treasury Securities | | | 50,253,297 | | | | 195 | | | | — | | | | 50,253,492 | |
Total Investments Held in Trust | | $ | 50,255,577 | | | $ | 195 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 50,255,772 | |
2013 to the statutory surplus reserves to reach 50% of the registered capital. The Company’s T-Billsregistered capital of Pingtan Fishing is RMB80 million in statutory record including RMB29.5 million of capital injection by fishing vessels from related parties. According to SAB Topic 5G, this SAB requires that the assets be recorded at predecessor's cost and the registered capital of Pingtan Fishing per audit is $6,254,178 (RMB50.5 million). Pingtan Guansheng, Pingtan Dingxin, Pingtan Duoying and Pingtan Ruiying had an originally maturity datesustained losses since its establishment; therefore no appropriation of September 1, 2011. Upon maturity,net profits to the Company recognized $2,198 in interest income and reinvested the proceeds in six-month T-Bills with a maturity date of Marchstatutory reserves was required.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 18. | RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Service fee | | | | | | | | | | |
Hai Yi Shipping Limited (6) | | $ | 230,903 | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Sale of frozen fish and other marine catches | | | | | | | | | | |
Shenzhen Western Coast Fisherman Pier Co., Ltd. | | $ | 10,372,611 | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
Fuzhou Haifeng Dafu Ocean Fishing Co., Ltd. | | | - | | | 4,574,118 | | | 4,312,036 | |
Fujian Xinnong Ocean Fisheries Development Co., Ltd. | | | - | | | 8,948,761 | | | - | |
Cheng Chen | | | - | | | 185,839 | | | 179,378 | |
Longhua Zhou | | | - | | | 78,902 | | | - | |
Total sales | | $ | 10,372,611 | | $ | 13,787,620 | | $ | 4,491,414 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Purchase of fuel, fishing nets and other on board consumables (1) | | | | | | | | | | |
PT. Avona Mina Lestari | | $ | 14,746,582 | | $ | 10,709,195 | | $ | 3,440,000 | |
PT. Dwikarya Reksa Abadi | | | 757,557 | | | - | | | - | |
Zhiyan Lin | | | 1,126 | | | - | | | - | |
| | | 15,505,265 | | | 10,709,195 | | | 3,440,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Purchase of fuel, fishing nets and other on board consumables paid on behalf | | | | | | | | | | |
Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd. | | | 1,953,494 | | | 3,245,177 | | | 1,037,441 | |
Hong Fa Shipping Limited | | | 16,065,535 | | | - | | | - | |
| | | 18,019,029 | | | 3,245,177 | | | 1,037,441 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Purchase of vessel maintenance service (2) | | | | | | | | | | |
PT. Avona Mina Lestari | | | 2,981,043 | | | 1,901,250 | | | 1,602,900 | |
PT. Dwikarya Reksa Adadi | | | - | | | - | | | 1,675,674 | |
| | | 2,981,043 | | | 1,901,250 | | | 3,278,574 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Purchase of vessel maintenance service paid on behalf | | | | | | | | | | |
Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd. | | | 1,196,983 | | | - | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Purchase of transportation service (2) | | | | | | | | | | |
Haifeng Dafu Enterprise Company Limited | | | 4,122,861 | | | 2,118,321 | | | 237,207 | |
Hai Yi Shipping Limited | | | 1,653,682 | | | 505,154 | | | 352,252 | |
Hong Fa Shipping Limited | | | 3,345,589 | | | 1,016,098 | | | - | |
PT. Avona Mina Lestari | | | 35,149 | | | 573,545 | | | 1,402,616 | |
| | | 9,157,281 | | | 4,213,118 | | | 1,992,075 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 18. | RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (…/Cont’d) |
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cold storage warehouse and office rental | | | | | | | | | | |
Ping Lin (5) | | $ | 13,678 | | $ | 5,545 | | $ | - | |
Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd. (3) | | | - | | | 206,498 | | | 488,861 | |
| | | 13,678 | | | 212,043 | | | 488,861 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Indonesia fleet vessel agency fee payable (4) | | | | | | | | | | |
PT. Avona Mina Lestari | | | 1,042,738 | | | 410,000 | | | 90,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Crewmen compensation paid on behalf | | | | | | | | | | |
Fuzhou Honglong Ocean Fishery Co., Ltd. | | | - | | | 435,569 | | | 155,569 | |
PT. Avona Mina Lestari | | | 1,125,043 | | | 550,000 | | | 153,156 | |
| | | 1,125,043 | | | 985,569 | | | 308,725 | |
Indonesia fishing licenses paid on behalf | | | | | | | | | | |
PT. Avona Mina Lestari | | | 1,748,239 | | | 1,155,774 | | | 305,318 | |
Total purchases and expenses | | $ | 50,789,299 | | $ | 22,832,126 | | $ | 10,940,994 | |
| (1) | Fuel, fishing nets and other consumables were sold to Pingtan Fishing. |
| (2) | Vessel maintenance and transportation services were charged to Pingtan Fishing at prices mutually agreed by the related parties and Pingtan Fishing. |
| (3) | The Company sub-leased office area and cold storage warehouse cells from Hong Long. Pursuant to an Office Space Rental and Staff Dispatch Agreement entered into on January 1, 2010 with a three-year term, annual lease and facilities expenses are RMB1,000,000. Cold storage warehouse cell sub-lease contracts were entered into simultaneously with Hong Long’s lease contracts with the third party lessor, which are renewed every 12-to-16 months. The agreements were terminated onJuly 31, 2012. |
| (4) | Pursuant to a Fishery Cooperative Agreement dated December 31, 2012 with one-year term, entered into between Pingtan Fishing and Avona, Pingtan Fishing is payable to Avona an annual agency fee, calculated at mutually agreed amount of $20,000, for the period from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013, Avona acts as an agent for each of Pingtan Fishing’s fishing vessels. The agreement continues to be executed without disagreement from both parties. |
| (5) | Pingtan Fishing entered into a three-year term office rental lease with Ping Lin on July 31, 2012. The annual lease is $13,678. |
| (6) | On July 1, 2013, the Company entered into a service agreement with Hai Yi Shipping Limited that provided the Company a portion of use of premises located in Hong Kong as office, and clerical and administrative support and consultation services. The agreement will expire on December 31, 2014. |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 19. | CERTAIN RISKS AND CONCENTRATIONS |
As of December 31, 2011,2013 and 2012, a substantial portion part of the Company’s cash included bank deposits in accounts maintained within the PRC where there is currently no rule or regulation in place for obligatory insurance to cover bank deposits in the event of bank failure. However, the Company has recognized $3,378 of interest income relateddoes not experienced any losses in such accounts and believes it is not exposed to any significant risks on its cash in bank accounts.
During the T-Bills with $1,703year ended December 31, 2013, two customers accounted for0% (2012 :13% and 2011 :32%) of the unamortized discount to be recognized overCompany's revenue.
During the remaining lifeyear ended December 31, 2013, related companies Fujian Xiannong Ocean Fisheries Development Co., Ltd and Haifeng Dafu Enterprise Company Limited accounted for0% (2012 :13% and 2011 :0%) and0% (2012 :7% and 2011 :18%) of the securities.Company's revenue respectively.
Note 5 — Related PartyDuring the year ended December 31, 2013, two suppliers accounted for41% (2012 :37% and 2011 :40%) of the Company's purchase.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, related companiesPT. Avona Mina Lestari and PT. Dwikarya Reksa Adadiaccounted for26% (2012 :42% and 2011 :40%) and1% (2012 :0% and 2011 :10%) of the Company's purchase respectively.
| 20. | COMMITEMTS AND CONTINGENCIES |
The Company has employment agreements with certain employees that provided severance payments upon termination of employment under certain circumstances, as defined in the applicable agreements. As of December 31, 2013, the Company’s potential minimum cash obligation to these employees was approximately $10,059.
The Company entered into an unsecured promissory notea service agreement with an officerHai Yi Shipping Limited that provided use of a portion of the premises, and to provide clerical, administrative support and consultation services upon the agreement expires on December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2013, the Company’s potential minimum cash obligation to this agreement was approximately $461,961.
Pursuant to the Shares Purchase Agreement (“the Agreement”) dated December 4, 2013, where the Company exited and sold China Dredging Group to Hong Long (“the buyer”) (Please see Note 2 of consolidated financial statements included in an aggregate principalthis report), the Company is required to indemnify the buyer and the same indemnification responsibility applies to the buyer for the events arising out of any breach of the Agreement or the memorandum of agreement in relation to the sale, purchase and delivery of the vessels for two years until December 3, 2015 and will be liable for the full amount of $200,000.damages that exceed $1,000,000. The note did not bear interest and was payableamount of damage shall be the amount finally determined by a court of competent jurisdiction or appropriate governmental administrative agency, or the amount agreed to upon settlement in accordance with the completionterms of the Offering. $19,900Agreement.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 21. | OPERATING LEASE COMMITMENT |
On July 1, 2013, the Company entered into a service agreement with Hai Yi Shipping Limited that provided use of interest was imputed ona portion of the note at 7%premises, and charged to additional paid-in capital.provide clerical, administrative support and consultation services. The discount was amortized to interest expense on a monthly basis. Interest expenseservice fee is approximately $231,000 for the year ended December 31, 20112013.
Pingtan Fishing leased office from Ping Lin. Pursuant to a rental agreement entered into on July 31, 2012 with three-year term, annual lease is $13,678. The total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases with respect to service fee, cold storage warehouse and the periods from January 18, 2010 (inception) tooffice as of December 31, 20102013 were as follows:
| | | | | Cold storage | | | | | | | |
| | Service fee | | Warehouse | | Office rental | | Total | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
For the years ended December 31, | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
2014 | | $ | 461,961 | | $ | 244,637 | | $ | 13,876 | | $ | 720,474 | |
2015 | | | - | | | - | | | 8,094 | | | 8,094 | |
| | $ | 461,961 | | $ | 244,637 | | $ | 21,970 | | $ | 728,568 | |
The operating lease commitments below include both the related parties commitments and non-related parties commitments. The total future lease payments as of December 31, 2011 was $7,739, $12,161,2013 are summarized as follows:
| | | | | Cold storage | | | | | | | |
| | Service fee | | Warehouse | | Office rental | | Total | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Related parties commitments | | $ | 461,961 | | $ | - | | $ | 21,970 | | $ | 483,931 | |
Non-related parties commitments | | | - | | | 244,637 | | | - | | | 244,637 | |
| | $ | 461,961 | | $ | 244,637 | | $ | 21,970 | | $ | 728,568 | |
Rental expenses and $19,900, respectively. The loan was repaid in full in June 2011 with proceeds from the Offering. The Company has agreed to pay Chum Capital Group Limited (“Chum”) a total of $10,000 per month for office space, utilities, secretarial and general and administrative services for a period commencing June 2, 2011 and ending on the earlier of the consummation by the Company of an initial Business Combination or the Company’s liquidation. Chum Capital Group Limited is an affiliate of Xuesong Song, Jin Shi and Michael W. Zhang, the Company’s executives. Total expenses related to office space, utilities, secretarial and general and administrative servicesservice fee under operating leases for the nine monthsyears ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $70,000.
$827,282, $307,559 and $488,861 respectively, of which $244,581, $212,043 and $488,861 are paid to the related parties (Note 18).
OnJanuary 6, 2014, the Company borrowed a short term loan from Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Fuzhou Dongjiekou Branch, in amount of $1,849,120. The loan is due onMarch 25, 2014.
On OctoberJanuary 20 and 21, 2014, the Company borrowed short term loans from Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Fuzhou Dongjiekou Branch, in amounts of $1,717,040 and $3,501,660 respectively. These loans are due on April 15 2011,and 20, 2014 respectively.
OnJanuary 15, 2014, the Company borrowed a short term loan from The Export-Import Bank of China, Fujian Branch, in amount of approximately $3,303,765. The loan is due onNovember 27, 2023.
| 23. | CONDENSED PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION |
For the purpose of preparing these supplemental condensed parent company (unconsolidated) financial statements, the Company records its investment in subsidiaries under the equity method of accounting as prescribed in ASC Topic 323, “Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures”. Such investment and long-term loans to subsidiaries are presented on the balance sheet as “Investments in subsidiaries” and the income of the subsidiaries is presented as “Equity in income of subsidiaries” on the statements of income.
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 23. | CONDENSED PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (…/Cont’d) |
These supplemental condensed parent company (unconsolidated) financial statements should be read in conjunction with the notes to the Company’s Board of Directors authorized it to advance $390,000 to Chumconsolidated financial statements. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in order to reduce potential losses incurred by Chinese currency appreciation against thefinancial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. dollar. The advance will be used to fund the operating expenses of the Company. During the year ended December 31, 2011 the Company advanced Chum a total of $382,198 and recognized a foreign exchange gain of $632 on the advance. GAAP have been condensed or omitted.
As of December 31,
2011 the Company has a receivable of $382,830 from Chum.Note 6 — Fair Value Measurements
The Company defines fair value as the amount at which an asset (or liability) could be bought (or incurred) or sold (or settled) in a current transaction between willing parties, that is, other than in a forced or liquidation sale. The fair value estimates presented in the table below are based on information available to the Company as of December 31, 2011.
The accounting standard regarding fair value measurements discusses valuation techniques, such as the market approach (comparable market prices), the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). The standard utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. The following is a brief description of those three levels:
| · | Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. |
| · | Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active. |
| · | Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions. |
The Company has no assets or liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis or assets carried at fair value on a non-recurring basis as of December 31, 2011.
As of December 31, 2011, $50,253,492 of the Company’s investment held in trust was invested exclusively in obligations of the U.S. government issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury with the remaining amount held in cash. The Company accounts for these investments as held-to-maturity securities, which are recorded on the balance sheet at amortized cost and classified as either short term or long term based on the contractual maturity. The fair values of the Company’s investments U.S. Treasury bills are determined through observable quoted active markets and the fair value approximates carrying value due to the short term nature. As of December 31, 20112013, there were no unrealized gainsmaterial contingencies, significant provisions for long-term obligations, or losses on investments held in trust and the securities mature in March 2012.
Note 7 — Deferred Offering Costs
Deferred offering costs consist principally of legal and underwriting fees incurred through the balance sheet date that are directly related to the Offering and were charged to shareholders’ equity upon receiptguarantees of the capital raised.
Note 8 — Shareholder’s Equity
Preferred Stock
The Company, is authorized to issue up to 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.001 per share. As of December 31, 2011 no shares of preferred stock were issued or outstanding.
Ordinary Shares
The Company is authorized to issue up to 60,000,000 ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share. The holders of the ordinary shares are entitled to one vote for each ordinary share.
As of December 31, 2010, 1,955,000 ordinary shares were issued and outstanding, of which 225,000 ordinary shares were subject to forfeiture to the extent that the underwriters’ over-allotment option was not exercisedexcept as separately disclosed in full.
In March and May 2011, the Company’s initial shareholders forfeited, and the Company cancelled, 517,500 ordinary shares.
On July 28, 2011,consolidated financial statements, if any.
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
| | December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Cash | | $ | 246,684 | | $ | 3,565,355 | |
Prepaid expenses | | | 2,820 | | | 24,000 | |
Investments in subsidiaries | | | 36,808,242 | | | 396,709,649 | |
Total current assets | | | 37,057,746 | | | 400,299,004 | |
| | | | | | | |
Other assets | | | | | | | |
Prepaid operating license rights | | | 215,381,356 | | | - | |
Total assets | | $ | 252,439,102 | | $ | 400,299,004 | |
| | | | | | | |
Liabilities and equity | | | | | | | |
Current liabilities | | | | | | | |
Accrued liabilities and other payables | | $ | 201,672 | | $ | 18 | |
| | | | | | | |
Shareholders' equity | | | | | | | |
Total shareholders' equity | | | 252,237,430 | | | 400,298,986 | |
Total liabilities and equity | | $ | 252,439,102 | | $ | 400,299,004 | |
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Cost of revenue | | $ | (720,339) | | $ | - | |
General and administrative expenses | | | (2,225,543) | | | (2,366,419) | |
Other income | | | 117 | | | - | |
Equity in income of subsidiaries | | | 100,345,185 | | | 108,161,433 | |
Net income | | $ | 97,399,420 | | $ | 105,795,014 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 23. | CONDENSED PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (…/Cont’d) |
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW
| | Year Ended December 31, | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | |
| | | | | | | |
Net cash used in operating activities | | $ | (2,002,592) | | $ | (2,390,401) | |
Net cash provided by investing activities | | | 123,865,099 | | | - | |
Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities | | | (125,181,178) | | | 5,955,756 | |
Net (decrease)/increase in cash | | | (3,318,671) | | | 3,565,355 | |
Cash at the beginning of the year | | | 3,565,355 | | | - | |
Cash at the end of the year | | $ | 246,684 | | $ | 3,565,355 | |
PINGTAN MARINE ENTERPRISE LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(IN U.S. DOLLARS)
| 24. | QUARTERLY CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) |
The following table shows the Company’s
initial shareholders forfeited, andquarterly consolidated financial data for the
Company cancelled, 187,500 shares in connection with the expirationfour quarters of
the underwriters’ over-allotment option.As of December 31, 2011, 6,250,000 ordinary shares were issued and outstanding. An additional 367,647 founder shares are subject to forfeiture by the Company’s initial shareholders to the extent that certain share price targets are not achieved for any 20 trading days within at least one 30-trading day period within 36 months following the closing of the Company's initial business combination.
As of December 31, 2011, there were 8,966,667 shares of common stock reserved for issuance upon exercise of the Company’s outstanding warrants.
2013:
| | Three Months Ended | |
| | March 31 | | June 30 | | September 30 | | December 31 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Revenue | | $ | 19,669,476 | | $ | 21,362,357 | | $ | 20,609,107 | | $ | 61,026,829 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of revenue | | | (14,292,134) | | | (12,235,475) | | | (12,446,879) | | | (36,785,545) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gross Profit | | | 5,377,342 | | | 9,126,882 | | | 8,162,228 | | | 24,241,284 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating expenses: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Selling and marketing expenses | | | (194,688) | | | (174,046) | | | (362,000) | | | (887,544) | |
General and administrative expenses | | | (301,342) | | | (866,194) | | | (1,178,033) | | | (846,068) | |
Total operating expenses | | | (496,030) | | | (1,040,240) | | | (1,540,033) | | | (1,733,612) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating income | | | 4,881,312 | | | 8,086,642 | | | 6,622,195 | | | 22,507,672 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Other income (expenses) | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investment income | | | - | | | 69,071 | | | 218 | | | 230 | |
Interest income | | | 1,096 | | | 1,460 | | | 2,305 | | | 3,389 | |
Interest expenses | | | (685,377) | | | (710,365) | | | (1,049,040) | | | (1,727,207) | |
Subsidy income | | | 35,387 | | | 205 | | | 168,900 | | | 7,133,781 | |
Sundry income | | | 2,003 | | | 11 | | | 7 | | | 123 | |
Gain/(Loss) on foreign exchange, net | | | 207,984 | | | (428,389) | | | 194,433 | | | 170,712 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Income from continuing operations before income taxes | | | 4,442,405 | | | 7,018,635 | | | 5,939,018 | | | 28,088,700 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Income tax expense | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income from continuing operations | | | 4,442,405 | | | 7,018,635 | | | 5,939,018 | | | 28,088,700 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income from discontinued operations, net of taxes | | | 9,340,136 | | | 17,759,118 | | | 12,362,523 | | | 12,448,885 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Consolidated net income | | | 13,782,541 | | | 24,777,753 | | | 18,301,541 | | | 40,537,585 | |
Note 9 —
CommitmentsThe holders of the Company’s initial shares issued and outstanding as well as the holders of the Insider Warrants (and underlying securities), will be entitled to registration rights. The holders of the majority of these securities are entitled to make up to two demands, excluding short form demands, that the Company register such securities. In addition, the holders have certain “piggy-back” registration rights with respect to registration statements filed subsequent to the consummation of the Company’s initial Business Combination. However, the registration rights agreement provides that the Company will not permit any registration statement filed under the Securities Act to become effective until termination of the applicable lock-up period, which occurs (i) in the case of the founder shares, upon the earlier of (1) one year after the completion of our initial business combination and (2) the date on which the Company consummates a liquidation, merger, share exchange or other similar transaction after its initial Business Combination that results in all of our shareholders having the right to exchange their ordinary shares for cash, securities or other property, and (ii) in the case of the insider warrants and the respective ordinary shares underlying such warrants, 30 days after the completion of the Company’s initial Business Combination. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event the sales price of the Company’s shares reaches or exceeds $12.00 for any 20 trading days within any 30-trading day period during such one year period, 50% of the founder shares shall be released from the lock-up and, if the sales price of our shares reaches or exceeds $15.00 for any 20 trading days within any 30-trading day period during such one year period, the remaining 50% of the founder shares shall be released from the lock-up. In addition, the initial shareholders have agreed not to, subject to certain limited exceptions, transfer, assign or sell any of the insider warrants (including the ordinary shares issuable upon exercise of the insider warrants) until 30 days after the completion of the Company’s initial Business Combination. The Company will bear the expenses incurred in connection with the filing of any such registration statements.