Table of Contents



UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549 

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 


 

(Mark One)

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31,June 30, 2022

or

 

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

 

For the transition period from                    to                    

 

Commission File Number 001-37893

 


 

FLUENT, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Delaware

77-0688094

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

300 Vesey Street, 9th Floor

New York, New York

10282
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)

 

(646) 669-7272

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

 

Not Applicable 

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 


 

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

     

Title of each class

 

Trading

Symbol(s)

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, $0.0005 par value per share

 

FLNT

 

The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC

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    ☐  No

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

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

Large accelerated filer

 

Accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

 

Smaller reporting company

 

 

 

Emerging growth company

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

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

As of May 2,August 4, 2022, the registrant had 79,798,16579,891,976 shares of common stock, $0.0005 par value per share outstanding.



 

 

 

 
 

FLUENT, INC.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR FORM 10-Q

 

 

 

Page

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31,June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021

2

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021

3

 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021

4

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021

5

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

6

Item 2.

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

21

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

2931

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

2931

 

 

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

3032

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

3133

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

3133

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

3133

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

3133

Item 5.

Other Information

3133

Item 6.

Exhibits

3234

Signatures

3335

 

1

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Unless otherwise indicated or required by the context, all references in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to "we," "us," "our," "Fluent," or the "Company," refer to Fluent, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

 

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

 

 

FLUENT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

March 31, 2022

  

December 31, 2021

  

June 30, 2022

  

December 31, 2021

 

ASSETS:

            

Cash and cash equivalents

 $28,944  $34,467  $26,396  $34,467 

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $368 and $313, respectively

 65,023  70,228 

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $373 and $313, respectively

 77,986  70,228 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  2,138   2,505   2,101   2,505 

Total current assets

 96,105  107,200  106,483  107,200 

Property and equipment, net

 1,298  1,457  1,162  1,457 

Operating lease right-of-use assets

 6,369  6,805  5,926  6,805 

Intangible assets, net

 34,938  35,747  32,872  35,747 

Goodwill

 166,180  165,088  110,780  165,088 

Other non-current assets

  1,905   1,885   1,917   1,885 

Total assets

 $306,795  $318,182  $259,140  $318,182 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:

            

Accounts payable

 $12,782  $16,130  $17,043  $16,130 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

 28,823  33,932  34,623  33,932 

Deferred revenue

 701  651  698  651 

Current portion of long-term debt

 5,000  5,000  5,000  5,000 

Current portion of operating lease liability

  2,228   2,227   2,227   2,227 

Total current liabilities

 49,534  57,940  59,591  57,940 

Long-term debt, net

 39,147  40,329  37,964  40,329 

Operating lease liability

 5,213  5,692  4,728  5,692 

Other non-current liabilities

  726   811   739   811 

Total liabilities

  94,620   104,772   103,022   104,772 

Contingencies (Note 10)

                

Shareholders' equity:

            

Preferred stock — $0.0001 par value, 10,000,000 Shares authorized; Shares outstanding — 0 shares for both periods

 0  0 

Common stock — $0.0005 par value, 200,000,000 Shares authorized; Shares issued — 83,983,587 and 83,057,083, respectively; and Shares outstanding — 79,683,435 and 78,965,260, respectively (Note 7)

 42  42 

Preferred stock — $0.0001 par value, 10,000,000 Shares authorized; Shares outstanding — 0 shares for both periods

 0  0 

Common stock — $0.0005 par value, 200,000,000 Shares authorized; Shares issued — 84,146,082 and 83,057,083, respectively; and Shares outstanding — 79,845,930 and 78,965,260, respectively (Note 7)

 42  42 

Treasury stock, at cost — 4,300,152 and 4,091,823 Shares, respectively (Note 7)

 (11,171) (10,723) (11,171) (10,723)

Additional paid-in capital

 420,285  419,059  421,172  419,059 

Accumulated deficit

  (196,981)  (194,968)  (253,925)  (194,968)

Total shareholders' equity

  212,175   213,410   156,118   213,410 

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

 $306,795  $318,182  $259,140  $318,182 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements

 

2

 

 

 

FLUENT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

   

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

Revenue

 $89,063  $70,170  $98,361   $73,378  $187,424  $143,548 

Costs and expenses:

             

Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)

 67,562  50,990  70,026   56,605  137,589  107,595 

Sales and marketing

 3,852  2,961  4,484   3,000  8,336  5,961 

Product development

 4,556  3,434  4,802   3,433  9,357  6,867 

General and administrative

 11,287  11,699  11,688   11,527  22,975  23,226 

Depreciation and amortization

 3,307  3,373  3,332   3,366  6,639  6,739 

Write-off of intangible assets

  128   0 
Goodwill impairment and write-off of intangible assets 55,400   199  55,528  199 

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

  21    0  21  0 

Total costs and expenses

  90,692   72,457   149,753    78,130   240,445   150,587 

Loss from operations

 (1,629) (2,287) (51,392)  (4,752) (53,021) (7,039)

Interest expense, net

 (384) (1,008) (430)  (427) (814) (1,435)

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

  0   (2,964)  0    0   0   (2,964)

Loss before income taxes

 (2,013) (6,259) (51,822)  (5,179) (53,835) (11,438)

Income tax benefit

  0   1 

Income tax (expense) benefit

  

(5,122

)   0   (5,122)  1 

Net loss

 $(2,013) $(6,258) $(56,944)  $(5,179) $(58,957) $(11,437)
     

Basic and diluted loss per share:

             

Basic

 $(0.02) $(0.08) $(0.70)  $(0.06) $(0.73) $(0.14)

Diluted

 $(0.02) $(0.08) $(0.70)  $(0.06) $(0.73) $(0.14)
     

Weighted average number of shares outstanding:

             

Basic

 80,889,052  81,892,593  81,493,821   79,962,275  81,193,107  79,560,643 

Diluted

 80,889,052  81,892,593  81,493,821   79,962,275  81,193,107  79,560,643 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements

 

3

 

 

 

FLUENT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

Common stock

 

Treasury stock

 

Additional paid-in

 

Accumulated

 

Total shareholders'

  

Common stock

 

Treasury stock

 

Additional paid-in

 

Accumulated

 

Total shareholders'

 
 

Shares

  

Amount

  

Shares

  

Amount

  

capital

  

deficit

  

equity

 

Balance at March 31, 2022

 83,983,587 $42 4,300,152 $(11,171) $420,285 $(196,981) $212,175 

Vesting of restricted stock units and issuance of stock under incentive plans

 162,495  0      0    0 

Share-based compensation

   0    0  887  0  887 

Net loss

     0      0   0   (56,944)  (56,944)

Balance at June 30, 2022

  84,146,082  $42   4,300,152  $(11,171) $421,172  $(253,925) $156,118 
 

Shares

  

Amount

  

Shares

  

Amount

  

capital

  

deficit

  

equity

                

Balance at December 31, 2021

 83,057,083  $42  4,091,823  $(10,723) $419,059  $(194,968) $213,410  83,057,083  $42  4,091,823  $(10,723) $419,059  $(194,968) $213,410 

Vesting of restricted stock units and issuance of stock under incentive plans

 926,504  0      211    211  1,088,999 0 0 0 211 0 211 

Increase in treasury stock resulting from shares withheld to cover statutory taxes

     208,329  (448)     (448)   208,329 (448)   (448)

Share-based compensation

   0    0  1,015  0  1,015   0  0 1,902 0 1,902 

Net loss

     0      0   0   (2,013)  (2,013)    0    0  0  (58,957)  (58,957)

Balance at March 31, 2022

  83,983,587  $42   4,300,152  $(11,171) $420,285  $(196,981) $212,175 
               

Balance at June 30, 2022

  84,146,082 $42  4,300,152 $(11,171) $421,172 $(253,925) $156,118 

 

 

 

Common stock

 

Treasury stock

 

Additional paid-in

 

Accumulated

 

Total shareholders'

  

Common stock

 

Treasury stock

 

Additional paid-in

 

Accumulated

 

Total shareholders'

 
 

Shares

  

Amount

  

Shares

  

Amount

  

capital

  

deficit

  

equity

  

Shares

  

Amount

  

Shares

  

Amount

  

capital

  

deficit

  

equity

 

Balance at December 31, 2020

 80,295,141  $40  3,945,867  $(9,999) $411,753  $(184,909) $216,885 

Balance at March 31, 2021

 82,228,823 $41 4,055,011 $(10,623) $413,958 $(191,167) $212,209 

Vesting of restricted stock units and issuance of stock under incentive plans

 1,735,682 1   (1)  0  211,436 0 0 0 136 0 136 

Increase in treasury stock resulting from shares withheld to cover statutory taxes

   109,144 (624)   (624) 0 0 13,821 (43) 0 0 (43)

Exercise of stock options

 198,000    934  934 

Share-based compensation

  0  0 1,272 0 1,272   0  0 1,231 0 1,231 

Net loss

    0    0  0  (6,258)  (6,258)    0    0  0  (5,179)  (5,179)

Balance at March 31, 2021

  82,228,823  $41   4,055,011  $(10,623) $413,958  $(191,167) $212,209 

Balance at June 30, 2021

  82,440,259  $41   4,068,832  $(10,666) $415,325  $(196,346) $208,354 
               

Balance at December 31, 2020

 80,295,141  $40  3,945,867  $(9,999) $411,753  $(184,909) $216,885 

Vesting of restricted stock units and issuance of restricted stock

 1,947,118 1 0 0 135 0 136 

Increase in treasury stock resulting from shares withheld to cover statutory taxes

 0 0 122,965 (667) 0 0 (667)

Exercise of warrants by certain warrant holders (Note 7)

 198,000 0 0 0 934 0 934 

Share-based compensation

  0  0 2,503 0 2,503 

Net Loss

    0    0  0  (11,437)  (11,437)

Balance at June 30, 2021

  82,440,259 $41  4,068,832 $(10,666) $415,325 $(196,346) $208,354 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements

 

4

 

 

 

FLUENT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Amounts in thousands)

(unaudited)

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

            

Net loss

 $(2,013) $(6,258) $(58,957) $(11,437)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:

      

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

      

Depreciation and amortization

 3,307  3,373  6,639  6,739 

Non-cash loan amortization expense

 68  202  135  287 

Share-based compensation expense

 988  1,231  1,851  2,432 

Non-cash loss on early extinguishment of debt

 0 2,198  0 2,198 

Non-cash accrued compensation expense for Put/Call Consideration

 0 1,746  0 2,627 

Goodwill impairment

 55,400 0 

Write-off of intangible assets

 128 0  128 199 

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

 21 0 

Provision for bad debt

 81  (99) 158  98 

Changes in assets and liabilities, net of business acquisition:

      

Provision for income taxes

 5,122 0 

Changes in assets and liabilities, net of business acquisitions:

      

Accounts receivable

 5,127  4,764  (7,913) (3,334)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 451  (868) 488  763 

Other non-current assets

 (13) (196) (25) (258)

Operating lease assets and liabilities, net

 (42) (45) (85) (91)

Accounts payable

 (3,348) 5,792  913  8,672 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

 (6,251) (7,393) (5,573) (9,345)

Deferred revenue

 (174) 562  (177) (151)

Other

  (85)  (32)  (72)  (64)

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

  (1,776)  4,977 

Net cash used in operating activities

  (1,947)  (665)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

            

Capitalized costs included in intangible assets

 (1,071) (816) (2,199) (1,535)

Business acquisition, net of cash acquired

 (971) 0 

Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired

 (971) 0 

Acquisition of property and equipment

  (7)  (20)  

(6

)  (23)

Net cash used in investing activities

  (2,049)  (836)  (3,176)  (1,558)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

            

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of debt financing costs

 0 49,624  0 49,624 

Repayments of long-term debt

 (1,250) (41,736) (2,500) (42,986)

Exercise of stock options

 0 934  0 934 

Prepayment penalty on debt extinguishment

  0   (766)  0   (766)

Taxes paid related to net share settlement of vesting of restricted stock units

 (448) (624) (448) (667)

Proceeds from the issuance of stock

 0 136 

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

  (1,698)  7,432   (2,948)  6,275 

Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

 (5,523) 11,573  (8,071) 4,052 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period

  34,467   22,567   34,467   22,567 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period

 $28,944 $34,140  $26,396 $26,619 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE INFORMATION

            

Cash paid for interest

 $301  $772  $687  $1,097 

Cash paid for income taxes

 $34  $15  $35  $340 

Share-based compensation capitalized in intangible assets

 $27  $41  $51  $71 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES

          

Liability incurred for deferred payment in connection with True North acquisition

 $860 $0 

Contingent consideration in connection with True North acquisition

 $250 $0 

Equity issued in connection with True North acquisition

 $211 $0 

Liability incurred for deferred payment in connection with True North acquisition:

 $860 $0 

Contingent consideration in connection with True North acquisition:

 $250 $0 

Equity issued in connection with True North acquisition:

 $211 $0 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements

 

5

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

1. Summary of significant accounting policies

 

(a) Basis of preparation 

 

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared by Fluent, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company" or "Fluent"), in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("US GAAP") and applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") regarding interim financial reporting. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with US GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to those rules and regulations.

 

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements reflect all normal recurring adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows for the interim periods ended March 31,June 30, 2022and 2021, respectively, but are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations to be anticipated for any future interim periods or for the full year ending December 31, 2022.

 

From time to time, the Company may enter into relationships or investments with other entities, and, in certain instances, the entity in which the Company has a relationship or investment may qualify as a variable interest entity (“VIE”). The Company consolidates a VIE in its financial statements if the Company is deemed to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE. The primary beneficiary is the party that has the power to direct activities that most significantly impact the operations of the VIE and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. From April 1, 2020 through August 31, 2021, the Company had included Winopoly, LLC ("Winopoly") in its consolidated financial statements as a VIE (as further discussed in Note 11Business acquisition and Note 12, Variable Interest Entity). Beginning September 1, 2021, Winopoly ishas been a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.Company since September 1, 2021.

 

The information included in this quarterly reportQuarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 ("2021 Form 10-K") filed with the SEC on March 9, 2021. 2022. The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2021 included herein was derived from the audited financial statements as of that date included in the 2021 Form 10-K.

 

Principles of consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries. All significant transactions among the Company and its subsidiaries have been eliminated upon consolidation.

 

(b) Recently issued and adopted accounting standards

 

In January 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Updates ("ASU") No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses ("Topic 326"), and additional changes, modifications, clarifications or interpretations thereafter, which require a reporting entity to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, and present assets held at amortized cost and available-for-sale debt securities at the amounts expected to be collected. The new guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2022, and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform: Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting ("Topic 848"), which provides optional guidance to ease the potential burden in accounting for the discontinuation of a reference rate such as LIBOR, formerly known as the London Interbank Offered Rate, because of reference rate reform. The ASU is effective for all entities as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance on its consolidated financial statements, and it does not anticipate havingthat such adoption will have a material impact.impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

6

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

(c) Revenue recognition

 

On January 1, 2018, we adopted and started applying the practical expedient offered under FASB Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC"), Revenue from Contracts with Customers, ("Topic 606"), which permits, under ASC 606-10-55-18 revenue to be recognized when control of goods or services is transferred to customers, in amounts that reflect the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. The Company's performance obligation is typically to (a) deliver data records, based on predefined qualifying characteristics specified by the customer, (b) generate conversions, based on predefined user actions (for example, a click, a registration or the installation of an app) and subject to certain qualifying characteristics specified by the customer, (c) verify user interest or transfer calls to advertiser clients as a part of the contact center operation, or (d) deliver media spend as a part of the business of AdParlor, LLC, business.a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.

 

If a customer pays consideration before the Company's performance obligations are satisfied, such amounts are classified as deferred revenue on the consolidated balance sheets. As of  March 31,June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the balance of deferred revenue was  $701$698 and $651, respectively. The majority of the deferred revenue balance as of  December 31, 2021 was recognized into revenue during the first quarter of 2022.

 

When there is a delay between the period in which revenue is recognized and when a customer invoice is issued, revenue is recognized, and the related amounts are recorded as unbilled revenue within accounts receivable on the consolidated balance sheets. As of March 31,June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, unbilled revenue included in accounts receivable was $29,958$31,804 and $31,842, respectively. In line with industry practice, the unbilled revenue balance is recorded based on the Company's internally tracked conversions, net of estimated variances between this amount and the amount tracked and subsequently confirmed by customers. Substantially all amounts included within the unbilled revenue balance are invoiced to customers within the month directly following the period of service. Historical estimates related to unbilled revenue have not been materially different from actual revenue billed.

 

(d) Use of estimates

 

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with US GAAP requires the Company’s management to make estimates and assumptions relating to the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the allowance for doubtful accounts, useful lives of intangible assets, recoverability of the carrying amounts of goodwill and intangible assets, the portion of revenue subject to estimates for variances between internally-tracked conversions and those confirmed by the customer, purchase accounting, the put/call consideration, consolidation of variable interest entity, accruals for contingencies and allowance for deferred tax assets. These estimates are often based on complex judgments and assumptions that management believes to be reasonable but are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

 

(e) Fair value

The fair value of the Company’s cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate their carrying values because of the short-term nature of these instruments.

As of June 30, 2022, the fair value of long-term debt is considered to approximate its carrying value. The fair value assessment represents a Level 2 measurement.

The fair value of certain long-lived non-financial assets and liabilities may be required to be measured on a nonrecurring basis in certain circumstances, including when there is evidence of impairment. As of June 30, 2022, certain non-financial assets have been measured at fair value subsequent to their initial recognition. The Company determined the estimated fair value to be Level 3, as certain inputs used to determine fair value are unobservable, see Note 4,Goodwill, for further discussion of the impairment charge.

7

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

2. Loss per share

 

Basic loss per share is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, in addition to restricted stock units ("RSUs") and restricted common stock that are vested but not delivered. Diluted loss per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock are exercised or converted into common stock and is calculated using the treasury stock method for stock options, restricted stock units, restricted stock, warrants and deferred common stock. Common equivalent shares are excluded from the calculation in loss periods, as their effects would be anti-dilutive.

 

For the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, basic and diluted loss per share was as follows:

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

Numerator:

            

Net loss

 $(2,013) $(6,258) $(56,944) $(5,179) $(58,957) $(11,437)

Denominator:

            

Weighted average shares outstanding

 79,161,367  79,608,513  79,793,240  78,270,386  79,479,049  77,574,295 

Weighted average restricted shares vested not delivered

  1,727,684   2,284,080   1,700,581   1,691,889   1,714,058   1,986,348 

Total basic weighted average shares outstanding

 80,889,052  81,892,593  81,493,821  79,962,275  81,193,107  79,560,643 

Dilutive effect of assumed conversion of restricted stock units

  0   0   0   0   0   0 

Total diluted weighted average shares outstanding

 80,889,052  81,892,593  81,493,821  79,962,275  81,193,107  79,560,643 

Basic and diluted loss per share:

            

Basic

 $(0.02) $(0.08) $(0.70) $(0.06) $(0.73) $(0.14)

Diluted

 $(0.02) $(0.08) $(0.70) $(0.06) $(0.73) $(0.14)

 

Based upon the exercise prices toprice and the average stock pricesprice for the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, certain stock equivalents, including stock options and warrants, have been excluded from diluted weighted average share calculations due to their anti-dilutive nature.

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

Restricted stock units

 1,985,611  3,042,873  1,875,000  2,843,570  1,875,000  2,843,570 

Stock options

 2,139,000  2,204,000  2,139,000  2,204,000  2,139,000  2,204,000 

Warrants

  833,333   833,333   0   833,333   0   833,333 

Total anti-dilutive securities

  4,957,944   6,080,206   4,014,000   5,880,903   4,014,000   5,880,903 

 

8

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

3. Intangible assets, net

 

Intangible assets, net, other than goodwill, consist of the following: 

 

 

Amortization period (in years)

  

March 31, 2022

  

December 31, 2021

  

Amortization period (in years)

  

June 30, 2022

  

December 31, 2021

 

Gross amount:

              

Software developed for internal use

 3  $10,603   9,552  3  $11,757   9,552 

Acquired proprietary technology

 3-5  15,824  14,844  3-5  15,824  14,844 

Customer relationships

 5-10  38,068  37,886  5-10  38,068  37,886 

Trade names

 4-20  16,657  16,657  4-20  16,657  16,657 

Domain names

 20  195  191  20  195  191 

Databases

 5-10  31,292  31,292  5-10  31,292  31,292 

Non-competition agreements

 2-5   1,768   1,768  2-5   1,768   1,768 

Total gross amount

      114,407   112,190       115,561   112,190 

Accumulated amortization:

              

Software developed for internal use

    (5,864) (5,263)    (6,546) (5,263)

Acquired proprietary technology

    (13,571) (13,402)    (13,851) (13,402)

Customer relationships

    (31,317) (29,948)    (32,685) (29,948)

Trade names

    (5,368) (5,145)    (5,592) (5,145)

Domain names

    (60) (58)    (63) (58)

Databases

    (21,521) (20,859)    (22,184) (20,859)

Non-competition agreements

     (1,768)  (1,768)     (1,768)  (1,768)

Total accumulated amortization

      (79,469)  (76,443)      (82,689)  (76,443)

Net intangible assets:

              

Software developed for internal use

    4,739  4,289     5,211  4,289 

Acquired proprietary technology

    2,253  1,442     1,973  1,442 

Customer relationships

    6,751  7,938     5,383  7,938 

Trade names

    11,289  11,512     11,065  11,512 

Domain names

    135  133     132  133 

Databases

     9,771   10,433       9,108   10,433 

Total intangible assets, net

     $34,938  $35,747      $32,872  $35,747 

 

The gross amounts associated with software developed for internal use primarily representrepresents the capitalized costs of internally developed software. The amounts relating to acquired proprietary technology, customer relationships, trade names, domain names, databases and non-competition agreements primarily represent the fair values of intangible assets acquired as a result of the acquisition of Fluent, LLC, effective December 8, 2015 (the "Fluent LLC Acquisition"), the acquisition of Q Interactive, LLC, effective June 8, 2016 (the "Q Interactive Acquisition"), the acquisition of substantially all the assets of AdParlor, LLC. and certain of its affiliates, effective July 1, 2019 (the "AdParlor Acquisition"), the acquisition of a 50% interest in Winopoly (the "Initial Winopoly Acquisition"), effective April 1, 2020 (see Note 11Business acquisition), and the acquisition of 100% interest in True North Loyalty, LLC. (the "True North Acquisition"), effective January 1, 2022 (see Note 11, Business acquisition). In connection with the Initial Winopoly Acquisition, the Company recorded 100% equity ownership for GAAP purposes due to Winopoly's status as a VIE for which the Company is a primary beneficiary, so no further intangible assets were acquired in connection with the Full Winopoly Acquisition described in Note 11, Business acquisition.

 

The Company completed its quarterly triggering event assessments forDuring the threesecond months endedquarter of March 31, 2022,and has the Company determined that nothe decline in its publicly traded stock price which resulted in a corresponding decline in its market capitalization constituted a triggering event had occurred requiring impairment assessments forevent. As such, the Company conducted an interim test of the recoverability of its long-lived assets. Based on the results of this recoverability test, which measured the Company's projected undiscounted cash flows as compared to the carrying value of the asset group, the Company determined that, as of June 30, 2022, its long-lived assets were not impaired. The Company believes that the assumptions utilized in this interim impairment testing, including the estimation of future cash flows, were reasonable. Future tests may indicate impairment if actual future cash flows or other factors differ from the assumptions used in the Company's interim impairment test at June 30, 2022. 

 

9

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

Amortization expense of $3,141 $3,218and $3,177$3,169 for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and $6,359and $6,346, for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, is included in depreciation and amortization expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. As of March 31,June 30, 2022, intangible assets with a carrying amount of $968,$1,116, included in the gross amount of software developed for internal use, have not commenced amortization, as they are not ready for their intended use.

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022, estimated amortization expense related to the Company's intangible assets for the remainder of 2022 and through 2027 and thereafter are as follows:

 

Year

 

March 31, 2022

  

June 30, 2022

 

Remainder of 2022

 $7,828  $5,453 

2023

 6,608  6,719 

2024

 6,459  6,615 

2025

 5,033  5,301 

2026

 1,450  1,385 

2027 and thereafter

  7,560   7,399 

Total

 $34,938  $32,872 

 

 

4. Goodwill

 

Goodwill represents the consideration paid in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in a business combination. As of March 31,June 30, 2022,, the total balance of goodwillgoodwill was $166,180, an increase$110,780, a decrease of $1,092$54,308 from December 31, 2021, as a result of a non-cash impairment charge of $55,400 partially offset by $1,092 attributable to the True North Acquisition (see Note (Note 11Business acquisition).The balance also relates toincludes goodwill from the acquisition of Interactive Data, LLC, the Fluent LLC Acquisition, the Q Interactive Acquisition, the AdParlor Acquisition, and the Initial Winopoly Acquisition (see Note (Note 11Business acquisition). In connection with the Initial Winopoly Acquisition, the Company recorded 100% equity ownership for GAAP purposes due to Winopoly's status as aVIEa VIE for which the Company is a primary beneficiary, so no further goodwill was acquired in connection with the Full Winopoly Acquisition described in Note 11, Business acquisition acquisition.

 

In accordance with ASC 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other, goodwill is testedassessed at least annually for impairment, or when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable, by assessing qualitative factors or performing a quantitative analysis in determining whether it is more likely than not that its fair value exceeds the carrying value. The measurement date of the Company's annual goodwill impairment test is October 1.

 

TheDuring the second quarter of 2022, the Company completed its quarterly triggering event assessments fordetermined that thethree months ended March 31, 2022 and determined no triggering event had occurred that would require interim impairment assessments for its remaining goodwill. However, if there is a reduction in operating results or a decline in the market value of its publicly-traded stock, which resulted in a corresponding decline in its market capitalization, constituted a triggering event. The Company conducted an interim test of the fair value of the Fluent reporting unit's goodwill for potential impairment as of June 30, 2022. The Company considered a combination of income and market approaches to determine the fair value of the Fluent reporting unit. The Company determined that a market-based approach, which considered the Company’s implied market multiple applied to management’s forecast and further adjusted for a control premium, provided the best indication of fair value of the Fluent reporting unit. The results of this could resultmarket-based approach indicated that its carrying value exceeded its fair value by 27%. The Company therefore concluded that the Fluent reporting unit’s goodwill of $162.0 million was impaired and recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $55.4 million.

The Company believes that the assumptions utilized in futureits interim impairment charges.testing, including forecasted cash flows, market multiples and control premiums, are reasonable.

  

Fluent

  

All Other

  

Total

 

Balance as of December 31, 2021

 $160,922  $4,166  $165,088 
True North Acquisition   1,092   0   1,092 

Fluent goodwill impairment

  (55,400)  0   (55,400)

Balance as of June 30, 2022

 $106,614  $4,166  $110,780 

 

 

5. Long-term debt,Debt, net

 

Long-term debt, net of unamortized discount and financing costs, related to the Refinanced Term Loan and the New Credit Facility Term Loan and Note Payable (each as defined below) consisted of the following:

 

 

March 31, 2022

  

December 31, 2021

  

June 30, 2022

  

December 31, 2021

 

New Credit Facility Term Loan due 2026 (less unamortized discount and financing costs of $853 and $921, respectively)

 $44,147 $45,329 

New Credit Facility Term Loan due 2026 (less unamortized discount and financing costs of $786 and $921, respectively)

 $42,964 $45,329 

Less: Current portion of long-term debt

  (5,000)  (5,000)  (5,000)  (5,000)

Long-term debt, net (non-current)

 $39,147 $40,329  $37,964 $40,329 

 

10

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

Refinanced Term Loan

 

On March 31, 2021, Fluent, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company redeemed in full $38,318 in the aggregate principal amount of its priora term loan entered into on December 8, 2015 and due March 26, 2023 (the "Refinanced Term Loan"), prior to maturity, resulting in a loss of $2,964 as athe cost of early extinguishment of the debt, $766 of which was a cash payment.

 

New Credit Facility

 

On March 31, 2021, Fluent, LLC entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) by and among, Fluent, LLC,with certain subsidiaries of Fluent, LLC as guarantors, and Citizens Bank, N.A. as administrative agent, lead arranger and bookrunner, BankUnited, N.A. and Silicon Valley Bank.bookrunner. The Credit Agreement provides for a term loan in the aggregate principal amount of $50,000 funded on the closing date (the “Term Loan”), along with an undrawn revolving credit facility of up to $15,000 (the "Revolving Loans," and together with the Term Loan, the "New Credit Facility").

 

The proceeds of the Term Loan were used to repay all outstanding amounts due under the Refinanced Term Loan, including transaction fees and expenses, and for working capital and other general corporate purposes.

 

Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate per annum equal to an applicable margin, plus, at the Company's option, either a base rate or a LIBOR rate (subject to a floor of 0.25%). The applicable margin is between 0.75% and 1.75% for base rate borrowings and 1.75% and 2.75% for LIBOR rate borrowings, depending upon the Company's consolidated leverage ratio. The opening interest rate of the New Credit Facility was 2.50% (LIBOR + 2.25%) and, which increased to 3.92% (LIBOR + 2.25%) as of March 2022, June 30, 2022.the interest rate increased to 2.75% (LIBOR + 2.50%)

 

Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the assets of Fluent, LLC and, subject to certain exclusions, each of its existing and future U.S. subsidiaries. Such assets include, subject to certain limitations, the equity interests of each of the existing and future direct and indirect U.S. subsidiaries of Fluent, LLC.

 

The Credit Agreement contains negative covenants that, among other things, limit Fluent, LLC's ability to: incur indebtedness; grant liens on its assets; enter into certain investments; consummate fundamental change transactions; engage in mergers or acquisitions or dispose of assets; enter into certain transactions with affiliates; make changes to its fiscal year; enter into certain restrictive agreements; and make certain restricted payments (including for dividends and stock repurchases, which are generally prohibited except in a few circumstances and/or up to specified amounts). Each of these limitations are subject to various conditions.

 

The Credit Agreement matures on March 31, 2026 and interest is payable monthly. Scheduled principal amortization of the Term Loan is $1,250 per quarter, which commenced with the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2021. At March 31,June 30, 2022, the Company was in compliance with all of the financial and other covenants under the Credit Agreement. Effective September 1, 2021, the Credit Agreement was amended to add Winopoly as a party to that agreement following the consummation of the Full Winopoly Acquisition which transaction is more fully described in Note 11, Business acquisitionof this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Effective April 29,2022, the Credit Agreement was amended to add certain additional subsidiaries of Fluent, LLC as parties. 

 

Maturities

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022, scheduled future maturities of the Credit Agreement and Note Payable are as follows:

 

Year

  March 31, 2022   June 30, 2022 

Remainder of 2022

 $3,750  $2,500 

2023

 5,000  5,000 

2024

 5,000  5,000 

2025

  5,000   5,000 

2026

  26,250   26,250 

Total maturities

 $45,000  $43,750 

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

Fair value

As of March 31, 2022, the fair value of long-term debt is considered to approximate its carrying value. The fair value assessment represents a Level 2 measurement.

 

6. Income taxes

 

The Company is subject to federal and state income taxes in the United States. The tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimate of the Company's annual effective tax rate. The Company updates its estimated annual effective tax rate on a quarterly basis and, if the estimate changes, makes a cumulative adjustment.adjustment is made. 

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the Company has recorded a full valuation allowance against net deferred tax assets and intends to continue maintaining a full valuation allowance on these net deferred tax assets until there is sufficient evidence to support the release of all or a portion of these allowances. Release of some or all of the valuation allowance would result in the recognition of certain deferred tax assets and an increase in deferred tax benefit for any period in which such a release may be recorded, however, the exact timing and amount of any valuation allowance release are subject to change, depending upon the level of profitability that the Company is able to achieve and the net deferred tax assets available.

 

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, the Company's effective income tax expense rate of 9.5% primarily represents the projected federal and state cash tax expense expected to result in taxable income for full-year 2022 after consideration of the impact of a non-deductible goodwill impairment against pre-tax year-to-date losses. For the six months ended June 30, 2021,, the Company's effective income tax benefit rate of 0% differed from the statutory federal income tax rate of 21%, with such differences resulting primarily from the application of the full valuation allowance against the Company's deferred tax assets.

 

The Company assesses its income tax positions and records tax benefits for all years subject to examination based upon its evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available as of the reporting dates. For those tax positions where it is more-likely-than-not that a tax benefit will be sustained, the Company has recorded the largest amount of tax benefit with a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For those income tax positions where it is not more-likely-than-not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the Company's financial statements.

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the balance of unrecognized tax benefits was $1,480. The unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would result in an increase to net operating losses that would be subject to a valuation allowance and, accordingly, result in no impact to the Company’s annual effective tax rate. As of March 31,June 30, 2022, the Company has not accrued any interest or penalties with respect to its uncertain tax positions.

 

The Company does not anticipate a significant increase or reduction in unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months.

 

 

7. Common stock, treasury stock and warrants

 

Common stock

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the number of issued shares of common stock was 83,983,58784,146,082 and 83,057,083, respectively, which included shares of treasury stock of 4,300,152 and 4,091,823, respectively.

 

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, the change in the number of issued shares of common stock was the result of an aggregate 926,5041,088,999 shares of common stock issued upon vesting of RSUs, including 208,329 shares of common stock withheld to cover statutory taxes upon such vesting, which are reflected in treasury stock, as discussed below.  

 

Treasury stock

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the Company held shares of treasury stock of 4,300,152 and 4,091,823, respectively with a cost of $11,171 and $10,723, respectively.

 

12

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

The Company's share-based incentive plans allow employees the option to either make cash payment or forfeit shares of common stock upon vesting to satisfy federal and state statutory tax withholding obligations associated with equity awards. The forfeited shares of common stock may be taken into treasury stock by the Company or sold on the open market. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, 208,329 shares of common stock were withheld to cover statutory taxes owed by certain employees for this purpose, all of which were taken into treasury stock. See Note 8, Share-based compensation. 

 

Warrants

 

As of March 31, 2022, and December 31, 2021,there were outstanding warrants to purchase an aggregate of 833,333 shares of common stock were outstanding with exerciseat prices ranging from $3.75 to $6.00 per share. On May 22, 2022, the warrants expired, unexercised. 

 

On July 9, 2018 the Company entered into the First Amendments (the "First Amendments") to the Amendments to Warrants and Agreements to Exercise ("Amended Whitehorse Warrants") with (i) H.I.G. Whitehorse SMA ABF, L.P. regarding 46,667 warrants to purchase common stock of the Company, par value $0.0005 per share, at an exercise price of $3.00 per share; (ii) H.I.G. Whitehorse SMA Holdings I, LLC regarding 66,666 warrants to purchase common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $3.00 per share; and (iii) Whitehorse Finance, Inc. regarding 186,667 warrants to purchase common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $3.00 per share. In November 2017, the Amended Whitehorse Warrants were exercised, and the Company issued an aggregate of 300,000 shares of common stock of the Company (the "Warrant Shares") to the warrant holders. Pursuant to the First Amendments, the warrant holders had the right, but not the obligation, to require the Company to purchase from these warrant holders the 300,000 Warrant Shares at $3.8334 per share (the "Put Right"), which could be exercised during the period commencing January 1, 2019 and ending December 15, 2019. On December 6, 2019, the Company entered into the Second Amendments to the Amended Whitehorse Warrants, pursuant to which the expiration of the Put Right was extended from December 15, 2019 to January 31, 2020. On January 31, 2020, the holders of the Amended Whitehorse Warrants exercised the Put Right, requiring the Company to purchase from the warrant holders the 300,000 Warrant Shares for an aggregate of $1,150. The Company funded such purchase with cash on hand.

 

 

8. Share-based compensation

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022, the Company maintainsmaintained two share-based incentive plans: the Cogint, Inc. 2015 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2015 Plan") and the Fluent, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2018 Plan") which, combined, authorize the issuance of 21,468,34421,484,593 shares of common stock. AsOn June 8, 2022 (the "Effective Date"), the stockholders of the Company approved the Fluent, Inc. March 31, 2022, there were Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan (the "2022 Plan"). The 2022 Plan has 10,909,251 shares of common stock reserved for issuance including 909,251 shares of common stock available for additional grants pursuantthat were carried over from the 2018 Plan. No further awards may be issued under the 2015 Plan or the 2018 Plan (together, the "Prior Plans"). All awards under the Prior Plans that were outstanding as of the Effective Date will continue to be governed by the Company's equity plans.terms, conditions and procedures set forth in the Prior Plans and any applicable award agreement. The primary purpose of the plans is to attract, retain, reward, and motivate certain individuals by providing them with opportunities to acquire or increase their ownership interests in the Company.

 

13

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

Stock options

 

The Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors approved the grant of stock options to certain Company executives, which were issued on February 1, 2019, December 20, 2019, March 1, 2020, and March 1, 2021, respectively, under the 2018 Plan. Subject to continuing service, 50% of the shares subject to these stock options will vest if the Company's stock price remains above 125.00%, 133.33%, 133.33% and 133.33%, respectively, of the exercise price for twenty consecutive trading days, and the remaining 50% of the shares subject to these stock options will vest if the Company's stock price remains above 156.25%, 177.78%, 177.78% and 177.78%, respectively, of the exercise price for twenty consecutive trading days; provided, that no shares will vest prior to the first anniversary of the grant date. As of March 31,June 30, 2022, the first condition for the stock options issued on February 1, 2019, December 20, 2019 and March 1, 2020 had been met and the second condition for the stock options issued on December 20, 2019 and March 1, 2020 had been met. Any shares that remain unvested as of the fifth anniversary of the grant date will vest in full on such date. The fair value of the stock options granted was estimated at the trading day before the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The key assumptions utilized to calculate the grant-date fair values for these awards are summarized below:

 

Issuance Date

 

February 1, 2019

  

December 20, 2019

  

March 1, 2020

  

March 1, 2021

 

Fair value lower range

 $2.81  $1.58  $1.46  $4.34 

Fair value higher range

 $2.86  $1.61  $1.49  $4.43 

Exercise price

 $4.72  $2.56  $2.33  $6.33 

Expected term (in years)

  1.0 - 1.3   1.0 - 1.6   1.0 - 1.5   1.0 - 1.3 

Expected volatility

  65%  70%  70%  80%

Dividend yield

  %  %  %  %

Risk-free rate

  2.61%  1.85%  1.05%  1.18%

 

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, details of stock option activity were as follows:

 

 

Number of options

  

Weighted average exercise price per share

  

Weighted average remaining contractual term (in years)

  

Aggregate intrinsic value

  

Number of options

  

Weighted average exercise price per share

  

Weighted average remaining contractual term (in years)

  

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

Outstanding as of December 31, 2021

 

2,204,000

   

$ 4.41

   

7.1

   

$ —

  2,204,000  $4.41  7.1  $0 

Granted

 

   

   

  0

         

Exercised

 

 

  

 

         

Expired

 

(65,000)

 

1.10

  

 

   (65,000) 1.10     

Outstanding as of March 31, 2022

  

2,139,000

   

$ 4.37

   

7.1

   0

$ —

 

Options exercisable as of March 31, 2022

  

1,242,000

   

$ 3.98

   

7.1

   

$ —

 

Outstanding as of June 30, 2022

  2,139,000  $4.37  6.8

 

 $0 

Options exercisable as of June 30, 2022

  1,242,000  $3.98  

6.8

  $ 

 

The aggregate intrinsic value amounts in the table above represent the difference between the closing price of the Company's common stock at the end of the reporting period and the corresponding exercise prices, multiplied by the number of in-the-money stock options as of the same date.

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, the unvested balance of options was as follows:

 

 

Number of options

  

Weighted average exercise price per share

  

Weighted average remaining contractual term (in years)

  

Number of options

  

Weighted average exercise price per share

  

Weighted average remaining contractual term (in years)

 

Unvested as of December 31, 2021

 897,000  $4.91  7.3  897,000  $4.91  7.3 

Granted

 0   0    0   0   

Vested

  0       0     

Unvested as of March 31, 2022

  897,000  $4.91  7.1 

Unvested as of June 30, 2022

  897,000  $4.91  6.8 

 

Compensation expense recognized for stock options of $105$20 and $167$123 for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and $125and$290 for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, was recorded in sales and marketing, product development and general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. As of March 31,June 30, 2022, there was $20 of unrecognized share-based compensation with respect to outstanding stock options.

 

Restricted stock units and restricted stock

 

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, details of unvested RSU and restricted stock activity were as follows:

 

 

Number of units

  

Weighted average grant-date fair value

  

Number of units

  

Weighted average grant-date fair value

 

Unvested as of December 31, 2021

 3,111,321  $8.03  3,111,321  $8.03 

Granted

 100,000  $2.11  200,000  $1.89 

Vested and delivered

 (718,175) $4.16  (880,670) $3.85 

Withheld as treasury stock (1)

 (208,329) $4.56  (208,329) $4.56 

Vested not delivered (2)

 (45,731) $3.42  (17,206) $3.35 

Forfeited

  (253,475) $3.75   (330,116) $3.72 

Unvested as of March 31, 2022

  1,985,611  $10.15 

Unvested as of June 30, 2022

  1,875,000  $10.53 

 

(1)

As discussed in Note 7, Common stock, treasury stock and warrants, the increase in treasury stock was due to shares withheld to cover statutory withholding taxes upon the delivery of shares following vesting of RSUs. As of March 31,June 30, 2022, there were 4,300,152outstanding shares of treasury stock.

(2)

Vested not delivered represents vested RSUs with delivery deferred to a future time. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, there was a net increase of 45,731 17,206shares included in the vested not delivered balance as a result of the timing of delivery of certain shares. As of March 31,June 30, 20221,737,3971,708,872 outstanding RSUs were vested not delivered.

 

Compensation expense recognized for RSUs and restricted stock of $910$867 and $1,105$1,108 for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and $1,777and$2,213for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, was recorded in sales and marketing, product development and general and administrative in the consolidated statements of operations, and intangible assets, net in the consolidated balance sheets. The fair value of the RSUs and restricted stock was estimated using the closing prices of the Company's common stock on the dates of grant.

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022, unrecognized share-based compensation expense associated with the granted RSUs and stock options amounted to $6,089,$5,109, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.81.6 years.

 

15

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

For the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, share-based compensation for the Company's stock options, RSU's,RSUs, common stock and restricted stock awards were allocated to the following accounts in the consolidated financial statements:

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
�� 

2022

  

2021

 
 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

Sales and marketing

 $170  $163  $143  $209  $313  $372 

Product development

 160  268  98  233  258  501 

General and administrative

  658   800   622   759   1,280   1,559 

Share-based compensation expense

 988  1,231  863  1,201  1,851  2,432 

Capitalized in intangible assets

  27   41   24   30   51   71 

Total share-based compensation

 $1,015  $1,272  $887  $1,231  $1,902  $2,503 

 

 

9. Segment information

 

The Company identifies operating segments as components of an entity for which discrete financial information is available and is regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) in making decisions regarding resource allocation and performance assessment. The profitability measure employed by CODM is earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"). As of March 31,June 30, 2022, the Company has 2 operating segments and 2 corresponding reporting units, “Fluent” and “All Other,” and 1 reportable segment. “All Other” represents the operating results of AdParlor, LLC, and is included for purposes of reconciliation of the respective balances below to the consolidated financial statements. “Fluent,” for the purposes of segment reporting, represents the consolidated operating results of the Company excluding “All Other.”

 

Summarized financial information concerning the Company's segments isfor the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 are shown in the following tables below:

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

Fluent segment revenue:

            

United States

 $60,659  $58,252  $54,684  $59,306  $115,343  $117,558 

International

  25,375   9,290   41,258  $10,693   66,633   19,983 

Fluent segment revenue

 $86,034  $67,542  $95,942  $69,999  $181,976  $137,541 

All Other segment revenue:

            

United States

 $2,989  $2,597  $2,387  $3,338  $5,376  $5,935 

International

  40   31   32   41   72   72 

All Other segment revenue

 $3,029  $2,628  $2,419  $3,379  $5,448  $6,007 

Segment EBITDA

            

Fluent segment EBITDA

 $1,921  $1,410  $(48,168) $(1,582) $(46,247) $(172)

All Other segment EBITDA

  (243)  (324)  108   196   (135)  (128)

Total EBITDA

 1,678  1,086  (48,060) (1,386) (46,382) (300)

Depreciation and amortization

  3,307   3,373   3,332   3,366   6,639   6,739 

Total loss from operations

 $(1,629) $(2,287) $(51,392) $(4,752) $(53,021) $(7,039)

 

 

March 31,

  

December 31,

  

June 30,

  

December 31,

 
 2022 2021  2022 2021 

Total assets:

            

Fluent

 $290,311  $297,768  $241,703  $297,768 

All Other

  16,484   20,414   17,437   20,414 

Total assets

 $306,795  $318,182

 

 $259,140  $318,182

 

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022, long-lived assets are all located in the United States.

 

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, the Company identified an international customer within the Fluent segment with revenue in the amount of $13,077 $40,635which represents 14.7%22% of consolidated revenue.

 

 

10. Contingencies

 

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to loss contingencies that cover a range of matters. An estimated loss from a loss contingency, such as a legal proceeding or claim, is accrued if it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. In determining whether a loss should be accrued, the Company evaluates, among other factors, the degree of probability and the ability to reasonably estimate the amount of any such loss.

 

On October 26, 2018, the Company received a subpoena from the New York Attorney General’s Office (“NY AG”) regarding compliance with New York Executive Law § 63(12) and New York General Business Law § 349, as they relate to the collection, use, or disclosure of information from or about consumers or individuals, as such information was submitted to the Federal Communication Commission (“FCC”) in connection with the FCC’s rulemaking proceeding captioned “Restoring Internet Freedom,” WC Docket No. 17-108. On May 6, 2021, the Company and the NY AG executed an Assurance of Discontinuance (the “AOD”) to resolve this matter. The AOD imposed injunctive provisions on the Company’s practices with regard to political advocacy campaigns, most of which the Company had already implemented, and imposed a $3,700 penalty, which was in line with the Company's accrual as of March 31, 2021 and paid in full as of June 30, 2021.

 

On December 13, 2018, the Company received a subpoena from the United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) regarding the same issue. On March 12, 2020, the Company received a subpoena from the Office of the Attorney General of the District of Columbia ("DC AG") regarding the same issue. The Company was responsive and fully cooperated with each ofhas not received any communications from either the DOJ andor the DC AG.AG since the second quarter of 2020. At this time, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of this matter or the significance, if any, to ourthe Company's business, results of operations or financial position.

 

On June 27, 2019, as a part of two sales and use tax audits covering the period from December 1, 2010 to November 30, 2019, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (the “Tax Department”) issued a letter stating its position that revenue derived from certain of the Company’s customer acquisition and list management services are subject to sales tax, as a result of being deemed information services. The Company disputed the Tax Department's position on several grounds, but on January 14 and 15, 2020, the Tax Department issued Statements of Proposed Audit Adjustment totaling $8.2 million, including $2.0 million of interest. The Company formally disagreed with the amount of the Proposed Audit Adjustments and met with the Tax Department on March 4, 2020. During that meeting, the Company informed the Tax Department that a majority of the Proposed Audit Adjustments was attributable to revenue derived from transfers which were either excluded resales or sourced outside of New York and renewed its challenge as to the taxability of its customer acquisition revenue. On July 22 and 31, 2020, the Company received notices of determination from the Tax Department totaling $3.0 million, including $0.7 million of interest. On October 16, 2020, the Company filed challenges to the notices of determination. On March 31, 2022, after a Conciliation Conference, the Company reached a settlement with the Tax Department for $1.7 million.million which was paid on April 1, 2022.

 

On January 28, 2020, the Company received a Civil Investigative Demand from the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) regarding compliance with the Federal Trade Commission Act, 15 U.S.C. §45 or the Telemarketing Sales Rule, 16 C.F.R. Part 310, as they relate to the advertising, marketing, promotion, offering for sale, or sale of rewards and other products, the transmission of commercial text messages, and/or consumer privacy or data security. The Company has been responsive and is fully cooperating with the FTC. At this time, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of this matter or the significance, if any, to the Company’s business, results of operations or financial position.

 

17

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

On October 6, 2020, the Company received notice from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General (“PA OAG”) that it was reviewing the Company’s business practices for compliance under the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, 73 P.S. § 201-1 et seq. ("PA UTP"); the Telemarketer Registration Act, 73 P.S. § 2241 et. seq.("PA TSR"), and the Telemarketing Sales Rule, 16 C.F.R. 310 et seq ("TSR"). The Company has been responsive and is fully cooperating with the PA OAG. On February 14, 2022, the PA OAG sent a letter in which it asserted that the Company's lead generation practices violate the PA TSR, the PA UTP and the TSR. TheWhile, the Company disputes the PA OAG's assertions and believescontinues to believe that its lead generation practices are compliant.  At this time,compliant with applicable laws, the Company and the PA OAG are negotiating the terms of an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance ("AVC") to resolve the matter. It is uncertain whether a mutually acceptable AVC can be reached and the terms thereof. Consequently, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of this matter or the significance, if any, to the Company’s business, results of operations or financial positionposition.

 

 

11. Business acquisition

 

True North acquisitionAcquisition

 

On January 1, 2022, the Company acquired a 100% membership interest in True North Loyalty, LLC (the "True North Acquisition") for a deemed purchase price of $2,321, which consisted of $1,000 ofin cash at closing, $860 of deferred payments due at both the first and second anniversary of the closing date adjusted for net-working capital, and contingent consideration with a fair value at the closing date of $250, payable in common stock based upon the achievement of specified revenue targets over the five-year period following the completion of the acquisition. The Company also issued 100,000 shares of fully vested stock under the Fluent, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan to the sellers valued at $211. Certain seller parties entered into employment and non-competition agreements with Company in connection with the True North Acquisition. True North Loyalty, LLC is a subscription-based business that utilizes call center operations and other media channels to market recurring revenue services to consumers. In accordance with ASC 805, the Company determined that the True North Acquisition constituted the purchase of a business. For the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2022, the Company incurred transaction-related expenses of$20 $39 and $125 of$59, respectively, and compensation expense related to non-compete agreements in connection with the acquisition of $125 and $250, respectively, which are recorded as part of general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. Assets and revenues of True North Loyalty, LLC totaled 0.7%1% and 1.5%2%, respectively, of the Company's consolidated financial statements atassets and revenues as of and for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022and are included in the Fluent operating segment.

 

On January 1, 2022, it was determined to use the excess earnings method, a variation of the income approach, to amortize: (i) the fair value of the acquired customer relationships related to subscribers of $170 over a period of one year and (ii) the fair value of the acquired customer relationships related to call centers of $1,180, over a period of five years. The amount of the purchase price in excess of the fair value of the net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill in the amount of $1,092 and primarily relates to intangible assets that do not qualify for separate recognition, including assembled workforce and synergies. For tax purposes, the goodwill is not deductible.

 

Below is a summary of the purchase price allocation of the True North acquisition:  
Below is a summary of the purchase price allocation of the True North Acquisition: 
Cash$

29

 $29 
Accounts receivable, net 3 3 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 84 84 
Intangible assets:   
Customer list 182 182 
Developed technology 1,180 1,180 
Goodwill 1,092 1,092 
Other non-current assets 7 7 
Liabilities assumed (256)  (256)
Consideration transferred$2,321 $2,321 
 

Certain fair values may be estimated at the acquisition date pending confirmation or completion of the valuation process. Where provisional values are used in accounting for a business combination, they may be adjusted retrospectively in subsequent periods, not to exceed one year from the acquisition date.

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

Winopoly acquisition

 

On April 1, 2020, the Company acquired, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, a 50% membership interest in Winopoly (the "Initial Winopoly Acquisition") for a deemed purchase price of $2,553, which consisted of $1,553 in cash and contingent consideration with a fair value of $1,000 payable based upon the achievement of specified revenue targets over the eighteen-month period following the completion of the acquisition. As of the first quarter of 2021, theThe initial contingent consideration of $1,000$1,000 had been paid based on specific revenue targets having been met.met in the first quarter of 2021. On May 17, 2021, additional contingent consideration that was not previously deemed to be probable of payment in the amount of $500 was paid based on a specific revenue target having been met. Winopoly is a contact center operation, which serves as a marketplace that matches consumers sourced by Fluent and other third parties with advertiser clients. In accordance with ASC 805, the Company determined that the Initial Winopoly Acquisition constituted the purchase of a business

 

On April 1, 2020, the fair value of the acquired customer relationships of $600, to be amortized over a period of five years, was determined using the excess earnings method, a variation of the income approach, while the fair value of the acquired developed technology of $800, to be amortized over a period of three years, was determined using the cost approach. The amount of the purchase price in excess of the fair value of the net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill in the amount of $1,131 and primarily relates to intangible assets that do not qualify for separate recognition, including assembled workforce and synergies. In connection with the Initial Winopoly Acquisition, the Company had recorded 100% equity ownership for GAAP purposes due to Winopoly's status as VIE for which the Company is a primary beneficiary.

 

In connection with the Initial Winopoly Acquisition, at any time between the fourth and sixth anniversary of the Initial Winopoly Acquisition, the sellers had the ability to exercise a put option to require the Company to acquire the remaining 50% membership interests in Winopoly. During this period, the Company also had the ability to exercise a call option to require the sellers to sell the remaining 50% membership interests in Winopoly to the Company. The purchase price to be paid upon exercise of the put or call option for the remaining 50% membership interests was calculated based on a multiple of 4.0 x EBITDA (as such term is defined in the agreement between the parties), applied to a twelve-month period spanning the five months prior to the month of the put/call closing extending through six months following the month of the put/call closing (the "Put/Call Consideration"). In connection with the exercise of the put/call option, certain of the seller parties would have been required to enter into employment agreements with the Company in order to receive their respective shares of the Put/Call Consideration.

 

On September 1, 2021, the Company acquired the remaining 50% membership interest in Winopoly (the “Full Winopoly Acquisition”) in a negotiated transaction. The consideration was $7,785, which consisted of $3,425 of cash at closing, $2,000 of cash due on January 31, 2022, and $500 of deferred payments due at both the first and second anniversary of the closing. The Company also issued 500,000 shares of fully-vested stock under the Fluent, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan to certain Winopoly personnel valued at $1,360. Certain seller parties entered into employment and non-competition agreements with the Company in connection with the Full Winopoly Acquisition. As a result, the Put/Call Consideration was terminated, partially offsetting the consideration paid in the Full Winopoly Acquisition, resulting in a net expense of $3,201 on the date of the Full Winopoly Acquisition which was recorded as general and administrative and product development expenses. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company incurred transaction-related costs of $28 in connection with the Full Winopoly Acquisition which are also recorded as general and administrative expenses.

Although the sellers maintained an equity interest in Winopoly through August 31, 2021, the Company had deemed this equity interest to be non-substantive in nature, as the sellers would primarily benefit from the Initial Winopoly Acquisition based on periodic distributions of the earnings of Winopoly and the Put/Call Consideration, both of which were dependent on the sellers' continued service. Without providing service, the sellers could benefit from their pro-rata share of the proceeds upon a third-party sale or liquidation of Winopoly; however, such a liquidity event was considered unlikely. Therefore, no non-controlling interest had been previously recognized. Periodic distributions for services rendered were recorded as compensation expense. In addition, the Company had estimated the amount of the Put/Call Consideration, which was accreted over the six-year estimated service period, consisted of the estimated four years until the put/call could be exercised and the additional two-year service requirement.

On September 1, 2021, the Company acquired the remaining 50% membership interest in Winopoly (the “Full Winopoly Acquisition”) in a negotiated transaction. The consideration was $7,785, which consisted of $3,425 of cash at closing, $2,000 of cash due on January 31, 2022, and $500 of deferred payments due at both the first and second anniversary of the closing. The Company also issued 500,000 shares of fully-vested stock under the 2018 Plan to certain Winopoly personnel valued at $1,360. Certain seller parties entered into employment and non-competition agreements with the Company in connection with the Full Winopoly Acquisition. As a result, the Put/Call Consideration was terminated, partially offsetting the consideration paid in the Full Winopoly Acquisition, resulting in a net expense of $3,201 on the date of the Full Winopoly Acquisition which was recorded as general and administrative and product development expenses.

For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company incurred transaction-related costs of $28 in connection with the Full Winopoly Acquisition which are also recorded as general and administrative expenses. For the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2021, compensation expense of $1,746$881 and $2,627 respectively, related to the Put/Call Consideration were recorded in general and administrative on the consolidated statement of operations, which had a corresponding liability in other non-current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. There was 0 corresponding charge for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022.

 

19

 

FLUENT, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

12. Variable Interest Entity

 

The Company determined that, following the Initial Winopoly Acquisition, Winopoly qualified as a VIE for which the Company was athe primary beneficiary (see Note(Note 11, Business acquisition). A VIE is an entity that either (i) has insufficient equity to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support, or (ii) has equity investors who lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest. The primary beneficiary is the party that has the power to direct activities that most significantly impact the operations of the VIE and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. We assess whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE at the inception of the arrangement and at each reporting date.

 

The Company's conclusion that Winopoly was a VIE, and the Company was its primary beneficiary, derived from contractual arrangements that provided the Company with control over certain activities that most significantly impacted its economic performance. These significant activities includedinclude the compliance practices of Winopoly and the Company's provisions of leads that Winopoly used to generate its revenue, which ultimately gave the Company its controlling interest. The Company therefore consolidated Winopoly in its consolidated financial statements from the inception of the Initial Winopoly Acquisition, inclusive of deemed compensation expense to the sellers for services rendered. On September 1, 2021, the Company completed the Full Winopoly Acquisition and Winopoly's status as a VIE terminated (see Note(Note 3, Intangible assets, net, Note 4, Goodwill and Note 11, Business acquisition).

 

 

 

 

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

 

You should read the following discussion in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. ThisIn addition to historical information, this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 ("PSLRA"), Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the "Exchange Act"), about our expectations, beliefs, or intentions regarding our business, financial condition, results of operations, strategies, the outcome of litigation, or prospects. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that these statements do not relate strictly to historical or current matters. Rather, forward-looking statements relate to anticipated or expected events, activities, trends, or results as of the date they are made. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as “anticipate,“believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "project," "will," or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. Because forward-looking statements relate to matters that have not yet occurred, these statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from any future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Many factors could cause our actual activities or results to differ materially from the activities and results anticipated in forward-looking statements. These factors include those contained in this and our other Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as well as the disclosures made in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 filed on March 9, 2022 ("2021 Form 10-K") including without limitation, those discussed in Item 1A. "Risk Factors." in partPart I. of the 2021 Form 10-K, and other filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). We do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements, except as required by law. We intend that all forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbor provisions of PSLRA. These forward-looking statements are only predictions and reflect our views as of the date they are made with respect to future events and financial performance.
 

Overview

 

Fluent, Inc. ("we," "us," "our," "Fluent," or the "Company"), is an industry leader in data-driven digital marketing services. We primarily perform customer acquisition services by operating highly scalable digital marketing campaigns, through which we connect our advertiser clients with consumers they are seeking to reach. We deliver performance-based marketing executions and lead generation data records to our clients, which in 2021 includedincludes over 500 consumer brands, direct marketers, and agencies across a wide range of industries, including Media & Entertainment, Financial Products & Services, Health & Wellness, Retail & Consumer, and Staffing & Recruitment.

 

We attract consumers at scale to our owned digital media properties primarily through promotional offerings and employment opportunities. To register on our sites, consumers provide their names, contact information and opt-in permission to present them with offers on behalf of our clients. Approximately 90% of these users engage with our media on their mobile devices or tablets. Our always-on, real-time capabilities enable users to access our media whenever and wherever they choose.

 

Once users have registered with our sites, we integrateapply our proprietary direct marketing technologies to engage them with surveys and other experiences, through which we learn about their lifestyles, preferences and purchasing histories. Based on thesethe insights gleaned, we serve targeted, relevant offers to them on behalf of our clients. As new users register and engage withon our sites and existing registrants re-engage, we believe the enrichment of our database through the new registrations or re-engagements expands our addressable client base and improves the effectiveness of our performance-based campaigns.

 

Since our inception, we have amassed a large, proprietary database of first-party, self-declared user information and preferences. We have permission to contact the majority of users in our database through multiple channels, such as email, direct mail, telephone, push notifications andor SMS text messaging. We leverage this data in our performance offerings primarily to serve advertisements that we believe will be relevant to our registered users based on the information they provide, and in our lead generation offerings to provide our clients with users' contact information so that our clients may communicate with the users directly. We continue to leverage our existing database into new revenue streams, including utilization-based models, such as programmatic advertising.

 

 

FirstSecond Quarter Financial Summary

 

Three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, compared to three months ended March 31,June 30, 2021:

Revenue increased 27%34% to $89.1$98.4 million, from $70.2compared to $73.4 million.

Net loss was $2.0$56.9 million, or $0.02$0.70 per share, compared to net loss of $6.3$5.2 million or $0.08$0.06 per share.

Gross profit (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) of $21.5was $28.3 million, an increase of 12% over Q169% as compared to the three months ended June 30, 2021, and representing 24.1%29% of revenue for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022

Media margin increased 4%60% to $26.0$32.3 million, from $24.9compared to $20.1 million, representing 29.1%32.8% of revenue for the three months ended in March 31,June 30, 2022

Adjusted EBITDA increased to $4.8$9.4 million representing 9.6% of revenue, based on net loss of $56.9 million, compared to $1.9 million, based on net loss of $2.0 million, from $4.7 million, based on net loss of $6.3$5.2 million.

Adjusted net income was $1.1$0.6 million, or $0.01 per share, compared to adjusted net incomeloss of $0.4$1.9 million, or $0.00$0.02 per share.

Six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to six months ended June 30, 2021:

Revenue increased 31% to $187.4 million, compared to $143.5 million.

Net loss was $59.0 million, or $0.73 per share, compared to net loss of $11.4 million or $0.14 per share.

Gross profit (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) was $49.8 million, an increase of 39% as compared to the six months ended June 30, 2021, and representing 27% of revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2022

Media margin increased 29% to $58.3 million, compared to $45.0 million, representing 31.1% of revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2022

Adjusted EBITDA increased to $14.2 million, representing 7.6% of revenue, based on net loss of $59.0 million,compared to $6.6 million, based on net loss of $11.4 million.

Adjusted net income was $1.6 million, or $0.02 per share, compared to adjusted net loss of $1.6 million, or $0.02 per share.

 

Media margin, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss) are non-GAAP financial measures.  See "Definitions, Reconciliations and Uses of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below.

 

Trends Affecting our Business

 

Development, Acquisition and Retention of High-Quality Targeted Media Traffic

 

Our business depends on identifying and accessing media sources that are of high quality and on our ability to attract targeted users to our media properties. As our business has grown, we have attracted larger and more sophisticated clients to our platform. To further increase our value proposition to clients and to fortify our leadership position in relation to the evolving regulatory landscape of our industry, we commenced a traffic quality initiative (the "Traffic Quality Initiative") in 2020. Our Traffic Quality Initiative curtailed the volume of lower quality affiliate traffic that we source, beginning in the fourth quarter of 2020 and into the year 2021 as we took a strategic course in building high quality traffic. Our strategy of focusing on high quality targeted media traffic continued into the firstsecond quarter of 2022.

 

We believe that significant value can be created by improving the quality of traffic we source to our media properties, through higherincreased user participation rates on our sites, leading to higher conversion rates, resulting in increased monetization, and ultimately increasing revenue and media margin. Media margin, a non-GAAP measure, is the portion of gross profit (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) reflecting variable costs paid for media and related expenses and excluding non-media cost of revenue. We have also been pursuing strategic initiatives that enable us to grow revenue with existing user traffic volume, while attracting new users to our media properties. ForDuring the firstsecond quarter of 2022, we continued to see improved monetization of consumer traffic through improved customer relationship management, new streams of traffic and internal capabilities that allow us to re-engage consumers who have registered on our owned media properties. Through these initiatives, our business has become less dependent on traditional, low-quality sources of traffic volume to generate revenue growth.

 

In the first quartersix months of 2022, we increased our spend with major digital media platforms and revised our bidding strategies for affiliate traffic. While these strategies yielded lower margins initially and below our historical levels achieved through affiliate marketing, we intend to optimizebetter optimized our spend for improved profitability in the second quarter 2022 and intend to continue to do so in future periods. The mix and profitability of our media channels, strategies and partners is likely to continue to be dynamic and reflect evolving market dynamics as well as the impact of our Traffic Quality Initiative. Volatility of affiliate supply sources, consolidation of media sources, changes in search engine, email and text message blocking algorithms, and increased competition for available media had made the process of growing our traffic under our evolving quality standards challenging during 2021 and has continued into the first quarter of 2022.2021. As we testevaluate and scale new media channels, strategies, and partners, we may determine that certain sources initially able to provide us profitable quality traffic may not be able to maintain our quality standards over time, and we may need to discontinue, or direct a modification of the practices of, such sources, which could reduce profitability.

 

Seasonality and Cyclicality

 

Our results are subject to fluctuations as a result of seasonality and cyclicality in our and our clients’ businesses. As reflected in historical data reported byOther factors affecting our business may include macroeconomic conditions that impact the Interactive Advertising Bureau, andigital advertising industry, trade association, industry spending on internet advertising has generally declined sequentially in the first quarter of the calendar year compared to the fourth quarter. Similar to the industry overall, some of our clients had lower advertising budgets during the first fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2022. This is different than the fourth quarter, typically characterized by higher advertiser budgets, which can be somewhat offset by seasonal challenges of lower availability and/or higher pricing for some forms of media during the holiday period. However,various client verticals we believe that the breadth of industries in which our clients operate provides us with some insulation from these fluctuations.serve, and general market conditions.

 

 

In addition to variations in budgets from quarter to quarter, certain clients have budgets that start stronger at the beginning of quarterly or monthly periods, may reach limits during such periods and then may have needs to satisfy their performance objectives at the end of such periods. Beyond these budgetary constraints and buying patterns of clients, other factors affecting our business may include macroeconomic conditions affecting the digital media industry and the various client verticals we serve.

COVID-19 Update

 

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic. At this time, our operations have not been significantly impacted by the global economic impact of COVID-19, and we have taken appropriate measures to ensure that we are able to conduct our business remotely without significant disruptions. The economic uncertainty caused by COVID-19 has had varying degrees of impact on certain of our advertiser clients in certain industry verticals over the course of the pandemic. There may continue to be additional shifts in pricing and/or demand among our clients, as the trajectory of the pandemic and future economic outlook remain uncertain.

 

On March 13, 2020, we implemented a company-wide work-from-home policy. On April 1, 2022, we implemented a hybrid approach to have our employees in the office two days a week, but only if employees are comfortable to do so. While we believe we have adapted well to a work-from-home environment, COVID-19 increases the likelihood of certain risks of disruption to our business, such as the incapacity of certain employees or system interruptions, which could lead to diminishment of our regular business operations, technological capacity and cybersecurity capabilities, as well as operational inefficiencies and reputational harm. The same hybrid approach continued into the second quarter of 2022.

 

Please see "Results of OperationsItem 1A. Risk Factors in the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021", for more information or further discussion of the possible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business.

 

Definitions, Reconciliations and Uses of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

 

We report the following non-GAAP measures:

 

Media margin is defined as that portion of gross profit (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) reflecting the variable costs paid for media and related expenses and excluding non-media cost of revenue. Gross profit (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) represents revenue minus cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization). Media margin is also presented as percentage of revenue.

 

Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) income excluding (1) income taxes, (2) interest expense, net, (3) depreciation and amortization, (4) share-based compensation expense, (5) loss on early extinguishment of debt, (6) accrued compensation expense for the Put/Call Consideration, (7) goodwill impairment, (8) write-off of intangible assets, (9) acquisition-related costs, (10) restructuring and other severance costs, and (11) certain litigation and other related costs.

 

Adjusted net income (loss) is defined as net income (loss) income excluding (1) share-based compensation expense, (2) loss on early extinguishment of debt, (3) accrued compensation expense for the Put/Call Consideration, (4) goodwill impairment, (5) write-off of intangible assets, (6) acquisition-related costs, (7) restructuring and other severance costs, and (8) certain litigation and other related costs. Adjusted net income (loss) is also presented on a per share (basic and diluted) basis.

 

Below is a reconciliation of media margin from gross profit (exclusive of depreciation and amortization), for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which we believe is the most directly comparable GAAP measure.

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

Revenue

 $89,063  $70,170  $98,361  $73,378  $187,424  $143,548 

Less: Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)

  67,562   50,990   70,026   56,605   137,589   107,595 

Gross profit (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)

 $21,501  $19,180  $28,335  $16,773  $49,835  $35,953 

Gross profit (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) % of revenue

  24%  27%  29%  23%  27%  25%

Non-media cost of revenue (1)

  4,449   5,690   3,974   3,363   8,423   9,053 

Media margin

 $25,950  $24,870  $32,309  $20,136  $58,258  $45,006 

Media margin % of revenue

  29.1%  35.4%  32.8%  27.4%  31.1%  31.4%

 

(1)

Represents the portion of cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) not attributable to variable costs paid for media and related expenses.

 

 

Below is a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA from net loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which we believe is the most directly comparable GAAP measure:

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

Net loss

 $(2,013) $(6,258) $(56,944) $(5,179) $(58,957) $(11,437)

Income tax expense (benefit)

   (1) 5,122    5,122  (1)

Interest expense, net

 384  1,008  430  427  814  1,435 

Depreciation and amortization

 3,307  3,373  3,332  3,366  6,639  6,739 

Share-based compensation expense

 988  1,231  863  1,201  1,851  2,432 

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

   2,964        2,964 

Accrued compensation expense for Put/Call Consideration

   1,746    881    2,627 

Goodwill impairment

 55,400  55,400  

Write-off of intangible assets

 128      199  128  199 

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

 21  21  

Acquisition-related costs(1)

 558    579  500  1,137  500 

Restructuring and other severance costs

 38 97 38 97 

Certain litigation and other related costs

  1,402   668   596   359   1,998   1,027 

Adjusted EBITDA

 $4,754  $4,731  $9,437  $1,851  $14,191  $6,582 

 

(1)

Includes compensation expense related to non-competition agreements entered into as a result of acquisitions (Note 11)(See Note 11. Business acquisition, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements)

 

Below is a reconciliation of adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted net income (loss) per share from net loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which we believe is the most directly comparable GAAP measure.

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

(In thousands, except share data)

 

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

  

2022

  

2021

 

Net loss

 $(2,013) $(6,258) $(56,944) $(5,179) $(58,957) $(11,437)

Share-based compensation expense

 988  1,231  863  1,201  1,851  2,432 

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

   2,964        2,964 

Accrued compensation expense for Put/Call Consideration

   1,746    881    2,627 

Goodwill impairment

 55,400  55,400  

Write-off of intangible assets

 128      199  128  199 

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

 21  21  

Acquisition-related costs(1)

 558    579  500  1,137  500 

Restructuring and other severance costs

 38 97 38 97 

Certain litigation and other related costs

  1,402   668   596   359   1,998   1,027 

Adjusted net income

 $1,063  $351 

Adjusted net income per share:

    

Adjusted net income (loss)

 $553  $(1,942) $1,616  $(1,591)

Adjusted net income (loss) per share:

        

Basic

 $0.01  $0.00  $0.01  $(0.02) $0.02  $(0.02)

Diluted

 $0.01  $0.00  $0.01  $(0.02) $0.02  $(0.02)

Weighted average number of shares outstanding:

            

Basic

  80,889,052   81,892,593   81,493,821   79,962,275   81,193,107   79,560,643 

Diluted

  80,889,052   84,144,209   81,493,821   79,962,275   81,193,107   79,560,643 

 

(1)

Includes compensation expense related to non-competition agreements entered into as a resultpart of an acquisitions (Note 11)acquisition (See Note 11. Business acquisition, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

 

We present media margin, as a percentage of revenue, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted net income (loss) per share as supplemental measures of our financial and operating performance because we believe they provide useful information to investors. More specifically:

 

Media margin, as defined above, is a measure of the efficiency of the Company’s operating model. We use media margin and the related measure of media margin as a percentage of revenue as primary metrics to measure the financial return on our media and related costs, specifically to measure the degree by which the revenue generated from our digital marketing services exceeds the cost to attract the consumers to whom offers are made through our services. MediaWe use media margin is used extensively by our management to manage our operating performance, including evaluating operational performance against budgeted media margin and understanding the efficiency of our media and related expenditures. We also use media margin for performance evaluations and compensation decisions regarding certain personnel.

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA, as defined above, is another primary metric by which we evaluate the operating performance of our business, on which certain operating expenditures and internal budgets are based and by which, in addition to media margin and other factors, our senior management is compensated. The first three adjustments represent the conventional definition of EBITDA, and the remaining adjustments are items recognized and recorded under GAAP in particular periods but might be viewed as not necessarily coinciding with the underlying business operations for the periods in which they are so recognized and recorded. These adjustments include certain litigation and other related costs associated with legal matters outside the ordinary course of business, including costs and accruals related to the New York State Tax Department, NY AGNew York Attorney General and FTCFederal Trade Commission matters as described below under(See Part II, Item 1 — Legal Proceedings. Items are consideredProceedings). We consider items one-time in nature if they are non-recurring, infrequent or unusual and have not occurred in the past two years or are not expected to recur in the next two years, in accordance with SEC rules. There were no adjustments for one-time items in the periods presented.presented by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Adjusted net income (loss), as defined above, and the related measure of adjusted net income (loss) per share exclude certain items that are recognized and recorded under GAAP in particular periods but might be viewed as not necessarily coinciding with the underlying business operations for the periods in which they are so recognized and recorded. We believe adjusted net income (loss) affords investors a different view of the overall financial performance of the Company thanas compared to adjusted EBITDA and the GAAP measure of net income (loss) income..

 

Media margin, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted net income (loss) per share are non-GAAP financial measures with certain limitations regarding their usefulness. They do not reflect our financial results in accordance with GAAP, as they do not include the impact of certain expenses that are reflected in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. Accordingly, these metrics are not indicative of our overall results or indicators of past or future financial performance. Further, they are not financial measures of profitability and are neither intended to be used as a proxy for the profitability of our business nor to imply profitability. The way we measure media margin, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss) may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies and may not be identical to corresponding measures used in our various agreements.

 

Results of Operations

 

Three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 compared to three months ended March 31,June 30, 2021

 

Revenue. Revenue increased $18.9$25.0 million, or 27%34%, to $89.1$98.4 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, from $70.2compared to $73.4 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2021. The increase was largely attributable to growth in the Rewards business, driven by expanding media footprint in both U.S and international markets, increased client demand in the Fluent Sales Solution business unit, and expanded CRMcustomer relationship management ("CRM") capabilities which enableshave enabled us to re-engage consumerswith users who have already registered on our owned media properties. 

 

Each of the foregoing factors has served to increase monetization of consumer traffic, which has partially offset reductions in traffic volume year-over-year, stemming from our Traffic Quality Initiative. Through these initiatives, our business has become less dependent on traffic volume to generate revenue growth. We also continued to source higher volumes of traffic from major digital media platforms in the firstsecond quarter of 2022, with year-over-year reductions in lower-quality affiliate traffic. The growth in Q2 2022 also reflects some of our Q3 2022 strategic initiatives that began earlier than planned. Moving forward, we will continue to assess the strategic relevancy of these initiatives to our core, while we determine where we make our long term bets. These trends are anticipated to continue in the near future as we test and scale media channels, strategies and partnerships. See discussion below under "Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization).

 

Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization). Cost of revenue increased $16.6$13.4 million, or 33%24%, to $67.6$70.0 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, from $51.0compared to $56.6 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2021. Our cost of revenue primarily consists of media and related costs associated with acquiring traffic from third-party publishers and digital media platforms for our owned and operated websites and, historically, on behalf of third-party advertisers, as well as the costs of fulfilling rewards earned by consumers who complete the requisite number of advertisersadvertisers' offers.

 

 

The total cost of revenue as a percentage of revenue increaseddecreased to 76%71% for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, compared to 73%77% for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2021. In the normal course of executing paid media campaigns to source consumer traffic, we regularly testevaluate new channels, strategies and partners, in an effort to identify actionable opportunities which can then be optimized over time. Traffic acquisition costs incurred with the major digital media platforms from which we sourced increased traffic volumes have historically been higher than affiliate traffic sources. In the firstsecond quarter of 2022, we continued to increase our spend and improve profitability with our major digital media platforms compared to the same period last year, though profitability was still belowyear. The growth also reflects some of our historical levels achieved through affiliate marketing.Q3 2022 strategic and test and learn initiatives that began earlier than planned. Moving forward, we will continue to assess the strategic relevancy of these initiatives to our core, while we determine where we make our long term bets. The mix and profitability of our media channels, strategies and partners is likely to be dynamic and reflect evolving market dynamics and the impact of our Traffic Quality Initiative. As we testevaluate and scale new media channels, strategies and partners, we may determine that certain sources initially able to provide us profitable quality traffic may not be able to maintain our quality standards over time, and we may need to discontinue, or direct a modification of the practices of, such sources, which could reduce profitability. We believe theour Traffic Quality Initiative will benefit the Company over time, providing the foundation to support sustainable long-term growth and positioning us as an industry leader. Past levels of cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) may therefore not be indicative of future costs, which may increase or decrease as these uncertainties in our business play out.

 

Sales and marketing. Sales and marketing expenses increased $0.9$1.5 million, or 30%49%, to $3.9$4.5 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, fromcompared to $3.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. June 30, 2021, due to increase in business travel, events and in-person meetings.For the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, the amounts consisted mainly of employee salaries and benefits of $3.3$3.8 million and $2.5$2.6 million, advertising costs of $0.3 and $0.2$0.1 million, and non-cash share-based compensation expenseexpenses of $0.2$0.1 and $0.2 million respectively. As business travel and in-person meetings and events have resumed, we anticipate that our sales and marketing expenditures may increase in future periods. As a result, past levels of sales and marketing expenditures may not be indicative of future expenditures, which may increase or decrease as these uncertainties in our business play out.

 

Product development. Product development expense increased $1.1$1.4 million, or 33%40%, to $4.64.8 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, fromcompared to $3.4 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2021. For the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, the amounts consisted mainly of salaries and benefits of $3.3$3.5 million and $2.6$2.4 million, professional fees of $0.7 million and $0.2$0.3 million, software license and maintenance costs of $0.4 million and $0.3 million, and non-cash share-based compensation expense of $0.2$0.1 million and $0.3$0.2 million, respectively. The increase in product development expenses reflects,reflect investments in part,our technology and analytics platform, as well as the development of new app-based media properties, expanding beyond our traditional focus on web-based media properties.

 

General and administrative. General and administrative expenses decreasedincreased by $0.4$0.2 million, or 4%1%, to $11.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022, from $11.7 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, compared to $11.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2021. For the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, the amounts consisted mainly of employee salaries and benefits of $4.9$6.0 million and $4.9$5.0 million, professional fees of $1.4$1.3 million and $1.5$1.2 million, office overhead of $1.2 million and $1.1 million, certain litigation and related costs of $1.4$0.6 million and $0.7$0.4 million, office overhead of $1.1 million and $1.1 million, non-cash share-based compensation expense of $0.7$0.6 million and $0.8 million, software license and maintenance costs of $0.6 million and $0.6$0.9 million, acquisition-related costs of $0.6 million and $0.0$0.5 million, and accrued compensation expense for the Put/Call Consideration from the Initial Winopoly Acquisition described below under the heading "Liquidity and Capital Resources" of $0.0 million and $1.7$0.9 million (see Note 11, Business acquisition, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements), respectively. The decreaseincrease was mainly the result ofcontinued investments in the Put/Call consideration related to the Initial Winopoly acquisition, offset bybusiness, along with increased employee salaries and benefits, certain litigation and related costs, due topartially offset by the Tax Department settlement anddecrease in accrued compensation expense for the acquisition-related costs in connection with the True North Acquisition and the Full Winopoly AcquisitionPut/Call Consideration.

 

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses decreased $0.1$0.01 million, or 2%1%, to $3.3 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, fromcompared to $3.4 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2021. 

 

Write-off of intangible assets.DuringFor the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, wethe Company recognized $0.1an impairment loss related to goodwill of $55.4 million of write-offcompared to $0.2 million recognized for the write off of intangible assets related to software developed for internal use with no corresponding charge in the prior period.for three months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Interest expense, net. Interest expense, net, decreased $0.6 million, or 62%, toremained flat at $0.4 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 from $1.0 million for the three months ended March 31,and 2021. The decrease was attributable to a lower interest rate on the New Credit Facility Term Loan as compared to the Refinanced Term Loan, described below under "Liquidity and Capital Resources." 

Loss on early extinguishment of debt. During the three months ended March 31, 2021, we recognized $3.0 million of loss due to the early extinguishment of debt, described below under "Liquidity and Capital Resources," with no corresponding charge in the three months ended March 31, 2022.

 

 

(Loss) incomeNet loss before income taxes. For the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, net loss before income taxes was $2.0$51.8 million, compared to net loss before income taxes of $6.3$5.2 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2021. The improvementincrease in net loss before income taxes of $4.2$46.6 million was primarily due to the non-cash impairment charge of $55.4 million, an increase in cost of revenue of $18.9$13.4 million, a decreasean increase in sales and marketing of $3.0 million related to the loss on the extinguishment of debt, a decrease in interest expense of $0.6$1.5 million, and a decreasean increase in general and administrative expenseproduct development of $0.4$1.4 million, partially offset by an increase in the cost of revenue of $16.6 million, an increase in product development of $1.1 million, and an increase in sales and marketing of $0.9$25.0 million, as discussed above.

 

Income taxes.tax expense. IncomeFor the three months ended June 30, 2022, the Company had income tax expense was $0.0of $5.1 million, and $0.1 million, respectively,with no corresponding impact for the three months ended March 31, 2022 andJune 30, 2021 respectively..

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, we recorded a full valuation allowance against our net deferred tax assets. We intend to maintain a full valuation allowance against the net deferred tax assets until there is sufficient evidence to support the release of all or some portion of this allowance. Based on various factors, including our history of losses, current income,loss, estimated future taxable income,loss, exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences and consideration of available tax planning strategies, we believe thereit is a reasonable possibilityunlikely that within the next twelve months, sufficient positive evidence may become available to allow us to reach a conclusion that a significant portion of the valuation allowance may be released. Release of some or all of the valuation allowance would result in the recognition of certain deferred tax assets and an increase in deferred tax benefit for any period in which such a release may be recorded, however, the exact timing and amount of any valuation allowance release are subject to change, depending on the profitability that we are able to achieve and the net deferred tax assets available.

 

Net (loss) incomeloss. Net loss of $2.0$56.9 million and $6.3net loss of $5.2 million were recognized for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as a result of the foregoing.

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022 compared to six months ended June 30, 2021

Revenue. Revenue increased $43.9 million, or 31%, to $187.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to $143.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The increase was largely attributable to growth in the Rewards business, driven by expanding media footprint in both U.S and international markets, increased client demand in the Fluent Sales Solution business unit, and expanded CRM capabilities which have enabled us to re-engage with users who have already registered on our owned media properties.

Each of the foregoing factors has served to increase monetization of consumer traffic, which has partially offset reductions in traffic volume year-over-year, stemming from our Traffic Quality Initiative. Through these initiatives, our business has become less dependent on traffic volume to generate revenue growth. We also sourced higher volumes of traffic from major digital media platforms in the first six months of 2022 compared to the first six months of 2021, with year-over-year reductions in lower-quality affiliate traffic. These trends are anticipated to continue in the near future as we test and scale media channels, strategies and partnerships.

Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization). Cost of revenue increased $30.0 million, or 28%, to $137.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to $107.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. 

The total cost of revenue as a percentage of revenue decreased to 73% for the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to 75% for the six months ended June 30, 2021. 

Sales and marketing. Sales and marketing expenses increased $2.4 million, or 40%, to $8.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to $6.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, due to increase in business travel, events and in-person meetings. For the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, the amounts consisted mainly of employee salaries and benefits of $7.1 million and $5.1 million, advertising costs of $0.6 and $0.3 million, and non-cash share-based compensation expense of $0.3 and $0.4 million respectively.

Product development.Product development expense increased $2.5 million, or 36%, to $9.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to $6.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. For the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, the amounts consisted mainly of salaries and benefits of $6.8 million and $5.0 million, professional fees of $1.4 million and $0.5 million, software license and maintenance costs of $0.7 million and $0.7 million, and non-cash share-based compensation expense of $0.3 million and $0.5 million, respectively. The increase in product development expenses reflect investments in our technology and analytics platform, as well as the development of new app-based media properties, expanding beyond our traditional focus on web-based media properties.

General and administrative.General and administrative expenses decreased by $0.3 million, or 1%, to $23.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to $23.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. For the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, the amounts consisted mainly of employee salaries and benefits of $10.9 million and $9.9 million, professional fees of $2.7 million and $2.7 million, office overhead of $2.3 million and $2.2 million, certain litigation and related costs of $2.0 million and $1.0 million, non-cash share-based compensation expense of $1.3 million and $1.6 million, software license and maintenance costs of $1.2 million and $1.5 million, acquisition-related costs of $1.1 million and $0.5 million, and accrued compensation expense for the Put/Call Consideration from the Initial Winopoly Acquisition described below under the heading "Liquidity and Capital Resources" of $0.0 million and $2.6 million (see Note 11, Business acquisition, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements), respectively. The decrease was mainly the result of the Put/Call Consideration related to the Initial Winopoly Acquisition (as defined below) and software license fees, offset by increased employee salaries and benefits, litigation and related costs due to the New York State Tax Department settlement and the acquisition-related costs in connection with the True North Acquisition and the Full Winopoly Acquisition (as defined below).

Depreciation and amortization.Depreciation and amortization expenses decreased $0.1 million, or 1%, to $6.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to $6.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. 

Write-off of intangible assets. During the six months ended June 30, 2022, the Company recognized an impairment loss related to goodwill of $55.4 million, compared to $0.2 million recognized for the six months ended June 30, 2021 for the write off of intangible assets related to software developed for internal use.

Interest expense, net. Interest expense, net, decreased $0.6 million, or 43%, to $0.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, from $1.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The decrease was attributable to a lower interest rate on the New Credit Facility, described below under "Liquidity and Capital Resources," compared to to the prior loan in place during the first quarter of 2021.

Loss on early extinguishment of debt. During the six months ended June 30, 2021, we recognized $3.0 million of loss due to the early extinguishment of debt, described below under "Liquidity and Capital Resources," with no corresponding charge in the six months ended June 30, 2022.

Net loss before income taxes.For the six months ended June 30, 2022, net loss before income taxes was $53.8 million, compared to net loss before income taxes of $11.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The increase in net loss of $42.4 million was primarily due to the non-cash impairment charge of $55.4 million,an increase in the cost of revenue of $30.0 million, an increase in product development of $2.5 million, and an increase in sales and marketing of $2.4 million, partially offset by an increase in revenue of $43.9 million, as discussed above. 

Income tax (expense) benefit. For the six months ended June 30, 2022, the Company had income tax expense of $5.1 million, compared to$0.01 million income tax benefit for the six months ended June 30, 2021.

Net loss. Net loss of $59.0 million and net loss of $11.4 million were recognized for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as a result of the foregoing.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Cash flows (used in) provided by operating activities. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, net cash used in operating activities was $1.8$1.9 million, as compared with $5.0to $0.7 million of net cash provided by operating activities infor the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2021. Net loss in the current period of $2.0$59.0 million represents a decreasean increase of $4.2$47.5 million, as compared with net loss of $6.3$11.4 million in the prior period. Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities of $4.6$69.5 million in the current period decreasedincreased by $4.1$54.9 million, as compared with $8.7$14.6 million in the prior period, primarily due to the inclusion of a non-cash impairment loss on early extinguishmentrelated to goodwill of debt and an accrual for Put/Call Consideration$55.4 million in the priorcurrent period. Changes in assets and liabilities consumed cash of $4.3$12.4 million in the current period, as compared with sourcing cash of $2.6$3.8 million in the prior period, primarily due to ordinary-course changes in working capital, largely involving the timing of receipt of amounts owing from clients and disbursements of amounts payable to vendors. 

 

Cash flows used in(used in) investing activities. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 and 2021, net cash used in investing activities was $2.0$3.2 million and $0.8$1.6 million, respectively. The increase was mainly due to the True North Acquisition that occurred in the current year. 

 

Cash flows(used in) provided by (used in) financing activities. Net cash used by financing activities for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 was $1.7$2.9 million and net cash provided by financing activities was $7.4$6.3 million for the prior period.six months ended June 30, 2021. The change of -$9.1$9.2 million in cash used in financing activities in the current period was mainly due to the decrease in the repayment of long term debt of $40.5 million, mainly offset by the net proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of financing costs of $49.6 million, in the prior period, the exercise of stock options by a former key executive of $0.9 million, in the prior period, and the prepayment penalty on early debt extinguishment of $0.8 million.million in the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022, we had noncancelable operating lease commitments of $8.1$7.6 million and long-term debt with a $45.0$43.8 million principal balance. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, we funded our operations using available cash.

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2022, we had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $28.9$26.4 million, a decrease of $5.6$8.1 million from $34.5 million as of December 31, 2021. We believe that we will have sufficient cash resources to finance our operations and expected capital expenditures for the next twelve months and beyond.

 

 

We may explore the possible acquisition of businesses, products and/or technologies that are complementary to our existing business. We are continuingcontinue to identify and prioritize additional technologies, which we may wish to develop internally or through licensing or acquisition from third parties. While we may engage from time to time in discussions with respect to potential acquisitions, there can be no assurancesassurance that any such acquisitions will be made or that we will be able to successfully integrate any acquired business.business with our then current business or realize anticipated cost synergies. In order to finance such acquisitions and working capital, it may be necessary for us to raise additional funds through public or private financings. Any equity or debt financings, if available at all, may be on terms which are not favorable to us and, in the case of equity financings, may result in dilution to shareholders. 

On April 1, 2020, we acquired a 50% membership interest in Winopoly, LLC (the "Initial Winopoly Acquisition"), for a deemed purchase price of $2.6 million, comprised of $1.6 million in upfront cash paid to the seller parties and contingent consideration with a fair value of $1.0 million, payable based upon the achievement of specified revenue targets over the eighteen-month period following the completion of the acquisition. See(See Note 11, Business acquisition, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.) On September 1, 2021, we acquired the remaining 50% membership interest in Winopoly, LLC ("the Full Winopoly Acquisition") in a negotiated transaction. The consideration was $7.8 million, which consisted of $3.4 million of cash at closing, $2.0 million of cash due on January 31, 2022, and $0.5 million of deferred payments due at each of the first and second anniversaries of the closing. We also issued 500,000 shares of fully-vested stock under the Fluent, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2018 Plan") to certain Winopoly personnel valued at $1.4 million. See(See Note 11, Business acquisition, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.) On January 1, 2022, we acquired a 100% membership interest in True North Loyalty, LLC. (“True North Acquisition”) for a deemed purchase price of $2.3 million, which consisted of $1.0 million of cash at closing, $0.5 million of deferred payments due at both the first and second anniversary of the closing and contingent consideration with a fair value of $0.3 million, payable based upon the achievement of specified revenue targets over the five-year period following the completion of the acquisition. The CompanyWe also issued 100,000 shares of fully vested stock under the Fluent, Inc. 2018 Stock Incentive Plan to the sellers valued at $0.2 million. See(See Note 11 Business acquisition, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

On March 31, 2021, Fluent, LLC, our wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) by and among, Fluent, LLC,with certain subsidiaries of Fluent, LLC as guarantors and Citizens Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, lead arranger and bookrunner, and BankUnited, N.A. and Silicon Valley Bank.bookrunner. The Credit Agreement provides for a term loan in the aggregate principal amount of $50.0 million funded on the Closing Date (the “Term Loan”), along with an undrawn revolving credit facility of up to $15.0 million (the "Revolving Loans," and together with the Term Loan, the "New Credit Facility"). As of March 31,June 30, 2022, the Credit Agreement has an outstanding principal balance of $45.0$43.8 million and matures on March 31, 2026. Principal amortization of the Credit Agreement is $1.3 million per quarter, which commenced with the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2021.

 

Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate per annum equal to an applicable margin, plus, at the Company's option, either a base rate or a London Inter-bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”)LIBOR rate (subject to a floor of 0.25%). The applicable margin is between 0.75% and 1.75% for base rate borrowings and 1.75% and 2.75% for LIBOR rate borrowings, depending upon the Company's consolidated leverage ratio. The opening interest rate of the New Credit Facility was 2.50% (LIBOR + 2.25%) and, which increased to 3.92% (LIBOR + 2.25%) as of March 2022, the interest rate increased to 2.75% (LIBOR + 2.50%)June 30, 2022.

 

The Credit Agreement contains restrictive covenants which impose limitations on the way we conduct our business, including limitations on the amount of additional debt we are able to incur and our ability to make certain investments and other restricted payments. The restrictive covenants may limit our strategic and financing options and our ability to return capital to our shareholdersstockholders through dividends or stock buybacks. Furthermore, we may need to incur additional debt to meet future financing needs. The Credit Agreement is guaranteed by us and our direct and indirect subsidiaries and is secured by substantially all of our assets and those of our direct and indirect subsidiaries, including Fluent, LLC, in each case, on an equal and ratable basis.

 

The Credit Agreement requires us to maintain and comply with certain financial and other covenants. While we were in compliance with the financial and other covenants as of March 31,June 30, 2022, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to maintain compliance with such financial or other covenants in future periods. Our failure to comply with these covenants could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our indebtedness, which would materially adversely affect our financial healthcondition if we are unable to access sufficient funds to repay all the outstanding amounts. Moreover, if we are unable to meet our debt obligations as they come due, we could be forced to restructure or refinance such obligations, seek additional equity financing or sell assets, which we may not be able to do on satisfactory terms, or at all. 

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of March 31, 2022, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("US GAAP").GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We periodically evaluate our estimates, including those related to revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful accounts, useful lives of intangible assets, recoverability of the carrying amounts of goodwill and intangible assets, share-based compensation and income taxes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

As disclosed in Note 4, Goodwill, included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the Company engaged a third party to assist in conducting an interim test of the fair value of its goodwill for potential impairment. The Company considered a combination of income and market approaches to determine the fair value of the Fluent reporting unit. The Company determined that a market-based approach, which considered the Company’s implied market multiple applied to management’s forecast and further adjusted for a control premium, provided the best indication of fair value of the Fluent reporting unit. Based on the results of this market-based approach as of June 30, 2022, the Company concluded that its carrying value exceeded its estimated fair value by 27%. As such the Company concluded that its goodwill of $162.0 million for the Fluent reporting unit was impaired and recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $55.4 million. The impairment test involves the use of accounting estimates and assumptions, changes in which could materially impact our financial condition or operating performance if actual results differ from such estimates or assumptions. The critical assumptions used in determining the fair value of the reporting unit are forecasted cash flows, market multiples, and control premiums. Management exercises judgment in developing these assumptions. Certain of these assumptions are based on facts specific to the reporting unit, market participant assumptions and management’s projected cash flows. If actual cash flows were to decline from forecast, or market factors such as valuation multiples or interest rates were to trend in an unfavorable direction, there would be an increased risk of goodwill impairment for the Fluent reporting unit.


For additional information, please refer to our 2021 Form 10-K. ThereExcept as set forth herein, there have been no additional material changes to Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates disclosed in the 2021 Form 10-K.

 

Recently issued accounting and adopted standards

 

See Note 1(b), "Recently issued and adopted accounting standards," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.Statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

As a smaller reporting company, we are not required to provide the information required by this Item.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures.

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Our management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of March 31,June 30, 2022. We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted 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 principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Our management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

 

Based on the evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), the Company's principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31,June 30, 2022. Management believes the consolidated financial statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q fairly represent in all material respects our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows at and for the periods presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes to our internal control over financial reporting during this quarter ended March 31,June 30, 2022 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings.

 

Other than as disclosed below under "Certain Legal Matters," the Company is not currently aware of legal proceeding, investigation or claim which, in the opinion of the management, is likely to have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows of the Company. Legal fees associated with legal proceedings are expensed as incurred. We review legal proceedings and claims on an ongoing basis and follow appropriate accounting guidance, including ASC 450, when making accrual and disclosure decisions. We establish accruals for those contingencies where the incurrence of a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated, and we disclose the amount accrued and the amount of a reasonably possible loss in excess of the amount accrued, if such disclosure is necessary for our financial statements to not be misleading. To estimate whether a loss contingency should be accrued by a charge to income, we evaluate, among other factors, the probability of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of the loss. We do not record liabilities when the likelihood that the liability has been incurred is probable, but the amount cannot be reasonably estimated.

 

In addition, we may be involved in litigation from time to time in the ordinary course of business. We do not believe that the ultimate resolution of any such matters will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. However, the results of such matters cannot be predicted with certainty and we cannot assure you that the ultimate resolution of any legal or administrative proceeding or dispute will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

 

Certain Legal Matters

 

On October 26, 2018, the Company received a subpoena from the New York Attorney General’s Office (“NY AG”) regarding compliance with New York Executive Law § 63(12) and New York General Business Law § 349, as they relate to the collection, use, or disclosure of information from or about consumers or individuals, as such information was submitted to the Federal Communication Commission (“FCC”) in connection with the FCC’s rulemaking proceeding captioned “Restoring Internet Freedom,” WC Docket No. 17-108. On May 6, 2021, the Company and the NY AG executed an Assurance of Discontinuance (the “AOD”) to resolve this matter. The AOD imposed injunctive provisions on the Company’s practices with regard to political advocacy campaigns, most of which the Company had already implemented, and imposed a $3.7 million penalty, which was in line with the Company's accrual and was paid in full as of June 30, 2021.

 

On December 13, 2018, the Company received a subpoena from the United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) regarding the same issue. On March 12, 2020, the Company received a subpoena from the Office of the Attorney General of the District of Columbia ("DC AG") regarding the same issue. The Company was responsive and fully cooperated with each ofhas not received any communications from either the DOJ andor the DC AG.AG since the second quarter of 2020. At this time, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of this matter or the significance, if any, to our business, results of operations or financial position.

 

On June 27, 2019, as a part of two sales and use tax audits covering the period from December 1, 2010 to November 30, 2019, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (the “Tax Department”) issued a letter stating its position that revenue derived from certain of the Company’s customer acquisition and list management services are subject to sales tax, as a result of being deemed information services. The Company disputed the Tax Department's position on several grounds, but on January 14 and 15, 2020, the Tax Department issued Statements of Proposed Audit Adjustment totaling $8.2 million, including $2.0 million of interest. The Company formally disagreed with the amount of the Proposed Audit Adjustments and met with the Tax Department on March 4, 2020. During that meeting, the Company informed the Tax Department that a majority of the Proposed Audit Adjustments was attributable to revenue derived from transfers which were either excluded resales or sourced outside of New York and renewed its challenge as to the taxability of its customer acquisition revenue. On July 22 and 31, 2020, the Company received notices of determination from the Tax Department totaling $3.0 million, including $0.7 million of interest. On October 16, 2020, the Company filed challenges to the notices of determination. On March 31, 2022, after a Conciliation Conference, the Company reached a settlement with the Tax Department for $1.7 million. which was paid on April 1, 2022.

 

On January 28, 2020, the Company received a Civil Investigative Demand from the FTC regarding compliance with the Federal Trade Commission Act or the Telemarketing Sales Rule, as they relate to the advertising, marketing, promotion, offering for sale, or sale of rewards and other products, the transmission of commercial text messages, and/or consumer privacy or data security. The Company has been responsive and is fully cooperating with the FTC. At this time, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of this matter or the significance, if any, to our business, results of operations or financial position.

 

 

On October 6, 2020, the Company received notice from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General (“PA OAG”) that it was reviewing the Company’s business practices for compliance under the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, 73 P.S. § 201-1 et seq.("PA UTP"); the Telemarketer Registration Act, 73 P.S. § 2241 et. seq.("PA TSR"), and the Telemarketing Sales Rule, 16 C.F.R. 310 et seq. seq ("TSR"). The Company has been responsive and is fully cooperating with the PA OAG. On February 14, 2022, the PA OAG sent a letter in which it asserted that the Company's lead generation practices violate the PA TSR, the PA UTP and the TSR. TheWhile, the Company disputes the PA OAG's assertions and believescontinues to believe that its lead generation practices are compliant.  At this time,compliant with applicable laws, the Company and the PA OAG are negotiating the terms of an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance ("AVC") to resolve the matter. It is uncertain whether a mutually acceptable AVC can be reached and the terms thereof. Consequently, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of this matter or the significance, if any, to the Company’s business, results of operations or financial position.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

 

Our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows may be impacted by a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control, including those set forth in our 2021 Form 10-K, the occurrence of any one of which could have a material adverse effect on our actual results.

 

There have been no material changes to the Risk Factors previously disclosed in our 2021 Form 10-K.

 

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

 

Issuer Purchase of Equity SecuritiesNone.

The table below sets forth the information with respect to purchases made by or on behalf of the Company of its common stock during the first quarter of 2022.

Period

 

Total Number of Shares Purchased(1)

  

Average Price Paid per Share

  

Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs

  

Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs

 

January 1-31, 2022

  19,375  $1.85       

February 1-28, 2022

            

March 1-31, 2022

  188,954   2.18       

Total

  208,329   2.15       

(1)During January 2022, February 2022, and March 2022, 19,375 shares, 0 shares and 188,954 shares, respectively (totaling 208,329 shares), were purchased to satisfy federal and state withholding obligations of our employees upon the settlement of restricted stock units, all in accordance with the applicable equity incentive plan.

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

 

None.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

 

Not Applicable.

 

Item 5. Other Information.

 

None.

 

 

Item 6. Exhibits.

 

The following exhibits are filed as part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

 

 

 

 

Incorporated by Reference

 

Filed

Exhibit No.

 

Exhibit Description

 

Form

 

File No.

 

Exhibit

 

Filing Date

 

Herewith

3.1 Certificate of Incorporation 8-K 001-37893 3.2 3/26/2015  
             
3.2 Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation 8-K 001-37893 3.1 4/16/2018  
             
3.3 Amended and Restated Bylaws 8-K 001-37893 3.2 2/19/2019  
             
4.1 Form of Common Stock Certificate 8-K 001-37893 4.1 4/16/2018  
10.1 

Transition Agreement, dated November 9, 2021, by and between the Company and Alex Mandel

         X
10.2 Employment Agreement, dated November 9, 2021, by and between the Company and Sugandha Khandelwal         X

31.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer filed pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

31.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer filed pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

32.1*

 

Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

32.2*

 

Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.INS

 

Inline XBRL Instance Document (the Instance Document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.SCH

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.CAL

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.DEF

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.LAB

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.PRE

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

104 Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)          

*

 

This certification is deemed not filed for purposes of section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act), or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended or the Exchange Act.

 

 

 

 

Incorporated by Reference

 

Filed

Exhibit No.

 

Exhibit Description

 

Form

 

File No.

 

Exhibit

 

Filing Date

 

Herewith

3.1 Certificate of Incorporation 8-K 001-37893 3.2 3/26/2015  
             
3.2 Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation 8-K 001-37893 3.1 4/16/2018  
             
3.3 Amended and Restated Bylaws 8-K 001-37893 3.2 2/19/2019  
             
4.1 Form of Common Stock Certificate 8-K 001-37893 4.1 4/16/2018  
  

 

          
10.1 Fluent, Inc. 2022 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan 8-K 001-37893 10.1 6/10/2022  
             

31.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer filed pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

31.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer filed pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

32.1*

 

Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

32.2*

 

Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.INS

 

Inline XBRL Instance Document (the Instance Document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.SCH

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.CAL

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.DEF

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.LAB

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

101.PRE

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

104 Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)          

*

 

This certification is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Fluent, Inc.

     
     
May 10,August 9, 2022

 

By:

 

/s/ Sugandha Khandelwal

 

 

 

 

Sugandha Khandelwal

 

 

 

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

3335