UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

SCHEDULE 14A

 

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the SecuritiesExchange Act of 1934

  

Filed by the Registrant

x

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant

¨

Check the appropriate box:

x

Preliminary Proxy Statement

¨

Confidential, For Use of the Commission Only (as Permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

¨

Definitive Proxy Statement

¨

Definitive Additional Materials

¨

Soliciting Material Pursuant to § 240.14a-12

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATIONAULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

(Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

 

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

x

No fee required

¨

Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.

 (1)

Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:

 (2)(2)

Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:

 (3)

Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):

 (4)

Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:

 (5)

Total fee paid:

¨ 

Fee paid previously with preliminary materials:

  

¨

Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

       (1)Amount Previously Paid:
 

(2)

Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:

(3)Filing Party:

(4)Date Filed:

 


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION

48430 Lakeview Blvd.

Fremont, California 94538-3158

Telephone:  (510) 657-2635

 

PRELIMINARY PROXY STATEMENT

SUBJECT TO COMPLETION – DATED MAY 27, 2021

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240

Las Vegas, NV 89141

Telephone: (949) 444-5464

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERSSTOCKHOLDERS

 

Virtual Meeting Only – No Physical Meeting Location

To Be Held on July 6, 2021

We cordially invite you to attend the 2017 Annual Meeting of ShareholdersStockholders of Digital Power CorporationAult Global Holdings, Inc. (“DPWAGH” or the “Company”). Our 2017Due to the continued public health impact of the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) and out of concern for the health and well-being of our employees and stockholders, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the location, date and time of the Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) of the Company will be held on ______day, __________ ___, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. PT and will be our first completelyin a virtual meeting of shareholders. You will be able to attend the 2017 Annual Meeting, vote, and submit your questions during the meeting via live webcast by visiting www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/DPW2017. To enter the meeting, you must have your twelve-digit control number that is shownformat only on the proxy card accompanying this Proxy Statement.Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at 9:00 A.M. Pacific Time. You will not be able to attend the Annual Meeting in person.

To access the virtual meeting please click the Virtual Stockholder Meeting link: www.meetingcenter.io/281807556. To login to the virtual meeting you have two options: Join as a “Guest” or Join as a “Stockholder.” If you join as a “Stockholder” you will be required to have a control number and password. The password for the meeting is DPW2021.

 

Details regarding logging onto and attending the meeting over the website and the business to be conducted are described in the Proxy Card included with this Proxy Statement. We have also made available a copy of our 2016 Annual Report with this Proxy Statement. We encourage you to read our Annual Report. It includes our audited financial statements and provides information about our business and products.

 

The purpose ofAnnual Meeting will be held for the meeting is: following purposes:

 

1.

·

To elect the six (6)eight (8) director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders;

stockholders;

 

2.

·

To ratify the appointment of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017;

2021;

 

3.

·

To approve, the reincorporationpursuant to Rule 713 of the Company from CaliforniaNYSE American, the exercise of warrants issued to Delaware;

4.

To approve the conversionEsousa Holdings, LLC (“Esousa”) and exercise rights oftwo individuals, to purchase up to 500,000an aggregate of 3,850,220 shares of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock convertible into shares of common stock (“Common Stock and the exercisability”), issued in connection with certain term promissory notes in an aggregate amount of Warrantsup to purchase shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement dated March 9, 2017,$5,300,000, in order to comply with the listing rules of the NYSE American;

 

5.

·

ToTo approve the conversion of into shares of CommonAult Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock of 378,776 sharesIncentive Plan (the “2021 Plan”);

·To approve the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2021 ESPP”);

·To approve the 2020 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock and exercisability of Warrants to purchase up to 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock issued in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement dated April 28, 2017,Company, in order to comply with the listing rules of the NYSE American;

 

6.

·

To approve the conversion of 10,000 shares2021 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement, dated April 28, 2017,Company, in order to comply with the listing rules of the NYSE American;

and

 

7.

·

To approve the conversion of a $400,000 Convertible Note convertible into 727,273 shares of Common Stock at $0.55 per share and related Warrants to purchase 666,667 shares of Common Stock at $1.10 per share in accordance with the Convertible Note Purchase Agreement dated August 3, 2017, in order to comply with the listing rules the NYSE American;

8.

To approve the conversion of $880,000 of Convertible Notes into the aggregate of 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock At $0.60 per share and related exercise of Warrants to purchase 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.66 per share in accordance with the Convertible Note Purchase Agreement dated August 10, 2017 in order to comply with the listing rules the NYSE American;

9.

To approve the exercisability of (i) warrants to purchase 317,460 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share and (ii) options to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.65 per share, and the issuance of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exerciseThe transaction of such options and warrants, in accordance with the Executive Employment Agreement (defined herein) dated November 30, 2016 as subsequently amended on February 22, 2017, in order to comply with the listing rules the NYSE American;

10.

To adopt the Company’s 2017 Stock Incentive Plan; and


11.

To act on such other mattersbusiness as may properly come before the meetingAnnual Meeting or any adjournment there.

adjournments or postponements thereof.

 

The accompanying proxy statement sets forth additional information regarding the Annual Meeting, and provides you with detailed information regarding the business to be considered at the Annual Meeting. We encourage you to read the proxy statement carefully and in its entirety.

Only shareholdersstockholders of record at the close of business on _______, 2017,May 27, 2021, the record date for the Annual Meeting, will be entitled to attend and vote at the meeting.Annual Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof. The proxy materials will be mailed to shareholdersstockholders on or about _______, 2017.June XX, 2021.

 

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the 2017Annual Meeting of ShareholdersStockholders to be held on July 6, 2021:_______ ___, 2017:

 

This Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders and the accompanying Proxy Statement our 2016 Annual Reportare available

on Form 10-K and the Form 10-Q

for the fiscal quarter endedJune 30, 2017 are availableInternet at www.__________.com.www.envisionreports.com/AGH.

 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

/s/ Amos Kohn

Amos Kohn

President and Chief Executive Officer

_______ __, 2017

 

Milton C. Ault III

Executive Chairman

June XX, 2021

HOW TO VOTE: Your vote is important. Whether or not you plan to virtually attend the meeting,Annual Meeting, we hope you will vote as soon as possible.possible by either (1) mailing your completed and signed proxy card(s) to Ault Global Holdings, Inc., 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141, Attention: Corporate Secretary, (2) calling the toll-free number printed on your proxy card(s) and following the recorded instructions or (3) visiting the website indicated on your proxy card(s) and following the on-line instructions. You may revoke a previously submitted proxy at any time prior to the Annual Meeting. If you decide to attend the Annual Meeting and wish to change your proxy vote, overyou may do so automatically by voting at the Internet, as well as by telephone or, if you requested to receive printed proxy materials, by mailing a proxy or voting instruction card. Please review the instructions on each of your voting options described in this Proxy Statement as well as in the proxy card. Annual Meeting.Your vote is important, no matter how many shares you owned on the Record Date. A return envelope is enclosed for your convenience and needs no postage if mailed in the United States.

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Page

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE ANNUAL MEETING

1

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALS AND VOTING

4

3

PROPOSAL NO. 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

118

Information about the Nominees

118

Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

1310

Family Relationships

1411

Board Independence

1411

ShareholderStockholder Communications with the Board

1411

Meetings and Committees of the Board

1411

Board Committees

1412

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

1513

Code of Ethics

1613

Director Compensation

1613

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

1714

PROPOSAL NO. 2: RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC
ACCOUNTING FIRM

1815

Review of the Company’sCompany’s Audited Financial Statements for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2016

2020
1815

Fees Paid to Auditors

1815

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

1815

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

19

REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

1916

Required Vote and Board Recommendation 

16
PROPOSAL NO. 3: APPROVAL OF THE REINCORPORATION OF THE COMPANY FROM CALIFORNIA TO DELAWARE

20

Overview

20

Reasons for Reincorporation

20

Mechanics of Reincorporation

21

Changes to the Business of the Company as a Result of the Reincorporation

22

Anti-Takeover Implications

22

Possible Negative Considerations

23

Differences between the Charters and Bylaws of DPW-California and DPW-Delaware

23

Interest of the Company’s Directors and Executive Officers in the Reincorporation

30

Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences

30

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

31

PROPOSAL NO. 4: APPROVAL OF THE CONVERSION OF UP TO 500,000 SHARES OF SERIES B PREFERRED STOCK AND THE EXERCISE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE 3,850,220 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK

3217

Terms of the Transaction

3217

Description of the Series B Preferred Stock

33

Why the Company Needs ShareholderStockholder Approval

3317

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

Stockholders
3318

Further Information

3418

PROPOSAL NO. 4: APPROVAL OF THE 2021 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

19
Overview19
Summary of the 2021 Stock Incentive Plan19
Types of Awards21
New Plan Benefits under the 2021 Stock Incentive Plan23
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations23
Required Vote and Board Recommendation

3424

PROSPOSALPROPOSAL NO. 5: APPROVAL OF THE CONVERSION OF 378,776 SHARES OF SERIES D PREFERRED2021 EMPLOYEE STOCK AND THE EXERCISE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE UP TO 1,000,000 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK

PLAN
3525

Overview

25
Summary of the 2021 ESPP25
Summary of Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations26
Other Information27
Required Vote and Board Recommendation27
PROPOSAL NO. 6: APPROVAL OF 2020 EQUITY ISSUANCES TO DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS28
Terms of the Transaction

Issuances
3528

Certificate of Determination of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock

35

Why the Company Needs ShareholderStockholder Approval

3528

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

Stockholders
3628

Further Information

PROPOSAL NO. 7: APPROVAL OF 2021 EQUITY ISSUANCES TO DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
3629

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

36

PROPOSAL NO. 6: APPROVAL OF THE CONVERSION OF 10,000 SHARES OF SERIES E PREFERRED STOCK

37

Terms of the Transaction

Issuances
3729

Why the Company Needs ShareholderStockholder Approval

3729

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

Stockholders
3729

Further information

37

i

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

37

PROPOSAL NO. 7: APPROVAL OF THE CONVERSION OF A $400,000 NOTE CONVERTIBLE INTO 727,273 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK AND THE EXERCISE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE 666,667 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK

38

Terms of the Transaction

38

Why the Company Needs Shareholder Approval

38

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

38

Further Information

38

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

39

PROPOSAL NO. 8: APPROVAL OF THE CONVERSION OF $880,000 IN NOTES CONVERTIBLE INTO 1,466,667 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK AND THE EXERCISE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE 666,667 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK

40

Terms of the Transaction

40

Why the Company Needs Shareholder Approval

40

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

41

Further Information

41

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

41

PROPOSAL NO. 9: APPROVAL OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT DATED NOVEMBER 30, 2016

42

Terms of the Transaction

42

Why the Company Needs Shareholder Approval

42

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

43

Further Information

43

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

43

PROPOSAL NO. 10: APPROVAL OF THE 2017 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

44

Overview

44

Summary of the 2017 Plan

44

Types of Awards

46

New Plan Benefits under the 2017 Plan

48

U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

49

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

50

INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

5130

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

5131

Summary Compensation Table

5131

Employment Agreement with Amos Kohn

Milton C. Ault, III
5131

ArrangementEmployment Agreement with Mr. Friedlander

William B. Horne
5232

Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation

Employment Agreement with Henry Nisser
5233

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

5334

Stock Option Plans

5334

401(k) Plan

53

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

5335

Equity Compensation Plan Information

5435

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

5437

i

PROPOSALS OF STOCKHOLDERS FOR THE 2022 ANNUAL MEETING38

PROPOSALS OF SHAREHOLDERS FOR THE 2018 ANNUAL MEETING

OTHER BUSINESS
5738

OTHER BUSINESS

57

APPENDIXAPPENDIX A – ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016

2020

A-1

APPENDIXAPPENDIX B – QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q FOR THE FISCAL QUARTER ENDED JUNE 30, 2017

B-1

APPENDIX C – AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER

C-1

APPENDIX D – CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

D-1

APPENDIX E - BYLAWS

E-1

APPENDIX F – 20172021 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

F-1

APPENDIC C – 2021 EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN

 

ii
ii

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION

48430 Lakeview Blvd.

Fremont, California 94538-3158

Telephone:(510) 657-2635

 

PRELIMINARY PROXY STATEMENTAULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240,

Las Vegas, NV

Telephone: (949) 444-5464

 

PRELIMINARY PROXY STATEMENT

FOR THE 2017ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERSSTOCKHOLDERS

 

TO BE HELD ON _______ ___, 2017JULY 6, 2021

 

INFORMATION CONCERNING THE ANNUAL MEETING

 

General

 

The enclosed proxy is solicited by the Board of Directors (the(theBoard”) of Digital Power CorporationAult Global Holdings, Inc. (the “Company” or “DPWAGH”), for use at the Annual Meeting of the Company’s shareholdersstockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) to be held via live webcastin virtual format on the InternetTuesday, July 6, 2021 at _____________ on ___ ___, 2017, at 10:9:00 a.m. PTA.M. Pacific Time, and at any adjournments thereof. Whether or not you expect to attend the meeting in person,Annual Meeting, please vote your shares as promptly as possible to ensure that your vote is counted. The proxy materials will be furnished to shareholdersstockholders on or about _____, 2017.June XX, 2021.

 

In light of public health concerns, the Annual Meeting will be held in a virtual meeting format only. You will not be able to attend the Annual Meeting in person. To access the virtual meeting please click the Virtual Stockholder Meeting link: www.meetingcenter.io/281807556. To login to the virtual meeting you have two option: Join as a “Guest” or Join as a “Stockholder”. If you join as a “Stockholder” you will be required to have a control number and password. The password for the meeting is DPW2021.

Action to be taken undertaken under Proxy

 

Unless otherwise directed by the giver of the proxy, the persons named in the form of proxy, namely, Amos Kohn, our Chief Executive Officer, and Milton C. “Todd” Ault, III, ourthe Company’s Executive Chairman ofand William B. Horne, the Board,Company’s Chief Executive Officer, or either one of them who acts, will vote:

 

 ·

FORFOR the election of the six (6)eight (8) director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders;

stockholders;

 

 ·

FOR ratification ofthe appointmentratification of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017;

2021;

 

·

FOR approval of the reincorporationissuance of the Company from California to Delaware (the “Reincorporation”) and the related name change to DPW Holdings, Inc.;

FOR approval of conversion of up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock into and the exercisability of Warrants to purchase3,850,220 shares of Common Stock upon exercise of warrants issued to Esousa and two individuals in accordanceconnection with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement dated March 9, 2017,certain term promissory notes in order to comply with listing Rule 713an aggregate amount of the NYSE American, LLC;

FOR approval of the conversion of 378,776 shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock into and exercisability of Warrants to purchase up to 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock, each as issued in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement dated April 28, 2017, in order to comply with listing Rule 712 of the NYSE American, LLC and California law;

FOR approval of the conversion of 10,000 shares of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement dated April 28, 2017 in order to comply with listing Rule 712 of the NYSE American, LLC;

FOR approval of the conversion of a $400,000 Convertible Note convertible into 727,273 shares of Common Stock at $0.55 per share and related Warrants to purchase 666,667 shares of Common Stock at $1.10 per share in accordance with the Convertible Note Purchase Agreement dated August 3, 2017$5,300,000, in order to comply with the listing Rule 713rules of the NYSE American;

 

 ·

FOR approval of the conversionAult Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2021 Plan”);

·FOR approval of $880,000the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2021 ESPP”);

·FOR approval of Convertible Notes convertible into the aggregate2020 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share and related Warrants to purchase 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.66 per share in accordance with the Convertible Note Purchase Agreement dated August 10, 2017,Company, in order to comply with the listing Rule 713rules of the NYSE American;


FOR approval of the exercisability of (i) warrants to purchase 317,460 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share and (ii) options to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.65 per share, and the issuance of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such warrants and options, in accordance with the Chief Executive Officer’s Employment Agreement dated November 30, 2016, as subsequently amended on February 22, 2017, in order meet listing Rule 711 of the NYSE American;

 

·

To approveFOR approval of the 2017 Stock Incentive Plan;2021 equity issuances to directors and

executive officers of the Company, in order to comply with the listing rules of the NYSE American; and

 

·

According toIn their discretion, on the transaction of such other matters as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment there.

thereof.

Should any nominee named herein for election as a director become unavailable for any reason, it is intended that the persons named in the proxy will vote for the election of such other person in his stead as may be designated by the Board. The Board is not aware of any reason that might cause any nominee to be unavailable.

 

By submitting your proxy (via the Internet, telephone or mail), you authorize Mr. Amos Kohn, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Milton C. “Todd” Ault, III, the Company’s Executive Chairman ofand William B. Horne, the Board of Directors,Company’s Chief Executive Officer, to represent you and vote your shares at the meetingAnnual Meeting in accordance with your instructions. They also may vote your shares to adjourn the meetingAnnual Meeting and will be authorized to vote your shares at any postponements or adjournments of the meeting.Annual Meeting.

 

We will be hosting the 2017 Annual Meeting live via the Internet. A summary of the information you need to attend the meeting online is provided below:

 

Any shareholder can attend the 2017 Annual Meeting live via the Internet at _____________________;

 

Webcast starts at 10:00 a.m. PT;

Shareholders may vote and submit questions while attending the 2017 Annual Meeting on the Internet; and

Shareholders need a twelve-digit control number to join the 2017 Annual Meeting.

 

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING, PLEASE PROMPTLY VOTE YOUR SHARES OVER THE INTERNET, BY TELEPHONE OR BY MAIL.

 

Who is Entitled to Vote; Vote Required; Quorum

 

AsAs of the record date of May 27, 2021 (the “Record Date of _______, 2017,”), there were ____________49,774,538 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding; 100,0007,040 shares of Series A Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock issued and outstanding and 125,000 shares of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding; 454,986 shares of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding; 378,776 shares of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding; and 10,000 shares of Series E Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding;outstanding, which constitutesconstitute all of the outstanding voting capital stock of the Company. ShareholdersStockholders are entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held by them. The 100,000125,000 shares of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock carry the voting power of 0.004% of all votes entitled to be voted at the Annual Meeting. The up to 3,850,220 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of warrants issuable to Esousa will, assuming approval of Proposal 4,3, carry the voting power of _______ percent (__%)a presently indeterminate percentage of all votes entitled to be voted at any annual or special meeting of shareholders of our company or action by written consent of our shareholders but will not carry any voting rights at the Meeting. The 454,986 shares of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock carry the voting power of ___ percent (__%) of all votes entitled to be voted at any annual or special meeting of shareholdersstockholders of our Company or action by written consent of our shareholders andstockholders but will be voted on an as converted basis into shares of Common Stock along with the other shareholders of Common Stock. Neither the 378,776 shares of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock nor the 10,000 shares of Series E Convertible Preferred Stock havenot carry any voting rights.rights at the Annual Meeting.

 

A majority of the _______49,774,538 outstanding shares of Common Stock will constitute a quorum at the Annual Meeting.

 

Brokers holding shares of record for customers generally are not entitled to vote on “non-routine”“non-routine” matters, unless they receive voting instructions from their customers. As used herein, “uninstructed shares” means shares held by a broker who has not received such instructions from its customers on a proposal. A “broker non-vote” occurs when a nominee holding uninstructed shares for a beneficial owner does not vote on a particular proposal because the nominee does not have discretionary voting power with respect to that non-routine matter. In connection with the treatment of abstentions and broker non-votes, all but one of the proposals at this Annual Meeting are considered “non-routine” matters, and brokers are not entitled to vote uninstructed shares with respect to these proposals. Only the proposal to ratify the appointment of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, is a routine matter that brokers are entitled to vote upon without receiving instructions.


 

Determination of whether a matter specified in the Notice of Annual Meeting of ShareholdersStockholders has been approved will be determined as follows:

 

 

·

Those persons will be elected directors who receive a plurality of the votes cast at the Meeting in person or by proxy and entitled to vote on the election. Accordingly, abstentions or directions to withhold authority will have no effecteffect on the outcome of the vote;

and

  

 

·

The Reincorporation will require the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the total outstanding shares as of the record date. Consequently, abstentions will have the effect of a vote against the reincorporation;

Approval of the conversion of 378,776 shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock into and exercisability of Warrants to purchase up to 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock, each as issued in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement dated April 28, 2017, in order to comply with listing Rule 712 of the NYSE American, LLC and California law will require the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the total outstanding shares as of the record date. Consequently, abstentions will have the effect of a vote against the reincorporation; and

For each other matter specified in the Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders,Stockholders, the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of Common Stockcapital stock present at the meeting in person or by proxy and entitled to vote on such matter is required for approval. Abstentions will be considered shares present by proxy and entitled to vote and, therefore, will have the effect of a vote against the matter. Brokerbroker non-votes will be considered shares not present for this purpose and will have no effect on the outcome of the vote.

 

Directions to withhold authority to vote for directors, abstentions and broker non-votes will be counted for purposes of determining whether a quorum is present for the Meeting.

 

2

 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALS AND VOTING

 

What is the purpose of the 2017 Annual Meeting and why is it being held over the Internet?Meeting?

 

At the 2017 Annual Meeting, the shareholdersstockholders will be asked:

 

1.

·

To elect the six (6)eight (8) director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders;

stockholders;

 

2.

·

To ratify the appointment of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017;

2021;

 

3.

·

To approve, the Reincorporation of the Company from Californiapursuant to Delaware and the related name change to DPW Holdings, Inc.;

4.

To approve the conversion of up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock and the exercisability of warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock, in accordance with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement dated March 9, 2017, in order to comply with listing Rule 713 of the NYSE American, LLC;

5.

To approve the conversion of 378,776 shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock and exercisabilityexercise of warrants issued issuable to Esousa, to purchase up to 1,000,000an aggregate of 3,850,220 shares of Common Stock, each as issued in accordanceconnection with the Share Exchange Agreement dated April 28, 2017,certain term promissory notes in an aggregate amount of up to $5,300,000, in order to comply with the listing Rule 712rules of the NYSE American, LLC and California law;

American;

 

6.

·

To approve the conversion of 10,000 sharesAult Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2021 Plan”);

·To approve the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2021 ESPP”);

·To approve the 2020 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement, dated April 28, 2017,Company, in order to comply with the listing Rule 713rules of the NYSE American, LLC;;

American;

 

7.

·

To approve the conversion2021 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of a $400,000 Convertible Note convertible into 727,273 shares of Common Stock at $0.55 per share and related Warrants to purchase 666,667 shares of Common Stock at $1.10 per share in accordance with the Convertible Note Purchase Agreement dated August 3, 2017,Company, in order to comply with the listing Rule 713rules of the NYSE American, LLC;

American; and

 

8.

·

To approve the conversion of $880,000 of Convertible Notes convertible into the aggregate of 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share and related warrants to purchase 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.66 per share in accordance with the Convertible Note Purchase Agreement dated August 10, 2017, in order to comply with listing Rule 713 of the NYSE American, LLC;

9.

To approve the exercisability of (i) warrants to purchase 317,460 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share and (ii) options to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.65 per share, and the issuance of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such options and warrants, in accordance with the Executive Employment Agreement dated November 30, 2016, as subsequently amended on February 22, 2017, in order to comply with listing Rule 711 of the NYSE American, LLC;

10.

To approve 2017 Stock Incentive Plan; and

11.

To act on such other matters as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

The 2017 Annual Meeting is being held on a virtual-only basis in order to reach the broadest number of shareholders possible and to save costs relative to holding a physical meeting.


 

Who is entitled to vote?

 

The Record Date for the meetingAnnual Meeting is _______, 2017.May 27, 2021. Only shareholdersstockholders of record at the close of business on that date are entitled to vote at the meeting.Annual Meeting. The only class of stock entitled to be voted at the meeting is our Common stockStock and Series CB Convertible Preferred Stock. On the Record Date, there were ______49,774,538 shares of Common Stock outstanding; and 454,986125,000 shares of Series CB Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote. Each shareThe issued and outstanding shares of Series CB Convertible Preferred is convertible into fourStock carry the voting power of 0.004% shares of Common Stock and will vote on an as converted basis.Stock.

 

Why am I receiving these materials?

 

We have sent you these proxy materials because the Board of Digital Power Corporation (sometimes referred to as the Company,” “DPW,” “we” or “us”) is soliciting your proxy to vote at the 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.Meeting. According to our records, you were a shareholderstockholder of the Company as of the end of business on ______, 2017,May 27, 2021, the Record Date for the Annual Meeting.

 

You are invited to vote on the proposals described in this proxy statement.

 

The Company intends to mail these proxy materials on or about ______, 2017 June XX, 2021 to all shareholdersstockholders of record on the Record Date.

 

What is included in these materials?

 

These materials include:

 

·
the Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders;

·this Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting;

 

·

our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 and the Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2017;

2020;

 

·

The Agreementthe 2021 Plan; and Plan of Merger between DPW and DPW Holdings, Inc.;

 

·

The Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of DPW Holdings, Inc.; and

The 2017 Stock Incentive Plan.

the 2021 ESPP.

 

What is the proxy card?

 

The proxy card enables you to appoint Amos Kohn, our Chief Executive Officer, and Milton C. “Todd” Ault, III, ourthe Company’s Executive Chairman, ofand William B. Horne, the Board of Directors,Company’s Chief Executive Officer, as your representativerepresentatives at the Annual Meeting. By completing and returning a proxy card, you are authorizing these individuals to vote your shares at the Annual Meeting in accordance with your instructions on the proxy card. This way, your shares will be voted whether or not you attendlog in to the Annual Meeting.

 

Can I view these proxy materials over the Internet?

 

Yes. The Notice of Annual Meeting, this Proxy Statement and accompanying proxy card ourare available at www.envisionreports.com/AGH.

How can I attend the Annual ReportMeeting?

The Annual Meeting will be a completely virtual meeting of stockholders, which will be conducted exclusively by webcast. You are entitled to participate in the Annual Meeting only if you were a stockholder of the Company as of the close of business on Form 10-Kthe Record Date, or if you hold a valid proxy for the year ended December 31, 2016,Annual Meeting. No physical meeting will be held.

You will be able to attend the Form 10-QAnnual Meeting online by visiting www.meetingcenter.io/281807556. To log in to the virtual meeting you have two option: Join as a “Guest” or Join as a “Stockholder”. If you join as a “Stockholder” you will be required to have a control number and password. You also will be able to vote your shares online by attending the Annual Meeting by webcast.

To participate in the Annual Meeting, you will need to review the information included on your Notice, on your proxy card or on the instructions that accompanied your proxy materials. The password for the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2017 andmeeting is DPW2021.

If you hold your shares through an intermediary, such as a bank or broker, you must register in advance using the other documents appended hereto are available at: ______________.instructions below. The online meeting will begin promptly at 9:00 A.M. Pacific Time. We encourage you to access the meeting prior to the start time leaving ample time for the check in. Please follow the registration instructions as outlined in this proxy statement.

 

How do I vote by proxy?register to attend the Annual Meeting virtually on the Internet?

 

If you properly complete, sign and dateare a registered stockholder (i.e., you hold your shares through our transfer agent, Computershare), you do not need to register to attend the accompanyingAnnual Meeting virtually on the Internet. Please follow the instructions on the notice or proxy card that you received.

If you hold your shares through an intermediary, such as a bank or voting instruction cardbroker, you must register in advance to attend the Annual Meeting virtually on the Internet.

To register to attend the Annual Meeting online by webcast you must submit proof of your proxy power (legal proxy) reflecting your Ault Global Holdings along with your name and return itemail address to Computershare. Requests for registration must be labeled as “Legal Proxy” and be received no later than 5:00 P.M., Eastern Time, on July 2, 2021.

You will receive a confirmation of your registration by email after we receive your registration materials.

Requests for registration should be directed to us at the following:

By email:

Forward the email from your broker, or attach an image of your legal proxy, to legalproxy@computershare.com

By mail:

Computershare
Legal Proxy
P.O. Box 43001
Providence, RI 02940-3001

Why are you holding a virtual meeting instead of a physical meeting?

Primarily in light of public health concerns, but we are also embracing the latest technology in order to provide expanded access, improved communication and cost savings for our stockholders and the Company. We believe that hosting a virtual meeting will enable more of our stockholders to safely attend and participate in the enclosed envelope, it will be available for examination onmeeting since our stockholders can participate from any location around the world with Internet through the virtual web conference during the annual meeting.access.

 

Please note that there are separate telephoneHow do I vote?

Either (1) mail your completed and Internet arrangements dependingsigned proxy card(s) to Ault Global Holdings, Inc., 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141, Attention: Corporate Secretary, (2) call the toll-free number printed on whetheryour proxy card(s) and follow the recorded instructions or (3) visit the website indicated on your proxy card(s) and follow the on-line instructions. If you are a registered shareholder (that is, ifstockholder and attend the Annual Meeting, then you holdmay deliver your stockcompleted proxy card(s) or vote pursuant to the instructions on the proxy card. If your shares are held by your broker or bank, in “street name,” then you will receive a form from your own name)broker or bank seeking instructions as to how your shares should be voted. If you holddo not give instructions to your record holder, it will nevertheless be entitled to vote your shares in “street name” (that is, inits discretion on the nameratification of a brokeragethe appointment of the independent registered public accounting firm or bank that holds your securities account). In either case, you must follow the procedures described in the proxy card.(Proposal No. 2), but not on any other proposal.

 


Am I entitled to vote if my shares are held in “street“street name”?

 

If your shares are held by a bank, brokerage firm or other nominee, you are considered the “beneficial“beneficial owner” of shares held in “street name.” If your shares are held in street name, the proxy materials are being made available to you by your bank, brokerage firm or other nominee (the “record holder”), along with voting instructions. As the beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your record holder how to vote your shares, and the record holder is required to vote your shares in accordance with your instructions. If you do not give instructions to your record holder, it will neverthelessnot be entitled to vote your shares in its discretion on the ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public accounting firm (Proposal 2), but not on any other proposal.

 

As the beneficial owner of shares, you are invited to attend the annual meeting.Annual Meeting. If you are a beneficial owner, however, you may not vote your shares at the meetingAnnual Meeting unless you obtain a legal proxy, executed in your favor, from the record holder of your shares.

 

How many shares must be present to hold the online meeting?Annual Meeting?

 

A quorum must be present at the meeting for any business to be conducted. The presence at the meeting, (i) by logging in personto www.meetingcenter.io/281807556; the password is DPW2021, or (ii) by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the shares of Common Stockcapital stock outstanding on the Record Date will constitute a quorum. Proxies received but marked as abstentions or treated as broker non-votes will be included incounted towards the calculation of the number of shares considered to be present at the meeting.quorum.

 

What if a quorum is not present at the online meeting?Annual Meeting?

 

If a quorum is not present or represented at the meeting,Annual Meeting, the holders of a majority of the shares entitled to vote at the meetingAnnual Meeting who are present in person or represented by proxy, or the chairman of the meeting, may adjourn the meetingAnnual Meeting until a quorum is present or represented. The time and place of the adjourned meeting will be announced at the time the adjournment is taken, and no other notice will be given.

 

What do I need in order to be able to attend the online meeting?

The Company will be hosting the 2017 annual meeting live online. You can attend the 2017 annual meeting live online at www._________________________. The webcast will start at 10:00 a.m. PT. You may vote and submit questions while attending the meeting online. You will need the twelve-digit control number included on your proxy card in order to be able to enter the meeting.

How can I vote my shares during the online meeting?

Shares held in your name as the shareholder of record may be voted by you, while the polls remain open, at www._____________________ during the meeting. You will need your twelve-digit control number found in the proxy card. Shares held beneficially in street name may be voted by you at the meeting only if you obtain a legal proxy from the broker, bank, trustee or nominee that holds your shares giving you the right to vote the shares. Even if you plan to attend the online meeting, we recommend that you also submit your proxy or voting instructions as described below so that your vote will be counted if you later decide not to attend the online meeting.

How can I vote my shares without attending the online meeting?

Whether you hold shares directly as the shareholder of record or beneficially in street name, you may direct how your shares are voted without attending the online meeting. If you are a shareholder of record, you may vote by proxy. You can vote by proxy over the Internet or telephone by following the instructions provided on the proxy card. If you hold shares beneficially in street name, you may also vote by proxy over the Internet, telephone or by mail by following the voting instruction card provided to you by your broker, bank, trustee or nominee.

Is there a deadline for submitting proxies electronically or by telephone or mail?

 

Proxies submitted electronically or by telephone as described above must be received by 11:59 pm ETP.M. Pacific Time on ______, 2017.July 2, 2021. Proxies submitted by mail should be received before 10:9:00 am PTA.M. Pacific Time on______, 2017. July 6, 2021.

 

Can I revoke my proxy and change my vote?vote?

 

You may change your vote at any time prior to the taking of the vote at the online meeting. If you are the shareholderstockholder of record, you may change your vote by (1) granting a new proxy bearing a later date (which automatically revokes the earlier proxy) using any of the methods described above (and until the applicable deadline for each method), (2) providing a written notice of revocation to the Company’s CEOExecutive Chairman at Digital Power Corporation, 48430 Lakeview Blvd.Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Fremont, California 94538-3158,11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141, prior to your shares being voted, or (3) virtually attending the online meetingAnnual Meeting and voting.voting in accordance with the instructions on the proxy card. Attendance at the online meetingAnnual Meeting will not cause your previously granted proxy to be revoked unless you specifically so request. For shares you hold beneficially in street name, you may change your vote by submitting new voting instructions to your broker, bank, trustee or nominee following the instructions they provided, or, if you have obtained a legal proxy from your broker, bank, trustee or nominee giving you the right to vote your shares, by attending the online meetingAnnual Meeting and voting.


 

Who can participate in the online meeting?Annual Meeting?

 

Only shareholdersstockholders eligible to vote or their authorized representatives in possession of a valid twelve-digit control number will be admitted as participants to the online meeting.Annual Meeting.

 

Will my vote be kept confidential?

 

Yes, your vote will be kept confidential and not disclosed to the Company unless:

 

required by law;

 

you expressly request disclosure on your proxy; or

 

there is a proxy contest.

 

How does the Board of Directors recommend I vote on the proposals?

 

Our Board recommends that you vote your shares as follows:

 

FOR” the election of each of the six (6) nominees for director;

 ·FOR” the election of the eight (8) director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders;

 

FOR” the ratification of Marcum, LLP, as independent registered public accountants of the Company for its fiscal year ending December 31, 2017;

 ·FOR” the ratification of Marcum LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2021;

 

FOR” approval of the Reincorporation of the Company from California to Delaware;

·FOR” approval of the issuance of 3,850,220 shares of Common Stock upon exercise of warrants issued or issuable to Esousa in connection with certain term promissory notes in an aggregate amount of up to $5,300,000, in order to comply with the listing rules of the NYSE American;

 

FOR” approval of the conversion of up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock, in accordance with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement dated March 9, 2017;

·FOR” approval of the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2021 Plan”);

 

FOR” approval of the conversion of 378,776 shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase up to 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock, in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement dated April 28, 2017;

·FOR” approval of the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2021 ESPP”);

 

FOR” approval of the conversion of 10,000 shares of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock, in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement, dated April 28, 2017;

·FOR” approval of the 2020 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company, in order to comply with the listing rules of the NYSE American; and

 

“FOR” approval of the conversion of a $400,000 Convertible Note convertible into 727,273 shares of Common Stock at $0.55 per share and related warrants to purchase 666,667 shares of Common Stock at $1.10 per share in accordance with the Convertible Note Purchase Agreement dated August 3, 2017;

“FOR” approval of the conversion of $880,000 in the aggregate of Convertible Notes convertible into 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share and related warrants to purchase 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.66 per share in accordance with the Convertible Note Purchase Agreement dated August 10, 2017;

FOR” approval of the exercisability of (i) warrants to purchase 317,460 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share and (ii) options to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.65 per share, and the issuance of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such options and warrants, in accordance with the Executive Employment Agreement (defined herein) dated November 30, 2016, as subsequently amended on February 22, 2017; and


FOR” approval of the adoption of the 2017 Stock Incentive Plan.

·FOR” approval of the 2021 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company, in order to comply with the listing rules of the NYSE American.

 

Unless you provide other instructions on your proxy card, the persons named as proxy holders on the proxy card will vote in accordance with the recommendations of the Board as set forth in this Proxy Statement.

 

What if I do not specify how my shares are to be voted?

 

If you return a signed and dated proxy card without marking any voting selections, your shares will be voted in accordance with the Board’s recommended votes set forth immediately above, and if any other matter is properly presented at the meeting,Annual Meeting, your proxy holder (one of the individuals named on your proxy card) will vote your shares using his best judgment.

 

Will any other business be conducted at the meeting?

 

The Company’s by-lawsCompany’s bylaws require shareholdersstockholders to give advance notice of any proposal intended to be presented at the meeting. The deadline for this notice has passed and weAnnual Meeting. We have not received any such notices. IfAccordingly, the Company does not anticipate any other matter properly comes before the shareholders for a voteadditional business will be conducted at the meeting, however, the proxy holders will vote your shares in accordance with their best judgment.Annual Meeting.

 

How many votes are needed to approve each proposal?

 

For the election of directors, each of the six (6)eight (8) nominees receiving “For” votes at the meeting in person or by proxy will be elected. Approval of all other matters requires the favorable vote of a majority of the votes cast on the applicable matter at the Annual Meeting other than the Reincorporation and the conversion of the Series D Preferred Stock as well as the exercisability issued in connection therewith, which require the favorable vote of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares.Meeting.

 

How will abstentions be treated?

 

Abstentions will be treated as shares present for quorum purposes and entitled to vote, and will have the same practical effect as votes against a proposal except in the case of the election of directors, in which case an abstentionbut will have no impact.impact on votes cast as none of the proposals requires the favorable vote of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock.

 

What are broker non-votes“broker non-votes”?

 

Broker non-votes occur when a beneficial owner of shares held in “street“street name” does not give instructions to the broker or nominee holding the shares as to how to vote on matters deemed “non-routine.” Generally, if shares are held in street name, the beneficial owner of the shares is entitled to give voting instructions to the broker or nominee holding the shares. If the beneficial owner does not provide voting instructions, the broker or nominee can still vote the shares with respect to matters that are considered to be “routine,” but not with respect to “non-routine” matters. Under the rules and interpretations of the New York Stock Exchange, “non-routine” matters include director elections (whether contested or uncontested) and matters involving a contest or a matter that may substantially affect the rights or privileges of shareholders.

In connection with the treatmentstockholders. None of abstentions and broker non-votes, the proposals at this meeting to (i) elect directors, (ii) approveset forth herein is a proposed change in corporate domicile from California to Delaware, (iii) approve“routine” matter other than the issuance of up to 500,000 sharesratification of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock and the issuanceappointment of warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, (iv) approve the issuance of 378,776 shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock, (v) approve the issuance of 10,000 shares of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock; (vi) approve the conversion of a $400,000 Convertible Note convertible into 727,273 shares of Common Stock at $0.55 per share and related warrants to purchase 666,667 shares of Common Stock at $1.10 per share; (vii) approve the conversion of $880,000 in the aggregate of Convertible Notes convertible into 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share and related warrants to purchase 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.66; (viii) approve the 2017 Stock Incentive Plan; and (ix) approve the issuance of warrants to purchase 317,460 shares and options to purchase 1,000,000 shares in accordance with the Executive Employment Agreement, are considered “non-routine” matters, andMarcum; therefore, brokers are not entitled to vote uninstructed shares with respect to any of these proposals. Only the proposal to ratify the appointment of Marcum, LLP, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm is a routine matter that brokers are entitled to vote shares without receiving instructions.


Our election of directors (Proposal No. 1), approval of the proposed change in corporate domicile from California to Delaware (Proposal No. 3), approval of the conversion of up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock into Common Stock and the issuance of warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (Proposal No. 4), approval of the conversion of 378,776 shares of the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock into Common Stock in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement (Proposal No. 5), approval of the conversion of up to 10,000 shares of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement (Proposal No. 6), approval of the conversion of a $400,000 Convertible Note convertible into 727,273 shares of Common Stock at $0.55 per share and related warrants to purchase 666,667 shares of Common Stock at $1.10 per share (Proposal No. 7); approval of the conversion of $880,000 in the aggregate of Convertible Notes convertible into 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share and related warrants to purchase 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.66 (Proposal No. 8); approval of the issuance of warrants to purchase 317,460 shares and options to purchase 1,000,000 shares in accordance with the Executive Employment Agreement (Proposal 9), and approval to adopt the 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (Proposal 10), are considered to be “non-routine” matters and as a result, brokers or nominees cannot vote your shares on these proposals in the absence of your direction.

 

Who is paying for this proxy solicitation?

 

We will pay for the entire cost of soliciting proxies. In addition to these mailed proxy materials, our directors and employees may also solicit proxies in person, by telephone or by other means of communication. Directors and employees will not be paid any additional compensation for soliciting proxies but may be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the solicitation. We will also reimburse brokerage firms, banks and other agents for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in forwarding proxy materials to beneficial owners.

 


 

What does it mean if I receive more than one set of proxy materials?

 

If you receive more than one set of proxy materials, your shares may be registered in more than one name or in different accounts. Please complete, sign and return each proxy card to ensure that all of your shares are voted.

 

I share the same address with another shareholderstockholder of the Company.Company. Why has our household only received one set of proxy materials?

 

The rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SECs”) rules permit us to deliver a single set of proxy materials to one address shared by two or more of our shareholders.stockholders. This practice, known as “householding,” is intended to reduce the Company’s printing and postage costs. We have delivered only one set of proxy materials to shareholdersstockholders who hold their shares through a bank, broker or other holder of record and share a single address, unless we received contrary instructions from any shareholderstockholder at that address. However, any such street name holder residing at the same address who wishes to receive a separate copy of the proxy materials may make such a request by contacting the bank, broker or other holder of record, or ____________ at ___________ or in writing at ____________________________. Street name holders residing at the same address who would like to request householding of Company materials may do so by contacting the bank, broker or other holder of record or___________ at the phone number or address listed above.

 

How can I find out the results of the voting at the Annual Meeting?

 

FinalFinal voting results will be disclosed in a Form 8-K filed after the Annual Meeting.

 

Who can help answer my questions?

 

You can contact our corporate headquarters, at Digital Power Corporation, 48430 Lakeview Blvd.Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Fremont, California 94538-3158, or11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141, by sending a letter to Amos Kohn,Milton C. “Todd” Ault, III, our Chief Executive Officer,Chairman, with any questions about the proposalproposals described in this proxy statementProxy Statement or how to execute your vote.

 


PROPOSAL NO. 1

 

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

 

Information about the Nominees

 

At the Annual Meeting, the shareholdersstockholders will elect six (6)eight (8) directors to serve until the next annual meeting of Shareholdersstockholders or until their respective successors are elected and qualified. In the event any nominee is unable or unwilling to serve as a director at the time of the Annual Meeting, the proxies may be voted for the balance of those nominees named and for any substitute nominee designated by the present Board or the proxy holders to fill such vacancy, or for the balance of the nominees named without nomination of a substitute, or the size of the Board may be reduced in accordance with the Bylaws of the Company. The Board has no reason to believe that any of the persons named below will be unable or unwilling to serve as a nominee or as a director if elected.

 

Assuming a quorum is present, the six (6)eight (8) nominees receiving the highest number of affirmative votes of shares entitled to be voted for them will be elected as directors of the Company for the ensuing year. Unless marked otherwise, proxies received will be voted “FOR” the election of each of the eight nominees named below. In the event that additional persons are nominated for election as directors, the proxy holders intend to vote all proxies received by them in such a manner as will ensure the election of as many of the nominees listed below as possible, and, in such event, the specific nominees to be voted for will be determined by the proxy holders. All of the director nominees currently serve as directors.

NameAgeCurrent PositionServed As a Director and Officer Since
Milton C. Ault, III50Executive Chairman2017
William B. Horne52Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman2016
Henry Nisser52President, General Counsel and Director2019
Howard Ash (1) (5)61Independent Director2020
Glen Tellock (2) (4) (6)60Independent Director(x)
Jeffrey A. Bentz (3) (5)60Independent Director2018
Robert O. Smith (4) (7)76Independent Director2016
Moti Rosenberg (5) (7)73Independent Director2015

 

NAME

(1)

AGE

CURRENT POSITION

Chair of the Audit Committee
(2)Chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

Amos Kohn

(3)

57

President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Director (Principal Executive and Financial Officers)

Chair of the Compensation Committee

Milton “Todd” Ault, III*

(4)

47

Executive ChairmanMember of the Board of Directors

Audit Committee

Kristine Ault*

(5)

47

Director

Member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

Robert O. Smith

(6)

73

As of the date of this Proxy Statement Mr. Tellock is a Director

Nominee. All his positions presume he will be appointed and then elected by our stockholders.

William Horne*

(7)

49

Director

Moti Rosenberg

70

Director

Member of the Compensation Committee

 

*     Pursuant to a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”) dated September 5, 2016, by and among the Company, Philou Ventures, LLC, a Wyoming limited liability company, and Telkoor Telecom Ltd., an Israeli company, Philou Ventures has the right to designate up to four directors to the Board.

The following information with respect to the principal occupation or employment of each nominee for director, the principal business of the corporation or other organization in which such occupation or employment is carried on, and such nominee’s business experience during the past five years, as well as the specific experiences, qualifications, attributes and skills that have led the Board to determine that such Board members should serve on our Board, has been furnished to the Company by the respective director nominees:

 

Amos Kohn.Milton C. Ault, III

On January 12, 2021, Mr. Kohn has servedAult resigned as a member of our board of directors since 2003, as our President and Chief Executive Officer since 2008. Fromand was appointed as the Executive Chairman of the Board. On December 28, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed Chief Executive Officer. On March 2011 until August 2013 Mr. Kohn also served as interim Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Kohn has more than 20 years of successful global executive management experience, including multiple C-level roles across private and established publicly-traded companies. Mr. Kohn has successfully managed cross-functional teams, driven corporations to high profitability, built customer loyalty and led businesses through expansion and sustained growth. His areas of expertise include operations, technology innovation, manufacturing, strategic analysis and planning and M&A. Mr. Kohn was Vice President of Business Development at Scopus Video Networks, Inc., a Princeton, New Jersey company that develops and markets digital video networking products (2006-2007); Vice President of Solutions Engineering at ICTV Inc., a leading provider of network-based streaming media technology solutions for digital video and web-driven programming, located in Los Gatos, California (2003-2006); Chief Architect at Liberate Technologies, a leading company in the development of a full range of digital media processing for telecom and cable TV industries, located in San Carlos, California (2000-2003); and Executive Vice President of Engineering and Technology at Golden Channel & Co., the largest cable television multiple-systems operator (MSO) in Israel, where he had executive responsibility for developing and implementing the entire nationwide cable TV system (1989-2000). Mr. Kohn holds a degree in electrical and electronics engineering and is named as an inventor on several United States and international patents. We believe that Mr. Kohn’s extensive executive-level management experience in diversified industries, including, but not limited to, power electronics, telecommunications, cable television, broadcast and wireless, as well as his service as a director on our board since 2003, give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.


Milton C.Todd Ault, III.16, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed Executive Chairman of the Boardboard of directors. Mr. Ault entered into an employment agreement with us on March 16, 2017.June 17, 2018. Mr. Ault is a seasoned business professional and entrepreneur thatwho has spent more than twenty-seven years identifying value in various financial markets including equities, fixed income, commodities, and real estate. On February 25, 2016, Mr. Ault founded on February 25, 2016 Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’s Disease and has served as its Chairman ever since. Mr. Ault has served as Chairman of Ault & Company, Inc., a Delaware holding company, since December 2015, and as Chairman of Avalanche International CorpCorp., a publicly traded Nevada company and a “voluntary filer,” which as such is not required to file periodic reports, since September 2014. Since January 2011, Mr. Ault has been the Vice President of Business Development for MCKEA Holdings, LLC, a family office. Through this position,Throughout his career, Mr. Ault has consulted for a few publicly traded and privately held companies, providing each of them the benefit of his diversified experience, that range from development stage to seasoned businesses. He was the President, Chief Executive Officer, Director and Chairman of the Board of Zealous, Inc. from August 2007 until June 4, 2010 and again from February 2011 through May 1, 2011. Mr. Ault was a registered representative at Strome Securities, LP, from July 1998 until December 2005, where he was involved in portfolio management and worked on several activism campaigns including Taco Cabana, Jack In The Box (formerly Foodmaker), and 21st Century Holdings Co. Mr. Ault became majority shareholder of Franklin Capital Corp and was elected to its board of directors in July 2004 and became its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in October 2004 serving until January 2006, and again from July 2006 to January 2007. In April 2005, the company changed its name to Patient Safety Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB: PSTX) (“PST”) and purchased SurgiCount Medical, Inc. Stryker Corporation (NYSE:SYK) acquired PST at the beginning of 2014 in a deal valued at approximately one hundred twenty million dollars ($120,000,000). PST’s wholly owned operating subsidiary, SurgiCount Medical, Inc., is the company that developed the SafetySponge® System; a bar coding technology for inventory control that aims to detect and prevent the incidence of foreign objects left in the body after surgery. We believe that Mr. Ault’s business background demonstrates he has the qualifications to serve as one of our directors and as Executive Chairman.

 

Kristine Ault. Ms. AultWilliam B. Horne

Mr. Horne has served as a member of our board of directorsBoard since October 13, 2016. She is a seasoned business woman who hasOn January 19, 2021, Mr. Horne resigned as President and was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer. On August 19, 2020, Mr. Horne resigned as our Chief Financial Officer and was appointed as our President. He was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer on January 25, 2018. Prior to his appointment as our Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Horne served as one of our independent directors. He served as the managing memberChief Financial Officer of Targeted Medical Pharma, Inc. (OTCBB: TRGM) from August 2013 to May 2019. Mr. Horne is a director and Chief Financial Officer of Avalanche International, Corp., a “voluntary filer” under the Exchange Act. Mr. Horne has served on the board of directors of Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, since June 1, 2016. Mr. Horne previously held the position of Chief Financial Officer in various public and private holding companycompanies in the healthcare and high-tech field. Mr. Horne has a Bachelor of Arts Magna Cum Laude in Accounting from Seattle University. We believe that makes equity investmentsMr. Horne's extensive financial and accounting experience in other operating businesses since 2011diversified industries and with companies involving complex transactions give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

Henry C. W. Nisser

Mr. Nisser has served as a member of our Board since September 17, 2020 and was appointed as our Executive Vice President and General counsel on May 1, 2019. On January 19, 2021, Mr. Nisser resigned as Executive Vice President and was appointed as the President. Mr. Nisser is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Avalanche International, Corp., a “voluntary filer” under the Exchange Act. Mr. Nisser has served on the board of directors of Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, since September 1, 2020 and has served as its Executive Vice President and General Counsel since May 1, 2019. From October 2016. Prior31, 2011 through April 26, 2019, Mr. Nisser was an associate and subsequently a partner with Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP (“SRF”), a law firm based in New York City. While with SRF, his practice was concentrated in national and international corporate law, with a particular focus on U.S. securities law, public as well as private M&A, equity and debt financings and corporate governance. Mr. Nisser drafted and negotiated a variety of agreements related to that, she workedreorganizations, share and asset purchases, indentures, public and private offerings, tender offers and going private transactions. Mr. Nisser also represented clients’ special committees established to evaluate M&A transactions and advised such committees’ members with respect to their fiduciary duties. Mr. Nisser is fluent in French and Swedish as well as conversant in Italian. Mr. Nisser received his B.A. from Connecticut College in 1992, where he majored in International Relations and Economics. He received his LLB from the finance departmentUniversity of Strome Securities, L.P.Buckingham School of Law in Santa Monica, California. Ms. Ault was appointed as Trustee for a private trust in 1997 and currently administers four private trusts. Her work experience ranges from ABC Cable Networks to the vineyards of Sonoma and Napa Valley. Ms. Ault holds a B.A. degree in Radio-Television-Film and minor in Business Administration from California State University Northridge. She also received an A.A in Natural Sciences and Mathematics from Napa Valley College.1999. We believe that Ms. Ault’s experiences, attributesMr. Nisser’s extensive legal experience involving complex transactions and abilities in business administrationcomprehensive knowledge of securities laws and accounting with equity investmentscorporate governance requirements applicable to listed companies give herhim the qualifications and skill setskills to serve as one of our directors.

 

Howard Ash

Mr. Ash serves as one of our independent directors. Mr. Ash is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in business and finance, who served as CEO, COO and CFO to a variety of high profile, international companies. Mr. Ash continues to serve as Chairman of Claridge Management since 2000. Mr. Ash was a director of Net Element, Inc., (NASDAQ-NETE) from June 13, 2016 through July 13, 2020 serving as Chairman of both the Audit and Compensation committees, as well as the Nominating and Governance Committees during his tenure. He served as Chief Operating Officer of BioCard Corporation from 1997 to 2007. He served as Chief Operating Officer of CITA Americas, Inc. from 1996 to 1997. Mr. Ash served as Chief Executive Officer of IEDC Marketing, Inc. from 1992 to 1996. He held a CFO/Chief Strategist position at Abrams, Ash & Associates from 1990 to 1992. Mr. Ash currently serves on the Advisory Board of the UK based E2Exchange, the Institute of Entrepreneurs, since 2011, and is the only non-UK citizen holding that position. Mr. Ash served from 2009 to 2014 in a senior development and strategic capacity for One Laptop Per Child, a global NGO created to provide educational opportunities providing laptops to the world’s poorest children. Prior Chairmanships include the 2009 through 2012 term for the Sturge Weber Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to curing this rare but fatal syndrome affecting children. Previously, Mr. Ash was an Advisory Board Member to Edge Global Investment Limited which forged a strategic partnership with the Africa Forum, consisting of 37 former Heads of State and Government. Mr. Ash started an interest-free micro-loan society in 1987 that has provided more than $15 million in micro-loans throughout the United States and Israel. In 1999, Mr. Ash founded the Circle of Life Resource Center, Inc., a food bank in Miami, Florida that feeds several hundred families per week. Howard earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree, with Honors in Accounting and Law from the University of Witwatersrand (South Africa) in 1980. We believe that Mr. Ash’s extensive experience as a business and finance executive and member of multiple oversight bodies, provides him with the necessary skills to be qualified to serve as one of our directors.

Glen Tellock

Mr. Tellock has been the President and CEO of Lakeside Foods, a privately-held international food processor, since May 2016 and plans to retire from this position effective May 2021. Previously, he served as the President and CEO of The Manitowoc Company, a manufacturer of construction and food service equipment, from May 2007 until October 2015. He also served as Chairman of the Board of The Manitowoc Company from February 2009 until October 2015. Prior thereto, he served as Senior Vice President of The Manitowoc Company beginning in 1999 and President and General Manager of Manitowoc Crane Group beginning in 2002. Prior to joining Manitowoc in 1991, Mr. Tellock served as Financial Planning Manager with the Denver Post Corporation and as Audit Manager with Ernst and Whinney (now Ernst & Young, LLP). Mr. Tellock also currently serves as a director on the board of Badger Meter, Inc. and Astec Industries, Inc. Mr. Tellock, who serves as one of the financial experts of the Company’s Audit Committee and has previously served as an audit manager of a major accounting firm, provides the Board with extensive knowledge and experience with respect to financial reporting and risk assessment. We believe that Mr. Tellock’s extensive experience as a business executive, depth of public company leadership experience, expertise in managing complex manufacturing operations and knowledge in leading a multi-billion-dollar global company as well as his experience with financial reporting and risk assessment give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

Jeffrey A. Bentz

Mr. Bentz serves as one of our independent directors. Mr. Bentz is an experienced businessman who has served since 1994 as President of North Star Terminal & Stevedore Company, a full-service stevedoring company located in Alaska and whose major areas of business include terminal operations and management, stevedore services, and heavy equipment operations. He also has served as a director and advisor to several private companies and agencies. Mr. Bentz obtained a B.A. in Business and Finance from Western Washington University in 1981. We believe that Mr. Bentz’s executive-level experience, including his operational and financial oversight of companies with multiple profit centers and his extensive experience in the real estate and commercial services industries give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

Robert O. Smith.

Mr. Smith serves as one of our independent directors. Previously, he served as a member of our Board of Directors from November 2010 until May 2015, and served as a member of our Advisory Board from 2002 until 2015. He is currently a C-level executive consultant working with Bay Area high-tech firms on various strategic initiatives in all aspects of their business. From 2004 to 2007, he served on the Board of Directors of Castelle Corporation. From 1990 to 2002, he was our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. From 1980 to 1990, he held several management positions with Computer Products, Inc., the most recent being President of their Compower/Boschert Division. From 1970 to 1980, he held managerial accounting positions with Ametek/Lamb Electric and with the JM Smucker Company. Mr. Smith received his BBA degree in Accounting from Ohio University. We believe that Mr. Smith’s executive-level experience, including his previous service as our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, his extensive experience in the accounting industry, and his service on our Board from November 2010 until May 2015, give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

William Horne.Mr. Horne has served as an independent member of our board of directors since October 13, 2016. He has served as the Chief Financial Officer of Targeted Medical Pharma, Inc. (OTCBB: TRGM) since August 2013 and has served as a member of our board of directors since October 2016. Mr. Horne is a director of and chief financial officer to Avalanche International, Co. Mr. Horne previously held the position of Chief Financial Officer in various companies in the healthcare and high-tech field, including OptimisCorp, from January 2008 to May 2013, a privately held, diversified healthcare technology company located in Los Angeles, California. Mr. Horne served as the Chief Financial Officer of Patient Safety Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: PSTX), a medical device company located in Irvine, California, from June 2005 to October 2008 and as the interim Chief Executive Officer from January 2007 to April 2008. In his dual role at Patient Safety Technologies, Mr. Horne was directly responsible for structuring the divestiture of non-core assets, capital financings and debt restructuring. Mr. Horne held the position of Managing Member & Chief Financial Officer of Alaska Wireless Communications, LLC, a privately held, advanced cellular communications company, from its inception in May 2002 until November 2007. Mr. Horne was responsible for negotiating the sale of Alaska Wireless to General Communication Inc. (NASDAQ: GNCMA). From November 1996 to December 2001, Mr. Horne held the position of Chief Financial Officer of The Phoenix Partners, a venture capital limited partnership located in Seattle, Washington. Mr. Horne has also held supervisory positions at Price Waterhouse, LLP and has a Bachelor of Arts Magna Cum Laude in Accounting from Seattle University. We believe that Mr. Horne’s extensive financial and accounting experience in diversified industries and with companies involving complex transactions give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.Mordechai Rosenberg


Moti Rosenberg. Mr. Rosenberg serves as one of our independent directors. He has served as an independent consultant to various companies in the design and implementation of homeland security systems in Europe and Africa since 2010. From 2004 to 2009, he served as a special consultant to Bullet Plate Ltd., a manufacturer of armor protection systems, and NovIdea Ltd., a manufacturer of perimeter and border security systems. From 2000 to 2003, Mr. Rosenberg was the general manager of ZIV U.P.V.C Products Ltd.’s's doors and window factory. Mr. Rosenberg is an active reserve officer and a retired colonel from the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), where he served for 26 years and was involved in the development of weapon systems. In the IDF, Mr. Rosenberg served in various capacities, including platoon, company, battalion and brigade commander, head of the training center for all IDF infantry, and head of the Air Force’sForce's Special Forces. Mr. Rosenberg received a B.A in History from the University of Tel Aviv and a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Haifa in Israel. We believe that Mr. Rosenberg’s business background give him the qualifications to serve as one of our directors.

 

Directors serve until the next annual meeting of shareholdersstockholders or until their successors are elected and qualified. Officers serve at the discretion of the Board.

 

Status of Certain Issuers with which Messrs. Ault, Horne and Nisser Are Involved.

Avalanche International Corp.

As of the Record Date, Avalanche International Corp. (“Avalanche”) had not filed its (i) Annual Reports on Form 10-K for its fiscal years ended November 30, 2016, November 30, 2017, November 30, 2018, November 30, 2019 or November 30, 2020 (ii) its Quarterly Reports for its fiscal quarters ended February 28, 2017, May 31, 2017, August 31, 2017, February 28, 2018, May 31, 2018, August 31, 2018, February 28, 2019, May 31, 2019, August 31, 2019, February 29, 2020, May 31, 2020, August 31, 2020 or February 28, 2020. While Avalanche is a “voluntary filer,” it has not filed a Form 15, nor does it intend to.

As of the Record Date, Avalanche had 6 employees and 2 principal consultants, total assets of approximately $23.0 million, total liabilities of approximately $29.0 million, total stockholders’ deficit of approximately $6.0 million, total annual revenues of approximately $250,000 and total annual expenses of approximately $2.4 million for a net loss of $2.2 million. None of the foregoing figures has been audited.

Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

 

Except as disclosed below, to our knowledge, none of our current directors or executive officers has, during the past ten years:

 

 

been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);

 

had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against the business or property of the person, or of any partnership, corporation or business association of which he or she was a general partner or executive officer, either at the time of the bankruptcy filing or within two years prior to that time;

 

been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction or federal or state authority, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting, his or her involvement in any type of business, securities, futures, commodities, investment, banking, savings and loan, or insurance activities, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity;

 

been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated;

 

been the subject of, or a party to, any federal or state judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated (not including any settlement of a civil proceeding among private litigants), relating to an alleged violation of any federal or state securities or commodities law or regulation, any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order, or any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity; or

 

been the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.

 

1.Mr. Ault held series 7, 24, and 63 licenses and managed four domestic hedge funds and one bond fund from 1998 through 2008. On April 26, 2012, as a result from an investigation by FINRA involving activities during 2008, Mr. Ault agreed to a settlement with FINRA in which he did not admit to any liability or violation of any laws or regulatory rules and that included restitution and a suspension from association with a FINRA member firm for a period of two years. As part of that settlement, Mr. Ault agreed that he would make restitution to certain investors. Mr. Ault did not within the prescribed time period make a restitution payment to certain of the investors as he was unable to locate all of them, nor did he forward the undistributed restitution in the state where the investor was known to have resided, as directed by FINRA.

2.     Mr. Ault was CEO, President and Chairman of Zealous Holdings, Inc. that filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) on February 20, 2009, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California. This Chapter 11 filing was subsequently converted to a Chapter 7 filing by order of the Bankruptcy Court. Zealous Holdings, Inc. was not an entity that was entitled to a discharge under the bankruptcy code. As such Zealous Holdings, Inc. did not receive a discharge. Ultimately, Zealous Holdings, Inc. ceased doing business and was permanently closed.

3.     Mr. Ault filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) on December 8, 2009, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California. This Chapter 13 filing was subsequently converted to a Chapter 7 filing by order of the Bankruptcy Court and months later, the petition being withdrawn and dismissed without prejudice.


 

Except as set forth in our discussion below in “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” none of our directors or executive officers has been involved in any transactions with us or any of our directors, executive officers, affiliates or associates which are required to be disclosed pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC.

 

Family Relationships.Relationships

 

Milton C. Ault, III and Kristine Ault are spouses.None.

 

Board Independence

 

Our Board has undertaken a review of the independence of each director and director nominee and has determined that Messrs. Ash, Smith, HorneBentz, Tellock and Rosenberg are independent, and that each director who serves on or is nominated for each of its committees is independent, as such term is defined by standards of the SEC and the NYSE American. None of Messrs. Kohn and Ault, nor Ms. Ault meetsHorne or Nisser meet the independence standards.

 

ShareholderStockholder Communications with the Board

 

The Company’s shareholdersCompany’s stockholders may communicate with the Board, including non-executive directors or officers, by sending written communications addressed to such person or persons in care of Digital Power Corporation.Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Attention: Secretary, 48430 Lakeview Blvd., Fremont, California 94538-3158.11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141. All communications will be compiled by the Secretary and submitted to the addressee. If the Board modifies this process, the revised process will be posted on the Company’s website.

 

Meetings and Committees of the Board

 

During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016,2020, the Board held five34 meetings and acted by unanimous written consent 33 times, the Audit Committee held three meetings,one meeting, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee held one meetingdid not hold any meetings and the Compensation Committee held one meeting.four meetings. The BoardCompensation Committee acted by unanimous written consent twice. The Audit Committee and Board committees alsothe Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee approved certainno actions by unanimous written consent. We encourage, but do not require, our Board members to attend the annual meeting of shareholders. Amos Kohn attended our 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.stockholders.

 

Board Committees

 

The Board has standing Audit, and Compensation and Nominating and Governance Committees. Information concerning the membership and function of each committee is as follows:

 

Name

 

Audit Committee

 

Nominating and Governance Committee

Compensation Committee

Howard Ash 

Nominating and

GovernanceCommittee

** ***
* 

Amos Kohn

Glen Tellock (1)
* *****
Jeffrey A. Bentz   ***
Robert O. Smith* ****
Moti Rosenberg   

Milton “Todd” Ault, III

*

Kristine Ault

Robert O. Smith

*

**

*

William Horne

** ***

*

*

Moti Rosenberg

*

*

**

 

* Member of Committee

** Chairman of Committee

*** “Audit“Audit committee financial expert” as defined in SEC regulations.

(1)Mr. Tellock has not been appointed to the Board as of the date of this Proxy Statement. This table shows, with respect to Mr. Tellock, his anticipated committee assignments.

 

Audit Committee

 

Messrs. Horne,Ash, Smith and RosenbergBentz currently comprise the Audit Committee of our Board.Board, but we expect to nominate Mr. Tellock as Mr. Bentz’s replacement on the Audit Committee subsequent to the Annual Meeting. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Audit Committee satisfies the requirements for independence and financial literacy under the standards of the SEC and the NYSE American. Our Board has also determined that Mr. Horneeach of Messrs. Ash, Smith and Tellock qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in SEC regulations and satisfies the financial sophistication requirements set forth in the NYSE American Rules.rules. Mr. HorneAsh serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee.


 

The Audit Committee is responsible for, among other things, selecting and hiring our independent auditors, approving the audit and pre-approving any non-audit services to be performed by our independent auditors; reviewing the scope of the annual audit undertaken by our independent auditors and the progress and results of their work; reviewing our financial statements, internal accounting and auditing procedures, and corporate programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws; and reviewing the services performed by our independent auditors to determine if the services rendered are compatible with maintaining the independent auditorsauditors’ impartial opinion. The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed with management the Company’s audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2016.2020

 

Nominating and Governance Committee

Ms. Brichan and Messrs. Ash, Bentz and Rosenberg currently comprise the Nominating and Governance Committee of our Board but we expect to nominate Mr. Tellock as Ms. Brichan’s replacement on the Nominating and Governance Committee subsequent to the Annual Meeting and that he will chair this committee. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Nominating and Governance Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American.

The Nominating and Governance Committee is responsible for, among other things, assisting our Board in identifying prospective director nominees and recommending nominees for each annual meeting of stockholders to the Board; developing and recommending governance principles applicable to our Board; overseeing the evaluation of our Board and management; and recommending potential members for each Board committee to our Board.

The Nominating and Governance Committee considers diversity when identifying Board candidates. In particular, it considers such criteria as a candidate’s broad-based business and professional skills, experiences and global business and social perspective. In addition, the Committee seeks directors who exhibit personal integrity and a concern for the long-term interests of stockholders, as well as those who have time available to devote to Board activities and to enhancing their knowledge of the Company’s areas of operation. Accordingly, we seek to attract and retain highly qualified directors who have sufficient time to attend to their substantial duties and responsibilities.

Compensation Committee

 

Messrs. Horne,Bentz, Smith and Rosenberg currently comprise the Compensation Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Compensation Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American. Mr. SmithBentz serves as Chairman of the Compensation Committee.

 

The Compensation Committee is responsible for, among other things, reviewing and approving executive compensation policies and practices; reviewing and approving salaries, bonuses and other benefits paid to our officers, including our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer;President; and administering our stock option plans and other benefit plans.plans.

 

Nominating and Governance Committee

Messrs. Smith, Horne, and Rosenberg currently comprise the Nominating and Governance Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Nominating and Governance Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American. Mr. Rosenberg serves as Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee.

The Nominating and Governance Committee is responsible for, among other things, assisting our Board in identifying prospective director nominees and recommending nominees for each annual meeting of shareholders to the Board; developing and recommending governance principles applicable to our Board; overseeing the evaluation of our Board and management; and recommending potential members for each Board committee to our Board.

The Nominating and Governance Committee considers diversity when identifying Board candidates. In particular, it considers such criteria as a candidate’s broad-based business and professional skills, experiences and global business and social perspective.

In addition, the Committee seeks directors who exhibit personal integrity and a concern for the long-term interests of shareholders, as well as those who have time available to devote to Board activities and to enhancing their knowledge of the power-supply industry. Accordingly, we seek to attract and retain highly qualified directors who have sufficient time to attend to their substantial duties and responsibilities.

Board Leadership Structure and Role in Risk Oversight

 

Our Board as a whole is responsible for our risk oversight. Our executive officers address and discuss with our Board our risks and the manner in which we manage or mitigate such risks. While our Board has the ultimate responsibility for our risk oversight, our Board works in conjunction with its committees on certain aspects of its risk oversight responsibilities. In particular, our Audit Committee focuses on financial reporting risks and related controls and procedures; our Compensation Committee evaluates the risks associated with our compensation philosophy and programs and strives to create compensation practices that do not encourage excessive levels of risk taking that would be inconsistent with our strategies and objectives; and our Nomination and Governance Committee oversees risks associated with our Code of Ethical Conduct.

 

We currently separate the positions of President/Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. The Board believes that such structure is in the best interest of the Company at this time, as it allows for a more effective monitoring and objective evaluation of the performance of management.

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our executive officers and directors and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered class of our equity securities to file an initial report of ownership on Form 3 and changes in ownership on Form 4 or Form 5 with the SEC. Executive officers, directors and ten percent shareholdersstockholders are also required by SEC rules to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. Based solely upon our review of Forms 3, 4 and 5 received by us, or written representations from certain reporting persons, we believe that during the during current fiscal year and the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, all such filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and ten percent shareholdersstockholders were fulfilled with the following exceptions.


exception: During the fiscal year 2016, Messrs. Horne, Smith and Rosenberg, and Ms. Ault eachof 2020, all directors inadvertently filed one late one Form 4 reporting one transaction and Mr. Kohn inadvertently file three Forms 4s late reporting eight transactions.transaction.  

 

Code of Ethics

 

The Board has established a corporateadopted an Amended and Restated Code of Business Conduct and Ethics for Employees, Executive Officers and Directors (the “Code”) which qualifies as a “code“code of ethics” as defined by Item 406 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). The Board has adopted the Code of Ethical Conduct that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller or person performing similar functions (collectively, the “Financial Managers”).as well as all our employees. The Code of Ethical Conduct is designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote honest and ethical conduct and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The full text of our Code of Ethical Conduct is published on our website at www.digipwr.com.www.aultglobal.com. We will disclose any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethical Conduct or any waivers, explicit or implicit, from a provision of the Code on our website or in a current report on Form 8-K. Upon request to our President and CEO, Amos Kohn,Executive Chairman, Milton C. Ault, III, we will provide without charge, a copy of our Code of Ethical Conduct.Code.

 

Among other matters, the Code of Conduct is designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote:

 

·

honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships;

 

·

full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in our SEC reports and other public communications;

 

·

compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations;

 

·

prompt internal reporting of violations of the Code of Conduct to appropriate persons identified in the code; and

 

·

accountability for adherence to the Code of Conduct.

Code.

 

Waivers to the Code of Conduct may be granted only by the Board upon recommendation of the Audit Committee. In the event that the Board grants any waivers of the elements listed above to any of our officers, we expect to promptly disclose the waiver as required by law or the private regulatory body.

 

Director Compensation

 

For 2016, and thereafter,Beginning July 1, 2019, the Company pays each independent director $20,000an annual base amount of $35,000 annually, other than Mr. Smith, who will receive $30,000receives a base amount of $45,000 annually due to anticipated additional services to be provided by Mr. Smith as a lead independent director.

On November 22, 2016, each non-employee director received optionsand Mr. Ash, who receives a base amount of $45,000 annually due to purchase 200,000 sharesadditional services provided by Mr. Ash as Audit Committee Chairman. Additionally, our Board makes recommendations for adjustments to an independent director’s compensation when the level of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.70 per share. The optionsservices provided are subject to vesting of which one-third vested immediately and the remaining unvested options will vest equally on the subsequent anniversary dates.significantly above what was anticipated. 

On December 28, 2016, the shareholders approved the 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the 2016 Stock Incentive Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 4,000,000 shares of Common Stock may be granted to the Company’s directors, officers, employees and consultants. The 2016 Stock Incentive Plan is in addition to the Company’s current 2012 Plan, which provides for the issuance of a maximum of 1,372,630 shares of the Company’s Common Stock to be offered to the Company’s directors, officers, employees, and consultants.

Effective November 1, 2016, Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, Milton C. “Todd” Ault, III, began receiving a monthly fee of $15,000 pursuant to a consulting agreement entered into with the Company.


 

The table below sets forth, for each non-employee director, the total amount of compensation related to his or her service during the year ended December 31, 2016:2020:

 

Name

 

Fees

Earned

or Paid

in Cash

($)

 

 

Warrant

Awards

($)

 

 

Option

Awards

($)

 

 

Non-Equity

Incentive

Plan

Compensation

($)

 

 

Nonqualified

Deferred

Compensation

Earnings

($)

 

 

All Other

Compensation

($)

 

 

Total

($)

 

Amos Kohn (1)

 

$

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

[fill in]

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

Milton C. Ault, III (2)

 

$

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

-

   

-

   

-

   

-

    

 

Kristine Ault (3)

 

$

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

32,145

(4)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

 

 

Robert O. Smith

 

$

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

32,145

(4)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

 

 

William Horne (3)

 

$

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

32,145

(4)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

 

 

Moti Rosenberg

 

$

       

$

[fill in]

              

$

  
  Fees earned or  Stock  Option  All other    
Name paid in cash ($)  awards ($)  awards ($)  compensation ($)  Total ($) 
Robert O. Smith  70,000            70,000 
Jeffrey A. Bentz  60,000            60,000 
Mordechai Rosenberg  60,000            60,000 
Jodi Brichan  55,000            55,000 
Howard Ash (1)  38,750            38,750 

 

(1)Mr. Ash was appointed as an independent director on August 13, 2020 and earned compensation from that date.

Mr. Kohn was appointed to the Board on August 4, 2003.

(2)

Mr. Ault was appointed as Executive Chairman of the Board on March 16, 2017.

(3)

Ms. Ault and Mr. Horne were each appointed to the Board on October 13, 2016.

(4)

Effective November 2016, the non-employee directors received options to purchase 200,000 shares at $0.70 per share with one-third of the grant to vest immediately and the remaining two-thirds to vest over the remaining two anniversary dates.

 

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

The election of the directors of the Company requires the affirmative vote of a plurality of the shares of the Company’sCompany’s Common Stock present in person or represented by Proxyproxy at the Annual Meeting, which will be the nominees receiving the largest number of votes, which may or may not constitute a majority.

 

TheThe Board unanimously recommends athat the stockholders vote FOR“for” each of its nomineesthe director nominees.

 

14

 

PROPOSAL NO. 2

 

RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF OURINDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

The Audit Committee has appointed the firm of Marcum LLP, as the independent registered public accounting firm of the Company for the year ending December 31, 2017,2021, subject to ratification of the appointment by the Company’s shareholders. Astockholders. No representative of Marcum LLP is expected to attend the Annual Meeting to respond to appropriate questions and will have an opportunity to make a statement if he or she so desires.Meeting.

 

Review of the Companys Audited Financial StatementsCompany’s Audited Financial Statements for the Fiscal Year Ended Fiscal Year Ended December 31,, 2016 2020

 

The Audit Committee met and held discussions with management and the independent auditors. Management represented to the Audit Committee that the Company’sCompany’s consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and the Audit Committee reviewed and discussed the consolidated financial statements with management and the independent auditors. The Audit Committee also discussed with the independent auditors the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 114 (Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards, AU 380), as amended.

 

In addition, the Audit Committee discussed with the independent auditors the auditorsauditors’ independence from the Company and its management, and the independent auditors provided to the Audit Committee the written disclosures and letter required by the Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1 (Independence Discussions With Audit Committees).

 

The Audit Committee discussed with the Company’sCompany’s independent auditors the overall scope and plans for their respective audits. The Audit Committee met with the independent auditors, with and without management present, to discuss the results of their examinations and the overall quality of the Company’s internal controls and financial reporting.

 

Based on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee approved the audited financial statements be included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20162020 for filing with the SEC.

 

Fees Paid to AuditorsAuditor

 

Audit Fees

 

The aggregate fees billed for each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountants Marcum, LLP, with respect to the yearyears ended December 31, 2016 (“Marcum”)2020 and Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global, with respect to the year ended December 31, 2015 (“Kost Forer”),2019, for our audit of annual financial statements and review of financial statements included in our quarterly reports or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years were:

 

Marcum

 

2016

 

$

129,545

 

Kost Forer

 

2015

 

$

100,000

 
2020  $751,594 
2019  $775,620 

 

Audit-Related Fees

 

We did not incur fees to our independent registered public accounting firm for audit related fees during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.2020 or 2019.

 

Tax and Other Fees

 

We did not incur fees to our independent registered public accounting firm for tax services during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.2020 or 2019.

 

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

 

Consistent with SEC policies and guidelines regarding audit independence, the Audit Committee is responsible for the pre-approval of all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our principal accountants on a case-by-case basis. Our Audit Committee has established a policy regarding approval of all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our principal accountants. Our Audit Committee pre-approves these services by category and service. Our Audit Committee has pre-approved all of the services provided by our principal accountants.


 

REPORTOF THEAUDIT COMMITTEE OFTHE BOARD OFDIRECTORS

 

The Audit Committee of the Board of Digital Power CorporationAult Global Holdings, Inc. has furnished the following report on its activities during the fiscal year ended December 31,, 2016. 2020. The report is not deemed to be soliciting material“soliciting material” or filed“filed” with the SEC or subject to the SECsSEC’s proxy rules oror to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, and the report shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any prior or subsequent filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that Digital Power CorporationAult Global Holdings, Inc. specifically incorporates it by reference into any such filing.

 

The Audit Committee oversees the financial reporting process on behalf of the Board. Management has the primary responsibility for the financial reporting process, principles and internal controls as well as preparation of our financial statements. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016,2020, the members of the Audit Committee were Messrs. Horne,Ash, Smith and Rosenberg,Bentz, each of whom was an independent director as defined by the applicable NYSE American and SEC rules.

 

In fulfilling its responsibilities, the Audit Committee appointed independent auditors Marcum LLP, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016.2020. The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed with the independent auditors the overall scope and specific plans for their audit. The Audit Committee also reviewed and discussed with the independent auditors and with management the Company’s audited financial statements and the adequacy of its internal controls. The Audit Committee met with the independent auditors, without management present, to discuss the results of our independent auditor’s audits, their evaluations of the Company’s internal controls and the overall quality of the Company’s financial reporting.

 

The Audit Committee monitored the independence and performance of the independent auditors. The Audit Committee discussed with the independent auditors the matters required to be discussed by Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) Auditing Standard No. 16—Communications with Audit Committees. The Company’s independent auditors have provided the Audit Committee with the written disclosures and the letter required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent auditors’ communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence, and the Audit Committee has discussed with the independent auditor the independent auditor’s independence. Based upon the review and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the audited financial statements be included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016,2020, for filing with the SEC.

 

Mr. William B. Horne, Howard Ash, Mr. Robert O. Smith and Mr. Jeffrey Bentz, Mr.Moti Rosenberg

 

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

The ratification of the appointment of the Company’sCompany’s independent auditors requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends athat the stockholders vote FOR“for” the ratification of Marcum LLP,as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 20172021.

 

16

 

PROPOSAL NO. 3

 

APPROVAL OF THE REINCORPORATIONEXERCISE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE UP TO 3,850,220 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH RULE 713 OF THE COMPANY FROM CALIFORNIA TO DELAWARENYSE AMERICAN

 

OverviewTerms of the Transactions

 

We are seeking shareholder approval to grant the Board discretionary authority to change the Company’s state of incorporation from California to DelawareOctober 22, 2020 Transaction

On October 22, 2020, we issued a promissory note (the “ReincorporationOctober Note”). If our shareholders approve this Proposal, in the Board will have the sole discretion, until the 2018 Annual Meetingaggregate principal face amount of Shareholders,$2,000,000, with an interest rate of 13% to effectuate the Reincorporation. The Board has unanimously approved effectuating the Reincorporation,Esousa, and delivered to Esousa a warrant (the “October Warrant”) to purchase 729,927 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $3.01, subject to approval by our shareholders, potentially securing certain third-party consentsadjustments. The October Warrant is exercisable on a cashless basis. If exercised on a cashless basis, the maximum number of shares of Common Stock issuable to Esousa would be 1,007,176. The execution and approvals that the Board determines are in the best interestsdelivery of the Company to obtain and other factors that the Board may consider. If authorized by the Board, the Reincorporation will be effectuated pursuant to the terms of a merger agreement providing for us to merge with and into a newly formed, wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company incorporated in the State of Delaware (“DPW-Delaware”). The name of the Company after the Reincorporation will be “DPW Holdings, Inc.” Even if our shareholders approve this Proposal, the Board reserves the right not to effect the Reincorporation if the Board does not deem it to be in the best interests of the Company’s shareholders. The Board believes that granting this discretion provides the Board with maximum flexibility to act in the best interests of the Company’s shareholders. If this Proposal is approved by the shareholders, the Board will have the authority, in its sole discretion, without further action by the shareholders, to effect the Reincorporation. For purposes of the discussion below, the Company as it currently exists as a corporation organized under the laws of the State of California is referred to as “DPW-California” or as “we” or “us.”

Shareholders are urged to read this proposal carefully, including the exhibits attached to this Proxy Statement, before voting on the Reincorporation Proposal. The following discussion summarizes material provisions of the proposed Reincorporation. This summary is subject to and qualified in its entirety by the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the Reincorporation Agreement”) that will be entered into in the event of Reincorporation by DPW-California and DPW-Delaware in substantially the form attached hereto as Appendix C, the Certificate of Incorporation of DPW-Delaware to be effective immediately following the Reincorporation (the “Delaware Certificate”), in substantially the form attached hereto as Appendix D,October Note and the Bylaws of DPW-Delaware to be effective immediately following the Reincorporation (the “Delaware Bylaws”), in substantially the form attached hereto as Appendix E. Copies of the Articles of Incorporation of DPW-California filed in California, as amended to date (the “California Articles”), and the Bylaws of DPW-California, as amended to date (the “California Bylaws”), are publicly available as exhibits to the reports we haveOctober Warrant was reported on a Form 8-K filed with the SEC and also are available for inspection at our principal executive offices. Additionally, we will send copies to shareholders freeon October 23, 2020. This summary of charge upon written request to Digital Power Corporation, 48430 Lakeview Blvd., Fremont, California 94538-3158.

Reasons for the Reincorporation

Because state corporate law governs the internal affairs of a corporation, choice of a state domicile is an extremely important decision for a public company. Management and boards of directors of corporations look to state corporate law, and judicial interpretations of state law, to guide their decision-making on many key issues, including determining appropriate governance policies and procedures, ensuring that boards satisfy their fiduciary obligations to shareholders and evaluating key strategic alternatives for a corporation, including mergers, acquisitions and divestitures. Our Board and management believe that it is important for us to be able to draw upon well-established principles of corporate governance in making legal and business decisions. The primary purpose for effecting the Reincorporation, should the Board choose to effect it, would be the prominence and predictability of Delaware corporate law, which provides a reliable foundation on which our governance decisions can be based. We believe that our shareholders will benefit from the responsiveness of Delaware corporate law and the Delaware judiciary to their needs and to the needs of the corporation they own. The principal factors the Board considered in deciding to pursue and recommending that our shareholder approve the proposed Reincorporation are summarized below:

greater predictability, flexibility and responsiveness of Delaware law to corporate needs;

access to specialized courts;

enhanced ability of Delaware corporations to attract and retain directors and officers; and

more certainty with respect to indemnification and limitation of liability for directors.

Predictability, Flexibility and Responsiveness of Delaware Law. Delaware has adopted comprehensive and flexible corporate laws that are updated regularly to meet changing business circumstances. The Delaware legislature is sensitive to and experienced in addressing issues regarding corporate law and is especially responsive to developments in modern corporate law. The Delaware Secretary of State is viewed as particularly flexible and responsive in its administration of the filings required for mergers, acquisitions and other corporate transactions. Delaware has become a preferred domicile for many major American corporations and its corporate law and administrative practices have become comparatively well-known and widely understood. In addition, Delaware case law provides a well-developed body of law defining the proper duties and decision making processes expected of boards of directors in evaluating potential or proposed extraordinary corporate transactions. As a result of these factors, it is anticipated that Delaware law provides more efficiency, predictability and flexibility in our legal affairs than is presently available under California law.


Access to Specialized Courts. Delaware offers a system of specialized Chancery Courts to adjudicate cases involving corporate law issues. These courts have developed considerable expertise in dealing with corporate legal issues, as well as a substantial and influential body of case law construing Delaware’s corporate law and have streamlined procedures and processes that help provide relatively quick decisions. In contrast, California does not have a similar specialized court established to hear only corporate law cases. Disputes involving questions of California corporate law are either heard by the California Superior Court, the general trial court in California that hears all manner of cases, from criminal to civil (including personal injury and marital dissolution cases) or, if federal jurisdiction exists, a federal district court.

Enhanced Ability to Attract and Retain Directors and Officers. The Board believes that the Reincorporation enhances our ability to attract and retain qualified directors and officers, as well as encourage directors and officers to continue to make independent decisions in good faith on behalf of the Company. We are in a competitive industry and compete for talented individuals to serve on our management team and on our Board. The majority of public companies are incorporated in Delaware. Not only is Delaware law more familiar to directors, it also offers greater certainty and stability from the perspective of those who serve as corporate officers and directors. The parameters of director and officer liability have been more extensively addressed in Delaware court decisions and, accordingly, are better defined and better understood than under California law. The Board believes that the Reincorporation provides appropriate protection for shareholders from possible abuses by directors and officers, while enhancing our ability to recruit and retain directors and officers. Please note that directors’ personal liability is not, and cannot be, eliminated under Delaware law for intentional misconduct, bad faith conduct or any transaction from which the director derives an improper personal benefit. We believe that the better understood and comparatively stable corporate environment afforded by Delaware law would enable us to compete more effectively with other public companies in the recruitment of talented and experienced directors and officers.

More Certainty Regarding Indemnification and Limitation of Liability for Directors. In general, both California and Delaware permit a corporation to include a provision in its charter which reduces or limits the monetary liability of directors for breaches of fiduciary duties, subject to certain exceptions further discussed in “Elimination of Director Personal Liability for Monetary Damages” below. The increasing frequency of claims and litigations directed against directors and officers has greatly expanded the risks facing directors and officers of corporations in exercising their respective duties. The amount of time and money required to respond to such claims and to defend such litigation can be substantial and distracting to the directors and officers. It is our desire to reduce these risks to our directors and officers and to limit situations in which monetary damages can be recovered against directors so that we may continue to attract and retain qualified directors who otherwise might be unwilling to serve because of the risks involved. In addition, enhanced protection of directors is expected to reduce the extent to which directors, due to the threat of personal liability, are inhibited from making business decisions which, though entailing some degree of risks, are in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders. We believe that, in general, Delaware law provides greater protection to directors than California law, and that Delaware case law regarding a corporation’s ability to limit director liability is more developed and provides more guidance than California law. However, the shareholders should be aware that such protection and limitation of liability inure to the benefit of directors, and the interest of the Board in recommending the approval of this Proposal may therefore not be aligned with the interests of the shareholders.

Mechanics of the Reincorporation

If the Proposal is approved by our shareholders, the Board, in its sole discretion, will determine whether the Reincorporation remains in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders. Should the Board choose to exercise this discretion and effect the Reincorporation, the Reincorporation will be effectuated by the merger of DPW-California with and into DPW-Delaware, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company that recently has been incorporated under the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”) for purposes of the Reincorporation. The Company, as it currently exists as a California corporation, will cease to exist as a result of the merger, and DPW-Delaware will be the surviving corporation and will continue to operate our businesses as it exists prior to the Reincorporation. The existing holders of our Common Stock will own all of the outstanding shares of DPW-Delaware Common Stock, and there will be no change in number of shares owned by or in the percentage ownership of any shareholder as a result of the Reincorporation (but see “Differences between the Charters and Bylaws of DPW-California and DPW-Delaware – Classes of Common Stock” below). Assuming approval of the Reincorporation Proposal at the Annual Meeting and a decision by our Board to consummate with the Reincorporation, we currently anticipate that we will effectuate the Reincorporation as soon as reasonably practicable thereafter.


In the Reincorporation, all outstanding equity awards, including stock options to purchase DPW-California Common Stock and restricted stock units representing the right to receive DPW-California Common Stock upon vesting, that are outstanding under DPW-California’s equity incentive plans, including employee benefit and incentive compensation plans immediately prior to the Reincorporation (the “Equity Plans”), as well as options, restricted stock units or other equity awards granted under the Equity Plans in the future, will automatically be assumed by DPW-Delaware and will represent an option or restricted stock unit, as applicable, to acquire or receive shares of DPW-Delaware on the basis of one share of DPW-Delaware Common Stock for each one share of DPW-California Common Stock relating to such award and, in the case of stock options, at an exercise price equal to the exercise price of the DPW-California option. Other than a change in the identity of the corporation to which the awards granted under the Equity Plans are subject, the terms and conditions of these equity awards will not change. In particular, the merger of DPW-California into DPW-Delaware will not be treated as a “Change in Control” under any of the Equity Plans, and therefore the provisions of the Equity Plans that provide for more favorable treatment to holders of awards in that event will not apply.

If and at the time and date on which the Reincorporation becomes effective (the Effective Time”), we will be governed by the Delaware Certificate, the Delaware Bylaws and the DGCL. Although the Delaware Certificate and the Delaware Bylaws contain provisions that are similar to the provisions of the California Articles and the California Bylaws, they also include certain provisions that are different from the provisions contained in the California Articles and the California Bylaws or under the California General Corporation Law (the “CGCL”), as described in more detail below.

Changes to the Business of the Company as a Result of the Reincorporation

In addition to the change in corporate domicile, the Company will increase its number of authorized shares from 2,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock and 30,000,000 shares of Common Stock to 25,000,000 shares of preferred stock and 225,000,000 shares of Common Stock. The Reincorporation will not result in any change in the business, physical location, management, assets or liabilities of the Company, nor will it result in any change in location of our current officers or employees. Upon consummation of the Reincorporation, our daily business operations will continue as they are presently conducted at our principal executive offices located at 48430 Lakeview Blvd., Fremont, California 94538-3158. The consolidated financial condition and results of operations of DPW-Delaware immediately after consummation of the Reincorporation will be the same as those of DPW-California immediately prior to the consummation of the Reincorporation. In addition, upon the effectiveness of the Reincorporation, the Board of Directors of DPW-Delaware will be comprised of the persons who were elected to the Board of Directors of DPW-California at the Annual Meeting and will continue to serve until the next annual stockholders’ meeting and until their successors are elected. There will be no changes in our executive officers or in their responsibilities. Upon effectiveness of the Reincorporation, DPW-Delaware will be the successor in interest to DPW-California, and the stockholders will become stockholders of DPW-Delaware, owning the same number of shares of its Common Stock as they owned of DPW-California’s Common Stock.

All of our employee benefit and incentive compensation plans existing immediately prior to the Reincorporation, including the Equity Plans, will be continued by DPW-Delaware, and, as described above, each outstanding option to purchase shares of DPW-California’s Common Stock and each outstanding restricted stock unit representing the right to receive one share of DPW-California Common Stock upon vesting will be converted into an option to purchase the same number of shares of DPW-Delaware’s Common Stock or a restricted stock unit relating to the same number of shares of DPW-Delaware’s Common Stock on the same terms, at the same price, and subject to the same conditions. The registration statements of DPW-California on file with the SEC immediately prior to the Reincorporation will be assumed by DPW-Delaware, and the shares of DPW-Delaware will continue to be listed on NYSE American.

IN THE EVENT OF A REINCORPORATION, DPW-CALIFORNIA SHARE CERTIFICATES AND BOOK-ENTRY POSITIONS WILL AUTOMATICALLY REPRESENT SHARES AND BOOK-ENTRY POSITIONS OF DPW-DELAWARE UPON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE REINCORPORATION. SHAREHOLDERS WHO HOLD DPW-CALIFORNIA SHARE CERTIFICATES WILL NOT BE REQUIRED TO SURRENDER OR EXCHANGE THEIR DPW-CALIFORNIA SHARE CERTIFICATES SOLELY IN CONNECTION WITH THE REINCORPORATION.

The Reincorporation Agreement provides that the Board may abandon the Reincorporation at any time prior to the Effective Time if the Board determines that the Reincorporation is inadvisable for any reason. For example, the DGCL or CGCL, may be changed to reduce the benefits that the Board is seeking to achieve through the Reincorporation, or the costs of operating as a Delaware corporation may be increased, although we do not know of any such changes under consideration. The Reincorporation Agreement may be amended at any time prior to the Effective Time, either before or after the shareholders have voted to adopt the proposal, subject to applicable law. We will re-solicit shareholder approval of the Reincorporation if the terms of the Reincorporation Agreement are materially changed.

Anti-Takeover Implications

Delaware, like many other states, permits a domestic corporation to adopt various measures designed to reduce a corporation’s vulnerability to unsolicited takeover attempts through provisions in the corporate charter or bylaws or otherwise, and provides default legal provisions in the DGCL that apply to certain publicly held corporations that have not affirmatively opted out, which further limits such vulnerability. The Reincorporation was not proposed to prevent such a change in control; nor is it a response to any specific attempt to acquire control known to our Board.


Nevertheless, the Reincorporation may have certain anti-takeover effects by virtue of the Company being subject to Delaware law instead of California law. For example, Section 203 of the DGCL generally prohibits certain “business combinations” (including mergers, sales and leases of assets, issuances of securities and similar transactions) with “interested stockholders” (generally a person who beneficially owns 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock) for three years following the date that a person becomes an interested stockholder, unless: (a) before such stockholder becomes an “interested stockholder,” the board of directors approves the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder; (b) upon consummation of the transaction which resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested stockholder owned at least 85% of the outstanding stock of the corporation at the time of the transaction (excluding stock owned by certain persons); or (c) at the time or after the stockholder became an interested stockholder, the board of directors and at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding voting stock of the corporation approves the transaction, excluding shares held by the interested stockholder.

Our Board believes that unsolicited takeover attempts may be unfair or disadvantageous to the Company and its shareholders because a non-negotiated takeover bid may: (a) be timed to take advantage of temporarily depressed stock prices; (b) be designed to foreclose or minimize the possibility of more favorable competing bids; (c) involve the acquisition of only a controlling interest in our Company’s stock or a two-tiered bid, without affording all shareholders the opportunity to receive the same economic benefits; or (d) be predicated on confidential and/or proprietary information that is not generally known by our shareholders, thereby creating a disparity of information that could negatively prejudice our shareholders. By contrast, in a transaction in which an acquirer must negotiate with our Company, our Board would evaluate our Company’s assets and business prospects to attempt to force the bidder to offer consideration equal to the true value of our Company, or to withdraw the bid.

Although our Board believes the advantages of the Reincorporation outweigh the disadvantages, our Board has carefully considered and will continue to carefully consider the detriments of the Reincorporation proposal. These include the possibility that future takeover attempts that are not approved by our Board, but which a majority of our shareholders may nonetheless deem to be in its best interests, may be discouraged. In addition, to the extent that the provisions of the DGCL would better enable the board of directors of DPW-Delaware to resist a takeover or a change in control, it could become more difficult to remove existing directors and management.

Possible Negative Considerations

Notwithstanding the belief of the Board as to the benefits to our shareholders of the Reincorporation, Delaware law has been criticized by some commentators and shareholders on the grounds that it does not afford minority shareholders the same substantive rights and protections as are available in certain other states, including California. In addition, the Delaware CertificateOctober Note and the Delaware Bylaws, in comparison to the California Articles and the California Bylaws, contain certain provisions that may have the effect of reducing the rights of minority shareholders. The Reincorporation may have the effect of making it more difficult for minority shareholders to call special meetings of shareholders. In addition, the minimum annual franchise taxes payable by us in Delaware may be greater than in California.

It should also be noted that the interests of the Board of Directors and management in voting on the Reincorporation proposal may not be the same as those of shareholders since some substantive provisions of California and Delaware law apply only to directors and officers. See “Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Reincorporation” below. For a comparison of shareholders’ rights and the material substantive provisions that apply to the Board of Directors and management under Delaware and California law, see “Differences between the Charters and Bylaws of DPW-California and DPW-Delaware” below.

The members of the Board have considered the potential disadvantages of the Reincorporation and they have unanimously concluded at this time that the potential benefits of the Reincorporation outweigh the possible disadvantages of the Reincorporation.

Differences between the Charters and Bylaws of DPW-California and DPW-Delaware

The following is a comparison of certain key provisions in the Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws of DPW-California and comparable provisions in the Certificate of Incorporation and the Bylaws of DPW-Delaware, as well as certain provisions of California law and Delaware law. These comparisons summarize certain difference that shareholders may deem important, but are not intended to list all differences, andOctober Warrant is qualified in its entirety by reference to those documents and to the DGCL and CGCL. Shareholders are encouraged to read the Certificate of Incorporation and the Bylaws of DPW-Delaware and the Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws of DPW-California, in their entirety. Copies of the Certificate of Incorporation and the Bylaws of DPW-Delaware are attached as Appendices D and E, respectively, to this proxy statement, and the Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws of DPW-California are filed publicly as exhibits to the periodic reports we have previously filed with the SEC.


Provision

DPW-California

DPW-Delaware

Authorized Shares

30,000,000 shares of Common Stock, no par value per share.

1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, no par value per share.

225,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share, consisting of 200,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock and 25,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock.

25,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share.

Classes of Common Stock

Only one class of Common Stock

Two classes of Common Stock. The Class A Common Stock is substantially identical to the Company’s Common Stock; the Class B Common Stock carries the voting power of 10 shares of Class A Common Stock.

Vote Required to Approve Merger or

Sale of Company

Except in limited circumstances, California law requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote in order to approve a merger of the corporation or a sale of all or substantially all the assets of the corporation, including, in the case of a merger, the affirmative vote of each class of outstanding stock. The California Articles do not include any voting requirements with respect to the approval of a merger or sale.


Substantially similar to California. The Delaware Certificate does not include super-majority voting requirements with respect to the approval of a merger or such an asset sale.

50/90 Rule Restriction on Cash

Mergers

Under California law, a merger may not be consummated for cash if the purchaser owns more than 50%, but less than 90%, of the then outstanding shares (the 50/90Rule”), unless either (i) all the shareholders consent, which is not practical for a public company, or (ii) the California Department of Business Oversight approves the merger.

The 50/90 Rule may make it more difficult for certain acquirors to make an-all cash acquisition of the Company if the acquisition were to be opposed by the Board of DPW-California. Specifically, the 50/90 rule encourages an acquiror making an unsolicited tender offer to either tender for less than 50% of the outstanding shares or more than 90% of the outstanding shares. A purchase by such acquiror of less than 50% of the outstanding shares, however, does not allow the acquiror to gain ownership of a majority of the outstanding shares needed to approve a second step merger (for purposes of enabling the acquiror to acquire the remaining shares of the Company) and, therefore, creates risk for such an acquiror that such a favorable vote will not be obtained. On the other hand, a tender offer conditioned upon receipt of tenders from at least 90% of the outstanding shares also creates risk for the acquiror, because it is likely to be very difficult to obtain tenders from holders of at least 90% of the outstanding shares. Consequently, it is possible that these risks would discourage some potential acquirors from pursuing an all cash acquisition of the Company that is opposed by the Board of Directors.

Delaware law does not have a provision similar to California’s 50/90 Rule.


Restrictions on Statutory Mergers or

Company Sales Transactions with

Interested Shareholders

Section 1203 of the CGCL, which applies to mergers or corporate acquisition transactions with interested shareholders or their affiliates, makes it a condition to the consummation of a merger or other acquisition transaction with an interested shareholder that an affirmative opinion be obtained in writing as to the fairness of the consideration be received by the shareholders of the corporation being acquired.

Section 203 of the DGCL generally prohibits “business combinations,” including mergers, sales and leases of assets, issuances of securities and similar transactions, by a corporation or a subsidiary with an “interested stockholder” who beneficially owns 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock, within three years after the person or entity becomes an interested stockholder, unless certain conditions, which are described in more detail above, are satisfied. Delaware corporation may elect not to be governed by Section 203 of the DGCL; however, DPW-Delaware has not made such an election.

Section 203 makes certain types of unfriendly or hostile corporate takeovers, or other non-board approved transactions involving a corporation and one or more of its significant stockholders, more difficult.

Bylaw Amendments


The California Bylaws may be amended by the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares or by action of the Board of Directors, except (i) a bylaw or amendment changing the authorized number of directors (except to fix the authorized number of directors pursuant to a by-law providing for a variable number of directors); and (ii) if the California Articles set forth the number of authorized directors of the corporation, the authorized number of directors may be changed only by an amendment as required by applicable law.


Under Delaware law, the stockholders possess the right to amend, alter or repeal the bylaws. In addition, the Delaware Certificate provides the Board the power to amend, alter or repeal the bylaws. The Delaware Bylaws may be amended by the Board or by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power of the Company’s outstanding shares that are entitled to vote on the amendment.

Shareholder Action by Written
Consent


The California Bylaws provide that any action that may be taken at any annual or special meeting of shareholders may be taken without a meeting and without prior notice if a consent in writing, setting forth the actions so taken, is filed with the Secretary of the Company after having been signed by the holders of outstanding shares having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted.

The Delaware Bylaws provide that any action that may be taken at any annual or special meeting of stockholders may be taken without a meeting and without prior notice if a consent in writing, setting forth the action so taken, is signed by holders of outstanding stock having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted and is delivered to the Company.


The California Bylaws provide that, in the case of election of directors, such a consent shall be effective only if signed by the holders of all outstanding shares entitled to vote for the election of directors and that shareholders may elect a director to fill a vacancy, other than a vacancy created by removal, by the written consent of a majority of all outstanding shares entitled to vote for the election of directors.

Ability of Shareholders to Call

Special Meetings

As prescribed by California law, the California Bylaws provide that a special meeting of shareholders may be called by the Board, the Chairman of the Board, the President, or holders of shares entitled to cast not less than 10% of the votes at such meeting.

Under the DGCL, a special meeting of shareholders may be called by the board of directors or by any person authorized to do so in the certificate of incorporation or the bylaws.

The Delaware Bylaws provide that a special meeting of shareholders may be called by the Board or stockholders owning shares representing not less than 20% of the voting power of the stock entitled to vote at such meeting.

Exclusive Forum Selection Provision


The California Bylaws do not contain an exclusive forum selection provision that requires certain legal actions, including shareholder derivative lawsuits, to be brought in courts located in California.


The Delaware Certificate and Bylaws contain an exclusive forum selection provision that requires certain legal actions, including stockholder derivative lawsuits, to be brought in courts located in Delaware.

Shareholder Proposal Notice

Provisions


The California Bylaws provide that a written notice containing the name of any person to be nominated by any shareholder for election as a director of the Company or containing any shareholder proposal to be presented at an upcoming shareholders meeting must generally be received by the Secretary of the Company not less than 70 days prior to the first anniversary of the date the Company’s proxy statement for the prior year’s annual meeting was first released to shareholders.


The Delaware Bylaws contain notice provisions that are similar to those contained in the California Bylaws that require advance notice in order for a stockholder submitted director nomination or business proposal (other than proposals included in DPW-Delaware’s notice of meeting pursuant to Rule 14a-8 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) to be properly brought before a stockholder meeting. These notice provisions are similar to the provisions in the California Bylaws except that, to be timely, the notice must be generally delivered not earlier than the close of business on the 120thday prior to such meeting and not later than the close of business on the later of the 90thday prior to such meeting or the 10th day following the day on which public announcement is first made of the date of the meeting.

Change in Number of Directors

Under California law, a change in the number of directors must generally be approved by the shareholders, but the board of directors may fix the exact number of directors within a stated range set forth in the articles of incorporation or the bylaws, if the range has been approved by the shareholders.

The California Bylaws provide that the number of directors of the Company shall not be less than five nor more than nine, with the exact number of directors to be fixed, within the limit specified, by approval of the board or the shareholders in the manner provided in the by-laws and Section 204(a) of the California Corporations Code.

Under the DGCL, the number of directors will be fixed by or in the manner provided in the bylaws, unless the Delaware Certificate fixes the number of directors.

The Delaware Certificate does not fix the number of directors, but provides that the Board may by resolution fix the number of directors, subject to any minimum and maximum number of directors set forth in the Bylaws.


Classified Board


The California Bylaws do not provide for a classified board. Instead, directors are elected annually.


The Delaware Certificate does not provide for a classified board. As a result, DPW-Delaware’s directors will be elected annually.

Filling Vacancies on the Board


The California Bylaws provide that vacancies on the Board not caused by removal may be filled by a majority of the directors then in office, regardless of whether they constitute a quorum, or by a sole remaining director. The shareholders may elect a director or directors at any time to fill any vacancy or vacancies not filled by the directors, but any such election other than to fill a vacancy created by removal, if by written consent, shall require the consent of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon


The Delaware Bylaws provide that any vacancies on the Board shall, subject to the right of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock and unless the Board otherwise determines, be filled solely by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office.

Removal of Directors


Under California law, any or all of the directors may be removed without cause if the removal is approved by the outstanding shares; provided that no director may be removed (unless the entire board is removed) when the votes cast against removal, or not consenting in writing to the removal, would be sufficient to elect the director if voted cumulatively at an election at which the same total number of votes were cast (or, if the action is taken by written consent, all shares entitled to vote were voted) and the entire number of directors authorized at the time of the director’s most recent election were then being elected.


Under Delaware law, directors may be removed with or without cause, provided that directors may only be removed for cause if a corporation has either a classified board or cumulative voting. Because the DPW-Delaware Certificate does not establish a classified board or authorize cumulative voting, directors may be removed with or without cause.

Cumulative Voting; Vote Required

to Elect Directors; Majority Vote

Standard

The California Articles and the California Bylaws do not provide for cumulative voting. 

California law provides that if any shareholder has given notice of his or her intention to cumulate votes for the election of directors, all other shareholders of the corporation are also entitled to cumulate their votes at such election. In the absence of such notification, directors are elected by a plurality of the votes cast. California law permits a corporation that is listed on a national securities exchange to amend its articles or bylaws to eliminate cumulative voting by approval of the board of directors and of the outstanding shares voting together as a single class.

The Delaware Certificate does not provide for cumulative voting.

Under Delaware law, cumulative voting is not permitted unless a corporation provides for cumulative voting rights in its certificate of incorporation. The default voting standard for the election of directors under Delaware law is a plurality vote; however, the certificate of incorporation or bylaws may specify a different vote required for the election of directors.


Indemnification


California law requires indemnification when the indemnitee has defended the action successfully on the merits. Expenses incurred by an officer or director in defending an action may be paid in advance, if the director or officer undertakes to repay such amounts if it is ultimately determined that he or she is not entitled to indemnification. California law authorizes a corporation to purchase indemnity insurance for the benefit of its officers, directors, employees and agents whether or not the corporation would have the power to indemnify against the liability covered by the policy.


The DGCL generally requires a corporation to indemnify a current or former director or officer against expenses incurred in defending a proceeding related to such person’s service to the corporation to the extent such person has been successful on the merits or otherwise in such proceeding. In addition, Delaware law generally provides that a corporation may indemnify, among others, its present and former directors and officers against expenses (including attorney’s fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement of actions, if certain requirements are met including that the individual acted in good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the corporation; except that no indemnification may be paid for judgments and settlements in actions by or in the right of the corporation.
California law permits a corporation to provide rights to indemnification beyond those provided therein to the extent such additional indemnification is authorized in the corporation’s articles of incorporation. Thus, if so authorized, rights to indemnification may be provided pursuant to agreements or bylaw provisions which make mandatory the permissive indemnification provided by California law.A Delaware corporation generally may not indemnify a person against expenses to the extent the person is adjudged liable to the corporation.
The California Articles and Bylaws authorize indemnification to the fullest extent permissible under California law.The Delaware Bylaws generally provide that DPW-Delaware will indemnify, to the fullest extent authorized by the DGCL, among others, any person who was or is a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the Company against all expense, liability and loss (including attorneys’ fees) incurred by such person in connection, therewith, subject to certain exceptions.

Elimination of Director Personal Liability for Monetary Damages

California law permits a corporation to eliminate the personal liability of directors for monetary damages, except where such liability is based on:The DGCL permits a corporation to eliminate the personal liability of directors for monetary damages, except where such liability is based on:

Intentional misconduct or knowing and culpable violation of law;

Breaches of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its shareholders;

Acts or omissions that a director believes to be contrary to the best interests of the corporation or its shareholders or that involve the absence of good faith on the part of the director;

Acts or omissions not in good faith or involving intentional misconduct or knowing violations of law;

Receipt of an improper personal benefit;

The payment of unlawful dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemption under Section 174 of the DGCL; or

Acts or omissions that show reckless disregard for the director’s duty to the corporation or its shareholders, where the director in the ordinary course of performing a director’s duties should be aware of a risk of serious injury to the corporation or its shareholders;

Transactions in which the director derived an improper personal benefit.

Acts or omissions that constitute an unexcused pattern of inattention that amounts to an abdication of the director’s duty to the corporation and its shareholders;Such a limitation of liability provision also may not limit a director’s liability for violation of, or otherwise relieve the Company or the directors from the necessity of complying with, federal or state securities laws, or affect the availability of non-monetary remedies such as injunctive relief or rescission.
Transactions between the corporation and a director who has a material financial interest in such transaction; or

Liability for improper distributions, loans or guarantees.The Delaware Certificate eliminates the liability of directors for monetary damages to the fullest extent permissible under the DGCL.
The California Articles eliminate the liability of directors for monetary damages to the fullest extent permissible under California law.


Dividends and Repurchases of Shares

Under California law, a corporation may not make any distribution to its shareholders or repurchase its shares unless either:

The DGCL is more flexible than California law with respect to payment of dividends and the implementation of share repurchase programs. The DGCL generally provides that a corporation may redeem or repurchase its shares out of its surplus. Surplus is defined as the excess of a corporation’s net assets (i.e., its total assets minus its total liabilities) over a corporation’s statutory capital, which the Board may generally increase or decrease by resolution, subject to a statutory requirement that at a minimum a corporation’s capital must equal the aggregate par value of its issued shares.
The amount of retained earnings of the corporation immediately prior to the distribution or payment of the price of the shares being repurchased equals or exceeds the sum of (i) the amount of the proposed distribution, plus (ii)the preferential dividends arrears amount, if any; or
Immediately after the distribution or share repurchase, the value of the corporation’s assets would equal or exceed the sum of its total liabilities, plus the preferential rights amount, if any.
For purposes of determining whether a California corporation meets either of these tests, the determination may be based on any of the following:
The corporation’s financial statements;
A fair valuation; or
Any other method that is reasonable under the circumstances.
These tests are applied to California corporations on a consolidated basis.

Dissolution

Under California law, holders of 50% or more of a corporation’s total voting power may authorize the corporation’s dissolution, with or without approval of the corporation’s board of directors, and this right may not be modified by the articles of incorporation.

Under the DGCL, unless the Board of Directors approves the proposal to dissolve, the dissolution must be unanimously approved by all the stockholders entitled to vote on the matter. Only if the dissolution is initially approved by the Board of Directors may the dissolution be approved by a simple majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote. The DGCL allows a Delaware corporation to include in its certificate of incorporation a supermajority voting requirement in connection with such a board-initiated dissolution, but the Delaware Certificate contains no such supermajority voting requirement.


Forum Selection

Not addressed.

Delaware courts have upheld the right of Delaware corporations to include forum selection provisions in their bylaws. Such provisions normally provide that shareholders bringing derivative claims or claims alleging breaches of fiduciary duties arising from the DGCL or otherwise implicating the internal affairs of the corporation be brought exclusively in Delaware state or federal courts.

Under the Delaware Certificate, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Delaware Court of Chancery will be the sole and exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the corporation, any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer, other employee or stockholder of the corporation to the corporation or the corporation’s stockholders, any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL or as to which the DGCL confers jurisdiction upon the Delaware Court of Chancery, any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of our Delaware Certificate or Delaware Bylaws, or any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine.

Interest of the Companys Directors and Executive Officers in the Reincorporationforegoing Form 8-K.

 

The shareholders should be aware that certain of our directors and executive officers may have interests in the transaction that are different from, or in addition to, the interestsexercise of the shareholders generally. For example, the Reincorporation may provide officers and directors of the Corporation with more clarity and certainty in the reduction of their potential personal liability in their fiduciary roles for the Corporation, and to strengthen the ability of directors to resist takeover bids on behalf of shareholders. The Board has considered these interests, among other matters, in reaching its decision to recommend that our shareholders vote in favor of this proposal.

Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences

The following discussion summarizes certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reincorporation to holders of our Common Stock. The discussion is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), regulations promulgated under the Code by the U.S. Treasury Department (including proposed and temporary regulations), rulings, current administrative interpretations and official pronouncements of the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”), and judicial decisions, all as currently in effect and all of which are subject to differing interpretations or to change, possibly with retroactive effect. Such change could materially and adversely affect the U.S. federal income tax consequences described below. No assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or that a court would not sustain, a position contrary to any of the tax consequences described herein.


This discussion is for general information only, and does not purport to discuss all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be important to a particular holder in light of its investment or tax circumstances or to holders subject to special tax rules, such as partnerships, subchapter S corporations or other pass-through entities (and investors in such entities), banks, financial institutions, tax-exempt entities, insurance companies, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, trusts and estates, dealers in stocks, securities or currencies, traders in securities that have elected to use the mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities, persons holding our Common Stock as part of an integrated transaction, including a “straddle,” “hedge,” “constructive sale,” or “conversion transaction,” persons whose functional currency for tax purposes is not the U.S. dollar, former citizens or residents of the United States, persons who acquired our Common Stock pursuant to the exercise of stock options or otherwise as compensation, persons who hold our Common Stock as qualified small business stock within the meaning of Section 1202 of the Code and persons subject to the alternative minimum tax provisions of the Code. This discussion does not address any U.S. federal taxes (other than U.S. federal income taxes), any state or local taxes, or of any foreign taxes, that may be applicable to a particular holder.

This discussion is directed solely to holders that hold our Common Stock as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code, which generally means as property held for investment. In addition, the following discussion only addresses “U.S. persons” for U.S. federal income tax purposes, generally defined as beneficial owners of our Common Stock who are, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:

Individuals who are citizens or residents of the United States;

Corporations created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or of any state of the United States or the District of Columbia;

Estates the income of whichOctober Warrant is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source;

Trusts if a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of any such trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of such trust; or

Trusts in existence on August 20, 1996 that have valid elections in effect under applicable Treasury regulations to be treated as U.S. persons.

If an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds our Common Stock, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner generally will depend on the statusapproval of the partner and the activities of the partnership. A partner of a partnership holding our Common Stock should consult its own tax advisor regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences to the partner of the Reincorporation.NYSE American.

 

This discussion does not purport to be a complete analysis of all of the Reincorporations tax consequences that may be relevant to holders. We urge you to consult your own tax advisor regarding your particular circumstances and the U.S. federal income and other federal tax consequences to you of the Reincorporation, as well as any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, local, foreign or other tax jurisdiction and the possible effects of changes in U.S. federal or other tax laws.October 27, 2020 Transactions

 

We have not requested a ruling fromOn October 27, 2020, we issued two promissory notes (the “October Note” and together, the IRS or an opinion of counsel regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Reincorporation. However, the Reincorporation is intended to qualify as a tax-free reorganization under Section 368(a) of the Code. Assuming that the Reincorporation qualifies as a tax-free reorganization under Section 368(a) of the Code, and subject to the qualifications and assumptions describedOctober Notes”) in this proxy statement: (a) holders of DPW-California Common Stock will not recognize any gain or loss as a result of the consummation of the Reincorporation, (b) the aggregate tax basisprincipal face amounts of the DPW-Delaware Common Stock held by each holder immediately following the consummation$850,000 and $350,000, with an interest rate of the Reincorporation will equal the aggregate tax basis of the DPW-California Common Stock converted therefor14% to Esousa, and (c) the holding period of the DPW-Delaware Common Stock held by each holder following the consummation of the Reincorporation will include the period during which such holder held the DPW-California Common Stock converted therefor.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

Approval of the proposed change in corporate domicile from Californiadelivered to Delaware requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Company’s issued and outstandingEsousa warrants to purchase (i) 425,000 shares of Common Stock asat an exercise price of $2.20 (the “First Warrant”), and (ii) 148,936 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.59 (the “Second Warrant”) with each such exercise price being subject to adjustment. Each of these warrants is exercisable on a cashless basis. If exercised on a cashless basis, the maximum number of shares of Common Stock issuable to Esousa would be 542,300 for the First Warrant and 203,369 for the Second Warrant. The execution and delivery of the Record Date.

Shareholders are urged to read this proposal carefully, including allOctober Notes and the warrants was reported on a Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 27, 2020. This summary of the related Exhibits attached to this Proxy Statement, before voting on Shareholder approvalterms of the Reincorporation. The discussion aboveOctober Note and the warrants is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Merger Agreement in substantially the form attached hereto as Appendix C, the Delaware Certificate in substantially the form attached hereto as Appendix D, and the Delaware Bylaws in substantially the form attached hereto as Appendix E.foregoing Form 8-K.

 

The Board unanimously recommends a vote FOR theexercise of these warrants is subject to approval of the proposed change in corporate domicile from California to Delaware


PROPOSAL NO. 4NYSE American.

 

APPROVAL OF THE CONVERSION OF UP TO 500,000 SHARES OF SERIES B PREFERRED STOCK INTO SHARES OF COMMON STOCK AND THE EXERCISE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH RULE 713 OF THE NYSE AMERICAN

Terms of the TransactionNovember 19, 2020 Transactions

 

On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase AgreementNovember 19, 2020, we issued to Esousa and two other institutional investors unsecured promissory notes (the Preferred Stock Purchase AgreementNovember Notes”) in the aggregate principal face amount of $2,250,000, with Philou Ventures, LLC (“Philou”)an interest rate of 12%. Philou is the Company’s largest shareholderThe outstanding principal face amount, plus any accrued and Kristine Ault, a director of the Company, controls and is a Manager of Philou. Pursuant tounpaid interest, was due by February 18, 2021, or as otherwise provided in accordance with the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou will invest up to $5,000,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series B Preferred Stock”) over the Term, as specified herein.set forth therein. These unsecured promissory notes were repaid on December 28, 2020. In addition, for each share of Series B Preferred Stock purchased by Philou, Philou will receiveconnection therewith, we delivered warrants (the “Series B November Warrants”) to purchase an aggregate of 1,323,531 shares of Common Stock in a number equal to the stated value of each share of Series B Preferred Stock of $10.00 purchased divided by $0.70 at an exercise price equal to $0.70 per share of Common Stock (the “Series B Conversion Price”). In connection with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, the Company entered into a registration rights agreement with Philou.

For each share of Series B Preferred Stock purchased by Philou, Philou will receive a Series B Warrant to purchase shares of Common Stock in a number equal to the stated value of all shares of Series B Preferred Stock sold divided by $0.70 for an exercise price equal to $0.70 per share (the “Series B Warrant Exercise Price”). The exercise period will begin on the six month after, and end on the fifth year and six month anniversary of, the date of issuance. The exercise price of the Series B Warrant is$1.87, subject to adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The Series B Warrant may beadjustments. If exercised for cash or, upon the failure to maintain an effective registration statement, on a cashless basis.

Pursuant tobasis, the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, the Company agreed to recommend that its shareholders approve the Reincorporation at its next annual meeting. In addition, the Company agreed to use its best efforts to obtain its shareholders’ approval, pursuant to NYSE American Rule 713, for the actions contemplated by the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement as soon as possible.

Each share of Series B Preferred Stock shall be purchased at $10.00 up to a maximum issuance of 500,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock. Philou guaranteed that it would purchase, no later than May 31, 2017, the greater of: (i) 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock or (ii) a sufficient number of shares of Series B Preferred Stock to ensure that the Company has sufficient stockholders’ equity to meet the minimum continued listing standards of the NYSE American. Philou has purchased 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock. In addition, for as long as any shares of Series B Preferred Stock remain outstanding during the Term, Philou agreed to purchase additional shares of Series B Preferred Stock in a sufficient amount in order for the Company to meet the NYSE American’s minimum stockholders’ equity continued listing requirement subject to the maximum number of 500,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock (collectively, “Guaranteed Purchases”). In addition, at any time during the Term, Philou may, in its sole and absolute discretion, purchase additional shares of Series B Preferred Stock, up to the 500,000 share maximum (“Voluntary Purchases”). All consideration for Voluntary Purchases shall be delivered through a series of varying payments (“Payments”) by Philou, at its sole and absolute discretion, during the period commencing on the closing date and ending 36 months therefrom (the “Term”). The Company shall have the right to request, with 90-day written notice to Philou, that Guaranteed Purchases be accelerated to meet deadlines for maintaining the minimum stockholders’ equity required by the NYSE American. The Series B Preferred Stock shall not be callable by the Company for 25 years from the closing date.

Pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, at any time while no fewer than one hundred thousand (100,000) Series B Preferred Stock are issued and outstanding and held by Philou, Philou shall have the right to participate in the Company’s future financings under substantially the same terms and conditions as other investors in those respective financings in order to maintain its then percentage ownership interest in the Company. Philou’s right to participate in such financings shall accrue and accumulate provided that it still owns at least 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock.

In order to comply with NYSE American Rule 713, Philou may not (i) vote the shares of Series B Preferred Stock; (ii) convert such shares of Series B Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock or (iii) exercise its rights under the Series B Warrant until the requirement of NYSE American Rule 713 has been met at a meeting, or by the requisite written consent, of the holders of the outstanding shares of Common Stock.


Description of the Series B Preferred Stock

Each share of Series B Preferred Stock has a stated value of $10.00 per share and may be convertible at the holder’s option into shares of Common Stock of the Company at a conversion rate of $0.70 per share, subject to customary adjustment, upon the earlier to occur of: (i) 60 months from the closing date, or (ii) upon the filing by the Company of one or more periodic reports that, singly or collectively, evidence(s) that the Company’s gross revenues have reached no less than $10,000,000 in the aggregate, on a consolidated reporting basis, over four consecutive quarters in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

The Series B Conversion Price will be subject to standard anti-dilution provisions in connection with any stock split, stock dividend, subdivision or similar reclassification of the Common Stock.

Each share of Series B Preferred Stock shall have the right to receive dividends equal to one ten millionth (0.0000001) of the Company’s EBITDAS calculated for a particular calendar year. Assuming the purchase of the entire $5,000,000 of shares of Series B Preferred Stock, the holders thereof will be entitled to receive dividends equal to five percent (5%) in the aggregate of EBITDAS. Payment of dividends shall be calculated for a calendar year, payable on a quarterly basis, with payments to occur no later than 90 days in arrears from each reporting period subject to a year-end reconciliation. EBITDAS shall mean earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and stock-based compensation.

Philou shall have the right to designate a number of directors to the Company’s Board of Directors equal to a percentage determined by the number of shares of Series B Preferred Stock (determined on an “as converted” basis) divided by the sum of the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding plusissuable to Esousa would be 1,957,546 and an additional 139,829 to the numbertwo other institutional investors for an aggregate of shares of Series B Preferred Stock outstanding as determined on an as converted basis. Philou’s percentage to designate a number of directors shall be determined each time Philou makes a purchase of shares of Series B Preferred Stock and cannot be decreased unless Philou converts or sells all or part of its shares of Series B Preferred Stock, in which case the number of directors that Philou may designate will be re-calculated. The right to designate a director shall be a contractual right granted to Philou and not to any potential subsequent owner of shares of Series B Preferred Stock.

In the case for the election of directors, the Series B Preferred Stock shall be voted on an “as converted” basis together with the Common Stock. In all other cases, the Series B Preferred Stock shall be voted in accordance with California law.

Each share of Series B Preferred Stock shall have dividend and liquidation rights in priority to any2,097,375 shares of Common Stock,Stock. The execution and delivery of the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock (of which none are outstanding)November Notes and other subordinated securities.the November Warrants was reported on a Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 20, 2020. This summary of the terms of the November Notes and the November Warrants is qualified in its entirety by reference to the foregoing Form 8-K.

 

At such time as (i) all sharesThe exercise of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of all outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock (the “Series B Conversion Shares”) shall have been registered for resale pursuantthese November Warrants is subject to an effective Registration Statement covering such Series B Conversion Shares, (ii) but no earlier than the twenty-fifth (25th) anniversaryapproval of the effective date, the shares of Series B Preferred Stock shall be subject to redemption in cash at the option of the Company in an amount per share equal to 120% of the greater of (a) the stated value plus all accrued and unpaid dividends, if any and (b) the fair market value of such shares of Series B Preferred Stock.NYSE American.

 

Why the Company Needs ShareholderStockholder Approval

 

Rule 713 of the NYSE American requires shareholderstockholder approval of a transaction, other than a public offering, involving the sale, issuance or potential issuance by an issuer of Common Stock (or securities convertible into or exercisable for Common Stock) at a price less than the greater of book or market value which together with sales by officers, directors or principal shareholdersstockholders of the issuer equals 20% or more of presently outstanding Common Stock, or equal to 20% or more of presently outstanding stock for less than the greater of book or market value of the stock, or when the issuance or potential issuance of additional shares will result in a change of control of the issuer. The initial Conversion Price ofEsousa is prohibited from exercising the Series B Preferred StockNovember Warrant, the October Warrant, the First Warrant, the Second Warrant and the initial Exercise Price of the Warrants were higher than the market pricereceiving shares of our Common Stock on the execution date of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement but may be lower than the market price upon conversion.

Accordingly, Philou is prohibited from converting the Series B Preferred Stock and/or exercising the Series B Warrants and receiving shares of the Company’s Common Stock unless shareholderstockholder approval is obtained for the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement.warrants other than the June Warrant. We are seeking stockholder approval for the exercise by Esousa of all the warrants referred to in this Proposal No. 3 as of the date of this proxy statement.

 

Effect of Proposal on Current ShareholdersStockholders

 

If this Proposal No. 43 is adopted, based on the Series B Conversion Price and Series B Warrant Exercise Price (and provided the Company has sufficient authorized shares of Common Stock to allow for such conversion or exercise), up to a maximum of 2,857,1423,850,220 shares of Common Stock would be issuable upon conversion of Series B Preferred Stock and exercise of the Series B Warrants.issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent approximately 17.1%7.2% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our shareholders,stockholders and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued upon conversion of Series B Preferred Stock and exercise of the Series B Warrantsthese warrants could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline as well as result in substantial dilution to other shareholdersstockholders since PhilouEsousa may ultimately convertexercise and sell the full amount issuable on conversion.exercise. This means that our current shareholdersstockholders will own a smaller interest in our companyCompany and will have less ability to influence significant corporate decisions requiring shareholderstockholder approval.

 


Further Information.Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

The termsexercise of the Certificate of Determination for the Series B Preferred Stock and the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, the Form of Warrants, and Form of Registration Rights Agreement are complex and only briefly summarized above. For further information, please refer to the descriptions contained in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 9, 2017, and the transaction documents filed as exhibits to such report. The discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference to such filed transaction documents.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The issuance of the Series B Preferred Stockthese warrants requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends a vote FOR“FOR” the Approvalapproval issuance of Common Stock upon of the conversion ofexercise these warrants for up to 500,0003,850,220 shares of Series B Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock and the exercise of warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock in order to comply with RuleRule 713 of the NYSE American.

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PROPOSAL NO. 4

APPROVAL OF THE 2021 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

Overview

On April 26, 2021, the Board adopted, upon the recommendation of the Compensation Committee, the 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2021 Plan”), subject to and effective upon stockholder approval at the Meeting. We are asking our stockholders to approve the 2021 Plan in order to permit the Company to use the 2021 Plan to achieve the Company's performance, recruiting, retention and incentive goals.

The 2021 Plan includes a variety of forms of awards, including stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units and dividend equivalents to allow the Company to adapt its incentive program to meet the needs of the Company in the changing business environment in which the Company operates.

We strongly believe that the approval of the 2021 Plan is essential to our continued success. We believe that equity is an important and significant component of our employees’ compensation. The Board further believes that equity incentives motivate high levels of performance, align the interests of our employees and stockholders by giving directors, employees and consultants the perspective of an owner with an equity stake in the Company, and provide an effective means of recognizing their contributions to the success of the Company. The Board and management believe that the ability to grant equity incentives will be important to the future success of the Company and is in the best interests of the Company's stockholders.

One of the requirements of  “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) is that the material terms of performance-based awards be approved by stockholders. The material terms include: (i) the employees eligible to receive compensation, (ii) a description of the business criteria upon which a performance goal may be based, and (iii) the maximum amount of compensation that can be paid to an employee under awards intended to satisfy the performance-based compensation exception under Section 162(m). Stockholder approval of the 2021 Plan is intended to constitute approval of each of these aspects of the 2021 Plan for purposes of the approval requirements of Section 162(m). However, nothing in this proposal precludes the Company or the Compensation Committee, which administers the 2021 Plan, from granting awards that do not qualify for tax deductibility under Section 162(m), nor is there any guarantee that awards intended to qualify for tax deductibility under Section 162(m) will ultimately be viewed as so qualifying by the Internal Revenue Service. If stockholders fail to reapprove the material terms of performance-based awards under the 2021 Plan, we may continue to pay performance-based compensation thereunder in the future, even though any such compensation paid may not meet the conditions for tax deductibility under Section 162(m).

The potential dilution resulting from issuing all of the proposed 7,500,000 shares under the 2021 Plan, assuming the 2021 Plan is approved by the stockholders, would be 13.1%, (giving effect to such issuance).

We are seeking stockholder approval of the 2021 Plan in order to satisfy certain legal requirements, including making awards under it eligible for beneficial tax treatment. In addition, the Board regards stockholder approval of the 2021 Plan as desirable and consistent with good corporate governance practices.

Assuming stockholders approve the 2021 Plan, the 2021 Plan will be effective as the date of the Annual Meeting.

Summary of the 2021 Plan

The following is a summary of the material terms of the 2021 Plan and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the 2021 Plan, attached as Appendix B to this Proxy Statement.

General. The 2021 Plan would authorize the grant to eligible individuals of (1) stock options (incentive and nonstatutory), (2) restricted stock, (3) stock appreciation rights, or SARs, (4) restricted stock units, and (5) other stock-based compensation.

Stock Subject to the 2021 Plan. The maximum number of shares of our Common Stock that may be issued under the 2021 Plan is 7,500,000 shares, which amount will be increased to the extent that compensated granted under the 2021 Plan are forfeited, expire or are settled for cash (except as otherwise provided in the 2021 Plan).

Substitute awards (awards made or shares issued by the Company in assumption of, or in substitution or exchange for, awards previously granted, or the right or obligation to make future awards, in each case by a company acquired by the Company or any Company subsidiary or with which the Company or any subsidiary combines) will not reduce the shares authorized for grant under the 2021 Plan, nor will shares subject to a substitute award be added to the shares available for issuance or transfer under the 2021 Plan.

No Liberal Share Recycling. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, any and all stock that is (i) withheld or tendered in payment of an option exercise price; (ii) withheld by the Company or tendered by the grantee to satisfy any tax withholding obligation with respect to any award; (iii) covered by a SAR that it is settled in stock, without regard to the number of shares of stock that are actually issued to the grantee upon exercise; or (vi) reacquired by the Company on the open market or otherwise using cash proceeds from the exercise of options, shall not be added to the maximum number of shares of stock that may be issued under the 2021 Plan.

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Eligibility. Employees of, and consultants to, our Company or its affiliates and members of our Board are eligible to receive equity awards under the 2021 Plan. Only our employees, and employees of our parent and subsidiary corporations, if any, are eligible to receive Incentive Stock Options. Employees, directors (including non-employee directors) and consultants of or for our Company and its affiliates are eligible to receive Nonstatutory Stock Options, Restricted Stock, Purchase Rights and any other form of award the 2021 Plan authorizes.

Purpose. The purpose of the 2021 Plan is to promote the interests of the Company and its stockholders by providing executive officers, employees, non-employee directors, and key advisors of the Company and its defined subsidiaries with appropriate incentives and rewards to encourage them to enter into and remain in their positions with the Company and to acquire a proprietary interest in the long-term success of the Company, as well as to reward the performance of these individuals in fulfilling their personal responsibilities for long-range and annual achievements.

Administration. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, the Compensation Committee administers the 2021 Plan. The Compensation Committee is composed solely of “non-employee directors” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, “outside directors” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, and “independent directors” within the meaning of NYSE American listing standards. The Compensation Committee has the power, in its discretion, to grant awards under the 2021 Plan, to select the individuals to whom awards are granted, to determine the terms of the grants, to interpret the provisions of the 2021 Plan and to otherwise administer the 2021 Plan. Except as prohibited by applicable law or any rule promulgated by a national securities exchange to which the Company may in the future be subject, the Compensation Committee may delegate all or any of its responsibilities and powers under the 2021 Plan to one or more of its members, including, without limitation, the power to designate participants and determine the amount, timing and term of awards under the 2021 Plan. In no event, however, shall the Compensation Committee have the power to accelerate the payment or vesting of any award, other than in the event of death, disability, retirement or a change of control of the Company.

The 2021 Plan provides that members of the Compensation Committee shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company from any loss or expense resulting from claims and litigation arising from actions related to the 2021 Plan.

Term. If the 2021 Plan is approved, the 2021 Plan will be effective July 6, 2021, and awards may be granted through July 5, 2031. No awards may be granted under the 2021 Plan subsequent to that date. The Board may suspend or terminate the 2021 Plan without stockholder approval or ratification at any time or from time to time.

Amendments. Subject to the terms of the 2021 Plan, the Compensation Committee as administrator has the sole discretion to interpret the provisions of the 2021 Plan and outstanding awards. Our Board generally may amend or terminate the 2021 Plan at any time and for any reason, except that no amendment, suspension, or termination may impair the rights of any participant without his or her consent, and except that approval of our stockholders is required for any amendment that:

·Increases the number of shares of Common Stock subject to the 2021 Plan;
·Decreases the price at which grants may be granted;
·Reprices existing options;
·Materially increases the benefits to participants; or
·Changes the class of persons eligible to receive grants under the 2021 Plan.

Repricing Prohibition. Other than in connection with certain corporate events, the Compensation Committee shall not, without the approval of the Company’s stockholders, (a) lower the option price per share of an option or SAR after it is granted, (b) cancel an Option or SAR when the exercise price per share exceeds the fair market value of one share in exchange for cash or another award (other than in connection with a change of control), or (c) take any other action with respect to an Option or SAR that would be treated as a repricing under the rules and regulations of the principal U.S. national securities exchange on which the Company’s shares are then listed.

Minimum Vesting Requirement. Grantees of full-value awards (i.e., awards other than options and SARs), will be required to continue to provide services to the Company or an affiliated company for not less than one-year following the date of grant in order for any such full-value Awards to fully or partially vest (other than in case of death, disability or a Change of Control). Notwithstanding the foregoing, up to five percent (5%) of the available shares of stock authorized for issuance under the 2021 Plan may provide for vesting of full-value awards, partially or in full, in less than one-year.

Adjustments upon Changes in Capitalization. In the event of any merger, reorganization, consolidation, recapitalization, dividend or distribution (whether in cash, shares or other property, other than a regular cash dividend), stock split, reverse stock split, spin-off or similar transaction or other change in our corporate structure affecting our Common Stock or the value thereof, appropriate adjustments to the 2021 Plan and awards will be made as the Board determines to be equitable or appropriate, including adjustments in the number and class of shares of stock available for issuance under the 2021 Plan, the number, class and exercise or grant price of shares subject to awards outstanding under the 2021 Plan, and the limits on the number of awards that any person may receive.

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Change of Control. Agreements evidencing awards under the 2021 Plan may provide that upon a Change of Control (as defined in the 2021 Plan), unless otherwise provided in the agreement evidencing an award), outstanding Awards may be cancelled and terminated without payment if the consideration payable with respect to one share of Stock in connection with the Change of Control is less than the exercise price or grant price applicable to such Award, as applicable.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of the 2021 Plan to the contrary, the vesting, payment, purchase or distribution of an Award may not be accelerated by reason of a Change of Control for any participant unless the Grantee’s employment is involuntarily terminated as a result of the Change of Control as provided in the Award agreement or in any other written agreement, including an employment agreement, between us and the participant. If the Change of Control results in the involuntary termination of participant’s employment, outstanding awards will immediately vest, become fully exercisable and may thereafter be exercised.

Generally, under the 2021 Plan, a Change of Control occurs upon (i) the consummation of a reorganization, merger or consolidation of our Company with or into another entity, pursuant to which our stockholders immediately prior to the transaction do not own more than 50% of the total combined voting power after the transaction, (ii) the consummation of the sale, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets, (iii) certain changes in the majority of our Board from those in office on the effective date of the 2021 Plan, (iv) the acquisition of more than 50% of the total combined voting power in our outstanding securities by any person, or (v) the Company is dissolved or liquidated.

Types of Awards

Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options and Nonstatutory Stock Options are granted pursuant to award agreements adopted by our Compensation Committee. Our Compensation Committee determines the exercise price for a stock option, within the terms and conditions of the 2021 Plan; provided, that the exercise price of an Incentive Stock Option cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our Common Stock on the date of grant. Options granted under the 2021 Plan vest at the rate specified by our Compensation Committee.

The Compensation Committee determines the term of stock options granted under the 2021 Plan, up to a maximum of 10 years, except in the case of certain Incentive Stock Options, as described below. The Compensation Committee will also determine the length of period during which an optionee may exercise their options if an optionee’s relationship with us, or any of our affiliates, ceases for any reason; for Incentive Stock Options, this period is limited by applicable law. The Compensation Committee may extend the exercise period in the event that exercise of the option following termination of service is prohibited by applicable securities laws. In no event, however, may an option be exercised beyond the expiration of its term unless the term is extended in accordance with applicable law.

Acceptable consideration for the purchase of Common Stock issued upon the exercise of a stock option will be determined by the Compensation Committee and may include (a) cash or its equivalent, (b) delivering a properly executed notice of exercise of the option to us and a broker, with irrevocable instructions to the broker promptly to deliver to us the amount necessary to pay the exercise price of the option, (c) any other form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the Compensation Committee or (d) any combination of (a), (b) or (c).

Unless the Compensation Committee provides otherwise, options are generally transferable in accordance with applicable law, provided that any transferee of such options agrees to become bound by the terms of the 2021 Plan. An optionee may also designate a beneficiary who may exercise the option following the optionee’s death.

Incentive or Nonstatutory Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to our employees, and the employees of our parent or subsidiary corporations, if any. The Compensation Committee may grant awards of Incentive or Nonstatutory Stock Options that are fully vested on the date made, to any of our employees, directors or consultants. Option Awards are granted pursuant to award agreements adopted by our Compensation Committee. To the extent required by applicable law, the aggregate fair market value, determined at the time of grant, of shares of our Common Stock with respect to Incentive Stock Options that are exercisable for the first time by an optionee during any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. To the extent required by applicable law, no Incentive Stock Option may be granted to any person who, at the time of the grant, owns or is deemed to own stock possessing more than 10% of our total combined voting power or that of any of our affiliates unless (a) the option exercise price is at least 110% of the fair market value of the stock subject to the option on the date of grant and (b) the term of the incentive stock option does not exceed five years from the date of grant.

Stock Appreciation Rights. An SAR is the right to receive stock, cash, or other property equal in value to the difference between the grant price of the SAR and the market price of the Company’s Common Stock on the exercise date. SARs may be granted independently or in tandem with an Option at the time of grant of the related Option. An SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be exercisable only to the extent the underlying Option is exercisable. An SAR confers on the grantee a right to receive an amount with respect to each share of Common Stock subject thereto, upon exercise thereof, equal to the excess of (A) the fair market value of one share of Common Stock on the date of exercise over (B) the grant price of the SAR (which in the case of an SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be equal to the exercise price of the underlying Option, and which in the case of any other SAR shall be such price as the Compensation Committee may determine but in no event shall be less than the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date of grant of such SAR).

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units. Restricted Stock is Common Stock that the Company grants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting criteria. American Restricted Stock Unit is a right to receive stock or cash equal to the value of a share of stock at the end of a specified period that the Company grants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting criteria. The grant of these awards under the 2021 Plan are subject to such terms, conditions and restrictions as the Compensation Committee determines consistent with the terms of the 2021 Plan.

At the time of grant, the Compensation Committee may place restrictions on Restricted Stock and restricted stock units that shall lapse, in whole or in part, only upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year, and if the award is granted to a 162(m) Officer, the grant of the award and the establishment of the Performance Goals shall be made during the period required under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Except to the extent restricted under the award agreement relating to the Restricted Stock, a grantee granted Restricted Stock shall have all of the rights of a stockholder including the right to vote Restricted Stock and the right to receive dividends.

Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement, upon the vesting of a Restricted Stock Unit, there shall be delivered to the grantee, within 30 days of the date on which such award (or any portion thereof) vests, the number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of restricted stock units becoming so vested.

Other Stock-Based Awards. The 2021 Plan also allows the Compensation Committee to grant “Other Stock-Based Awards,” which means a right or other interest that may be denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, or related to, Common Stock. Subject to the limitations contained in the 2021 Plan, this includes, without limitation, (i) unrestricted stock awarded as a bonus or upon the attainment of Performance Goals or otherwise as permitted under the 2021 Plan and (ii) a right to acquire stock from the Company containing terms and conditions prescribed by the Compensation Committee. At the time of the grant of Other Stock-Based Awards, the Compensation Committee may place restrictions on the payout or vesting of Other Stock-Based Awards that shall lapse, in whole or in part, only upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year, and if the award is granted to a 162(m) Officer, the grant of the Award and the establishment of the Performance Goals shall be made during the period required under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Other Stock-Based Awards may not be granted with the right to receive dividend equivalent payments.

 


Performance Awards. Performance awards provide participants with the opportunity to receive shares of our Common Stock, cash or other property based on performance and other vesting conditions. Performance awards may be granted from time to time as determined at the discretion of the Board, or the Compensation Committee (as applicable). Subject to the share limit and maximum dollar value set forth above under “Limits per Participant,” the Board, or the Compensation Committee (as applicable), has the discretion to determine (i) the number of shares of Common Stock under, or the dollar value of, a performance award and (ii) the conditions that must be satisfied for grant or for vesting, which typically will be based principally or solely on achievement of performance goals.

Performance Criteria. With respect to awards intended to qualify as performance-based compensation under Code Section 162(m), a committee of “outside directors” (as defined in Code Section 162(m)) with authority delegated by our Board will determine the terms and conditions of such awards, including the performance criteria. The performance goals for restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance awards or other share-based awards shall be based on the attainment of specified levels of one or any combination of the following:

·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified percentage increase in, revenues, earnings, income before taxes and extraordinary items, net income, operating income, earnings before or after deduction for all or any portion of income tax, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization or a combination of any or all of the foregoing;
·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax profits including, without limitation, that attributable to continuing and/or other operations;
·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, operational cash flow;
·the achievement of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in, all or a portion of, the Company’s bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations of the Company, which may be calculated net of such cash balances and/or other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Compensation Committee;
·earnings per share or the attainment of a specified percentage increase in earnings per share or earnings per share from continuing operations;
·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in return on capital employed or return on invested capital;
·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax return on stockholders’ equity;

·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, economic value added targets based on a cash flow return on investment formula;
·the attainment of certain target levels in, or specified increases in, the fair market value of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock;
·the growth in the value of an investment in the Company’s Common Stock;
·the attainment of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level in or increase in, all or a portion of controllable expenses or costs or other expenses or costs;
·gross or net sales, revenue and growth of sales revenue (either before or after cost of goods, selling and general administrative expenses, research and development expenses and any other expenses or interest);
·total stockholder return;
·return on assets or net assets;
·return on sales;
·operating profit or net operating profit;
·operating margin;
·gross or net profit margin;
·cost reductions or savings;
·productivity;
·operating efficiency;
·working capital;
·market share;
·customer satisfaction; and
·to the extent that an Award is not intended to comply with Section 162(m) of the Code, other measures of performance selected by the Board.

The performance goals may be based solely by reference to our performance or the performance of one or more of our subsidiaries, parents, divisions, business segments or business units, or based upon the relative performance of other companies or upon comparisons of any of the indicators of performance relative to other companies. The authorized committee of outside directors may also exclude under the terms of the performance awards, the impact of an event or occurrence that the committee determines should appropriately be excluded, including (i) restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items, and other unusual or non-recurring charges, or (ii) changes in generally accepted accounting principles or practices.

In connection with the approval of the 2021 Plan, the stockholders also are being asked to approve the above criteria for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code.

New Plan Benefits under the 2021 Plan

Because future awards under the 2021 Plan will be granted in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, the type, number, recipients, and other terms of such awards cannot be determined at this time.

U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

The following is a brief description of the material United States federal income tax consequences associated with awards under the 2021 Plan. It is based on existing United States laws and regulations, and there can be no assurance that those laws and regulations will not change in the future. Tax consequences in other countries may vary. This information is not intended as tax advice to anyone, including participants in the 2021 Plan.

Stock Options. Neither incentive stock option grants nor non-qualified stock option grants cause any tax consequences to the participant or the Company at the time of grant. Upon the exercise of a non-qualified stock option, the excess of the market value of the shares acquired over their exercise price is ordinary income to the participant and is deductible by the Company. The participant’s tax basis for the shares is the market value thereof at the time of exercise. Any gain or loss realized upon a subsequent disposition of the stock will generally constitute capital gain, in connection with which the Company will not be entitled to a tax deduction.

Upon the exercise of an incentive stock option, the participant will not realize taxable income, but the excess of the fair market value of the stock over the exercise price may give rise to alternative minimum tax. When the stock acquired upon exercise of an incentive stock option is subsequently sold, the participant will recognize income equal to the difference between the sales price and the exercise price of the option. If the sale occurs after the expiration of two years from the grant date and one year from the exercise date, the income will constitute long-term capital gain. If the sale occurs prior to that time, the participant will recognize ordinary income to the extent of the lesser of the gain realized upon the sale or the difference between the fair market value of the acquired stock at the time of exercise and the exercise price; any additional gain will constitute capital gain. The Company will be entitled to a deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant, but no deduction in connection with any capital gain recognized by the participant. If the participant exercises an incentive stock option more than three months after his or her termination of employment due to retirement or other separation other than death or disability, or more than twelve months after his or her termination of employment due to death or permanent disability, he or she is deemed to have exercised a non-qualified stock option.

Stock Appreciation Rights. A participant granted a stock appreciation right under the 2021 Plan will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time the award is granted. When the participant exercises the stock appreciation right, the amount of cash and the fair market value of any shares of stock or other consideration received will be ordinary income to the participant and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time. Compensation realized by the participant on the exercise of the stock appreciation right should qualify as performance-based compensation under the Code and thus not be subject to the $1,000,000 deductibility limit of Code Section 162(m).

Restricted Stock. Restricted stock is not taxable to a participant at the time of grant, but instead is included in ordinary income (at its then fair market value) when the restrictions lapse. A participant may elect, however, to recognize income at the time of grant, in which case the fair market value of the restricted shares at the time of grant is included in ordinary income and there is no further income recognition when the restrictions lapse. If a participant makes such an election and thereafter forfeits the restricted shares, he or she will be entitled to no tax deduction, capital loss or other tax benefit. The Company is entitled to a tax deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

A participant’s tax basis for restricted shares will be equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by the participant. The participant will recognize capital gain (or loss) on a sale of the restricted stock if the sale price exceeds (or is lower than) such basis. The holding period for restricted shares for purposes of characterizing gain or loss on the sale of any shares as long- or short-term commences at the time the participant recognizes ordinary income pursuant to an award. The Company is not entitled to a tax deduction corresponding to any capital gain or loss of the participant.

Restricted Stock Units. A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a restricted stock unit award is granted. Upon receipt of shares of stock (or the equivalent value in cash or any combination of cash and the Company Common Stock) in settlement of a restricted stock unit award, a participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock and cash received as of that date (less any amount he or she paid for the stock and cash), and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

Performance Awards. A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a performance award is granted (for example, when the performance goals are established). Upon receipt of stock or cash (or a combination thereof) in settlement of a performance award, the participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock and cash received, and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

Code Section 409A. If an award is subject to Code Section 409A (which relates to nonqualified deferred compensation plans), and if the requirements of Section 409A are not met, the taxable events as described above could apply earlier than described, and could result in the imposition of additional taxes and penalties. All awards that comply with the terms of the 2021 Plan, however, are intended to be exempt from the application of Code Section 409A or meet the requirements of Section 409A in order to avoid such early taxation and penalties.

Tax Withholding. The Company has the right to deduct or withhold, or require a participant to remit to the Company, an amount sufficient to satisfy federal, state and local taxes (including employment taxes) required by law to be withheld with respect to any exercise, lapse of restriction or other taxable event arising as a result of the 2021 Plan. The Compensation Committee may, at the time the award is granted or thereafter, require or permit that any such withholding requirement be satisfied, in whole or in part, by delivery of, or withholding from the award, shares having a fair market value on the date of withholding equal to the amount required to be withheld for tax purposes.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

Approval of the 2021 Plan requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of the Company's Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of the 2021 Plan.

 

PROPOSAL NO. 5

 

APPROVAL OF THE ISSUANCE OF COMMON STOCK UPON THE CONVERSION OF 378,776 SHARESAPPROVAL OF THE COMPANY2021 EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN

Overview

We are asking stockholders to approve the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2021 ESPP”), which the Board has approved subject to the approval of our stockholders.

We strongly believe in improving opportunities for our employees to reap the benefits of increases in our stock’s value. The ability to contribute a portion of earnings to purchase our shares would represent a key benefit for our employees. We believe that such a program improves our ability to attract, retain and incentivize our talent, and ultimately, better aligns the interests of our employees with those of our stockholders. As of March 31, 2021, we anticipate that approximately 150 of our employees will be eligible to participate in the 2021 ESPP.

Summary of the 2021 ESPP

The following general description of material features of the 2021 ESPP is qualified in its entirety by reference to the provisions of the 2021 ESPP set forth in Appendix C.

Purpose and Eligibility. The 2021 ESPP is intended to assist our employees in acquiring share ownership interest in our company, to encourage our employees to remain with us, and to better align their interests with those of our stockholders. The 2021 ESPP is intended to have two components: a component intended to qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “S SERIES D PREFERRED STOCKCode”) (the “423 Component”) and a component that is not intended to so qualify (the “Non-423 Component”). Except as otherwise provided, the Non-423 Component will be operated and administered in the same manner as the 423 Component, except where prohibited by law.

Our executive officers and all of our other employees who have worked at our company for at least six months will be allowed to participate in the 2021 ESPP, provided that the administrator, in its discretion, may also exclude any or all of the following unless prohibited by applicable law, so long as, for offerings under the 423 Component, any such exclusion is applied uniformly to all employees:

any employee who is customarily scheduled to work 20 hours or less per week;

any employee whose customary employment is not more than five months in a calendar year;

any employee who is not employed by us prior to the applicable exercise date; and

any employee who is a highly compensated employee (within the meaning of Section 414(q) of the Code) or any highly compensated employee with compensation above a specified level, who is an officer, or who is subject to the disclosure requirements of Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act; or

any employee who is a citizen or resident of a jurisdiction outside the United States if the grant of the option is prohibited under the laws of the jurisdiction governing such employee or compliance with the laws of the jurisdiction would cause the Section 423 Component or any offering or option granted thereunder to violate the requirements of Section 423 of the Code.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, any employee who, after the granting of the option, would possess 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of shares of our company shall not be eligible. In addition, no employee shall be granted an option under the Section 423 Component which permits the employee to purchase shares under all of our “employee stock purchase plans” that would accrue at a rate which exceeds $25,000 of fair market value of our stock (determined at the time such option is granted) for each calendar year in which such option is outstanding at any time.

Administration. The 2021 ESPP will be administered by the Compensation Committee or its delegates, subject to applicable laws. The administrator will have full and exclusive authority to interpret the terms of the 2021 ESPP and determine eligibility, subject to the conditions of the 2021 ESPP, as described below.

Share Reserve. The maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued pursuant to the 2021 ESPP will be equal to 980,000 shares. In addition, on each January 1 beginning on January 1, 2022 and ending on January 1, 2031, the aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance under the 2021 ESPP will be increased automatically by the number of shares equal to 1% of the total number of all classes of our outstanding shares of common stock on the immediately preceding December 31; except that the administrator may in its sole discretion reduce the amount of the increase in any particular year.

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Contributions and Purchases. The 2021 ESPP will permit participants to purchase common stock through contributions (in the form of payroll deductions or otherwise to the extent permitted by the administrator) of up to 15% of their eligible compensation, which includes a participant’s regular and recurring straight time gross earnings or base salary, commissions and payments for overtime and shift premiums, but excludes bonuses, equity compensation and other similar compensation. Subject to the eligibility requirements discussed above, a participant may purchase a maximum of 1,000 shares of common stock during each six-month offering period. The 2021 ESPP initially will have purchase periods of approximately 6 months in duration commencing with the first trading day after one exercise date and ending with the next exercise date, as determined by the administrator. The offering periods will start on such trading days as determined by the administrator prior to each such offering period. The administrator may, in its discretion, modify the terms of future purchase periods and offering periods, provided that no offering period may be longer than 27 months.

Amounts contributed and accumulated by the participant during any offering period will be used to purchase shares of our common stock at the end of each six-month purchase period. The purchase price of the shares will be 85% of the lower of the fair market value

of our common stock on the first trading day of the offering period or on the last trading day of the offering period.

Withdrawal and Termination of Participation. A participant may withdraw from the 2021 ESPP voluntarily at any time by filing a notice of withdrawal prior to the close of business on the date established by the administrator. A participant will be deemed to have elected to withdraw from the plan upon the termination of the participant’s employment for any reason or in the event the participant is no longer eligible to participate in the 2021 ESPP.

Restriction on Transfers. A participant may not transfer rights granted under the 2021 ESPP other than by will, the laws of descent and distribution or as otherwise provided under the 2021 ESPP.

Adjustments. In the event of certain changes in our capitalization, to prevent dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits available under the 2021 ESPP, the administrator will make adjustments, as it may deem equitable, to the number and class of shares that may be delivered, the applicable purchase price for shares, and/or the numerical share limits, pursuant to the 2021 ESPP.

Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of our proposed liquidation or dissolution, any offering period then in progress will be shortened by setting a new exercise date, and will terminate immediately prior to such liquidation or dissolution unless otherwise determined by the administrator. The administrator will notify participants of the new exercise date in writing or electronically, at which time any participant’s purchase rights will be automatically exercised, unless the participant has earlier withdrawn from the offering period.

Certain Transactions. In the event of a merger, consolidation or similar transaction, an acquiring or successor corporation may assume or substitute each outstanding option. If the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the outstanding option, the offering period then in progress will be shortened by setting a new exercise date. The administrator will notify each participant in writing or electronically that the exercise date has been changed and that the participant’s option will be exercised automatically on the new exercise date, unless the participant has already withdrawn from the offering period. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, the 2021 ESPP will be automatically terminated following a change in control (as defined in the 2021 Plan).

Summary of Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

Section 423 Component. The following summary is intended only as a general guide to the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of participation in the 2021 ESPP under the 423 Component. The summary is based on existing U.S. laws and regulations, and there can be no assurance that those laws and regulations will not change in the future. The summary does not purport to be complete and does not discuss the tax consequences upon a participant’s death, or the provisions of the income tax laws of any municipality, state or foreign country in which the participant may reside. As a result, tax consequences for any particular participant may vary based on individual circumstances.

The rights of participants to make purchases under the 2021 ESPP are intended to qualify under the provisions of Section 423 of the Code. Assuming such qualification, no income will be taxable to a participant until the sale or other disposition of shares purchased under the 2021 ESPP. Upon such sale or disposition, the participant will generally be subject to tax in an amount that depends upon the holding period of such shares prior to disposing of them.

If the shares are sold or disposed of more than two years from the first day of the offering period during which the shares were purchased and more than one year from the date of purchase, or if the participant dies while holding the shares, the participant (or his or her estate) will recognize ordinary income generally measured as the lesser of (i) the excess of the fair market value of the shares at the time such sale or disposition over the purchase price of such shares or (ii) an amount equal to 15% of the fair market value of the shares on the first day of the offering period. Any additional gain will be treated as long-term capital gain. If the shares are held for at least the holding periods described above but are sold for a price that is less than the purchase price, there will be no ordinary income and the difference will be a long-term capital loss. We will not be entitled to an income tax deduction with respect to the grant or exercise of a right to purchase our shares, or the sale of such shares by a participant, where such participant holds such shares for at least the holding periods described above.

Any sale or other disposition of shares before the expiration of the holding periods described above will be a “disqualifying disposition,” and the participant will recognize ordinary income generally measured as the excess of the fair market value of the shares on the date the shares are purchased over the purchase price, and we will be entitled to an income tax deduction for such ordinary income. Any additional gain or loss on such sale or disposition will be a long-term or short-term capital gain or loss, depending on the holding period following the date the shares were purchased by the participant prior to such sale or disposition, and we will not be entitled to an income tax deduction for any such capital gain.

Non-423 Component. The following summary is intended only as a general guide to the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of participation in the 2021 ESPP under the Non-423 Component. Rights granted under the Non- 423 Component are not intended to qualify for favorable U.S. federal income tax treatment associated with rights granted under an “employee stock purchase plan” that qualifies under provisions of Section 423 of the Code. Under this component, a participant will have compensation income equal to the value of the shares at the time of purchase, less the purchase price. When a participant sells shares purchased under the ESPP, he or she also will have a capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the sales proceeds and the value of shares at the time of purchase. Any capital gain or loss will be short-term or long-term, depending on how long the shares have been held.

Any compensation income that a participant receives upon sale of shares that he or she purchased under the Non-423 Component is subject to withholding for income, Medicare and social security taxes, as applicable.

New Plan Benefits. Participation in the ESPP is voluntary and each eligible employee will make his or her own decision whether and to what extent to participate in the ESPP. It is therefore not possible to determine the benefits or amounts that will be received in the future by individual employees or groups of employees under the ESPP.

Other Information. The administrator may at any time amend, suspend or terminate the 2021 ESPP, provided that, subject to certain exceptions described in the 2021 ESPP, no such action may adversely affect any outstanding rights to purchase stock. The 2021 ESPP will continue in effect unless earlier terminated by the administrator.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

Approval of the 2021 ESPP requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of the Company's Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of the 2021 ESPP.

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PROPOSAL NO. 6

APPROVAL OF 2020 EQUITY ISSUANCES TO DIRECTORS AND UPON THE EXERCISE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE UP TO 1,000,000 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK,IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SHAREEXCHANGE AGREEMENT, DATED APRIL 28, 2017, IN ORDER COMPLY WITH RULE 712 OF THE NYSE AMERICAN AND CALIFORNIA LAWEXECUTIVE OFFICERS

 

Terms of the TransactionIssuances

On September 27, 2020, each independent director received options to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $1.79 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/12th increments over one (1) year beginning on the grant date. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On September 27, 2020, each non-independent director received options to purchase 200,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $1.79 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on the grant date. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On November 2, 2020, the Board determined to grant, subject to stockholder approval, to each independent director, 100,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in two equal installments on each of the Meeting Date and November 15, 2021.

On November 2, 2020, the Board determined to grant, subject to stockholder approval, to each non-independent director, 200,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in three equal installments on each of the Meeting Date, November 15, 2021 and May 15, 2022.

Why the Company Needs Stockholder Approval

Rule 711 of the NYSE American requires stockholder approval with respect to the establishment of (or material amendment to) a stock option or purchase plan or other equity compensation arrangement pursuant to which options or stock may be acquired by officers, directors, employees, or consultants.

Effect of Proposal on Current Stockholders

If this Proposal No. 6 is adopted, a maximum of 1,950,000 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent 3.8% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our stockholders, and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The grant of options and other equity set forth in this Proposal No. 6 to the directors of the Company requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of 2020 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company, in order to comply with Rule 711 of the NYSE American.

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PROPOSAL NO. 7

APPROVAL OF 2021 EQUITY ISSUANCES TO DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Terms of the Issuances

 

On April 28, 2017,26, 2021, each independent director received options to purchase 150,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.55 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on January 1, 2022. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On April 26, 2021, each non-independent director received options to purchase 400,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.55 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on January 1, 2022. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On January 8, 2021, each independent director received a grant, subject to stockholder approval, of 50,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in four installments on each of May 15, 2022, November 15, 2022, May 1, 2023 and November 15, 2023.

On January 8, 2021, each non-independent director received a grant, subject to stockholder approval, of 400,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in four installments on each of November 15, 2022, May 1, 2023, November 15, 2023 and May 15, 2024.

On May 21, 2021, Glen Tellock was appointed to the Board effective June 4, 2021. In connection therewith, the Board determined to issue Mr. Tellock options to purchase 200,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.46 per share. The options shall vest semiannually in six (6) increments over three (3) years beginning on November 21, 2021. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

Further, on May 21, 2021, Mr. Tellock was granted, subject to approval by the stockholders and the NYSE American, 150,000 shares of Common Stock, which shall vest in semi-annual 1/6th increments over three (3) years beginning on November 15, 2021.

Why the Company Needs Stockholder Approval

Rule 711 of the NYSE American requires stockholder approval with respect to the establishment of (or material amendment to) a stock option or purchase plan or other equity compensation arrangement pursuant to which options or stock may be acquired by officers, directors, employees, or consultants.

Effect of Proposal on Current Stockholders

If this Proposal No. 7 is adopted, provided the Company has sufficient authorized shares of Common Stock, a maximum of 3,750,000 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent 7.0% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our stockholders, and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The grant of options and other equity set forth in this Proposal No. 7 to the directors of the Company requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of 2021 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company, in order to comply with Rule 711 of the NYSE American.

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INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Executive Officers

The executive officers are elected by our Board and hold office until their successors are elected and duly qualified. There are no family relationships between any of our directors or executive officers. The current executive officers of the Company are as follows:

NameAgeOffices Held
Milton C. Ault, III51Executive Chairman of the Board
William B. Horne52Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman
Henry Nisser52President, General Counsel and Director
Kenneth Cragun59Chief Financial Officer

Biographical information about Mr. Ault is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Biographical information about Mr. Horne is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Biographical information about Mr. Nisser is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Kenneth S. Cragun

Mr. Cragun was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company on August 19, 2020. Mr. Cragun had served as the Company’s Chief Accounting Officer since October 1, 2018. Mr. Cragun has been the Chief Financial Officer of Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a development stage entity seeking to prevent, treat and cure Alzheimer’s Disease, since October of 2018. He served as a CFO Partner at Hardesty, LLC, a national executive services firm since October 2016. His assignments at Hardesty included serving as CFO of CorVel Corporation, a $1.1 billion market cap publicly traded company (NASDAQ: CRVL) and a nationwide leader in technology driven, healthcare-related, risk management programs and of RISA Tech, Inc. a private structural design and optimization software company. Mr. Cragun was also CFO of two NASDAQ-listed companies, Local Corporation, from April 2009 to September 2016, which operated Local.com, a U.S. top 100 website, and Modtech Holdings, Inc., from June 2006 to March 2009, a supplier of modular buildings. Prior thereto, he had financial leadership roles with increasing responsibilities at MIVA, Inc., ImproveNet, Inc., NetCharge Inc., C-Cube Microsystems, Inc, and 3-Com Corporation. Mr. Cragun serves on the Board of Directors and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Verb Technology Company, Inc. (NASDAQ: VERB). Mr. Cragun began his professional career at Deloitte. Mr. Cragun holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Colorado State University-Pueblo. Mr. Cragun’s industry experience is vast, with extensive experience in fast-growth environments and building teams in more than 20 countries. Mr. Cragun has led multiple financing transactions, including IPOs, PIPEs, convertible debt, term loans and lines of credit.

Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

Except as disclosed below or under Proposal No. 1, to our knowledge, none of our current executive officers has, during the past ten years:

been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);

had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against the business or property of the person, or of any partnership, corporation or business association of which he or she was a general partner or executive officer, either at the time of the bankruptcy filing or within two years prior to that time;

been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction or federal or state authority, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting, his or her involvement in any type of business, securities, futures, commodities, investment, banking, savings and loan, or insurance activities, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity;

been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated;

been the subject of, or a party to, any federal or state judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated (not including any settlement of a civil proceeding among private litigants), relating to an alleged violation of any federal or state securities or commodities law or regulation, any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order, or any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity; or

been the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.

* Mr. Cragun served as Chief Financial Officer of Local Corporation (April 2009 to September 2016), formerly based in Irvine, California, and, in June 2015, Local Corporation filed a voluntary petition in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California seeking relief under the provisions of Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Summary Compensation Table

The following Summary Compensation Table sets forth all compensation earned in all capacities during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, by our then Chief Executive Officer. Because we are a Smaller Reporting Company, we only have to report information of our Chief Executive Officer and our two other most highly compensated executive officers.

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE 
Name and principal positionYearSalary ($)Bonus ($)Stock Awards ($) (1)Option
Awards ($) (1)
All Other Compensation ($)(2)Total ($) 
 
Milton C. Ault, III2020400,000200,0000030,202630,202 
Executive Chairman of the Board2019400,00000018,832418,832 
William B. Horne2020300,000150,0000045,164495,164 
Chief Executive Officer2019300,00010,0000017,856327,856 
Henry C. Nisser2020225,000100,0000011,825336,825 
President and General Counsel (3)2019133,33350,000005,807189,140 

(1)The values reported in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns represent the aggregate grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 718 Share Based Payments, of grants of stock options and stock awards to our named executive officer in the years shown.
(2)The amounts in “All Other Compensation” consist of health insurance benefits, vehicle allowance, long-term and short-term disability insurance benefits, and 401K matching amounts.
(3)Mr. Nisser was appointed as our General Counsel and Executive Vice President on May 1, 2019. Effective October 1, 2020, Mr. Nisser’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum. Mr. Nisser was appointed as our President in January of 2021.

Employment Agreement with Milton C. Ault, III

On June 17, 2018, the Company entered into a Share Exchange Agreementten year executive employment agreement with Milton C. Ault, III, to serve as Chief Executive Officer of the Company.  For his services, Mr. Ault will be paid a base salary of $400,000 per annum (the Share Exchange Agreement”) with Microphase Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“MPC”); Microphase Holding Company LLC, a limited liability company organized under the laws of Connecticut (“MHC”), the Ergul Family Limited Partnership, a partnership organized under the laws of Connecticut (“EFLP”) RCKJ Trust, a trust organized under the laws of New Jersey (“RCKJ” and with MHC and EFLP, the “Significant Stockholders”) and those additional persons who have executed the Share Exchange Agreement under the heading “Minority Stockholders” (collectively, the “Minority Stockholders” and with the Significant Stockholders, the “Stockholders“Base Salary”). Upon

Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Share Exchange Agreement,agreement, if the Company acquires 1,603,434meets or exceeds criteria adopted by the Company’s compensation committee (the “Compensation Committee”) for earning bonuses which shall be adopted by the Compensation Committee annually, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive an annual bonus, which percentage shall be based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Compensation Committee.

Further, Mr. Ault is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 1,250 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning on January 1, 2020, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”)  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Ault, which consent may be withheld in his discretion.

In addition, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive a performance-based award (the “CEO Performance Award”), provided that the Company, for any given fiscal year during the term of this agreement, meets the following criteria: (A) an increase in revenue, as calculated under GAAP over the previous fiscal year as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year; provided that any increase less than thirty-five percent (35%) (the “Revenue Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; (B) positive net income, as calculated under GAAP, as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year, provided that any increase less than five percent (5%) (the “Net Income Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; and (C) positive net cash flow from operations on a year-to-year basis, where cash flow is defined as the net amount of cash and cash-equivalents being transferred into and out of the Company. The CEO Performance Award shall consist of a number of shares of the Company’s common stock having a maximum value equal to ten percent (10%) of any appreciation in the Company’s Market Capitalization above the High Water Mark (as such terms are defined in the agreement) as measured by the daily average closing bid price of the Company’s common stock for the applicable fiscal year subject to proration obtained by the product of Revenue Percentage and the Net Income Percentage. If the CEO Performance Award in a fiscal year is less than ten percent (10%) due to a reduction caused by an annual shortfall in either the Revenue Percentage or the Net Income Percentage, the prior year’s targets would be deemed to have been achieved if a corresponding overage in a subsequent fiscal year results in the achievement of the cumulative targets.  The annual and cumulative targets for revenue and net income, which are provided solely for the purpose of establishing cumulative totals, are set forth in the agreement.

Upon termination of Mr. Ault’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Ault shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Ault’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Ault’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Ault a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four (4) weeks of base salary for each full year of service and credit for his service commencing from September 22, 2016, (B) should Mr. Ault provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, but in no event an amount greater than the Base Salary payable should either such period expire within two years, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Ault is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Ault would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Ault will be paid an amount equal to the greater of: (i) five times his then current Base Salary or (ii) the Separation Payment amount set forth above, without regard to whether Mr. Ault continues in the employ of the Company or its successor.

Employment Agreement with William B. Horne

On January 25, 2018, we entered into a five-year employment agreement with William Horne to serve as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the Company and its subsidiaries.  For his services, Mr. Horne will be paid a base salary of $250,000 per annum. Upon signing of the employment agreement, Mr. Horne is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $25,000.  In addition, Mr. Horne shall be eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee. Effective January 1, 2019, Mr. Horne’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum.

Further, Mr. Horne is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 1,250 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest in installments of two hundred fifty (250) shares annually over five (5) years beginning on January 1, 2019, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the SEC  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Horne, which consent may be withheld in his discretion.

Upon termination of Mr. Horne’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Horne shall be entitled to receive: (i) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (ii) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Horne’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Horne’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Horne a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (B) should Mr. Horne provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Horne is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Horne would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Horne will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment.

Employment Agreement with Henry Nisser

On April 12, 2019, the Company entered into a four-year employment agreement (the “Agreement”) with Henry Nisser to serve as General Counsel and Executive Vice President of the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries. The effective date of the Agreement is May 1, 2019. Pursuant to the Agreement, Mr. Nisser will be paid a base salary of $200,000 per annum (the “Base Salary”). Effective October 1, 2020, Mr. Nisser’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum.

Upon the effective date of the Agreement, Mr. Nisser is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $50,000, with $25,000 being payable upon the effective date and $25,000 being payable no later than September 1, 2019. In addition, Mr. Nisser shall be eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee, which bonus shall not exceed 300% of the Base Salary.

Further, Mr. Nisser is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (A) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 6,250 (taking 1 for 40 reverse split into account) shares of common stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning with the first month after the effective date, and (B) an option to purchase 200,000 shares of common stock at a per share exercise price equal to the closing market price on the effective date, which option shall have a term of seven (7) years. These options have been cancelled.

Mr. Nisser’s bonuses, if any, and all stock based compensation shall be subject to “Company Clawback Rights” if during the period that Mr. Nisser is employed by the Company and upon the termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment and for a period of two years thereafter, there is a restatement of any of the Company’s financial results from which any bonuses and stock based compensation to Mr. Nisser shall have been determined.

Upon termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Nisser shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Nisser’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Nisser’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Nisser a “Separation Payment” as follows: (a) an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (b) commencing on the date that shall be one (1) year from the effective date, should Mr. Nisser provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement within 30 days of termination, then the Company shall pay to Mr. Nisser the Base Salary (in effect immediately prior to the termination date) an amount equal to the lesser of what Mr. Nisser would have received if the employment period ended after (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 18-month period commencing on the date Executive is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the separation period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Nisser would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months. Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Nisser will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment.

Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation

At the annual meeting of stockholders on July 2, 2019, the stockholders approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers. In addition, stockholders voted, on an advisory basis, that an advisory vote on executive compensation should be held every three years.

 Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

The following table provides information on outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 2020 to the Named Executive Officers.

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2020
OPTION AWARDS
Name

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
Equity Incentive Plan
Awards: Number of
Securities Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned Options (#)
Option
Exercise
Price ($)
Option
Expiration
Date
Milton C. Ault III
William B. Horne
 Henry Nisser

Director Compensation

Beginning July 1, 2019, the Company pays each independent director an annual base amount of $35,000 annually, other than Mr. Smith, who receives a base amount of $45,000 annually due to additional services provided by Mr. Smith as a lead independent director and Mr. Ash, who receives a base amount of $45,000 annually due to additional services provided by Mr. Ash as Audit Committee Chairman. Additionally, our Board makes recommendations for adjustments to an independent director’s compensation when the level of services provided are significantly above what was anticipated.

The table below sets forth, for each non-employee director, the total amount of compensation related to his or her service during the year ended December 31, 2020:

  Fees earned orStockOptionAll other 
Name paid in cash ($)awards ($)awards ($)compensation ($)Total ($)
Robert O. Smith  70,00070,000
Jeffrey A. Bentz 60,00060,000
Mordechai Rosenberg 60,00060,000
Jodi Brichan 55,00055,000
Howard Ash (1) 38,75038,750

(1)       Mr. Ash was appointed as an independent director on August 13, 2020 and earned compensation from that date.

 On December 28, 2018, the stockholders approved the 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (as amended on May 5, 2019), which amendment was approved by the stockholders on July 19, 2019, the “2018 Stock Incentive Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 12,500, as increased to 175,000 pursuant to the foregoing amendment thereto, shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants. The 2018 Stock Incentive Plan is in addition to the Company’s (i) 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Subject Shares2017 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 2,500 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, (ii) 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 5,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, and (ii) 2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “2012 Plan”), which provides for the issuance of a maximum of 1,716 shares of the Company’s common stock to be offered to the Company’s directors, officers, employees, and consultants (collectively the “Plans”).

 The purpose of the Plans is to advance the interests of the Company by providing to key employees of the Company and its affiliates, who have substantial responsibility for the direction and management of the Company, as well as certain directors and consultants of the Company, additional incentives to exert their best efforts on behalf of the Company, to increase their proprietary interest in the success of the Company, to reward outstanding performance and to provide a means to attract and retain persons of outstanding ability to the service of the Company.

 As of December 31, 2020, options to purchase 925 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding, and 6,693 shares are available for future issuance under the Plans.

401(k) Plan

Our subsidiaries, Coolisys and Microphase, have adopted tax-qualified employee savings and retirement plan, or 401(k) plan, which generally covers all of their full-time employees. Pursuant to the 401(k) plan, eligible employees may make voluntary contributions to the plan up to a maximum of pursuant to the current Internal Revenue Code limits. The Microphase 401(k) plan permits, but does not require, matching contributions by them on behalf of plan participants. The Coolisys 401(k) plan, includes matching contributions at the rate of (1) $1.00 for each $1.00 contributed, up to 3% of the base salary and (2) $0.50 for each $1.00 contributed thereafter, up to 5% of the base salary and permits make discretionary contributions. The 401(k) plans are intended to qualify under Sections 401(k) and 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Contributions to such a qualified plan are deductible by the Company when made, and neither the contributions nor the income earned on those contributions is taxable to plan participants until withdrawn. All 401(k) plan contributions are credited to separate accounts maintained in trust.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

The following table sets forth certain information concerning the number of shares of our Common Stock of MPC (the “MPC CommonStock”), including such shares presently underlying thebeneficially owned based on 49,774,538 issued and outstanding preferredshares of Common Stock as of the Record Date by: (i) each of our directors; (ii) each of our named executive officers; and (iii) each person known to us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock based upon Schedules 13G or 13D filed with the SEC.

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Other than as described in the notes to the table, we believe that all persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to shares beneficially owned by them. All share ownership figures include shares issuable upon exercise of options or warrants exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date, which are deemed outstanding and beneficially owned by such person for purposes of computing his or her percentage ownership, but not for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. 

Name and address of beneficial owner Number of    
shares   Approximate
beneficially   percent
owned   of class
Greater than 5% Beneficial Owners:      

Philou Ventures, LLC

P.O. Box 3587 Tustin, CA 92705

 7,872 (2) 0.02%
Ault & Company, Inc. 1,362,795 (3) 2.74%
Directors and Officers: (1)      
Milton Ault, III 1,365,307 (4) 2.74%
William Horne 806 (7) *
Henry Nisser 4,753 (5) 0.01%
Ken Cragun 0   *
Robert Smith 54 (6) *
Mordechai Rosenberg 0   *
Jeffrey A. Bentz 9   *
Jodi Brichan 0   *
Howard Ash 0   *
Glen E. Tellock 0   *
All directors and executive officers as a group (ten persons) 1,370,929   2.75%

*Less than one percent.

(1)Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is c/o Ault Global Holdings, Inc., 11411 Southern Heights Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

(2)Included 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock that are convertible in 2,232 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 2,232 share of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date. Also includes 3,408 shares of common stock.

(3)Includes shares owned by Philou Ventures of which Ault & Company, Inc., is the Manager, warrants to purchase 94 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date. Also includes 1,358,143 shares of common stock.

(4)Mr. Ault is the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. Includes 7,872 shares owned by Philou Ventures and 1,354,923 shares owned by Ault & Company which may be deemed beneficially owned by Mr. Ault. Also includes 469 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant and 2,043 shares of common stock.

(5)Includes 4,753 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant.

(6)Includes warrants to purchase 54 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.

(7)Includes 750 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

Our Audit Committee or in certain instances, a special committee of our board of directors, monitors and reviews issues involving potential conflicts of interest and approves all transactions with related persons as defined in Item 404 of Regulation S-K under the securities laws. Examples of such transactions that must be approved by our Audit Committee or a special committee of our board of directors include, but are not limited to any transaction, arrangement, relationship (including any indebtedness) in which:

the aggregate amount involved is determined to by the Audit Committee to be material;

we are a participant; and

any of the following has or will have a direct or indirect interest in the transaction:

an executive officer, director, or nominee for election as a director;

a greater than five percent beneficial owner of our common stock; or

any immediate family member of the foregoing.

When reviewing transactions with a related person, the Audit Committee or any special committee of our board of directors formed for that purpose applies the standards for evaluating conflicts of interest outlined in our written Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our stockholders or directors. Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Executive Chairman, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc.

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our stockholders or directors. Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc.

Ault & Company, Inc.

On December 23, 2019, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement whereby Ault & Company, Inc. would purchase an aggregate of 660,667 shares of our common stock at a purchase price per share of $1.12, subject to the approval of the NYSE American, for a total purchase price of $739,948. The purchase was authorized by the NYSE American on January 15, 2020. As a result, at the closing on January 15, 2020, Ault & Company became the beneficial owner of 666,945 shares of Common Stock, or up to 19.99% of our common stock then outstanding.

On February 5, 2020, we sold and issued an 8% Convertible Promissory Note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Note”) to Ault & Company, Inc. The principal amount of the Note, plus any accrued and unpaid interest at a rate of 8% per annum, was due and payable on August 5, 2020. The Note is convertible into shares of our common stock, par value $0.001 per share at a conversion price of $1.45 per share. On August 20, 2020, the Company issued 413,793 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $600,000 in principal. On May 12, 2021, the Company issued 275,862 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $400,000 in principal.

Milton C. Ault, III, our Executive Chairman, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. William B. Horne, our Chief Executive Officer, Vice Chairman and Director, is also Chief Financial Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. Henry Nisser, our President, General Counsel and a member of our board of directors, is also the President, General Counsel and a director of Ault & Company, Inc.

Avalanche International Corp.

On September 6, 2017, we entered into a Loan and Security Agreement with Avalanche (as amended, the “AVLP Loan Agreement”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017 pursuant to which we will provide Avalanche a non-revolving credit facility. The AVLP Loan Agreement was recently increased to up to $15,000,000 and extended to December 31, 2023.

 At December 31, 2020, we had provided Avalanche with $11,269,136 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase 22,537,871 shares of Avalanche common stock. Under the terms of the AVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by Avalanche are secured by the assets of Avalanche. As of December 31, 2020, we recorded contractual interest receivable attributed to the AVLP Loan Agreement of $2,025,475 and a provision for loan losses of $3,423,608. The warrants issued in conjunction with the non-revolving credit facility entitles us to purchase up to 22,537,871 shares of Avalanche common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of five years. The exercise price of $0.50 is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis.

Milton C. Ault, III and William Horne, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, respectively, and two of our directors are directors of Avalanche. In addition, Philou Ventures, of which Ault & Company, Inc., is the Manager, is the controlling stockholder of Avalanche. Mr. Ault is the Executive Chairman of Avalanche. Further, our President, General Counsel and one of our directors, is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Avalanche.

PROPOSALS OF STOCKHOLDERS FOR THE 2022 ANNUAL MEETING

If you want to submit a proposal for inclusion in our proxy statement for the 2022 Annual Meeting of stockholders, you may do so by following the procedures in Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act. To be eligible for inclusion, stockholder proposals (other than nominees for directors) must be received at the Company’s principal executive office, at the following address 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141, Attention: Corporate Secretary, no later than ________ __, 2022 (120 days before the anniversary of this year’s mailing date).

A stockholder’s notice to the Secretary must set forth as to each matter the stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting: (i) a description in reasonable detail of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting, (ii) the name and address, as they appear on the Company’s books, of the stockholder proposing such business and of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, (iii) such information regarding each director nominee or each matter of business to be proposed by such stockholder as would be required to be included in a proxy statement filed pursuant to the proxy rules of the U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, had the nominee been nominated, or intended to be nominated, or the matter been proposed, or intended to be proposed by the Board; (iv) if applicable, the consent of each nominee to be named in the proxy statement and to serve as director of the Company if so elected; (v) the class and number of shares of the Company that are owned beneficially and of record by the stockholder proposing such business and by the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, and (vi) any material interest of such stockholder proposing such business and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made in such business.

Stockholder proposals intended to be presented at the 2022 Annual Meeting must be received by the Company no later than reasonable time in advance of the date of the 2022 Annual Meeting, which in the Company’s opinion would be no less than 120 days before that date (pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act) to be eligible for inclusion in the Company’s proxy statement and form of proxy for next year’s meeting. The Company has yet to determine the date of its 2022 Annual Meeting. Proposals should be addressed to Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

For any proposal that is not submitted for inclusion in next year’s proxy statement (as described in the preceding paragraph), but is instead sought to be presented directly at the 2022 Annual Meeting, the federal securities laws require Stockholders to give advance notice of such proposals. The required notice must (pursuant to Rule 14a-4 of the Exchange Act), be given no less than a reasonable time in advance of the date of the 2022 Annual Meeting, which in the Company’s opinion would be no less than 45 days before that date. The Company has yet to determine the date of its 2022 Annual Meeting. Any such notice must be provided to Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141. If a stockholder fails to provide timely notice of a proposal to be presented at the 2022 Annual Meeting, the chairman of the meeting will declare it out of order and disregard any such matter.

OTHER BUSINESS

The Board knows of no business to be brought before the Annual Meeting other than as set forth above. If other matters properly come before the stockholders at the Annual Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named on the proxy to vote the shares represented thereby on such matters in accordance with their judgment.

By Order of the Board of Directors,

 /s/ Milton C. Ault, III
Milton C. Ault, III
Executive Chairman of the Board

June __, 2021

Appendix A

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

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

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2020

Commission file number 1-12711

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware94-1721931
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240,

Las Vegas, NV

89141(949) 444-5464
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each ClassName of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per shareNYSE American

Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Act:     None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes  ¨No  þ

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.  Yes  ¨No  þ

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 year (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  þNo  ¨

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  þNo  ¨

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  þ
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 has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ¨

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

As of June 30, 2020, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $13,335,311 based on the closing sale price as reported on the NYSE American of $2.45. Such determination should not be deemed an admission that the registrant’s directors, officers, or 10% beneficial owners are, in fact, affiliates of the registrant.

There were 49,498,676 shares of common stock outstanding as of April 14, 2021.

Documents incorporated by reference: None

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

FORM 10-K

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

INDEX

Page
PART I
Item 1.Description of Business1
Item 1A.Risk Factors20
Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments47
Item 2.Properties47
Item 3.Legal Proceedings48
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures51
PART II
Item 5.Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities51
Item 6.Selected Financial Data52
Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations53
Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.64
Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.F-1 – F-64
Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure64
Item 9A.Controls and Procedures64
Item 9B.Other Information67
PART III
Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance67
Item 11.Executive Compensation73
Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters78
Item 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence79
Item 14.Principal Accountant Fees and Services80
PART IV
Item 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.82
Item 16.Form 10-K Summary85
Signatures86

NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K (the “Annual Report”) contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. We have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “potential,” “predict,” “should” or “will” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions; uncertainties and other factors may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels or activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Our expectations are as of the date this Annual Report is filed, and we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date this Annual Report is filed to confirm these statements to actual results, unless required by law.

This Annual Report also contains estimates and other statistical data made by independent parties and by us relating to market size and growth and other industry data. This data involves a number of assumptions and limitations, and you are cautioned not to give undue weight to such estimates. We have not independently verified the statistical and other industry data generated by independent parties and contained in this Annual Report and, accordingly, we cannot guarantee their accuracy or completeness, though we do generally believe the data to be reliable. In addition, projections, assumptions and estimates of our future performance and the future performance of the industries in which we operate are necessarily subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of factors, including those described in “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report. These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the estimates made by the independent parties and by us.

RISK FACTOR SUMMARY

Below is a summary of the principal factors that make an investment in our common stock speculative. This summary does not address all of the risks that we face. Additional discussion of the risks summarized in this risk factor summary, and other risks that we face, can be found below under the heading “Risk Factors” and should be carefully considered, together with other information in this Annual Report and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, before making investment decisions regarding our common stock.

·We will need to raise additional capital to fund our operations in furtherance of our business plan.

·We face business disruption and related risks resulting from the outbreak of COVID-19, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations and curtail our ability to raise financing.

·We have an evolving business model, which increases the complexity of our business.

·We received an order and a subpoena from the Commission in the investigation now known as “In the Matter of DPW Holdings, Inc.,” the consequences of which are unknown.

·If we make any additional acquisitions, they may disrupt or have a negative impact on our business.

·Our growth strategy is subject to a significant degree of risk.

·We are heavily dependent on our senior management, and a loss of a member of our senior management team could cause our stock price to suffer.

·If we fail to anticipate and adequately respond to rapid technological changes in our industry, including evolving industry-wide standards, in a timely and cost-effective manner, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

·We depend upon a few major customers for a majority of our revenues, and the loss of any of these customers, or the substantial reduction in the quantity of products that they purchase from us, would significantly reduce our revenues and net income.

·If we do not continue to satisfy the NYSE American continued listing requirements, our common stock could be delisted from NYSE American.

·Our common stock price is volatile.

PART I

ITEM 1.BUSINESS

General

Ault Global Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation formerly known as DPW Holdings (“Ault Global,” the “Company” or “we”), was incorporated in September 2017. The Company is a diversified holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in, among others, the following operating businesses: commercial and defense solutions, commercial lending and advanced textile technology. The Company’s direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries include Gresham Worldwide, Inc. (“GWW”), Coolisys Technologies Corp. (“Coolisys”), Digital Power Corporation, Gresham Power Electronics Ltd. (f/k/a Digital Power Limited) (“Gresham Power”), Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd (“Enertec”), Relec Electronics Ltd., Digital Power Lending, LLC (“DP Lending”), Ault Alliance, Inc. (“Ault Alliance”), and Tansocial LLC (“Tansocial”). The Company also has a controlling interest in Microphase Corporation (“Microphase”) and Ault Alliance has a controlling interest in and Alliance Cloud Services, LLC (“ACS”). Ault Global Holdings was founded by Milton “Todd” Ault III, its Executive Chairman and is led by Mr. Ault, William B. Horne, its Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman and Henry Nisser, its President and General Counsel. Together, they constitute the Executive Committee, which manages the day-to-day operations of the holding company. The Company’s long-term objective is to maximize per share intrinsic value. All major investment and capital allocation decisions are made for the Company by Mr. Ault and the Executive Committee. The Company has three reportable segments:

·GWW – defense solutions with operations conducted by Microphase, Enertec, Gresham Power and Relec,

·Coolisys – commercial electronics solutions with operations conducted by Digital Power Corporation, and

·Ault Alliance – commercial lending through DP Lending, data center operations through ACS, digital marketing through Tansocial and digital learning.

We operate as a holding company with operations conducted primarily through our subsidiaries. We conduct our activities in a manner so as not to be deemed an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”). Generally, this means that we do not invest or intend to invest in securities as our primary business and that no more than 40% of our total assets will be invested in investment securities, as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act. Pursuant to the Investment Company Act, companies such as our subsidiary DP Lending are excluded from the definition of an investment company since its business consists of making small loans and industrial banking. We also maintain a considerable investment in Avalanche International, Corp., which does business as MTIX International.

Originally, we were primarily a solution-driven organization that designed, developed, manufactured and sold high-grade customized and flexible power system solutions for the medical, military, telecom and industrial markets. Although we actively seek growth through acquisitions, we will also continue to focus on high-grade and custom product designs for the commercial, medical and military/defense markets, where customers demand high density, high efficiency and ruggedized products to meet the harshest and/or military mission critical operating conditions.

We have operations located in Europe through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Gresham Power Electronics (f/k/a Digital Power Limited) (“Gresham Power”), located in Salisbury, England. Gresham Power designs, manufactures and sells power products and system solutions mainly for the European marketplace, including power conversion, power distribution equipment, DC/AC (Direct Current/Active Current) inverters and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) products. Our European defense business is specialized in the field of naval power distribution products.

On November 30, 2016, we formed DP Lending, a wholly-owned subsidiary. DP Lending provides commercial loans to companies throughout the United States to provide them with operating capital to finance the growth of their businesses. The loans range in duration from six months to three years, DP Lending loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Financing Law license (Lic.no. 60 DBO77905).

On June 2, 2017, we purchased 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation (“Microphase”). Microphase is a design-to-manufacture original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) industry leader delivering world-class radio frequency (“RF”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“DLVA”) to the military, aerospace and telecommunications industries. Microphase is headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut.

On January 7, 2020, we formed Coolisys Technologies Corp. (“Coolisys”), a wholly-owned subsidiary. Coolisys operates its existing businesses in the customized and flexible power system solutions for the automotive, medical, military, telecom, commercial and industrial markets, other than the European markets, which are primarily served by Gresham Power.

On September 1, 2017, Digital Power Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“DPC”), a subsidiary of Coolisys since January 20, 2020, acquired all of the outstanding membership interests in Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Power-Plus”). Power-Plus is an industrial distributor of value added power supply solutions, UPS systems, fans, filters, line cords, and other power-related components. In addition to its current business, Power-Plus will serve as an extended sales organization for our overall flexible power system solutions.

On December 31, 2017, Coolisys Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“CTI”) entered into a share purchase agreement with Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. (“MICT”), a Delaware corporation, Enertec Management Ltd., an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of MICT (“EML”), and Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“Enertec”), an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of EML, pursuant to which CTI acquired Enertec. Enertec is Israel’s largest private manufacturer of specialized electronic systems for the military market. On May 23, 2018, CTI completed its acquisition of Enertec.

In January 2018, we formed Super Crypto Mining, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, which changed its name to Digital Farms, Inc. (“DFI”) on January 18, 2019. DFI was established to operate our newly formed cryptocurrency business, which is pursuing a variety of digital currency. We used to mine the top three cryptocurrencies for our own account. These cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Litecoin and Ethereum. DFI’s operations were discontinued in the first quarter of 2020. 

On May 23, 2018, DP Lending entered into and closed a securities purchase agreement with I. AM, Inc. (“I. AM”), David J. Krause and Deborah J. Krause. Pursuant to the securities purchase agreement, I. AM sold to DP Lending, 981 shares of common stock for a purchase price of $981, representing, upon the closing, 98.1% of I. AM’s outstanding common stock. I.AM owed DP Lending $1,715,330 in outstanding principal, pursuant to a loan and security agreement, between I. AM and DP Lending. The purchase agreement provides that, as I. AM repays the outstanding loan to DP Lending in accordance with the loan agreement, DP Lending will on a pro rata basis transfer shares of common stock of MPCI. AM to David J. Krause, up to an aggregate of 471 shares. I. AM’s operations were discontinued in the first quarter of 2020. 

Gresham Worldwide, Inc. was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on November 21, 2018 as DPW Technologies Group, Inc. and effected a name change on December 6, 2019.

On November 30, 2020, we acquired Relec, a privately held company based in Wareham, the United Kingdom. The transaction was structured as a stock purchase under which we paid approximately $4,000,000 with additional contingent cash payments up to approximately $665,000 based on Relec’s future financial performance. The acquisition of Relec has enhanced our presence in industrial and transportation markets in the United Kingdom and Europe and considerably broadened our product portfolio, including high-quality power conversion and display product offerings. Relec specializes in AC-DC power supplies, DC-DC converters, displays and EMC filters.

On January 29, 2021, Alliance Cloud Services, LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ault Alliance, closed on the acquisition of a 617,000 square foot energy-efficient facility located on a 34.5 acre site in southern Michigan for a purchase price of $3,991,497. The purchase price was paid by the Company using its own working capital.

We are a Delaware corporation, initially formed in California in 1969 and reincorporated in Delaware in 2017. We are located at 11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141. Our phone number is (949) 444-5464 and our website address is www.aultglobal.com.

Recent Events

On January 19, 2021, the Company changed its name from DPW Holdings, Inc., to Ault Global Holdings, Inc. (the “Name Change”). The Name Change was effected through a parent/subsidiary short form merger pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated January 7, 2021. Neither the merger nor resulting Name Change affected the rights of security holders of the Company. The Company’s common stock continues to be quoted on the NYSE American under the symbol “DPW.” Existing stock certificates that reflect the Company’s prior corporate name will continue to be valid. Certificates reflecting the new corporate name will be issued in due course as old stock certificates are tendered for exchange or transfer to the Company’s transfer agent. Concurrently with the change in our name, Milton C. Ault, III was appointed as our Executive Chairman, William B. Horne was appointed as our Chief Executive Officer and remains as Vice Chairman of our board of directors, and Henry Nisser was appointed as our President and remains as our General Counsel.

Commencing in October of 2019 and continuing through February of 2020, the Company reorganized its corporate structure pursuant to a series of transactions by and among the Company and its directly and indirectly owned subsidiaries. The purpose of the reorganization was to align the Company’s various businesses by the products and services that constitute the majority of each subsidiaries’ revenues. As a result of the foregoing transactions, the Company’s corporate structure is as follows:

 

On December 23, 2019, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement whereby Ault & Company, Inc. would purchase an aggregate of 660,667 shares of Common Stock at a purchase price per share of $1.12, subject to the approval of the NYSE American, for a total purchase price of $739,948. The purchase was authorized by the NYSE American on January 15, 2020. As a result, at the closing on January 15, 2020, Ault & Company became the beneficial owner of 666,945 shares of Common Stock, or up to 19.99% of the Common Stock then outstanding.

On February 5, 2020, we sold and issued an 8% Convertible Promissory Note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Note”) to Ault & Company, Inc. The principal amount of the Note, plus any accrued and unpaid interest at a rate of 8% per annum, shall be due and payable on August 5, 2020. The Note shall be convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”) at a conversion price of $1.45 per share, subject to the approval of the Company’s stockholders at a special meeting thereof, as required by Rule 713(a)(ii) of the NYSE Company Guide, and subsequently, authorization from the NYSE American.

On February 10, 2020, we entered into a Master Exchange Agreement (the “MPC Preferred StockMaster Exchange Agreement”) with Esousa Holdings, LLC (“Esousa” or the “Creditor”) that acquired approximately $4.2 million in principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of certain promissory notes that had been previously issued by us to Dominion Capital, LLC, a Connecticut limited liability company (the “Dominion Note”) and the Canadian Special Opportunity Fund, LP (the “CSOF Note” and with the MPC Common Stock,Dominion Note, the “MPC SharesEsousa Purchased Notes”) from the Stockholders in exchangeseparate transactions. The Creditor also agreed to purchase additional notes up to an additional principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of $3.5 million (the “ExchangeAdditional Notes” and collectively, with the Esousa Purchased Notes, the “Notes”) for. Pursuant to the issuance byExchange Agreement, the Company of: (i)Creditor has the Stockholders’ portion of an aggregate of 2,600,000unilateral right to acquire shares of Common Stock, no par value, of the Company, comprised of 1,842,448 shares of DPW Common Stock and 378,776 shares of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company (collectively, theCompany’s common stock (theExchange Shares”)

Types of Awards

Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options and Nonstatutory Stock Options are granted pursuant to award agreements adopted by our Compensation Committee. Our Compensation Committee determines the exercise price for a stock option, within the terms and conditions of the 2021 Plan; provided, that the exercise price of an Incentive Stock Option cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our Common Stock on the date of grant. Options granted under the 2021 Plan vest at the rate specified by our Compensation Committee.

The Compensation Committee determines the term of stock options granted under the 2021 Plan, up to a maximum of 10 years, except in the case of certain Incentive Stock Options, as described below. The Compensation Committee will also determine the length of period during which an optionee may exercise their options if an optionee’s relationship with us, or any of our affiliates, ceases for any reason; for Incentive Stock Options, this period is limited by applicable law. The Compensation Committee may extend the exercise period in the event that exercise of the option following termination of service is prohibited by applicable securities laws. In no event, however, may an option be exercised beyond the expiration of its term unless the term is extended in accordance with applicable law.

Acceptable consideration for the purchase of Common Stock issued upon the exercise of a stock option will be determined by the Compensation Committee and may include (a) cash or its equivalent, (b) delivering a properly executed notice of exercise of the option to us and a broker, with irrevocable instructions to the broker promptly to deliver to us the amount necessary to pay the exercise price of the option, (c) any other form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the Compensation Committee or (d) any combination of (a), which(b) or (c).

Unless the Compensation Committee provides otherwise, options are generally transferable in accordance with applicable law, provided that any transferee of such options agrees to become bound by the terms of the 2021 Plan. An optionee may also designate a beneficiary who may exercise the option following the optionee’s death.

Incentive or Nonstatutory Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to our employees, and the employees of our parent or subsidiary corporations, if any. The Compensation Committee may grant awards of Incentive or Nonstatutory Stock Options that are fully vested on the date made, to any of our employees, directors or consultants. Option Awards are granted pursuant to award agreements adopted by our Compensation Committee. To the extent required by applicable law, the aggregate fair market value, determined at the time of grant, of shares of Series D Convertible Preferredour Common Stock with respect to Incentive Stock Options that are exercisable for the first time by an optionee during any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. To the extent required by applicable law, no Incentive Stock Option may be granted to any person who, at the time of the grant, owns or is deemed to own stock possessing more than 10% of our total combined voting power or that of any of our affiliates unless (a) the option exercise price is at least 110% of the fair market value of the stock subject to the option on the date of grant and (b) the term of the incentive stock option does not exceed five years from the date of grant.

Stock Appreciation Rights. An SAR is the right to receive stock, cash, or other property equal in value to the difference between the grant price of the SAR and the market price of the Company’s Common Stock on the exercise date. SARs may be granted independently or in tandem with an Option at the time of grant of the related Option. An SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be exercisable only to the extent the underlying Option is exercisable. An SAR confers on the grantee a right to receive an amount with respect to each share of Common Stock subject thereto, upon exercise thereof, equal to the excess of (A) the fair market value of one share of Common Stock on the date of exercise over (B) the grant price of the SAR (which in the case of an SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be equal to the exercise price of the underlying Option, and which in the case of any other SAR shall be such price as the Compensation Committee may determine but in no event shall be less than the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date of grant of such SAR).

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units. Restricted Stock is Common Stock that the Company (the “Series D Preferredgrants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting criteria. A Restricted Stock”) Unit is a right to receive stock or cash equal to the value of a share of stock at the end of a specified period that the Company grants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting criteria. The grant of these awards under the 2021 Plan are subject to shareholder approval, convertible into an aggregatesuch terms, conditions and restrictions as the Compensation Committee determines consistent with the terms of 757,552 sharesthe 2021 Plan.

At the time of Commongrant, the Compensation Committee may place restrictions on Restricted Stock as further described below and (ii)restricted stock units that shall lapse, in whole or in part, only upon the Stockholders’ portionattainment of warrants (the “Exchange Warrants”)Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to purchase an aggregateperiods of 1,000,000 sharesperformance of DPW Common Stock (the “Warrant Shares”). The Exchange Sharesat least one fiscal year, and if the award is granted to a 162(m) Officer, the grant of the award and the Exchange Warrants are at times collectively referred to herein as the “Exchange Securities.” Upon the closingestablishment of the Agreement (the “Closing”),Performance Goals shall be made during the Subject Shares constituted approximately 56.4%period required under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Except to the extent restricted under the award agreement relating to the Restricted Stock, a grantee granted Restricted Stock shall have all of the issuedrights of a stockholder including the right to vote Restricted Stock and outstanding MPC Shares, or 50.7% on a fully diluted basis.the right to receive dividends.

 

The Share Exchange Agreement was consummated on June 2, 2017 (the “SEA Closing Date”). OnUnless otherwise provided in an award agreement, upon the SEA Closing Date, the Company executed andvesting of a Restricted Stock Unit, there shall be delivered to the Stockholders the Exchange Shares and Exchange Warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,000,000 Warrant Shares. Commencing on the SEA Closing Date and for a period of three (3) years thereafter, the Exchange Warrants may be exercised at $1.10 per share or by means of a “cashless exercise,” subject to limitations and adjustments set forth in such warrants. A holdergrantee, within 30 days of the Exchange Warrants shall not be entitled todate on which such award (or any voting rights, dividends or other rights as a stockholder of the Company prior to the exercise thereof.

Certificate of Determination of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock

Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, the Company issued and delivered to the Stockholders 378,776 shares designated as Series D Preferred Stock, no par value per share, none of which had been previously issued. Each share of Series D Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into two shares of Common Stock (“Conversion Ratio”), subject to adjustments. In the event the Company shall be liquidated, dissolved or wound up, the holders of Series D Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of any of the assets of the Company to the holders of the Common Stock, the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, or to the holders of any other junior series of preferred stock, by reason of their ownership thereof and subject to the rights of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and any other class or series of Company stock subsequently issued that ranks senior to the Series D Preferred Stock, an amount per share in cash or equivalent value in securities or other consideration equal to its Stated Value of $0.01 per share. The holders of Series D Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to receive dividends and shall have no voting rights except as otherwise required by law. Upon the shareholders of Common Stock approving the issuance of the Series D Preferred Stock and for purposes of compliance with Rule 712 of the NYSE American, then each share of Series D Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into two shares of Common Stock, for an aggregate of 757,552 shares of Common Stock.

Why the Company Needs Shareholder Approval

Rule 712 of the NYSE American requires shareholder approval of a transaction in which shares are to be issued as sole or partial consideration for an acquisition of the stock or assets of another company under certain circumstances. The Company has been advised by the NYSE American that, in its view, the issuance of the shares of Series D Preferred Stock will require shareholder approval, where the Company needs the affirmative vote of the majority shares of Common Stock present in person or by proxy at the Meeting. In addition, because the Series D Preferred Stock were issued in connection with a “share exchange” to acquire a controlling interest in Microphase, andportion thereof) vests, the number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of restricted stock units becoming so vested.

Other Stock-Based Awards. The 2021 Plan also allows the Compensation Committee to grant “Other Stock-Based Awards,” which means a right or securities convertible intoother interest that may be denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, or related to, Common Stock. Subject to the limitations contained in the 2021 Plan, this includes, without limitation, (i) unrestricted stock awarded as a bonus or upon the attainment of Performance Goals or otherwise as permitted under the 2021 Plan and (ii) a right to acquire stock from the Company containing terms and conditions prescribed by the Compensation Committee. At the time of the grant of Other Stock-Based Awards, the Compensation Committee may place restrictions on the payout or vesting of Other Stock-Based Awards that shall lapse, in whole or in part, only upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year, and if the award is granted to a 162(m) Officer, the grant of the Award and the establishment of the Performance Goals shall be made during the period required under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Other Stock-Based Awards may not be granted with the right to receive dividend equivalent payments.

Performance Awards. Performance awards provide participants with the opportunity to receive shares of our Common Stock, will exceed a threshold level,cash or other property based on performance and other vesting conditions. Performance awards may be granted from time to time as determined at the Company will require the affirmative vote of a majoritydiscretion of the issuedBoard, or the Compensation Committee (as applicable). Subject to the share limit and outstanding shares of Common Stockmaximum dollar value set forth above under “Limits per Participant,” the Board, or the Compensation Committee (as applicable), has the discretion to approve the conversion pursuant to Section 1201(b) of CGCL.


Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

If this Proposal No. 5 is adopted, based on the conversion of Series D Preferred Stock and the exercise of the Exchange Warrants (and provided the Company has sufficient authorized shares of Common Stock to allow for such conversion or exercise), up to a maximum of 1,757,552 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based ondetermine (i) the number of shares of Common Stock outstandingunder, or the dollar value of, a performance award and (ii) the conditions that must be satisfied for grant or for vesting, which typically will be based principally or solely on achievement of performance goals.

Performance Criteria. With respect to awards intended to qualify as performance-based compensation under Code Section 162(m), a committee of “outside directors” (as defined in Code Section 162(m)) with authority delegated by our Board will determine the terms and conditions of such awards, including the performance criteria. The performance goals for restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance awards or other share-based awards shall be based on the attainment of specified levels of one or any combination of the Record Date, such shares would represent 11.3%following:

·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified percentage increase in, revenues, earnings, income before taxes and extraordinary items, net income, operating income, earnings before or after deduction for all or any portion of income tax, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization or a combination of any or all of the foregoing;
·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax profits including, without limitation, that attributable to continuing and/or other operations;
·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, operational cash flow;
·the achievement of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in, all or a portion of, the Company’s bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations of the Company, which may be calculated net of such cash balances and/or other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Compensation Committee;
·earnings per share or the attainment of a specified percentage increase in earnings per share or earnings per share from continuing operations;
·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in return on capital employed or return on invested capital;
·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax return on stockholders’ equity;

·the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, economic value added targets based on a cash flow return on investment formula;
·the attainment of certain target levels in, or specified increases in, the fair market value of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock;
·the growth in the value of an investment in the Company’s Common Stock;
·the attainment of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level in or increase in, all or a portion of controllable expenses or costs or other expenses or costs;
·gross or net sales, revenue and growth of sales revenue (either before or after cost of goods, selling and general administrative expenses, research and development expenses and any other expenses or interest);
·total stockholder return;
·return on assets or net assets;
·return on sales;
·operating profit or net operating profit;
·operating margin;
·gross or net profit margin;
·cost reductions or savings;
·productivity;
·operating efficiency;
·working capital;
·market share;
·customer satisfaction; and
·to the extent that an Award is not intended to comply with Section 162(m) of the Code, other measures of performance selected by the Board.

The performance goals may be based solely by reference to our performance or the performance of one or more of our total outstanding shares (giving effectsubsidiaries, parents, divisions, business segments or business units, or based upon the relative performance of other companies or upon comparisons of any of the indicators of performance relative to such issuance).other companies. The issuanceauthorized committee of outside directors may also exclude under the terms of the performance awards, the impact of an event or occurrence that the committee determines should appropriately be excluded, including (i) restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items, and other unusual or non-recurring charges, or (ii) changes in generally accepted accounting principles or practices.

In connection with the approval of the 2021 Plan, the stockholders also are being asked to approve the above criteria for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code.

New Plan Benefits under the 2021 Plan

Because future awards under the 2021 Plan will be granted in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, the type, number, recipients, and other terms of such shares may result in significant dilution to our shareholders,awards cannot be determined at this time.

U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

The following is a brief description of the material United States federal income tax consequences associated with awards under the 2021 Plan. It is based on existing United States laws and afford them a smaller percentage interestregulations, and there can be no assurance that those laws and regulations will not change in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate bookfuture. Tax consequences in other countries may vary. This information is not intended as tax advice to anyone, including participants in the 2021 Plan.

Stock Options. Neither incentive stock option grants nor non-qualified stock option grants cause any tax consequences to the participant or the Company at the time of grant. Upon the exercise of a non-qualified stock option, the excess of the market value of the shares acquired over their exercise price is ordinary income to the participant and is deductible by the Company. The participant’s tax basis for the shares is the market value thereof at the time of exercise. Any gain or loss realized upon a subsequent disposition of the stock will generally constitute capital gain, in connection with which the Company will not be entitled to a tax deduction.

Upon the exercise of an incentive stock option, the participant will not realize taxable income, but the excess of the fair market value of the stock over the exercise price may give rise to alternative minimum tax. When the stock acquired upon exercise of an incentive stock option is subsequently sold, the participant will recognize income equal to the difference between the sales price and the exercise price of the option. If the sale occurs after the expiration of two years from the grant date and one year from the exercise date, the income will constitute long-term capital gain. If the sale occurs prior to that time, the participant will recognize ordinary income to the extent of the lesser of the gain realized upon the sale or any resalethe difference between the fair market value of the Common acquired stock at the time of exercise and the exercise price; any additional gain will constitute capital gain. The Company will be entitled to a deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant, but no deduction in connection with any capital gain recognized by the participant. If the participant exercises an incentive stock option more than three months after his or her termination of employment due to retirement or other separation other than death or disability, or more than twelve months after his or her termination of employment due to death or permanent disability, he or she is deemed to have exercised a non-qualified stock option.

Stock issued upon conversionAppreciation Rights. A participant granted a stock appreciation right under the 2021 Plan will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time the award is granted. When the participant exercises the stock appreciation right, the amount of Series D Preferred Stockcash and the fair market value of any shares of stock or other consideration received will be ordinary income to the participant and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time. Compensation realized by the participant on the exercise of the Exchange Warrantsstock appreciation right should qualify as performance-based compensation under the Code and thus not be subject to the $1,000,000 deductibility limit of Code Section 162(m).

Restricted Stock. Restricted stock is not taxable to a participant at the time of grant, but instead is included in ordinary income (at its then fair market value) when the restrictions lapse. A participant may elect, however, to recognize income at the time of grant, in which case the fair market value of the restricted shares at the time of grant is included in ordinary income and there is no further income recognition when the restrictions lapse. If a participant makes such an election and thereafter forfeits the restricted shares, he or she will be entitled to no tax deduction, capital loss or other tax benefit. The Company is entitled to a tax deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

A participant’s tax basis for restricted shares will be equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by the participant. The participant will recognize capital gain (or loss) on a sale of the restricted stock if the sale price exceeds (or is lower than) such basis. The holding period for restricted shares for purposes of characterizing gain or loss on the sale of any shares as long- or short-term commences at the time the participant recognizes ordinary income pursuant to an award. The Company is not entitled to a tax deduction corresponding to any capital gain or loss of the participant.

Restricted Stock Units. A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a restricted stock unit award is granted. Upon receipt of shares of stock (or the equivalent value in cash or any combination of cash and the Company Common Stock) in settlement of a restricted stock unit award, a participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock and cash received as of that date (less any amount he or she paid for the stock and cash), and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

Performance Awards. A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a performance award is granted (for example, when the performance goals are established). Upon receipt of stock or cash (or a combination thereof) in settlement of a performance award, the participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock and cash received, and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

Code Section 409A. If an award is subject to Code Section 409A (which relates to nonqualified deferred compensation plans), and if the requirements of Section 409A are not met, the taxable events as described above could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline as well asapply earlier than described, and could result in substantial dilution to other shareholders since the Stockholders may ultimately convertimposition of additional taxes and sellpenalties. All awards that comply with the full amount issuable on conversion. This means that our current shareholders will own a smaller interest in our company and will have less ability to influence significant corporate decisions requiring shareholder approval.

Further Information.

The terms of the Certificate2021 Plan, however, are intended to be exempt from the application of Determination forCode Section 409A or meet the Series D Preferred Stock and the Share Exchange Agreement are complex and only briefly summarized above. For further information, please refer to the descriptions contained in the Company’s Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 3, 2017 and June 8, 2017, and the transaction documents filed as exhibits to such reports. The discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference to such filed transaction documents.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The approvalrequirements of the issuance of shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of the Series D Preferred Stock and warrantsSection 409A in order to complyavoid such early taxation and penalties.

Tax Withholding. The Company has the right to deduct or withhold, or require a participant to remit to the Company, an amount sufficient to satisfy federal, state and local taxes (including employment taxes) required by law to be withheld with Rule 712respect to any exercise, lapse of restriction or other taxable event arising as a result of the NYSE American2021 Plan. The Compensation Committee may, at the time the award is granted or thereafter, require or permit that any such withholding requirement be satisfied, in whole or in part, by delivery of, or withholding from the award, shares having a fair market value on the date of withholding equal to the amount required to be withheld for tax purposes.

Required Vote and Section 1201(b)Board Recommendation

Approval of CGCLthe 2021 Plan requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote FORapproval of the issuance of Common Stock upon the conversion of 378,776 shares of the Company’s Series DPreferred Stock and upon the exercise of warrants to purchase up to 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock, in accordance with the Share Exchange Agreement, dated April 28, 2017, in order comply with Rule 712 of the NYSEAmerican and Section 1201(b) of the CGCL.


PROPOSAL NO. 6

APPROVAL OF THE ISSUANCE OF COMMON STOCK UPON THE CONVERSION OF 10,000 SHARES OF THE COMPANYS SERIES E PREFERRED STOCK, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SHARE EXCHANGE AGREEMENT, DATED APRIL 28, 2017 IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH NYSE AMERICAN RULE 712

Terms of the Transaction

In connection with the Share Exchange Agreement and the issuance to the stockholders of the Series D Preferred Stock discussed under Proposal 5, the Company agreed to cause MPC to issue and deliver a promissory note in the principal face amount of $450,000 (the “CreditorNote”) as well as 10,000 shares designated as Series E Convertible Preferred Stock, no par value per share (the “Series E Preferred Stock”) to an unsecured creditor of MPC (the “Creditor”). The Company has delivered the Creditor Note and a certificate evidencing the Series E Preferred Stock to the Creditor.

Each share of Series E Preferred Stock has a stated value equal to forty-five dollars ($45.00) per share and is deemed Series E Parity Stock. In the event the Company shall be liquidated, dissolved or wound up, the holders of Series E Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of any of the assets of the Company to the holders of the Common Stock, the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, or to the holders of any other junior series of preferred stock, by reason of their ownership thereof and subject to the rights of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and any other class or series of Company stock subsequently issued that ranks senior to the Series E Preferred Stock, an amount per share in cash or equivalent value in securities or other consideration equal to $0.01 per share. The holders of Series E Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to receive dividends and shall have no voting rights except as otherwise required by law. Upon the shareholders of Common Stock approving the issuance of the Series E Preferred Stock and for purposes of compliance with Rule 712 of the NYSE American, then each share of Series E Preferred Stock may be converted into sixty (60) shares of Common Stock, for an aggregate of 600,000 such shares.

Why the Company Needs Shareholder Approval

Rule 712 of the NYSE American requires shareholder approval of a transaction in which shares are to be issued as sole or partial consideration for an acquisition of the stock or assets of another company under certain circumstances. The Company has been advised by the NYSE American that, in its view, the issuance of the shares of Series E Preferred Stock will require shareholder approval.

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

If this Proposal No. 6 is adopted, based on the conversion of Series E Preferred Stock (and provided the Company has sufficient authorized shares of Common Stock to allow for such conversion or exercise), up to 600,000 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent _______% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our shareholders and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued upon conversion of Series E Preferred Stock could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline as well as result in substantial dilution to other shareholders since the Creditor may ultimately convert and sell the full amount issuable on conversion. This means that our current shareholders will own a smaller interest in our company and will have less ability to influence significant corporate decisions requiring shareholder approval.

Further Information.

The terms of the Certificate of Determination for the Series E Preferred Stock are complex and only briefly summarized above. For further information, please refer to the descriptions contained in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 3, 2017, and the transaction documents filed as exhibits to such report. The discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference to such filed transaction documents.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The issuance of the Series E Preferred Stock requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’sCompany's Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends a vote FOR“FOR” the approval of the issuance of 10,000 shares of the Companys Series E Preferred Stock, in accordance with the ShareExchange Agreement, dated April 28, 2017 in order to comply with Rule 712 of the NYSE American.2021 Plan.

 


 

PROPOSAL NO. 75

 

APPROVAL OF THE CONVERSION OF A $400,000 CONVERTIBLE NOTE CONVERTIBLE INTO 727,273 SHARES OF COMMON2021 EMPLOYEE STOCK AND RELATED WARRANTS TO PURCHASE 666,667 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONVERTIBLE NOTE PURCHASE AGREEMENT DATED AUGUST 3, 2017 IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH RULE 713 OF THE NYSE AMERICAN.PLAN

 

TermsOverview

We are asking stockholders to approve the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2021 ESPP”), which the Board has approved subject to the approval of our stockholders.

We strongly believe in improving opportunities for our employees to reap the benefits of increases in our stock’s value. The ability to contribute a portion of earnings to purchase our shares would represent a key benefit for our employees. We believe that such a program improves our ability to attract, retain and incentivize our talent, and ultimately, better aligns the interests of our employees with those of our stockholders. As of March 31, 2021, we anticipate that approximately 150 of our employees will be eligible to participate in the 2021 ESPP.

Summary of the Transaction

On August 3, 2017, we entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement to sell a 12% Convertible (“12% Convertible Note”) and a Warrant to purchase 666,666 shares of Common Stock to an accredited investor. As described further below, the principal of the 12% Convertible Note may be converted into shares of Common Stock at $0.55 per share and under the terms of the Warrant, up to 666,666 shares of Common Stock may be purchased at an exercise price of $0.70 per share.

Description of the 12% Convertible Note2021 ESPP

 

The 12% Convertible Note is in the principal amountfollowing general description of $400,000 and was sold for $360,000, bears interest at 12% simple interest on the principal amount, and is due on August 13, 2018. Interest only payments are due on a quarterly basis and the principal is due on August 3, 2018. The principal may be converted into our shares of Common Stock at $0.55 per share. Subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, the investor may convert the principal amountmaterial features of the 12% Convertible Note at any time into Common Stock. The conversion price of the 12% Convertible Note is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events.

Description of the Warrant

The Warrant entitles the holder to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 666,666 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.70 per share for a period of five years subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations. The Warrant is exercisable six months after the issuance date. The exercise price of the $0.70 Warrant is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The $0.70 Warrant may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis.

Why the Company Needs Shareholder Approval

Rule 713 of the NYSE American requires shareholder approval of a transaction, other than a public offering, involving the sale, issuance or potential issuance by an issuer of Common Stock (or securities convertible into or exercisable for Common Stock) at a price less than the greater of book or market value which together with sales by officers, directors or principal shareholders of the issuer equals 20% or more of presently outstanding Common Stock, or equal to 20% or more of presently outstanding stock for less than the greater of book or market value of the stock, or when the issuance or potential issuance of additional shares will result in a change of control of the issuer. The initial conversion price of 12% Convertible Note was lower and the initial exercise price of the Warrants was greater than the market price of our Common Stock on the execution date of the Securities Purchase Agreement.

Accordingly, investor is prohibited from converting the 12% Convertible Note and exercising the Warrants and receiving shares of our Common Stock unless shareholder approval is obtained for the Securities Purchase Agreement.

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

If this Proposal No. 7 is adopted, based on the conversion of 12% Convertible Note and exercise of Warrants, up to 1,393,940 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent _____% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our shareholders and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued upon conversion of 12% Convertible Note and exercise of Warrants could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline as well as result in substantial dilution to other shareholders since the investor may ultimately convert and sell the full amount issuable on conversion and exercise. This means that our current shareholders will own a smaller interest in our company and will have less ability to influence significant corporate decisions requiring shareholder approval.

Further Information.

The terms of the 12% Convertible Note and Warrants are complex and only briefly summarized above. For further information, please refer to the descriptions contained in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 9, 2017, and the transaction documents filed as exhibits to such report. The discussion herein2021 ESPP is qualified in its entirety by reference to the provisions of the 2021 ESPP set forth in Appendix C.

Purpose and Eligibility. The 2021 ESPP is intended to assist our employees in acquiring share ownership interest in our company, to encourage our employees to remain with us, and to better align their interests with those of our stockholders. The 2021 ESPP is intended to have two components: a component intended to qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) (the “423 Component”) and a component that is not intended to so qualify (the “Non-423 Component”). Except as otherwise provided, the Non-423 Component will be operated and administered in the same manner as the 423 Component, except where prohibited by law.

Our executive officers and all of our other employees who have worked at our company for at least six months will be allowed to participate in the 2021 ESPP, provided that the administrator, in its discretion, may also exclude any or all of the following unless prohibited by applicable law, so long as, for offerings under the 423 Component, any such filed transaction documents.exclusion is applied uniformly to all employees:

 

any employee who is customarily scheduled to work 20 hours or less per week;


any employee whose customary employment is not more than five months in a calendar year;

any employee who is not employed by us prior to the applicable exercise date; and

any employee who is a highly compensated employee (within the meaning of Section 414(q) of the Code) or any highly compensated employee with compensation above a specified level, who is an officer, or who is subject to the disclosure requirements of Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act; or

any employee who is a citizen or resident of a jurisdiction outside the United States if the grant of the option is prohibited under the laws of the jurisdiction governing such employee or compliance with the laws of the jurisdiction would cause the Section 423 Component or any offering or option granted thereunder to violate the requirements of Section 423 of the Code.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, any employee who, after the granting of the option, would possess 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of shares of our company shall not be eligible. In addition, no employee shall be granted an option under the Section 423 Component which permits the employee to purchase shares under all of our “employee stock purchase plans” that would accrue at a rate which exceeds $25,000 of fair market value of our stock (determined at the time such option is granted) for each calendar year in which such option is outstanding at any time.

Administration. The 2021 ESPP will be administered by the Compensation Committee or its delegates, subject to applicable laws. The administrator will have full and exclusive authority to interpret the terms of the 2021 ESPP and determine eligibility, subject to the conditions of the 2021 ESPP, as described below.

Share Reserve. The maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued pursuant to the 2021 ESPP will be equal to 980,000 shares. In addition, on each January 1 beginning on January 1, 2022 and ending on January 1, 2031, the aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance under the 2021 ESPP will be increased automatically by the number of shares equal to 1% of the total number of all classes of our outstanding shares of common stock on the immediately preceding December 31; except that the administrator may in its sole discretion reduce the amount of the increase in any particular year.

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Contributions and Purchases. The 2021 ESPP will permit participants to purchase common stock through contributions (in the form of payroll deductions or otherwise to the extent permitted by the administrator) of up to 15% of their eligible compensation, which includes a participant’s regular and recurring straight time gross earnings or base salary, commissions and payments for overtime and shift premiums, but excludes bonuses, equity compensation and other similar compensation. Subject to the eligibility requirements discussed above, a participant may purchase a maximum of 1,000 shares of common stock during each six-month offering period. The 2021 ESPP initially will have purchase periods of approximately 6 months in duration commencing with the first trading day after one exercise date and ending with the next exercise date, as determined by the administrator. The offering periods will start on such trading days as determined by the administrator prior to each such offering period. The administrator may, in its discretion, modify the terms of future purchase periods and offering periods, provided that no offering period may be longer than 27 months.

Amounts contributed and accumulated by the participant during any offering period will be used to purchase shares of our common stock at the end of each six-month purchase period. The purchase price of the shares will be 85% of the lower of the fair market value

of our common stock on the first trading day of the offering period or on the last trading day of the offering period.

Withdrawal and Termination of Participation. A participant may withdraw from the 2021 ESPP voluntarily at any time by filing a notice of withdrawal prior to the close of business on the date established by the administrator. A participant will be deemed to have elected to withdraw from the plan upon the termination of the participant’s employment for any reason or in the event the participant is no longer eligible to participate in the 2021 ESPP.

Restriction on Transfers. A participant may not transfer rights granted under the 2021 ESPP other than by will, the laws of descent and distribution or as otherwise provided under the 2021 ESPP.

Adjustments. In the event of certain changes in our capitalization, to prevent dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits available under the 2021 ESPP, the administrator will make adjustments, as it may deem equitable, to the number and class of shares that may be delivered, the applicable purchase price for shares, and/or the numerical share limits, pursuant to the 2021 ESPP.

Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of our proposed liquidation or dissolution, any offering period then in progress will be shortened by setting a new exercise date, and will terminate immediately prior to such liquidation or dissolution unless otherwise determined by the administrator. The administrator will notify participants of the new exercise date in writing or electronically, at which time any participant’s purchase rights will be automatically exercised, unless the participant has earlier withdrawn from the offering period.

Certain Transactions. In the event of a merger, consolidation or similar transaction, an acquiring or successor corporation may assume or substitute each outstanding option. If the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the outstanding option, the offering period then in progress will be shortened by setting a new exercise date. The administrator will notify each participant in writing or electronically that the exercise date has been changed and that the participant’s option will be exercised automatically on the new exercise date, unless the participant has already withdrawn from the offering period. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, the 2021 ESPP will be automatically terminated following a change in control (as defined in the 2021 Plan).

Summary of Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

Section 423 Component. The following summary is intended only as a general guide to the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of participation in the 2021 ESPP under the 423 Component. The summary is based on existing U.S. laws and regulations, and there can be no assurance that those laws and regulations will not change in the future. The summary does not purport to be complete and does not discuss the tax consequences upon a participant’s death, or the provisions of the income tax laws of any municipality, state or foreign country in which the participant may reside. As a result, tax consequences for any particular participant may vary based on individual circumstances.

The rights of participants to make purchases under the 2021 ESPP are intended to qualify under the provisions of Section 423 of the Code. Assuming such qualification, no income will be taxable to a participant until the sale or other disposition of shares purchased under the 2021 ESPP. Upon such sale or disposition, the participant will generally be subject to tax in an amount that depends upon the holding period of such shares prior to disposing of them.

If the shares are sold or disposed of more than two years from the first day of the offering period during which the shares were purchased and more than one year from the date of purchase, or if the participant dies while holding the shares, the participant (or his or her estate) will recognize ordinary income generally measured as the lesser of (i) the excess of the fair market value of the shares at the time such sale or disposition over the purchase price of such shares or (ii) an amount equal to 15% of the fair market value of the shares on the first day of the offering period. Any additional gain will be treated as long-term capital gain. If the shares are held for at least the holding periods described above but are sold for a price that is less than the purchase price, there will be no ordinary income and the difference will be a long-term capital loss. We will not be entitled to an income tax deduction with respect to the grant or exercise of a right to purchase our shares, or the sale of such shares by a participant, where such participant holds such shares for at least the holding periods described above.

Any sale or other disposition of shares before the expiration of the holding periods described above will be a “disqualifying disposition,” and the participant will recognize ordinary income generally measured as the excess of the fair market value of the shares on the date the shares are purchased over the purchase price, and we will be entitled to an income tax deduction for such ordinary income. Any additional gain or loss on such sale or disposition will be a long-term or short-term capital gain or loss, depending on the holding period following the date the shares were purchased by the participant prior to such sale or disposition, and we will not be entitled to an income tax deduction for any such capital gain.

Non-423 Component. The following summary is intended only as a general guide to the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of participation in the 2021 ESPP under the Non-423 Component. Rights granted under the Non- 423 Component are not intended to qualify for favorable U.S. federal income tax treatment associated with rights granted under an “employee stock purchase plan” that qualifies under provisions of Section 423 of the Code. Under this component, a participant will have compensation income equal to the value of the shares at the time of purchase, less the purchase price. When a participant sells shares purchased under the ESPP, he or she also will have a capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the sales proceeds and the value of shares at the time of purchase. Any capital gain or loss will be short-term or long-term, depending on how long the shares have been held.

Any compensation income that a participant receives upon sale of shares that he or she purchased under the Non-423 Component is subject to withholding for income, Medicare and social security taxes, as applicable.

New Plan Benefits. Participation in the ESPP is voluntary and each eligible employee will make his or her own decision whether and to what extent to participate in the ESPP. It is therefore not possible to determine the benefits or amounts that will be received in the future by individual employees or groups of employees under the ESPP.

Other Information. The administrator may at any time amend, suspend or terminate the 2021 ESPP, provided that, subject to certain exceptions described in the 2021 ESPP, no such action may adversely affect any outstanding rights to purchase stock. The 2021 ESPP will continue in effect unless earlier terminated by the administrator.

 

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

The conversionApproval of 12% Convertible Note and exercise of Warrantsthe 2021 ESPP requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of the Company’sCompany's Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval issuance of Common Stock upon of the conversion of a $400,000 12% Convertible Note convertible into 727,273 shares of Common Stock and Warrants to purchase 666,667 shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Securities Purchase Agreement dated August 3, 2017 in order to comply with Rule 713 of the NYSE American.2021 ESPP.

 

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PROPOSAL NO. 86

 

APPROVALAPPROVAL OF THE CONVERSION OF $880,000 OF CONVERTIBLE NOTES INTO AN AGGREGATE OF 1,466,667 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK AT $0.60 PER SHARE2020 EQUITY ISSUANCES TO DIRECTORS AND RELATED EXERCISE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE 1,466,667 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK AT $0.66 PER SHARE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONVERTIBLE NOTE PURCHASE AGREEMENT DATED AUGUST 10, 2017, IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH RULE 713 OF THE NYSE AMERICAN;EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

 

Terms of the TransactionIssuances

 

On August 10, 2017, we entered into Securities Purchase Agreements with five institutional investors to sell for an aggregate purchase price of $800,000, 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Notes (“10% Convertible Notes”) with an aggregate principal face amount of $880,000 and WarrantsSeptember 27, 2020, each independent director received options to purchase an aggregate of 1,466,66750,000 shares of Common Stock. The principal of the 10% Convertible Notes and interest earned thereon may be converted into shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share and under the terms of the Warrant, up to 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock may be purchased at an exercise price of $0.66 per share.

Description of the 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Notes

The 10% Convertible Notes are in the aggregate principal amount of $880,000 and were sold for $800,000 and bear simple interest at 10% on the principal amount, and principal and interest are due on February 10, 2018. Subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, each investor may convert their respective principal amount of the 10% Convertible Note and accrued interest earned thereon at any time into shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share. The conversion price of the 10% Convertible Notes is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events.

The 10% Convertible Notes contain standard and customary events of default including, but not limited to, failure to make payments when due under the 10% Convertible Note, failure to comply with certain covenants contained in the 10% Convertible Note, or bankruptcy or insolvency of the Company. In the event of default, the Company may be required to pay the investors the principal amount due plus accrued interest earned thereon times 125%, plus any other expenses.

Upon notice and other conditions, we may at any time prior to conversion prepay the outstanding principal balance of the 10% Convertible Notes and accrued interest earn thereon by paying the following multiples of the outstanding principal balance and accrued interest earn thereon depending on the prepayment date (i) within 30 days - 105%; (ii) 31 to 60 days - 110%; 61 to 120 days - 115%; and 120 days to maturity - 120%. In addition, the investors may, at their option, require us to repay all or a portion of the 10% Convertible Notes and interest earned thereon in the event we issue, or in a series within 6 months issues, debt or equity in the aggregate amount of $2 million or more.

In addition, while any principal amount, interest or fees or expenses due under the 10% Convertible Notes remain outstanding and unpaid, we shall not enter into any public or private offering of its securities (including securities convertible into shares of Common Stock) with any other investor that has the effect of establishing rights or otherwise benefiting such other investor in a manner more favorable in any material respect to such other investor than the rights and benefits established in favor of the investor unless, in any such case, the investor has been provided with the same rights and benefits. Further, until the earlier of the 10% Convertible Notes repayment or conversion, we shall not enter into a variable rate transaction.

Description of Warrants

The Warrants entitles the holders to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.66$1.79 per share for a periodterm of five years subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations.ten (10) years. The Warrant is exercisable six months afteroptions shall vest in monthly 1/12th increments over one (1) year beginning on the issuancegrant date. The exercise price of $0.66these options is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The Warrant may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis.

Why the Company Needs Shareholder Approval

Rule 713approval of stockholders and the NYSE American requires shareholder approval of a transaction, other than a public offering, involving the sale, issuance or potential issuance by an issuer of Common Stock (or securities convertible into or exercisable for Common Stock) at a price less than the greater of book or market value which together with sales by officers, directors or principal shareholders of the issuer equals 20% or more of presently outstanding Common Stock, or equal to 20% or more of presently outstanding stock for less than the greater of book or market value of the stock, or when the issuance or potential issuance of additional shares will result in a change of control of the issuer. The initial conversion price of 10% Convertible Note was lower and the initial exercise price of the Warrants was greater than the market price of our Common Stock on the execution date of the Securities Purchase Agreement.


Accordingly, the investors are prohibited from converting the 10% Convertible Notes and exercising the Warrants and receiving shares of our Common Stock unless shareholder approval is obtained for the issuance under the Securities Purchase Agreement.

Effect of Proposal on Current Shareholders

If this Proposal No. 8 is adopted, based on the conversion of 10% Convertible Note and exercise of Warrants, up to 2,933,334 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent _____% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our shareholders and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued upon conversion of 10% Convertible Note and exercise of Warrants could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline as well as result in substantial dilution to other shareholders since the investor may ultimately convert and sell the full amount issuable on conversion and exercise. This means that our current shareholders will own a smaller interest in our company and will have less ability to influence significant corporate decisions requiring shareholder approval.

Further Information.

The terms of the 10% Convertible Notes and Warrants are complex and only briefly summarized above. For further information, please refer to the descriptions contained in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 11, 2017, and the transaction documents filed as exhibits to such report. The discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference to such filed transaction documents.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The conversion of 10% Convertible Note and exercise of Warrants requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval issuance of Common Stock upon of the conversion of the 10% Convertible Note convertible into 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock and Warrants to purchase 1,466,667 shares of Common Stock in accordance with the Securities Purchase Agreement dated August 10, 2017 in order to comply with Rule 713 of the NYSE American.


PROPOSAL NO. 9

APPROVAL OF ISSUANCE OF WARRANTS TO PURCHASE 317,460 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK AT AN EXERCISE PRICE OF $0.01 PER SHARE AND OPTIONS TO PURCHASE 1,000,000 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK AT AN EXERCISE PRICE OF $0.65 PER SHARE, ANDISSUANCE OF SHARES OF COMMON STOCK ISSUABLE UPON EXERCISE OF SUCH WARRANTS AND OPTIONS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEEXECUTIVE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT, DATED NOVEMBER 30, 2016, AS SUBSEQUENTLY AMENDED ON FEBRUARY 22, 2017 IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH NYSE AMERICAN RULE 711

Terms of the Transaction

 

On November 30, 2016, as amended on February 22, 2017, the Company entered into an employment agreement with Amos Kohn to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer with an effective date of September 22, 2016. For his services, Mr. Kohn will be paid a salary of $300,000 per annum increasing to $350,000 per annum provided that the Company achieves revenues in the aggregate amount of at least $10,000,000 as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP for the trailing four calendar quarters.

In addition, Mr. Kohn shall be eligible for an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee after conferring with Mr. Kohn. The target amount of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus shall be 25% to 50% of his then annual base salary but may be greater upon mutual agreement between Mr. Kohn and the compensation committee.

Further, Mr. Kohn is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (i) ten-year warrants to purchase 317,460 shares of the Company's Common Stock (the Warrant Grant”) at an exercise price of $0.01 per share subject to vesting quarterly over two years effective January 1, 2017; and (ii) ten-year27, 2020, each non-independent director received options to purchase 1,000,000200,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.65$1.79 per share.share for a term of ten (10) years. The optionoptions shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on the grant date. The exercise of these options is subject to purchase 1,000,000approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On November 2, 2020, the Board determined to grant, subject to stockholder approval, to each independent director, 100,000 shares of Common Stock isStock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in two equal installments on each of the Meeting Date and November 15, 2021.

On November 2, 2020, the Board determined to grant, subject to the following vesting schedule: (1) optionsstockholder approval, to purchase 500,000each non-independent director, 200,000 shares of Common StockStock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest upon the effective date; (2) options to purchase 250,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over six months beginning with the first month after the effective date; and (3) options to purchase 250,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date. As partin three equal installments on each of the grant of the options to purchase 1,000,000 shares, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 535,000 shares of Common Stock previously granted to him under the Company’s Incentive Share Option Plans.

In the event that Mr. Kohn is terminated by the Company without cause, or if Mr. Kohn resigns for good reason, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to (i) all annual salary earned prior to the termination date, any earned but unpaid portion of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus for the year preceding in which such termination occurredMeeting Date, November 15, 2021 and any earned but unpaid paid time off; (ii) an amount equal to 100% of Mr. Kohn’s then in effect annual base salary plus an additional 1/12th of Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary for each year of employment with the Company prior to such termination; (iii) an amount equal to the average of Mr. Kohn’s two prior years’ annual bonuses (with such average not to exceed 50% of the Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary in effect at the time of termination) prorated for the portion of the year that executive was employed; (iv) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and held by Mr. Kohn through the termination date and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn’s restricted stock shall cease; and (v) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at Company expense for a period of not less than 18 months.

If Mr. Kohn is terminated without cause, or resigns for good reason within 12 months of a change of control, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to receive: (i) payment in a lump sum of Mr. Kohn annual base salary for 24 months and any accrued, unused paid time-off; (ii) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn restricted stock shall cease; and (iii) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at the Company’s expense for a period of not less than 18 months.May 15, 2022.

 

Why the Company Needs ShareholderStockholder Approval

 

Rule 711 of the NYSE American requires shareholderstockholder approval with respect to the establishment of (or material amendment to) a stock option or purchase plan or other equity compensation arrangement pursuant to which options or stock may be acquired by officers, directors, employees, or consultants.


 

Effect of Proposal on Current ShareholdersStockholders

 

If this Proposal No. 9No. 6 is adopted, based on the issuance of shares pursuant to the Executive Employment Agreement (and provided the Company has sufficient authorized shares of Common Stock to allow for such exercise), a maximum of 1,317,4601,950,000 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent _______%3.8% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our shareholders,stockholders, and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued pursuant to the Executive Employment Agreement could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline.

 

Further Information.Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

The termsgrant of options and other equity set forth in this Proposal No. 6 to the directors of the Executive Employment Agreement are complex and only briefly summarized above. For further information, please refer to the descriptions contained in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 5, 2016, and on ___, 2017 and the transaction documents filed as exhibits to such report. The discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference to such filed transaction documents.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

Approval of the Executive Employment AgreementCompany requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends a vote FOR“FOR” the approval of 2020 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the issuance of warrants to purchase 317,460 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share and options to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.65 per share, and shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such warrants, in accordance with the Executive Employment Agreement, dated November 30, 2016, as subsequently amended on February 22, 2017Company, in order to comply with Rule 711 of the NYSE American.

 

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PROPOSAL NO. 107

 

APPROVAL OF THE 2017 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN2021 EQUITY ISSUANCES TO DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

 

OverviewTerms of the Issuances

 

On September 18, 2017,April 26, 2021, each independent director received options to purchase 150,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.55 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on January 1, 2022. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On April 26, 2021, each non-independent director received options to purchase 400,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.55 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on January 1, 2022. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On January 8, 2021, each independent director received a grant, subject to stockholder approval, of 50,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in four installments on each of May 15, 2022, November 15, 2022, May 1, 2023 and November 15, 2023.

On January 8, 2021, each non-independent director received a grant, subject to stockholder approval, of 400,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in four installments on each of November 15, 2022, May 1, 2023, November 15, 2023 and May 15, 2024.

On May 21, 2021, Glen Tellock was appointed to the Board effective June 4, 2021. In connection therewith, the Board determined to issue Mr. Tellock options to purchase 200,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.46 per share. The options shall vest semiannually in six (6) increments over three (3) years beginning on November 21, 2021. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

Further, on May 21, 2021, Mr. Tellock was granted, subject to approval by the stockholders and the NYSE American, 150,000 shares of Common Stock, which shall vest in semi-annual 1/6th increments over three (3) years beginning on November 15, 2021.

Why the Company Needs Stockholder Approval

Rule 711 of the NYSE American requires stockholder approval with respect to the establishment of (or material amendment to) a stock option or purchase plan or other equity compensation arrangement pursuant to which options or stock may be acquired by officers, directors, employees, or consultants.

Effect of Proposal on Current Stockholders

If this Proposal No. 7 is adopted, uponprovided the recommendationCompany has sufficient authorized shares of Common Stock, a maximum of 3,750,000 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent 7.0% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our stockholders, and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The grant of options and other equity set forth in this Proposal No. 7 to the directors of the Company requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of 2021 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company, in order to comply with Rule 711 of the NYSE American.

29

INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Executive Officers

The executive officers are elected by our Board and hold office until their successors are elected and duly qualified. There are no family relationships between any of our directors or executive officers. The current executive officers of the Company are as follows:

NameAgeOffices Held
Milton C. Ault, III51Executive Chairman of the Board
William B. Horne52Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman
Henry Nisser52President, General Counsel and Director
Kenneth Cragun59Chief Financial Officer

Biographical information about Mr. Ault is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Biographical information about Mr. Horne is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Biographical information about Mr. Nisser is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Kenneth S. Cragun

Mr. Cragun was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company on August 19, 2020. Mr. Cragun had served as the Company’s Chief Accounting Officer since October 1, 2018. Mr. Cragun has been the Chief Financial Officer of Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a development stage entity seeking to prevent, treat and cure Alzheimer’s Disease, since October of 2018. He served as a CFO Partner at Hardesty, LLC, a national executive services firm since October 2016. His assignments at Hardesty included serving as CFO of CorVel Corporation, a $1.1 billion market cap publicly traded company (NASDAQ: CRVL) and a nationwide leader in technology driven, healthcare-related, risk management programs and of RISA Tech, Inc. a private structural design and optimization software company. Mr. Cragun was also CFO of two NASDAQ-listed companies, Local Corporation, from April 2009 to September 2016, which operated Local.com, a U.S. top 100 website, and Modtech Holdings, Inc., from June 2006 to March 2009, a supplier of modular buildings. Prior thereto, he had financial leadership roles with increasing responsibilities at MIVA, Inc., ImproveNet, Inc., NetCharge Inc., C-Cube Microsystems, Inc, and 3-Com Corporation. Mr. Cragun serves on the Board of Directors and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Verb Technology Company, Inc. (NASDAQ: VERB). Mr. Cragun began his professional career at Deloitte. Mr. Cragun holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Colorado State University-Pueblo. Mr. Cragun’s industry experience is vast, with extensive experience in fast-growth environments and building teams in more than 20 countries. Mr. Cragun has led multiple financing transactions, including IPOs, PIPEs, convertible debt, term loans and lines of credit.

Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

Except as disclosed below or under Proposal No. 1, to our knowledge, none of our current executive officers has, during the past ten years:

been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);

had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against the business or property of the person, or of any partnership, corporation or business association of which he or she was a general partner or executive officer, either at the time of the bankruptcy filing or within two years prior to that time;

been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction or federal or state authority, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting, his or her involvement in any type of business, securities, futures, commodities, investment, banking, savings and loan, or insurance activities, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity;

been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated;

been the subject of, or a party to, any federal or state judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated (not including any settlement of a civil proceeding among private litigants), relating to an alleged violation of any federal or state securities or commodities law or regulation, any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order, or any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity; or

been the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.

* Mr. Cragun served as Chief Financial Officer of Local Corporation (April 2009 to September 2016), formerly based in Irvine, California, and, in June 2015, Local Corporation filed a voluntary petition in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California seeking relief under the provisions of Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Summary Compensation Table

The following Summary Compensation Table sets forth all compensation earned in all capacities during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, by our then Chief Executive Officer. Because we are a Smaller Reporting Company, we only have to report information of our Chief Executive Officer and our two other most highly compensated executive officers.

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE 
Name and principal positionYearSalary ($)Bonus ($)Stock Awards ($) (1)Option
Awards ($) (1)
All Other Compensation ($)(2)Total ($) 
 
Milton C. Ault, III2020400,000200,0000030,202630,202 
Executive Chairman of the Board2019400,00000018,832418,832 
William B. Horne2020300,000150,0000045,164495,164 
Chief Executive Officer2019300,00010,0000017,856327,856 
Henry C. Nisser2020225,000100,0000011,825336,825 
President and General Counsel (3)2019133,33350,000005,807189,140 

(1)The values reported in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns represent the aggregate grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 718 Share Based Payments, of grants of stock options and stock awards to our named executive officer in the years shown.
(2)The amounts in “All Other Compensation” consist of health insurance benefits, vehicle allowance, long-term and short-term disability insurance benefits, and 401K matching amounts.
(3)Mr. Nisser was appointed as our General Counsel and Executive Vice President on May 1, 2019. Effective October 1, 2020, Mr. Nisser’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum. Mr. Nisser was appointed as our President in January of 2021.

Employment Agreement with Milton C. Ault, III

On June 17, 2018, the Company entered into a ten year executive employment agreement with Milton C. Ault, III, to serve as Chief Executive Officer of the Company.  For his services, Mr. Ault will be paid a base salary of $400,000 per annum (the “Base Salary”).

Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the agreement, if the Company meets or exceeds criteria adopted by the Company’s compensation committee (the “Compensation Committee”) for earning bonuses which shall be adopted by the Compensation Committee annually, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive an annual bonus, which percentage shall be based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Compensation Committee.

Further, Mr. Ault is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 1,250 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning on January 1, 2020, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”)  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Ault, which consent may be withheld in his discretion.

In addition, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive a performance-based award (the “CEO Performance Award”), provided that the Company, for any given fiscal year during the term of this agreement, meets the following criteria: (A) an increase in revenue, as calculated under GAAP over the previous fiscal year as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year; provided that any increase less than thirty-five percent (35%) (the “Revenue Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; (B) positive net income, as calculated under GAAP, as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year, provided that any increase less than five percent (5%) (the “Net Income Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; and (C) positive net cash flow from operations on a year-to-year basis, where cash flow is defined as the net amount of cash and cash-equivalents being transferred into and out of the Company. The CEO Performance Award shall consist of a number of shares of the Company’s common stock having a maximum value equal to ten percent (10%) of any appreciation in the Company’s Market Capitalization above the High Water Mark (as such terms are defined in the agreement) as measured by the daily average closing bid price of the Company’s common stock for the applicable fiscal year subject to proration obtained by the product of Revenue Percentage and the Net Income Percentage. If the CEO Performance Award in a fiscal year is less than ten percent (10%) due to a reduction caused by an annual shortfall in either the Revenue Percentage or the Net Income Percentage, the prior year’s targets would be deemed to have been achieved if a corresponding overage in a subsequent fiscal year results in the achievement of the cumulative targets.  The annual and cumulative targets for revenue and net income, which are provided solely for the purpose of establishing cumulative totals, are set forth in the agreement.

Upon termination of Mr. Ault’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Ault shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Ault’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Ault’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Ault a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four (4) weeks of base salary for each full year of service and credit for his service commencing from September 22, 2016, (B) should Mr. Ault provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, but in no event an amount greater than the Base Salary payable should either such period expire within two years, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Ault is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Ault would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Ault will be paid an amount equal to the greater of: (i) five times his then current Base Salary or (ii) the Separation Payment amount set forth above, without regard to whether Mr. Ault continues in the employ of the Company or its successor.

Employment Agreement with William B. Horne

On January 25, 2018, we entered into a five-year employment agreement with William Horne to serve as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the Company and its subsidiaries.  For his services, Mr. Horne will be paid a base salary of $250,000 per annum. Upon signing of the employment agreement, Mr. Horne is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $25,000.  In addition, Mr. Horne shall be eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee. Effective January 1, 2019, Mr. Horne’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum.

Further, Mr. Horne is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 1,250 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest in installments of two hundred fifty (250) shares annually over five (5) years beginning on January 1, 2019, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the SEC  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Horne, which consent may be withheld in his discretion.

Upon termination of Mr. Horne’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Horne shall be entitled to receive: (i) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (ii) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Horne’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Horne’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Horne a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (B) should Mr. Horne provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Horne is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Horne would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Horne will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment.

Employment Agreement with Henry Nisser

On April 12, 2019, the Company entered into a four-year employment agreement (the “Agreement”) with Henry Nisser to serve as General Counsel and Executive Vice President of the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries. The effective date of the Agreement is May 1, 2019. Pursuant to the Agreement, Mr. Nisser will be paid a base salary of $200,000 per annum (the “Base Salary”). Effective October 1, 2020, Mr. Nisser’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum.

Upon the effective date of the Agreement, Mr. Nisser is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $50,000, with $25,000 being payable upon the effective date and $25,000 being payable no later than September 1, 2019. In addition, Mr. Nisser shall be eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee, which bonus shall not exceed 300% of the Base Salary.

Further, Mr. Nisser is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (A) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 6,250 (taking 1 for 40 reverse split into account) shares of common stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning with the first month after the effective date, and (B) an option to purchase 200,000 shares of common stock at a per share exercise price equal to the closing market price on the effective date, which option shall have a term of seven (7) years. These options have been cancelled.

Mr. Nisser’s bonuses, if any, and all stock based compensation shall be subject to “Company Clawback Rights” if during the period that Mr. Nisser is employed by the Company and upon the termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment and for a period of two years thereafter, there is a restatement of any of the Company’s financial results from which any bonuses and stock based compensation to Mr. Nisser shall have been determined.

Upon termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Nisser shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Nisser’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Nisser’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Nisser a “Separation Payment” as follows: (a) an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (b) commencing on the date that shall be one (1) year from the effective date, should Mr. Nisser provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement within 30 days of termination, then the Company shall pay to Mr. Nisser the Base Salary (in effect immediately prior to the termination date) an amount equal to the lesser of what Mr. Nisser would have received if the employment period ended after (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 18-month period commencing on the date Executive is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the separation period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Nisser would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months. Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Nisser will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment.

Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation

At the annual meeting of stockholders on July 2, 2019, the stockholders approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers. In addition, stockholders voted, on an advisory basis, that an advisory vote on executive compensation should be held every three years.

 Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

The following table provides information on outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 2020 to the Named Executive Officers.

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2020
OPTION AWARDS
Name

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
Equity Incentive Plan
Awards: Number of
Securities Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned Options (#)
Option
Exercise
Price ($)
Option
Expiration
Date
Milton C. Ault III
William B. Horne
 Henry Nisser

Director Compensation

Beginning July 1, 2019, the Company pays each independent director an annual base amount of $35,000 annually, other than Mr. Smith, who receives a base amount of $45,000 annually due to additional services provided by Mr. Smith as a lead independent director and Mr. Ash, who receives a base amount of $45,000 annually due to additional services provided by Mr. Ash as Audit Committee Chairman. Additionally, our Board makes recommendations for adjustments to an independent director’s compensation when the level of services provided are significantly above what was anticipated.

The table below sets forth, for each non-employee director, the total amount of compensation related to his or her service during the year ended December 31, 2020:

  Fees earned orStockOptionAll other 
Name paid in cash ($)awards ($)awards ($)compensation ($)Total ($)
Robert O. Smith  70,00070,000
Jeffrey A. Bentz 60,00060,000
Mordechai Rosenberg 60,00060,000
Jodi Brichan 55,00055,000
Howard Ash (1) 38,75038,750

(1)       Mr. Ash was appointed as an independent director on August 13, 2020 and earned compensation from that date.

 On December 28, 2018, the stockholders approved the 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (as amended on May 5, 2019), which amendment was approved by the stockholders on July 19, 2019, the “2018 Stock Incentive Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 12,500, as increased to 175,000 pursuant to the foregoing amendment thereto, shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants. The 2018 Stock Incentive Plan is in addition to the Company’s (i) 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”), subjectunder which options to acquire up to 2,500 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and effective upon shareholder approval atconsultants, (ii) 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 5,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Annual Meeting. We are asking our shareholdersCompany's directors, officers, employees and consultants, and (ii) 2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “2012 Plan”), which provides for the issuance of a maximum of 1,716 shares of the Company’s common stock to approvebe offered to the 2017 Plan in orderCompany’s directors, officers, employees, and consultants (collectively the “Plans”).

 The purpose of the Plans is to permitadvance the interests of the Company by providing to key employees of the Company and its affiliates, who have substantial responsibility for the direction and management of the Company, as well as certain directors and consultants of the Company, additional incentives to exert their best efforts on behalf of the Company, to use the 2017 Plan to achieve the Company's performance, recruiting, retention and incentive goals.

The 2017 Plan includes a variety of forms of awards, including stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units and dividend equivalents to allow the Company to adapt its incentive program to meet the needs of the Companyincrease their proprietary interest in the changing business environment in which the Company operates.

We strongly believe that the approval of the 2017 Plan is essential to our continued success. We believe that equity is an important and significant component of our employees’ compensation. The Board further believes that equity incentives motivate high levels of performance, align the interests of our employees and shareholders by giving directors, employees and consultants the perspective of an owner with an equity stake in the Company, and provide an effective means of recognizing their contributions to the success of the Company. The BoardCompany, to reward outstanding performance and management believe that theto provide a means to attract and retain persons of outstanding ability to grant equity incentives will be importantthe service of the Company.

 As of December 31, 2020, options to purchase 925 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding, and 6,693 shares are available for future issuance under the Plans.

401(k) Plan

Our subsidiaries, Coolisys and Microphase, have adopted tax-qualified employee savings and retirement plan, or 401(k) plan, which generally covers all of their full-time employees. Pursuant to the future success401(k) plan, eligible employees may make voluntary contributions to the plan up to a maximum of pursuant to the current Internal Revenue Code limits. The Microphase 401(k) plan permits, but does not require, matching contributions by them on behalf of plan participants. The Coolisys 401(k) plan, includes matching contributions at the rate of (1) $1.00 for each $1.00 contributed, up to 3% of the Companybase salary and is in the best interests(2) $0.50 for each $1.00 contributed thereafter, up to 5% of the Company's shareholders.base salary and permits make discretionary contributions. The 401(k) plans are intended to qualify under Sections 401(k) and 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Contributions to such a qualified plan are deductible by the Company when made, and neither the contributions nor the income earned on those contributions is taxable to plan participants until withdrawn. All 401(k) plan contributions are credited to separate accounts maintained in trust.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

 

The potential dilution resulting from issuing all offollowing table sets forth certain information concerning the proposed 2,000,000 shares under the 2017 Plan would be ___% on a fully-diluted basis.

If approved, the 2017 Plan will constitute the first such plan ever adopted by the Company. Assuming shareholders approve the 2017 Plan, the 2017 Plan will be effective as the date of the Annual Meeting.

We are seeking shareholder approval of the 2017 Plan in order to satisfy certain legal requirements, including making awards under it eligible for beneficial tax treatment. In addition, the Board regards shareholder approval of the 2017 Plan as desirable and consistent with good corporate governance practices.

Summary of the 2017 Plan

The following is a description of the principal terms of the 2017 Plan. The summary is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the 2017 Plan, which is attached as Appendix F to this Proxy Statement.

General. The 2017 Plan would authorize the grant to eligible individuals of (1) stock options (incentive and nonstatutory), (2) restricted stock, (3) stock appreciation rights, or SARs, (4) restricted stock units, and (5) other stock-based compensation.

Stock Subject to the 2017 Plan. The maximum number of shares of our Common Stock that may bebeneficially owned based on 49,774,538 issued under the 2017 Plan is 2,000,000 shares, which amount will be increased to the extent that compensated granted under the 2017 Plan are forfeited, expire or are settled for cash (except as otherwise provided in the 2017 Plan).

Substitute awards (awards made or shares issued by the Company in assumption of, or in substitution or exchange for, awards previously granted, or the right or obligation to make future awards, in each case by a company acquired by the Company or any Company subsidiary or with which the Company or any subsidiary combines) will not reduce the shares authorized for grant under the 2017 Plan, nor will shares subject to a substitute award be added to the shares available for issuance or transfer under the 2017 Plan.

No Liberal Share Recycling. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, any and all stock that is (i) withheld or tendered in payment of an option exercise price; (ii) withheld by the Company or tendered by the grantee to satisfy any tax withholding obligation with respect to any award; (iii) covered by a SAR that it is settled in stock, without regard to the number ofoutstanding shares of stock that are actually issued to the grantee upon exercise; or (vi) reacquired by the Company on the open market or otherwise using cash proceeds from the exercise of options, shall not be added to the maximum number of shares of stock that may be issued under the 2017 Plan.

Limits per Participant. With respect to awards intended to qualifyCommon Stock as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the Code,Record Date by: (i) each of our directors; (ii) each of our named executive officers; and (iii) each person known to us to be the 2017 Plan provides that, subject to adjustment as provided in the 2017 Plan, no participant may, in any 12-month period (i) be granted options or SARs with respect tobeneficial owner of more than 750,0005% of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock (ii) earn morebased upon Schedules 13G or 13D filed with the SEC.

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Other than 500,000as described in the notes to the table, we believe that all persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to shares beneficially owned by them. All share ownership figures include shares issuable upon exercise of options or warrants exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date, which are deemed outstanding and beneficially owned by such person for purposes of computing his or her percentage ownership, but not for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. 

Name and address of beneficial owner Number of    
shares   Approximate
beneficially   percent
owned   of class
Greater than 5% Beneficial Owners:      

Philou Ventures, LLC

P.O. Box 3587 Tustin, CA 92705

 7,872 (2) 0.02%
Ault & Company, Inc. 1,362,795 (3) 2.74%
Directors and Officers: (1)      
Milton Ault, III 1,365,307 (4) 2.74%
William Horne 806 (7) *
Henry Nisser 4,753 (5) 0.01%
Ken Cragun 0   *
Robert Smith 54 (6) *
Mordechai Rosenberg 0   *
Jeffrey A. Bentz 9   *
Jodi Brichan 0   *
Howard Ash 0   *
Glen E. Tellock 0   *
All directors and executive officers as a group (ten persons) 1,370,929   2.75%

*Less than one percent.

(1)Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is c/o Ault Global Holdings, Inc., 11411 Southern Heights Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

(2)Included 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock that are convertible in 2,232 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 2,232 share of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date. Also includes 3,408 shares of common stock.

(3)Includes shares owned by Philou Ventures of which Ault & Company, Inc., is the Manager, warrants to purchase 94 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date. Also includes 1,358,143 shares of common stock.

(4)Mr. Ault is the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. Includes 7,872 shares owned by Philou Ventures and 1,354,923 shares owned by Ault & Company which may be deemed beneficially owned by Mr. Ault. Also includes 469 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant and 2,043 shares of common stock.

(5)Includes 4,753 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant.

(6)Includes warrants to purchase 54 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.

(7)Includes 750 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

Our Audit Committee or in certain instances, a special committee of our board of directors, monitors and reviews issues involving potential conflicts of interest and approves all transactions with related persons as defined in Item 404 of Regulation S-K under the securities laws. Examples of such transactions that must be approved by our Audit Committee or a special committee of our board of directors include, but are not limited to any transaction, arrangement, relationship (including any indebtedness) in which:

the aggregate amount involved is determined to by the Audit Committee to be material;

we are a participant; and

any of the following has or will have a direct or indirect interest in the transaction:

an executive officer, director, or nominee for election as a director;

a greater than five percent beneficial owner of our common stock; or

any immediate family member of the foregoing.

When reviewing transactions with a related person, the Audit Committee or any special committee of our board of directors formed for that purpose applies the standards for evaluating conflicts of interest outlined in our written Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our stockholders or directors. Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Executive Chairman, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc.

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our stockholders or directors. Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc.

Ault & Company, Inc.

On December 23, 2019, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement whereby Ault & Company, Inc. would purchase an aggregate of 660,667 shares of our common stock at a purchase price per share of $1.12, subject to the approval of the NYSE American, for a total purchase price of $739,948. The purchase was authorized by the NYSE American on January 15, 2020. As a result, at the closing on January 15, 2020, Ault & Company became the beneficial owner of 666,945 shares of Common Stock, or up to 19.99% of our common stock then outstanding.

On February 5, 2020, we sold and issued an 8% Convertible Promissory Note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Note”) to Ault & Company, Inc. The principal amount of the Note, plus any accrued and unpaid interest at a rate of 8% per annum, was due and payable on August 5, 2020. The Note is convertible into shares of our common stock, par value $0.001 per share at a conversion price of $1.45 per share. On August 20, 2020, the Company issued 413,793 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $600,000 in principal. On May 12, 2021, the Company issued 275,862 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $400,000 in principal.

Milton C. Ault, III, our Executive Chairman, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. William B. Horne, our Chief Executive Officer, Vice Chairman and Director, is also Chief Financial Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. Henry Nisser, our President, General Counsel and a member of our board of directors, is also the President, General Counsel and a director of Ault & Company, Inc.

Avalanche International Corp.

On September 6, 2017, we entered into a Loan and Security Agreement with Avalanche (as amended, the “AVLP Loan Agreement”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017 pursuant to which we will provide Avalanche a non-revolving credit facility. The AVLP Loan Agreement was recently increased to up to $15,000,000 and extended to December 31, 2023.

 At December 31, 2020, we had provided Avalanche with $11,269,136 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase 22,537,871 shares of Avalanche common stock. Under the terms of the AVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by Avalanche are secured by the assets of Avalanche. As of December 31, 2020, we recorded contractual interest receivable attributed to the AVLP Loan Agreement of $2,025,475 and a provision for loan losses of $3,423,608. The warrants issued in conjunction with the non-revolving credit facility entitles us to purchase up to 22,537,871 shares of Avalanche common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of five years. The exercise price of $0.50 is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis.

Milton C. Ault, III and William Horne, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, respectively, and two of our directors are directors of Avalanche. In addition, Philou Ventures, of which Ault & Company, Inc., is the Manager, is the controlling stockholder of Avalanche. Mr. Ault is the Executive Chairman of Avalanche. Further, our President, General Counsel and one of our directors, is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Avalanche.

PROPOSALS OF STOCKHOLDERS FOR THE 2022 ANNUAL MEETING

If you want to submit a proposal for inclusion in our proxy statement for the 2022 Annual Meeting of stockholders, you may do so by following the procedures in Rule 14a-8 under restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, performance awards and/the Exchange Act. To be eligible for inclusion, stockholder proposals (other than nominees for directors) must be received at the Company’s principal executive office, at the following address 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141, Attention: Corporate Secretary, no later than ________ __, 2022 (120 days before the anniversary of this year’s mailing date).

A stockholder’s notice to the Secretary must set forth as to each matter the stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting: (i) a description in reasonable detail of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting, (ii) the name and address, as they appear on the Company’s books, of the stockholder proposing such business and of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, (iii) such information regarding each director nominee or each matter of business to be proposed by such stockholder as would be required to be included in a proxy statement filed pursuant to the proxy rules of the U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, had the nominee been nominated, or intended to be nominated, or the matter been proposed, or intended to be proposed by the Board; (iv) if applicable, the consent of each nominee to be named in the proxy statement and to serve as director of the Company if so elected; (v) the class and number of shares of the Company that are owned beneficially and of record by the stockholder proposing such business and by the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, and (vi) any material interest of such stockholder proposing such business and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made in such business.

Stockholder proposals intended to be presented at the 2022 Annual Meeting must be received by the Company no later than reasonable time in advance of the date of the 2022 Annual Meeting, which in the Company’s opinion would be no less than 120 days before that date (pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act) to be eligible for inclusion in the Company’s proxy statement and form of proxy for next year’s meeting. The Company has yet to determine the date of its 2022 Annual Meeting. Proposals should be addressed to Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

For any proposal that is not submitted for inclusion in next year’s proxy statement (as described in the preceding paragraph), but is instead sought to be presented directly at the 2022 Annual Meeting, the federal securities laws require Stockholders to give advance notice of such proposals. The required notice must (pursuant to Rule 14a-4 of the Exchange Act), be given no less than a reasonable time in advance of the date of the 2022 Annual Meeting, which in the Company’s opinion would be no less than 45 days before that date. The Company has yet to determine the date of its 2022 Annual Meeting. Any such notice must be provided to Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141. If a stockholder fails to provide timely notice of a proposal to be presented at the 2022 Annual Meeting, the chairman of the meeting will declare it out of order and disregard any such matter.

OTHER BUSINESS

The Board knows of no business to be brought before the Annual Meeting other share-based awards,than as set forth above. If other matters properly come before the stockholders at the Annual Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named on the proxy to vote the shares represented thereby on such matters in accordance with their judgment.

By Order of the Board of Directors,

 /s/ Milton C. Ault, III
Milton C. Ault, III
Executive Chairman of the Board

June __, 2021

Appendix A

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

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

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2020

Commission file number 1-12711

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware94-1721931
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240,

Las Vegas, NV

89141(949) 444-5464
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each ClassName of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per shareNYSE American

Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Act:     None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes  ¨No  þ

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or (iii) earn more than $5,000,000 under an award; provided, however, that eachSection 15(d) of these limitations shallthe Exchange Act.  Yes  ¨No  þ

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be multipliedfiled by two (2) with respect to awards granted to a participantSection 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the first calendarpreceding year (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  þNo  ¨

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  þNo  ¨

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 whichRule 12b-2 of the participant commences employmentExchange Act.

Large accelerated filer  ¨Accelerated filer  ¨
Non-accelerated filer  ¨Smaller reporting company  þ
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 usany new or anyrevised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of our subsidiaries.the Exchange Act. ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ¨

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

As of June 30, 2020, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $13,335,311 based on the closing sale price as reported on the NYSE American of $2.45. Such determination should not be deemed an admission that the registrant’s directors, officers, or 10% beneficial owners are, in fact, affiliates of the registrant.

There were 49,498,676 shares of common stock outstanding as of April 14, 2021.

Documents incorporated by reference: None

 


 

Notwithstanding any other provision of the 2017 Plan to the contrary, no non-employee director may be granted awards during any calendar year in excess of $350,000 in total value, either in cash, shares of stock or a combination of cash and stock, provided, however, that in extraordinary circumstances, that limit can be increased to $500,000.AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Eligibility. Employees of, and consultants to, our Company or its affiliates and members of our Board are eligible to receive equity awards under the 2017 Plan. Only our employees, and employees of our parent and subsidiary corporations, if any, are eligible to receive Incentive Stock Options. Employees, directors (including non-employee directors) and consultants of or for our Company and its affiliates are eligible to receive Nonstatutory Stock Options, Restricted Stock, Purchase Rights and any other form of award the 2017 Plan authorizes.FORM 10-K

 

Purpose. The purpose of the 2017 Plan is to promote the interests of the Company and its shareholders by providing executive officers, employees, non-employee directors, and key advisors of the Company and its defined subsidiaries with appropriate incentives and rewards to encourage them to enter into and remain in their positions with the Company and to acquire a proprietary interest in the long-term success of the Company, as well as to reward the performance of these individuals in fulfilling their personal responsibilities for long-range and annual achievements.FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

Administration. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, the Compensation Committee administers the 2017 Plan. The Compensation Committee is composed solely of “non-employee directors” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, “outside directors”

INDEX

Page
PART I
Item 1.Description of Business1
Item 1A.Risk Factors20
Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments47
Item 2.Properties47
Item 3.Legal Proceedings48
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures51
PART II
Item 5.Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities51
Item 6.Selected Financial Data52
Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations53
Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.64
Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.F-1 – F-64
Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure64
Item 9A.Controls and Procedures64
Item 9B.Other Information67
PART III
Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance67
Item 11.Executive Compensation73
Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters78
Item 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence79
Item 14.Principal Accountant Fees and Services80
PART IV
Item 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.82
Item 16.Form 10-K Summary85
Signatures86

NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K (the “Annual Report”) contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 162(m)27A of the Internal Revenue Code,Securities Act of 1933, and “independent directors” withinSection 21E of the meaningSecurities Exchange Act of NYSE American listing standards. The Compensation Committee has1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. We have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “potential,” “predict,” “should” or “will” or the power,negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions; uncertainties and other factors may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels or activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in its discretion,the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Our expectations are as of the date this Annual Report is filed, and we do not intend to grant awardsupdate any of the forward-looking statements after the date this Annual Report is filed to confirm these statements to actual results, unless required by law.

This Annual Report also contains estimates and other statistical data made by independent parties and by us relating to market size and growth and other industry data. This data involves a number of assumptions and limitations, and you are cautioned not to give undue weight to such estimates. We have not independently verified the statistical and other industry data generated by independent parties and contained in this Annual Report and, accordingly, we cannot guarantee their accuracy or completeness, though we do generally believe the data to be reliable. In addition, projections, assumptions and estimates of our future performance and the future performance of the industries in which we operate are necessarily subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of factors, including those described in “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report. These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the estimates made by the independent parties and by us.

RISK FACTOR SUMMARY

Below is a summary of the principal factors that make an investment in our common stock speculative. This summary does not address all of the risks that we face. Additional discussion of the risks summarized in this risk factor summary, and other risks that we face, can be found below under the 2017 Plan, to selectheading “Risk Factors” and should be carefully considered, together with other information in this Annual Report and our other filings with the individuals to whom awards are granted, to determine the terms of the grants, to interpret the provisions of the 2017 PlanSecurities and to otherwise administer the 2017 Plan. Except as prohibited by applicable lawExchange Commission, or any rule promulgated by a national securities exchange to which the Company may in the future be subject, the Compensation Committee may delegate all or any of its responsibilities and powers under the 2017 Plan to one or more of its members, including, without limitation, the power to designate participants and determine the amount, timing and term of awards under the 2017 Plan. In no event, however, shall the Compensation Committee have the power to accelerate the payment or vesting of any award, other than in the event of death, disability, retirement or a change of control of the Company.

The 2017 Plan provides that members of the Compensation Committee shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company from any loss or expense resulting from claims and litigation arising from actions related to the 2017 Plan.

Term. If approved, the 2017 Plan is effective ______, 2017 and awards may be granted through ______, 2027. No awards may be granted under the 2017 Plan subsequent to that date. The Board may suspend or terminate the 2017 Plan without shareholder approval or ratification at any time or from time to time.

Amendments. Subject to the terms of the 2017 Plan, the Compensation Committee as administrator has the sole discretion to interpret the provisions of the 2017 Plan and outstanding awards. Our Board generally may amend or terminate the 2017 Plan at any time and for any reason, except that no amendment, suspension, or termination may impair the rights of any participant without his or her consent, and except that approval ofSEC, before making investment decisions regarding our shareholders is required for any amendment which:common stock.

 

·

IncreasesWe will need to raise additional capital to fund our operations in furtherance of our business plan.

·We face business disruption and related risks resulting from the numberoutbreak of sharesCOVID-19, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of Common Stockoperations and curtail our ability to raise financing.

·We have an evolving business model, which increases the complexity of our business.

·We received an order and a subpoena from the Commission in the investigation now known as “In the Matter of DPW Holdings, Inc.,” the consequences of which are unknown.

·If we make any additional acquisitions, they may disrupt or have a negative impact on our business.

·Our growth strategy is subject to the 2017 Plan;

a significant degree of risk.

·We are heavily dependent on our senior management, and a loss of a member of our senior management team could cause our stock price to suffer.

·If we fail to anticipate and adequately respond to rapid technological changes in our industry, including evolving industry-wide standards, in a timely and cost-effective manner, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

·We depend upon a few major customers for a majority of our revenues, and the loss of any of these customers, or the substantial reduction in the quantity of products that they purchase from us, would significantly reduce our revenues and net income.

·If we do not continue to satisfy the NYSE American continued listing requirements, our common stock could be delisted from NYSE American.

·Our common stock price is volatile.

 

Decreases the price at which grants may be granted;

PART I

ITEM 1.BUSINESS

General

Ault Global Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation formerly known as DPW Holdings (“Ault Global,” the “Company” or “we”), was incorporated in September 2017. The Company is a diversified holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in, among others, the following operating businesses: commercial and defense solutions, commercial lending and advanced textile technology. The Company’s direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries include Gresham Worldwide, Inc. (“GWW”), Coolisys Technologies Corp. (“Coolisys”), Digital Power Corporation, Gresham Power Electronics Ltd. (f/k/a Digital Power Limited) (“Gresham Power”), Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd (“Enertec”), Relec Electronics Ltd., Digital Power Lending, LLC (“DP Lending”), Ault Alliance, Inc. (“Ault Alliance”), and Tansocial LLC (“Tansocial”). The Company also has a controlling interest in Microphase Corporation (“Microphase”) and Ault Alliance has a controlling interest in and Alliance Cloud Services, LLC (“ACS”). Ault Global Holdings was founded by Milton “Todd” Ault III, its Executive Chairman and is led by Mr. Ault, William B. Horne, its Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman and Henry Nisser, its President and General Counsel. Together, they constitute the Executive Committee, which manages the day-to-day operations of the holding company. The Company’s long-term objective is to maximize per share intrinsic value. All major investment and capital allocation decisions are made for the Company by Mr. Ault and the Executive Committee. The Company has three reportable segments:

·GWW – defense solutions with operations conducted by Microphase, Enertec, Gresham Power and Relec,

·Coolisys – commercial electronics solutions with operations conducted by Digital Power Corporation, and

·Ault Alliance – commercial lending through DP Lending, data center operations through ACS, digital marketing through Tansocial and digital learning.

We operate as a holding company with operations conducted primarily through our subsidiaries. We conduct our activities in a manner so as not to be deemed an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”). Generally, this means that we do not invest or intend to invest in securities as our primary business and that no more than 40% of our total assets will be invested in investment securities, as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act. Pursuant to the Investment Company Act, companies such as our subsidiary DP Lending are excluded from the definition of an investment company since its business consists of making small loans and industrial banking. We also maintain a considerable investment in Avalanche International, Corp., which does business as MTIX International.

Originally, we were primarily a solution-driven organization that designed, developed, manufactured and sold high-grade customized and flexible power system solutions for the medical, military, telecom and industrial markets. Although we actively seek growth through acquisitions, we will also continue to focus on high-grade and custom product designs for the commercial, medical and military/defense markets, where customers demand high density, high efficiency and ruggedized products to meet the harshest and/or military mission critical operating conditions.

We have operations located in Europe through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Gresham Power Electronics (f/k/a Digital Power Limited) (“Gresham Power”), located in Salisbury, England. Gresham Power designs, manufactures and sells power products and system solutions mainly for the European marketplace, including power conversion, power distribution equipment, DC/AC (Direct Current/Active Current) inverters and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) products. Our European defense business is specialized in the field of naval power distribution products.

On November 30, 2016, we formed DP Lending, a wholly-owned subsidiary. DP Lending provides commercial loans to companies throughout the United States to provide them with operating capital to finance the growth of their businesses. The loans range in duration from six months to three years, DP Lending loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Financing Law license (Lic.no. 60 DBO77905).

On June 2, 2017, we purchased 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation (“Microphase”). Microphase is a design-to-manufacture original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) industry leader delivering world-class radio frequency (“RF”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“DLVA”) to the military, aerospace and telecommunications industries. Microphase is headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut.

 

Reprices existing options;

 

Materially increases the benefits

On January 7, 2020, we formed Coolisys Technologies Corp. (“Coolisys”), a wholly-owned subsidiary. Coolisys operates its existing businesses in the customized and flexible power system solutions for the automotive, medical, military, telecom, commercial and industrial markets, other than the European markets, which are primarily served by Gresham Power.

On September 1, 2017, Digital Power Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“DPC”), a subsidiary of Coolisys since January 20, 2020, acquired all of the outstanding membership interests in Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Power-Plus”). Power-Plus is an industrial distributor of value added power supply solutions, UPS systems, fans, filters, line cords, and other power-related components. In addition to its current business, Power-Plus will serve as an extended sales organization for our overall flexible power system solutions.

On December 31, 2017, Coolisys Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“CTI”) entered into a share purchase agreement with Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. (“MICT”), a Delaware corporation, Enertec Management Ltd., an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of MICT (“EML”), and Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“Enertec”), an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of EML, pursuant to which CTI acquired Enertec. Enertec is Israel’s largest private manufacturer of specialized electronic systems for the military market. On May 23, 2018, CTI completed its acquisition of Enertec.

In January 2018, we formed Super Crypto Mining, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, which changed its name to Digital Farms, Inc. (“DFI”) on January 18, 2019. DFI was established to operate our newly formed cryptocurrency business, which is pursuing a variety of digital currency. We used to mine the top three cryptocurrencies for our own account. These cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Litecoin and Ethereum. DFI’s operations were discontinued in the first quarter of 2020. 

On May 23, 2018, DP Lending entered into and closed a securities purchase agreement with I. AM, Inc. (“I. AM”), David J. Krause and Deborah J. Krause. Pursuant to the securities purchase agreement, I. AM sold to DP Lending, 981 shares of common stock for a purchase price of $981, representing, upon the closing, 98.1% of I. AM’s outstanding common stock. I.AM owed DP Lending $1,715,330 in outstanding principal, pursuant to a loan and security agreement, between I. AM and DP Lending. The purchase agreement provides that, as I. AM repays the outstanding loan to DP Lending in accordance with the loan agreement, DP Lending will on a pro rata basis transfer shares of common stock of I. AM to David J. Krause, up to an aggregate of 471 shares. I. AM’s operations were discontinued in the first quarter of 2020. 

Gresham Worldwide, Inc. was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on November 21, 2018 as DPW Technologies Group, Inc. and effected a name change on December 6, 2019.

On November 30, 2020, we acquired Relec, a privately held company based in Wareham, the United Kingdom. The transaction was structured as a stock purchase under which we paid approximately $4,000,000 with additional contingent cash payments up to approximately $665,000 based on Relec’s future financial performance. The acquisition of Relec has enhanced our presence in industrial and transportation markets in the United Kingdom and Europe and considerably broadened our product portfolio, including high-quality power conversion and display product offerings. Relec specializes in AC-DC power supplies, DC-DC converters, displays and EMC filters.

On January 29, 2021, Alliance Cloud Services, LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ault Alliance, closed on the acquisition of a 617,000 square foot energy-efficient facility located on a 34.5 acre site in southern Michigan for a purchase price of $3,991,497. The purchase price was paid by the Company using its own working capital.

We are a Delaware corporation, initially formed in California in 1969 and reincorporated in Delaware in 2017. We are located at 11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141. Our phone number is (949) 444-5464 and our website address is www.aultglobal.com.

Recent Events

On January 19, 2021, the Company changed its name from DPW Holdings, Inc., to Ault Global Holdings, Inc. (the “Name Change”). The Name Change was effected through a parent/subsidiary short form merger pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated January 7, 2021. Neither the merger nor resulting Name Change affected the rights of security holders of the Company. The Company’s common stock continues to be quoted on the NYSE American under the symbol “DPW.” Existing stock certificates that reflect the Company’s prior corporate name will continue to be valid. Certificates reflecting the new corporate name will be issued in due course as old stock certificates are tendered for exchange or transfer to the Company’s transfer agent. Concurrently with the change in our name, Milton C. Ault, III was appointed as our Executive Chairman, William B. Horne was appointed as our Chief Executive Officer and remains as Vice Chairman of our board of directors, and Henry Nisser was appointed as our President and remains as our General Counsel.

Commencing in October of 2019 and continuing through February of 2020, the Company reorganized its corporate structure pursuant to a series of transactions by and among the Company and its directly and indirectly owned subsidiaries. The purpose of the reorganization was to align the Company’s various businesses by the products and services that constitute the majority of each subsidiaries’ revenues. As a result of the foregoing transactions, the Company’s corporate structure is as follows:

 

On December 23, 2019, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement whereby Ault & Company, Inc. would purchase an aggregate of 660,667 shares of Common Stock at a purchase price per share of $1.12, subject to the approval of the NYSE American, for a total purchase price of $739,948. The purchase was authorized by the NYSE American on January 15, 2020. As a result, at the closing on January 15, 2020, Ault & Company became the beneficial owner of 666,945 shares of Common Stock, or up to 19.99% of the Common Stock then outstanding.

On February 5, 2020, we sold and issued an 8% Convertible Promissory Note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Note”) to Ault & Company, Inc. The principal amount of the Note, plus any accrued and unpaid interest at a rate of 8% per annum, shall be due and payable on August 5, 2020. The Note shall be convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”) at a conversion price of $1.45 per share, subject to participants; or

Changes the class of persons eligible to receive grants under the 2017 Plan.

Repricing Prohibition. Other than in connection with certain corporate events, the Compensation Committee shall not, without the approval of the Company’s shareholders, (a) lower the option price per share of an option or SAR after it is granted, (b) cancel an Option or SAR when the exercise price per share exceeds the fair market value of one share in exchange for cash or another award (other than in connection withstockholders at a change of control), or (c) take any other action with respect to an Option or SAR that would be treatedspecial meeting thereof, as a repricing under the rules and regulationsrequired by Rule 713(a)(ii) of the principal U.S. national securities exchange on whichNYSE Company Guide, and subsequently, authorization from the Company’s shares are then listed.


Minimum Vesting Requirement. Grantees of full-value awards (i.e., awards other than options and SARs), will be required to continue to provide services to the Company or an affiliated company) for not less than one-year following the date of grant in order for any such full-value Awards to fully or partially vest (other than in case of death, disability or a Change of Control). Notwithstanding the foregoing, up to five percent (5%) of the available shares of stock authorized for issuance under the 2017 Plan may provide for vesting of full-value awards, partially or in full, in less than one-year.

Adjustments upon Changes in Capitalization. In the event of any merger, reorganization, consolidation, recapitalization, dividend or distribution (whether in cash, shares or other property, other than a regular cash dividend), stock split, reverse stock split, spin-off or similar transaction or other change in our corporate structure affecting our Common Stock or the value thereof, appropriate adjustments to the 2017 Plan and awards will be made as the Board determines to be equitable or appropriate, including adjustments in the number and class of shares of stock available for issuance under the 2017 Plan, the number, class and exercise or grant price of shares subject to awards outstanding under the 2017 Plan, and the limits on the number of awards that any person may receive.

Change of Control. Agreements evidencing awards under the 2017 Plan may provide that upon a Change of Control (as defined in the 2017 Plan), unless otherwise provided in the agreement evidencing an award), outstanding Awards may be cancelled and terminated without payment if the consideration payable with respect to one share of Stock in connection with the Change of Control is less than the exercise price or grant price applicable to such Award, as applicable.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of the 2017 Plan to the contrary, the vesting, payment, purchase or distribution of an Award may not be accelerated by reason of a Change of Control for any participant unless the Grantee’s employment is involuntarily terminated as a result of the Change of Control as provided in the Award agreement or in any other written agreement, including an employment agreement, between us and the participant. If the Change of Control results in the involuntary termination of participant’s employment, outstanding awards will immediately vest, become fully exercisable and may thereafter be exercised.NYSE American.

 

Generally, underOn February 10, 2020, we entered into a Master Exchange Agreement (the “Master Exchange Agreement”) with Esousa Holdings, LLC (“Esousa” or the 2017 Plan,Creditor”) that acquired approximately $4.2 million in principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of certain promissory notes that had been previously issued by us to Dominion Capital, LLC, a ChangeConnecticut limited liability company (the “Dominion Note”) and the Canadian Special Opportunity Fund, LP (the “CSOF Note” and with the Dominion Note, the “Esousa Purchased Notes”) in separate transactions. The Creditor also agreed to purchase additional notes up to an additional principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of Control occurs upon (i)$3.5 million (the “Additional Notes” and collectively, with the consummation of a reorganization, merger or consolidation of our Company with or into another entity, pursuant to which our shareholders immediately priorEsousa Purchased Notes, the “Notes”). Pursuant to the transaction do not own more than 50%Exchange Agreement, the Creditor has the unilateral right to acquire shares of the total combined voting power after the transaction, (ii) the consummation of the sale, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets, (iii) certain changes in the majority of our Board from those in office on the effective date of the 2017 Plan, (iv) the acquisition of more than 50% of the total combined voting power in our outstanding securities by any person, or (v) the Company is dissolved or liquidated.

Company’s common stock (the “

Types of Awards

 

Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options and Nonstatutory Stock Options are granted pursuant to award agreements adopted by our Compensation Committee. Our Compensation Committee determines the exercise price for a stock option, within the terms and conditions of the 20172021 Plan; provided, that the exercise price of an Incentive Stock Option cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our Common Stock on the date of grant. Options granted under the 20172021 Plan vest at the rate specified by our Compensation Committee.

 

The Compensation Committee determines the term of stock options granted under the 20172021 Plan, up to a maximum of 10 years, except in the case of certain Incentive Stock Options, as described below. The Compensation Committee will also determine the length of period during which an optionee may exercise their options if an optionee’s relationship with us, or any of our affiliates, ceases for any reason; for Incentive Stock Options, this period is limited by applicable law. The Compensation Committee may extend the exercise period in the event that exercise of the option following termination of service is prohibited by applicable securities laws. In no event, however, may an option be exercised beyond the expiration of its term unless the term is extended in accordance with applicable law.

 

Acceptable consideration for the purchase of Common Stock issued upon the exercise of a stock option will be determined by the Compensation Committee and may include (a) cash or its equivalent, (b) delivering a properly executed notice of exercise of the option to us and a broker, with irrevocable instructions to the broker promptly to deliver to us the amount necessary to pay the exercise price of the option, (c) any other form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the Compensation Committee or (d) any combination of (a), (b) or (c).

 

Unless the Compensation Committee provides otherwise, options are generally transferable in accordance with applicable law, provided that any transferee of such options agrees to become bound by the terms of the 20172021 Plan. An optionee may also designate a beneficiary who may exercise the option following the optionee’soptionee’s death.

 

Incentive or Nonstatutory Stock Options. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to our employees, and the employees of our parent or subsidiary corporations, if any. The Compensation Committee may grant awards of Incentive or Nonstatutory Stock Options that are fully vested on the date made, to any of our employees, directors or consultants. Option Awards are granted pursuant to award agreements adopted by our Compensation Committee. To the extent required by applicable law, the aggregate fair market value, determined at the time of grant, of shares of our Common Stock with respect to Incentive Stock Options that are exercisable for the first time by an optionee during any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. To the extent required by applicable law, no Incentive Stock Option may be granted to any person who, at the time of the grant, owns or is deemed to own stock possessing more than 10% of our total combined voting power or that of any of our affiliates unless (a) the option exercise price is at least 110% of the fair market value of the stock subject to the option on the date of grant and (b) the term of the incentive stock option does not exceed five years from the date of grant.


 

Stock Appreciation Rights. AAn SAR is the right to receive stock, cash, or other property equal in value to the difference between the grant price of the SAR and the market price of the Company’s Common Stock on the exercise date. SARs may be granted independently or in tandem with an Option at the time of grant of the related Option. An SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be exercisable only to the extent the underlying Option is exercisable. An SAR confers on the grantee a right to receive an amount with respect to each share of Common Stock subject thereto, upon exercise thereof, equal to the excess of (A) the fair market value of one share of Common Stock on the date of exercise over (B) the grant price of the SAR (which in the case of an SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be equal to the exercise price of the underlying Option, and which in the case of any other SAR shall be such price as the Compensation Committee may determine but in no event shall be less than the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date of grant of such SAR).

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units. Restricted Stock is Common Stock that the Company grants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting criteria. A Restricted Stock Unit is a right to receive stock or cash equal to the value of a share of stock at the end of a specifiedspecified period that the Company grants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting criteria. The grant of these awards under the 20172021 Plan are subject to such terms, conditions and restrictions as the Compensation Committee determines consistent with the terms of the 20172021 Plan.

 

At the time of grant, the Compensation Committee may place restrictions on Restricted Stock and restricted stock units that shall lapse, in whole or in part, only upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscalfiscal year, and if the award is granted to a 162(m) Officer,Officer, the grant of the award and the establishment of the Performance Goals shall be made during the period required under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Except to the extent restricted under the award agreement relating to the Restricted Stock, a grantee granted Restricted Stock shall have all of the rights of a shareholderstockholder including the right to vote Restricted Stock and the right to receive dividends.

 

Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement, upon the vesting of a Restricted Stock Unit, there shall be delivered to the grantee, within 30 days of the date on which such award (or any portion thereof) vests, the number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of restricted stock units becoming so vested.

  

Other Stock-Based Awards. The 20172021 Plan also allows the Compensation Committee to grant “Other Stock-Based Awards,” which means a right or other interest that may be denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, or related to, Common Stock. Subject to the limitations contained in the 20172021 Plan, this includes, without limitation, (i) unrestricted stock awarded as a bonus or upon the attainment of Performance Goals or otherwise as permitted under the 20172021 Plan and (ii) a right to acquire stock from the Company containing terms and conditions prescribed by the Compensation Committee. At the time of the grant of Other Stock-Based Awards, the Compensation Committee may place restrictions on the payout or vesting of Other Stock-Based Awards that shall lapse, in whole or in part, only upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscalfiscal year, and if the award is granted to a 162(m) Officer,Officer, the grant of the Award and the establishment of the Performance Goals shall be made during the period required under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). Other Stock-Based Awards may not be granted with the right to receive dividend equivalent payments.

 

Performance Awards. Performance awards provide participants with the opportunity to receive shares of our Common Stock, cash or other property based on performance and other vesting conditions. Performance awards may be granted from time to time as determined at the discretion of the Board, or the Compensation Committee (as applicable). Subject to the share limit and maximum dollar value set forth above under “Limits per Participant,” the Board, or the Compensation Committee (as applicable), has the discretion to determine (i) the number of shares of Common Stock under, or the dollar value of, a performance award and (ii) the conditions that must be satisfied for grant or for vesting, which typically will be based principally or solely on achievement of performance goals.

 


Performance Criteria. With respect to awards intended to qualify as performance-based compensation under Code Section 162(m), a committee of “outside directors” (as defined in Code Section 162(m)) with authority delegated by our Board will determine the terms and conditions of such awards, including the performance criteria. The performance goals for restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance awards or other share-based awards shall be based on the attainment of specified levels of one or any combination of the following:

 

·

the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified percentage increase in, revenues, earnings, income before taxes and extraordinary items, net income, operating income, earnings before or after deduction for all or any portion of income tax, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization or a combination of any or all of the foregoing;

·

the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax profits including, without limitation, that attributable to continuing and/or other operations;

·

the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, operational cash flow;

·

the achievement of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in, all or a portion of, the Company’sCompany’s bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations of the Company, which may be calculated net of such cash balances and/or other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Compensation Committee;

·

earnings per share or the attainment of a specified percentage increase in earnings per share or earnings per share from continuing operations;

·

the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in return on capital employed or return on invested capital;

·

the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax return on shareholdersstockholders’ equity;

·

the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, economic value added targets based on a cash flow return on investment formula;

·

the attainment of certain target levels in, or specified increases in, the fair market value of the shares of the Company’sCompany’s Common Stock;

·

the growth in the value of an investment in the Company’sCompany’s Common Stock;

·

the attainment of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level in or increase in, all or a portion of controllable expenses or costs or other expenses or costs;

·

gross or net sales, revenue and growth of sales revenue (either before or after cost of goods, selling and general administrative expenses, research and development expenses and any other expenses or interest);

·

total shareholderstockholder return;

·

return on assets or net assets;

·

return on sales;

·

operating profit or net operating profit;

·

operating margin;

·

gross or net profit margin;

·

cost reductions or savings;

·

productivity;

·

operating efficiency;

·

working capital;

·

market share;

·

customer satisfaction; and

·

to the extent that an Award is not intended to comply with Section 162(m) of the Code, other measures of performance selected by the Board.

 

The performance goals may be based solely by reference to our performance or the performance of one or more of our subsidiaries, parents, divisions, business segments or business units, or based upon the relative performance of other companies or upon comparisons of any of the indicators of performance relative to other companies. The authorized committee of outside directors may also exclude under the terms of the performance awards, the impact of an event or occurrence that the committee determines should appropriately be excluded, including (i) restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items, and other unusual or non-recurring charges, or (ii) changes in generally accepted accounting principles or practices.

 

In connection with the approval of the 2017 2021 Plan, the shareholdersstockholders also are being asked to approve the above criteria for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code.

 

New Plan Benefits under the 20172021 Plan

 

Because future awards under the 20172021 Plan will be granted in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, the type, number, recipients, and other terms of such awards cannot be determined at this time.


 

U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

 

The following is a brief description of the material United States federal income tax consequences associated with awards under the 20172021 Plan. It is based on existing United States laws and regulations, and there can be no assurance that those laws and regulations will not change in the future. Tax consequences in other countries may vary. This information is not intended as tax advice to anyone, including participants in the 20172021 Plan.

 

Stock Options. Neither incentive stock option grants nor non-qualifiednon-qualified stock option grants cause any tax consequences to the participant or the Company at the time of grant. Upon the exercise of a non-qualifiednon-qualified stock option, the excess of the market value of the shares acquired over their exercise price is ordinary income to the participant and is deductible by the Company. The participant’s tax basis for the shares is the market value thereof at the time of exercise. Any gain or loss realized upon a subsequent disposition of the stock will generally constitute capital gain, in connection with which the Company will not be entitled to a tax deduction.

 

Upon the exercise of an incentive stock option, the participant will not realize taxable income, but the excess of the fair market value of the stock over the exercise price may give rise to alternative minimum tax. When the stock acquired upon exercise of an incentive stock option is subsequently sold, the participant will recognize income equal to the difference between the sales price and the exercise price of the option. If the sale occurs after the expiration of two years from the grant date and one year from the exercise date, the income will constitute long-term capital gain. If the sale occurs prior to that time, the participant will recognize ordinary income to the extent of the lesser of the gain realized upon the sale or the difference between the fair market value of the acquired stock at the time of exercise and the exercise price; any additional gain will constitute capital gain. The Company will be entitled to a deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant, but no deduction in connection with any capital gain recognized by the participant. If the participant exercises an incentive stock option more than three months after his or her termination of employment due to retirement or other separation other than death or disability, or more than twelve months after his or her termination of employment due to death or permanent disability, he or she is deemed to have exercised a non-qualifiednon-qualified stock option.

Compensation realized by participants on the exercise of non-qualified stock options or the disposition of shares acquired upon exercise of any incentive stock options should qualify as performance-based compensation under the Code and thus not be subject to the $1,000,000 deductibility limit of Code Section 162(m).

 

Stock Appreciation Rights. A participant granted a stock appreciation right under the 20172021 Plan will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time the award is granted. When the participant exercises the stock appreciation right, the amount of cash and the fair market value of any shares of stock or other consideration received will be ordinary income to the participant and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time. Compensation realized by the participant on the exercise of the stock appreciation right should qualify as performance-based compensation under the Code and thus not be subject to the $1,000,000 deductibility limit of Code Section 162(m).

 

Restricted Stock. Restricted stock is not taxable to a participant at the time of grant, but instead is included in ordinary income (at its then fair market value) when the restrictions lapse. A participant may elect, however, to recognize income at the time of grant, in which case the fair market value of the restricted shares at the time of grant is included in ordinary income and there is no further income recognition when the restrictions lapse. If a participant makes such an election and thereafter forfeits the restricted shares, he or she will be entitled to no tax deduction, capital loss or other tax benefit.benefit. The Company is entitled to a tax deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

 

A participant’sparticipant’s tax basis for restricted shares will be equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by the participant. The participant will recognize capital gain (or loss) on a sale of the restricted stock if the sale price exceeds (or is lower than) such basis. The holding period for restricted shares for purposes of characterizing gain or loss on the sale of any shares as long- or short-term commences at the time the participant recognizes ordinary income pursuant to an award. The Company is not entitled to a tax deduction corresponding to any capital gain or loss of the participant.

 

Restricted Stock Units. A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a restricted stock unit award is granted. Upon receipt of shares of stock (or the equivalent value in cash or any combination of cash and the Company Common Stock) in settlement of a restricted stock unit award, a participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock and cash received as of that date (less any amount he or she paid for the stock and cash), and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

 

Performance Awards. A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a performance award is granted (for example, when the performance goals are established). Upon receipt of stock or cash (or a combination thereof) in settlement of a performance award, the participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock and cash received, and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).


 

Code Section 409A. If an award is subject to Code Section 409A (which relates to nonqualifiednonqualified deferred compensation plans), and if the requirements of Section 409A are not met, the taxable events as described above could apply earlier than described, and could result in the imposition of additional taxes and penalties. All awards that comply with the terms of the 20172021 Plan, however, are intended to be exempt from the application of Code Section 409A or meet the requirements of Section 409A in order to avoid such early taxation and penalties.

 

Tax Withholding. The Company has the right to deduct or withhold, or require a participant to remit to the Company, an amount sufficientsufficient to satisfy federal, state and local taxes (including employment taxes) required by law to be withheld with respect to any exercise, lapse of restriction or other taxable event arising as a result of the 20172021 Plan. The Compensation Committee may, at the time the award is granted or thereafter, require or permit that any such withholding requirement be satisfied,satisfied, in whole or in part, by delivery of, or withholding from the award, shares having a fair market value on the date of withholding equal to the amount required to be withheld for tax purposes.

 

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

 

Approval of the 20172021 Plan requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of the Company's Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

 

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of the 20172021 Plan.

PROPOSAL NO. 5

APPROVAL OF THE 2021 EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN

Overview

We are asking stockholders to approve the Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Employee Stock IncentivePurchase Plan (the “2021 ESPP”), which the Board has approved subject to the approval of our stockholders.

We strongly believe in improving opportunities for our employees to reap the benefits of increases in our stock’s value. The ability to contribute a portion of earnings to purchase our shares would represent a key benefit for our employees. We believe that such a program improves our ability to attract, retain and incentivize our talent, and ultimately, better aligns the interests of our employees with those of our stockholders. As of March 31, 2021, we anticipate that approximately 150 of our employees will be eligible to participate in the 2021 ESPP.

Summary of the 2021 ESPP

The following general description of material features of the 2021 ESPP is qualified in its entirety by reference to the provisions of the 2021 ESPP set forth in Appendix C.

Purpose and Eligibility. The 2021 ESPP is intended to assist our employees in acquiring share ownership interest in our company, to encourage our employees to remain with us, and to better align their interests with those of our stockholders. The 2021 ESPP is intended to have two components: a component intended to qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) (the “423 Component”) and a component that is not intended to so qualify (the “Non-423 Component”). Except as otherwise provided, the Non-423 Component will be operated and administered in the same manner as the 423 Component, except where prohibited by law.

Our executive officers and all of our other employees who have worked at our company for at least six months will be allowed to participate in the 2021 ESPP, provided that the administrator, in its discretion, may also exclude any or all of the following unless prohibited by applicable law, so long as, for offerings under the 423 Component, any such exclusion is applied uniformly to all employees:

 

any employee who is customarily scheduled to work 20 hours or less per week;


any employee whose customary employment is not more than five months in a calendar year;

any employee who is not employed by us prior to the applicable exercise date; and

any employee who is a highly compensated employee (within the meaning of Section 414(q) of the Code) or any highly compensated employee with compensation above a specified level, who is an officer, or who is subject to the disclosure requirements of Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act; or

any employee who is a citizen or resident of a jurisdiction outside the United States if the grant of the option is prohibited under the laws of the jurisdiction governing such employee or compliance with the laws of the jurisdiction would cause the Section 423 Component or any offering or option granted thereunder to violate the requirements of Section 423 of the Code.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, any employee who, after the granting of the option, would possess 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of shares of our company shall not be eligible. In addition, no employee shall be granted an option under the Section 423 Component which permits the employee to purchase shares under all of our “employee stock purchase plans” that would accrue at a rate which exceeds $25,000 of fair market value of our stock (determined at the time such option is granted) for each calendar year in which such option is outstanding at any time.

Administration. The 2021 ESPP will be administered by the Compensation Committee or its delegates, subject to applicable laws. The administrator will have full and exclusive authority to interpret the terms of the 2021 ESPP and determine eligibility, subject to the conditions of the 2021 ESPP, as described below.

Share Reserve. The maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued pursuant to the 2021 ESPP will be equal to 980,000 shares. In addition, on each January 1 beginning on January 1, 2022 and ending on January 1, 2031, the aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance under the 2021 ESPP will be increased automatically by the number of shares equal to 1% of the total number of all classes of our outstanding shares of common stock on the immediately preceding December 31; except that the administrator may in its sole discretion reduce the amount of the increase in any particular year.

25

Contributions and Purchases. The 2021 ESPP will permit participants to purchase common stock through contributions (in the form of payroll deductions or otherwise to the extent permitted by the administrator) of up to 15% of their eligible compensation, which includes a participant’s regular and recurring straight time gross earnings or base salary, commissions and payments for overtime and shift premiums, but excludes bonuses, equity compensation and other similar compensation. Subject to the eligibility requirements discussed above, a participant may purchase a maximum of 1,000 shares of common stock during each six-month offering period. The 2021 ESPP initially will have purchase periods of approximately 6 months in duration commencing with the first trading day after one exercise date and ending with the next exercise date, as determined by the administrator. The offering periods will start on such trading days as determined by the administrator prior to each such offering period. The administrator may, in its discretion, modify the terms of future purchase periods and offering periods, provided that no offering period may be longer than 27 months.

Amounts contributed and accumulated by the participant during any offering period will be used to purchase shares of our common stock at the end of each six-month purchase period. The purchase price of the shares will be 85% of the lower of the fair market value

of our common stock on the first trading day of the offering period or on the last trading day of the offering period.

Withdrawal and Termination of Participation. A participant may withdraw from the 2021 ESPP voluntarily at any time by filing a notice of withdrawal prior to the close of business on the date established by the administrator. A participant will be deemed to have elected to withdraw from the plan upon the termination of the participant’s employment for any reason or in the event the participant is no longer eligible to participate in the 2021 ESPP.

Restriction on Transfers. A participant may not transfer rights granted under the 2021 ESPP other than by will, the laws of descent and distribution or as otherwise provided under the 2021 ESPP.

Adjustments. In the event of certain changes in our capitalization, to prevent dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits available under the 2021 ESPP, the administrator will make adjustments, as it may deem equitable, to the number and class of shares that may be delivered, the applicable purchase price for shares, and/or the numerical share limits, pursuant to the 2021 ESPP.

Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of our proposed liquidation or dissolution, any offering period then in progress will be shortened by setting a new exercise date, and will terminate immediately prior to such liquidation or dissolution unless otherwise determined by the administrator. The administrator will notify participants of the new exercise date in writing or electronically, at which time any participant’s purchase rights will be automatically exercised, unless the participant has earlier withdrawn from the offering period.

Certain Transactions. In the event of a merger, consolidation or similar transaction, an acquiring or successor corporation may assume or substitute each outstanding option. If the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the outstanding option, the offering period then in progress will be shortened by setting a new exercise date. The administrator will notify each participant in writing or electronically that the exercise date has been changed and that the participant’s option will be exercised automatically on the new exercise date, unless the participant has already withdrawn from the offering period. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, the 2021 ESPP will be automatically terminated following a change in control (as defined in the 2021 Plan).

Summary of Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

Section 423 Component. The following summary is intended only as a general guide to the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of participation in the 2021 ESPP under the 423 Component. The summary is based on existing U.S. laws and regulations, and there can be no assurance that those laws and regulations will not change in the future. The summary does not purport to be complete and does not discuss the tax consequences upon a participant’s death, or the provisions of the income tax laws of any municipality, state or foreign country in which the participant may reside. As a result, tax consequences for any particular participant may vary based on individual circumstances.

The rights of participants to make purchases under the 2021 ESPP are intended to qualify under the provisions of Section 423 of the Code. Assuming such qualification, no income will be taxable to a participant until the sale or other disposition of shares purchased under the 2021 ESPP. Upon such sale or disposition, the participant will generally be subject to tax in an amount that depends upon the holding period of such shares prior to disposing of them.

If the shares are sold or disposed of more than two years from the first day of the offering period during which the shares were purchased and more than one year from the date of purchase, or if the participant dies while holding the shares, the participant (or his or her estate) will recognize ordinary income generally measured as the lesser of (i) the excess of the fair market value of the shares at the time such sale or disposition over the purchase price of such shares or (ii) an amount equal to 15% of the fair market value of the shares on the first day of the offering period. Any additional gain will be treated as long-term capital gain. If the shares are held for at least the holding periods described above but are sold for a price that is less than the purchase price, there will be no ordinary income and the difference will be a long-term capital loss. We will not be entitled to an income tax deduction with respect to the grant or exercise of a right to purchase our shares, or the sale of such shares by a participant, where such participant holds such shares for at least the holding periods described above.

Any sale or other disposition of shares before the expiration of the holding periods described above will be a “disqualifying disposition,” and the participant will recognize ordinary income generally measured as the excess of the fair market value of the shares on the date the shares are purchased over the purchase price, and we will be entitled to an income tax deduction for such ordinary income. Any additional gain or loss on such sale or disposition will be a long-term or short-term capital gain or loss, depending on the holding period following the date the shares were purchased by the participant prior to such sale or disposition, and we will not be entitled to an income tax deduction for any such capital gain.

Non-423 Component. The following summary is intended only as a general guide to the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of participation in the 2021 ESPP under the Non-423 Component. Rights granted under the Non- 423 Component are not intended to qualify for favorable U.S. federal income tax treatment associated with rights granted under an “employee stock purchase plan” that qualifies under provisions of Section 423 of the Code. Under this component, a participant will have compensation income equal to the value of the shares at the time of purchase, less the purchase price. When a participant sells shares purchased under the ESPP, he or she also will have a capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the sales proceeds and the value of shares at the time of purchase. Any capital gain or loss will be short-term or long-term, depending on how long the shares have been held.

Any compensation income that a participant receives upon sale of shares that he or she purchased under the Non-423 Component is subject to withholding for income, Medicare and social security taxes, as applicable.

New Plan Benefits. Participation in the ESPP is voluntary and each eligible employee will make his or her own decision whether and to what extent to participate in the ESPP. It is therefore not possible to determine the benefits or amounts that will be received in the future by individual employees or groups of employees under the ESPP.

Other Information. The administrator may at any time amend, suspend or terminate the 2021 ESPP, provided that, subject to certain exceptions described in the 2021 ESPP, no such action may adversely affect any outstanding rights to purchase stock. The 2021 ESPP will continue in effect unless earlier terminated by the administrator.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

Approval of the 2021 ESPP requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of the Company's Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of the 2021 ESPP.

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PROPOSAL NO. 6

APPROVAL OF 2020 EQUITY ISSUANCES TO DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Terms of the Issuances

On September 27, 2020, each independent director received options to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $1.79 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/12th increments over one (1) year beginning on the grant date. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On September 27, 2020, each non-independent director received options to purchase 200,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $1.79 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on the grant date. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On November 2, 2020, the Board determined to grant, subject to stockholder approval, to each independent director, 100,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in two equal installments on each of the Meeting Date and November 15, 2021.

On November 2, 2020, the Board determined to grant, subject to stockholder approval, to each non-independent director, 200,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in three equal installments on each of the Meeting Date, November 15, 2021 and May 15, 2022.

Why the Company Needs Stockholder Approval

Rule 711 of the NYSE American requires stockholder approval with respect to the establishment of (or material amendment to) a stock option or purchase plan or other equity compensation arrangement pursuant to which options or stock may be acquired by officers, directors, employees, or consultants.

Effect of Proposal on Current Stockholders

If this Proposal No. 6 is adopted, a maximum of 1,950,000 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent 3.8% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our stockholders, and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The grant of options and other equity set forth in this Proposal No. 6 to the directors of the Company requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of 2020 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company, in order to comply with Rule 711 of the NYSE American.

28

PROPOSAL NO. 7

APPROVAL OF 2021 EQUITY ISSUANCES TO DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Terms of the Issuances

On April 26, 2021, each independent director received options to purchase 150,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.55 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on January 1, 2022. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On April 26, 2021, each non-independent director received options to purchase 400,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.55 per share for a term of ten (10) years. The options shall vest in monthly 1/24th increments over two (2) years beginning on January 1, 2022. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

On January 8, 2021, each independent director received a grant, subject to stockholder approval, of 50,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in four installments on each of May 15, 2022, November 15, 2022, May 1, 2023 and November 15, 2023.

On January 8, 2021, each non-independent director received a grant, subject to stockholder approval, of 400,000 shares of Common Stock. The grant, if approved by the stockholders and the NYSE American, shall vest in four installments on each of November 15, 2022, May 1, 2023, November 15, 2023 and May 15, 2024.

On May 21, 2021, Glen Tellock was appointed to the Board effective June 4, 2021. In connection therewith, the Board determined to issue Mr. Tellock options to purchase 200,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.46 per share. The options shall vest semiannually in six (6) increments over three (3) years beginning on November 21, 2021. The exercise of these options is subject to approval of stockholders and the NYSE American.

Further, on May 21, 2021, Mr. Tellock was granted, subject to approval by the stockholders and the NYSE American, 150,000 shares of Common Stock, which shall vest in semi-annual 1/6th increments over three (3) years beginning on November 15, 2021.

Why the Company Needs Stockholder Approval

Rule 711 of the NYSE American requires stockholder approval with respect to the establishment of (or material amendment to) a stock option or purchase plan or other equity compensation arrangement pursuant to which options or stock may be acquired by officers, directors, employees, or consultants.

Effect of Proposal on Current Stockholders

If this Proposal No. 7 is adopted, provided the Company has sufficient authorized shares of Common Stock, a maximum of 3,750,000 shares of Common Stock would be issuable. Based on the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the Record Date, such shares would represent 7.0% of our total outstanding shares (giving effect to such issuance). The issuance of such shares may result in significant dilution to our stockholders, and afford them a smaller percentage interest in the voting power, liquidation value and aggregate book value of the Company. The sale or any resale of the Common Stock issued could cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline.

Required Vote and Board Recommendation

The grant of options and other equity set forth in this Proposal No. 7 to the directors of the Company requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s Common Stock present in person or by proxy and voting at the Annual Meeting.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the approval of 2021 equity issuances to directors and executive officers of the Company, in order to comply with Rule 711 of the NYSE American.

29

 

INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

 

Executive Officers

The executive officers are elected by our Board and hold office until their successors are elected and duly qualified. There are no family relationships between any of our directors or executive officers other than that Mr. and Mrs. Ault are married.officers. The current executive officers of the Company are as follows:

 

Name

Age

Offices Held

Amos Kohn*

 

57

Age

President and CEO

Offices Held

Milton C. Ault, III

 

47

51

Executive Chairman of the Board

Uri Friedlander*

William B. Horne
 

54

52

Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman

Henry Nisser52President, of Finance, General Counsel and Director
Kenneth Cragun59Chief AccountingFinancial Officer

*            On July 6, 2017, Mr. Friedlander terminated his relationship with the Company. On July 13, 2017, Mr. Kohn became our Chief Financial Officer.

 

Biographical information about Mr. Amos is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Biographical information about Mr. Ault is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

 

Uri Friedlander.Biographical information about Mr. Friedlander, age 54, has served as Vice President, Chief Accounting officer since October, 2015 until July 6, 2017. Since 1997,Horne is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Biographical information about Mr. Fridlander has servedNisser is provided in “Proposal No. 1 – Election of Directors.”

Kenneth S. Cragun

Mr. Cragun was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of Telkoor. From 1991 to 1997,the Company on August 19, 2020. Mr. Fridlander wasCragun had served as the controllerCompany’s Chief Accounting Officer since October 1, 2018. Mr. Cragun has been the Chief Financial Officer of I.T.L Ltd.Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a developerdevelopment stage entity seeking to prevent, treat and cure Alzheimer’s Disease, since October of electro optic military systems,2018. He served as a CFO Partner at Hardesty, LLC, a national executive services firm since October 2016. His assignments at Hardesty included serving as CFO of CorVel Corporation, a $1.1 billion market cap publicly traded company (NASDAQ: CRVL) and Q.P.S Ltd.a nationwide leader in technology driven, healthcare-related, risk management programs and of RISA Tech, Inc. a private structural design and optimization software company. Mr. Cragun was also CFO of two NASDAQ-listed companies, Local Corporation, from April 2009 to September 2016, which operated Local.com, a U.S. top 100 website, and Modtech Holdings, Inc., from June 2006 to March 2009, a developersupplier of power supplies, unitsmodular buildings. Prior thereto, he had financial leadership roles with increasing responsibilities at MIVA, Inc., ImproveNet, Inc., NetCharge Inc., C-Cube Microsystems, Inc, and 3-Com Corporation. Mr. Cragun serves on the Board of Directors and Chairman of the Clal Electronics Ltd. Group. From 1986 until 1991 he served as an auditor for Lyboshitz & Kasirer (Arthur Andersen) public accountants.Audit Committee of Verb Technology Company, Inc. (NASDAQ: VERB). Mr. Friedlander earnedCragun began his professional career at Deloitte. Mr. Cragun holds a B.A.Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Colorado State University-Pueblo. Mr. Cragun’s industry experience is vast, with extensive experience in fast-growth environments and economics from Tel-Aviv University.building teams in more than 20 countries. Mr. Cragun has led multiple financing transactions, including IPOs, PIPEs, convertible debt, term loans and lines of credit.

 

Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

Except as disclosed below or under Proposal No. 1, to our knowledge, none of our current executive officers has, during the past ten years:

been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);

had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against the business or property of the person, or of any partnership, corporation or business association of which he or she was a general partner or executive officer, either at the time of the bankruptcy filing or within two years prior to that time;

been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction or federal or state authority, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting, his or her involvement in any type of business, securities, futures, commodities, investment, banking, savings and loan, or insurance activities, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity;

been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated;

been the subject of, or a party to, any federal or state judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated (not including any settlement of a civil proceeding among private litigants), relating to an alleged violation of any federal or state securities or commodities law or regulation, any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order, or any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity; or

been the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.

* Mr. Cragun served as Chief Financial Officer of Local Corporation (April 2009 to September 2016), formerly based in Irvine, California, and, in June 2015, Local Corporation filed a voluntary petition in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California seeking relief under the provisions of Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code.

EXECUTIVECOMPENSATION

  

Summary Compensation Table

 

The following Summary Compensation Table sets forth all compensation earned in all capacities during the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, by our then Chief Executive Officer (“Named Executive Officer”).Officer. Because we are a Smaller Reporting Company, we only have to report information of our Chief Executive Officer as noand our two other officer met the definition of Named Executive Officer within the meaning of SEC rules.most highly compensated executive officers.

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

     

 

Name and

Principal

Position

Year

 

Salary

($)

 

 

Bonus

($)

 

 

Stock

Awards

($)

 

 

Option

Awards

($)(1)

 

 

Non-equity

Incentive Plan

Compensation

($)

 

 

Nonqualified

Deferred

Compensation

Earnings

($)

 

 

Other

Compensation

($)(2)

 

 

Total ($)

 

Amos Kohn

2016

 

$

234,866

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

366,409

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

36,269

 

 

$

637,564

 

Chief Executive Officer

2015

 

$

215,118

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

120,184

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

43,677

 

 

$

378,979

 

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE 
Name and principal positionYearSalary ($)Bonus ($)Stock Awards ($) (1)Option
Awards ($) (1)
All Other Compensation ($)(2)Total ($) 
 
Milton C. Ault, III2020400,000200,0000030,202630,202 
Executive Chairman of the Board2019400,00000018,832418,832 
William B. Horne2020300,000150,0000045,164495,164 
Chief Executive Officer2019300,00010,0000017,856327,856 
Henry C. Nisser2020225,000100,0000011,825336,825 
President and General Counsel (3)2019133,33350,000005,807189,140 

 

(1)

RepresentsThe values reported in the equity-based compensation expenses recorded in our consolidated financial statements for“Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns represent the year ended December 31, 2016, based upon the option’saggregate grant date fair value, on the grant date, calculatedcomputed in accordance with accounting guidance for equity-based compensation. For a discussionAccounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 718 Share Based Payments, of the assumptions used in reaching this valuation, see Note 8grants of stock options and stock awards to our consolidated financial statements fornamed executive officer in the year ended December 31, 2016.

years shown.

(2)

The amounts in "All“All Other Compensation"Compensation” consist of health insurance benefits, vehicle allowance, long-term and short-term disability insurance benefits, and 401K matching amounts.

(3)Mr. Nisser was appointed as our General Counsel and Executive Vice President on May 1, 2019. Effective October 1, 2020, Mr. Nisser’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum. Mr. Nisser was appointed as our President in January of 2021.

 

Employment Agreement with Amos KohnMilton C. Ault, III

 

On November 30, 2016, as amended on February 22, 2017,June 17, 2018, the Company entered into ana ten year executive employment agreement with Amos KohnMilton C. Ault, III, to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer with an effective date of September 22, 2016.

the Company.  For his services, Mr. KohnAult will be paid a base salary of $300,000$400,000 per annum increasing(the “Base Salary”).

Pursuant to $350,000 per annum provided thatthe terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the agreement, if the Company achieves revenuesmeets or exceeds criteria adopted by the Company’s compensation committee (the “Compensation Committee”) for earning bonuses which shall be adopted by the Compensation Committee annually, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive an annual bonus, which percentage shall be based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Compensation Committee.

Further, Mr. Ault is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of at least $10,000,000 as determined1,250 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning on January 1, 2020, provided, however, that such shares may, in accordancewhole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with U.S. GAAPthe Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”)  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the trailing four calendar quarters.applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Ault, which consent may be withheld in his discretion.


 

In addition, Mr. KohnAult shall be eligible to receive a performance-based award (the “CEO Performance Award”), provided that the Company, for any given fiscal year during the term of this agreement, meets the following criteria: (A) an increase in revenue, as calculated under GAAP over the previous fiscal year as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year; provided that any increase less than thirty-five percent (35%) (the “Revenue Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; (B) positive net income, as calculated under GAAP, as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year, provided that any increase less than five percent (5%) (the “Net Income Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; and (C) positive net cash flow from operations on a year-to-year basis, where cash flow is defined as the net amount of cash and cash-equivalents being transferred into and out of the Company. The CEO Performance Award shall consist of a number of shares of the Company’s common stock having a maximum value equal to ten percent (10%) of any appreciation in the Company’s Market Capitalization above the High Water Mark (as such terms are defined in the agreement) as measured by the daily average closing bid price of the Company’s common stock for the applicable fiscal year subject to proration obtained by the product of Revenue Percentage and the Net Income Percentage. If the CEO Performance Award in a fiscal year is less than ten percent (10%) due to a reduction caused by an annual shortfall in either the Revenue Percentage or the Net Income Percentage, the prior year’s targets would be deemed to have been achieved if a corresponding overage in a subsequent fiscal year results in the achievement of the cumulative targets.  The annual and cumulative targets for revenue and net income, which are provided solely for the purpose of establishing cumulative totals, are set forth in the agreement.

Upon termination of Mr. Ault’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Ault shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Ault’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Ault’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Ault a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four (4) weeks of base salary for each full year of service and credit for his service commencing from September 22, 2016, (B) should Mr. Ault provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, but in no event an amount greater than the Base Salary payable should either such period expire within two years, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Ault is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Ault would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Ault will be paid an amount equal to the greater of: (i) five times his then current Base Salary or (ii) the Separation Payment amount set forth above, without regard to whether Mr. Ault continues in the employ of the Company or its successor.

Employment Agreement with William B. Horne

On January 25, 2018, we entered into a five-year employment agreement with William Horne to serve as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the Company and its subsidiaries.  For his services, Mr. Horne will be paid a base salary of $250,000 per annum. Upon signing of the employment agreement, Mr. Horne is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $25,000.  In addition, Mr. Horne shall be eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’sCompany’s compensation committee after conferring withcommittee. Effective January 1, 2019, Mr. Kohn. The target amount of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus shall be 25%Horne’s salary was increased to 50% of his then annual base salary but may be greater upon mutual agreement between Mr. Kohn and the compensation committee.$300,000 per annum.

 

Further, Mr. KohnHorne is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (i) ten-year warrants to purchase 317,460a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 1,250 shares of the Company's Common Stock (the "Warrant Grant") at an exercise pricecommon stock, which shares shall vest in installments of $0.01 per share subject to vesting quarterlytwo hundred fifty (250) shares annually over twofive (5) years effectivebeginning on January 1, 2017; and (ii) ten-year options to purchase 1,000,0002019, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Company’s Common Stock atCompensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an exercise priceAnnual Report on Form 10-K with the SEC  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of $0.65 per share. The optionMr. Horne, which consent may be withheld in his discretion.

Upon termination of Mr. Horne’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Horne shall be entitled to purchase 1,000,000 sharesreceive: (i) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (ii) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Horne’s employment is terminated as a result of Common Stockhis death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Horne’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Horne a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (B) should Mr. Horne provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Horne is subjectterminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the following vesting schedule: (1)product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Horne would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Horne will be paid an amount equal to purchase 500,000 sharesfour times his Separation Payment.

Employment Agreement with Henry Nisser

On April 12, 2019, the Company entered into a four-year employment agreement (the “Agreement”) with Henry Nisser to serve as General Counsel and Executive Vice President of Common Stock shall vestthe Ault Global Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries. The effective date of the Agreement is May 1, 2019. Pursuant to the Agreement, Mr. Nisser will be paid a base salary of $200,000 per annum (the “Base Salary”). Effective October 1, 2020, Mr. Nisser’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum.

Upon the effective date of the Agreement, Mr. Nisser is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $50,000, with $25,000 being payable upon the effective date; (2) optionsdate and $25,000 being payable no later than September 1, 2019. In addition, Mr. Nisser shall be eligible to purchase 250,000receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee, which bonus shall not exceed 300% of the Base Salary.

Further, Mr. Nisser is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (A) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 6,250 (taking 1 for 40 reverse split into account) shares of Common Stockcommon stock, which shares shall vest ratably over six48 months beginning with the first month after the effective date;date, and (3) options(B) an option to purchase 250,000200,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date. As part of the grant of the options to purchase 1,000,000 shares, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 535,000 shares of Common Stock previously granted to him under the Company’s Incentive Share Option Plans.

In the event that Mr. Kohn is terminated by the Company without cause, or if Mr. Kohn resigns for good reason, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to (i) all annual salary earned prior to the termination date, any earned but unpaid portion of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus for the year preceding in which such termination occurred and any earned but unpaid paid time off; (ii) an amount equal to 100% of Mr. Kohn’s then in effect annual base salary plus an additional 1/12th of Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary for each year of employment with the Company prior to such termination; (iii) an amount equal to the average of Mr. Kohn’s two prior years’ annual bonuses (with such average not to exceed 50% of the Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary in effectcommon stock at the time of termination) prorated for the portion of the year that executive was employed; (iv) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and held by Mr. Kohn through the termination date and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn’s restricted stock shall cease; and (v) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at Company expense for a period of not less than 18 months.

If Mr. Kohn is terminated without cause, or resigns for good reason within 12 months of a change of control, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to receive: (i) payment in a lump sum of Mr. Kohn annual base salary for 24 months and any accrued, unused paid time-off; (ii) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn restricted stock shall cease; and (iii) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at the Company’s expense for a period of not less than 18 months.

Arrangement with Mr. Friedlander

On October 7, 2015 the Compensation Committee agree to pay Mr. Friedlander an annual payment of $58,000 (which includes compensation and business expenses and travel) and granted him 20,000 stock options under the 2012 Stock Option Plan. The options, which will have anper share exercise price equal to the closing market price on the effective date, which option shall have a term of seven (7) years. These options have been cancelled.

Mr. Nisser’s bonuses, if any, and all stock based compensation shall be subject to “Company Clawback Rights” if during the period that Mr. Nisser is employed by the Company and upon the termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment and for a period of two years thereafter, there is a restatement of any of the Company’s sharesfinancial results from which any bonuses and stock based compensation to Mr. Nisser shall have been determined.

Upon termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Nisser shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Nisser’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Nisser’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Nisser a “Separation Payment” as follows: (a) an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (b) commencing on the close of business on October 7, 2015, vest over a fourdate that shall be one (1) year period at 25% per year and expire 10 years from the effective date, should Mr. Nisser provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement within 30 days of grant.termination, then the Company shall pay to Mr. Friedlander does notNisser the Base Salary (in effect immediately prior to the termination date) an amount equal to the lesser of what Mr. Nisser would have received if the employment period ended after (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 18-month period commencing on the date Executive is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the separation period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an employment contract. Asamount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Nisser would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of July 6, 2017,calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months. Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Friedlander is no longer associated with the Company.Nisser will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment.

 

Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation

 

At the annual meeting of shareholdersstockholders on December 28, 2016,July 2, 2019, the shareholdersstockholders approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to the Company’sCompany’s named executive officers. In addition, shareholdersstockholders voted, on an advisory basis, that an advisory vote on executive compensation should be held every three years.

 


 

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table provides information on outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 20162020 to the Named Executive Officer.Officers.

 

 

Option Award

 

 

Stock Award

 

Name

 

Number of

securities

underlying

un exercised

options (#)

exercisable

 

 

Number of securities underlying unexercised options (#) exercisable

 

 

Equity incentive plan awards: Number of securities underlying unexercised unearned options (#)

 

 

Option

exercise

price ($)

 

 

Option

expiration date

 

 

Number of

shares or

units of

stock that

have not

vested (#)

 

 

Market value of units of stock that have not vested (#)

 

 

Equity income plan award: Number of unearned shares, units or other rights that have not vested (#)

 

 

Equity income plan awards: Market or payout value of unearned shares, units or other rights that have not vested ($)

 

Amos Kohn

  

687,500

(1) 

  

312,500

(1) 

 

 

 

 

 

$

0.65

 

 

 

9/22/27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

 

 

317,460

(2) 

 

 

 

 

 

$

0.01

 

 

9/22/27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2020
OPTION AWARDS
Name

(1)

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable

Effective September 22, 2016, Mr. Kohn was granted options to 1,000,000 sharesNumber of Common Stock at $0.65 per share. The options to purchase 1,000,000 shares
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable

Equity Incentive Plan
Awards: Number of Common Stock are subject to the following vesting schedule: (1) options to purchase 500,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest upon the effective date; (2) options to purchase 250,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over six months beginning with the first month after the effective date; and (3) options to purchase 250,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date. In connection with the grant of options to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 535,000 shares of Common Stock previously granted to him under the Company’s 2012 Plan.


Securities Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned Options (#)
Option
Exercise
Price ($)
Option
Expiration
Date

(2)

Milton C. Ault III

Represents warrants to purchase 317,460 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share subject to vesting quarterly over two years beginning January 1, 2017 granted to Mr. Kohn in connection with his employment agreement.

William B. Horne
 Henry Nisser

 

Stock Option Plans

 

Director Compensation

Beginning July 1, 2019, the Company pays each independent director an annual base amount of $35,000 annually, other than Mr. Smith, who receives a base amount of $45,000 annually due to additional services provided by Mr. Smith as a lead independent director and Mr. Ash, who receives a base amount of $45,000 annually due to additional services provided by Mr. Ash as Audit Committee Chairman. Additionally, our Board makes recommendations for adjustments to an independent director’s compensation when the level of services provided are significantly above what was anticipated.

The table below sets forth, for each non-employee director, the total amount of compensation related to his or her service during the year ended December 31, 2020:

  Fees earned orStockOptionAll other 
Name paid in cash ($)awards ($)awards ($)compensation ($)Total ($)
Robert O. Smith  70,00070,000
Jeffrey A. Bentz 60,00060,000
Mordechai Rosenberg 60,00060,000
Jodi Brichan 55,00055,000
Howard Ash (1) 38,75038,750

(1)       Mr. Ash was appointed as an independent director on August 13, 2020 and earned compensation from that date.

On December 28, 2016,2018, the shareholder approvestockholders approved the 20162018 Stock Incentive Plan (the(as amended on May 5, 2019), which amendment was approved by the stockholders on July 19, 2019, the20162018 Stock Incentive Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 4,000,00012,500, as increased to 175,000 pursuant to the foregoing amendment thereto, shares of Common Stockcommon stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants. The 20162018 Stock Incentive Plan is in addition to the Company’s current(i) 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 2,500 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, (ii) 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 5,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, and (ii) 2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “2012 Plan”), which provides for the issuance of a maximum of 1,372,6301,716 shares of the Company’s Common Stockcommon stock to be offered to the Company’s directors, officers, employees, and consultants.consultants (collectively the “Plans”).

 

The purpose of both the 2016 Stock Incentive Plan and 2012 PlanPlans is to advance the interests of the Company by providing to key employees of the Company and its affiliates, who have substantial responsibility for the direction and management of the Company, as well as certain directors and consultants of the Company, additional incentives to exert their best efforts on behalf of the Company, to increase their proprietary interest in the success of the Company, to reward outstanding performance and to provide a means to attract and retain persons of outstanding ability to the service of the Company.

 

As of December 31, 2016,2020, options to purchase 2,266,000925 shares of Common Stockcommon stock were issued and outstanding, and 3,312,6306,693 shares are available for future issuance under collectively the 2012 Plan and the 2016 Stock Incentive Plan.Plans.

 

401(k) Plan

 

WeOur subsidiaries, Coolisys and Microphase, have adopted a tax-qualified employee savings and retirement plan, or 401(k) plan, which generally covers all of ourtheir full-time employees. Pursuant to the 401(k) plan, eligible employees may make voluntary contributions to the plan up to a maximum of 5% of eligible compensation.pursuant to the current Internal Revenue Code limits. The Microphase 401(k) plan permits, but does not require, matching contributions by Digital Powerthem on behalf of plan participants. We matchThe Coolisys 401(k) plan, includes matching contributions at the rate of (1) $1.00 for each $1.00 contributed, up to 3% of the base salary and (2) $0.50 for each $1.00 contributed thereafter, up to 5% of the base salary. We are also permitted under the plan tosalary and permits make discretionary contributions. The 401(k) plan isplans are intended to qualify under Sections 401(k) and 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Contributions to such a qualified plan are deductible by the Company when made, and neither the contributions nor the income earned on those contributions is taxable to plan participants until withdrawn. All 401(k) plan contributions are credited to separate accounts maintained in trust.

 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

 

The following table sets forth certain information concerning the number of shares of our Common Stock beneficially owned beneficially based on _____________49,774,538 issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock as of the Record Date by: (i) each of our directors; (ii) each of our named executive officers; and (iii) each person known to us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock based upon Schedules 13G or 13D filed with the SEC.


 

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Other than as described in the notes to the table, we believe that all persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to shares beneficially owned by them. All share ownership figures include shares issuable upon exercise of options or warrants exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date, which are deemed outstanding and beneficially owned by such person for purposes of computing his or her percentage ownership, but not for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. 

 

The address for each of the officers and directors is c/o Digital Power Corporation, 48430 Lakeview Blvd., Fremont, California 94538-3158.

Name and address of beneficial owner Number of    
shares   Approximate
beneficially   percent
owned   of class
Greater than 5% Beneficial Owners:      

Philou Ventures, LLC

P.O. Box 3587 Tustin, CA 92705

 7,872 (2) 0.02%
Ault & Company, Inc. 1,362,795 (3) 2.74%
Directors and Officers: (1)      
Milton Ault, III 1,365,307 (4) 2.74%
William Horne 806 (7) *
Henry Nisser 4,753 (5) 0.01%
Ken Cragun 0   *
Robert Smith 54 (6) *
Mordechai Rosenberg 0   *
Jeffrey A. Bentz 9   *
Jodi Brichan 0   *
Howard Ash 0   *
Glen E. Tellock 0   *
All directors and executive officers as a group (ten persons) 1,370,929   2.75%

 

Name of beneficial owner

Shares of Common Stock

*

Percent of Common Stock

Directors and Officers:

Amos Kohn

(1)

%

Robert Smith

(2)

*

Moti Rosenberg

(3)

*

Kristine Ault

(4)

%

Milton C. Ault, III

(5)

%

William Horne

(6)

*

All directors and executive officers as a group (six persons)

%

5% or Greater Beneficial Owners:

Philou Ventures, LLC(7)

%

Less than one percent.

* Denotes less than 1%

(1)

Includes options to purchase _______(1)

Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is c/o Ault Global Holdings, Inc., 11411 Southern Heights Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

(2)Included 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock that are convertible in 2,232 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase _______ shares2,232 share of Common Stock exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.

(2)

Represents options to purchase _______shares of Common Stockcommon stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.

Also includes 3,408 shares of common stock.

(3)

Represents options(3)

Includes shares owned by Philou Ventures of which Ault & Company, Inc., is the Manager, warrants to purchase _______shares94 shares of Common Stockcommon stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.

Also includes 1,358,143 shares of common stock.

(4)

(4)

Mr. Ault is the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. Includes 7,872 shares owned by Philou Ventures ofand 1,354,923 shares owned by Ault & Company which Ms. Ault is the Manager.may be deemed beneficially owned by Mr. Ault. Also includes options469 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant and 2,043 shares of common stock.

(5)Includes 4,753 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant.

(6)Includes warrants to purchase _______shares54 shares of Common Stockcommon stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.

(5)

Mr. Ault is the spouse of Kristine Ault. Includes _______shares owned by Philou Ventures which may be deemed beneficially owned by Mr. Ault.

(6)

Represents options to purchase _______ shares of Common Stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Record Date.

(7)

The address of Philou Ventures is P.O. Box 3587 Tustin, CA 92705

 

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The following table sets forth certain information as of December 31, 2016, with respect to compensation plans under which the Company’s equity securities are authorized for issuance:

Plan Category

 

Number of securities to be

issued upon exercise of

outstanding options,
warrants and rights

(A)

  

Weighted-average

exercise price of

outstanding options,
warrants and rights

(B)

  

Number of securities remaining available for

future issuance under equity compensation

plans (excluding securities reflected in column

A)(2)

(C)

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders(1)

  

2,256,000

  

$

0.83

   

3,322,630

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

  

317,460

  

$

0.01

    

Total

  

2,573,460

   

 

   

3,322,630

(7)Includes 750 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant.

 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

Our Audit Committee or in certain instances, a special committee of our board of directors, monitors and reviews issues involving potential conflicts of interest and approves all transactions with related persons as defined in Item 404 of Regulation S-K under the securities laws. Examples of such transactions that must be approved by our Audit Committee or a special committee of our board of directors include, but are not limited to any transaction, arrangement, relationship (including any indebtedness) in which:

the aggregate amount involved is determined to by the Audit Committee to be material;

we are a participant; and

any of the following has or will have a direct or indirect interest in the transaction:

an executive officer, director, or nominee for election as a director;

a greater than five percent beneficial owner of our common stock; or

any immediate family member of the foregoing.

When reviewing transactions with a related person, the Audit Committee or any special committee of our board of directors formed for that purpose applies the standards for evaluating conflicts of interest outlined in our written Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.

 

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our shareholder of directors during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016. Prior to September 22, 2016, Telkoor was our largest shareholder and Telkoor’s Chief Executive Officer, Benzi Diamant, was our Chairman of the Board. Effective September 22, 2016, Telkoor sold all of its shares of Common Stock of the Company to Philou Ventures, and as a result, Philou Ventures is our largest shareholder. Philou Ventures’ Manager is Kristine L. Ault, one of ourstockholders or directors. Ms. Ault is the spouse of Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Executive Chairman, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc.

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our stockholders or directors. Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board.Board, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc.

Ault & Company, Inc.

On December 23, 2019, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement whereby Ault & Company, Inc. would purchase an aggregate of 660,667 shares of our common stock at a purchase price per share of $1.12, subject to the approval of the NYSE American, for a total purchase price of $739,948. The purchase was authorized by the NYSE American on January 15, 2020. As a result, at the closing on January 15, 2020, Ault & Company became the beneficial owner of 666,945 shares of Common Stock, or up to 19.99% of our common stock then outstanding.

On February 5, 2020, we sold and issued an 8% Convertible Promissory Note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Note”) to Ault & Company, Inc. The principal amount of the Note, plus any accrued and unpaid interest at a rate of 8% per annum, was due and payable on August 5, 2020. The Note is convertible into shares of our common stock, par value $0.001 per share at a conversion price of $1.45 per share. On August 20, 2020, the Company issued 413,793 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $600,000 in principal. On May 12, 2021, the Company issued 275,862 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $400,000 in principal.

 


Telkoor Telecom, Ltd.Milton C. Ault, III, our Executive Chairman, is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. William B. Horne, our Chief Executive Officer, Vice Chairman and Director, is also Chief Financial Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. Henry Nisser, our President, General Counsel and a member of our board of directors, is also the President, General Counsel and a director of Ault & Company, Inc.

 

As previously disclosed, onAvalanche International Corp.

On September 5, 2016,6, 2017, we entered into a securities purchase agreementLoan and Security Agreement with Philou Ventures, and TelkoorAvalanche (as amended, the “AVLP Loan Agreement”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017 pursuant to which Telkoor agreedwe will provide Avalanche a non-revolving credit facility. The AVLP Loan Agreement was recently increased to up to $15,000,000 and extended to December 31, 2023.

 At December 31, 2020, we had provided Avalanche with $11,269,136 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase all of Telkoor’s 2,714,61022,537,871 shares of Avalanche common stock. Under the Common Stock in the Company, constituting approximately 40.06%terms of the then Company’s outstanding sharesAVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by Avalanche are secured by the assets of Common Stock. In considerationAvalanche. As of December 31, 2020, we recorded contractual interest receivable attributed to the AVLP Loan Agreement of $2,025,475 and a provision for such shares, Philou agreed to pay Telkoor $1.5 million.

Inloan losses of $3,423,608. The warrants issued in conjunction with the securitiesnon-revolving credit facility entitles us to purchase agreement, we entered into a rescission agreement with Telkoor in orderup to resolve all financial issues between the parties, including the repurchase by Telkoor of 1,136,66622,537,871 shares of Common StockAvalanche common stock at an exercise price of Telkoor beneficially owned by us for book value.

Finally, as part of the securities purchase agreement, we have agreed to pay Mr. Diamant $7,500$0.50 per share for a period of eighteen months from September 5, 2016, for consulting services.

Relationship with Telkoor Power Supplies Ltd.

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we purchased approximately $0 and $594,000, respectively, of products from Telkoor Power Supplies, Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of our largest then shareholder, Telkoor, of which Ben-Zion Diamant was the Chief Executive Officer and its controlling shareholder. We had no written agreement for the purchase of these products, other than purchase orders that are placed in the ordinary course of business when the products are needed. In January 2016, Telkoor sold its commercial intellectual property to Advice Electronics Ltd. As a result, of that date no further orders have been placed with Telkoor.

Purchase of IP by Digital Power Limited (DPL) from Telkoor Power Supplies (TPS)

On August 25, 2010, we and our wholly-owned subsidiary, DPL, entered into an agreement with TPS, a wholly-owned subsidiary of our largest then shareholder, Telkoor , of which Mr. Diamant is the Chief Executive Officer and controlling shareholder. Pursuant to such agreement, (1) TPS sold, assigned and conveyed to DPL all of its rights, title and interest in and to the intellectual property associated with the Compact Peripheral Component Interface 600 W AC/DC power supply series (the “Assets”) and (2) DPL granted to TPS an irrevocable license to sell the Assets in Israel on an exclusive basis. In consideration for the purchase of the Assets, DPL paid TPS $480,000.five years. The consideration for the license provided to TPS to sell the Assets in Israel is a royalty fee of 15% of TPS’s direct production costs of sales, due on a quarterly basis. In accordance with the agreement, the consideration for the IP may be reduced over a four-year period in the event annual sales for each year between 2011 and 2014 are less than a fixed threshold of units on an annual basis based upon an offset value per unit as described in the agreement. If there is a shortfall in sale of units in one annual period and in the subsequent period we sell more than the fixed unit threshold, this difference will be offset from any reduced consideration in any annual periods between 2011 and 2014. As a result of lower than anticipated sales by our DPL subsidiary of the Compact Peripheral Component Interface 600W AC/DC power supply series (CPCI 600W) through 2013, we amended our agreement with Telkoor (effective January 1, 2014 for the duration of the original agreement or until the shortfall of CPCI 600W product sales will be offset) to include additional products in addition to the original CPCI 600W product. As of December 31, 2015, the shortfall of sales of CPCI 600W products is greater than the outstanding royalties due. In January 2016, Telkoor sold its assets, including its subsidiary TPS, to Advice Electronics Ltd. Following this asset sale, the IP agreement between the Company and Telkoor was terminated.

Acquisition of Shares of Telkoor

On June 16, 2011 we acquired 1,136,666 shares of Telkoor, a then major shareholder of the Company which was listed on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, for $0.88 (NIS 3) per share, which represented 8.8% of the outstanding shares of Telkoor. As a result of this transaction, an existing manufacturing agreement between Digital Power and Telkoor was updated and extended. Until September 30, 2012 the investment was accounted for as an available-for-sale investment and then reclassified the accounting of the investment at cost less accumulated impairments derived from independent appraisals or available market valuations. As of December 31, 2105 the shares represented 8.4% of the outstanding shares of Telkoor which have since de-listed from the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.

On September 22, 2016, the Company sold such shares back to Telkoor for $90,000.


Manufacturing Agreements with Telkoor and Advice Electronics Ltd.

On December 31, 2012, we entered into a Manufacturing Rights Agreement (the “Manufacturing Agreement”) with Telkoor, pursuant to which among other things, Telkoor granted us the non-exclusive right to directly place purchase orders for certain products from third party manufacturers for the purpose of marketing, selling and distributing the products for telecom, industrial, medical and military market segments in North and South America in consideration for the payment of royalty fees by us to Telkoor. The royalty fees paid by us to Telkoor under the Manufacturing Agreement are between 5% and 25%, depending on the product. The Manufacturing Agreement has a term of five years from the date of signature. During the agreement, Telkoor agreed not to directly or indirectly participate or engage, or assist any other party in engaging or preparing to engage, our customers in North and South America in connection with the sale or distribution of any of the products under the Manufacturing Agreement.

In January 2016, Telkoor sold all its commercial IP to Advice Electronics Ltd. (“Advice”), an Israeli company. As part of the agreement with Advice, we entered into a new agreement with Advice, according to which our manufacturing rights for certain Telkoor products will be granted to us through August 2017 against royalty payments to Advice, after which we will be entitled to distribute the products under our branding until December 2020. The term of the agreement with Advice has been extended through August 1, 2018.

Avalanche International, Corp.

During the quarter ended December 31, 2016, Avalanche International, Corp. (“Avalanche”) issued to the Company two $525,000 12% Convertible Promissory Notes, with identical terms, dated October 5, 2016 and November 30, 2016. In consideration for the issuance of the Notes, the Company loaned $1,000,000 to Avalanche of which $950,000 was funded as of December 31, 2016, and the remaining $50,000 was funded on February 17, 2016. The Notes, in the aggregate principal amount of $1,050,000, include an original issue discount of $50,000. The Notes accrue simple interest at 12% per annum and are convertible into shares of Avalanche Common Stock at $0.74536 per share.

At any time after six months from the date of the Notes, the Company may convert the principal and interest into shares of Avalanche Common Stock. The conversionexercise price of the Notes$0.50 is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The Notes contain standard and customary events of default including, but not limited to failure to make payments when due under the Notes and bankruptcywarrants may be exercised for cash or insolvency of Avalanche.

On February 22, 2017, subsequent to year-end, Avalanche issued the Companyon a third $525,000 12% Convertible Promissory Note (the “Third Note”). During the period from February 22, 2017 to March 3, 2017, the Company funded $172,371 pursuant to this Third Note.

Avalanche is a holding company which on March 3, 2017, entered into a share exchange agreement with MTIX and the three shareholders of MTIX. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the share exchange agreement, Avalanche will acquire MTIX from the sellers through the transfer of all issued and outstanding ordinary shares of MTIX by the sellers to Avalanche. MTIX has developed a cost effective and environment friendly material synthesis technology for textile applications utilizing the proprietary MLSE™ system which uses a combination of high voltage plasma and laser energy to imbue fabrics with desirable technical characteristics. On March 15, 2017, the Company announced that it had entered into a $50 million purchase order with MTIX to manufacture, install and service fabric treatment machines that utilize MTIX’s proprietary MLSE™ system.cashless basis.

 

Milton C. Ault, III and William Horne, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, respectively, and two of our directors are directors of Avalanche. In addition, based on Avalanche’s Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2015, Philou Ventures, of which Ault & Company, Inc., is the largest shareholderManager, is the controlling stockholder of Avalanche. Philou Ventures is our largest shareholder, and Kristine L.Mr. Ault Milton C. Ault, III’s spouse, is the managerExecutive Chairman of Philou Ventures.Avalanche. Further, our President, General Counsel and one of our directors, is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Avalanche.

 


PROPOSALSPROPOSALS OF SHAREHOLDERSSTOCKHOLDERS FOR THE 20182022 ANNUAL MEETING

 

If you want to submit a proposal for inclusion in our proxy statement for the 20182022 Annual Meeting of shareholders,stockholders, you may do so by following the procedures in Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act. To be eligible for inclusion, shareholderstockholder proposals (other than nominees for directors) must be received at the Company’s principal executive office, at the following address 48430 Lakeview Blvd., Fremont, California 94538-3158,11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141, Attention: Corporate Secretary, no later than _________, 2017________ __, 2022 (120 days before the anniversary of this year’s mailing date).

 

A shareholder’sstockholder’s notice to the Secretary must set forth as to each matter the shareholderstockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting: (i) a description in reasonable detail of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting, (ii) the name and address, as they appear on the Company’s books, of the shareholderstockholder proposing such business and of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, (iii) such information regarding each director nominee or each matter of business to be proposed by such shareholderstockholder as would be required to be included in a proxy statement filed pursuant to the proxy rules of the U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, had the nominee been nominated, or intended to be nominated, or the matter been proposed, or intended to be proposed by the Board; (iv) if applicable, the consent of each nominee to be named in the proxy statement and to serve as director of the Company if so elected; (v) the class and number of shares of the Company that are owned beneficially and of record by the shareholderstockholder proposing such business and by the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, and (vi) any material interest of such shareholderstockholder proposing such business and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made in such business.

 

Shareholder Stockholder proposals intended to be presented at the 20182022 Annual Meeting must be received by the Company no later than reasonable time in advance of the date of the 20182022 Annual Meeting, which in the Company’s opinion would be no less than 120 days before that date (pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act) to be eligible for inclusion in the Company’s proxy statement and form of proxy for next year’s meeting. The Company has yet to determine the date of its 20182022 Annual Meeting. Proposals should be addressed to Digital Power Corporation,Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 48430 Lakeview Blvd., Fremont, California 94538-3158.11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

 

For any proposal that is not submitted for inclusion in next year’syear’s proxy statement (as described in the preceding paragraph), but is instead sought to be presented directly at the 20182022 Annual Meeting, the federal securities laws require ShareholdersStockholders to give advance notice of such proposals. The required notice must (pursuant to Rule 14a-4 of the Exchange Act), be given no less than a reasonable time in advance of the date of the 20182022 Annual Meeting, which in the Company’s opinion would be no less than 45 days before that date. The Company has yet to determine the date of its 20182022 Annual Meeting. Any such notice must be provided to Digital Power Corporation,Ault Global Holdings, Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 48430 Lakeview Blvd., Fremont, California 94538-3158.11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141. If a shareholderstockholder fails to provide timely notice of a proposal to be presented at the 20182022 Annual Meeting, the chairman of the meeting will declare it out of order and disregard any such matter.

 

OTHER BUSINESS

 

The Board knows of no business to be brought before the Annual Meeting other than as set forth above. If other matters properly come before the shareholdersstockholders at the meeting,Annual Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named on the proxy to vote the shares represented thereby on such matters in accordance with their judgment.

 

By Order of the Board of Directors,

 

/s/ Amos Kohn

Amos Kohn

Chief Executive Officer and President

 /s/ Milton C. Ault, III
Milton C. Ault, III
Executive Chairman of the Board

 

___________, 2017June __, 2021

Appendix A


Appendix A

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

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

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2020

 

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016

or

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

For the transition period from ___________ to __________

Commission File Numberfile number 1-12711

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATIONAULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

California

Delaware

94-1721931

(State or other jurisdiction of

Incorporation incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. (I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

Number)

 

48430 Lakeview Blvd, Fremont, California 94538-3158

(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

510-657-2635

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240,

Las Vegas, NV

89141(949) 444-5464
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

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

 

Title of Each Class

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, no$0.001 par value

per share

NYSE MKT

American

 

Securities registered pursuant tounder Section 12(g) of the Act:     None

 

Title of Each Class

None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes  ¨No  þ

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.

Yes  ¨No  þ

 

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 monthsyear (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  þNo  ¨

 


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes  þNo 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ☐¨

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer ☐¨

Accelerated filer ☐¨

Non-accelerated filer ☐ (do not check if a smaller reporting company)¨

Smaller reporting company ☑þ

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 has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes  ¨No  þ

 

As of June 30, 2016,2020, the aggregate market value of the votingregistrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $1,601,000$13,335,311 based uponon the closing sale price of the common stockas reported on the NYSE MKT onAmerican of $2.45. Such determination should not be deemed an admission that date. Shares of common stock held by each officer and director and by each person who ownsthe registrant’s directors, officers, or 10% or morebeneficial owners are, in fact, affiliates of the outstanding common stock have been excluded in that such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.registrant.

 

As of April 5, 2017, the number ofThere were 49,498,676 shares of common stock outstanding was 9,216,853.as of April 14, 2021.

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

None.Documents incorporated by reference: None

 


 


AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

FORM 10-K

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

INDEX

 

Page No.

Forward-Looking Statements

PART I

A-4

Item 1.

Description of Business1

PART I

Item 1A.

Risk Factors
20

Item 1.

1B.

Description of Business.

A-4

Unresolved Staff Comments
47

Item 1A.

2.

Risk Factors.

A-11

Properties
47

Item 1B.

3.

Unresolved Staff Comments.

A-19

Legal Proceedings
48

Item 2.

4.

Description of Property.

A-19

Mine Safety Disclosures
51

Item 3.

PART II

Legal Proceedings.

A-20

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures.

A-20

PART II

Item 5.

Market for Registrant’sRegistrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

Securities

A-20

51

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data.

Data

A-21

52

Item 7.

Management’s

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Operations

A-21

53

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

A-27

64

Item 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

A-27

F-1 – F-64

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements Withwith Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

Disclosure

A-27

64

Item 9B.

9A.

Other Information

A-29

Controls and Procedures
64

Item 9B.

Other Information
67

PART III

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

Governance

A-29

67

Item 11.

Executive Compensation.

Compensation

A-34

73

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

Matters

A-38

78

Item 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

Independence

A-39

79

Item 14.

Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

Services

A-42

80

PART IV

PART IV

Item 15.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

A-43

82
Item 16.Form 10-K Summary85
Signatures86

 



 

Forward Looking StatementNOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

As used in this annual report, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” “Company,” “Digital,” or “Digital Power,” mean Digital Power Corporation, a California corporation, and its subsidiaries unless otherwise indicated.

The following information should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto located elsewhere in thisThis Annual Report on Form 10-K. This10-K (the “Annual Report and in particular “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,) contains "forward-looking statements"forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this report,1933, and Section 21E of the words "believes," "anticipates," "intends," "expects," "plans," "should," "will," "seeks" and wordsSecurities Exchange Act of similar import1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. We have attempted to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks,by terminology including “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “potential,” “predict,” “should” or “will” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions; uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels or activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by suchthese forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others,Although we believe that the following: our historyexpectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of net losses; our intent to develop business in new areas and markets, our dependence on third parties, including Advice Electronics Ltd., to design certain of our standard products; the possible limits of our strategic focus on our power supply component competencies; our dependence on a few major customers; uncertainty of market acceptance of our products; the effectsactivity, performance or achievements. Our expectations are as of the ongoing slowdown affecting world financial markets;date this Annual Report is filed, and we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date this Annual Report is filed to confirm these statements to actual results, unless required by law.

This Annual Report also contains estimates and other factors referenced in "Risk Factors"statistical data made by independent parties and by us relating to market size and growth and other sectionsindustry data. This data involves a number of this Annual Report. Given these uncertainties,assumptions and limitations, and you are cautioned not to placegive undue reliance onweight to such forward-looking statements.estimates. We assume no obligationhave not independently verified the statistical and other industry data generated by independent parties and contained in this Annual Report and, accordingly, we cannot guarantee their accuracy or completeness, though we do generally believe the data to update these forward-looking statementsbe reliable. In addition, projections, assumptions and estimates of our future performance and the future performance of the industries in which we operate are necessarily subject to reflect actuala high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of factors, including those described in “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report. These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the estimates made by the independent parties and by us.

RISK FACTOR SUMMARY

Below is a summary of the principal factors that make an investment in our common stock speculative. This summary does not address all of the risks that we face. Additional discussion of the risks summarized in this risk factor summary, and other risks that we face, can be found below under the heading “Risk Factors” and should be carefully considered, together with other information in this Annual Report and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or changes in factors or assumptions affecting such forward-looking statements.SEC, before making investment decisions regarding our common stock.

·We will need to raise additional capital to fund our operations in furtherance of our business plan.

·We face business disruption and related risks resulting from the outbreak of COVID-19, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations and curtail our ability to raise financing.

·We have an evolving business model, which increases the complexity of our business.

·We received an order and a subpoena from the Commission in the investigation now known as “In the Matter of DPW Holdings, Inc.,” the consequences of which are unknown.

·If we make any additional acquisitions, they may disrupt or have a negative impact on our business.

·Our growth strategy is subject to a significant degree of risk.

·We are heavily dependent on our senior management, and a loss of a member of our senior management team could cause our stock price to suffer.

·If we fail to anticipate and adequately respond to rapid technological changes in our industry, including evolving industry-wide standards, in a timely and cost-effective manner, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

·We depend upon a few major customers for a majority of our revenues, and the loss of any of these customers, or the substantial reduction in the quantity of products that they purchase from us, would significantly reduce our revenues and net income.

·If we do not continue to satisfy the NYSE American continued listing requirements, our common stock could be delisted from NYSE American.

·Our common stock price is volatile.

 

PART I

 

ITEM 1.

Business.

BUSINESS

 

General

 

We areAult Global Holdings, Inc., a growth company seeking to increase our revenues through acquisitions. Our strategy reflects our management and Board’s current philosophy that occurredDelaware corporation formerly known as a result of a change in control completedDPW Holdings (“Ault Global,” the “Company” or “we”), was incorporated in September 2016. Our acquisition and development target strategy includes companies that have developed2017. The Company is a “new way of doing business”diversified holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in, mature, well-developed industries experiencing changes due to new technology; companies that may become profitable or more profitable through efficiency and reduction of costs; companies that are related to our core business inamong others, the following operating businesses: commercial and defense industries;solutions, commercial lending and companiesadvanced textile technology. The Company’s direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries include Gresham Worldwide, Inc. (“GWW”), Coolisys Technologies Corp. (“Coolisys”), Digital Power Corporation, Gresham Power Electronics Ltd. (f/k/a Digital Power Limited) (“Gresham Power”), Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd (“Enertec”), Relec Electronics Ltd., Digital Power Lending, LLC (“DP Lending”), Ault Alliance, Inc. (“Ault Alliance”), and Tansocial LLC (“Tansocial”). The Company also has a controlling interest in Microphase Corporation (“Microphase”) and Ault Alliance has a controlling interest in and Alliance Cloud Services, LLC (“ACS”). Ault Global Holdings was founded by Milton “Todd” Ault III, its Executive Chairman and is led by Mr. Ault, William B. Horne, its Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman and Henry Nisser, its President and General Counsel. Together, they constitute the Executive Committee, which manages the day-to-day operations of the holding company. The Company’s long-term objective is to maximize per share intrinsic value. All major investment and capital allocation decisions are made for the Company by Mr. Ault and the Executive Committee. The Company has three reportable segments:

·GWW – defense solutions with operations conducted by Microphase, Enertec, Gresham Power and Relec,

·Coolisys – commercial electronics solutions with operations conducted by Digital Power Corporation, and

·Ault Alliance – commercial lending through DP Lending, data center operations through ACS, digital marketing through Tansocial and digital learning.

We operate as a holding company with operations conducted primarily through our subsidiaries. We conduct our activities in a manner so as not to be deemed an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”). Generally, this means that we do not invest or intend to invest in securities as our primary business and that no more than 40% of our total assets will enhance our overall revenues. Itbe invested in investment securities, as that term is our goal to substantially increase our gross revenuesdefined in the near future.Investment Company Act. Pursuant to the Investment Company Act, companies such as our subsidiary DP Lending are excluded from the definition of an investment company since its business consists of making small loans and industrial banking. We also maintain a considerable investment in Avalanche International, Corp., which does business as MTIX International.

 

WeOriginally, we were originallyprimarily a solution-driven organization that designs, develops, manufacturesdesigned, developed, manufactured and sellssold high-grade customized and flexible power system solutions for the medical, military, telecom and industrial markets. Although we intend toactively seek growth through acquisitions, we will also continue to focus on high-grade and custom product designs for the commercial, medical and military/defense markets, where customers demand high density, high efficiency and ruggedized products to meet the harshest and/or military mission critical operating conditions.

 

We also have operations located in Europe through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Gresham Power Electronics (f/k/a Digital Power Limited ("DPL"Limited) (“Gresham Power), located in Salisbury, England, which operates under the brand name of “GreshamEngland. Gresham Power Electronics” (“Gresham”). DPL designs, manufactures and sells power products and system solutions mainly for the European marketplace, including power conversion, power distribution equipment, DC/AC (Direct Current/Active Current) inverters and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) products. Our European defense business is specialized in the field of naval power distribution products.

On November 30, 2016, we formed DP Lending, a wholly-owned subsidiary. DP Lending provides commercial loans to companies throughout the United States to provide them with operating capital to finance the growth of their businesses. The loans range in duration from six months to three years, DP Lending loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Financing Law license (Lic.no. 60 DBO77905).

On June 2, 2017, we purchased 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation (“Microphase”). Microphase is a design-to-manufacture original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) industry leader delivering world-class radio frequency (“RF”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“DLVA”) to the military, aerospace and telecommunications industries. Microphase is headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut.

On January 7, 2020, we formed Coolisys Technologies Corp. (“Coolisys”), a wholly-owned subsidiary. Coolisys operates its existing businesses in the customized and flexible power system solutions for the automotive, medical, military, telecom, commercial and industrial markets, other than the European markets, which are primarily served by Gresham Power.

On September 1, 2017, Digital Power Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“DPC”), a subsidiary of Coolisys since January 20, 2020, acquired all of the outstanding membership interests in Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Power-Plus”). Power-Plus is an industrial distributor of value added power supply solutions, UPS systems, fans, filters, line cords, and other power-related components. In addition to its current business, Power-Plus will serve as an extended sales organization for our overall flexible power system solutions.

On December 31, 2017, Coolisys Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“CTI”) entered into a share purchase agreement with Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. (“MICT”), a Delaware corporation, Enertec Management Ltd., an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of MICT (“EML”), and Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd. (“Enertec”), an Israeli corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of EML, pursuant to which CTI acquired Enertec. Enertec is Israel’s largest private manufacturer of specialized electronic systems for the military market. On May 23, 2018, CTI completed its acquisition of Enertec.

In January 2018, we formed Super Crypto Mining, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, which changed its name to Digital Farms, Inc. (“DFI”) on January 18, 2019. DFI was established to operate our newly formed cryptocurrency business, which is pursuing a variety of digital currency. We used to mine the top three cryptocurrencies for our own account. These cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Litecoin and Ethereum. DFI’s operations were discontinued in the first quarter of 2020. 

On May 23, 2018, DP Lending entered into and closed a securities purchase agreement with I. AM, Inc. (“I. AM”), David J. Krause and Deborah J. Krause. Pursuant to the securities purchase agreement, I. AM sold to DP Lending, 981 shares of common stock for a purchase price of $981, representing, upon the closing, 98.1% of I. AM’s outstanding common stock. I.AM owed DP Lending $1,715,330 in outstanding principal, pursuant to a loan and security agreement, between I. AM and DP Lending. The purchase agreement provides that, as I. AM repays the outstanding loan to DP Lending in accordance with the loan agreement, DP Lending will on a pro rata basis transfer shares of common stock of I. AM to David J. Krause, up to an aggregate of 471 shares. I. AM’s operations were discontinued in the first quarter of 2020. 

Gresham Worldwide, Inc. was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on November 21, 2018 as DPW Technologies Group, Inc. and effected a name change on December 6, 2019.

On November 30, 2020, we acquired Relec, a privately held company based in Wareham, the United Kingdom. The transaction was structured as a stock purchase under which we paid approximately $4,000,000 with additional contingent cash payments up to approximately $665,000 based on Relec’s future financial performance. The acquisition of Relec has enhanced our presence in industrial and transportation markets in the United Kingdom and Europe and considerably broadened our product portfolio, including high-quality power conversion and display product offerings. Relec specializes in AC-DC power supplies, DC-DC converters, displays and EMC filters.

On January 29, 2021, Alliance Cloud Services, LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ault Alliance, closed on the acquisition of a 617,000 square foot energy-efficient facility located on a 34.5 acre site in southern Michigan for a purchase price of $3,991,497. The purchase price was paid by the Company using its own working capital.

 

We are a CaliforniaDelaware corporation, initially formed in California in 1969 and reincorporated in Delaware in 2017. We are located in the heart of the Silicon Valley at 48430 Lakeview Blvd, Fremont, California 94538-3158.11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141. Our phone number is 510-657-2635(949) 444-5464 and our website address is www.digipwr.com.www.aultglobal.com.

 


Recent Events– Change of Control

 

On SeptemberJanuary 19, 2021, the Company changed its name from DPW Holdings, Inc., to Ault Global Holdings, Inc. (the “Name Change”). The Name Change was effected through a parent/subsidiary short form merger pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated January 7, 2021. Neither the merger nor resulting Name Change affected the rights of security holders of the Company. The Company’s common stock continues to be quoted on the NYSE American under the symbol “DPW.” Existing stock certificates that reflect the Company’s prior corporate name will continue to be valid. Certificates reflecting the new corporate name will be issued in due course as old stock certificates are tendered for exchange or transfer to the Company’s transfer agent. Concurrently with the change in our name, Milton C. Ault, III was appointed as our Executive Chairman, William B. Horne was appointed as our Chief Executive Officer and remains as Vice Chairman of our board of directors, and Henry Nisser was appointed as our President and remains as our General Counsel.

Commencing in October of 2019 and continuing through February of 2020, the Company reorganized its corporate structure pursuant to a series of transactions by and among the Company and its directly and indirectly owned subsidiaries. The purpose of the reorganization was to align the Company’s various businesses by the products and services that constitute the majority of each subsidiaries’ revenues. As a result of the foregoing transactions, the Company’s corporate structure is as follows:

 

On December 23, 2019, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement whereby Ault & Company, Inc. would purchase an aggregate of 660,667 shares of Common Stock at a purchase price per share of $1.12, subject to the approval of the NYSE American, for a total purchase price of $739,948. The purchase was authorized by the NYSE American on January 15, 2020. As a result, at the closing on January 15, 2020, Ault & Company became the beneficial owner of 666,945 shares of Common Stock, or up to 19.99% of the Common Stock then outstanding.

On February 5, 2016,2020, we sold and issued an 8% Convertible Promissory Note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Note”) to Ault & Company, Inc. The principal amount of the Note, plus any accrued and unpaid interest at a rate of 8% per annum, shall be due and payable on August 5, 2020. The Note shall be convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”) at a conversion price of $1.45 per share, subject to the approval of the Company’s stockholders at a special meeting thereof, as required by Rule 713(a)(ii) of the NYSE Company Guide, and subsequently, authorization from the NYSE American.

On February 10, 2020, we entered into a Master Exchange Agreement (the “Master Exchange Agreement”) with Esousa Holdings, LLC (“Esousa” or the “Creditor”) that acquired approximately $4.2 million in principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of certain promissory notes that had been previously issued by us to Dominion Capital, LLC, a Connecticut limited liability company (the “Dominion Note”) and the Canadian Special Opportunity Fund, LP (the “CSOF Note” and with the Dominion Note, the “Esousa Purchased Notes”) in separate transactions. The Creditor also agreed to purchase additional notes up to an additional principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of $3.5 million (the “Additional Notes” and collectively, with the Esousa Purchased Notes, the “Notes”). Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, the Creditor has the unilateral right to acquire shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Exchange Shares”) in exchange for the Notes, which Notes evidence an aggregate of up to approximately $7.7 million of indebtedness of the Company. In aggregate, we have issued to Esousa a total of 8,332,904 Exchange Shares.

The first exchange occurred on the date of the Master Exchange Agreement when the Creditor exchanged a portion of the Esousa Purchased Notes for the Exchange Shares and the second exchange began July 8, 2020 when the Company received stockholder approval at a special meeting thereof for the Exchange of the Esousa Additional Purchased Notes for the Company’s common stock, and subsequently, authorization from the NYSE American.

On March 4, 2020, pursuant to the terms of the securities purchase agreement for the sale of the Dominion short-term promissory note, the Company issued to Dominion 12,500 shares of its common stock (see Note 17).

On April 13, 2020, the Company issued a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 with an interest rate of 10% per annum and a five-year warrant to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock equal to 50% of the number of shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the convertible promissory note, at an exercise price equal to $1.17 per share of common stock.

On May 28, 2020, the Company entered into a securities purchase and exchange agreement with Philou Ventures, LLC (“Philou Ventures”),an institutional investor. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company exchanged a Wyoming limited liability company,12% short-term promissory note in the principal amount of $235,796 for a new note due and Telkoor Telecom Ltd.,payable on June 30, 2020 (the “Exchanged Note”) that would become convertible into common stock of the Company should the Company be in default under the terms of the Exchanged Note. In addition, pursuant to the agreement, the Company issued to the investor a note due and payable on November 28, 2020 in the principal amount of $200,000 that became convertible into the Company’s common stock commencing June 30, 2020 with an Israeli company (“Telkoor”original issue discount of twenty percent (20%). In conjunction with the issuance of the Convertible Note, the Company also issued to the investor a warrant to purchase an aggregate of 400,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $1.07.

On June 26, 2020, the Company issued to several institutional investors unsecured 12% short-term promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $800,000 and seventeen month warrants to purchase an aggregate of 361,991 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $2.43 per share of common stock.

On August 5, 2020, the Company received $2,000,000 from Esousa and on October 22, 2020, the Company issued to Esousa a promissory note in the principal face amount of $2,000,000, with an interest rate of 13%.

On August 20, 2020, the Company issued 413,793 shares of its common stock upon the conversion of $600,000 in principal on the Ault & Company Convertible Note.

Between August 2020 and October 2020, the Company also received $3,200,000 in loans from Esousa pursuant to which the Philou VenturesCompany agreed to issue unsecured short-term promissory notes with interest rates of 13% and 14% and warrants with terms of approximately one and a half years to purchase allan aggregate of Telkoor’s 2,714,6101,303,863 shares of the common stock in the Company, constituting approximately 40.06%Common Stock at an average exercise price of the Company’s then outstanding$2.70 per share of Common Stock.

On October 2, 2020, we entered into an At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with Ascendiant Capital Markets, LLC to sell shares of common stock. In consideration for suchstock having an aggregate offering price of up to $8,975,000 from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “2020 ATM Offering”). On December 1, 2020, we filed an amendment to the prospectus supplement with the SEC to increase the amount of common stock that may be offered and sold in the ATM Offering, as amended under the Sales Agreement to $40,000,000 in the aggregate, inclusive of the up to $8,975,000 in shares Philou Ventures agreedof common stock previously sold in the 2020 ATM Offering. The offer and sale of shares of common stock from the 2020 ATM Offering was made pursuant to pay Telkoor $1.5 million. On September 22, 2016,our effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) which became effective on January 11, 2018. Through December 31, 2020, we had received gross proceeds of $39,978,350 through the sale between Telkoor and Philou Ventures closed and Philou Ventures becameof 12,582,000 shares of common stock from the 2020 ATM Offering. The 2020 ATM Offering was terminated on December 31, 2020.

On October 26, 2020, the Company announced that it had successfully converted all of its secured debt, totaling just under $5 million, to equity thus improving the Company’s largest shareholder with Telkoor no longer being associated withnet equity.

On November 2, 2020, I.AM, Inc. filed a voluntary petition for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 in the Company. Further,United States Bankruptcy Court in conjunction therewith, Messrs. Israel Levi, Haim Yatim,the Central District of California, Santa Ana Division, case number 8:20-bk-13076.

Settlement of Derivative Litigation

On February 24, 2020, we entered into a definitive settlement agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) intended to settle the previously disclosed derivative litigation captioned Ethan Young and Ben-Zion Diamant resigned fromGreg Young, Derivatively on Behalf of Nominal Defendant, DPW Holdings, Inc. v. Milton C. Ault, III, Amos Kohn, William B. Horne, Jeff Bentz, Mordechai Rosenberg, Robert O. Smith, and Kristine Ault and DPW Holdings, Inc., as the nominal defendant (Case No. 18-cv-6587) (as amended on March 11, 2019, the “Amended Complaint”) against the Company and certain of its officers and directors pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (the “Court”). As previously disclosed, the Amended Complaint alleges violations including breaches of fiduciary duties and unjust enrichment claims based on the previously pled transactions.

On April 15, 2020, the Court issued an Order (the “Order”) approving a Motion for Preliminary Approval of Settlement in the Derivative Action. On July 16, 2020, the Court issued an Order (the “Final Order”) approving a Motion for Final Approval of Settlement in the Derivative Action filed against DPW as a Nominal Defendant and its directors who served on its board of directors on July 31, 2018 who were not dismissed from the action as a result of the Court’s partial grant of the Motion.

On July 16, 2020, the Court entered a Judgement based upon the Final Order.

Under the terms of the Final Order approving the Agreement, the Board shall adopt and/or maintain resolutions and amendments to committee charters and/or the Company’s bylaws to ensure adherence to certain corporate governance policies (collectively, the “Reforms”), which shall remain in effect for no less than five (5) years, subject to any of the following: (a) a determination by a majority of the independent directors that the Reform is no longer in the best interest of the Company, andincluding, but not limited to, due to circumstances making the remaining members of the board of directors ofReform no longer applicable, feasible, or available on commercially reasonable terms, or (b) modifications which the Company consistingreasonably believes are required by applicable law or regulation.

In connection with the Settlement Agreement, the parties agreed upon a payment of Mr. Amos Kohn and Mr. Moti Rosenberg filled oneattorneys’ fees in the amount of the vacancies caused$600,000 payable by the resignations by appointing Mr. Robert O. SmithCompany’s Director & Officer liability insurance, which sum was paid. The Settlement Agreement contains no admission of wrongdoing. The Company has always maintained and continues to the board. Shortly thereafter, on October 13, 2016, Kristine Ault and William Horne were appointed to the boardbelieve that it did not engage in any wrongdoing or otherwise commit any violation of directors.federal or state securities laws or other laws.

 

Strategy

 

OurAs a holding company, our business strategy is designed to increase revenues through acquisitions was developedshareholder value. Under this strategy, we are focused on managing and financially supporting our existing subsidiaries and partner companies, with the goal of pursuing monetization opportunities and maximizing the value returned to shareholders. We have, are and will consider initiatives including, among others: public offerings, the sale of individual partner companies, the sale of certain or all partner company interests in secondary market transactions, or a combination thereof, as well as other opportunities to maximize shareholder value, such as activist trading. We anticipate returning value to shareholders after a reviewsatisfying our debt obligations and working capital needs.

On October 7, 2019, we created an Executive Committee which is comprised of our current business. While we continueExecutive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. The Executive Committee meets on a daily basis to maintain our core business of power system solutions foraddress the military-aerospace, medicalCompany’s critical needs and industrial-telecommunication industries, we have determined that significant organic growth in these industries will be challenging dueprovides a forum to approve transactions which are communicated to our limited releasesChief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of new products offerings, insufficient sales and marketing force asFinance on a result of deferring research and development of new products because of limited working capital, and lack of financial size in industries traditionally dominatedbi-weekly basis by more large, well established and capitalized power system solution companies.our Chief Executive Officer.

 

Therefore,Our Executive Committee approves and manages our investment and trading strategy. The Executive Committee has decades of experience in financial, investing and securities transactions. Led by our Founder and Executive Chairman, Milton “Todd” Ault III, we seek to find undervalued companies and disruptive technologies with a global impact. We also use a traditional methodology for valuing securities that primarily looks for deeply depressed prices. Upon making an investment, we often become actively involved in the companies we seek to acquire. That activity may involve a broad range of approaches, from influencing the management of a target to take steps to improve stockholder value, to acquiring a controlling interest or outright ownership of the target company in order to implement changes that we believe are required to improve its business, and then operating and expanding that business. Mr. Ault relies heavily on Mr. William B. Horne, the Company’s Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Henry Nisser, the Company’s President and General Counsel, to provide analysis and guidance on all acquisition targets and throughout the acquisition process.

From time to time, we engage in discussions with other companies interested in our subsidiaries or partner companies, either in response to inquiries or as part of a process we initiate. To the extent we believe that thea subsidiary partner company’s further growth and development can best strategy for us and our shareholdersbe supported by a different ownership structure or if we otherwise believe it is to invest our core business to support releases of advanced new power technologies and to expand our customer base and market share in our major serving markets. To supportshareholders’ best interests, we will seek to sell some or all of our position in the organic growth, we have hired numbersubsidiary or partner company. These sales may take the form of additional personalprivately negotiated sales of stock or assets, mergers and investing to enhance our productacquisitions, public offerings with state of the art technology. While we implementing new organic growth strategy, we are focusing on findingsubsidiary or partner company’s securities and, acquiring companies which have developed new technology and but have been unable to exploit the technology because the lack of capital; companies that are run inefficiently due to the lack of experience or mismanagement; companies that can benefit from our expertise in the commercialcase of publicly traded partner companies, transactions in their securities in the open market. Our plans may include taking subsidiaries or partner companies public through rights offerings and defense industriesdirected share subscription programs. We will continue to consider these and functionally equivalent programs and the sale of certain subsidiary or companies that enhancepartner company interests in secondary market transactions to maximize value for our overall revenues. Further,shareholders.

Our Executive Committee acts as discussed below, we have made a recent investmentthe underwriting committee for our subsidiary DP Lending and approves all lending transactions. Under its business model, DP Lending generates revenue through origination fees charged to borrowers and interest generated from each loan. DP Lending may also generate income from appreciation of investments in Avalanche International, Corp. which has acquired rightsmarketable securities as well as any shares of common stock underlying convertible notes or warrants issued to a company that has developed a cost effective and environment friendly material synthesis technology for textile applications.DP Lending in any particular financing. DP Lending’s activities are more fully described elsewhere in this Annual Report; see page 10.

 

As a result ofholding company, our business strategy is designed to increase shareholder value. Under this strategy, we are focused on managing and financially supporting our existing subsidiaries and partner companies, with the goal of revenue growth through acquisitions,pursuing monetization opportunities and maximizing the value returned to shareholders. We have, are and will consider initiatives including, among others: public offerings, the sale of individual partner companies, the sale of certain or all partner company interests in secondary market transactions, or a combination thereof, as well as other opportunities to maximize shareholder value. We anticipate returning value to shareholders after satisfying our debt obligations and working capital needs.

Over the recent past we have hired a numberprovided capital and relevant expertise to fuel the growth of additional personnel and consultants to assistbusinesses in identifying, analyzing, negotiating and acquiring potential companies and we will need to raise a substantial amount of capital for acquisitions and for supporting our infrastructure. We may invest in and continue to invest in companies that may experience losses until they can be integrated with our operations or until our cost reduction and efficiency changes can be implemented. Because of our increase in infrastructure expenses to seek new opportunities and investing in companies that demonstrate revenue potential, but our initially incurring losses, we anticipate to continue to experience losses in the near future until revenues from these acquisitions exceed our expenses.

Core Business – Power Systems Solutions

We provide the highest density, highest efficiency and high-grade flexibility power supply products and systems. We provide full custom, standard and modify-standard product solutions and value-added services to diverse industries and markets including military-aerospace,defense/aerospace, industrial, telecommunications, medical and industrial- telecommunication. textiles. We believe that our solutions leverage a combination of low leakage power emissions, very high power density with superior power efficiency, flexible design leveraging customize firmwarehave provided capital to subsidiaries as well as partner companies in which we have an equity interest or may be actively involved, influencing development through board representation and short time to market.


Our strategy is to be the supplier of choice to those companies and OEMs requiring high-quality power system solutions where custom design, superior product, high quality, time to market and very competitive prices are critical to business success. We believe that we provide advanced custom product design services to deliver high-grade products that reach a high level of efficiency and density and can meet rigorous environmental requirements. Our customers benefit from a direct relationship with us that support all of their needs for designing and manufacturing power solutions and products. By implementing our advanced core technology, including process implementation in integrated circuits, we can provide cost reductions to our customers by replacing their existing power sources with our custom design cost-effective products. Our target market segments include the industrial- telecommunication, medical, and military-aerospace industries.

Custom Power System Solution.    We provide high-grade custom power system solutions to several customers in multiple industry segments. Our custom solution technology includes full Digital Signal Processing (“DSP”) control, digital load sharing intelligent power management and customizable firmware. The products feature high power density, special layout and multiple outputs to meet each of our customer’s unique requirements. We combine our power design capabilities with the latest circuit designs to provide complete power solutions for virtually any need. In the design of custom power solutions, we work closely with our customers’ engineering teams to develop mechanical enclosures to ensure 100% compatibility with any hosted platform.

Our standard contract for custom power solutions includes a multi-year high-volume production forecast that allows us to secure long-term production guarantees (and therefore possible savings on manufacturing costs for volume orders) while providing an environment that promotes the development of our intellectual property (“IP”) portfolio.  We believe that this business model provides an incentive to our customers to be committed to high-volume production orders.

High-Grade Flexibility Series Power Supply Product. We offer our feature rich based power rectifiers that support flexible configuration and high-grade design implementation. This includes innovative designs and implementation including DSP control for Power Factor Correction (“PFC”) and DC/DC, synchronous rectifier outputs under DSP control, two phase PFC, hot pluggable, current sharing and other features. While some of our customers have special requirements that include a full custom design, other customers may require only certain electrical changes to standard power supply products, such as modified output voltages and unique status and control signals, and mechanical repackaging tailored to fit the specific application. We offer a wide range of standard and modified standard products that can be easily integrated with any platform across our diversified market segments. 

Value-Added Services. In addition to our custom solutions and high-grade flexibility series proprietary products that we offer, we also provide value-added services to original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”). We incorporate an OEM’s selected electronic components, enclosures, cable assemblies and other compliance components into our power system solutions to produce a power subassembly that is compatible with the OEM’s own equipment and specifically tailored to meet the OEM’s needs.  We purchase parts and components that the OEM itself would otherwise attach to, or integrate with, our power systems, and provide the OEM with the integration and installation service, thus eliminating a complex, time-consuming and costly integration. We believe that this value-added service is well suited to those OEMs who wish to reduce their vendor base and minimize their investment in manufacturing that leads to increased fixed costs. Based on these value-added services, the OEMs do not need to build assembly facilities to manufacture their own power sub-assemblies and thus are not required to purchase individual parts from many vendors.

Our products have a warranty period from date of shipment to the customer.support.

 

Markets

 

We sell our custom power system solutions, high-grade flexibility series power supply products and value-added services to customers in a diverse range of commercial and defense industries and markets throughout the world, with an emphasis on North America and Europe. Our current customer base consists of approximately 220 companies, some of which are served through our partner channels. We serve the North American power electronics market primarily through our domestic corporation,wholly owned subsidiary Digital Power Corporation;Corporation, whereas the European marketplace is served through DPL, ourGresham Worldwide, another wholly-owned subsidiary.

 


Gresham Worldwide’s operations focus exclusively on the market for electronic solutions that support the defense industry and other mission critical applications. The essential nature of these applications provides a degree of insulation from volatility associated with other segments of the global economy while accounting for stability and steady growth of the addressable market opportunities available to Gresham Worldwide in segments that it serves. Demand for solutions to meet these requirements continues unaffected, and in many instances increases, in times of global crisis. Total defense spending in the three countries in which Gresham Worldwide currently operates will total more than an estimated $813 billion in 2021. Gresham Worldwide sells to the militaries and defense contractors in 18 other countries as well. Overall global defense spending is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate, or CAGR, of 3% through 2023, with US spending growing at almost a 5% CAGR in the same period.

The drive for increased situational awareness and close coordination of air, land, sea, space and cyber operations will fuel an increase in defense electronics subsystems and components with total spending in 2020 of $131 billion and a projected CAGR of 5.6% through 2024, according to Global Defense Electronics Market, Trends, Driver and Outlook for 2020 and Beyond, Renaissance Strategic Advisors, September 2020. The drive for greater connectivity and analytics will in turn increase demand for RF communications, power solutions and electronic control systems content in new major military platforms, right in the sweet spot of Gresham Worldwide operating units.

Tens of thousands of companies compete in this market to deliver electronics solutions to meet defense and other mission critical applications. However, Gresham Worldwide’s operating units have longstanding relationships with dominant defense contractors in the US (Lockheed, BAE Systems, L3Harris, Raytheon, Boeing), in the UK (BAE, Rolls Royce, Thales, Bombardier) and in Israel (IAI, Rafael, Elbit) which hold contracts for major defense platforms with very long life cycles. These relationships enable Gresham Worldwide to narrow the field of competition considerably and thereby to grow based on repeat business with relatively low selling costs.

Beyond the defense arena, initiatives to complete $50 billion in upgrades to the current National Railway System in the UK over the next five years while spending $130 billion over the next 10 years to build a high speed rail to link London with the Midlands cities of Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester will generate significant opportunities for growth in demand for power solutions to upgrade and replace current infrastructure, both in rolling stock and track side controls. Relec Electronics’ current relationships and track record for supplying power solutions to the UK rail industry position Gresham Worldwide ideally to capitalize on these ongoing refurbishment and expansion efforts. A similarly robust market in the medical power supply markets with a CAGR at 5.4%, to reach $4.4 billion in 2022, creates tremendous growth opportunities for our Relec Electronics subsidiary in the UK.

 

We sell products to our OEM customers through direct sales or through our sales channels, including our manufacturersmanufacturers’ representatives and distributors. Our sales strategy is to identify and focus on strategic accounts. This strategy allows us to maintain a close and direct relationship with such accounts, which positions us as the supplier of choice for these customers’ challenging, innovative and demanding new product requirements. In striving for additional market share, we simultaneously seek to strengthen our traditional sales channels of manufacturer representatives and distributors. We plan to continue to build more channels and increase our market share through 2017.2021.

 

Commercial Customers. We serve global commercial markets including medical, telecom, and industrial companies. Our products are used in a variety of applications and operate in a broad range of systems where customers require mission critical power reliability and occasionally extreme environmental conditions. Our commercial customers include Elma GmbH, BioSense Webster, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, RS Components, Farnell, Parker Hannifin, Vanderbilt, Bombardier.

 

Military/Defense Customers. We have developed a broad range of rugged product solutions for the military and defense market, featuring the ability to withstand harsh environments. These ruggedized product solutions, which include both custom modifications and full custom designs, are designed for combat environments and meet the requirements of our defense customers. We manufacture our military products bythrough a domestic manufacturer that complies with US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”ITAR) and is certified to perform such manufacturing services. We are compliant with the US ITAR regulations and are an approved vendor for the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Army.

 

At the core of every military electronic system is a power supply. Mission critical systems require rugged high performance power platforms that will operate and survive the harsh environmental conditions placed upon such systems. Our power supplies, which include the following, function effectively in these severe military environments, including Missiles – Ground-to-Air, Air-to-Air and Sea-to-Air; Naval – Naval power conversion and distribution; Mobile and Ground Communications – Active Protection, Communications and Navigation; Artillery – Gyro modular azimuth position and navigation system; Surveillance, test equipment; and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) – Very lightweight power systems.

 

Our military products meet the relevant defense standards MIL-STD in accordance with the Defense Standardization Program Policies and Procedures. Space, weight, output power, electromagnetic compatibility, power density and multiple output requirements are only part of the challenges that any military power supply design faces. With many decades of experience, our engineering teams meet these tough challenges. Our power supplies are a critical component of many major weapon systems worldwide.

 

Our wholly-owned subsidiary DPLGresham Power develops and manufactures some military and defense products mainly being deployed in internationalseveral naval fleets.

 

Digital Power Limited (Gresham Power Electronics)Our Subsidiaries and their Businesses

 

Coolisys

We provide the highest density, highest efficiency and high-grade flexibility power supply products and systems. We provide full custom, standard and modify-standard product solutions and value-added services to diverse industries and markets including automotive, medical, military, telecom, commercial and industrial. We believe that our solutions leverage a combination of low leakage power emissions, very high-power density with superior power efficiency, flexible design leveraging customize firmware and short time to market.

Our strategy with respect to Coolisys Technologies Corp., or CTC, is to be the supplier of choice to companies, including OEMs, that require high-quality power system solutions where custom design, superior product, high quality, time to market and very competitive prices are critical to business success. We believe that we provide advanced custom product design services to deliver high-grade products that reach a high level of efficiency and density and can meet rigorous environmental requirements. Our customers benefit from a direct relationship with us that supports all of their needs for designing and manufacturing power solutions and products. By implementing our advanced core technology, including process implementation in integrated circuits, we can provide cost reductions to our customers by replacing their existing power sources with our custom design cost-effective products.

Electric Vehicle (“EV”) Market. Coolisys‘ electric vehicle supply equipment including its EV charging stations product line is well positioned to address the expected rapid expansion of infrastructure required to support broad adoption of electric vehicles globally. Coolisys has strong reputations for delivering high-reliability power solutions designed to serve mission critical applications in the harshest environments. Coolisys’ innovative charging solution can produce a full charge for an EV with a 150-mile range battery in just 30 minutes. It includes a wide range of solutions including level 2 AC EV charger station that are 208-240 volt compatible with the SAE J1772 standard and range of heavy duty level 3 DC fast EV charger station that is 150-1500VDC compatible with chargers equipped Combined Charging System or CCS, CHAdeMO and SAE J1772 charging plugs. Coolisys EVSE series can charge virtually any type of electrical vehicles, such as, Honda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Toyota, Kia, Subaru, Ford, General Motors, Volkswagen, Audi, Jaguar and Tesla (with the appropriate Tesla charging adapter).

Custom Power System Solution. We provide high-grade custom power system solutions to several customers in multiple industry segments. Our custom solution technology includes full Digital Signal Processing (“DSP”) control, digital load sharing intelligent power management and customizable firmware. The products feature high power density, special layout and multiple outputs to meet each of our customers’ unique requirements. We combine our power design capabilities with the latest circuit designs to provide complete power solutions for virtually any plausible need. In the design of custom power solutions, we work closely with our customers’ engineering teams to develop mechanical enclosures to ensure 100% compatibility with any hosted platform.

Our standard contract for custom power solutions includes a multi-year high-volume production forecast that allows us to secure long-term production guarantees (and therefore possible savings on manufacturing costs for volume orders) while providing an environment that promotes the development of our intellectual property (“IP”) portfolio. We believe that this business model provides an incentive to our customers to be committed to high-volume production orders.

High-Grade Flexibility Series Power Supply Product. We offer our feature rich based power rectifiers that support flexible configuration and high-grade design implementation. This includes innovative designs and implementation including DSP control for Power Factor Correction (“PFC”) and DC/DC, synchronous rectifier outputs under DSP control, two phase PFC, hot pluggable, current sharing and other features. While some of our customers have special requirements that include a full custom design, other customers may require only certain electrical changes to standard power supply products, such as modified output voltages, unique status and control signals, and mechanical repackaging tailored to fit the specific application. We offer a wide range of standard and modified standard products that can be easily integrated with any platform across our diversified market segments. 

Value-Added Services. In addition to our custom solutions and high-grade flexibility series proprietary products that we offer, we also provide value-added services to OEMs. We incorporate an OEM’s selected electronic components, enclosures, cable assemblies and other compliance components into our power system solutions to produce a power subassembly that is compatible with the OEM’s own equipment and specifically tailored to meet the OEM’s needs. We purchase parts and components that the OEM itself would otherwise attach to, or integrate with, our power systems, and provide the OEM with the integration and installation service, thus eliminating the need for complex, time-consuming and costly system integration. We believe that this value-added service is well suited to those OEMs that wish to reduce their vendor base and minimize their investment in manufacturing, which would lead to increased fixed costs. Given access to these value-added services, the OEMs do not need to build assembly facilities to manufacture their own power sub-assemblies and thus are not required to purchase individual parts from many vendors.

Gresham Worldwide, Inc.

Gresham Worldwide provides defense solutions with operations conducted by Microphase, Enertec, Gresham Power and Relec

Gresham Power (formerly known as Digital Power Limited, our wholly-owned subsidiary organized and headquartered in Salisbury, United Kingdom ,Limited)

Gresham Power designs, manufactures, and distributes switching power supplies, uninterruptible power supplies and power conversion and distribution equipment frequency converters for the commercial and military markets, under the name Gresham Power Electronics (“Gresham”).Gresham. Frequency converters manufactured by Gresham are used by naval warships to convert their generated 60-cycle electricity supply to 400 cycles. This 400-cycle supply is used to power their critical equipment such as gyro, compass, and weapons systems. Gresham also designs and manufactures transformer rectifiers for naval use. Typically, these provide battery supported back up for critical DC systems, such as machinery and communications. In addition, higher power rectifiers are used for the starting and servicing of helicopters on naval vessels, and Gresham now supplies these as part of overall helicopter start and servicing systems. We believe that Gresham products add diversity to our product line, provide greater access to the United Kingdom and European markets, and strengthen our engineering and technical resources.

 


Gresham Power specializes in engineering, designing and developing power conversion and distribution solutions for Naval applications, with equipment installed on virtually all of the UK Royal Navy’s submarine and surface fleet. Many of Gresham Power’s ultra-reliable offerings support shipboard distribution of electrical power in emergencies (such as loss of main ship’s power) to enable continued operation of weapons systems, tactical communications and lighting. Gresham Power specializes in a comprehensive range of activities from PCB and Mechanical Design through prototype development to board and system assembly and test. Its engineers ruggedize Marine power products to meet high levels of shock, vibration, harsh climate conditions and the most rigorous MIL STD requirements. Gresham Power also has deployed its equipment on vessels of the navies of 15 other countries, include Australia, Malaysia, Oman, Spain, Turkey and Japan.

 

Microphase Corporation

Microphase designs, manufactures and sells microwave electronics components for radar, electronic warfare (“EW”) and communication systems. Such components include radio frequency (“RF”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“DLVAs”). Microphase’s customers are comprised of the U.S. military and allied militaries, and contractors to the U.S. military including prime contractors and sub-contractors. Microphase’s recent technology innovations are used in many significant U.S. Government defense programs, including the Polaris submarine, the F-16, the F-35 and the Predator drone. Other notable programs in which Microphase’s products are or were used include the Atlas Missile, Vanguard Missile, Polaris Missile System, SHRIKE Missile, ARM Missile, Patriot Missile System, THAAD (or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense), the Samos, Tiros, and Currier Space Probes, the B-1 Bomber, the FB-111, EA-6B, F-14, F-16, F-18, JAS Gripen fighter, and the F-35 joint strike fighter plane, and more recently drone programs including the Predator, the Reaper and the Shadow.

Microphase’s advanced technology products enable the ultra-sensitive detection and high precision video amplification that are necessary in order to accurately recover the signals and facilitate use of the information received. These products include:

·filters that sort and clarify microwave signals, including multiplexers that are a series of filters combined in a single package;
·solid state amplifiers that amplify microwave signals;
·detectors and limiters that are semiconductor devices for detection of radar signals and protection of receivers from damage from high power signals and jamming;
·detector log video amplifiers that are fully integrated, ruggedized, “mil-spec” signal detection systems;
·integrated assemblies that combine multiple functions from a range of components and devices, including transmitters, receivers, filters, amplifiers, detectors, and other functionality into single, efficient, high performance, multifunction assemblies;
·electronic test and measurement probes;
·universal test and measurement test platforms and fixtures; and
·utility probes and antenna probes.

Manufacturing and Testing

 

Consistent with our strategy of focusing on custom design products and high-grade flexibility series products, we aim to maintain a high degree of flexibility in our manufacturing through the use of strategically focused contract manufacturers. We select contract manufacturers to ensure that they will meet our near termnear-term cost, delivery, and quality goals. In addition, we believe these relationships will eventually give us access to new markets and beneficial cross-licensing opportunities. The competitive nature of the power supply industry has placed continual downward pressure on selling prices. In order to achieve our low costlow-cost manufacturing goals with labor-intensive products, we have entered into manufacturing agreements with certain contract manufacturers domestically and in Asia.

We sell certain products that are developed, manufactured and sold to us by Advice Electronics Ltd. (“Advice”), an Israeli company that acquired the assets and commercial operations of our major shareholder Telkoor in January 2016. We entered into a manufacturing and royalty rights agreement with Advice in January 2016. This agreement formalized the business relationship between Advice and us in order to allow us to continue manufacturing certain of Telkoor’s products (currently owned by Advice) and the respective royalty charge.

In June 2015, OHM Power Solutions Ltd. (“Ohm”) acquired from Telkoor its entire military assets and military operation. The asset sale between Telkoor and Ohm does not affect our ability to manufacturing and sell certain of Telkoor’s military products.

 

We are continually improving our internal processes, while monitoring the processes of our contract manufacturers, to ensure the highest quality and consistent manufacturing of our power solutions. We test all of our products under stress operating conditions per defined test procedures we developed as part of the production process. This approach ensures that our customers can use our power supplies right out of the box. Customer specific testing services are offered with custom designed test stands to simulate operation within our customer applications.

 

Compliance with international safety agency standards is critical in every application, and power solutions play a major role in meeting these compliance requirements. Our safety engineers and quality assurance teams help ensure that our custom products are designed to meet all safety requirements and are appropriately documented to expedite safety approval processes.

 

Regulatory RequirementsEnertec Systems 2001 Ltd.

 

WeBased in Israel, Enertec designs, develops, manufactures and our contract manufacturing partners are requiredmaintains advanced end-to-end high technology electronic solutions for military, medical, telecommunications and industrial markets. Those solutions include custom computer-based automated test equipment and turnkey systems to meet applicable regulatory, environmental, emissions, safetyensure combat readiness, provide command and other requirements where specified by the customercontrol, and accepted by us or as required by local regulatory or legal requirements.direct and deploy resources in military operations in harsh environments and battlefield conditions. The Company also designs, develops, manufactures and maintains high precision calibration equipment for lifesaving medical operations for a global health care products that we market and sell in Europe may be subject to the 2003 European Directive on Restriction of Hazardous Substances (“RoHS”), which restricts the use of six hazardous materials in the manufacture of certain electronic and electrical equipment,company as well as advance power systems for electric vehicle, telecom and other industrial applications. Enertec delivers complete end-to-end project management with requirements definition, systems engineering, design/development, production, testing, integration, field support, maintenance and optimization. Its custom engineered solutions enable and support mission critical air, land and sea military platforms, e.g., missiles, UAVs, combat aircraft, boats, submarines, trailers and satellites.

Enertec’s primary customers include the 2002 European DirectiveIsraeli Ministry of Defense and the 3 major defense contractors in Israel – Israel Air Industries (IAI), Rafael and Elbit Systems. In addition, Enertec has a strategic partnership with Cyient to build and deliver solutions for the Indian military. High tech capabilities to deliver advance electronics solutions create opportunities for other Gresham Worldwide operating subsidiaries – Microphase and Gresham Power – to supply components for Enertec solutions. Enertec also provides geographic reach into the Middle East and India to broaden Gresham Worldwide’s footprint in delivering the highest quality and most advance technology solutions across the globe.

Enertec is Israel’s largest, most well-established manufacturer of test equipment and simulators. We develop and manufacture test systems and simulators for all types of weapons systems at all levels of maintenance, development, and integration. We are currently working on Waste Electricaldeveloping a new generation of electronics cards and Electronic Equipment (“WEEE”), which determines collection, recyclingassemblies to build a new generation of test systems.

Enertec complies with all information security requirements included in it customer contracts as well as all the confidentiality laws that the State of Israel mandates for work related to defense of the country.

Relec Electronics Ltd.

Relec Electronics Ltd was established in 1978 with the aim of providing specialist power conversion and recovery goalsdisplay products to support professionals in the electronics industry. Relec markets and distributes power electronics and display solutions for electrical goods. In July 2006, our industry began phasingmission critical rail, industrial, medical, telecoms and military applications. Relec develops custom solutions for various applications ranging from light industrial to heavily ruggedized for the harshest of environments. Relec exerts its utmost effort to customize a product or a feature to achieve optimum performance and service delivery. Relec continues to be guided by this philosophy and currently operates in RoHSspecific fields, specializing in AC-DC Power Supplies, DC-DC Converters, Displays and WEEE requirementsEMC Filters.

Ault Alliance, Inc.

Ault Alliance provides commercial lending through DP Lending, data center operations through ACS, digital marketing through Tansocial and digital learning.

DP Lending

DP Lending provides funding to businesses through loans and investments. DP Lending offers a variety of loan types including commercial loans, convertible notes and revolving lines of credit. DP Lending is engaged in most geographical marketsproviding commercial loans to companies throughout the United States to provide them with specific emphasis on consumer-based products.   We believe that RoHS and WEEE-compliant componentsoperating capital to finance the growth of their businesses. The loans are primarily short-term, ranging from six to twelve months, but may be subject toof longer lead-times and higher prices as the industry transitions to these new requirements.

Some of our productsduration. These terms are subject to ITAR regulationchange as market needs dictate, and restrictions,DP Lending anticipates offering additional products in the future.

DP Lending uses its considerable financial experience, data analytics, and a credit scoring model to assess the creditworthiness of each small business borrower applicant. If the business meets DP Lending’s criteria, DP Lending sets the initial interest rate according to its credit and financial models. The final interest rate offered to the borrower will be determined by DP Lending’s interpretation of the marketplace. In order to borrow from DP Lending, borrowers must display characteristics indicative of durable business and financial situations. These include factors such as revenue, time in business, number of employees, and financial and credit variables. In order to qualify, business borrower applicants must be approved through DP Lending’s underwriting process, which analyzes credit and financial data of both the business and the business owner. DP Lending takes into account several business factors (including revenue, age of business, cash flows, and other variables). The underwriting process determines the loan amount to approve, how loans will be priced, and whether to include a blanket lien is based on the above analysis, as well as additional factors (including length of loan, estimated default rates by type and grade, and general economic environment).

Our Executive Committee, which is administered bycomprised of our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President, acts as the U.S. Departmentunderwriting committee for DP Lending and approves all lending transactions. The Executive Committee has decades of State. ITAR controls not only the exportexperience in financial, investing and securities transactions. Under its business model, DP Lending generates revenue through origination fees charged to borrowers and interest generated from each loan. DP Lending may also generate income from appreciation of certain products specifically designed, modified, configuredinvestments in marketable securities as well as any shares of common stock underlying convertible notes or adapted for military systems, but also the export of related technical data and defense services and foreign production. We obtain required export licenses forwarrants issued to DP Lending in any exports subject to ITAR. Compliance with ITAR may require a prolonged period of time; if the process of obtaining required export licenses for products subject to ITAR is delayed, it could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results. Any future restrictions or charges may be imposed by the United States or any other foreign country. In addition,particular financing.

As noted above, we will from time to time, through DP Lending, engage in discussions with other companies interested in our subsidiaries or partner companies, either in response to inquiries or as part of a process we enter into defense contractsinitiate. To the extent we believe that a subsidiary partner company’s further growth and development can best be supported by a different ownership structure or if we otherwise believe it is in our shareholders’ best interests, we will seek to supply technologysell some or all of our position in the subsidiary or partner company. These sales may take the form of privately negotiated sales of stock or assets, mergers and productsacquisitions, public offerings of the subsidiary or partner company’s securities and, in the case of publicly traded partner companies, transactions in their securities in the open market. Our plans may include taking subsidiaries or partner companies public through rights offerings and directed share subscription programs. We will continue to foreign countriesconsider these and functionally equivalent programs and the sale of certain subsidiary or partner company interests in secondary market transactions to maximize value for programsour shareholders.

During 2021, we anticipate providing significant new funding to expand DP Lending’s loan and investment portfolio. DP Lending loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Financing Law license (Lic.no. 60 DBO77905).

ACS

ACS operates a data center and conducts bitcoin mining at a 617,000 square foot energy-efficient facility located on a 34.5 acre site in southern Michigan with the ability to offer up to 300MWs of critical power capacity. The data center was acquired on February 1, 2021 and revenue from the existing commercial real estate operations began being recognized during the quarter ending March 31, 2021 and, upon completion of the initial buildout of 30,000 square feet, or the equivalent of 1,000 cabinets capable of housing over 40,000 servers, recognition of revenue from the enterprise cloud data center is expected to begin during the quarter ending June 30, 2021.

The buildout of the initial 30,000 square feet will be for colocation services, including build-to-suit arrangements, in which customers will be provided with secure, reliable and robust environments for hardware and access to network connectivity that are fundednecessary to aggregate and governed bydistribute information. By initially focusing on colocation services that range from a single rack to multi-megawatt hyperscale requirements, we will be able to minimize our capital and operating expenses and also provide an attractive alternative to companies that either host internally and need additional capacity or are evaluating build vs. buy alternatives. We expect that revenues from the e U.S. Foreign Military Financing program.colocation services will be primarily based on a recurring revenue model comprised of colocation for a predetermined amount of allocated power and related interconnection offerings. Ultimately, we intend to expand our service offerings to include managed cloud computing, in other words the on-demand availability of various technology resources, such as compute, storage and network. While we believe the Facility and its anticipated future operations will be successful, there is a risk that its expectations will not materialize in a timely manner, if at all.

 


Tansocial

 

Tansocial is an early-stage marketing company leveraging innovative digital tools to provide lead generation, influencer promotion and marketing, client acquisition training systems, social media branding/content, digital marketing consulting, and text message marketing.

Sales and Marketing

 

We market our products directly through our internal sales force as well as through our channel partners including independent manufacturer representatives (Reps) and distributors. Each manufacturing Reprepresentative promotes our products in a particular assigned geographic territory. Generally, the Repsmanufacturing representatives have the opportunity to earn exclusive access to all potential customers in the assigned territory as a result of achieving itstheir marketing and sales goals as defined in the representative agreement. Our manufacturer representative agreements provide for a commission equal to 5% of gross sales of new “design-in” and 1.75% to 2.0% of gross sales for retention, payable after products wereare shipped to the customer in the assigned territory. Typically, either we or the Repsmanufacturing representatives are entitled to terminate the Repmanufacturing representative agreement upon 30 days’ written notice.

 

Historically,Gresham Power Electronics makes limited use of channel partners including independent manufacturer representatives and strategic operating partners in the Middle East, India and Australia. These representatives promote our products and serve as the customer interface for Gresham Power in specific parts of the world as agreed. Typically, either we have also sold products through multiple power focused distributors. Distributorsor the manufacturing representatives are not assignedentitled to a particular geographical territory.  Each of these arrangements can be terminated by either partyterminate the manufacturer representative agreement upon 30 days’ written notice.

Our Relec subsidiary advertises in highly targeted industry-specific publications such as Electronics Weekly, New Electronics, Electronic Product Design & Test, Electronics Specifier, Components In Electronics, Design Products & Applications, Rail Technology Magazine, Rail Engineer, Rail Professional. In addition, Relec also posts regular podcasts on topics of interest to customers and prospect as well as running an active PR campaign to get placements of earned media and coverage in a wide range of media. We look to replicate similar campaigns in other operating subsidiaries to generate inquiries/leads, raise awareness of Gresham Worldwide and support talent recruiting efforts.

 

We provide comprehensive collateral materials including product data sheets, participation in trade shows, and our website, www.digipwr.com.websites, www.digipwr.com and www.microphase.com. We use our website to emphasize our capabilities and marketing direction. All products specifications are uploaded onto our websitewebsites and accessible to the marketplace. We will continue to enhance our websitewebsites by adding more features and functionalities, such as e-commerce, that will allow our customers to make direct purchases through our website. Our future promotional activities will likely include advertising in industry-specific publications, as well as public relations for our new products.

 

Engineering and Technology

 

Our engineering and product development efforts are primarily directed toward developing new products in connection with custom product design and modification of our standard power systems to provide a broad array of individual models.

 

Our new custom product solutions are driven by our ability to provide to our customers advanced technology that meets their product needs and supports special operation and environmental requirements, with a short turnaround time and a very competitive price point. We believe that we are successfully executing our strategic account focus, as evidenced by the award of second and third generation product development contracts from some of these customers. Our standard contract for custom power solutions includes a multi-year high-volume production forecast that could allow us to secure long-term production guarantees while providing an environment that promotes the development of our IP portfolio.

 

We also outsource some of our product development projects to engineering partners in order to achieve the best technological and product design results for the targeted application customer requirements. When required, we also modify standard products to meet specific customer requirements, including, but not limited to, redesigning commercial products to meet MIL-STD requirements for military applications based on commercial off the shelf (“COTS”COTS) products and for other customized product requirements, when applicable. We continually seek to improve our product power density, adaptability, and efficiency, while attempting to anticipate changing market demands for increased functionality, such as PFC controlled DSP, customized firmware and improved EMI (electromagnetic interference) filtering. We continue to attempt to differentiate all of our products from commodity-type products by enhancing, modifying and customizing our existing product portfolio, using our engineering integrating laboratory located in California.

 

Competition

 

The power system solutions industry is highly fragmented and characterized by intense competition. Our competition includes hundreds of companies located throughout the world, some of which have advantages over us in terms of labor and component costs, and some of which may offer products superior or comparable in quality to ours. Many of our competitors, including Bel Fuse),Fuse, Artesyn Embedded Technologies, TDK-Lambda, Delta Electronics, Murata and Mean-Well Power Supplies, have substantially greater fiscal and marketing resources and geographic presence than we do. If we are successful in increasing our revenues, competitors may notice and increase competition efforts with our customers. We also face competition from current and prospective customers who may decide to internally design and manufacture power supplies needed for their products. Furthermore, certain larger OEMs tend to contract only with larger power supply manufacturers.


 

We anticipate in the current economic situation, that additional competitors may enter into strategic alliances or even acquisitions. Competition could thus become more problematic if consolidation trends in the electronics industry continue and some of the OEMs to whomwhich we sell our products are acquired by larger OEMs. To remain competitive, we must continue to compete favorably on the basis of value by providing reliable manufacturing, offering customer-driven engineering services including custom design and manufacturing, continuously improving quality and reliability levels, and offering flexible and reliable delivery schedules.

 

We believe that our power system solutions and advanced technology is superior to our competitorscompetitors’ power supplies mainly because theywe use the latest power technology processing and controls which make these power supplies highly customized and efficient. The power-to-volume ratio makes our power solutions more compact compared to what is offered by our competitors and is suitable in custom infrastructures to meet our customers’ requirements.

 

Another advantage of our power system solutions product line is based on the “Flexible” series that employs adjustable power range and a selectable number of output product design platforms. We believe we have a competitive position with our targeted customers whothat need a high-quality, compact product, which can be readily modified to meet the customer’scustomer’s unique requirements. We have designed the base model power system platform so that it can be quickly and economically modified and adapted to the specific power needs of any hosting platform or OEM. This “flexibility” approach has allowed us to provide samples of modified power systems to OEM customers only a few days after initial consultation, an important capability given the emphasis placed by OEMs on “time to market.” It also results in very low non-recurring engineering (“NRE”NRE) expenses. Because of reduced NRE expenses, we do not generally charge our OEM customers for NRE related to tailoring a power system to a customer’s specific requirements. We believe this gives us an advantage over our competitors, many of which charge their customers for NRE expenses.

The markets in which Microphase operates is also highly competitive and sensitive to technological advances. Many of Microphase’s competitors are larger than it is and maintain higher levels of expenditures for research and development. Principal competitive factors in Microphase’s markets are product quality and reliability; technological capabilities; service; past performance; ability to develop and implement complex, integrated solutions; ability to meet delivery schedules; the effectiveness of third-party sales channels in international markets; and cost-effectiveness.

In the RF Communications market, principal competitors for filter components products include K& L Microwave, a Dover company located in Salisbury, MD; RS Microwave, a privately held company headquartered in Butler, NJ; Lorch Microwave of Salisbury, MD, a member of the Smith Group, a global technology company listed on the London Stock Exchange; and Delta Diversified Products, a private company based in Arizona.

In the Video amplifier segment, principal competitors for Detector Log Video Amplifier Sensor products include American Microwave Corporation, a privately held company headquartered in Frederick, MD; Akon Inc., a privately held company based in San Jose, CA; Planar Monolithics Industries, a privately held company based in Frederick, MD; L-3 Narda-Miteq, a subsidiary of L-3 Communications Inc., a publicly traded company based in New York, NY; and Signal Technology, a subsidiary of Crane Co., a publicly traded company based in Stamford, CT.

Our Enertec subsidiary faces direct competition from smaller firms than itself such as Nir Or, EPS, MER, Alexander Schneider, Symcotech and Chaban, which specialize in components of electronic solutions. Offering end-to-end, turnkey solutions gives Enertec a competitive advantage over other private contractors competing to provide the Israeli MOD and major OEMs with electronic systems and components. That competitive advantage renders roughly 80% of Enertec’s business de facto “sole source” work without other viable competition.

Gresham Power confronts competition from Ultra Electronics and Rolls Royce. As in the case of Microphase, elegant designs, strong engineering and a long track record for delivering ultra-reliable high quality power electronics solutions enables Gresham Power to compete effectively.

Relec competes against many other distributors of power electronics and display offerings, facing competition from the likes of Fidus Power Ltd, Mouser Electronics and Avnet Abacus as well as power supply and electronics manufacturers like XP and ABB who sell direct, many of which have significantly more fiscal and marketing resources than Relec. However, a high touch, customer-focused approach enables Relec to compete effectively against high volume distributors and direct selling manufacturers. Optimizing and designing solutions into customer product lines has proven tremendously effective in building relationships with customers and suppliers alike that endure over time, generating regular repeat business and builds a reputation for customer service that provides a strong competitive advantage when pursuing new customers.

We also face competition from current and prospective customers who may decide to design and manufacture power electronics, communications components and electronic solutions needed to satisfy their internal programmatic requirements.

Consolidation in the defense technology solutions market, including through mergers, acquisitions and/or strategic alliances among major entities to which we sell our products, has the potential to intensify the competitive pressures that we face. Many of our existing and potential competitors may be better positioned than we are to acquire other companies, technologies or products. We believe we compete favorably on the basis of multiple factors, including product quality and reliability, technological capabilities, service, past performance, design flexibility and ability to develop and implement complex, integrated solutions customized to our customers’ needs, and cost-effectiveness. Focusing on bespoke technology offerings with relatively low volumes and high margins enables our operating subsidiaries to compete favorably on price against larger companies with much high indirect cost structures. Finally, the fragmentation of the defense technology market also creates opportunities the Gresham Worldwide to grow through acquiring competitors and/or potential competitors.

 

Raw Materials

 

The raw materials for power supplies principally consist of electronic components. These raw materials are available from a variety of sources, and thus we are not dependent on any one supplier. We generally allow our subcontractors to purchase components based on orders received or forecasts to minimize our risk of unusable inventory. To the extent necessary, we may allow them to procure materials prior to orders received to obtain shorter lead times and to achieve quantity discounts following a risk assessment. In addition, we have decided to directly procure certain long lead-time electronic components in an effort to reduce our lead-time.

 

Many raw material vendors have reduced capacities, closed production lines and, in some cases, discontinued operations. As a result, some materials are no longer available to support some of our products requiring us to search for cross materials or, in certain circumstances, redesign some of our products to conform to currently available materials.

 

Intellectual Property

 

We rely upon a combination of trade secrets, industry expertise, confidential procedures, and contractual provisions to protect our intellectual property. We believe that because our products are continually updated and revised, obtaining patents would be costly and not beneficial. It is our policy to enter into confidentiality and invention assignment agreements with our employees and contractors as well as nondisclosure agreements with our suppliers and strategic partners in order to limit access to and disclosure of our proprietary information. However, in the future, as we continue to develop unique core technology, we may seek to obtain patents for some of the core technology. On July 10, 2012, our trademark, “DP Digital Power Flexible Power” was registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

 


In conjunction with our majority acquisition of Microphase, we concluded that because of the industry recognition of the Microphase trademark and trade name, which has been around for nearly 60 years, the tradename and trademark represented a significant intellectual property asset.

Microphase and Enertec typically design custom products to our customer specifications as “work for hire” and therefore own no intellectual property in the design. As the ultimate end user, the U.S. DoD and the Israeli MOD typically acquire and retain rights in all such technical data. Microphase does acquire and own intellectual property in the fabrication, assembly, tuning and testing protocols followed the production of the products. And, as they conduct more independent research and development to new technology solutions, both companies plan to file for patents to protect their intellectual property.

In the UK, Gresham Power typically will retain ownership of the intellectual property of the designs of products developed for defense applications. However, neither Relec nor Gresham Power typically retains intellectual property in any of the standard power products that they sell on the commercial market.

Compliance with Material Government (Not Just Environmental) Regulations

Coolisys

Coolisys’ businesses are heavily regulated in most of its markets. Coolisys handles power electronics products mainly in the form of power conversion. Coolisys must take into account several standards for electronic safety to protect the health of humans and animals. Coolisys serves diverse markets including automotive, defense/aerospace, medical/healthcare, industrial and telecommunications, each of which has its own set of their safety regulations and standard that Coolisys must comply with.

Government Contracts. The U.S. government, and other governments, may terminate any of Coolisys’ government contracts at their convenience, as well as for default based on our failure to meet specified performance requirements. If any of Coolisys’ U.S. government contracts were to be terminated for convenience, Coolisys would generally be entitled to receive payment for work completed and allowable termination or cancellation costs. If any of Coolisys’ government contracts were to be terminated for default, generally the U.S. government would pay only for the work that has been accepted and could require Coolisys to pay the difference between the original contract price and the cost to re-procure the contract items, net of the work accepted from the original contract. The U.S. government can also hold Coolisys liable for damages resulting from the default.

Medical device power supplies. Coolisys’ medical power supplies must incorporate one or more means of protection (“MOP”) to avoid electrocution. A MOP can be safety insulation, a protective earth, a defined creepage distance, an air gap (clearance) or other protective impedance. These can be used in various combinations - having two MOPs means if one fails, there is another in place. A MOP can be achieved through safety insulation, protective earth, a defined creepage distance, an air gap, other protective impedances, or by implementing a combination of these techniques. Coolisys must comply with a standard that treats operators and patients, resulting in the classifications “means of operator protection” and “means of patient protection.” The latter requirements are more stringent because the patient may be physically connected via an AP and unconscious when the fault occurs.

Environmental. Coolisys is subject to various federal, state, local and non-U.S. laws and regulations relating to environmental protection, including the discharge, treatment, storage, disposal and remediation of hazardous substances and wastes. Coolisys continually assesses its compliance status and management of environmental matters to ensure that its operations are in compliance with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. Investigation, remediation, and operation and maintenance costs associated with environmental compliance and management of sites are a normal, recurring part of Coolisys’ operations.

Non-U.S. Sales. Coolisys’ non-U.S. sales are subject to both U.S. and non-U.S. governmental regulations and procurement policies and practices, including regulations relating to import-export control, tariffs, investment, exchange controls, anti-corruption, and repatriation of earnings. Non-U.S. sales are also subject to varying currency, political and economic risks.

Gresham

Gresham’s businesses are heavily regulated in most of its markets. Gresham transacts with numerous U.S. government agencies and entities, including but not limited to the Department of Defense, branches of the U.S. military and the Department of Homeland Security. Similar government authorities exercise similar regulatory oversight in Gresham’s non-U.S. markets.

Government Contracts. The governments of the U.S., UK and Israel may terminate any of Gresham’s applicable operating subsidiaries’ government contracts at their convenience, as well as for default based on our failure to meet specified performance requirements. If the U.S. Government terminated any of Gresham’s contracts for convenience, Gresham generally would be entitled to receive payment for work completed and allowable termination or cancellation costs. If any of Gresham’s government contracts were to be terminated for default, generally the U.S. government would pay only for the work that has been accepted and could require Gresham to pay the difference between the original contract price and the cost to re-procure the contract items, net of the work accepted from the original contract. The U.S. government can also hold Gresham liable for damages resulting from the default. Similar provisions apply to Gresham’s contracts with other governments and to Gresham’s subcontractors with major defense contractors who provide systems or military platforms directly to the government.

Power Electronics. In all of Gresham’s markets in the U.S., Gresham’s commercial power electronics offerings must comply with safety, energy use and operational performance regulations and standards (IEC/EN/UL/CSA) issued and administered by international standards organizations. In the U.S., the Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Communications Commission mandate and enforce compliance with these standards. Outside the U.S., various government agencies in the UK, Europe and Israel mandate and enforce compliance with these international requirements for safety, energy use and operational performance. In commercial markets, Gresham’s suppliers bear most of the expense of compliance with international standards as a standard cost of business. Given the universal application of these requirements, the costs of compliance do not create any competitive disadvantage because all competitors must comply to sell into the market.

Environmental. Gresham must meet applicable regulatory, environmental, emissions, safety and other requirements where its customer specifies or as applicable local regulations or laws require. The products that Gresham markets and sells in Europe also may be subject to the 2003 European Directive on Restriction of Hazardous Substances (“RoHS”), which restricts the use of six hazardous materials in the manufacture of certain electronic and electrical equipment, as well as the 2002 European Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (“WEEE”), which determines collection, recycling and recovery goals for electrical goods. In July 2006, Gresham’s industry began phasing in RoHS and WEEE requirements in most geographical markets with specific emphasis on consumer-based products. Gresham believes that RoHS and WEEE-compliant components may be subject to longer lead-times and higher prices as the industry transitions to these new requirements. REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals Registration) is a European Union regulation dating from 18 December 2006. REACH addresses the production and use of chemical substances, and their potential impacts on both human health and the environment.

These regulatory mandates apply to all of Gresham’s operating subsidiaries. Gresham has structured operations to comply with these requirements and have experienced little to no impact on lead times or prices. Give the applicability of these requirements to all competitors alike, compliance has had no impact on the competitive position of any operating subsidiary.

Non-U.S. Sales. Gresham’s non-U.S. sales are subject to both U.S. and non-U.S. governmental regulations and procurement policies and practices, including regulations relating to import-export control, tariffs, investment, exchange controls, anti-corruption, and repatriation of earnings. Non-U.S. sales are also subject to varying currency, political and economic risks.

Alliance Cloud Services

ACS is subject to various federal, state, local and non-U.S. laws and regulations relating to environmental protection and remediation of hazardous substances and wastes. ACS continually assesses compliance status and management of environmental matters to ensure our operations are in compliance with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. Investigation, remediation, and operation and maintenance costs associated with environmental compliance and management of sites are a normal, recurring part of operations. While ACS’s regulatory compliance costs are currently not considered material, it is reasonably possible that costs incurred to ensure continued environmental compliance could have a material impact on results of operations, financial condition or cash flows if new areas of soil, air and groundwater contamination are discovered and/or expansions of work scope are prompted by the results of ongoing monitoring.

Security Clearance

As a U.S. Government contractor, we are required to maintain facility and personnel security clearances complying with the DoD and other Federal agency requirements. Microphase maintains strict protocols for handling classified information and Confidential Unclassified Information associated with its work for the United States Department of Defense and has built a “Secure Compartmented Information Facility” within its Shelton production facility certified for generating, storing and reviewing classified information.

Gresham Power works on many contracts classified as “Official Sensitive” that require individual security clearances and adherence to information security protocols for receiving, handling and storing confidential information as required in the UK Official Secrets Act and its implementing regulations.

Enertec complies with all information security requirements included in their customer contracts as well as all the confidentiality laws that the State of Israel mandates for work related to defense of the country.

Audits and Investigations

As a government contractor, we are subject to audits and investigations by U.S. Government agencies including the Defense Contract Audit Agency (the “DCAA”), the Defense Contract Management Agency (the “DCMA”), the Inspector General of the DoD and other departments and agencies, the Government Accountability Office, the Department of Justice and Congressional Committees. From time-to-time, these and other agencies investigate or conduct audits to determine whether a contractor’s operations are being conducted in accordance with applicable requirements. The DCAA and DCMA also review the adequacy of, and compliance with, a contractor’s internal control systems and policies, including the contractor’s accounting, purchasing, property, estimating, earned value management and material management accounting systems. Our final allowable incurred costs for each year are also subject to audit and have from time to time resulted in disputes between us and the U.S. Government. Any costs found to be improperly allocated to a specific contract will not be reimbursed or must be refunded if already reimbursed. If an audit or investigation uncovers improper or illegal activities, we may be subject to civil and criminal penalties and administrative sanctions, which may include termination of contracts, forfeiture of profits, suspension of payments, fines and suspension or prohibition from doing business with the U.S. Government.

Enertec conducts operations under constant supervision of the Ministry of Defense of Israel and the contractors through which the MOD does most of its business. All of its contracts are subject to audits of performance, quality and price reasonableness.

Gresham Power contracts with UK Ministry of Defence, Royal Navy or major defense contractors serving those agencies include standard provisions which give the customer the right to audit our performance under those contracts when they see fit. Audits are part of doing business with the government and typically focus on deliveries – on time project milestones as well as quality. The Royal Navy will review Gresham Power pricing of services provided under support contract every 12 months for reasonableness.

The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation, as implemented in standard contract clauses, mandates that Microphase establish and follow extensive detailed processes and protocols to protect classified and Confidential Unclassified Information (CUI) from disclosure and unauthorized access. That mandate includes a requirement that Microphase formulate and implement a System Security Plan with 110 different elements and protocols for handling and protecting classified information and CUI. Over the next 3 years, the DoD will require all participants in the defense supply chain to demonstrate compliance with the Capability Model Maturity Cybersecurity as verified through an independent third party auditor. Compliance with these mandates requires and will require Microphase to invest significant resources to maintain compliance. For instance, compliance requires extensive security controls on access to Microphase IT systems, strong firewalls and intrusion monitoring. Microphase will have to hire a full-time person to ensure information security and act as a Facility Security Officer as well as oversee security of all Microphase employees. These investments add to indirect cost pools that Microphase must recover in the price of its products for DoD and contractors.

Gresham Power Electronics Ltd is fully certified as “Cyber Essentials Compliant.” Cyber Essentials is a Government-backed, industry-supported scheme to help organizations protect themselves against common online threats. The UK Government requires all suppliers bidding for contracts involving the handling of sensitive and personal information to be certified against the Cyber Essentials program criteria.

Enertec has implemented the strongest possible cyber security protections consistent with the resources available to a company its size.

Other Compliance Issues

In addition, we are subject to the local, state and national laws and regulations of the jurisdictions where we operate that affect companies generally, including laws and regulations governing commerce, intellectual property, trade, health and safety, contracts, privacy and communications, consumer protection, web services, tax, and corporate laws and securities laws. These regulations and laws may change over time. Unfavorable changes in existing and new laws and regulations could increase our cost of doing business and impede our growth.

 

Research and Development

 

During the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, we spent approximately $709,000$1,848,866 and $894,000,$1,861,103, respectively, on research and development.

 

EmployeesHuman Capital Resources

We are committed to attracting and retaining the brightest and best talent, so investing in human capital is critical to our success. The employee traits we value include industriousness, intellectual curiosity, growth mindset and deeply caring about the quality of work. The human capital measures and objectives that we focus on in managing our business include employee safety, talent acquisition and retention, employee engagement, development and training, diversity and inclusion, and compensation and pay equity. None of our employees is represented by a collective bargaining unit or is a party to a collective bargaining agreement. We believe that our relationship with our employees is good.

The following description provides an overall view of our Company. Since we are a holding company, however, every statement may not be applicable to every subsidiary, particularly since some are located in foreign countries and others operate in industries deemed essential by the DoD and therefore remained at work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Employee Profile

 

As of December 31, 20162020, we had 26154 employees located in the United States, and the United Kingdom and Israel, of whom six54 were engaged in engineering and product development, seven14 in sales and marketing, seven46 in general operations and six40 in general administration and finance. All but two10 of these employees are employed on a full-time basis. None of our employees areis currently represented by a trade union. We consider our relations with our employees to be good.

 

Recent Investments - Avalanche International, Corp.As of December 31, 2020, approximately 36% of our current workforce is female, 64% male, and our average tenure is 10.0 years, an increase of 3.7% from an average tenure of 9.7 years as of December 31, 2019.

 

Talent

A core tenet of our talent system is to both develop talent from within and supplement with external hires. This approach has yielded loyalty and commitment in our employee base which in turn grows our business, our products, and our customers, while adding new employees and external ideas supports a continuous improvement mindset and our goals of a diverse and inclusive workforce. We have made an investment in Avalanche International Corp. (“Avalanche”) through a seriesbelieve that our average tenure of convertible loans in the aggregate amount of approximately $1,530,000ten years as of March 31, 2017. Avalanche isthe end of the fiscal year 2020 reflects the engagement of our employees in this core talent system tenet.

The Company believes it complies with all applicable state, local and international laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the Company operates. All applicants and employees are treated with the same high level of respect regardless of their gender, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.

Employee Engagement and Development

Our employee engagement efforts include our frequent and transparent “all-hands” meetings and executive communications, through which we aim to keep our employees well-informed and to increase transparency. We believe in continual improvement and use employee feedback to drive and improve processes that support our customers and ensure a development stage company whose primarydeep understanding of our employees' needs. We plan to conduct annual confidential employee surveys as we believe that ongoing performance feedback encourages greater engagement in our business includes manufacturing and distributing of premium vape liquid and distributor of vape accessories and theimproves individual performance. Our employees will participate in a 360-degree evaluation process to identify critical capabilities for development and operating of restaurants. More recently,establish new stretch goals.

Objectives and key results are used to drive our business strategy. All our teams participate in March 2017, Avalanche contractually acquired the rightsan annual strategic planning process to MTIX Limited, an English company located in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, U.K. that owns the proprietary rightsidentify objectives for the development of a cost effectivebusiness growth and environmentally friendly material synthesis technology for textile applications. MTIX’s Multiplexed Laser Surface Enhancement “MLSE TM” technology utilizes combined high powered pulsed UV laserinnovation. Our teams and atmospheric plasma to create high energy reaction zone at substrate interface promoting rapid synthesisemployees set goals quarterly to achieve the required functional treatments. On March 15, 2017,Company’s annual objectives.

Pay Equity

Our employee compensation strategy supports three primary objectives: attract and retain the best team members, reflect and reinforce our most important values and align team member interests with shareholder interests in building enduring value. We believe people should be paid for what they do and how they do it, regardless of their gender, race or other personal characteristics. To deliver on that commitment, we announcedbenchmark and set pay ranges based on market data and consider factors such as an employee’s role and experience, the location of their job, and their performance. We also regularly review our compensation practices, both in terms of our overall workforce and individual employees, to ensure our pay is fair and equitable.

Total Rewards

As part of our compensation philosophy, we believe that we had entered intomust offer and maintain market competitive total rewards programs for our employees in order to attract and retain superior talent. In addition to healthy base wages, additional programs include annual bonus opportunities, healthcare and insurance benefits, health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off, family leave, family care resources and flexible work schedules. We anticipate establishing a $50 millionCompany-wide augmented employee stock purchase order with MTIX to manufacture, installplan and service fabric treatment machines that utilize MTIX’s proprietary MLSE™ system. a Company matched 401(k) plan during 2021.

Health and Safety

The purchase ordersuccess of our business is subject to standard terms and conditions including that MTIX can cancel its order at any time subject to payment for expenses incurred and other contractually agreed expenses owed duefundamentally connected to the cancellationwell-being of our people. Accordingly, we are committed to the purchase order. No assurancehealth, safety and wellness of our employees. We provide our employees and their families with access to a variety of flexible and convenient health and welfare programs, including benefits that support their physical and mental health by providing tools and resources to help them improve or maintain their health status; and that offer choice where possible so they can be givencustomize their benefits to meet their needs and the needs of their families. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we implemented significant operating environment changes that MTIX will order $50 millionwe determined were in fabric machinesthe best interest of our employees, as well as the communities in which are thewe operate, and which comply with government regulations. This includes having a significant portion of our employees work from home, while implementing additional safety measures for employees continuing critical on-site work. For further information on this subject and how COVID-19 has affected our company and our subsidiaries, see “Impact of the purchase order.Coronavirus on Our Operations.”

 

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS

 

An investment in our securities is speculative andcommon stock involves a high degree of risk. Our business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected by any of thesesignificant risks. You should carefully consider the following factors as well as therisks and all other information containedset forth in other reports that we file with the SECthis Annual Report before deciding to invest in our securities.common stock. If any of the events or developments described below occurs, our business, financial condition and results of operations may suffer. In that case, the value of our common stock may decline and you could lose all or part of your investment.

You should consider each of the following risk factors and any other information set forth in this Annual Report and the other reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the Company’s financial statements and related notes, in evaluating the Company’s business and prospects. The risks and uncertainties we have described below are not the only ones we face.that impact on the Company’s operations and business. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to usthe Company, or that wethe Company currently deemconsiders immaterial, may also affect ourimpair its business or operations. Past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods. If any of thesethe following risks actually occurs, ourthe Company’s business business prospects,and financial condition, results or results of operationsprospects could be seriously harmed. This could cause the trading price of our shares of common stock to decline, resulting in a loss of all or part of your investment. Please also read carefully the section “Forward-Lookingentitled “Note About Forward-Looking Statements” at the beginning of this Annual Report.

 

We generated operating and net losses for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.Risks Related to Our Company

 

We have historically experienced operating and net losses, and anticipate continuingwill need to experience such lossesraise additional capital to fund our operations in the future. For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we had an operating lossfurtherance of approximately $1,219,000 and $1,003,000 and net losses of approximately $1,122,000 and $1,096,000, respectively. Although we have actively taken steps to increase our revenue and reduce manufacturing and operating costs, we anticipate incurring operating and net losses in the future until we increase revenues.


Our Growth Strategy Is Risky.business plan.

 

Our growth strategy through acquisitions is risky. Some of the companies that we have identified to acquire or make a significant investment in may not have a developed business or are experiencing inefficiencies and incurring losses. Therefore, we may lose our investment in the event that these companies’ businesses do not develop as planned or thatUntil we are unable to achieve the cost efficiencies or reduction of losses as anticipated.

Further, in order to implement our growth plan,profitable, we have hired additional staff and consultants to review potential investments and implement our plan. As a result, we have substantially increased our infrastructure and costs. If we fail to quickly find new companies that provide revenue to offset our costs, we will continue to experience losses. No assurance can be given that our product development and investments will produce sufficient revenues to offset these increases in expenditures.

If we do not satisfy the NYSE requirements for continued listing or are unable to fulfill our compliance plan, our common stock could be delisted from NYSE.

The listing of our common stock on the NYSE MKT is contingent on our compliance with the NYSE MKT's conditions for continued listing. On December 18, 2015, we were notified by the NYSE MKT that we were no longer in compliance with the NYSE MKT continued listing standards because our last reported stockholders' equity was below continued listing standards. The NYSE MKT requires that a listed company's stockholders' equity be $4.0 million or more if it has reported losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in three of its four most recent fiscal years. The NYSE MKT has indicated that we may be required to attain stockholders’ equity of $6.0 million or more if we experience a loss for the year ended December 31, 2016, which we did experience.

Following submission of our compliance plan demonstrating how we intend to regain compliance with the continued listing standards, we were notified on March 9, 2016 that the NYSE MKT granted us a listing extension on the basis of our plan until June 19, 2017. We are subject to periodic review by NYSE MKT staff during the extension period. Failure to make progress consistent with the plan or to regain compliance with the continued listing standards by the end of the extension period could result in our common stock being delisted from the NYSE MKT.

There is no assurance that we will be able to regain compliance with the abovementioned standard or any other applicable NYSE MKT continued listing standard. Upon such an occurrence, trading of our common stock will be suspended by the NYSE MKT and we may be delisted by the NYSE MKT. In the event our common stock is no longer listed for trading on the NYSE MKT, our trading volume and share price may decrease and we may experience further difficulties in raising capital which could materially affect our operations and financial results.

We Will Need to Raise Additional Capital to Increase our Stockholders’ Equity and to Fund our Operations in Furtherance of Our Business Plan.

We will need to quickly raise additional capital in order to increase our stockholders’ equity in order to meet the NYSE MKT continued listing standards and to fund our operations in furtherance of our business plan. The proposed financing may include shares of common stock, shares of preferred stock, warrants to purchase shares of common stock or preferred stock, debt securities, units consisting of the forgoingforegoing securities, equity investments from strategic development partners or some combination of each. Any additional equity financings may be financially dilutive to, and will be dilutive from an ownership perspective to, our stockholders, and such dilution may be significant based upon the size of such financing. Additionally, we cannot assure that such funding will be available on a timely basis, in needed quantities, or on terms favorable to us, if at all.


A Principal Stockholder Has Significant Influence Over Us.

Per its filings with the SEC, Philou Ventures own approximately 30.8% of our current outstanding common stock. As a result, they will be able to exert a significant degree of influence over our management and affairs and over matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors, any merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of the combined company’s assets, and any other significant corporate transaction. Their interests may not always coincide with those of our other stockholders.

A Principal Stockholder Has Certain Rights to Maintain Its Ownership Interest in Us

In connection with entering into a Series B Preferred Stock purchase agreement with Philou Ventures, we granted the right to Philou Ventures to participate in future offering under substantially the same term of such offerings in order to allow Philou Ventures to maintain its ownership interest. If exercised by Philou Ventures, this contractual right granted to it has the effect of allowing Philou Ventures to maintain its interest in us and dilute existing shareholders’ ownership interests.

 

Our Success Is Dependent On Key Management

Our success depends substantially onWe face business disruption and related risks resulting from the performanceoutbreak of certain key officers and personnel, in particular their ability to identify, acquire and operate new businesses and opportunities. The loss of services of Messrs. Ault or Kohnthe novel coronavirus 2019 (“COVID-19”), which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations and curtail our ability to raise financing.

Our business has been disrupted and materially adversely affected by the outbreak of COVID-19. As a result of measures imposed by the governments in affected regions, businesses and schools have been suspended due to quarantines intended to contain this outbreak and many people have been forced to work from home in those areas. The spread of COVID-19 from China to other countries resulted in the Director General of the World Health Organization declaring the outbreak of COVID-19 as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, based on the advice of the Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (2005), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the U.S. issued a warning on February 25, 2020 regarding the likely spread of COVID-19 to the U.S. Since the initial outbreak of COVID-19, international stock markets have reflected the uncertainty associated with the slow-down in the American, Israeli and UK economies. We are still assessing our business operations and system supports and the impact COVID-19 may have on our results and financial condition, but there can be no assurance that this analysis will enable us to avoid part or all of any impact from the spread of COVID-19 or its consequences, including downturns in business sentiment generally or in our sectors in particular.

Our operations are located in Alameda County, CA, Orange County, CA, Las Vegas, NV, Fairfield County, CT, the United Kingdom, Israel and members of our senior management work in Seattle, WA and New York, NY, which is also the location of the offices of the Company’s independent auditor. The Company has been following the recommendations of local health authorities to minimize exposure risk for its employees for the past several weeks, including the temporary closures of its offices and having employees work remotely to the extent possible, which has to an extent adversely affected their efficiency.

Updates by business unit are as follows:

·Ault Global’s corporate headquarters, located in Las Vegas, NV, largely operates normally with adherence to the governor’s Directives and Declarations. Certain individuals deemed to be high risk may work remotely, as required.

·

Ault Global’s finance and accounting offices, located in Newport Beach, CA, have begun working remotely, based on the occupancy and social distancing order from the Orange County Health Officer (http://www.ochealthinfo.com/phs/about/epidasmt/epi/dip/prevention/novel_coronavirus). The administrative staff has tested the secure remote access systems and technology infrastructure to adjust working arrangements for its employees and believes it has adequate internal communications system and can remain operational with a remote staff.

·

Coolisys, located in Milpitas, CA, has largely returned to normal operations with adherence to guidelines published by the Santa Clara Public Health Department. Certain individuals deemed to be high risk may work remotely as required. Coolisys has experienced disruption in its supply chain as a result of the COVID-19 impact on its vendors.

·Microphase operates a production facility in Connecticut. In March 2020, the Defense Department designated Microphase an “essential” operation of critical infrastructure workers as part of the defense industrial base. To limit the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Microphase implemented a series of protocols to limit access to the facility, heighten sanitization, facilitate social distancing and require face coverings. The Company asked workers to travel only as necessary and limit exposure to others. All employees, including management, that do not have to be in the facility work remotely whenever possible. Any employees who come in contact or potential contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or who traveled outside the immediate area went into quarantine and must provide proof of negative tests before returning to work. Rigorous adherence to these protocols enabled Microphase to operate without disruption for 10 months.

In December 2020, five employees tested positive for COVID-19. Microphase temporarily shut down the production facility in Connecticut for a week for deep cleaning and to have all employees tested for COVID-19. Since the outbreak disproportionately affected assembly workers, Microphase’s assembly operations remained shut down for three weeks until all assembly workers had at least 2 negative tests. Operations resumed as workers gradually in late December and the workforce returned to full strength in mid-January 2021.

The disruption to production operations deferred order completion and delayed shipments with a significant decrease in revenue from forecast for December of 2020 and a lingering, but only partial and less substantial, effect on January 2021 and February 2021 revenue. Disruption of production added costs from paying employees who could not work and deferred revenue from delayed shipments.

Microphase continues to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing, face coverings and heightened sanitizing to keep the workforce safe and healthy. Microphase has strictly limited access to its facility and mandated that all employees minimize exposure to the others. All Microphase employees who can work from home will do so while COVID-19 levels remain high in the surrounding communities. However, some workers may still need to work in proximity to others. Management is working with state and federal authorities to get all employees vaccinated on a priority basis as “essential workers” whom the DoD has officially designated as “critical infrastructure workforce” as part of the “defense industrial base.” Some employees have already received vaccinations and we expect all employees to have both vaccinations by the end of March 2021.

·Gresham Power suspended production operations in its Salisbury, UK facility from mid-March through June 2020 before resuming production until a subsequent shutdown in November 2020. Notwithstanding the current lockdown, production operations have resumed to complete work on order for products critically needed for military operations. However, engineers, back office staff and management have worked from home as much as possible throughout the pandemic period and continue to do so. The pandemic has disrupted production at times and delayed contract actions as well as other customer decision making, which decreased revenue realized in 2020. 

·Relec, which does not operate any manufacturing or assembly facilities, has not experienced any material COVID-19 related disruptions to date and continues normal operations notwithstanding the lockdown in the United Kingdom. All employees who can work from home do so. Others who must work at the Wareham site to move product or access systems continue to do so under strict safety protocols with face coverings, social distancing and heightened attention to sanitization. The principal impact on Relec’s operations has come from deferral of some orders and modest decrease in revenue year-over-year. We presently expect business to rebound and resume a steady growth pattern in the third quarter of 2021, although the pandemic may impact this outlook.

·The Israeli government exempted Enertec from pandemic-related lockdown orders to keep production operations open for key projects that impact national security. Approximately 50% of the Enertec’s workforce is working remotely.  Enertec incurred additional costs for increased sanitizing costs, personal protective equipment, increased virtual operations, measures to facilitate social distancing and other precautions to avoid the spread of COVID-19. The pandemic also affected Enertec’s customers and supply chain partners, slowing order processing, materials and parts delivery and service order completion. The principal impact on Enertec’s business has come from deferral of customer decisions and order issuance.  We presently expect business to rebound and resume substantial growth in second quarter of 2021 as orders increase to address deferred, pent up demand.

Due to the unprecedented market conditions domestically and internationally, and the effect COVID-19 has had and will continue to have on the Company’s operations and financial performance, the extent of which is not currently known, the Company is temporarily suspending guidance for 2021. The Company will monitor the situation rigorously and provide business updates as circumstances warrant and resume providing guidance on the Company’s business when management believes that such information would be both reliable and substantively informative.

The duration and extent of the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic depends on future developments that cannot be accurately predicted at this time, such as the severity and transmission rate of the virus or variants thereof, the extent and effectiveness of containment actions and the impact of these and other factors on our employees, customers, partners and vendors. If we are not able to respond to and manage the impact of such events effectively, our business will be harmed.

We have an evolving business model, which increases the complexity of our business.

Our business model has evolved in the past and continues to do so. In prior years we have added additional types of services and product offerings and in some cases, we have modified or discontinued those offerings. We intend to continue to try to offer additional types of products or services, and we do not know whether any of them will be successful. From time to time we have also modified aspects of our business model relating to our product mix. We do not know whether these or any other modifications will be successful. The additions and modifications to our business have increased the complexity of our business and placed significant strain on our management, personnel, operations, systems, technical performance, financial resources, and internal financial control and reporting functions. Future additions to or modifications of our business are likely to have similar effects. Further, any new business or website we launch that is not favorably received by the market could damage our reputation or our brand. The occurrence of any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business.

We are a holding company whose subsidiaries are given certain degree of independence and our failure to integrate our subsidiaries may adversely affect our financial condition.

We have given our subsidiary companies and their executives a certain degree of independence in decision-making. On the one hand, this independence may increase the sense of ownership at all levels, on the other hand it has also increased the difficulty of the integration of operation and management, which has resulted in increased difficulty of management integration. In the event we are not able to successfully manage our subsidiaries this will result in operating difficulties and have a negative impact on our business.

We received an order and a subpoena from the Commission in the investigation now known as “In the Matter of DPW Holdings, Inc.,” the consequences of which are unknown.

We received an order and related subpoena in November of 2019 from the Commission that stated that the staff of the Commission is conducting an investigation now known as In the Matter of DPW Holdings, Inc.,” and that the subpoena was issued as part of an investigation as to whether we and certain of our officers, directors, employees, partners, subsidiaries and/or affiliates, and/or other persons or entities, directly or indirectly, violated certain provisions of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, in connection with the offer and sale of our securities. Certain affiliates and related parties of ours have also been subpoenaed. Although the order states that the Commission may have information relating to such alleged violations, the subpoena expressly provides that the inquiry is not to be construed as an indication by the Commission or its staff that any violations of the federal securities laws have occurred. We have produced documents in response to the subpoena. Since the original subpoena was issued, we received a second subpoena in July of 2020. The Commission may in the future require us to produce additional documents or information, or seek testimony from other members of our management team.

We are unaware of the scope or timing of the Commissioner’s investigation. As a result, we do not know how the Commission’s investigation is proceeding, or when it will be concluded. We also are unable to predict what action, if any, might be taken in the future by the Commission or its staff as a result of the matters that are the subject to its investigation or what impact, if any, the cost of continuing to respond to subpoenas might have on our financial position or results of operations. We have not established any provision for losses in respect of this matter. In addition, complying with any such future requests by the Commission for documents or testimony could distract the time and attention of our officers and directors or divert our resources away from ongoing business matters. This investigation could result in significant legal expenses, the diversion of management’s attention from our business, damage to our business and reputation, and could subject us to a wide range of remedies, including an enforcement action by the Commission. There can be no assurance that any final resolution of this and any similar matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Our inability to successfully integrate new acquisitions could adversely affect our combined business; our operations are widely disbursed.

Our growth strategy through acquisitions is fraught with risk. On June 2, 2017, we acquired a majority interest in Microphase, on May 23, 2018 we acquired Enertec, on November 30, 2020 we acquired Relec and on January 29, 2021, we acquired the Facility in Michigan. Our strategy and business plan are dependent on our ability to successfully integrate Microphase’s, Enertec’s and our other acquisition’s operations, particularly those of Relec and Gresham Power. In addition, while we are based in Las Vegas, NV, our Finance Department is in Newport Beach, CA, Microphase’s operations are located in Shelton, Connecticut, Enertec’s operations are located in Karmiel, Israel and Gresham Power’s operations are located in Salisbury, England. These distant locations and others that we may become involved with in the future will stretch our resources and management time. Further, failure to quickly and adequately integrate all of these operations and personnel could adversely affect our combined business and our ability to achieve our objectives and strategy. No assurance can be given that we will realize synergies in the areas we currently operate.

We are heavily dependent on our senior management, and a loss of a member of our senior management team could cause our stock price to suffer.

If we lose the services of Milton C. Ault III, our Executive Chairman, William B. Horne, our Chief Executive Officer, Ken Cragun, our Chief Financial Officer or Henry Nisser, our President and General Counsel, and/or certain key employees, we may not be able to find appropriate replacements on a timely basis, and our business could be adversely affected. Our existing operations and continued future development depend to a significant extent upon the performance and active participation of these individuals and certain key employees. Although we have entered into employment agreements with Messrs. Ault, Horne and Nisser, and we may enter into employment agreements with additional key employees in the future, we cannot guarantee that we will be successful in retaining the services of these individuals. If we were to lose any of these individuals, we may not be able to find appropriate replacements on a timely basis and our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

We rely on highly skilled personnel and the continuing efforts of our executive officers and, if we are unable to retain, motivate or hire qualified personnel, our business may be severely disrupted.

Our performance largely depends on the talents, knowledge, skills, know-how and efforts of highly skilled individuals and in particular, the expertise held by our Executive Chairman, Milton C. Ault III. His absence, were it to occur, would materially and adversely impact development and implementation of our projects and businesses. Our future success depends on our continuing ability to identify, hire, develop, motivate and retain highly skilled personnel for all areas of our organization. Our continued ability to compete effectively depends on our ability to attract, among others, new technology developers and to retain and motivate our existing contractors. If one or more of our executive officers are unable or unwilling to continue in their present positions, we may not be able to replace them readily, if at all. Therefore, our business may be severely disrupted, and we may incur additional expenses to recruit and retain new officers. In addition, if any of our executives joins a competitor or forms a competing company, we may lose some customers.

We may be classified as an inadvertent investment company.

We are not engaged in the business of investing, reinvesting, or trading in securities, and we do not hold ourselves out as being engaged in those activities. Under the Investment Company Act, however, a company may be deemed an investment company under section 3(a)(1)(C) of the Investment Company Act if the value of its investment securities is more than 40% of its total assets (exclusive of government securities and cash items) on a consolidated basis.

Our lending subsidiary, Digital Power Lending, LLC (“DP Lending”), operates under California Finance Lending License #60DBO-77905. Per the Investment Company Act of 1940 companies with substantially all their business confined to making small loans, industrial banking or similar business, such as DP Lending, are excluded from the definition of an investment company.

We have commenced digital asset mining, the output of which is cryptocurrencies, which the Commission has indicated it deems a security. In the event that the digital assets held by us exceed 40% of our total assets, exclusive of cash, we inadvertently become an investment company. An inadvertent investment company can avoid being classified as an investment company if it can rely on one of the exclusions under the Investment Company Act. One such exclusion, Rule 3a-2 under the Investment Company Act, allows an inadvertent investment company a grace period of one year from the earlier of (a) the date on which an issuer owns securities and/or cash having a value exceeding 50% of the issuer’s total assets on either a consolidated or unconsolidated basis and (b) the date on which an issuer owns or proposes to acquire investment securities having a value exceeding 40% of the value of such issuer’s total assets (exclusive of government securities and cash items) on an unconsolidated basis. We are putting in place policies that we expect will work to keep the investment securities held by us at less than 40% of our total assets, which may include acquiring assets with our cash, liquidating our investment securities or seeking a no-action letter from the Commission if we are unable to acquire sufficient assets or liquidate sufficient investment securities in a timely manner.

As Rule 3a-2 is available to a company no more than once every three years, and assuming no other exclusion were available to us, we would have to keep within the 40% limit for at least three years after we cease being an inadvertent investment company. This may limit our ability to make certain investments or enter into joint ventures that could otherwise have a positive impact on our earnings. In any event, we do not intend to become an investment company engaged in the business of investing and trading securities.

Classification as an investment company under the Investment Company Act requires registration with the Commission. If an investment company fails to register, it would have to stop doing almost all business, and its contracts would become voidable. Registration is time consuming and restrictive and would require a restructuring of our operations, and we would be very constrained in the kind of business we could do as a registered investment company. Further, we would become subject to substantial regulation concerning management, operations, transactions with affiliated persons and portfolio composition, and would need to file reports under the Investment Company Act regime. The cost of such compliance would result in our incurring substantial additional expenses, and the failure to register if required would have a materially adverse impact to conduct our operations.

We will not be able to successfully execute our business strategy if we are deemed to be an investment company under the Investment Company Act.

U.S. companies that have more than 100 stockholders or are publicly traded in the U.S. and are, or hold themselves out as being, engaged primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading in securities are subject to regulation under the Investment Company Act. Unless a substantial part of our assets consists of, and a substantial part of our income is derived from, interests in majority-owned subsidiaries and companies that we primarily control, we may be required to register and become subject to regulation under the Investment Company Act. If bitcoin and other virtual currencies were to be deemed securities for purposes of the Investment Company Act, or if we were deemed to own but not operate one or more of our other subsidiaries, we would have difficulty avoiding classification and regulation as an investment company.

If we were deemed to be, and were required to register as, an investment company, we would be forced to comply with substantive requirements under the Investment Company Act, including limitations on our ability to borrow, limitations on our capital structure; restrictions on acquisitions of interests in associated companies, prohibitions on transactions with affiliates, restrictions on specific investments, and compliance with reporting, record keeping, voting, proxy disclosure and other rules and regulations. If we were forced to comply with the rules and regulations of the Investment Company Act, our operations would significantly change, and we would be prevented from successfully executing our business strategy. To avoid regulation under the Investment Company Act and related rules promulgated by the Commission, we could need to sell bitcoin and other assets which we would otherwise want to retain and could be unable to sell assets which we would otherwise want to sell. In addition, we could be forced to acquire additional, or retain existing, income-generating or loss-generating assets which we would not otherwise have acquired or retained and could need to forgo opportunities to acquire bitcoin and other assets that would benefit our business. If we were forced to sell, buy or retain assets in this manner, we could be prevented from successfully executing our business strategy.

Securitization of our assets subjects us to various risks.

We may securitize assets to generate cash for funding new investments. We refer to the term securitize to describe a form of leverage under which a company (sometimes referred to as an “originator” or “sponsor”) transfers income producing assets to a single-purpose, bankruptcy-remote subsidiary (also referred to as a “special purpose entity” or “SPE”), which is established solely for the purpose of holding such assets and entering into a structured finance transaction. The SPE would then issue notes secured by such assets. The special purpose entity may issue the notes in the capital markets either publicly or privately to a variety of investors, including banks, non-bank financial institutions and other investors. There may be a single class of notes or multiple classes of notes, the most senior of which carries less credit risk and the most junior of which may carry substantially the same credit risk as the equity of the SPE.

An important aspect of most debt securitization transactions is that the sale and/or contribution of assets into the SPE be considered a true sale and/or contribution for accounting purposes and that a reviewing court would not consolidate the SPE with the operations of the originator in the event of the originator's bankruptcy based on equitable principles. Viewed as a whole, a debt securitization seeks to lower risk to the note purchasers by isolating the assets collateralizing the securitization in an SPE that is not subject to the credit and bankruptcy risks of the originator. As a result of this perceived reduction of risk, debt securitization transactions frequently achieve lower overall leverage costs for originators as compared to traditional secured lending transactions.

In accordance with the above description, to securitize loans, we may create a wholly owned subsidiary and contribute a pool of our assets to such subsidiary. The SPE may be funded with, among other things, whole loans or interests from other pools and such loans may or may not be rated. The SPE would then sell its notes to purchasers whom we would expect to be willing to accept a lower interest rate and the absence of any recourse against us to invest in a pool of income producing assets to which none of our creditors would have access. We would retain all or a portion of the equity in the SPE. An inability to successfully securitize portions of our portfolio or otherwise leverage our portfolio through secured and unsecured borrowings could limit our ability to grow our business and fully execute our business strategy, and could decrease our earnings, if any. However, the successful securitization of portions of our portfolio exposes us to a risk of loss for the equity we retain in the SPE and might expose us to greater risk on our remaining portfolio because the assets we retain may tend to be those that are riskier and more likely to generate losses. A successful securitization may also impose financial and operating covenants that restrict our business activities and may include limitations that could hinder our ability to finance additional loans and investments. The Investment Company Act may also impose restrictions on the structure of any securitizations.

Interests we hold in the SPE, if any, will be subordinated to the other interests issued by the SPE. As such, we will only receive cash distributions on such interests if the SPE has made all cash interest and other required payments on all other interests it has issued. In addition, our subordinated interests will likely be unsecured and rank behind all of the secured creditors, known or unknown, of the SPE, including the holders of the senior interests it has issued. Consequently, to the extent that the value of the SPE's portfolio of assets has been reduced as a result of conditions in the credit markets, or as a result of defaults, the value of the subordinated interests we retain would be reduced. Securitization imposes on us the same risks as borrowing except that our risk in a securitization is limited to the amount of subordinated interests we retain, whereas in a borrowing or debt issuance by us directly we would be at risk for the entire amount of the borrowing or debt issuance.

We may also engage in transactions utilizing SPEs and securitization techniques where the assets sold or contributed to the SPE remain on our balance sheet for accounting purposes. If, for example, we sell the assets to the SPE with recourse or provide a guarantee or other credit support to the SPE, its assets will remain on our balance sheet. Consolidation would also generally result if we, in consultation with our auditors, determine that consolidation would result in a more accurate reflection of our assets, liabilities and results of operations. In these structures, the risks will be essentially the same as in other securitization transactions but the assets will remain our assets for purposes of the limitations described above on investing in assets that are not qualifying assets and the leverage incurred by the SPE will be treated as borrowings incurred by us for purposes of our limitation on the issuance of senior securities.

We may not be able to utilize our net operating loss carry forwards.

At December 31, 2020, we had Federal net operating loss carry forwards (“NOLs”) for income tax purposes of approximately $18,568,667 after taking into consideration of the §382 limitation. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act signed in to law on March 27, 2020 provided that NOLs generated in a taxable year beginning in 2018, 2019, or 2020, may now be carried back five years and forward indefinitely. In addition, the 80% taxable income limitation is temporarily removed, allowing NOLs to fully offset net taxable income. However, we do not know if or when we will have any earnings and capital gains against which we could apply these carry forwards. Furthermore, as a result of changes in the ownership of our common stock, our ability to use our federal NOLs will be limited under Internal Revenue Code Section 382. State NOLs are subject to similar limitations in many cases. As a result, our substantial NOLs may not have any value to us.

Our corporate structure and intercompany arrangements are subject to the tax laws of various jurisdictions, and we could face greater than anticipated tax liabilities, which would harm our results of operations.

We are subject to tax laws in the U.S. and certain foreign jurisdictions, including Israel and the United Kingdom. Our income tax obligations are based in part on our corporate structure and intercompany arrangements. The tax laws applicable to our business are increasingly complex, are subject to interpretation and their application can be uncertain. The amount of taxes we pay in the jurisdictions in which we operate could increase substantially as a result of changes in the applicable tax principles, including increased tax rates, new tax laws or revised interpretations of existing tax laws and precedents.

We are subject to the examination of our income tax returns by the Internal Revenue Service and foreign tax authorities in the jurisdictions in which we operate, and we may be subject to assessments or audits in the future in any such jurisdictions. The tax authorities in these jurisdictions may aggressively interpret their laws in an effort to raise additional tax revenue and may claim that various withholding requirements apply to us or our subsidiaries, challenge the availability to us or our subsidiaries of certain benefits under tax treaties, and challenge our methodologies for valuing developed technology or intercompany arrangements or our revenue recognition policies, which could result in an increase of our worldwide effective tax rate and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and operating results.

If we are required to recognize non-cash impairment charges related to goodwill, it could have a material adverse impact on our operating results.

We carry a significant amount of goodwill on our balance sheet. We have recorded approximately $9.6 million of goodwill in connection with several acquisitions, including the acquisition of Microphase in 2017, the acquisition of Enertec in 2018 and the acquisition of Relec in November 2020. We assess goodwill for impairment at least annually during the fourth fiscal quarter and whenever facts or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of goodwill may be impaired. Impairment analysis involves comparing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value, we record an impairment charge. Determination of fair value requires considerable judgment and is sensitive to changes in underlying assumptions, estimates and market factors. Those assessments may be affected by significant negative industry or general economic trends, disruptions to our business and unexpected significant changes or planned changes in our use of the assets. To the extent any of our acquisitions, including Relec, do not perform as anticipated and our underlying assumptions and estimates related to the fair value determination are not met, the value of such assets may be negatively affected and we may be required to record impairment charges. If we are required to recognize noncash charges related to impairment of goodwill, our results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

Risks Related to Related Party Transactions

There may be conflicts of interest between our company and certain of our related parties and their respective directors and officers which might not be resolved in our favor. More importantly, there may be conflicts between certain of our related parties and their respective directors and officers which might not be resolved in our favor. These risks are set forth below appurtenant to the relevant related party.

Ault & Company

Our relationship with Ault & Company may enhance the difficulty inherent in obtaining financing for us as well as expose us to certain conflicts of interest.

At December 31,2020, Ault & Company, of which Milton C. Ault is the chief executive officer, beneficially owned 1,362,795 shares of our common stock, consisting of 1,078,967 shares of common stock owned, 275,862 shares of common stock underlying the 8% Convertible Promissory Note in the outstanding principal amount of $400,000 sold by us to Ault & Company on February 5, 2020, assuming no conversion of accrued, unpaid interest on this note, warrants to purchase 94 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable and shares owned by Philou Ventures, of which Ault & Company, Inc. is the Manager, consisting of: (i) 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock that are convertible into 2,232 shares of common stock, (ii) warrants to purchase 2,232 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the date hereof and (iii) 3,408 shares of common stock. Assuming Ault & Company converted its note on the date of this Annual Report, Ault & Company would own a number of shares of common stock equal to 4.9% of the number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding on the date hereof.

Given the close relationship between Ault & Company on the one hand, and our company on the other, it is far from inconceivable that we could enter into additional securities purchase agreements with Ault & Company.

Although we have relied on Philou, which no longer beneficially owns a meaningful number of our shares of common stock, to finance us in the past, and anticipate that Ault & Company may purchase shares of our Series C Preferred Stock under an agreement providing for the purchase thereof, we cannot assure you that either Philou or Ault & Company will assist us in the future. We would far prefer to rely on these entities’ assistance compared to other sources of financing as the terms they provide us are in general more favorable to us than we could obtain elsewhere. However, Messrs. Ault, Horne and Nisser could face a conflict of interest in that they serve on the board of directors of each of Ault & Company and our company. If they determine that an investment in our company is not in Ault & Company’s best interest, we could be forced to seek financing from other sources that would not necessarily be likely to provide us with equally favorable terms.

Other conflicts of interest between us, on the one hand, and Ault & Company, on the other hand, may arise relating to commercial or strategic opportunities or initiatives. Mr. Ault, as the controlling shareholder of Ault & Company, may not resolve such conflicts in our favor. For example, we cannot assure you that Ault & Company would not pursue opportunities to provide financing to other entities whether or not it currently has a relationship with such other entities. Furthermore, our ability to explore alternative sources of financing other than Ault & Company may be constrained due to Mr. Ault’s vision for us and he may not wish for us to receive any financing at all other than from entities that he controls.

Alzamend Neuro, Inc.

Our relationship with Alzamend Neuro may expose us to certain conflicts of interest.

In August 2020, Alzamend Neuro entered into a securities purchase agreement with our company to sell a convertible promissory note of Alzamend Neuro, in the aggregate principal amount of $50,000 and issue a 5-year warrant to purchase 16,667 of shares of its common stock. The convertible promissory note bears interest at 8% per annum, which principal and all accrued and unpaid interest are due six months after the date of issuance. The principal and interest earned on the convertible promissory note may be converted into shares of the Alzamend Neuro’s common stock at $1.50 per share. The exercise price of the warrant is $3.00 per share.

In December 2020, we provided Alzamend Neuro $750,000 in short-term advances and in March of 2021 we entered into an agreement with Alzamend under which we purchased $4 million worth of shares of Alzamend Neuro’s common stock, with the ability to purchase another $6 million worth of such shares, provided that Alzamend Neuro meets certain milestones.

Messrs. Ault, Horne and Nisser could face a conflict of interest in that they serve on the board of directors of each of Alzamend Neuro and our company. Mr. Cragun, our chief financial officer is also the chief financial officer of Alzamend Neuro.

Avalanche International Corp.

We have lent a substantial amount of funds to Avalanche, a related party, whose ability to repay us is subject to significant doubt and it may not be in our stockholders’ best interest to convert the notes into shares of Avalanche common stock even if we had a reasonably viable means of doing so.

On September 6, 2017, we entered into a Loan and Security Agreement with Avalanche (as amended, the “AVLP Loan Agreement”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017 pursuant to which we will provide Avalanche a non-revolving credit facility. The AVLP Loan Agreement was recently increased to up to $15,000,000 and extended to December 31, 2023.

At December 31, 2020, we had provided Avalanche with $11,269,136 pursuant to the AVLP Loan Agreement. The warrants issued in conjunction with the non-revolving credit facility entitles us to purchase up to 22,538,272 shares of Avalanche common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of five years. The exercise price of $0.50 is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis.

While Avalanche received funds from a third party in the amount of $2,750,000 in early April of 2019 in consideration for its issuance of a convertible promissory note to such third party (the “Third Party Note”), $2,676,220 was used to pay an outstanding receivable due us and no amount was used to repay the debt Avalanche owes us pursuant to the AVLP Loan Agreement. There is doubt as to whether Avalanche will be able to repay this amount on a timely basis, if at all, unless it generates significant net income from its operations or receives additional financing from another source; even then, unless such financing consists solely of the issuance by Avalanche of its equity securities, it will only add to the amount that Avalanche owes other parties, which would in all likelihood not be provided unless we agreed to subordinate our right to repayment to such other third party source.

There is currently no liquid market for the Avalanche common stock. Consequently, even if we were inclined to convert the debt owed us by Avalanche into shares of its common stock, our ability to sell such shares would be severely limited. Avalanche is not current in its filings with the Commission and is not required to register the shares of its common stock underlying the New Note or any other loan arrangement we have made with Avalanche described above. Further, even if Avalanche were willing to register such shares, it would not be permitted to do so until it has registered the shares of its common stock underlying the Third Party Note.

As a result, there is some doubt as to whether Avalanche will ever have the ability to repay its debt to us, or if we convert the debt owed us by Avalanche into shares of its common stock, our ability to convert such shares into cash through the sale of such shares would be severely limited until such time, if ever, a liquid market for Avalanche’s common stock develops. If we are unable to recoup our investment in Avalanche in the foreseeable future or at all, such failure would have a materially adverse effect on our financial condition and future prospects.

Originally, the loans we made to Avalanche were secured by a lien on all of Avalanche’s assets. Presently, we only have third priority interest.

Originally, the loans we made to Avalanche were secured by a lien on all of Avalanche’s assets. When Avalanche entered into the Exchange Agreement with MTIX (see below), the former owners of MTIX were granted a first priority interest in all of MTIX’s assets, which constitute virtually all of Avalanche’s assets and reduced our interest to that of a second position, greatly diminishing its value. When Avalanche issued the Third Party Note referred to above, it granted the third party a first priority security interest in all its assets, to include those comprised of MTIX. Both we and the former owners of MTIX consented to the subordination of our respective security interests. Since our security interests have been reduced to a third position, we will have no ability to use Avalanche’s assets to offset any default in Avalanche’s debt obligations to us unless and until the two other security interests are terminated, which would not occur until Avalanche’s debts to the senior creditors have been repaid. We do not anticipate that Avalanche will repay its debts to these creditors within the foreseeable future and will therefore have no recourse should Avalanche default on its debts to us during this period of time. Any failure by Avalanche to repay us would therefore have a materially adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and future prospects. We have not obtained key person insurance

Milton C. Ault, III and William Horne, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, respectively, and two of our directors are directors of Avalanche. In addition, Philou is the controlling stockholder of Avalanche.

Milton C. Ault, III and William Horne, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, respectively, and two of our directors, are also directors of Avalanche. In addition, Philou is the controlling stockholder of Avalanche. Certain conflicts of interest between us, on the one hand, and Avalanche, on the other hand, may arise relating to commercial or strategic opportunities or initiatives, in addition to the conflicts related to the debt that Avalanche owes us. For example, Messrs. Ault and Horne may find it difficult to determine how to meet their fiduciary duties to us as well as Avalanche, which could result in a less favorable result for these individuals.us than would be the case if they were solely directors of our company. Further, even if Messrs. Ault and Horne were able to successfully meet their fiduciary obligations to us and Avalanche, the fact that they are members of the board of directors of both companies could attenuate their ability to focus on our business and best interests, possibly to the detriment of both companies. Mr. Ault’s control of Philou through Ault & Company only enhances the risk inherent in having Messrs. Ault and Horne serve as directors of both our company and Avalanche.

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry - Overview

If we fail to anticipate and adequately respond to rapid technological changes in our industry, including evolving industry-wide standards, in a timely and cost-effective manner, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

The markets in which we operate are characterized by technological changes. Such changes, including evolving industry standards, changes in customer requirements and new product introductions and enhancements, could render our products obsolete. Accordingly, we are required to constantly monitor and anticipate technological changes in our industry and develop new product offerings and technologies or adapt or modify our existing offerings and technologies to keep pace with technological advances in our industry and remain competitive.

Our ability to implement our business strategy and continue to grow our revenues will depend on a number of factors, including our continuing ability to:

·identify emerging technological trends in our current and target markets;
·identify additional uses for our existing technology to address customer needs in our current and future markets;
·enhance our offerings by adding innovative features that differentiate our offerings from those of our competitors; and
·design, develop, manufacture, assemble, test, market and support new products and enhancements in a timely and cost-effective manner.

 

We Have Pledged All Of Our Assets.believe that, to remain competitive in the future, we will need to continue to invest significant financial resources in developing new offerings and technologies or to adapt or modify our existing offerings and technologies, including through internal research and development, strategic acquisitions and joint ventures or other arrangements. However, these efforts may be more costly than we anticipate and there can be no assurance that they will be successful.

 

We have entered into a 12% Secured Convertible Note with a face value of $530,000 due October 20, 2019, that is secured by all of our assets. The 12% Secured Convertible Note includes standard events of default. If we default under the 12% Secured Convertible Note, the holder may accelerate the due dateare unable to identify, attract, train and retain qualified personnel, especially our design and technical personnel, our business and results of our repayment obligation. At such time,operations would be materially and adversely affected and we may not have enough available cashbe able to repay the 12% Secured Convertible Note and the holder could take control of and selleffectively execute our pledged assets. An event of default could significantly harm our financial condition, operating results, business and prospects and cause the price of our common stock to decline.strategy.

 

Our performance and future success largely depends on our continuing ability to identify, attract, train, retain and motivate qualified personnel, including our management, sales and marketing, finance and in particular our engineering, design and technical personnel. For example, we currently have limited number of qualified personnel for the assembling and testing processes. We depend on Advice Electronics Ltd. (“Advice”) to maintain the technology used to manufacture our products and to manufacture some of our products. We also depend on the right to manufacture certain products subject to royalty payments with Advice.

In January 2016, Telkoor, a prior affiliate, sold its entire commercial assets to Advice which included without limitation product IP, manufacturing rights, customer base, inventory, staff and technological capabilities. Following such transaction, we entered into a manufacturing and distribution agreement with Advice. This agreement allows us to manufacture certain Advice products (formerly owned by Telkoor) through August 2017 against royalty payments. From August 2017 through December 2020, subject to Advice's consent,do not know whether we will be allowedable to retain all these personnel as we continue distributing and selling certain Advice products while keeping product branding underto pursue our brand, after which we will be entitled to distribute the products under Digital Power Corporation brand until December 2020.


We depend on Advice tobusiness strategy. Our engineering, design and retain product technology uptechnical personnel represent a significant asset. The competition for qualified personnel in our industry is intense and constrains our ability to date and for manufacturing capabilities for certainattract qualified personnel. The loss of the products that we sell. If Advice is unableservices of one or unwillingmore of our key employees, especially of our key engineering, design and technical personnel, or our inability to continue designing or manufacturing our products in required volumesattract, retain and withmotivate qualified personnel could have a certain level of quality on a timely basis, that could lead to loss of sales and adversely affect our operating results and cash position. We also depend on Advice's intellectual property and ability to transfer production to third party manufacturers. Failure to obtain new products in a timely manner or delay in delivery of products to customers will have anmaterial adverse effect on our ability to meet our customers’ expectations. In addition, we operate in highly competitive markets wherebusiness, financial condition and operating results.

Our future results will depend on our ability to sell Advice’smaintain and expand our existing sales channels and to build out marketing, business development and sales functions for the operating subsidiaries.

To grow our business, we must add new customers for our products could be adversely affected by Advice's agreementsin addition to retaining and increasing sales to our current customers. Currently, only Relec, the operating subsidiary that we acquired in November 2020, has an effective sales force focused on establishing relationships with third parties, long lead-timescustomers that we expect to endure over time. In other subsidiaries, we have historically relied on key executives to drive growth through return business with existing customers. Building out marketing, business development and sales functions in all operating subsidiaries is critical to drive significant growth in line with our strategic plans. We plan to contract for marketing services to improve our websites, manage public relations and optimize our social media presence. Failure to recruit and retain the high costbusiness development and sale personnel to execute on outreach and capture of Advice’s products. Also, in 2012, Telkoor’s products manufacturing lead-times increased, which hinderednew business, or the failure of those new hires or marketing services to perform as expected, will limit our ability to respond toachieve our customers’ needs in timely manner. Advice's principal offices, research and development and manufacturing facilities are located in Israel. Political, economic, and military conditions in Israel directly affect Advice operations. We are also dependent upon Advice’s terms and conditions with its contract manufacturers for some of our products, which terms and conditions may not always be in our best interest. In 2010, we purchased certain IP from Telkoor in order to reduce our dependency on Telkoor with respect to a certain line of products. We also entered into a Manufacturing Rights Agreement with Advice in 2016, pursuant to which we were granted the non-exclusive right to directly place purchase orders for certain products from a third party manufacturer in consideration for payment of royalties to Advice. This agreement currently accounts for a significant portion of our sales. In the event this agreement is terminated for any reason, it would materially affect our financial position.growth targets.

 

We are dependent upon our ability, and our contract manufacturersmanufacturers’ ability, to timely procure electronic components.

 

Because of the global economy, many raw material vendors have reduced capacities, closed production lines and, in some cases, even discontinued their operations. As a result, there is a global shortage of certain electronic or mineral components, which has extendedmay extend our production lead-time and our production costs. Some materials are no longer available to support some of our products, thereby requiring us to search for cross materials or, even worse, redesign some of our products to support currently-available materials. Such redesign efforts may require certain regulatory and safety agency re-submittals, which may cause further production delays. While we have initiated actions that we believe will limit our exposure to such problems, the dynamic business conditions in many of our markets may challenge the solutions that have been put in place, and issues may recur in the future.

 

In addition, some of our products are manufactured, assembled and tested by third party subcontractors and contract manufacturers located in Asia. While we have had relationships with many of these third parties in the past, we cannot predict how or whether these relationships will continue in the future. In addition, changes in management, financial viability, manufacturing demand or capacity, or other factors, at these third parties could hurt our ability to manufacture our products.

Our strategic focus on our custom power supply solution competencies and concurrent cost reduction plans may be ineffective or may limit our ability to compete.

 

As a result of our strategic focus on custom power supply solutions, we will continue to devote significant resources to developing and manufacturing custom power supply solutions for a large number of customers, where each product represents a uniquely tailored solution for a specific customer’s requirements. Failure to meet these customer product requirements or a failure to meet production schedules and/or product quality standards may put us at risk with one or more of these customers. Moreover, changes in market conditions and strategic changes at the direction of our customers may affect their decision to continue to purchase from us. The loss of one or more of our significant custom power supply solution customers could have a material adverse impact on our revenues, business or financial condition.

We have also implemented a series of initiatives designed to increase efficiency and reduce costs. While we believe that these actions will reduce costs, they may not be sufficient to achieve the required operational efficiencies that will enable us to respond more quickly to changes in the market or result in the improvements in our business that we anticipate. In such event, we may be forced to take additional cost-reducing initiatives, including those involving our personnel, which may negatively impact quarterly earnings and profitability as we account for severance and other related costs. In addition, there is the risk that such measures could have long-term adverse effects on our business by reducing our pool of talent, decreasing or slowing improvements in our products or services, making it more difficult for us to respond to customers, limiting our ability to increase production quickly if and when the demand for our solutions increases and limiting our ability to hire and retain key personnel. These circumstances could cause our earnings to be lower than they otherwise might be.


We are dependent upon our ability to attract, retain and motivate our key personnel.

Our success depends on our ability to attract, retain and motivate our key management personnel, including, but not limited to, our President and Chief Executive Officer, our Vice Preseident of Finance, marketing and sales personnel, and key engineers necessary to implement our business plan and to grow our business. Competition for certain specific technical and management skill sets is intense. If we are unable to identify and hire the personnel that we need to succeed, or if one or more of our present key employees were to cease to be associated with us, our future results could be adversely affected.

We depend upon a few major customers for a majority of our revenues, and the loss of any of these customers, or the substantial reduction in the quantity of products that they purchase from us, would significantly reduce our revenues and net income.

 

We currently depend upon a few major OEMs and other customers for a significant portion of our revenues. If our major OEM customers will reduce or cancel their orders scaling back some of their activities, our revenues and net income would be significantly reduced. Furthermore, diversions in the capital spending of certain of these customers to new network elements have and could continue to lead to their reduced demand for our products, which could, in turn, have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. If the financial condition of one or more of our major customers should deteriorate, or if they have difficulty acquiring investment capital due to any of these or other factors, a substantial decrease in our revenues would likely result. We are dependent on the electronic equipment industry, and accordingly will be affected by the impact on that industry of current economic conditions.

 

Substantially all of our existing customers are in the electronic equipment industry, and they manufacture products that are subject to rapid technological change, obsolescence, and large fluctuations in demand. This industry is further characterized by intense competition and volatility. The OEMs serving this industry are pressured for increased product performance and lower product prices. OEMs, in turn, make similar demands on their suppliers, such as us, for increased product performance and lower prices. Such demands may adversely affect our ability to successfully compete in certain markets or our ability to sustain our gross margins.

 

Our reliance on subcontract manufacturers to manufacture certain aspects of our products involves risks, including delays in product shipments and reduced control over product quality.

 

Since we do not own significant manufacturing facilities, we must rely on, and will continue to rely on, a limited number of subcontract manufacturers to manufacture our power supply products. Our reliance upon such subcontract manufacturers involves several risks, including reduced control over manufacturing costs, delivery times, reliability and quality of components, unfavorable currency exchange fluctuations, and continued inflationary pressures on many of the raw materials used in the manufacturing of our power supply products. If we were to encounter a shortage of key manufacturing components from limited sources of supply, or experience manufacturing delays caused by reduced manufacturing capacity, inability of our subcontract manufacturers to procure raw materials, the loss of key assembly subcontractors, difficulties associated with the transition to our new subcontract manufacturers or other factors, we could experience lost revenues, increased costs, and delays in, or cancellations or rescheduling of, orders or shipments, any of which would materially harm our business.

 

We outsource, and are dependent upon developer partners for, the development of some of our custom design products.

 

We made an operational decision to outsource some of our custom design products to numerous developer partners. This business structure will remain in place until the custom design volume justifies expanding our in house capabilities. Incomplete product designs that do not fully comply with the customer specifications and requirements might affect our ability to transition to a volume production stage of the custom designed product where the revenue goals are dependent on the high volume of custom product production. Furthermore, we rely on the design partnerspartners’ ability to provide high quality prototypes of the designed product for our customer approval as a critical stage to approve production.


 

We face intense industry competition, price erosion and product obsolescence, which, in turn, could reduce our profitability.

 

We operate in an industry that is generally characterized by intense competition. We believe that the principal bases of competition in our markets are breadth of product line, quality of products, stability, reliability and reputation of the provider, along with cost. Quantity discounts, price erosion, and rapid product obsolescence due to technological improvements are therefore common in our industry as competitors strive to retain or expand market share. Product obsolescence can lead to increases in unsaleable inventory that may need to be written off and, therefore, could reduce our profitability. Similarly, price erosion can reduce our profitability by decreasing our revenues and our gross margins. In fact, we have seen price erosion over the last several years on most of the products we sell, and we expect additional price erosion in the future.

Our future results are dependent on our ability to establish, maintain and expand our manufacturersmanufacturers’ representative OEM relationships and our other relationships.

 

We market and sell our products through domestic and international OEM relationships and other distribution channels, such as manufacturersmanufacturers’ representatives and distributors. Our future results are dependent on our ability to establish, maintain and expand our relationships with OEMs as well as with manufacturers’ representatives and distributors to sell our products. If, however, the third parties with whom we have entered into such OEM and other arrangements should fail to meet their contractual obligations, cease doing, or reduce the amount of their, business with us or otherwise fail to meet their own performance objectives, customer demand for our products could be adversely affected, which would have an adverse effect on our revenues.

 

We may not be able to procure necessary key components for our products, or we may purchase too much inventory or the wrong inventory.

 

The power supply industry, and the electronics industry as a whole, can be subject to business cycles. During periods of growth and high demand for our products, we may not have adequate supplies of inventory on hand to satisfy our customers' needs. Furthermore, during these periods of growth, our suppliers may also experience high demand and, therefore, may not have adequate levels of the components and other materials that we require to build products so that we can meet our customers' needs. Our inability to secure sufficient components to build products for our customers could negatively impact our sales and operating results. We may choose to mitigate this risk by increasing the levels of inventory for certain key components. Increased inventory levels can increase the potential risk for excess and obsolescence should our forecasts fail to materialize or if there are negative factors impacting our customerscustomers’ end markets. If we purchase too much inventory or the wrong inventory, we may have to record additional inventory reserves or write-off the inventory, which could have a material adverse effect on our gross margins and on our results of operations.

 

Although we depend on sales of our legacy products for a meaningful portion of our revenues, these products are mature and their sales will decline.

 

A relatively large portion of our sales have historically been attributable to our legacy products. We expect that these products may continue to account for a meaningful percentage of our revenues for the foreseeable future. However, these sales are declining. Although we are unable to predict future prices for our legacy products, we expect that prices for these products will continue to be subject to significant downward pressure in certain markets for the reasons described above. Accordingly, our ability to maintain or increase revenues will be dependent on our ability to expand our customer base, to increase unit sales volumes of these products and to successfully, develop, introduce and sell new products such as custom design and value addedvalue-added products. We cannot assure you that we will be able to expand our customer base, increase unit sales volumes of existing products or develop, introduce and/or sell new products.


Our operating results may vary from quarter to quarter.

Our operating results have in the past been subject to quarter-to-quarter fluctuations, and we expect that these fluctuations will continue, and may increase in magnitude, in future periods. Demand for our products is driven by many factors, including the availability of funding for our products in our customers’ capital budgets. There is a trend for some of our customers to place large orders near the end of a quarter or fiscal year, in part to spend remaining available capital budget funds. Seasonal fluctuations in customer demand for our products driven by budgetary and other concerns can create corresponding fluctuations in period-to-period revenues, and we therefore cannot assure you that our results in one period are necessarily indicative of our revenues in any future period. In addition, the number and timing of large individual sales and the ability to obtain acceptances of those sales, where applicable, have been difficult for us to predict, and large individual sales have, in some cases, occurred in quarters subsequent to those we anticipated, or have not occurred at all. The loss or deferral of one or more significant sales in a quarter could harm our operating results for such quarter. It is possible that, in some quarters, our operating results will be below the expectations of public market analysts or investors. In such events, or in the event adverse conditions prevail, the market price of our common stock may decline significantly.

 

Failure of our information technology infrastructure to operate effectively could adversely affect our business.

 

We depend heavily on information technology infrastructure to achieve our business objectives. If a problem occurs that impairs this infrastructure, the resulting disruption could impede our ability to record or process orders, manufacture and ship in a timely manner, or otherwise carry on business in the normal course. Any such events could cause us to lose customers or revenue and could require us to incur significant expense to remediate.

 

We are subject to certain governmental regulatory restrictions relating to our international sales.

 

Some of our products are subject to International Traffic In Arms Regulation (“ITAR”ITAR), which are interpreted, enforced and administered by the U.S. Department of State. ITAR regulation controls not only the export, import and trade of certain products specifically designed, modified, configured or adapted for military systems, but also the export of related technical data and defense services as well as foreign production. Any delays in obtaining the required export, import or trade licenses for products subject to ITAR regulation and rules could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and/or operating results. In addition, changes in United States export and import laws that require us to obtain additional export and import licenses or delays in obtaining export or import licenses currently being sought could cause significant shipment delays and, if such delays are too great, could result in the cancellation of orders. Any future restrictions or charges imposed by the United States or any other country on our international sales or foreign subsidiary could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and/or operating results. In addition, from time to time, we have entered into contracts with the Israeli Ministry of Defense which were governed by the U.S. Foreign Military Financing program (“FMF”FMF). Any such future sales would be subject to these regulations. Failure to comply with ITAR or FMF rules could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, and/or operating results.

 

We depend on international operations for a substantial majority of our components and products.

 

We purchase a substantial majority of our components from foreign manufacturers and have a substantial majority of our commercial products assembled, packaged, and tested by subcontractors located outside the United States. These activities are subject to the uncertainties associated with international business operations, including trade barriers and other restrictions, changes in trade policies, governmental regulations, currency exchange fluctuations, reduced protection for intellectual property, war and other military activities, terrorism, changes in social, political, or economic conditions, and other disruptions or delays in production or shipments, any of which could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and/or operating results.

 


We depend on international sales for a portion of our revenues.

 

Sales to customers outside of North America accounted for 40.2%52% and 55.8%56.9% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, and we expect that international sales will continue to represent a material portion of our total revenues. International sales are subject to the risks of international business operations as described above, as well as generally longer payment cycles, greater difficulty collecting accounts receivable, and currency restrictions. In addition, DPL,Gresham, our wholly-owned subsidiary in the United Kingdom, supports our European and other international customers, distributors, and sales representatives, and therefore is also subject to local regulation. International sales are also subject to the export laws and regulations of the United States and other countries.

 

Because a significant portion of our revenues and expenses is denominated in foreign currencies, fluctuations in exchange rates could have a material adverse effect on our operating results.

We face foreign exchange risks because a significant portion of our revenue and expenses is denominated in foreign currencies. Further, some suppliers to Enertec and Relec require payment in U.S. dollars, which exposes us to risk. Generally, U.S. dollar strength adversely impacts the translation of the portion of our revenue that is generated in foreign currencies into the U.S. dollar. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, approximately 46.9% and 48.2% of our revenue, respectively, was denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars. Our results of operations could also be negatively impacted by a strengthening of the U.S. dollar as a large portion of our costs are U.S. dollar denominated. We also have foreign exchange risk exposure with respect to certain of our assets, that are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our subsidiaries, and our financial results are affected by the re-measurement and translation of these non-U.S. currencies into U.S. dollars, which is reflected in the effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash on the consolidated statements of cash flows. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the effects of exchange rates on our cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash totaled $122,980 and $179,830, due to fluctuations in exchange rates and the strengthening of the U.S. dollar. While we may choose to enter into transactions to hedge portions of our foreign currency translation and balance sheet exposure in the future, it is impossible to predict or eliminate the effects of foreign exchange rate exposure. Strengthening of the U.S. dollar could materially adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Our insurance coverage and indemnity may be insufficient to cover potential liabilities we may face due to the risks inherent in the products and services we provide.

We are exposed to liabilities that are unique to the products and services we provide. A significant portion of our business relates to designing, developing and manufacturing, components, integrated assemblies and subsystems for advanced defense, medical, transportation, industrial, technology and communications systems and products. New technologies associated with these systems and products may be untested or unproven. Components of certain of the defense systems and products we develop are inherently dangerous. Failures of satellites, missile systems, air traffic control systems, homeland security applications and aircraft have the potential to cause loss of life and extensive property damage. In most circumstances, we may receive indemnification from the government end users of our defense offerings in the United States, the United Kingdom and Israel. In addition, failures of products and systems that we manufacture or distribute for medical devices, transportation controls or industrial systems also have the potential to result in loss of life, personal injury and/or extensive property damage.

While we maintain insurance for certain risks, the amount of our insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover all claims or liabilities, and we may be forced to bear substantial costs from an accident or incident. It also is not possible for us to obtain insurance to protect against all operational risks and liabilities. Substantial claims resulting from an incident in excess of government indemnity and our insurance coverage would harm our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Moreover, any accident or incident for which we are liable, even if fully insured, could negatively affect our standing with our customers and the public, thereby making it more difficult for us to compete effectively, and could significantly impact the cost and availability of adequate insurance in the future.

If we are unable to satisfy our customers’ specific product quality, certification or network requirements, our business could be disrupted and our financial condition could be harmed.

Our customers demand that our products meet stringent quality, performance and reliability standards. We have, from time to time, experienced problems in satisfying such standards. Defects or failures have occurred in the past, and may in the future occur, relating to our product quality, performance and reliability. From time to time, our customers also require us to implement specific changes to our products to allow these products to operate within their specific network configurations. If we are unable to remedy these failures or defects or if we cannot effect such required product modifications, we could experience lost revenues, increased costs, including inventory write-offs, warranty expense and costs associated with customer support, delays in, or cancellations or rescheduling of, orders or shipments and product returns or discounts, any of which would harm our business.

Some of our business is subject to U.S. government procurement laws and regulations.

We must comply with certain laws and regulations relating to the formation, administration and performance of federal government contracts. These laws and regulations affect how we conduct business with our federal government contracts, including the business that we do as a subcontractor. In complying with these laws and regulations, we may incur additional costs, and non-compliance may lead to the assessment of fines and penalties, including contractual damages, or the loss of business.

Failure to comply with anti-bribery, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering laws, and similar laws, or allegations of such failure, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

We are subject to various anti-bribery, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering laws, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended (the “FCPA”), the U.S. Travel Act, the USA PATRIOT Act, the United Kingdom Bribery Act 2010, the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, Chapter 9 (sub-chapter 5) of the Israeli Penal Law, 1977, the Israeli Prohibition on Money Laundering Law–2000, and possibly other similar laws in countries outside of the United States in which we conduct our business. Anti-corruption and anti-bribery laws have been enforced aggressively in recent years and are interpreted broadly to generally prohibit companies, their employees, agents, representatives, business partners, and third-party intermediaries from authorizing, offering, or providing, directly or indirectly, improper payments or benefits to recipients in the public or private sector.

We, our employees, agents, representatives, business partners and third-party intermediaries may have direct or indirect interactions with officials and employees of government agencies or state-owned or affiliated entities and may be held liable for the corrupt or other illegal activities of these employees, agents, representatives, business partners or third-party intermediaries even if we do not explicitly authorize such activities.

These laws also require that we keep accurate records and maintain internal controls and compliance procedures designed to prevent any such actions. While we have policies and procedures to address compliance with such laws, we cannot assure you that none of our employees, agents, representatives, business partners or third-party intermediaries will take actions in violation of our policies and applicable law, for which we may be ultimately held responsible. In addition, we may be held liable for violations committed of the FCPA or similar foreign laws by companies that we acquire.

Any alleged or actual violation of the FCPA or other applicable anti-bribery, anti-corruption laws, and anti-money laundering laws could result in whistleblower complaints, investigations, enforcement actions, fines and other criminal or civil sanctions, adverse media coverage, loss of export privileges, or suspension or termination of government contracts. Responding to any investigation or enforcement action would require significant attention of our management and resources, including significant defense costs and other professional fees. Failure to comply with anti-bribery, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering laws, and similar laws, or allegations of such failure, could therefore have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and future prospects.

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry - Microphase

Microphase has a history of losses and our future profitability on a quarterly or annual basis is uncertain, which could have a harmful effect on our business and the value of our company.

During the past three fiscal years Microphase has incurred losses from operations. These losses are attributable to lower volumes of its products sold to major defense contractors partially as a result of the overall reduction in defense spending and sequestration by the U.S. Congress. Since the financial crisis of 2008, Microphase has been significantly short of capital needed to acquire parts for production of its products to complete orders for such products. At times, Microphase has not had the cash available to make advance payments for the purchase of parts, and then, as a consequence, Microphase would not receive the parts from its vendors required to finish a customer order. This would then delay the delivery of products to customers, and would also delay recognition of the resulting revenues and the receipt of cash from the customer. Sometimes after experiencing a delay in delivery of an order from Microphase, the customer would not place its next order with Microphase, resulting in a loss of business.

Microphase’s future profitability depends upon many factors, including several that are beyond its control. These factors include, without limitation:

·changes in the demand for ITS products and services;
·loss of key customers or contracts;
·the introduction of competitive products;
·the failure to gain market acceptance of ITS new and existing products; and
·the failure to successfully and cost effectively develop, introduce and market new products, services and product enhancements in a timely manner.

In addition, Microphase is incurring significant legal, accounting, and other expenses related to being a reporting company without there being a trading market for any of its securities. As a result of these expenditures, Microphase will have to generate and sustain increased revenue to achieve and maintain future profitability.

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A large percentage of Microphase’s current revenue is derived from prime defense contractors to the U.S. government and its allies, and the loss of these relationships, a reduction in U.S. government funding or a change in U.S. government spending priorities or bidding processes could have an adverse impact on its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 

  Microphase is highly dependent on sales to major defense contractors of the U.S. military and its allies, including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, BAE Systems and SAAB. The percentages of its revenue that were derived from sales to these named major defense contractors and directly to the U.S. Government were 50.7% in fiscal 2020 and 51.5% in fiscal 2019. Therefore, any significant disruption or deterioration of Microphase’s relationship with any such major defense contractors or the U.S. Government could materially reduce its revenue. During the year ended December 31, 2020 there were five customers that accounted for more than 10% of Microphase’s sales:  BAE Systems, Boeing/Argonist, Inc., DFAS Columbus Center, Raytheon Company and Sierra Nevada Corporation. During the year ended December 31, 2019 there were two customers that accounted for more than 10% of Microphase’s sales: BAE Systems and DFAS Columbus Center. Microphase’s competitors continuously engage in efforts to expand their business relationships with the same major defense contractors and the U.S. Government and will continue these efforts in the future, and the U.S. Government may choose to use other contractors. Microphase expects that a majority of the business that it seeks will be awarded through competitive bidding. Microphase operates in highly competitive markets and its competitors have more extensive or more specialized engineering, manufacturing and marketing capabilities than Microphase does in many areas, and Microphase may not be able to continue to win competitively awarded contracts or to obtain task orders under multi-award contracts. Further, the competitive bidding process involves significant cost and managerial time to prepare bids and proposals for contracts that may not be awarded to Microphase, as well as the risk that Microphase may fail to accurately estimate the resources and costs required to fulfill any contract awarded to us. Following any contract award, Microphase may experience significant expense or delay, contract modification or contract rescission as a result of its competitors protesting or challenging contracts awarded to it in competitive bidding. Major defense contractors to whom Microphase supplies components for systems must compete with other major defense contractors (to which Microphase may not supply components) for military orders from the U.S. Government.

In addition, Microphase competes with other policy needs, which may be viewed as more necessary, for limited resources and an ever-changing amount of available funding in the budget and appropriation process. Budget and appropriations decisions made by the U.S. Government are outside of Microphase control and have long-term consequences for its business. U.S. Government spending priorities and levels remain uncertain and difficult to predict and are affected by numerous factors, including until recently sequestration (automatic, across-the-board U.S. Government budgetary spending cuts), and the purchase of our products could be superseded by alternate arrangements. While the US defense budget was recently increased, there can be no assurance that this increase will be maintained for the foreseeable future, particularly in light of the recent federal expenditures the federal government has made with a view to ameliorating the economic damage suffered as a result of COVID-19. A change in U.S. Government spending priorities or an increase in non-procurement spending at the expense of our programs, or a reduction in total U.S. Government spending, could have material adverse consequences on Microphase’s future business. 

Microphase’s U.S. government contracts may be terminated by the federal government at any time prior to their completion, which could lead to unexpected loss of sales and reduction in Microphase’s backlog.

Under the terms of Microphase’s U.S. government contracts, the U.S. government may unilaterally:

·terminate or modify existing contracts;
·reduce the value of existing contracts through partial termination; and
·delay the payment of Microphase’s invoices by government payment offices.

The federal government can terminate or modify any of its contracts with Microphase or its prime contractors either for the federal government’s convenience, or if Microphase or its prime contractors default, by failing to perform under the terms of the applicable contract. A termination arising out of Microphase’s default could expose it to liability and have a material adverse effect on its ability to compete for future federal government contracts and subcontracts. If the federal government or its prime contractors terminate and/or materially modify any of Microphase’s contracts or if any applicable options are not exercised, Microphase’s failure to replace sales generated from such contracts would result in lower sales and would adversely affect its earnings, which could have a material adverse effect on Microphase’s business, results of operations and financial condition. Microphase’s backlog as of December 31, 2020 was approximately $5.5 million. Microphase’s backlog could be adversely affected if contracts are modified or terminated.

Microphase’s products with military applications are subject to export regulations, and compliance with these regulations may be costly.

Microphase is required to obtain export licenses before filling foreign orders for many of its products that have military or other governmental applications. United States Export Administration regulations control technology exports like its products for reasons of national security and compliance with foreign policy, to guarantee domestic reserves of products in short supply and, under certain circumstances, for the security of a destination country. Thus, any foreign sales of its products requiring export licenses must comply with these general policies. Compliance with these regulations is costly, and these regulations are subject to change, and any such change may require Microphase to improve its technologies, incur expenses or both in order to comply with such regulations.

Microphase depends on U.S. government contracts issued to major defense contractors, which often are only partially funded, subject to immediate termination, and heavily regulated and audited. The termination or failure to fund, or negative audit findings for, one or more of these contracts could have an adverse impact on Microphase’s business. 

Over its lifetime, a U.S. Government program awarded to a major defense contractor may be implemented by the award of many different individual contracts and subcontracts. The funding of U.S. Government programs is subject to Congressional appropriations. Although multi-year contracts may be authorized and appropriated in connection with major procurements, Congress generally appropriates funds on a fiscal year basis. Procurement funds are typically made available for obligations over the course of one to three years. Consequently, programs often receive only partial funding initially, and additional funds are designated only as Congress authorizes further appropriations. The termination of funding for a U.S. Government program with respect to major defense contractors for which Microphase is a subcontractor would result in a loss of anticipated future revenue attributable to that program, which could have an adverse impact on its operations. In addition, the termination of, or failure to commit additional funds to, a program for which Microphase is a subcontractor could result in lost revenue and increase its overall costs of doing business. 

Generally, U.S. Government contracts are subject to oversight audits by U.S. Government representatives. Such audits could result in adjustments to Microphase’s contract costs. Any costs found to be improperly allocated to a specific contract will not be reimbursed, and such costs already reimbursed must be refunded. Microphase has recorded contract revenues based on costs Microphase expect to realize upon final audit. However, Microphase does not know the outcome of any future audits and adjustments, and Microphase may be required to materially reduce its revenues or profits upon completion and final negotiation of audits. Negative audit findings could also result in termination of a contract, forfeiture of profits, suspension of payments, fines and suspension or debarment from U.S. Government contracting or subcontracting for a period of time.

In addition, U.S. Government contracts generally contain provisions permitting termination, in whole or in part, without prior notice at the U.S. Government’s convenience upon the payment only for work done and commitments made at the time of termination. Microphase can give no assurance that one or more of the U.S. Government contracts with a major defense contractor under which Microphase provides component products will not be terminated under these circumstances. Also, Microphase can give no assurance that it will be able to procure new contracts to offset the revenue or backlog lost as a result of any termination of its U.S. Government contracts. Because a significant portion of Microphase’s revenue is dependent on its performance and payment under its U.S. Government contracts, the loss of one or more large contracts could have a material adverse impact on its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 

Microphase’s government business also is subject to specific procurement regulations and other requirements. These requirements, though customary in U.S. Government contracts, increase its performance and compliance costs. In addition, these costs might increase in the future, thereby reducing Microphase’s margins, which could have an adverse effect on its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Failure to comply with these regulations and requirements could lead to fines, penalties, repayments, or compensatory or treble damages, or suspension or debarment from U.S. Government contracting or subcontracting for a period of time. Among the causes for debarment are violations of various laws, including those related to procurement integrity, export control, U.S. Government security regulations, employment practices, protection of the environment, accuracy of records, proper recording of costs and foreign corruption. The termination of a U.S. Government contract or relationship as a result of any of these acts would have an adverse impact on Microphase’s operations and could have an adverse effect on its standing and eligibility for future U.S. Government contracts.

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Microphase’s business could be negatively impacted by cybersecurity threats and other security threats and disruptions.

As a U.S. Government defense contractor, Microphase faces certain security threats, including threats to its information technology infrastructure, attempts to gain access to its proprietary or classified information, threats to physical security, and domestic terrorism events. Microphase’s information technology networks and related systems are critical to the operation of its business and essential to its ability to successfully perform day-to-day operations. Microphase is also involved with information technology systems for certain customers and other third parties, which generally face similar security threats. Cybersecurity threats in particular, are persistent, evolve quickly and include, but are not limited to, computer viruses, attempts to access information, denial of service and other electronic security breaches. Microphase believes that it has implemented appropriate measures and controls and has invested in skilled information technology resources to appropriately identify threats and mitigate potential risks, but there can be no assurance that such actions will be sufficient to prevent disruptions to mission critical systems, the unauthorized release of confidential information or corruption of data. A security breach or other significant disruption involving these types of information and information technology networks and related systems could:

·disrupt the proper functioning of these networks and systems and therefore its operations and/or those of certain of its customers;
·result in the unauthorized access to, and destruction, loss, theft, misappropriation or release of, proprietary, confidential, sensitive or otherwise valuable information of Microphase or its customers, including trade secrets, which others could use to compete against Microphase or for disruptive, destructive or otherwise harmful purposes and outcomes;
·compromise national security and other sensitive government functions;
·require significant management attention and resources to remedy the damages that result;
·subject Microphase to claims for breach of contract, damages, credits, penalties or termination; and
·damage Microphase’s reputation with its customers (particularly agencies of the U.S. Government) and the public generally.

Any or all of the foregoing could have a negative impact on its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Microphase enters into fixed-price contracts that could subject it to losses in the event of cost overruns or a significant increase in inflation.

Microphase has a number of fixed-price contracts which allow it to benefit from cost savings but subject it to the risk of potential cost overruns, particularly for firm fixed-price contracts, because Microphase assumes the entire cost burden. If its initial estimates are incorrect, Microphase can lose money on these contracts. U.S. Government contracts can expose Microphase to potentially large losses because the U.S. Government can hold Microphase responsible for completing a project or, in certain circumstances, paying the entire cost of its replacement by another provider regardless of the size or foreseeability of any cost overruns that occur over the life of the contract. Because many of these contracts involve new technologies and applications, unforeseen events such as technological difficulties, fluctuations in the price of raw materials, problems with its suppliers and cost overruns, can result in the contractual price becoming less favorable or even unprofitable to Microphase. The U.S. and other countries also may experience a significant increase in inflation. A significant increase in inflation rates could have a significant adverse impact on the profitability of these contracts. Furthermore, if Microphase does not meet contract deadlines or specifications, Microphase may need to renegotiate contracts on less favorable terms, be forced to pay penalties or liquidated damages or suffer major losses if the customer exercises its right to terminate. In addition, some of its contracts have provisions relating to cost controls and audit rights, and if Microphase fails to meet the terms specified in those contracts Microphase may not realize their full benefits. Microphase’s results of operations are dependent on its ability to maximize its earnings from its contracts. Cost overruns could have an adverse impact on its financial results. 

Compliance with the regulations, standards, and contractual obligations related to privacy, data protection, and data security, may cause us to incur additional expenses and failure to comply with such obligations could harm our business and future results of operations.

We expect that the regulatory framework for privacy, data protection and data security will continue to evolve, which may result in additional operating costs for internal compliance and risks to our business. In the European Union, the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) contains robust obligations on data processors and heavy documentation requirements for data protection compliance programs by companies. Among other requirements, the GDPR regulates the transfer of personal data subject to the GDPR to third countries that have not been found to provide adequate protection to such personal data, including the United States. In the European Union, informed consent may be required for the use of cookies and direct electronic marketing. The GDPR also imposes conditions on obtaining valid consent. Failure to comply with the GDPR could result in penalties for noncompliance (including possible fines of up to the greater of EUR20 million and 4% of our global annual revenue for the preceding financial year for the most serious violations, as well as the right to compensation for financial or non-financial damages claimed by individuals under Article 82 of the GDPR).

In addition to the GDPR, the European Commission has another draft regulation in the approval process that focuses on the right to privacy. The proposed regulation, known as the ePrivacy Regulation would replace the member state laws that implement the current European Union ePrivacy Directive. The ePrivacy Regulation will significantly increase fines for non-compliance.

The United Kingdom has enacted a Data Protection Act substantially implementing the GDPR, effective in May 2018, which was further amended to align more substantially with the GDPR following Brexit. It is unclear how United Kingdom data protection laws or regulations will develop and how data transfers to and from the United Kingdom will be regulated in the future.

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry - Enertec

Potential political, economic and military instability in Israel could adversely affect our operations.

A significant portion of our business is conducted through Enertec, our Israeli subsidiary. Accordingly, political, economic and military conditions in Israel and the surrounding region may directly affect our Israeli operations. In recent years, Israel has been involved in sporadic armed conflicts with Hamas, an Islamist terrorist group that controls the Gaza Strip, with Hezbollah, an Islamist terrorist group that controls large portions of Southern Lebanon, and with Iranian-backed military forces in Syria. Some of these hostilities were accompanied by missile strikes from the Gaza Strip against civilian targets in various parts of Israel, including areas in which our facilities are located, and negatively affected business conditions in Israel. The change in the United States Presidency may change the dynamics in the Middle East as forces hostile to the existence of Israel seek to reverse the recent stability and commercial opportunities created by the Abraham Accords. For example, there have been increasing concerns related to a potential attack by Iran. The tension between Israel and Iran and/or these groups may escalate in the future and turn even more violent, which could affect the Israeli economy in general and us in particular.

Our commercial insurance does not cover losses that may occur as a result of events associated with war and terrorism. Although the Israeli government currently covers the reinstatement value of direct damages that are caused by terrorist attacks or acts of war, we cannot assure you that this government coverage will be maintained or that it will sufficiently cover our potential damages. Any losses or damages incurred by us could have a material adverse effect on our business.

In addition, Israel-based companies and companies doing business with Israel have been the subject of an economic boycott by members of the Arab League and certain other predominantly Muslim countries since Israel’s establishment. Although Israel has entered into various agreements with certain Arab countries and the Palestinian Authority, and various declarations have been signed in connection with efforts to resolve some of the economic and political problems in the Middle East, we cannot predict whether or in what manner these problems will be resolved. Wars and acts of terrorism have resulted in significant damage to the Israeli economy, including reducing the level of foreign and local investment.

Additionally, Israel has had three elections over the past 18 months and its coalition government collapsed in December 2020 following the failure by the parliament to pass an annual budget. A new election for the Knesset occurred on March 23, 2021 with no party able to win a parliamentary majority. This turmoil has negatively impacted and could in the future continue to impact the ability of the Israeli Ministry of Defense to adopt a new budget, enter into new programs and make timely payments to its suppliers, which in turn could adversely affect our operations in Israel and our operating results.

Many of our Enertec employees are obligated to perform military reserve duty in Israel, which could have a disruptive impact on our business.

Generally, Israeli adult male and certain female citizens and permanent residents are obligated to perform annual military reserve duty in the Israel Defense Forces up to a specified age. They also may be called to active military duty at any time under emergency circumstances. These military service obligations could have a disruptive impact on our business, if hostilities develop in the future.

Enertec may become subject to claims for remuneration or royalties for assigned service invention rights by its employees, which could result in litigation and harm our business.

A significant portion of the intellectual property covered by Enertec’s products has been developed by Enertec’s employees in the course of their employment for Enertec. Under the Israeli Patent Law, 5727-1967, or the Patent Law, and recent decisions by the Israeli Supreme Court and the Israeli Compensation and Royalties Committee, a body constituted under the Patent Law, Israeli employees may be entitled to remuneration for intellectual property that they develop for us unless they explicitly waive any such rights. To the extent that Enertec is unable to enter into agreements with its future employees pursuant to which they agree that any inventions created in the scope of their employment or engagement are owned exclusively by Enertec (as it has done in the past), Enertec may face claims demanding remuneration. As a consequence of such claims, Enertec could be required to pay additional remuneration or royalties to its current and former employees, or be forced to litigate such claims, which could negatively affect its business.

Compliance with the regulations, standards, and contractual obligations related to privacy, data protection, and data security, may cause us to incur additional expenses and failure to comply with such obligations could harm our business and future results of operations.

In Israel, the Ministry of Justice has recently published a draft bill proposing to amend the Israeli Privacy Protection Law 5741-1981 to align it more closely with the European data privacy regulatory framework, and further changes may be introduced in the near future. Adoption of a GDPR-like regime in Israel would require Enertec to sign agreements with entities with whom it shares personal data covered under such regime and provide notice of the collection of such data as well as the use of “cookies” along with posting “opt out” provisions on its website. Compliance with these requirements may require amendments to Enertec internal policies, business practices and data handling protocols.

If we were to be found in violation of any applicable laws or regulations relating to privacy, data protection, or security, our business may be materially and adversely affected, and we would likely have to change our business practices. In addition, these laws and regulations could impose significant costs on us and could constrain our ability to use and process data in a commercially desirable manner. In addition, if a breach of data security, or a violation of laws and regulations relating to privacy, data protection or data security were to occur or to be alleged to have occurred, our reputation would be damaged, and our business and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry – Relec

The third parties on which we rely to supply certain products are located outside the United States.

Relec distributes products from foreign manufacturers located in Asia. Our future operating results will depend, among other things, on our ability to continue to rely on these arrangements. If we are no longer able to rely on these or other similar arrangements for the supply of certain products, or if our cost of relying on such arrangements materially increases, as the result of the imposition of or changes in customs, tariffs, quotas, trade barriers, or other trade protection measures, or otherwise, it could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Our strategic focus on our custom power supply solution competencies and concurrent cost reduction plans may be ineffective or may limit our ability to compete.

As a result of our strategic focus on custom power supply solutions, we will continue to devote significant resources to developing and manufacturing custom power supply solutions for a large number of customers, where each product represents a uniquely tailored solution for a specific customer’s requirements. Failure to meet these customer product requirements or a failure to meet production schedules and/or product quality standards may put us at risk with one or more of these customers. Moreover, changes in market conditions and strategic changes at the direction of our customers may affect their decision to continue to purchase from us. The loss of one or more of our significant custom power supply solution customers could have a material adverse impact on our revenues, business or financial condition.

We have also implemented a series of initiatives designed to increase efficiency and reduce costs. While we believe that these actions will reduce costs, they may not be sufficient to achieve the required operational efficiencies that will enable us to respond more quickly to changes in the market or result in the improvements in our business that we anticipate. In such event, we may be forced to take additional cost-reducing initiatives, including those involving our personnel, which may negatively impact quarterly earnings and profitability as we account for severance and other related costs. In addition, there is the risk that such measures could have long-term adverse effects on our business by reducing our pool of talent, decreasing or slowing improvements in our products or services, making it more difficult for us to respond to customers, limiting our ability to increase production quickly if and when the demand for our solutions increases and limiting our ability to hire and retain key personnel. These circumstances could cause our earnings to be lower than they otherwise might be.

Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common Stock

If we do not continue to satisfy the NYSE American continued listing requirements, our common stock could be delisted from NYSE American.

The listing of our common stock on the NYSE American is contingent on our compliance with the NYSE American’s conditions for continued listing. On July 24, 2020, we were notified by the NYSE American that we were no longer in compliance with the NYSE American continued listing standards because our reported stockholders' equity was below continued listing standards. The NYSE American requires that a listed company's stockholders' equity be $6.0 million or more if it has reported losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in its five most recent fiscal years.

Following submission of our compliance plan demonstrating how we intend to regain compliance with the continued listing standards, we were notified on October 8, 2020, that the NYSE American granted us a listing extension on the basis of our plan until January 24, 2022. We are subject to periodic review by NYSE American staff during the extension period. Failure to make progress consistent with the plan or to regain compliance with the continued listing standards by the end of the extension period could result in our common stock being delisted from the NYSE American. On January 4, 2021, we were notified by the NYSE American we failed to comply with the NYSE American continued listing standards because of our inability to hold an annual meeting of stockholders no later than one year after the end of our last fiscal year. In light of our continued losses and inability to obtain quorum for our annual meeting, there is no assurance that we will be able to regain compliance with the NYSE American continued listing standards. If we fail to meet the NYSE American listing requirement, we may be subject to delisting by the NYSE American. In the event our common stock is no longer listed for trading on the NYSE American, our trading volume and share price may decrease and we may experience further difficulties in raising capital which could materially affect our operations and financial results. Further, delisting from the NYSE American could also have other negative effects, including potential loss of confidence by partners, lenders, suppliers and employees and could also trigger various defaults under our lending agreements and other outstanding agreements. Finally, delisting could make it harder for us to raise capital and sell securities. You may experience future dilution as a result of future equity offerings. In order to raise additional capital, we may in the future offer additional shares of our common stock or other securities convertible into or exchangeable for our common stock at prices that may not be the same as the price per share in this offering. We may sell shares or other securities in any other offering at a price per share that is less than the price per share paid by investors in this offering, and investors purchasing shares or other securities in the future could have rights superior to existing stockholders. The price per share at which we sell additional shares of our common stock, or securities convertible or exchangeable into common stock, in future transactions may be higher or lower than the price per share paid by investors in this offering.

Our common stock price is volatile; Volatility in our common stock price may subject us to securities litigation.

Our common stock is listed on the NYSE American. In the past, our trading price has fluctuated widely, depending on many factors that may have little to do with our operations or business prospects. During the past year, through April 12, 2021, our stock price traded between $0.53 per share and $10.94 per share as reported on Nasdaq.com. Further, during the first quarter of 2018, our common stock closed at a high of $2,880.00 per share as reported on Nasdaq.com. On April 12, 2021, our common stock closed at $2.98.

Stock markets, in general, have experienced, and continue to experience, significant price and volume volatility, and the market price of our common stock may continue to be subject to similar market fluctuations unrelated to our operating performance or prospects. This increased volatility, coupled with depressed economic conditions, could continue to have a depressive effect on the market price of our common stock. The following factors, many of which are beyond our control, may influence our stock price:

·the status of our growth strategy including the development of new products with any proceeds we may be able to raise in the future;
·announcements of technological or competitive developments;
·announcements or expectations of additional financing efforts;
·our ability to market new and enhanced products on a timely basis;
·changes in laws and regulations affecting our business;

commencement of, or involvement in, litigation involving us;

·regulatory developments affecting us, our customers or our competitors;
·announcements regarding patent or other intellectual property litigation or the issuance of patents to us or our competitors or updates with respect to the enforceability of patents or other intellectual property rights generally in the US or internationally;

·actual or anticipated fluctuations in our quarterly financial results or the quarterly financial results of companies perceived to be similar to us;
·changes in the market’s expectations about our operating results;
·our operating results failing to meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors in a particular period;
·changes in the economic performance or market valuations of our competitors;
·additions or departures of our executive officers;
·sales or perceived sales of our common stock by us, our insiders or our other stockholders;
·share price and volume fluctuations attributable to inconsistent trading volume levels of our shares; and
·general economic, industry, political and market conditions and overall fluctuations in the financial markets in the United States and abroad, including as a result of ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, the securities markets have, from time to time, experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that are not related to the operating performance of particular companies. Any of these factors could result in large and sudden changes in the volume and trading price of our common stock and could cause our stockholders to incur substantial losses. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a company’s securities, stockholders have often instituted securities class action litigation against that company. If we were involved in a class action suit or other securities litigation, it would divert the attention of our senior management, require us to incur significant expense and, whether or not adversely determined, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

We have a substantial number of convertible notes, warrants, options and preferred stock outstanding that could affect our price.

Due to a number of financings, we have a substantial number of shares that are subject to issuance pursuant to outstanding convertible debt, warrants and options. These conversion prices and exercise prices range from $0.88 to $2,000 per share of common stock. As of the date of this Annual Report, the number of shares of common stock subject to convertible notes, warrants, options and preferred stock were 440,862, 3,309,060, 850,925 and 2,232, respectively. The issuance of common stock pursuant to convertible notes, warrants, options and preferred stock at conversion or exercise prices less than market prices may have the effect of limiting an increase in market price of our common stock until all of these underling shares have been issued.

The issuance of shares of our Class B Common Stock to our management or others could provide such persons with voting control leaving our other stockholders unable to elect our directors and the holders of our shares of common stock will have little influence over our Management.

Although there are currently no shares of our Class B Common Stock issued and outstanding, our certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of 25,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock. Each share of Class B Common Stock provides the holder thereof with ten (10) votes on all matters submitted to a stockholder vote. Our certificate of incorporation does not provide for cumulative voting for the election of directors. Any person or group who controls or can obtain more than 50% of the votes cast for the election of each director will control the election of directors and the other stockholders will not be able to elect any directors or exert any influence over management decisions. As a result of the super-voting rights of our shares of Class B Common Stock, the issuance of such shares to our management or others could provide such persons with voting control and our other stockholders will not be able to elect our directors and will have little influence over our management. While we are listed on the NYSE American or any other national securities exchange it is highly unlikely that we would issue any shares of Class B Common Stock as doing so would jeopardize our continued listing on any such exchange. However, if were to be delisted for some other reason and our shares of Class A Common Stock trade on an over-the-counter market, then we would face no restriction on issuing shares of Class B Common Stock.

General Risk Factors

Our limited operating history makes it difficult to evaluate our future business prospects and to make decisions based on our historical performance.

Although our executive officers have been engaged in the industries in which we operate for varying degrees of time, we did not begin operations of our current business until recently. We have a very limited operating history in our current form, which makes it difficult to evaluate our business on the basis of historical operations. As a consequence, it is difficult, if not impossible, to forecast our future results based upon our historical data. Reliance on our historical results may not be representative of the results we will achieve, and for certain areas in which we operate, principally those unrelated to defense contracting, will not be indicative at all. Because of the uncertainties related to our lack of historical operations, we may be hindered in our ability to anticipate and timely adapt to increases or decreases in sales, product costs or expenses. If we make poor budgetary decisions as a result of unreliable historical data, we could be less profitable or incur losses, which may result in a decline in our stock price.

If we make any additional acquisitions, they may disrupt or have a negative impact on our business.

We have plans to eventually make additional acquisitions beyond Microphase, Enertec, Relec and the Facility. Whenever we make acquisitions, we could have difficulty integrating the acquired companies’ personnel and operations with our own. In addition, the key personnel of the acquired business may not be willing to work for us. We cannot predict the effect expansion may have on our core business. Regardless of whether we are successful in making an acquisition, the negotiations could disrupt our ongoing business, distract our management and employees and increase our expenses. In addition to the risks described above, acquisitions are accompanied by a number of inherent risks, including, without limitation, the following:

·If Relec senior management and/or management of future acquired companies terminate their employment prior to our completion of integration;

·difficulty of integrating acquired products, services or operations;

·integration of new employees and management into our culture while maintaining focus on operating efficiently and providing consistent, high-quality goods and services;

·potential disruption of the ongoing businesses and distraction of our management and the management of acquired companies;

·unanticipated issues with transferring customer relationships;

·complexity associated with managing our combined company;

·difficulty of incorporating acquired rights or products into our existing business;

·difficulties in disposing of the excess or idle facilities of an acquired company or business and expenses in maintaining such facilities;

·difficulties in maintaining uniform standards, controls, procedures and policies;

·potential impairment of relationships with employees and customers as a result of any integration of new management personnel;

·potential inability or failure to achieve additional sales and enhance our customer base through cross-marketing of the products to new and existing customers;

·effect of any government regulations which relate to the business acquired; and

·potential unknown liabilities associated with acquired businesses or product lines, or the need to spend significant amounts to retool, reposition or modify the marketing and sales of acquired products or the defense of any litigation, whether or not successful, resulting from actions of the acquired company prior to our acquisition. 

Our business could be severely impaired if and to the extent that we are unable to succeed in addressing any of these risks or other problems encountered in connection with these acquisitions, many of which cannot be presently identified, these risks and problems could disrupt our ongoing business, distract our management and employees, increase our expenses and adversely affect our results of operations.

We may not be able to successfully identify suitable acquisition targets and complete acquisitions to meet our growth strategy, and even if we are able to do so, we may not realize the full anticipated benefits of such acquisitions, and our business, financial conditions and results of operations may suffer.

Increasing revenues through acquisitions is one of the key components of our growth strategy. Identifying suitable acquisition candidates can be difficult, time-consuming and costly, and we may not be able to identify suitable candidates or complete acquisitions in a timely manner, on a cost-effective basis or at all. 

We will have to pay cash, incur debt, or issue equity as consideration in any future acquisitions, each of which could adversely affect our financial condition or the market price of our common stock. The sale of equity or issuance of equity-linked debt to finance any future acquisitions could result in dilution to our stockholders. The incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased fixed obligations and could limit our flexibility in managing our business due to covenants or other restrictions contained in debt instruments.

Further, we may not be able to realize the anticipated benefits of completed acquisitions. Some acquisition targets may not have a developed business or are experiencing inefficiencies and incur losses. Additionally, small defense contractors which we consider suitable acquisition targets may be uniquely dependent on their prior owners and the loss of such owners’ services following the completion of acquisitions may adversely affect their business. Therefore, we may lose our investment in the event that the acquired businesses do not develop as planned or that we are unable to achieve the anticipated cost efficiencies or reduction of losses.

Additionally, our acquisitions have previously required, and any similar future transactions may also require, significant management efforts and expenditures. Regardless of whether we are successful in making an acquisition, the negotiations could disrupt our ongoing business, divert the attention of our management and key employees and increase our expenses.

No assurance of successful expansion of operations.

Our significant increase in the scope and the scale of our operations, including the hiring of additional personnel, has resulted in significantly higher operating expenses. We anticipate that our operating expenses will continue to increase. Expansion of our operations may also make significant demands on our management, finances and other resources. Our ability to manage the anticipated future growth, should it occur, will depend upon a significant expansion of our accounting and other internal management systems and the implementation and subsequent improvement of a variety of systems, procedures and controls. We cannot assure that significant problems in these areas will not occur. Failure to expand these areas and implement and improve such systems, procedures and controls in an efficient manner at a pace consistent with our business could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We cannot assure that attempts to expand our marketing, sales, manufacturing and customer support efforts will succeed or generate additional sales or profits in any future period. As a result of the expansion of our operations and the anticipated increase in our operating expenses, along with the difficulty in forecasting revenue levels, we expect to continue to experience significant fluctuations in its results of operations.

We may be unable to successfully expand our production capacity, which could result in material delays, quality issues, increased costs and loss of business opportunities, which may negatively impact our product margins and profitability.

Part of our future growth strategy is to increase our production capacity to meet increasing demand for our goods. Assuming we obtain sufficient funding to increase our production capacity, any projects to increase such capacity may not be constructed on the anticipated timetable or within budget. We may also experience quality control issues as we implement any production upgrades. Any material delay in completing these projects, or any substantial cost increases or quality issues in connection with these projects could materially delay our ability to bring our products to market and adversely affect our business, reduce our revenue, income and available cash, all of which could harm our financial condition.

If we fail to establish and maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to report our financial results accurately or prevent fraud. Any inability to report and file our financial results accurately and timely could harm our reputation and adversely impact the trading price of our common stock.

Effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and prevent fraud. If we cannot provide reliable financial reports or prevent fraud, we may not be able to manage our business as effectively as we would if an effective control environment existed, and our business and reputation with investors may be harmed. As a result, our small size and any current internal control deficiencies may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and access to capital. We have carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the most recent period covered by this report. Based on the foregoing, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at the reasonable assurance level due to the material weaknesses described below.

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, within the meaning of Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) Audit Standard No. 5, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Management has identified the following material weakness which has caused management to conclude that as of December 31, 2020 our internal control over financial reporting (“ICFR”) was not effective at the reasonable assurance level:

We do not have sufficient resources in our accounting function, which restricts our ability to gather, analyze and properly review information related to financial reporting, including fair value estimates, in a timely manner. In addition, due to our size and nature, segregation of all conflicting duties may not always be possible and may not be economically feasible. However, to the extent possible, the initiation of transactions, the custody of assets and the recording of transactions should be performed by separate individuals. Management evaluated the impact of our failure to have segregation of duties during our assessment of our disclosure controls and procedures and concluded that the control deficiency that resulted represented a material weakness.

Planned Remediation

Management, in coordination with the input, oversight and support of our Board of Directors, has identified the measures below to strengthen our control environment and internal control over financial reporting.

On August 19, 2020, Mr. Horne resigned as our Chief Financial Officer and was appointed our President, and later became our Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Cragun, who had served as the Company’s Chief Accounting Officer since October 1, 2018, succeeded Mr. Horne as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company. In January 2018, we engaged the services of a financial accounting advisory firm. In January 2019, we hired a Senior Vice President of Finance. In May 2019, we hired an Executive Vice President and General Counsel, who later became our President and General Counsel. Finally, in January 2021, we hired a Director of Reporting. These individuals were tasked with expanding and monitoring the Company’s internal controls, to provide an additional level of review of complex financial issues and to assist with financial reporting. On October 7, 2019, we created an Executive Committee which is currently comprised of our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. The Executive Committee meets on a daily basis to address the Company’s critical needs and provides a forum to approve transactions which are communicated to the Company’s Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of Finance on a bi-weekly basis by our Chief Executive Officer, who also reviews all of the Company’s material transactions and reviews the financial performance of each of our subsidiaries. On December 16, 2020, in consultation with the Chairman of the Audit Committee, we engaged a professional services firm to review management’s assessment of compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and to identify internal control process improvement opportunities. While these changes have improved and simplified our internal processes and resulted in enhanced controls, these enhancements have not been operating for a sufficient period of time for management to conclude, through testing, that these controls are operating effectively. Further, as we continue to expand our internal accounting department, the Chairman of the Audit Committee shall perform the following:

·assists with documentation and implementation of policies and procedures and monitoring of controls, and

·reviews all anticipated transactions that are not considered in the ordinary course of business to assist in the early identification of accounting issues and ensure that appropriate disclosures are made in the Company’s financial statements.

We are currently working to further improve and simplify our internal processes and implement enhanced controls, as discussed above, to address the material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting and to remedy the ineffectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. This material weakness will not be considered to be remediated until the applicable remediated controls are operating for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing, that these controls are operating effectively.

If our accounting controls and procedures are circumvented or otherwise fail to achieve their intended purposes, our business could be seriously harmed.

 

We evaluate our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of each fiscal quarter, and are annually reviewingreview and evaluatingevaluate our internal control over financial reporting in order to comply with Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”)the Commission’s rules relating to internal control over financial reporting adopted pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. If we fail to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting or our management does not timely assess the adequacy of such internal control, we may be subject to regulatory sanctions, and our reputation may decline.

 

We face significant competition, including changes in pricing.

The markets for our products are both competitive and price sensitive. Many competitors have significant financial, operations, sales and marketing resources, plus experience in research and development, and compete with us by offering lower prices. Competitors could develop new technologies that compete with our products to achieve a lower unit price. If a competitor develops lower cost and/or superior technology or cost-effective alternatives to our products and services, our business could be seriously harmed.

The markets for some of our products are also subject to specific competitive risks because these markets are highly price sensitive. Our competitors have competed in the past by lowering prices on certain products. If they do so again, we may be forced to respond by lowering our prices. This would reduce sales revenues and increase losses. Failure to anticipate and respond to price competition may also impact sales and aggravate losses.

Many of our competitors are larger and have greater financial and other resources than we do.

Our products compete and will compete with similar if not identical products produced by our competitors. These competitive products could be marketed by well-established, successful companies that possess greater financial, marketing, distribution personnel, and other resources than we do. Using said resources, these companies can implement extensive advertising and promotional campaigns, both generally and in response to specific marketing efforts by competitors. They can introduce new products to new markets more rapidly. In certain instances, competitors with greater financial resources may be able to enter a market in direct competition with us, offering attractive marketing tools to encourage the sale of products that compete with our products or present cost features that consumers may find attractive. 

Our growth strategy is subject to a significant degree of risk.

Our growth strategy through acquisitions involves a significant degree of risk. Some of the companies that we have identified as acquisition targets or made a significant investment in may not have a developed business or are experiencing inefficiencies and incur losses. Therefore, we may lose our investment in the event that these companies’ businesses do not develop as planned or that they are unable to achieve the anticipated cost efficiencies or reduction of losses.

Further, in order to implement our growth plan, we have hired additional staff and consultants to review potential investments and implement our plan. As a result, we have substantially increased our infrastructure and costs. If we fail to quickly find new companies that provide revenue to offset our costs, we will continue to experience losses. No assurance can be given that our product development and investments will produce sufficient revenues to offset these increases in expenditures. 

Our business and operations are growing rapidly. If we fail to effectively manage our growth, our business and operating results could be harmed.

We have experienced, and may continue to experience, rapid growth in our operations. This has placed, and may continue to place, significant demands on our management, operational and financial infrastructure. If we do not manage our growth effectively, the quality of our products and services could suffer, which could negatively affect our operating results. To effectively manage our growth, we must continue to improve our operational, financial and management controls and reporting systems and procedures. These systems improvements may require significant capital expenditures and management resources. Failure to implement these improvements could hurt our ability to manage our growth and our financial position.

Our operating results may vary from quarter to quarter.

Our operating results have in the past been subject to quarter-to-quarter fluctuations, and we expect that these fluctuations will continue, and may increase in magnitude, in future periods. Demand for our products is driven by many factors, including the availability of funding for our products in our customers’ capital budgets. There is a trend for some of our customers to place large orders near the end of a quarter or fiscal year, in part to spend remaining available capital budget funds. Seasonal fluctuations in customer demand for our products driven by budgetary and other concerns can create corresponding fluctuations in period-to-period revenues, and we therefore cannot assure you that our results in one period are necessarily indicative of our revenues in any future period. In addition, the number and timing of large individual sales and the ability to obtain acceptances of those sales, where applicable, have been difficult for us to predict, and large individual sales have, in some cases, occurred in quarters subsequent to those we anticipated, or have not occurred at all. The loss or deferral of one or more significant sales in a quarter could harm our operating results for such quarter. It is possible that, in some quarters, our operating results will be below the expectations of public market analysts or investors. In such events, or in the event adverse conditions prevail, the market price of our common stock may decline significantly.

Changes in the U.S. tax and other laws and regulations may adversely affect our business.

The U.S. government may revise tax laws, regulations or official interpretations in ways that could have a significant adverse effect on our business, including modifications that could reduce the profits that we can effectively realize from our international operations, or that could require costly changes to those operations, or the way in which they are structured. For example, the effective tax rates for most U.S. companies reflect the fact that income earned and reinvested outside the U.S. is generally taxed at local rates, which may be much lower than U.S. tax rates. If we expand abroad and there are changes in tax laws, regulations or interpretations that significantly increase the tax rates on non-U.S. income, our effective tax rate could increase and our profits could be reduced. If such increases resulted from our status as a U.S. company, those changes could place us at a disadvantage to our non-U.S. competitors if those competitors remain subject to lower local tax rates.

Our sales and profitability may be affected by changes in economic, business and industry conditions.

If the economic climate in the United States or abroad deteriorates, customers or potential customers could reduce or delay their technology investments. Reduced or delayed technology and entertainment investments could decrease our sales and profitability. In this environment, our customers may experience financial difficulty, cease operations and fail to budget or reduce budgets for the purchase of our products and professional services. This may lead to longer sales cycles, delays in purchase decisions, payment and collection, and can also result in downward price pressures, causing our sales and profitability to decline. In addition, general economic uncertainty and general declines in capital spending in the information technology sector make it difficult to predict changes in the purchasing requirements of our customers and the markets we serve. There are many other factors which could affect our business, including:

·The introduction and market acceptance of new technologies, products and services;
·New competitors and new forms of competition;
·The size and timing of customer orders (for retail distributed physical product); 
·The size and timing of capital expenditures by our customers; 
·Adverse changes in the credit quality of our customers and suppliers; 
·Changes in the pricing policies of, or the introduction of, new products and services by us or our competitors;
·Changes in the terms of our contracts with our customers or suppliers;
·The availability of products from our suppliers; and 
·Variations in product costs and the mix of products sold. 

These trends and factors could adversely affect our business, profitability and financial condition and diminish our ability to achieve our strategic objectives.

The sale of our products is dependent upon our ability to satisfy the proprietary requirements of our customers.

 

We depend upon a relatively narrow range of products for the majority of our revenue. Our success in marketing our products is dependent upon their continued acceptance by our customers. In some cases, our customers require that our products meet their own proprietary requirements. If we are unable to satisfy such requirements, or forecast and adapt to changes in such requirements, our business could be materially harmed.

 

The sale of our products is dependent on our ability to respond to rapid technological change, including evolving industry-wide standards, and may be adversely affected by the development, and acceptance by our customers, of new technologies which may compete with, or reduce the demand for, our products.

 

Rapid technological change, including evolving industry standards, could render our products obsolete. To the extent our customers adopt such new technology in place of our products, the sales of our products may be adversely affected. Such competition may also increase pricing pressure for our products and adversely affect the revenues from such products.

 

Our limited ability to protect our proprietary information and technology may adversely affect our ability to compete, and our products could infringe upon the intellectual property rights of others, resulting in claims against us, the results of which could be costly.

 

Many of our products consist entirely or partly of proprietary technology owned by us. Although we seek to protect our technology through a combination of copyrights, trade secret laws and contractual obligations, these protections may not be sufficient to prevent the wrongful appropriation of our intellectual property, nor will they prevent our competitors from independently developing technologies that are substantially equivalent or superior to our proprietary technology. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries do not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. In order to defend our proprietary rights in the technology utilized in our products from third party infringement, we may be required to institute legal proceedings, which would be costly and would divert our resources from the development of our business. If we are unable to successfully assert and defend our proprietary rights in the technology utilized in our products, our future results could be adversely affected.

 

Although we attempt to avoid infringing known proprietary rights of third parties in our product development efforts, we may become subject to legal proceedings and claims for alleged infringement from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Any claims relating to the infringement of third-party proprietary rights, even if not meritorious, could result in costly litigation, divert management’smanagement’s attention and resources, require us to reengineer or cease sales of our products or require us to enter into royalty or license agreements which are not advantageous to us. In addition, parties making claims may be able to obtain an injunction, which could prevent us from selling our products in the United States or abroad.


If we are unable to satisfy our customers’ specific product quality, certification or network requirements, our business could be disrupted and our financial condition could be harmed.

Our customers demand that our products meet stringent quality, performance and reliability standards. We have, from time to time, experienced problems in satisfying such standards. Defects or failures have occurred in the past, and may in the future occur, relating to our product quality, performance and reliability. From time to time, our customers also require us to implement specific changes to our products to allow these products to operate within their specific network configurations. If we are unable to remedy these failures or defects or if we cannot effect such required product modifications, we could experience lost revenues, increased costs, including inventory write-offs, warranty expense and costs associated with customer support, delays in, or cancellations or rescheduling of, orders or shipments and product returns or discounts, any of which would harm our business.

 

If we ship products that contain defects, the market acceptance of our products and our reputation will be harmed and our customers could seek to recover their damages from us.

 

Our products are complex, and despite extensive testing, may contain defects or undetected errors or failures that may become apparent only after our products have been shipped to our customers and installed in their network or after product features or new versions are released. Any such defect, error or failure could result in failure of market acceptance of our products or damage to our reputation or relations with our customers, resulting in substantial costs for us and our customers as well as the cancellation of orders, warranty costs and product returns. In addition, any defects, errors, misuse of our products or other potential problems within or out of our control that may arise from the use of our products could result in financial or other damages to our customers. Our customers could seek to have us pay for these losses. Although we maintain product liability insurance, it may not be adequate.

 

OurThe rights of the holders of common stock price is volatile.may be impaired by the potential issuance of preferred stock.

 

Our certificate of incorporation gives our board of directors the right to create new series of preferred stock. As a result, the board of directors may, without stockholder approval, issue preferred stock with voting, dividend, conversion, liquidation or other rights which could adversely affect the voting power and equity interest of the holders of common stock. Preferred stock, iswhich could be issued with the right to more than one vote per share, could be utilized as a method of discouraging, delaying or preventing a change of control. The possible impact on takeover attempts could adversely affect the price of our common stock. Although we have no present intention to issue any shares of preferred stock or to create a series of preferred stock, we may issue such shares in the future.

The requirements of being a public company may strain our resources, divert management’s attention and affect our ability to attract and retain qualified board members.

We are a public company and subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Exchange Act requires, among other things, that we file annual, quarterly and current reports with respect to our business and financial condition. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls for financial reporting. For example, Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires that our management report on the effectiveness of our internal controls structure and procedures for financial reporting. Section 404 compliance may divert internal resources and will take a significant amount of time and effort to complete. If we fail to maintain compliance under Section 404, or if in the future management determines that our internal control over financial reporting are not effective as defined under Section 404, we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the NYSE American should we in the future be listed on this market, the NYSE MKT. In the past, our trading price has fluctuated widely, depending on many factors that may have little to do with our operationsCommission, or business prospects. The exercise of outstanding options and warrants may adversely affect our stock price and a shareholder’s percentage of ownership. As of December 31, 2016, we had outstanding options to purchase an aggregate of 2,256,000 shares of common stock, with a weighted average exercise price of $0.83 per share, exercisable at prices ranging from $0.65 to $1.69 per share and warrants to purchase up 1,749,126 shares of common stock at exercise prices ranging from $0.01 to $0.90 per share.

In addition, we have contractually agreed to register shares of common stock, and common stock underlying outstanding warrants and convertible debt in connection with private placementother regulatory authorities. Furthermore, investor perceptions of our securities. Our shares of common stock are thinly traded. Therefore, the resale ofcompany may suffer, and this could cause a large number of shares of common stock and common stock underlying warrants and convertible debt by the selling stockholders may adversely affectdecline in the market price of our common stock. Any failure of our internal controls could have a material adverse effect on our stated results of operations and harm our reputation. If we are unable to implement these changes effectively or efficiently, it could harm our operations, financial reporting or financial results and could result in an adverse opinion on internal controls from our independent auditors. We may need to hire a number of additional employees with public accounting and disclosure experience in order to meet our ongoing obligations as a public company, particularly if we become fully subject to Section 404 and its auditor attestation requirements, which will increase costs. Our management team and other personnel will need to devote a substantial amount of time to new compliance initiatives and to meeting the obligations that are associated with being a public company, which may divert attention from other business concerns, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

If we fail to comply with the rules under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 related to accounting controls and procedures, or if we discover material weaknesses and deficiencies in our internal control and accounting procedures, our stock price could decline significantly and raising capital could be more difficult.

If we fail to comply with the rules under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 related to disclosure controls and procedures, or, if we discover material weaknesses and other deficiencies in our internal control and accounting procedures, our stock price could decline significantly and raising capital could be more difficult. Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires annual management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. If material weaknesses or significant deficiencies are discovered or if we otherwise fail to achieve and maintain the adequacy of our internal control, we may not be able to ensure that we can conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal controls over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Moreover, effective internal controls are necessary for us to produce reliable financial reports and are important to helping prevent financial fraud. If we cannot provide reliable financial reports or prevent fraud, our business and operating results could be harmed, investors could lose confidence in our reported financial information, and the trading price of our common stock could drop significantly.

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports about our business, or if they change their recommendations regarding our stock adversely, our stock price and trading volume could decline.

The trading market for our common stock will be influenced by the research and reports that industry or securities analysts publish about us or our business. Our research coverage by industry and financial analysts is currently limited. Even if our analyst coverage increases, if one or more of the analysts who cover us downgrade our stock, our stock price would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts cease coverage of our company or fail to regularly publish reports on us, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which in turn could cause our stock price or trading volume to decline.

The elimination of monetary liability against our directors, officers and employees under law and the existence of indemnification rights for or obligations to our directors, officers and employees may result in substantial expenditures by us and may discourage lawsuits against our directors, officers and employees. 

Our certificate of incorporation contains a provision permitting us to eliminate the personal liability of our directors to us and our stockholders for damages for the breach of a fiduciary duty as a director or officer to the extent provided by Delaware law. We may also have contractual indemnification obligations under any future employment agreements with our officers. The foregoing indemnification obligations could result in us incurring substantial expenditures to cover the cost of settlement or damage awards against directors and officers, which we may be unable to recoup. These provisions and the resulting costs may also discourage us from bringing a lawsuit against directors and officers for breaches of their fiduciary duties, and may similarly discourage the filing of derivative litigation by our stockholders against our directors and officers even though such actions, if successful, might otherwise benefit us and our stockholders. 

We do not anticipate paying dividends on our common stock and, accordingly, stockholders must rely on stock appreciation for any return on their investment.

We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our common stock and do not expect to do so in the foreseeable future. The declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on various factors, including our operating results, financial condition, future prospects and any other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors. You should not rely on an investment in our company if you require dividend income from your investment in our company. The success of your investment will likely depend entirely upon any future appreciation of the market price of our common stock, which is uncertain and unpredictable. There is no guarantee that our common stock will appreciate in value.

 

Item

ITEM 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments.

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item

ITEM 2.

Properties.

PROPERTIES

 

Our corporate headquarters utilize 12,396office utilizes 7,102 square foot of leased office engineering, laboratory, and warehouse space in Fremont,Las Vega, Nevada. Our Las Vegas lease commenced in January 2021 and expires in December 2022. The annual base rent under the lease, payable on a monthly basis, is $238,526 during the first year to $242,816 during the second year.

Our Newport Beach office utilizes 2,983 square foot of leased office space in Newport Beach, California. Our headquarterNewport Beach lease commenced in March 2018 and expired in February 2021. Currently, we rent this location on November 1, 2012 and expires on June 30, 2019.a month-to-month basis. The annual base rent under the lease, payable on a monthly basis, increases during the term of the lease from approximately $138,000$122,000 during the first year to approximately $160,000$128,000 during the final year. The lease also provides for one option to renew for a term of five years.

 


In addition, we lease 35,178 square-feet of other space domestically that includes office, engineering, laboratory and warehouse space in both California and Connecticut. The annual base rent under these leases, payable on a monthly basis, was approximately $468,000 during 2020. These leases expire between June 2021 and May 2026.

 

We also lease facilities internationally. In September 2010, our wholly-owned subsidiary, DPL,Gresham Power, entered into a fifteen-year lease for its 25,000 square-foot facility in Salisbury, the United Kingdom, where it designs, develops, manufactures, markets and distributes commercial and military power products for the European market. Sales and service support staff for its European network of distributors are located within the building together with other functions, such as engineering and administration. DPL’sGresham Power Electronics’ rent expense is approximately $12,000$11,600 per month, and DPL hasGresham Power Electronics exercised the option to cancelextend the lease after ten years.through September 2024. Further, in June 2011, Enertec entered into a ten-year lease for its 32,900 square-foot facility in Karmiel, Israel, where it manufactures specialized electronic systems for the Israel military market. Enertec’s rent expense is approximately $20,000 per month, In November 2020, we acquired Relec. In July 2020, Relec entered into a ten-year lease for its 7,490 square-foot facility in Dorset, the United Kingdom, where it markets and distributes power electronics and display solutions for mission critical rail, industrial, medical, telecoms and military applications. Relec’s rent expense is approximately $5,000 per month.

 

We currently anticipate that the current leased space will be sufficient to support our current and foreseen future needs.

 

ITEM 3.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Item 3.          Legal Proceedings.

Derivative Action

 

None.On July 31, 2018, Ethan Young and Greg Young (collectively, “Plaintiffs”) filed a stockholder derivative complaint (the “Complaint”) in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (the “Court”) against the Company as the nominal defendant, as well as its current directors and a former director, in action captioned, Ethan Young and Greg Young, Derivatively on Behalf of Nominal Defendant, DPW Holdings, Inc. v. Milton C. Ault, III, Amos Kohn, William B. Horne, Jeff Bentz, Mordechai Rosenberg, Robert O. Smith, and Kristine Ault and DPW Holdings, Inc., as the nominal defendant, (collectively, “Defendants”) Case No. 18-cv-6587 (the “Derivative Action”).

 

Item 4.          Mine Safety Disclosures.The Complaint alleged violations of state law and breaches of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment and gross mismanagement by the individual defendants, in connection with various transactions entered into by the Company.

The Defendants moved to dismiss the Complaint, and on February 25, 2019, the Court granted Defendants motion to dismiss, in its entirety, without prejudice, and also granted Plaintiffs leave to amend their Complaint.

On March 11, 2019, Plaintiffs filed an amended complaint asserting violations of breaches of fiduciary duties and unjust enrichment claims based on the previously pled transactions (the “Amended Complaint”).

On March 25, 2019, Defendants filed a motion to dismiss (the “Motion”) the Amended Complaint. On May 21, 2019, the Court granted in part, and denied in part, the Defendants’ Motion. On February 24, 2020, the Company entered into a definitive settlement agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) with Plaintiffs to settle the claims asserted in the Amended Complaint.

On April 15, 2020, the Court issued an Order (the “Order”) approving a Motion for Preliminary Approval of Settlement in the Derivative Action. On July 16, 2020, the Court issued an Order (the “Final Order”) approving a Motion for Final Approval of Settlement in the Derivative Action filed against DPW as a Nominal Defendant and its directors who served on its board of directors on July 31, 2018 who were not dismissed from the action as a result of the Court’s partial grant of the Motion.

On July 16, 2020, the Court entered a Judgment based upon the Final Order.

Under the terms of the Final Order, the Board shall adopt and/or maintain certain resolutions and amendments to the Company’s committee charters and/or bylaws, to ensure adherence to certain corporate governance policies (collectively, the “Reforms”). The Final Order further provides that such Reforms shall remain in effect for a period of no less than five (5) years and shall be subject to any of the following: (a) a determination by a majority of the independent directors that the Reforms are no longer in the best interest of the Company, including, but not limited to, due to circumstances making the Reforms no longer applicable, feasible, or available on commercially reasonable terms, or (b) modifications which the Company reasonably believes are required by applicable law or regulation.

In connection with the Settlement Agreement, the parties have agreed upon a payment of attorneys’ fees in the amount of $600,000, which sum was paid by our Director & Officer liability insurance. The Settlement Agreement contains no admission of wrongdoing.

We have always maintained and continue to believe that neither we nor our current or former directors engaged in any wrongdoing or otherwise committed any violation of federal or state securities laws or any other laws or regulations.

Blockchain Mining Supply and Services, Ltd.

On November 28, 2018, Blockchain Mining Supply and Services, Ltd. (“Blockchain Mining”) a vendor who sold computers to our subsidiary, filed a Complaint (the “Complaint”) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and our subsidiary, Digital Farms, Inc. (f/k/a Super Crypto Mining, Inc.), in an action captioned Blockchain Mining Supply and Services, Ltd. v. Super Crypto Mining, Inc. and DPW Holdings, Inc., Case No. 18-cv-11099.

The Complaint asserts claims for breach of contract and promissory estoppel against us and our subsidiary arising from the subsidiary’s alleged failure to honor its obligations under the purchase agreement. The Complaint seeks monetary damages in excess of $1,388,495, plus attorneys’ fees and costs.

We believe that these claims are without merit and intend to vigorously defend them.

On April 13, 2020, we and our subsidiary, jointly filed a motion to dismiss the Complaint in its entirety as against us, and the promissory estoppel claim as against our subsidiary. On the same day, our subsidiary also filed a partial Answer to the Complaint in connection with the breach of contract claim.

On April 29, 2020, Blockchain Mining filed an amended complaint (the “Amended Complaint”). The Amended Complaint asserts the same causes of action and seeks the same damages as the initial Complaint.

On May 13, 2020, we and our subsidiary, jointly filed a motion to dismiss the Amended Complaint in its entirety as against us, and the promissory estoppel claim as against of our subsidiary. On the same day, our subsidiary also filed a partial Answer to the Amended Complaint in connection with the breach of contract claim.

In its partial Answer, the Company’s subsidiary admitted to the validity of the contract at issue and also asserted numerous affirmative defenses concerning the proper calculation of damages.

On December 4, 2020, the Court issued an Order directing the Parties to engage in limited discovery (the “Limited Discovery”) which was completed on March 4, 2021. In connection therewith, the Court also denied Defendants’ Motion to Dismiss without prejudice.

Upon completion of Limited Discovery, the Company and its subsidiary anticipate filing a motion to dismiss the Amended Complaint.

Based on our assessment of the facts underlying the claims, the uncertainty of litigation, and the preliminary stage of the case, we cannot reasonably estimate the potential loss or range of loss that may result from this action. Notwithstanding, we have established a reserve in the amount of the unpaid portion of the purchase agreement. An unfavorable outcome may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Ding Gu (a/k/a Frank Gu) and Xiaodan Wang Litigation

On January 17, 2020, Ding Gu (a/k/a Frank Gu) (“Gu”) and Xiaodan Wang (“Wang” and with “Gu” collectively, “Plaintiffs”), filed a Complaint (the “Complaint”) in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of New York against us and our Chief Executive Officer, Milton C. Ault, III, in an action captioned Ding Gu (a/k/a Frank Gu) and Xiaodan Wang v. DPW Holdings, Inc. and Milton C. Ault III (a/k/a Milton Todd Ault III a/k/a Todd Ault), Index No. 650438/2020.

The Complaint asserts causes of action for declaratory judgment, specific performance, breach of contract, conversion, attorneys’ fees, permanent injunction, enforcement of Guaranty, unjust enrichment, money had and received, and fraud arising from: (i) a series of transactions entered into between Gu and us, as well as Gu and Ault, in or about May 2019; and (ii) a term sheet entered into between Plaintiffs and DPW, in or about July 2019. The Complaint seeks, among other things, monetary damages in excess of $1,100,000, plus a decree of specific performance directing DPW to deliver unrestricted shares of DPW’s common stock to Gu, plus attorneys’ fees and costs.

We believe that these claims are without merit and intend to vigorously defend them.

On May 4, 2020, we and Ault jointly filed a motion to dismiss the Complaint in its entirety, with prejudice.

On July 24, 2020, Plaintiffs filed their opposition papers to our joint motion to dismiss.

The motion to dismiss has been fully briefed and is currently pending before the court.

Based on our assessment of the facts underlying the above claims, the uncertainty of litigation, and the preliminary stage of the case, we cannot reasonably estimate the potential loss or range of loss that may result from this action. An unfavorable outcome may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Subpoena

The Company received a subpoena from the SEC for the voluntary production of documents. The Company is fully cooperating with this non-public, fact-finding inquiry and managements believe that the Company has operated its business in compliance with all applicable laws. The subpoena expressly provides that the inquiry is not to be construed as an indication by the Commission or its staff that any violations of the federal securities laws have occurred, nor should it be considered a reflection upon any person, entity or security. However, there can be no assurance as to the outcome of this matter.

I.AM Bankruptcy Filing

On November 2, 2020, I.AM, Inc. filed a voluntary petition for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 in the United States Bankruptcy Court in the Central District of California, Santa Ana Division, case number 8:20-bk-13076.

Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP

On November 20, 2020, the Company’s former counsel, Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP as successor to Sichenzia Ross Ference Kesner LLP (“SRF”) filed a Complaint in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Company and two of its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company Defendants”), in an action captioned Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP as successor to Sichenzia Ross Ference Kesner LLP v. Digital Power Corporation, et al., Case No. 20-CV-09811-JGK. The Complaint asserts claims for breach of contract, account stated, unjust enrichment and quantum meruit, against the Company Defendants, and seeks monetary damages in the amount of $2,558,122 plus interest thereon.

On January 4, 2021, the Company Defendants filed a motion for a more definite statement.

On January 11, 2021, the Court held a conference in connection with the Company Defendants’ Motion wherein the Court denied the Company Defendants’ Motion as moot, ordered SRF to amend its Complaint by on or before January 25, 2021, and referred the matter to mediation.

On January 25, 2021, SRF filed a First Amended Complaint in the action and dropped the two subsidiaries as parties to the action. The First Amended Complaint asserts claims for breach of contract, account stated, unjust enrichment and quantum meruit, against the Company, and seeks monetary damages in the amount of $2,518,468 plus interest thereon.

On or about February 18, 2021, SRF, the Company Defendants, and various of the Company Defendants’ related parties entered into a confidential settlement agreement.

On or about February 23, 2021, SRF filed, on behalf of itself and the Company Defendants, a stipulation of voluntary dismissal, with prejudice.

50

Other Litigation Matters

The Company is involved in litigation arising from other matters in the ordinary course of business. We are regularly subject to claims, suits, regulatory and government investigations, and other proceedings involving labor and employment, commercial disputes, and other matters. Such claims, suits, regulatory and government investigations, and other proceedings could result in fines, civil penalties, or other adverse consequences.

Certain of these outstanding matters include speculative, substantial or indeterminate monetary amounts. We record a liability when we believe that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If we determine that a loss is reasonably possible and the loss or range of loss can be estimated, we disclose the reasonably possible loss. We evaluate developments in our legal matters that could affect the amount of liability that has been previously accrued, and the matters and related reasonably possible losses disclosed, and make adjustments as appropriate. Significant judgment is required to determine both likelihood of there being and the estimated amount of a loss related to such matters.

With respect to our other outstanding matters, based on our current knowledge, we believe that the amount or range of reasonably possible loss will not, either individually or in aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. However, the outcome of such matters is inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties. 

ITEM 4.MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

Not Applicableapplicable.

 

PART II

 

ITEM 5.MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Item 5.          Market For Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters And Issuer Purchases Of Equity Securities.

Market Information

(a)

 Market Information.

 

Our common stock is listed on the NYSE MKTAmerican under the symbol DPW. The following table sets forth our high and low sale prices per share of our common stock as reported by www.nasdaq.com on the NYSE MKTAmerican through March 31, 20172021 and for each quarter for the past two fiscal years.

 

  

NYSE-MKT

 
         

2017

 

High

  

Low

 

January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017

 $1.75  $0.59 
         

For 2016

        

December 31, 2016

 $0.85  $0.52 

September 30, 2016

 $1.40  $0.39 

June 30, 2016

 $0.62  $0.35 

March 31, 2016

 $0.60  $0.39 
         

For 2015

        

December 31, 2015

 $0.82  $0.54 

September 30, 2015

 $0.95  $0.61 

June 30, 2015

 $1.25  $0.79 

March 31, 2015

 $1.30  $0.87 

 

(b)
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2019
  High Low
First Quarter $128.00 $11.18
Second Quarter $15.16 $4.88
Third Quarter $11.60 $1.57
Fourth Quarter $2.50 $0.65

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2020
  High Low
First Quarter $2.48 $0.53
Second Quarter $6.55 $0.71
Third Quarter $5.24 $1.55
Fourth Quarter $10.94 $1.44
    
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2021
  High Low
First Quarter $7.99 $2.61

On March 31, 2021, the last sales price per share of our common stock was $3.29.

Record Holders

 

As of MarchDecember 31, 2017, there was an aggregate of 8,856,8512021, shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding and were owned by approximately 84 holders of record. A number of holders of our common stock are “street name” or beneficial holders whose shares of record are held by approximately 68 holders of record.banks, brokers, and other financial institutions.

 


Dividend Policy

(c)

Dividends

We have not declared or paid any cash dividends since our inception, and we do not intend to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. The declaration of dividends in the future, if any, will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon our earnings, capital requirements, and financial position.

 

Equity Compensation Information

 The information required by this item regarding equity compensation plans is incorporated by reference to the information set forth in Item 12 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

On February 25, 2020, principal of $295,000 from a debt security issued on February 5, 2020 was satisfied through the issuance of 203,448 shares of our common stock. The foregoing issuance was exempt from registration upon reliance of Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act.

Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities

Not applicable.

(d)

Securities AuthorizedITEM 6.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.

As a Smaller Reporting Company, we are electing to follow scaled disclosure reporting obligations and therefore are not required to provide the information requested by this Item.

52

ITEM 7.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include statements regarding, among others, (a) our expectations about possible business combinations, (b) our growth strategies, (c) our future financing plans, and (d) our anticipated needs for working capital. Forward-looking statements, which involve assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “approximate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “budget,” “could,” “forecast,” “might,” “predict,” “shall” or “project,” or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. This information may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements. These statements may be found in this Annual Report.

Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, potential target businesses, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, by their nature, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, without limitation, the risks outlined under “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report, changes in local, regional, national or global political, economic, business, competitive, market (supply and demand) and regulatory conditions and the following:

·Adverse economic conditions;
·Our ability to effectively execute our business plan;

·Inability to raise sufficient additional capital to operate our business;

·Our ability to manage our expansion, growth and operating expenses;

·Our ability to evaluate and measure our business, prospects and performance metrics;

·Our ability to compete and succeed in highly competitive and evolving industries;

·Our ability to respond and adapt to changes in technology and customer behavior;

·Our ability to protect our intellectual property and to develop, maintain and enhance a strong brand; and

·Other specific risks referred to in the section entitled “Risk Factors”.

We caution you therefore that you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements as statements of historical fact or as guarantees or assurances of future performance. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Annual Report. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or other information contained herein unless required by law.

Information regarding market and industry statistics contained in this Annual Report is included based on information available to us that we believe is accurate. It is generally based on academic and other publications that are not produced for purposes of securities offerings or economic analysis. Forecasts and other forward-looking information obtained from these sources are subject to the same qualifications and the additional uncertainties accompanying any estimates of future market size, revenue and market acceptance of products and services. Except as required by U.S. federal securities laws, we have no obligation to update forward-looking information to reflect actual results or changes in assumptions or other factors that could affect those statements. See the section entitled “Risk Factors” for a more detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that may have an impact on our future results.

In this Annual Report, the “Company,” “Ault Global,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Ault Global Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Gresham Worldwide, Inc. (“GWW”), Coolisys Technologies Corp. (“Coolisys”), Gresham Power Electronics Ltd. (f/k/a Digital Power Limited) (“Gresham Power”), Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd (“Enertec”), Relec Electronics Ltd., Digital Power Lending, LLC (“DP Lending”), Ault Alliance, Inc. (“Ault Alliance”), Tansocial, LLC and Digital Farms, Inc. (“Digital Farms”) and our majority owned subsidiaries, Microphase Corporation and Alliance Cloud Services.

53

Recent Developments

Reorganization of Our Corporate Structure

Commencing in October and continuing through February 2021, we reorganized our corporate structure pursuant to a series of transactions among our company and our directly and indirectly-owned subsidiaries. The purpose of the reorganization was to align our various businesses by the products and services that constitute the majority of each subsidiaries’ revenues. As a result of the foregoing transactions, our corporate structure is as follows:

 

Other Matters

On August 5, 2020, we received $2,000,000 from Esousa Holdings, LLC (“Esousa”) and on October 22, 2020, we issued to Esousa a promissory note in the principal face amount of $2,000,000, with an interest rate of 13%. The outstanding principal face amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest, is due by November 3, 2020, or as otherwise provided in accordance with the terms set forth therein. In connection therewith, we delivered to Esousa a warrant to purchase 729,927 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $3.01. The exercise of the warrant is subject to approval of the NYSE American. The foregoing debt was paid off in December of 2020.

On October 2, 2020, we entered into an At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with Ascendiant Capital Markets, LLC to sell shares of common stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $8,975,000 from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “2020 ATM Offering”). On December 1, 2020, we filed an amendment to the prospectus supplement with the SEC to increase the amount of common stock that may be offered and sold in the ATM Offering, as amended under the Sales Agreement to $40,000,000 in the aggregate, inclusive of the up to $8,975,000 in shares of common stock previously sold in the 2020 ATM Offering. The offer and sale of shares of common stock from the 2020 ATM Offering was made pursuant to our effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) which became effective on January 11, 2018. Through December 31, 2020, we had received gross proceeds of $39,978,350 through the sale of 12,582,000 shares of common stock from the 2020 ATM Offering. The 2020 ATM Offering was terminated on December 31, 2020.

On October 27, 2020, we issued to Esousa two unsecured promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $1,200,000, of which $850,000 was received prior to September 30, 2020. The principal amount of $850,000 of the first note dated October 27, 2020, together with all accrued unpaid interest at an annual rate of 14%, was due and payable on December 28, 2020. The principal amount of $350,000 of the second note dated October 27, 2020, together with all accrued unpaid interest at an annual rate of 14%, was due and payable on January 7, 2021. Both unsecured promissory notes were repaid on December 14, 2020. In connection with the two promissory notes, we delivered to the Esousa (i) a warrant dated October 27, 2020, to purchase 425,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.20, and (ii) a warrant dated October 27, 2020, to purchase 148,936 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.59. The exercise of the warrants is subject to approval of the NYSE American.

On November 9, 2020, our wholly-owned subsidiary Gresham Worldwide, Inc. (“GWW”) entered into a stock purchase agreement with Tabard Holdings Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of GWW (“Tabard”), the legal and beneficial owners (the “Sellers”) of 100% of the issued shares in the capital of Relec Electronics Ltd., a corporation organized under the laws of England and Wales (“Relec”), and Peter Lappin, in his capacity as the representative of the Sellers. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the stock purchase agreement, Tabard agreed to acquire Relec pursuant to the stock purchase agreement whereby the Sellers will sell to Tabard (i) 100% of the issued shares of Relec. The purchase price is approximately £3,000,000 plus an amount equal to Relec’s cash balance immediately prior to closing of the acquisition. The acquisition of Relec was consummated on November 30, 2020.

On November 19, 2020, we issued to Esousa and two other institutional investors unsecured promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $2,250,000, with an interest rate of 12%. The outstanding principal face amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest, was due by February 18, 2021, or as otherwise provided in accordance with the terms set forth therein. These unsecured promissory notes were repaid on December 28, 2020. In connection therewith, we delivered warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,323,531 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $1.87, subject to adjustments. Exercise of the warrants is subject to approval of the NYSE American.

On January 29, 2021, Alliance Cloud Services, LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ault Alliance, closed on the acquisition of a 617,000 square foot energy-efficient facility located on a 34.5 acre site in southern Michigan for a purchase price of $3,991,497. The purchase price was paid by the Company using its own working capital.

Settlement of Derivative Litigation

On February 24, 2020, we entered into a definitive settlement agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) intended to settle the previously disclosed derivative litigation captioned Ethan Young and Greg Young, Derivatively on Behalf of Nominal Defendant, DPW Holdings, Inc. v. Milton C. Ault, III, Amos Kohn, William B. Horne, Jeff Bentz, Mordechai Rosenberg, Robert O. Smith, and Kristine Ault and DPW Holdings, Inc., as the nominal defendant (Case No. 18-cv-6587) (as amended on March 11, 2019, the “Amended Complaint”) against us and certain of our officers and directors pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (the “Court”). As previously disclosed, the Amended Complaint alleges violations including breaches of fiduciary duties and unjust enrichment claims based on the previously pled transactions.

On April 15, 2020, the Court issued an Order (the “Order”) approving a Motion for Preliminary Approval of Settlement in the Derivative Action. On July 16, 2020, the Court issued an Order (the “Final Order”) approving a Motion for Final Approval of Settlement in the Derivative Action filed against DPW as a Nominal Defendant and its directors who served on its board of directors on July 31, 2018 who were not dismissed from the action as a result of the Court’s partial grant of the Motion.

In accordance with the terms of the Final Order, the Board has adopted certain resolutions and amendments to our committee charters and/or bylaws, to ensure adherence to certain corporate governance policies (collectively, the “Reforms”). The Final Order further provides that such Reforms shall remain in effect for a period of no less than five (5) years and shall be subject to any of the following: (a) a determination by a majority of the independent directors that the Reforms are no longer in our best interest, including, but not limited to, due to circumstances making the Reforms no longer applicable, feasible, or available on commercially reasonable terms, or (b) modifications which we reasonably believe are required by applicable law or regulation.

In connection with the Settlement Agreement, the parties agreed to a payment of attorneys’ fees in the amount of $600,000, which sum was paid by our directors & officers liability insurance. The Settlement Agreement contains no admission of wrongdoing.

We have always maintained and continue to believe that neither we nor our current or former directors engaged in any wrongdoing or otherwise committed any violation of federal or state securities laws or any other laws or regulations.

Impact of Coronavirus on Our Operations

Our business has been disrupted and materially adversely affected by the recent outbreak of COVID-19. As a result of measures imposed by the governments in affected regions, businesses and schools have been suspended due to quarantines intended to contain this outbreak and many people have been forced to work from home in those areas. The spread of COVID-19 from China to other countries has resulted in the Director General of the World Health Organization declaring the outbreak of COVID-19 as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, based on the advice of the Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (2005), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the U.S. issued a warning on February 25, 2020 regarding the likely spread of COVID-19 to the U.S. While the COVID-19 outbreak is still in its early stages, international stock markets have begun to reflect the uncertainty associated with the slow-down in the American, Israeli and UK economies and the reduced levels of international travel experienced since the beginning of January and the significant decline in the Dow Industrial Average at the end of February 2020 was largely attributed to the effects of COVID-19. We are still assessing our business operations and system supports and the impact COVID-19 may have on our results and financial condition, but there can be no assurance that this analysis will enable us to avoid part or all of any impact from the spread of COVID-19 or its consequences, including downturns in business sentiment generally or in our sectors in particular.

Our operations are located in Alameda County, CA, Orange County, CA, Fairfield County, CT, the United Kingdom, Israel and members of our senior management work in Seattle, WA and New York, NY, which is also the location of the offices of the Company’s independent auditor. We have been following the recommendations of local health authorities to minimize exposure risk for its employees for the past several weeks, including the temporary closures of our offices and having employees work remotely to the extent possible, which has to an extent adversely affected their efficiency.

Updates by business unit are as follows:

·Ault Global’s corporate headquarters, located in Las Vegas, NV, largely operates normally with adherence to the governor’s Directives and Declarations. Certain individuals deemed to be high risk may work remotely, as required.

·Ault Global’s finance and accounting offices, located in Newport Beach, CA, has begun working remotely, based on the occupancy and social distancing order from the Orange County Health Officer (http://www.ochealthinfo.com/phs/about/epidasmt/epi/dip/prevention/novel_coronavirus). The administrative staff has tested the secure remote access systems and technology infrastructure to adjust working arrangements for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plansits employees and believes it has adequate internal communications system and can remain operational with a remote staff.

·Coolisys, located in Milpitas, CA, had largely returned to normal operations with adherence to guidelines published by the Santa Clara Public Health Department. Certain individuals deemed to be high risk may work remotely as required. Coolisys has experienced disruption in its supply chain as a result of the COVID-19 impact on its vendors.

·Microphase operates a production facility in Connecticut. In March 2020, the Defense Department designated Microphase an “essential” operation of critical infrastructure workers as part of the defense industrial base. To limit the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Microphase implemented a series of protocols to limit access to the facility, heighten sanitization, facilitate social distancing and require face coverings. The Company asked workers to travel only as necessary and limit exposure to others. All employees, including management, that do not have to be in the facility work remotely whenever possible. Any employees who come in contact or potential contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or who traveled outside the immediate area went into quarantine and must provide proof of negative tests before returning to work. Rigorous adherence to these protocols enabled Microphase to operate without disruption for 10 months.

In December 2020, five employees tested positive for COVID-19. Microphase temporarily shut down the production facility in Connecticut for a week for deep cleaning and to have all employees tested for COVID-19. Since the outbreak disproportionately affected assembly workers, Microphase’s assembly operations remained shut down for three weeks until all assembly workers had at least 2 negative tests. Operations resumed as workers gradually in late December and the workforce returned to full strength in mid-January 2021.

The disruption to production operations deferred order completion and delayed shipments with a significant decrease in revenue from forecast for December of 2020 and a lingering, but only partial and less substantial, effect on January 2021 and February 2021 revenue. Disruption of production added costs from paying employees who could not work and deferred revenue from delayed shipments.

Microphase continues to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing, face coverings and heightened sanitizing to keep the workforce safe and healthy. Microphase has strictly limited access to its facility and mandated that all employees minimize exposure to the others. All Microphase employees who can work from home will do so while COVID-19 levels remain high in the surrounding communities. However, some workers may still need to work in proximity to others. Management is working with state and federal authorities to get all employees vaccinated on a priority basis as “essential workers” whom the DoD has officially designated as “critical infrastructure workforce” as part of the “defense industrial base.” Some employees have already received vaccinations and we expect all employees to have both vaccinations by the end of March 2021.

·Gresham Power suspended production operations in its Salisbury, UK facility from mid-March through June 2020 before resuming production until a subsequent shutdown in November 2020. Notwithstanding the current lockdown, production operations have resumed to complete work on order for products critically needed for military operations. However, engineers, back office staff and management have worked from home as much as possible throughout the pandemic period and continue to do so. The pandemic has disrupted production at times and delayed contract actions as well as other customer decision making, which decreased revenue realized in 2020. 

·Relec, which does not operate any manufacturing or assembly facilities, has not experienced any material COVID-19 related disruptions to date and continues normal operations notwithstanding the lockdown in the United Kingdom. All employees who can work from home do so. Others who must work at the Wareham site to move product or access systems continue to do so under strict safety protocols with face coverings, social distancing and heightened attention to sanitization. The principal impact on Relec’s operations has come from deferral of some orders and modest decrease in revenue year-over-year. We presently expect business to rebound and resume a steady growth pattern in the third quarter of 2021, although the pandemic may impact this outlook.

·The Israeli government exempted Enertec from pandemic-related lockdown orders to keep production operations open for key projects that impact national security. Approximately 50% of the Enertec’s workforce is working remotely.  Enertec incurred additional costs for increased sanitizing costs, personal protective equipment, increased virtual operations, measures to facilitate social distancing and other precautions to avoid the spread of COVID-19. The pandemic also affected Enertec’s customers and supply chain partners, slowing order processing, materials and parts delivery and service order completion. The principal impact on Enertec’s business has come from deferral of customer decisions and order issuance.  We presently expect business to rebound and resume substantial growth in second quarter of 2021 as orders increase to address deferred, pent up demand.

 

The following table sets forth information asCOVID-19 global pandemic has been unprecedented and unpredictable and is likely to continue to result in significant national and global economic disruption, which may adversely affect our business. Based on the Company’s current assessment, however, the Company does not expect any material impact on its long-term strategic plans, its operations, or its liquidity due to the worldwide spread of December 31, 2016, with respect to compensation plans under which our shares of common stock are authorized for issuance, aggregated as follows:the COVID-19 virus. However, the Company is actively monitoring this situation and the possible effects on its financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, and industry.

 

         All compensation plans previously approved by security holders; and

         All compensation plans not previously approved by security holders.GENERAL

 

Equity Compensation Plan Information

Name

 

Number of securities to

be issued upon exercise

of outstanding options,

warrants and rights

 

 

Weighted-average

exercise price of

outstanding options,

warrants and rights

 

 

Number of securities

remaining available for

future issuance under

equity compensation

plans(excluding

securities in column (a)

 

 

 

(a)

 

 

(b)

 

 

(c)

 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

 

 

2,256,000

 

 

$

0.83

 

 

 

3,322,630

 

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

 

 

317,460

 

 

 

0.01

 

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

2,573,460

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,322,630

 

Item 6.            Selected Financial Data.

Because we areAs a smaller reportingholding company, this section is not applicable.

Item 7.            Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

General

Ourour business strategy is designed to growincrease shareholder value. Under this strategy, we are focused on managing and financially supporting our existing subsidiaries and partner companies, with the Companygoal of pursuing monetization opportunities and maximizing the value returned to shareholders. We have, are and will consider initiatives including, among others: public offerings, the sale of individual partner companies, the sale of certain or all partner company interests in secondary market transactions, or a combination thereof, as well as other opportunities to maximize shareholder value. We anticipate returning value to shareholders after satisfying our debt obligations and working capital needs.

From time to time, we engage in discussions with other companies interested in our subsidiaries or partner companies, either in response to inquiries or as part of a process we initiate. To the extent we believe that a subsidiary partner company’s further growth and development can best be supported by making strategic acquisitions. a different ownership structure or if we otherwise believe it is in our shareholders’ best interests, we will seek to sell some or all of our position in the subsidiary or partner company. These sales may take the form of privately negotiated sales of stock or assets, mergers and acquisitions, public offerings of the subsidiary or partner company’s securities and, in the case of publicly traded partner companies, sales of their securities in the open market. Our plans may include taking subsidiaries or partner companies public through rights offerings and directed share subscription programs. We will continue to consider these (or similar) programs and the sale of certain subsidiary or partner company interests in secondary market transactions to maximize value for our shareholders.

Over the recent past we have provided capital and relevant expertise to fuel the growth of businesses in defense/aerospace, industrial, telecommunications, medical, crypto-mining, textiles and a select portfolio of commercial hospitality properties. We have provided capital to subsidiaries as well as partner companies in which we have an equity interest or may be actively involved, influencing development through board representation and management support.

We are a solution-driven organization that designs, develops, manufacturesDelaware corporation with our corporate office located at 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141. Our phone number is 949-444-5464 and markets high-grade, customized and flexible power solutions for demanding applications in the medical, military, telecom, and industrial markets. Our products serve global markets worldwide. Revenues are generated from selling products to our customers directly by our sales force and through manufacturing representatives and distributors. The forgoing discussions may not be indicative of our future.website address is www.aultglobal.com.

 

Our net loss was $1,122,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to a net loss of $1,096,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015. Our net loss for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes expenses that related to our growth plan and approximately $543,000 of stock compensation expense. During 2016 our cash decreased by $245,000.

To fulfill our business plan and strategy, we will actively seek additional capital to finance our operations for the next 12 months.


Foreign Currency Fluctuations

Our wholly-owned subsidiary, DPL, operates using the United Kingdom pound sterling. Therefore, we are subject to monetary fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and the United Kingdom pound sterling. The financial statements of the subsidiary which are included in our consolidated financial statements have been translated into U.S. dollars. For the year ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we recorded a foreign currency translation loss of $362,000 and $100,000 as reported in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

Results of Operations

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020 AND 2019

The following table below sets forth certain statementssummarizes the results of our operations data as a percentage of revenues for the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015:2019.

 

  

Years Ended December 31

 
  

2016

  

2015

 
         

Revenues

  100.00

%

  100.00

%

Cost of revenues

  64.38   65.07

%

Gross profit

  35.62   34.93 

Engineering and product development

  9.33   11.51 

Sales and marketing

  12.06   15.39 

General and administrative

  30.29   20.97 

Total Operating expenses

  51.67   47.87 

Operating loss

  (16.06

)

  (12.94

)

Impairment of investment

  -   (1.56

)

Other income, net

  1.01   0.21 

Loss before tax

  (15.05

)

  (14.29

)%

Tax Income (benefit)

  0.26   0.01 

Net loss

  (14.79

)%

  (14.28

)%

  For the Year Ended 
  December 
  2020  2019 
       
Revenue $23,628,859  $21,057,509 
Revenue, cryptocurrency mining  -   641,745 
Revenue, lending activities  242,418   662,740 
Total revenue  23,871,277   22,361,994 
Cost of revenue  16,356,741   19,302,647 
Gross profit  7,514,536   3,059,347 
Total operating expenses  13,548,009   27,757,265 
         
Loss from continuing operations  (6,033,473)  (24,697,918)
Interest income  104,869   3,351,226 
Interest expense  (9,648,820)  (7,261,857)
Change in fair value of marketable equity securities  919,083   (596,242)
Loss on extinguishment of debt  (18,706,488)  (966,134)
Loss on issuance of warrants  -   (1,763,481)
Change in fair value of warrant liability  (48,842)  1,124,953 
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes  (33,413,671)  (30,809,453)
Income tax benefit  23,794   108,293 
Net loss from continuing operations  (33,389,877)  (30,701,160)
Net gain (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes  661,248   (2,244,668)
Net loss  (32,728,629)  (32,945,828)
Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest  -   32,416 
Net loss attributable to Ault Global Holdings  (32,728,629)  (32,913,412)
Preferred dividends  (17,621)  (15,938)
Net loss available to common stockholders $(32,746,250) $(32,929,350)
         
Basic and diluted net loss per common share:        
Continuing operations $(3.48) $(21.41)
Discontinued operations  0.07   (1.57)
Net loss per common share $(3.41) $(22.97)
         
Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted  9,606,493   1,433,464 
         
Comprehensive loss        
Loss available to common stockholders $(32,746,250) $(32,929,350)
Other comprehensive income (loss)        
Foreign currency translation adjustment  481,596   341,774 
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative securities of related party  

3,312,094

   (1,950,875)
Other comprehensive income (loss)  

3,793,690

   (1,609,101)
Total comprehensive loss $(28,952,560) $(34,538,451)

 

59

The following discussion and analysis should be read in connection with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto and other financial information included elsewhere in this Annual Report. We prepared the financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, which requires management to make estimates, and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2015

 

Revenues

 

ForRevenues by segment for the yearyears ended December 31, 2016,2020 and 2019 are as follows:

  For the Year Ended       
  December  Increase    
  2020  2019  (Decrease)  % 
             
GWW $18,212,721  $15,231,843  $2,980,878   20%
Coolisys  5,416,138   5,825,666   (409,528)  -7%
Ault Alliance:                
Revenue, cryptocurrency mining  -   641,745   (641,745)  -100%
Revenue, lending and investing activities  242,418   662,740   (420,322)  -63%
Total revenue $23,871,277  $22,361,994  $1,509,283   7%

Our revenues decreasedincreased by 2.2 %$1,509,283, or 7%, to $7,596,000 from $7,766,000$23,871,277 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The decrease is attributed to a decline in value of military product orders shipped by DPL.

Revenues derived2020, from our defense products$22,361,994 for the year ended December 31, 2016 were $2,289,000, a decrease of 22.8% from2019.

GWW

GWW revenues of $2,964,000 from defense productsincreased by $2,980,878, or 20%, to $18,212,721 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease of sales of major international naval military contracts in 2016. Revenues derived2020, from our commercial products$15,231,843 for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased by 10.5%2019. The increase in revenue from our Gresham Worldwide segment for customized solutions for the military markets reflected the benefit of capital that was allocated to $5,307,000our defense business during the second half of 2019. GWW revenue in 2020 includes $598,500 from $4,802,000Relec, which was acquired on November 30, 2020. Revenue from Enertec, which largely consists of revenue recognized over time, for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase in commercial product revenue in 2016 resulted primarily2020 increased $421,974 or 5% from sales of commercial products by our domestic operation.the prior year.

 


Coolisys

 

Revenues from our domestic operations increasedCoolisys revenues decreased by 18.8%$409,528, or 7%, to $4,552,000$5,416,138 for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, from $3,833,000$5,825,666 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase in revenue is mostly attributable from a rising sales volume of commercial and military products in North America.2019.

Ault Alliance

 

Revenues from our Europeancryptocurrency mining operations (Gresham/DPL)revenues decreased 22.6%by $641,745, or 100% from the year ended December 31, 2019, due to $3,044,000our decision to cease our cryptocurrency mining operations. During the first quarter of 2020, due to deteriorating business conditions in the cryptocurrency mining sector, we ceased operations at Digital Farms. Our decision to cease cryptocurrency mining operations in 2020 was based on several factors, which had negatively affected the number of active miners we operated, including the market prices of digital currencies at the time, power cost considerations available to Digital Farms, and a significant increase in the difficulty of mining blocks of cryptocurrency.

Revenues from our lending and investing activities decreased by $420,322, or 63%, to $242,418 for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $3,933,0002020, from $662,740 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The decrease was primarily attributable2019 attributed to a decrease of military product sales and the impact of a weakening of the British Pound and Euro against the USD.reduction in our loan portfolio.

 

Gross Profit Margins

 

Gross margins were 35.62%increased to 31.5% for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, compared to 34.9%13.7% for the year ended December 31, 2015. The slight increase in2019. Our gross margin of 13.7% recognized during the year ended December 31, 2019, was impacted by the approximate $2.1 million negative margins at Digital Farms and the provision for credit losses of $1,550,000 at DP Lending, compared to no provision for credit losses during the year ended December 31, 2020. Excluding the effects of Digital Farms and credit losses at DP Lending, our adjusted gross margin for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the prior year 2015 was mainly attributable to the increase in profitability of our commercial products sold by our U.S. operations.2019 would have been 31.1%.

 

Engineering and Product Development

 

Engineering and product development expenses were $709,000, or 9.3% of revenues,decreased slightly by $12,237 to $1,848,866 for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to $894,000, or 11.5% of revenues,2020, from $1,861,103 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The overall decrease in our engineering and product development expenses for the comparative year was primarily related to the completion of custom product development efforts for medical and broadband applications, which lowered the amount of outside contracted engineering services incurred by our U.S. operations.2019.

 

Selling and Marketing

 

Selling and marketing expenses were $916,000, or 12.1% of revenues,$1,177,321 for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, compared to $1,195,000, or 15.4% of revenues,$1,409,996 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The2019, a decrease of $232,675. This decrease was the result of decreases in personnel costs directly attributed to a reduction in sales and marketing expenses for the comparative period waspersonnel primarily the result of reduction in sales staff. The decrease in selling and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015 was primarily the result of a temporary decrease in direct manpower cost due to a reduced headcount. In July 2015 the Company hired two senior sales who were dismissed in December 2015.at Coolisys.

 

General and Administrative

 

General and administrative expenses were $2,300,000, or 30.29% of revenues,$12,526,855 for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020 compared to $1,627,000, or 20.9% of revenues,$15,524,180 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase in our general2019, a decrease of $2,997,325. General and administrative expenses fordecreased from the comparative prior period, was mainly due to higherlower legal fees, stock based compensation expensesexpense, other third-party fees and travel related costs, which accounted for a $322,000 increase from 2015decreased during the year ended December 30, 2020 due to 2016, an increase in legal coststravel restrictions related to the Telkoor and Philou Ventures transaction and an increase in investor relationship costs.COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Asset Impairment of investment Charges

 

NoThere were no asset impairment relatedcharges recognized during the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to our investment in Telkoor was recognized$4,315,856 for year ended December 31, 2019. The impairment charges for the year ended December 31, 2016.2019 related to impairments of our cryptocurrency mining equipment.

Impairment loss on goodwill and intangible assets

During the year ended December 31, 2019, we performed a qualitative assessment and concluded that the goodwill at Coolisys was impaired and recorded an impairment of $480,953. Further, during the year ended December 31, 2019, we also recorded an impairment loss of $170,692 related to intangible assets primarily comprised of trade names, customer relationships and a non-competition agreement at Coolisys. For the year ended December 31, 2015, we recognized an $110,0002020, the Company did not record any impairment expense related to our Telkoor investment. On September 22, 2016, we sold our investment in Telkoor back to Telkoorloss.

Provision for $90,000 which was equal tocredit losses

Loans are generally carried at the carrying amount of unpaid principal, adjusted for unearned loan fees and original issue discount, which are amortized over the investment.term of the loan using the effective interest rate method. Interest on loans is accrued based on the principal amounts outstanding. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, we evaluated the collectability of both interest and principal for the convertible promissory notes in AVLP to determine whether there was an impairment. As of December 31, 2019, based on information and events available at that time, primarily the value of the underlying conversion feature and recent economic events, we concluded that an impairment existed and, accordingly, we recorded a $4,000,000 provision for credit losses. As of December 31, 2020, due to an increase in the value of the underlying conversion feature, we reduced the provision by $2,000,000.

 

OtherInterest Income Net

 

OtherInterest income net was $77,000$104,869 for the year ended December 31, 2016 and consisted of foreign currency transaction gains of $110,000 offset by non-cash interest expense resulting from the accretion of discount on our 12% Secured Convertible Note plus contractual interest2020 compared to $16,000$3,351,226 for the year ended December 31, 2015 which consisted only2019. The decrease in interest income for the year ended December 31, 2020 is related to a decrease in interest income pursuant to the AVLP Loan Agreement entered into on September 6, 2017, with AVLP, a related party, as subsequently amended. Due to the impaired status of foreign currency transaction gains.the loan, no interest was recognized during the year ended December 31, 2020.

 


Interest expense

Interest expense was $9,648,820 for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to $7,261,857 for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 is primarily related to an increase of amortization of debt discount resulting from original issue discount from the issuance of warrants in conjunction with the sale of debt instruments. During the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, as a result of these issuances, non-cash interest expense of $7,251,365 and $3,709,993, respectively, was recorded from the amortization of debt discount and debt financing costs.

Loss on issuance of warrants

On March 29, 2019, the Company entered into an underwriting agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) with A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners (the “Underwriter”), pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue and sell an aggregate of (a) 71,388 shares of its common stock (the “Shares”) together with warrants to purchase 71,388 shares of common stock (the “Common Warrants”) and (b) pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 317,500 shares of its common stock (the “Pre-Funded Warrants”) together with a number of Common Warrants to purchase 317,500 shares of common stock (the “Offering”). The Shares were sold to the purchasers at the public offering price of $17.60 per share (the “Offering Price”). The Common Warrants were sold at a public offering price of $0.40 per Common Warrant. The Pre-Funded Warrants were offered to each purchaser whose purchase of the Shares and the Common Warrant in the Offering would otherwise result in the purchaser, together with its affiliates and certain related parties, beneficially owning more than 4.99% (or, at the election of the purchaser, 9.99%) of the Company’s outstanding common stock immediately following the consummation of the Offering. The purchase price of each Pre-Funded Warrant equaled the Offering Price at which the Shares were sold to the public in the Offering, minus $0.40, and the exercise price of each Pre-Funded Warrant equaled $0.40 per share. In addition, the Company has also issued the Underwriter a warrant to purchase a maximum of 15,550 additional shares of common stock at an initial exercise price of $19.80 per share, with a term of five years (the “Underwriter Warrants”).

We recognized a loss on issuance of warrants of $1,763,481 for the year ended December 31, 2019, based upon the fair value of the warrants issued in our March 2019 underwritten public offering of common stock and warrants (the “Offering”) in excess of the proceeds received from the Offering.

Change in fair value of warrant liability

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the fair value of the warrants that were issued in our Offering increased by $48,842 whereas during the year ended December 31, 2019, the fair value of the warrants decreased by $1,124,953. The fair value of these warrants is re-measured at each financial reporting period and immediately before exercise, with any changes in fair value recorded as change in fair value of warrant liability in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss.

Loss on extinguishment of debt

Loss on extinguishment of debt was $18,706,488 for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $966,134 for the year ended December 31, 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2020, principal and accrued interest of $6,411,795 and $2,196,599, respectively, on the Company’s debt securities was satisfied through the issuance of 9,632,219 shares of Common Stock. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of $15,572,326 as a result of these issuances. The remaining loss on extinguishment is primarily due to the estimated fair value of warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,700,361 shares of common stock that were issued to Esousa pursuant to the Master Exchange Agreement.

Net gain (loss) from discontinued operations

As a result of temporary closures of restaurants in San Diego County and the deteriorating business conditions at the Company’s restaurant businesses, during the first quarter of 2020, the Company concluded that discontinuing the operations of I.AM was ultimately in its best interest. Management determined that the permanent closing of the restaurant operations met the criteria for presentation as discontinued operations. Accordingly, the results of the restaurant operations are presented as discontinued operations in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss and are excluded from continuing operations for all periods presented. Additionally, on November 2, 2020, I.AM filed a voluntary petition for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 in the United States Bankruptcy Court in the Central District of California, Santa Ana Division, case number 8:20-bk-13076. As a result of I.AM’s bankruptcy filing on November 2, 2020, Ault Global ceded authority for managing the business to the Bankruptcy Court. For this reason, we concluded that Ault Global had lost control of I.AM, and no longer had significant influence over I.AM. Therefore, we deconsolidated I.AM effective with the filing of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2020 and recorded a gain on deconsolidation of 2,358,992.

 

Net Loss

 

For the foregoing reasons, our net loss for the year ended December 31, 2016, we had a net loss of $1,122,0002020, was $32,728,629 compared to a net loss of $1,096,000$32,945,828 for the year ended December 31, 2015.2019. After taking into consideration the loss attributable to the non-controlling interest of the minority shareholders of Microphase during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, of $0 and $32,416, respectively, and preferred dividends of $17,621 and $15,938, respectively, the net loss available to common shareholders during the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, was $32,746,250 and $32,929,350, respectively.

 

As reflected in our consolidated statement of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, our reported net loss includes a significant number of non-cash charges of $29,325,236 and $11,435,682, respectively. A summary of these non-cash charges is as follows:

  For the Year Ended 
  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Loss on extinguishment of debt $18,706,488  $- 
Interest expense – debt discount  7,251,365   3,709,993 
Stock-based compensation  1,105,688   1,583,991 
Depreciation and amortization  727,373   3,465,091 
Impairment of property and equipment  1,525,316   4,315,856 
Accretion of original issue discount on notes receivable – related party  21,998   (2,277,777)
Accretion of original issue discount on notes receivable  (61,834)  - 
Fair value in excess of proceeds upon issuance of warrants  -   1,763,481 
Change in fair value of warrant liability  48,842   (1,124,953)
Non-cash items included in net loss $

29,352,236

  $11,435,682 

Othercomprehensive income (loss)loss

 

Other comprehensive loss was $362,000$28,952,560 and $100,000,$34,538,451, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015. The significant other2019. Other comprehensive lossincome for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, which decreasedincreased our equity, reflects the impact of the weakening of the British Pound on the equity of our UK-based subsidiary DPL following the referendumwas primarily due to unrealized gains in the UK on membership in the European Union.

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptionswarrant derivative securities that affect the reported assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Critical accounting policies are those that require the most subjective and complex judgments, often employing the use of estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. The following are considered our most critical accounting policies that, under different conditions or using different assumption or estimates, could show materially different results on our financial condition and results of operations.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue from product sales is recognized in accordance with the provisions of ASC 605-15, "Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements", when the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred (when risk of loss and title have transferred to the customer), the sale price is fixed or determinable and collection is reasonably assured.

We generally use customer purchase orders and contracts to determine the existence of an arrangement. Shipping documents and customer acceptance, when applicable, are used to verify delivery. We assess whether the sales price is fixed or determinable based on the payment terms associated with the transaction and whether the price is subject to refund or adjustment. We assess collectability based primarily on the creditworthiness of the customer as determined by credit checks and analysis, as well as the customer’s payment history.

Revenue on shipments to distributors and resellers is recognized on delivery. Generally, we do not grant a right of return. However, certain distributors are allowed, in the sixth month after the initial stock purchase, to rotate stock that has not been sold for other products. Revenues subject to stock rotation rights are deferred until the products are sold to the end customer or until the rotation rights expire.

Inventory Obsolescence Accruals

We periodically assess our inventory valuation by reviewing revenue forecasts and technological obsolescence. We write down the value of obsolete or unmarketable inventory to the estimated net realizable value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory write-downs would be necessary.

During 2016 and 2015, we recorded inventory write-down of $84,000 and $9,000, respectively.


Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Our accounts receivable are derived from sales to customers located primarily in the U.S. and Europe. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and currently require no collateral from our customers. An allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses is maintained in anticipation of the inability of customers to make required payments. The allowance for doubtful accounts as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $32,000 and $0, respectively. When we become aware that a specific customer is unable to meet its financial obligationsreceived as a result of bankruptcy or the deterioration of the customer’s operating results or financial position, for example, we record a specific allowance to reflect the level of credit risk in the customer’s outstanding receivable balance.  We are not able to predict changes in the financial condition of customers, and if the condition or circumstances of our customers deteriorates, estimates of the recoverability of trade receivables could be materially affected and we may be required to record additional allowances.  Alternatively, if our estimates are determined to be greater than the actual amounts necessary, we may decrease a portion of such allowance in future periods based on actual collection experience.

Marketable Securities 

We classify our investment in shares of common stock of Telkoor and Avalanche International, Corp. (“Avalanche”), or AVLP, a related party, and from fluctuations in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 320, "Investment in Debtexchange rates between the U.S. dollar and Equity Securities" (ASC No. 320”) and ASC 325, “Investment – Other” (“ASC No. 325’). Marketable securities classified as “available for sale securities” are carried at fair value, based on quoted market prices. Unrealized gains and losses are reported in a separate component of shareholder’s equity in "accumulated other comprehensive loss" in equity. When evaluating the investment for other-than-temporary impairment, we review factors such as the length of time and extent to which fair value has been below cost basis, the financial condition of the issuer and any changes thereto, and our intent to sell, or whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the investment before recovery of the investment's amortized cost basis.

Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values (i.e., non-marketable equity securities) and are not required to be accounted for under the equity method are typically carried at cost (i.e., cost method investments), as described in ASC 325-20.

We did not record any impairment of our investments in Telkoor or Avalanche duringIsraeli Shekel. During the year ended December 31, 2016. For the year ended December 31, 2015, we recognized an impairment of our investment in Telkoor2019, unrealized losses in the amountwarrant derivative securities of $110,000. On September 22, 1016, we sold our shares in Telkoor back to Telkoor for $90,000 which represented our book value.AVLP was the primary component of other comprehensive loss.

 

Equity-based Compensation Expense

We account for equity-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718, “Compensation – Stock compensation” ("ASC 718"). Under the fair value recognition provisions of this statement, share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized as an expense over the requisite service periods. Determining the fair value of share-based awards at the grant date requires the exercise of judgment, including the amount of share-based awards that are expected to be forfeited. Estimated forfeitures are based on historical pre-vesting forfeitures. If actual results differ from these estimates, equity-based compensation expense, and therefore our results of operations, could be impacted.

We estimate the fair value of stock options granted under ASC 718, using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which uses the following assumption:

Expected volatility is based on historical volatility, which is representative of future volatility over the expected term of the options. The expected term of options granted was determined based on the simplified method, which is calculated as the midpoint between the vesting date and the end of the contractual term of the option. The risk free interest rate is based on the yield of U.S. Treasury bonds with equivalent terms. The dividend yield is based on our historical and future expectation of dividends payouts. We have not paid cash dividends historically and have no plans to pay cash dividends in the foreseeable future.

Convertible Instruments

The Company accounts for hybrid contracts that feature conversion options in accordance with applicable GAAP. ASC 815 “Derivatives and Hedging Activities,” (“ASC 815”) requires companies to bifurcate conversion options from their host instruments and account for them as freestanding derivative financial instruments according to certain criteria. The criteria includes circumstances in which (a) the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative instrument are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract, (b) the hybrid instrument that embodies both the embedded derivative instrument and the host contract is not re-measured at fair value under other applicable GAAP with changes in fair value reported in earnings as they occur and (c) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative instrument would be considered a derivative instrument.


Conversion options that contain variable settlement features such as provisions to adjust the conversion price upon subsequent issuances of equity or equity linked securities at exercise prices more favorable than that featured in the hybrid contract generally result in their bifurcation from the host instrument.

The Company accounts for convertible instruments, when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should not be bifurcated from their host instruments, in accordance with ASC 470-20 “Debt with Conversion and Other Options” (“ASC 470-20”). Under ASC 470-20 the Company records, when necessary, discounts to convertible notes for the intrinsic value of conversion options embedded in debt instruments based upon the differences between the fair value of the underlying common stock at the commitment date of the note transaction and the effective conversion price embedded in the note. The Company accounts for convertible instruments (when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should be bifurcated from their host instruments) in accordance with ASC 815. Under ASC 815, a portion of the proceeds received upon the issuance of the hybrid contract are allocated to the fair value of the derivative. The derivative is subsequently marked to market at each reporting date based on current fair value, with the changes in fair value reported in results of operations.

Common Stock Warrants

The Company classifies as equity any warrants that (i) require physical settlement or net-share settlement or (ii) provide the Company with a choice of net-cash settlement or settlement in its own shares (physical settlement or net-share settlement). The Company classifies as assets or liabilities any warrants that (i) require net-cash settlement (including a requirement to net cash settle the contract if an event occurs and if that event is outside the Company’s control), (ii) gives the counterparty a choice of net-cash settlement or settlement in shares (physical settlement or net-share settlement) or (iii) that contain reset provisions that do not qualify for the scope exception. The Company assesses classification of its common stock warrants and other freestanding derivatives at each reporting date to determine whether a change in classification between assets and liabilities is required. The Company’s freestanding derivatives consist of warrants to purchase common stock that were issued in connection with its (i) convertible notes, (ii) equity funding, and (iii) officer of the Company for the services. The Company evaluated these warrants to assess their proper classification and determined that the common stock warrants meet the criteria for equity or liability classification in the balance sheet. The warrants classified as liability are initially recorded at fair value, with gains and losses arising from changes in fair value recognized in other income (expense) in the statements of operations at each period end while such instruments remain outstanding

Liquidity and Capital ResourcesLIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

On December 31, 2016,2020, we had cash and cash equivalents of $996,000 and working capital of $1,963,000.$18,679,848. This compares with cash and cash equivalents of $1,241,000 and working capital of $2,659,000$483,383 at December 31, 2015.2019. The decreaseincrease in cash and cash equivalents was primarily due mainly to operational lossescash provided by financing activities with the remaining variance attributed to fluctuations in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and our investment in Avalanche International in the form convertible notes in the aggregate amount of $1,036,000.Israeli Shekel.

 

Net cash used in continuing operating activities totaled $358,000 and $529,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The decrease in net cash used in operating activities$11,182,225 for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, compared to $10,262,733 for the year ended December 31, 2019. The most significant change was principally due to a decrease in ourcash provided from payments on accounts receivable, related party. During April 2019, we received a payment $2,676,219 and no such payments were received during the year ended December 30, 2020. Cash flow from operating loss.activities during the year ended December 31, 2020 benefited from improved operating results compared to the prior year period, including improved gross margins from ceasing the negative margin cryptocurrency mining operations and lower general and administrative expenses from lower third-party fees and travel related costs.

 

Net cash used in investing activities was $1,029,000$7,783,215 for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, compared to net cash used in investing activities of $306,000$2,851,055 for the year ended December 31, 2015.2019. The increase of the net usage of cash from investing activities was primarily attributed to $3,627,534 cash used for the acquisition of Relec, net of cash acquired, $2,118,411 related party investments in AVLP and Alzamend, and $1,425,341 related to the investment in Avalanche.purchase of marketable equity securities.


 

Net cash provided by financing activities was $1,279,000$37,283,639 and $0$12,925,203 for the year ended December 31, 20162020 and 2019, respectively. Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively. The increase in financing activities2020, primarily related to net proceeds from the sale of a $530,000 convertible note for net proceeds of $488,000, a term loan of $250,000 and the sale of $541,000 in units consisting of shares of Common stock and warrants to purchase Common Stock.

Subsequent to year end through April 5, 2017, we sold 1,526,667 shares of common stock at $0.60through our at-the-market offerings, net proceeds from our debt financings, partially offset by net payments related to $0.75 per share raising, inadvances on future receipts. Net cash provided by financing activities for the aggregate, $970,000 before expenses. In addition, we sold 25,000year ended December 31, 2019, primarily related to net proceeds from the sale of shares of Series B Preferred Stock at $10.00 per share in exchange for the cancellation ofcommon stock through our at-the-market offering, partially offset by net payments related to our debt of $250,000.financings and advances on future receipts.

 

We expect to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future and will be required to raise additional capital to continue to support our working capital requirements. We believe that the MLSE purchase order contract of $50 million by MTIX will contribute to generate meaningful revenue and corresponding cash in 2017. In addition,Historically, we have been successful over the last 12 monthsfinanced our operations principally through issuances of convertible debt, promissory notes and equity securities. During 2020, as reflected below, we continued to successfully obtain additional equity and debt financing and in raising capital to support our working capital requirements. We will anticipate that we will continue to raise capital through public and private equity offerings, debt financings, or other means.   If we are unable to secure additional capital, we may be required to curtail our current operations and take additional measures to reduce costs expenses, including reducing our workforce, eliminating outside consultants, ceasing or reducing review of potential acquisitions and reducing legal fees in order to conserve cash in order to sustain operations and meet our obligations.restructuring existing debt.

·On February 10, 2020, we entered into a Master Exchange Agreement with Esousa, which acquired approximately $4.2 million dollars in principal amount from previous noteholders, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of certain promissory notes that had been previously issued by us. Esousa also agreed to purchase additional notes and during the three months ended September 30, 2020, Esousa acquired $2,240,015 in principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of certain additional promissory notes that had been previously issued by us (collectively, the “Notes”). Pursuant to the Master Exchange Agreement, Esousa has the unilateral right to acquire shares of the Company’s common stock in exchange for the Notes.

 

Based

·Between August 2020 and September 2020, the Company received $2,850,000 in loans from Esousa pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue unsecured short-term promissory notes with interest rates of 13% and 14%. Pursuant to these loans, and an additional loan of $350,000 received during October 2020, we issued two unsecured promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $1,200,000 with an interest rate of 14% and issued a promissory note in the principal face amount of $2,000,000 with an interest rate of 13%.

·On October 2, 2020, the Company entered into an At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “2020 Sales Agreement”) with Ascendiant Capital Markets, LLC to sell shares of its common stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $8,975,000 from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “2020 ATM Offering”). On December 1, 2020, the Company filed an amendment to the prospectus supplement with the SEC to increase the amount of common stock that may be offered and sold in the 2020 ATM Offering, as amended under the Sales Agreement to $40,000,000 in the aggregate, inclusive of the up to $8,975,000 in shares of common stock previously sold in the 2020 ATM Offering. The offer and sale of shares of common stock from the 2020 ATM Offering was made pursuant to our effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) which became effective on January 11, 2018. Through December 31, 2020, the Company had received gross proceeds of $39,978,350 through the sale of 12,582,000 shares of common stock from the 2020 ATM Offering. The 2020 ATM Offering was terminated on December 31, 2020.

·On January 22, 2021, the Company entered into an At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “2021 Sales Agreement”), with Ascendiant Capital Markets, LLC, or the sales agent, relating to the sale of shares of Common Stock offered by a prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, as amended by the amendment to the 2021 Sales Agreement dated February 16, 2021, or the amended sales agreement. In accordance with the terms of the amended sales agreement, the Company may offer and sell shares of Common Stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $125,000,000 from time to time through the sales agent. As of February 22, 2021, the Company had sold an aggregate of 21,561,900 shares of its common stock pursuant to the sales agreement for gross proceeds of $124,983,305.

The Company believes its current cash on the above, we believe that we will havehand is sufficient to meet its operating and capital resources to sustain operations throughrequirements for at least the next twelve months from the date the financial statements for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 are issued.

Critical Accounting Policies

Fair value of this filing.Financial Instruments

In accordance with ASC No. 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received for the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date.

The guidance also establishes a three-tier hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs include those that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability and are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about the factors that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability.

We assess the inputs used to measure fair value using the three-tier hierarchy based on the extent to which inputs used in measuring fair value are observable in the market.

The Company’s investments in AVLP, a related party controlled by Philou, an affiliate of the Company, consist of convertible promissory notes, derivative instruments and shares of AVLP common stock. As of December 31, 2020, the Company has provided loans to AVLP in the principal amount $11,269,136 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase 22,537,871 shares of AVLP common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of five years. Management used both a market and income approach to quantify the carrying amount of the convertible notes, including credit risk. The market approach considered the fair value of AVLP’s common stock adjusted for a lack of marketability discount and the time value of money based on expectation as to the timing of a potential liquidity event which could affect the timing of a settlement of the convertible notes. The income approach was primarily based on a discounted cash flow analysis with assumptions regarding forecasted revenues, operating margins and a risk-adjusted discount rate to compute the net present value of such cash flows.

In determining the revenue and expense assumptions that were used in the discounted cash flow analysis, the Company considered the disruptive nature of AVLP’s Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“MLSE”) plasma-laser system, the size of the market for the treatment of textiles, customer demand, existing treatment methods, the performance capabilities of the MLSE system and the risk of business execution and the adoption of AVLP’s disruptive technology.

 

Item

ITEM 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Because we are a smaller reporting company, this section is not applicableapplicable.

 

Item

ITEM 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

  

The financial statements required by this Item 8 are included in this Annual Report following Item 1516 hereof. As a smaller reporting company, we are not required to provide supplementary financial information.

 

Item

ITEM 9.

Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

 

On December 29, 2016, we dismissed Kost Forer Gabbay and Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global (“Kost Forer”) as our independent registered public accounting firm. Our Audit Committee approved the dismissal of Kost Forer. Kost Forer’s report on our consolidated financial statements as of and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015 did not contain any adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion, nor were they qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principle.Not applicable

 

During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015 and through December 29, 2016, there were (i) no disagreements with Kost Forer on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to Kost Forer’s satisfaction, would have caused Kost Forer to make reference thereon in their report on the financial statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, and (ii) no “reportable events” as that term is defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.

ITEM 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

On January 13, 2017, we, as approved by the Audit Committee, appointed Marcum LLP (“Marcum”) as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016. During our two most recent fiscal years (fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015) and during the subsequent interim period through January 13, 2017, neither we nor anyone acting on our behalf consulted with Marcum regarding (i) the application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, either completed or proposed; or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on our financial statements, and neither a written report nor oral advice was provided to us that Marcum concluded was an important factor considered by us in reaching a decision as to the accounting, auditing or financial reporting issue; or (ii) any matter that was either the subject of a disagreement (as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(iv) of Regulation S-K and the related instructions) or a reportable event (as described in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K).


Item 9A.          Controls and Procedures.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

As of December 31, 2016,2020, we have carried out an evaluation, under the supervision of, and with the participation of, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”Exchange Act). Based upon that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that ourWe have established disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) were effective as of the end of the period covered by the reportdesigned to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC'sin SEC rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Based upon that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, with the assistance of other members of the Company's management, have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation 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 appropriate,of the end of the period covered by this annual report and has determined that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective due to allow timely decisions regarding required financial disclosure.the material weakness as described herein.

 

Management’sManagement’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act). Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016.2020. In making this assessment, our management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated 2013 Framework. The 2013 Framework is expected to help organizations design and implement internal control in light of many changes in business and operating environments since the issuance of the original framework, broaden the application of internal control in addressing operation and reporting objectives, and clarify the requirements for determining what constitutes effective internal controls. Our management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2016,2020, our internal control over financial reporting was not effective.

A material weakness is a control deficiency (within the meaning of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Auditing Standard No. 2) or combination of control deficiencies that result in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected. Management has identified the following material weakness:

1.

We do not have sufficient resources in our accounting function, which restricts our ability to gather, analyze and properly review information related to financial reporting, including applying complex accounting principles relating to consolidation accounting and fair value estimates, in a timely manner. In addition, due to our size and nature, segregation of all conflicting duties may not always be possible and may not be economically feasible. However, to the extent possible, the initiation of transactions, the custody of assets and the recording of transactions should be performed by separate individuals. Management evaluated the impact of our failure to have segregation of duties during our assessment of our disclosure controls and procedures and concluded that the control deficiency that resulted represented a material weakness.

Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has assessed whether any changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2020 have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Significant changes were implemented and tested during the latter half of fiscal 2020 through the date of this report to remediate our material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting. Management believes that such measures we have implemented to remediate the material weaknesses in our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting have had a favorable impact on our internal control over financial reporting. Changes in our internal control over financial reporting through the date of this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting are described below.

Material Weaknesses Remediated at December 31, 2020:

1.Control activities related to the timely communication of information necessary to properly record transactions. We did not have adequate controls to ensure that information necessary to properly record transactions was adequately communicated on a timely basis from non-financial personnel to those responsible for financial reporting.

2.Control activities related to general information technology (“IT”) controls over certain information systems that are relevant to the mitigation of the risk pertaining to the misappropriation of assets. Specifically, we the design and implement program change management controls for certain financially relevant systems to ensure that IT program and data changes affecting the Company’s (i) financial IT applications, (ii) digital currency mining equipment, (iii) digital currency hardware wallets, and (iv) underlying accounting records, are identified, tested, authorized and implemented appropriately.

Planned Remediation

Management, in coordination with the input, oversight and support of our Audit Committee, has identified the measures below to strengthen our control environment and internal control over financial reporting.

On August 19, 2020, Mr. Horne resigned as our Chief Financial Officer and was appointed our President, and later became our Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Cragun, who had served as the Company’s Chief Accounting Officer since October 1, 2018, succeeded Mr. Horne as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company. In January 2018, we engaged the services of a financial accounting advisory firm. In January 2019, we hired a Senior Vice President of Finance. In May 2019, we hired an Executive Vice President and General Counsel, who later became our President and General Counsel. Finally, in January 2021, we hired a Director of Reporting. These individuals were tasked with expanding and monitoring the Company’s internal controls, to provide an additional level of review of complex financial issues and to assist with financial reporting. On October 7, 2019, we created an Executive Committee which is currently comprised of our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. The Executive Committee meets on a daily basis to address the Company’s critical needs and provides a forum to approve transactions which are communicated to the Company’s Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of Finance on a bi-weekly basis by our Chief Executive Officer, who also reviews all of the Company’s material transactions and reviews the financial performance of each of our subsidiaries. On December 16, 2020, in consultation with the Chairman of the Audit Committee, we engaged a professional services firm to review management’s assessment of compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and to identify internal control process improvement opportunities. These changes have improved and simplified our internal processes and resulted in enhanced controls. While these changes have improved and simplified our internal processes and resulted in enhanced controls, these enhancements have not been operating for a sufficient period of time for management to conclude, through testing, that these controls are operating effectively. Further, as we continue to expand our internal accounting department, the Chairman of the Audit Committee shall perform the following:

·assists with documentation and implementation of policies and procedures and monitoring of controls, and

·reviews all anticipated transactions that are not considered in the ordinary course of business to assist in the early identification of accounting issues and ensure that appropriate disclosures are made in the Company’s financial statements.

We are currently working to improve and simplify our internal processes and implement enhanced controls, as discussed above, to address the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and to remedy the ineffectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. These material weaknesses will not be considered to be remediated until the applicable remediated controls are operating for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing, that these controls are operating effectively.

 

This Annual Report does not include an attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’sManagement’s report was not subject to attestation by our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to a provision under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act which grants a permanent exemption for non-accelerated filers from complying with Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 


Evaluation of Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

ThereDuring the most recent fiscal quarter 2018 there were no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in RuleRules 13a-15(f) underand 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended December 31, 2016 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 9B.          Other Information.

ITEM 9B.OTHER INFORMATION.

 

None

 

PART III

 

Item 10.           Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

 

The following table sets forth the positions and offices presently held by each of our current directors and executive officers and their ages:

 

Name

Age

Position Held

Milton C. Ault, III(1)

47

Executive Chairman of the Board

Amos Kohn

57

President, Chief Executive Officer, Director

Kristine Ault (2)

47

Director

William B. Horne (2) (4)

49

Director

Robert O. Smith (3) (4)

73

Director

Moti Rosenberg (4)

68

Director

Uri Friedlander

54

Vice President of Finance, Chief Accounting Officer

   Served as a
  Position and OfficesDirector and
NameAgeHeld with the CompanyOfficer Since
Milton C. Ault, III (1)51Executive Chairman of the Board2017
William B. Horne (1) 52Chief Executive Officer, Vice Chairman and Director2016
Henry Nisser (1)(2)52President, General Counsel and Director2019
Kenneth S. Cragun (1)(3)60Chief Financial Officer2020
Robert O. Smith 76Lead Independent Director2016
Moti Rosenberg73Director2015
Jeffrey A. Bentz61Director2018
Jodi Brichan52Director2019
Howard Ash (4)61Director2020

 

(1)

Effective March 16, 2017, (1)

Executive Officer.
(2)Mr. AultNisser was appointed to the Board.

our Board of Directors on September 17, 2020.

(2)

On October 13, 2016, Kristine Ault and William B. Horne were(3)

Mr. Cragun was appointed to the Board. Pursuant to a securities purchase agreement dated September 5, 2016 by and among the Company, Philou Ventures, and Telkoor, Philou Ventures has the right to appoint two members to the Board of Directors.

as our Chief Financial Officer on August 20, 2020.

(3)

On September 22, 2016, (4)

Mr. Robert O. SmithAsh was appointed to the board

(4)

Independent Director and Memberour Board of the Audit, Compensation and Nominating and Governance Committees.

Directors on August 13, 2020.

 

Each of the directors named above will serve until the next annual meeting of our shareholdersstockholders or until his respective successor is elected and qualified. Subject to the terms of applicable employment agreements, our executive officers serve at the discretion of our Board.

 

Mr. Milton “Todd”C. Ault, III

 

On January 19, 2021, Mr. Ault resigned as Chief Executive Officer and was appointed as the Executive Chairman of the board of directors. On December 28, 2017, Mr. Ault was appointed Chief Executive Officer. On March 16, 2017, Mr. Ault age 47, was appointed Executive Chairman of the Board.board of directors. Mr. Ault entered into an employment agreement with us on June 17, 2018. Mr. Ault is a seasoned business professional and entrepreneur thatwho has spent more than twenty-seven years identifying value in various financial markets including equities, fixed income, commodities, and real estate. On February 25, 2016, Mr. Ault founded on February 25, 2016 Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’sAlzheimer’s Disease and has served as its Chairman ever since. Mr. Ault has served as Chairman of Ault & Company, Inc., a Delaware holding company, since December 2015, and as Chairman of Avalanche International CorpCorp., a publicly traded Nevada company and a “voluntary filer,” which as such is not required to file periodic reports, since September 2014, a company whose shares are registered under the Exchange Act.2014. Since January 2011, Mr. Ault has been the Vice President of Business Development for MCKEA Holdings, LLC, a family office. Through this position,Throughout his career, Mr. Ault has consulted for a few publicly traded and privately held companies, providing each of them the benefit of his diversified experience, that range from development stage to seasoned businesses. He was the President, Chief Executive Officer, Director and Chairman of the Board of Zealous, Inc. from August 2007 until June 4, 2010 and again from February 2011 through May 1, 2011. Mr. Ault was a registered representative at Strome Securities, LP, from July 1998 until December 2005, where he was involved in portfolio management and worked on several activism campaigns including Taco Cabana, Jack In The Box (formerly Foodmaker), and 21st Century Holdings Co. Mr. Ault became majority shareholder of Franklin Capital Corp and was elected to its board of directors in July 2004 and became its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in October 2004 serving until January 2006, and again from July 2006 to January 2007. In April 2005, the company changed its name to Patient Safety Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:PSTX, OTCQB:PSTX) (“PST”) and purchased SurgiCount Medical, Inc. Stryker Corporation (NYSE:SYK) acquired PST at the beginning of 2014 in a deal valued at approximately one hundred twenty million dollars ($120,000,000). PST’s wholly owned operating subsidiary, SurgiCount Medical, Inc., is the company that developed the SafetySponge® System; a bar coding technology for inventory control that aims to detect and prevent the incidence of foreign objects left in the body after surgery. We believe that Mr. Ault’s business background demonstrates he has the qualifications to serve as one of our directors and as Executive Chairman.


Amos Kohn

 

Amos Kohn, 57, has served as a member of our board of directors since 2003, as our President and Chief Executive Officer since 2008. From March 2011 until August 2013 Mr. Kohn also served as interim Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Kohn has more than 20 years of successful global executive management experience, including multiple C-level roles across private and established, publicly-traded companies. Mr. Kohn has successfully managed cross-functional teams, driven corporations to high profitability, built customer loyalty and led businesses through expansion and sustained growth. His areas of expertise include operations, technology innovation, manufacturing, strategic analysis and planning and M&A. Mr. Kohn was Vice President of Business Development at Scopus Video Networks, Inc., a Princeton, New Jersey company that develops and markets digital video networking products (2006-2007); Vice President of Solutions Engineering at ICTV Inc., a leading provider of network-based streaming media technology solutions for digital video and web-driven programming, located in Los Gatos, California (2003-2006); Chief Architect at Liberate Technologies, a leading company in the development of a full range of digital media processing for telecom and cable TV industries, located in San Carlos, California (2000-2003); and Executive Vice President of Engineering and Technology at Golden Channel & Co., the largest cable television multiple-systems operator (MSO) in Israel, where he had executive responsibility for developing and implementing the entire nationwide cable TV system (1989-2000). Mr. Kohn holds a degree in electrical and electronics engineering and is named as an inventor on several United States and international patents. We believe that Mr. Kohn’s extensive executive-level management experience in diversified industries, including, but not limited to, power electronics, telecommunications, cable television, broadcast and wireless, as well as his service as a director on our board since 2003, give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.William B. Horne

 

Kristine Ault

Kristine Ault, age 47, serves as one of our directors. She is a seasoned business woman who has served as the managing member of a private holding company that make equity investments in other operating businesses since 2011 andMr. Horne has served as a member of our board of directors since October 2016. Prior to that, she worked in the finance department of Strome Securities, L.P. in Santa Monica, California. Ms. AultOn January 19, 2021, Mr. Horne resigned as President and was appointed as Trustee for a private trust in 1997the Chief Executive Officer. On August 19, 2020, Mr. Horne resigned as our Chief Financial Officer and currently administers four private trusts. Her work experience ranges from ABC Cable Networkswas appointed as our President. He was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer on January 25, 2018. Prior to the vineyards of Sonoma and Napa Valley. Ms. Ault holds a B.A. degree in Radio-Television-Film and minor in Business Administration from California State University Northridge. She also received an A.A in Natural Sciences and Mathematics from Napa Valley College. We believe that Ms. Ault's experiences, attributes and abilities in business administration and accounting with equity investments give her the qualifications and skill set to servehis appointment as one of our directors.


William B.Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Horne

William B. Horne, age 49, serves served as one of our independent directors. He has served as the Chief Financial Officer of Targeted Medical Pharma, Inc. (OTCBB: TRGM) sincefrom August 2013 and has served as a member of our board of directors since October 2016.to May 2019. Mr. Horne is a director of and chief financial officer toChief Financial Officer of Avalanche International, Co.Corp., a company whose shares of common stock are registered“voluntary filer” under the Exchange Act. Mr. Horne has served on the board of directors of Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, since June 1, 2016. Mr. Horne previously held the position of Chief Financial Officer in various public and private companies in the healthcare and high-tech field, including OptimisCorp, from January 2008 to May 2013, a privately held, diversified healthcare technology company located in Los Angeles, California.field. Mr. Horne served as the Chief Financial Officer of Patient Safety Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: PSTX), a medical device company located in Irvine, California, from June 2005 to October 2008 and as the interim Chief Executive Officer from January 2007 to April 2008. In his dual role at Patient Safety Technologies, Mr. Horne was directly responsible for structuring the divestiture of non-core assets, capital financings and debt restructuring. Mr. Horne held the position of Managing Member & Chief Financial Officer of Alaska Wireless Communications, LLC, a privately held, advanced cellular communications company, from its inception in May 2002 until November 2007. Mr. Horne was responsible for negotiating the sale of Alaska Wireless to General Communication Inc. (NASDAQ: GNCMA). From November 1996 to December 2001, Mr. Horne held the position of Chief Financial Officer of The Phoenix Partners, a venture capital limited partnership located in Seattle, Washington. Mr. Horne has also held supervisory positions at Price Waterhouse, LLP and has a Bachelor of Arts Magna Cum Laude in Accounting from Seattle University. We believe that Mr. Horne's extensive financial and accounting experience in diversified industries and with companies involving complex transactions give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

Henry Nisser

Mr. Nisser has served as a member of our board of directors since September 17, 2020 and was appointed as our Executive Vice President and General counsel on May 1, 2019. On January 19, 2021, Mr. Nisser resigned as Executive Vice President and was appointed as the President. Mr. Nisser is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Avalanche International, Corp., a “voluntary filer” under the Exchange Act. Mr. Nisser has served on the board of directors of Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a biotechnology firm dedicated to finding the treatment, prevention and cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, since September 1, 2020 and has served as its Executive Vice President and General Counsel since May 1, 2019. From October 31, 2011 through April 26, 2019, Mr. Nisser was an associate and subsequently a partner with Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP (“SRF”), a law firm based in New York City. While with SRF, his practice was concentrated in national and international corporate law, with a particular focus on U.S. securities compliance, public as well as private M&A, equity and debt financings and corporate governance. Mr. Nisser drafted and negotiated a variety of agreements related to reorganizations, share and asset purchases, indentures, public and private offerings, tender offers and going private transactions. Mr. Nisser also represented clients’ special committees established to evaluate M&A transactions and advised such committees’ members with respect to their fiduciary duties. Mr. Nisser is fluent in French and Swedish as well as conversant in Italian. Mr. Nisser received his B.A. from Connecticut College in 1992, where he majored in International Relations and Economics. He received his LLB from the University of Buckingham School of Law in 1999. We believe that Mr. Nisser’s extensive legal experience involving complex transactions and comprehensive knowledge of securities laws and corporate governance requirements applicable to listed companies give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

Kenneth S. Cragun

Mr. Cragun was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer on August 19, 2020. Prior to his appointment as Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Cragun served as our Chief Accounting Officer since October 1, 2018. Mr. Cragun has been the Chief Financial Officer of Alzamend Neuro, Inc., a development stage entity seeking to prevent, treat and cure Alzheimer’s Disease, since October of 2018. He served as a CFO Partner at Hardesty, LLC, a national executive services firm since October 2016. His assignments at Hardesty included serving as CFO of CorVel Corporation, a $1.1 billion market cap publicly traded company (NASDAQ: CRVL) and a nationwide leader in technology driven, healthcare-related, risk management programs and of RISA Tech, Inc. a private structural design and optimization software company. Mr. Cragun was also CFO of two NASDAQ-listed companies, Local Corporation, from April 2009 to September 2016, which operated Local.com, a U.S. top 100 website, and Modtech Holdings, Inc., from June 2006 to March 2009, a supplier of modular buildings. Prior thereto, he had financial leadership roles with increasing responsibilities at MIVA, Inc., ImproveNet, Inc., NetCharge Inc., C-Cube Microsystems, Inc, and 3-Com Corporation. Mr. Cragun serves on the Board of Directors and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Verb Technology Company, Inc. (NASDAQ: VERB). Mr. Cragun began his professional career at Deloitte. Mr. Cragun holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Colorado State University-Pueblo. Mr. Cragun’s industry experience is vast, with extensive experience in fast-growth environments and building teams in more than 20 countries. Mr. Cragun has led multiple financing transactions, including IPOs, PIPEs, convertible debt, term loans and lines of credit.

Robert O. Smith

 

RobertMr. Smith age 73, serves as one of our independent directors. Previously, he served as a member of our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors from November 2010 until May 2015, and served as a member of our Advisory Board from 2002 until 2015. He is currently a C-level executive consultant working with Bay Area high-tech firms on various strategic initiatives in all aspects of their business. From 2004 to 2007, he served on the Board of Directors of Castelle Corporation. From 1990 to 2002, he was our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board.our board of directors. From 1980 to 1990, he held several management positions with Computer Products, Inc., the most recent being President of their Compower/Boschert Division. From 1970 to 1980, he held managerial accounting positions with Ametek/Lamb Electric and with the JM Smucker Company. Mr. Smith received his BBA degree in Accounting from Ohio University. We believe that Mr. Smith’sSmith’s executive-level experience, including his previous service as our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board,our board of directors, his extensive experience in the accounting industry, and his service on our Board from November 2010 until May 2015, give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

 

MotiMordechai Rosenberg

 

MotiMr. Rosenberg age 70, serves as one of our independent directors. He has served as an independent consultant to various companies in the design and implementation of homeland security systems in Europe and Africa since 2010. From 2004 to 2009, he served as a special consultant to Bullet Plate Ltd., a manufacturer of armor protection systems, and NovIdea Ltd., a manufacturer of perimeter and border security systems. From 2000 to 2003, Mr. Rosenberg was the general manager of ZIV U.P.V.C Products Ltd.'s’s doors and window factory. Mr. Rosenberg is an active reserve officer and a retired colonel from the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), where he served for 26 years and was involved in the development of weapon systems. In the IDF, Mr. Rosenberg served in various capacities, including, platoon, company, battalion and brigade commander, head of the training center for all IDF infantry, and head of the Air Force'sForce’s Special Forces. Mr. Rosenberg received a B.A in History from the University of Tel Aviv and a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Haifa in Israel. Mr. Rosenberg graduated from the course of Directors & Officers at the College of Management, Tel Aviv. We believe that Mr. Rosenberg’sRosenberg’s business background give him the qualifications to serve as one of our directors.

 

Uri FriedlanderJeffrey Bentz

 

Mr. Friedlander, age 54,Bentz serves as one of our independent directors. Mr. Bentz is an experienced businessman who has served since 1994 as President of North Star Terminal & Stevedore Company, a full-service stevedoring company located in Alaska and whose major areas of business include terminal operations and management, stevedore services, and heavy equipment operations. He also has served as Vice President, Chief Accounting officer since October, 2015. Since 1997,a director and advisor to several private companies and agencies. Mr. FridlanderBentz obtained a B.A. in Business and Finance from Western Washington University in 1981. We believe that Mr. Bentz’s executive-level experience, including his operational and financial oversight of companies with multiple profit centers and his extensive experience in the real estate and commercial services industries give him the qualifications and skills to serve as one of our directors.

Jodi Brichan

Ms. Brichan serves as one of our independent directors. Ms. Brichan has more than 25 years of experience in product commercialization, clinical research, marketing communications, sales planning and product launches. From February through November of 2020, Ms. Brichan served as the Chief Growth Officer of Greater Than One, Inc., a San Francisco-based media company. From January through September of 2019, Ms. Brichan served as the Chief Executive Officer of AdvaVet, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oasmia Pharmaceutical AB, a Sweden-based pharmaceutical company engaged in the field of human and veterinary oncology. From 2008 to 2016, Ms. Brichan held senior positions with Omnicom Health Group, a global healthcare marketing and communications company, including acting as Global Client Leader and as a Senior Vice President. From 2003 through 2008, Ms. Brichan held senior management positions with Publicis Health, a healthcare communications network, including as SVP of Client Services. Currently, she serves as a consultant to companies in the life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceutical and device industries and is a board member of the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association in San Francisco, California. Ms. Brichan brings significant experience in building businesses, diverse healthcare background, and history of successful product launches and award-winning advertising campaigns. We believe that Ms. Brichan’s business background gives her the qualifications to serve as one of our directors. 

Howard Ash

Mr. Ash serves as one of our independent directors. Mr. Ash is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in business and finance, who served as CEO, COO and CFO to a variety of high profile, international companies. Mr. Ash continues to serve as Chairman of Claridge Management since 2000. Mr. Ash was a director of Net Element, Inc. (NASDAQ-NETE) from June 13, 2016 through July 13, 2020, serving as Chairman of both the Audit and Compensation committees, as well as the Nominating and Governance Committees during his tenure. He served as Chief Operating Officer of BioCard Corporation from 1997 to 2007. He served as Chief Operating Officer of CITA Americas, Inc. from 1996 to 1997. Mr. Ash served as Chief Executive Officer of IEDC Marketing, Inc. from 1992 to 1996. He held a CFO/Chief Strategist position at Abrams, Ash & Associates from 1990 to 1992. Mr. Ash currently serves on the Advisory Board of the UK based E2Exchange, the Institute of Entrepreneurs, since 2011, and is the only non-UK citizen holding that position. Mr. Ash served from 2009 to 2014 in a senior development and strategic capacity for One Laptop Per Child, a global NGO created to provide educational opportunities providing laptops to the world’s poorest children. Prior Chairmanships include the 2009 through 2012 term for the Sturge Weber Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to curing this rare but fatal syndrome affecting children. Previously, Mr. Ash was an Advisory Board Member to Edge Global Investment Limited which forged a strategic partnership with the Africa Forum, consisting of 37 former Heads of State and Government. Mr. Ash started an interest-free micro-loan society in 1987 that has provided more than $15 million in micro-loans throughout the United States and Israel. In 1999, Mr. Ash founded the Circle of Life Resource Center, Inc., a food bank in Miami, Florida that feeds several hundred families per week. Mr. Ash earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree, with Honors in Accounting and Law from the University of Witwatersrand (South Africa) in 1980. We believe that Mr. Ash’s extensive experience as a business and finance executive and member of multiple oversight bodies, provides him with the necessary skills to be qualified to serve as one of our directors.

Corporate Governance

Our Board is currently composed of eight members and maintains the following three standing committees: (1) the Audit Committee; (2) the Compensation Committee; and (3) the Nominating and Governance Committee. The membership and the function of each of the committees are described below. Our Board may, from time to time, establish a new committee or dissolve an existing committee depending on the circumstances. Current copies of the charters for the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee can be found on our website at https://aultglobal.com.

Audit Committee

Messrs. Ash, Smith and Bentz currently comprise the Audit Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Audit Committee satisfies the requirements for independence and financial literacy under the standards of the SEC and the NYSE American. Our Board has also determined that Messrs. Ash and Smith qualify as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in SEC regulations and satisfies the financial sophistication requirements set forth in the NYSE American Rules.

The Audit Committee is responsible for, among other things, selecting and hiring our independent auditors, approving the audit and pre-approving any non-audit services to be performed by our independent auditors; reviewing the scope of the annual audit undertaken by our independent auditors and the progress and results of their work; reviewing our financial statements, internal accounting and auditing procedures, and corporate programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws; and reviewing the services performed by our independent auditors to determine if the services rendered are compatible with maintaining the independent auditors’ impartial opinion.

Compensation Committee

Messrs. Smith, Bentz and Rosenberg as well as Ms. Brichan currently comprise the Compensation Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Compensation Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American. Mr. Bentz serves as Chairman of the Compensation Committee.

The Compensation Committee is responsible for, among other things, reviewing and approving executive compensation policies and practices; reviewing and approving salaries, bonuses and other benefits paid to our officers, including our Chief Executive Officer, President and Chief Financial Officer; and administering our stock option plans and other benefit plans.

Nominating and Governance Committee

Messrs. Ash and Rosenberg, as well as Ms. Brichan currently comprise the Nominating and Governance Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Nominating and Governance Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE American. Ms. Brichan serves as Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee.

The Nominating and Governance Committee is responsible for, among other things, assisting our Board in identifying prospective director nominees and recommending nominees for each annual meeting of stockholders to the Board; developing and recommending governance principles applicable to our Board; overseeing the evaluation of our Board and management; and recommending potential members for each Board committee to our Board.

The Nominating and Governance Committee considers diversity when identifying Board candidates. In particular, it considers such criteria as a candidate’s broad-based business and professional skills, experiences and global business and social perspective.

In addition, the Committee seeks directors who exhibit personal integrity and a concern for the long-term interests of stockholders, as well as those who have time available to devote to Board activities and to enhancing their knowledge of the power-supply industry. Accordingly, we seek to attract and retain highly qualified directors who have sufficient time to attend to their substantial duties and responsibilities.

Executive Committee

As a holding company, our business strategy is designed to increase shareholder value. Under this strategy, we are focused on managing and financially supporting our existing subsidiaries and partner companies, with the goal of pursuing monetization opportunities and maximizing the value returned to shareholders. We have, are and will consider initiatives including, among others: public offerings, the sale of individual partner companies, the sale of certain or all partner company interests in secondary market transactions, or a combination thereof, as well as other opportunities to maximize shareholder value, such as activist trading. We anticipate returning value to shareholders after satisfying our debt obligations and working capital needs.

On October 7, 2019, we created an Executive Committee which is comprised of our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. The Executive Committee meets on a daily basis to address the Company’s critical needs and provides a forum to approve transactions which are communicated to our Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of Telkoor. From 1991Finance on a bi-weekly basis by our Chief Executive Officer

Our Executive Committee approves and manages our trading strategy. The Executive Committee has decades of experience in financial, investing and securities transactions. Led by our Executive Chairman, Milton “Todd” Ault III, we seek to 1997, Mr. Fridlander wasfind undervalued companies and disruptive technologies with a global impact. We also use a traditional methodology for valuing securities that primarily looks for deeply depressed prices. Upon making an investment, we often become actively involved in the controllercompanies we seek to acquire. That activity may involve a broad range of I.T.L Ltd.,approaches, from influencing the management of a developer of electro optic military systems, and Q.P.S Ltd.,target to take steps to improve stockholder value, to acquiring a developer of power supplies, unitscontrolling interest or outright ownership of the Clal Electronics Ltd. Group. From 1986 until 1991 he served as an auditor for Lyboshitz & Kasirer (Arthur Andersen) public accountants.target company in order to implement changes that we believe are required to improve its business, and then operating and expanding that business. Mr. Friedlander earned a B.A. in accountingAult relies heavily on Mr. William B. Horne, the Company’s Vice Chairman and economics from Tel-Aviv University.Chief Executive Officer and Henry Nisser, the Company’s President and General Counsel, to provide analysis and guidance on all acquisition targets and throughout the acquisition process.

 


From time to time, we engage in discussions with other companies interested in our subsidiaries or partner companies, either in response to inquiries or as part of a process we initiate. To the extent we believe that a subsidiary partner company’s further growth and development can best be supported by a different ownership structure or if we otherwise believe it is in our shareholders’ best interests, we will seek to sell some or all of our position in the subsidiary or partner company. These sales may take the form of privately negotiated sales of stock or assets, mergers and acquisitions, public offerings of the subsidiary or partner company’s securities and, in the case of publicly traded partner companies, transactions in their securities in the open market. Our plans may include taking subsidiaries or partner companies public through rights offerings and directed share subscription programs. We will continue to consider these and functionally equivalent programs and the sale of certain subsidiary or partner company interests in secondary market transactions to maximize value for our shareholders.

Our Executive Committee acts as the underwriting committee for our subsidiary Digital Power Lending LLC (“DP Lending”) and approves all lending transactions. Under its business model, DP Lending generates revenue through origination fees charged to borrowers and interest generated from each loan. DP Lending may also generate income from appreciation of investments in marketable securities as well as any shares of common stock underlying convertible notes or warrants issued to DP Lending in any particular financing. DP Lending’s activities are more fully described elsewhere in this Annual Report; see page 10.

 

Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

 

Except as disclosedset forth below, to our knowledge, nonethe best of our current directors or executive officers has,knowledge, during the past ten years:years, none of the following occurred with respect to a present or former director, executive officer, or employee:

 

·

been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);

·

had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against the business or property of the person, or of any partnership, corporation or business association of which he was a general partner or executive officer, either at the time of the bankruptcy filing or within two years prior to that time;

·

been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction or federal or state authority, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting, his involvement in any type of business, securities, futures, commodities, investment, banking, savings and loan, or insurance activities, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity;

·

been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated;

·

been the subject of, or a party to, any federal or state judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated (not including any settlement of a civil proceeding among private litigants), relating to an alleged violation of any federal or state securities or commodities law or regulation, any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order, or any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity; or

·

or been the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.

 

1.          Mr. Ault held series 7, 24, and 63 licenses and managed four domestic hedge funds and one bond fund from 1998 through 2008. On April 26, 2012, as a result from an investigation by FINRA involving activities during 2008, Mr. Ault agreed to a settlement with FINRA in which he did not admit to any liability or violation of any laws or regulatory rules and that included restitution and a suspension from association with a FINRA member firm for a period of two years. As part of that settlement, Mr. Ault agreed that he would make restitution to certain investors. Mr. Ault did not within the prescribed time period make a restitution payment to certain of the investors as he was unable to locate all of them, nor did he forward the undistributed restitution in the state where the investor was known to have resided, as directed by FINRA.

1.Mr. Ault held series 7, 24, and 63 licenses and managed four domestic hedge funds and one bond fund from 1998 through 2008. On April 26, 2012, as a result from an investigation by FINRA involving activities during 2008, Mr. Ault agreed to a settlement with FINRA in which he did not admit to any liability or violation of any laws or regulatory rules and that included restitution and a suspension from association with a FINRA member firm for a period of 2 years. As part of that settlement, Mr. Ault agreed that before he would reapply for association with FINRA, if at all, he would make restitution to certain investors. Mr. Ault was able to speak with and pay restitution to one of the investors, but no others. As a result, Mr. Ault is neither eligible, nor does he intend, to apply for association with FINRA.

 

2.          Mr. Ault was CEO, President and Chairman of Zealous Holdings, Inc. that filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) on February 20, 2009, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California. This Chapter 11 filing was subsequently converted to a Chapter 7 filing by order of the Bankruptcy Court. Zealous Holdings, Inc. was not an entity that was entitled to a discharge under the bankruptcy code. As such Zealous Holdings, Inc. did not receive a discharge. Ultimately, Zealous Holdings, Inc. ceased doing business and was permanently closed.

3.          Mr. Ault filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) on December 8, 2009, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California. This Chapter 13 filing was subsequently converted to a Chapter 7 filing by order of the Bankruptcy Court and months later, the petition being withdrawn and dismissed without prejudice.


2.On June 23, 2015, Local Corporation, a Delaware corporation, filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code. Mr. Cragun, our chief financial officer, was chief financial officer of Local Corporation at the time of filing.

 

Except as set forth in our discussion below in “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” none of our directors or executive officers has been involved in any transactions with us or any of our directors, executive officers, affiliates or associates which are required to be disclosed pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC.

 

Family Relationships. Milton C. Ault, III and Kristine Ault are spouses.Relationships

 

BoardThere are no family relationships among our directors and Committee Membership

Our Board is currently composed of five members and maintains the following three standing committees: (1) the Audit Committee; (2) the Compensation Committee; and (3) the Nominating and Governance Committee. The membership and the function of each of the committees are described below. Our Board may, from time to time, establish a new committee or dissolve an existing committee depending on the circumstances. Current copies of the charters for the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee can be found on our website at www.digipwr.com.

Audit Committee

Messrs. Horne, Smith, and Rosenberg currently comprise the Audit Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Audit Committee satisfies the requirements for independence and financial literacy under the standards of the SEC and the NYSE MKT. Our Board has also determined that Mr. Horne qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in SEC regulations and satisfies the financial sophistication requirements set forth in the NYSE MKT Rules.

The Audit Committee is responsible for, among other things, selecting and hiring our independent auditors, approving the audit and pre-approving any non-audit services to be performed by our independent auditors; reviewing the scope of the annual audit undertaken by our independent auditors and the progress and results of their work; reviewing our financial statements, internal accounting and auditing procedures, and corporate programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws; and reviewing the services performed by our independent auditors to determine if the services rendered are compatible with maintaining the independent auditors’ impartial opinion.

Compensation Committee

Messrs. Horne, Smith, and Rosenberg currently comprise the Compensation Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Compensation Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE MKT. Mr. Smith serves as Chairman of the Compensation Committee.

The Compensation Committee is responsible for, among other things, reviewing and approving executive compensation policies and practices; reviewing and approving salaries, bonuses and other benefits paid to our officers, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer; and administering our stock option plans and other benefit plans.

Nominating and Governance Committee

Messrs. Smith, Horne, and Rosenberg currently comprise the Nominating and Governance Committee of our Board. Our Board has determined that each of the current members of the Nominating and Governance Committee meets the requirements for independence under the standards of the NYSE MKT. Mr. Rosenberg serves as Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee.

The Nominating and Governance Committee is responsible for, among other things, assisting our Board in identifying prospective director nominees and recommending nominees for each annual meeting of shareholders to the Board; developing and recommending governance principles applicable to our Board; overseeing the evaluation of our Board and management; and recommending potential members for each Board committee to our Board.


The Nominating and Governance Committee considers diversity when identifying Board candidates. In particular, it considers such criteria as a candidate’s broad-based business and professional skills, experiences and global business and social perspective.

In addition, the Committee seeks directors who exhibit personal integrity and a concern for the long-term interests of shareholders, as well as those who have time available to devote to Board activities and to enhancing their knowledge of the power-supply industry. Accordingly, we seek to attract and retain highly qualified directors who have sufficient time to attend to their substantial duties and responsibilities.officers.

 

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our executive officers and directors and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered class of our equity securities to file an initial report of ownership on Form 3 and changes in ownership on Form 4 or Form 5 with the SEC. Executive officers, directors and ten percent shareholdersstockholders are also required by SEC rules to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. Based solely upon our review of Forms 3, 4 and 5 received by us, or written representations from certain reporting persons, we believe that during the during current fiscal year and the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, all such filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and ten percent shareholdersstockholders were fulfilled with the following exceptions.

exception: During the fiscal year 2016, Messrs. Horne, Smith and Rosenberg, and Ms. Ault eachof 2020, all of our directors inadvertently filed one late one Form 4 reporting one transaction and Mr. Kohn inadvertently file three Forms 4s late reporting eight transactions.transaction.

 

Code of Ethics

 

We have adopted the Code of Ethical Conduct that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller or person performing similar functions (collectively, the “Financial Managers”).functions. The Code of Ethical Conduct is designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote honest and ethical conduct and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The full text of our Code of Ethical Conduct is published on our website at www.digipwr.comhttps://aultglobal.com. We will disclose any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethical Conduct or any waivers, explicit or implicit, from a provision of the Code on our website or in a current report on Form 8-K. Upon request to our President, and CEO, Amos Kohn, we will provide without charge, a copy of our Code of Ethical Conduct.

 

ITEM 11.         EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.

ITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

The following Summary Compensation Table sets forth all compensation earned in all capacities during the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, by our Chief Executive Officer (“Named Executive Officer”).Officer. Because we are a Smaller Reporting Company, we only have to report information of our Chief Executive Officer as noand our two other officer met the definition of Named Executive Officer within the meaning of SEC rules.most highly compensated executive officers.

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

 

 

 

Name and

Principal

Position

Year

 

Salary

($)

 

Bonus

($)

 

Stock

Awards

($)

 

Option

Awards

($)(1)

 

Non-equity

Incentive Plan

Compensation ($)

 

Nonqualified

Deferred

Compensation

Earnings ($)

 

Other

Compensation

($)(2)

 

Total ($)

 

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLESUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE 
Name and principal positionYearSalary ($)Bonus ($)Stock Awards ($) (1)Option
Awards ($) (1)
All Other Compensation ($)(2)Total ($) 
Milton C. Ault, III2020400,000200,000030,202630,202 
Executive Chairman of the Board2019400,000018,832418,832 
William B. Horne2020300,000150,000045,164495,164 
Chief Executive Officer2019300,00010,000017,856327,856 

Amos Kohn

2016

 

$

234,866

 

-

 

-

 

$

366,409

 

 

-

 

-

 

$

36,269

 

$

637,564

 

2020350,000030,247380,247 

Chief Executive Officer

2015

 

$

215,118

 

-

 

-

 

$

120,184

 

 

-

 

-

 

$

43,677

 

$

378,979

 

President2019350,000 0047,902397,902 
Henry C. Nisser2020225,000100,000011,825336,825 
President and General Counsel (3)2019133,33350,00005,807189,140 
Kenneth S. Cragun2020200,00025,000021,398246,398 
Chief Financial Officer (4)   

 

(1)

RepresentsThe values reported in the equity-based compensation expenses recorded in our consolidated financial statements for“Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns represent the year ended December 31, 2016, based upon the option’saggregate grant date fair value, on the grant date, calculatedcomputed in accordance with accounting guidance for equity-based compensation. For a discussionAccounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 718 Share Based Payments, of the assumptions used in reaching this valuation, see Note 8grants of stock options and stock awards to our consolidated financial statements fornamed executive officer in the year ended December 31, 2016.

years shown.

(2)

The amounts in "All“All Other Compensation"Compensation” consist of health insurance benefits, vehicle allowance, long-term and short-term disability insurance benefits, and 401K matching amounts.

(3)Mr. Nisser was appointed as our General Counsel and Executive Vice President on May 1, 2019. Effective October 1, 2020, Mr. Nisser’s salary was increased to $300,000 per annum.
(4)Mr. Cragun was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer on August 20, 2020. Mr. Cragun’s compensation reflects total amount paid for the full year as Mr. Cragun was our Chief Accounting Officer prior to his appointment as Chief Financial Officer.

 


 

Employment Agreement with Amos KohnMilton C. Ault, III

 

On November 30, 2016, as amended on February 22, 2017,June 17, 2018, the Company entered into ana ten year executive employment agreement with Amos KohnMilton C. Ault, III, to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer with an effective date of September 22, 2016.

the Company.  For his services, Mr. KohnAult will be paid a base salary of $300,000$400,000 per annum increasing(the “Base Salary”).

Pursuant to $350,000 per annum provided thatthe terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the agreement, if the Company achieves revenuesmeets or exceeds criteria adopted by the Company’s compensation committee (the “Compensation Committee”) for earning bonuses which shall be adopted by the Compensation Committee annually, Mr. Ault shall be eligible to receive an annual bonus, which percentage shall be based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Compensation Committee.

Further, Mr. Ault is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of at least $10,000,000 as determined1,250 shares of common stock, which shares shall vest ratably over 48 months beginning on January 1, 2020, provided, however, that such shares may, in accordancewhole or in part, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an Annual Report on Form 10-K with U.S. GAAPthe Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”)  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the trailing four calendar quarters.applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of Mr. Ault, which consent may be withheld in his discretion.

 

In addition, Mr. KohnAult shall be eligible to receive a performance-based award (the “CEO Performance Award”), provided that the Company, for any given fiscal year during the term of this agreement, meets the following criteria: (A) an increase in revenue, as calculated under GAAP over the previous fiscal year as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year; provided that any increase less than thirty-five percent (35%) (the “Revenue Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; (B) positive net income, as calculated under GAAP, as reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K or successor form for such fiscal year, provided that any increase less than five percent (5%) (the “Net Income Percentage”) shall reduce the CEO Performance Award correspondingly; and (C) positive net cash flow from operations on a year-to-year basis, where cash flow is defined as the net amount of cash and cash-equivalents being transferred into and out of the Company. The CEO Performance Award shall consist of a number of shares of the Company’s common stock having a maximum value equal to ten percent (10%) of any appreciation in the Company’s Market Capitalization above the High Water Mark (as such terms are defined in the agreement) as measured by the daily average closing bid price of the Company’s common stock for the applicable fiscal year subject to proration obtained by the product of Revenue Percentage and the Net Income Percentage. If the CEO Performance Award in a fiscal year is less than ten percent (10%) due to a reduction caused by an annual shortfall in either the Revenue Percentage or the Net Income Percentage, the prior year’s targets would be deemed to have been achieved if a corresponding overage in a subsequent fiscal year results in the achievement of the cumulative targets.  The annual and cumulative targets for revenue and net income, which are provided solely for the purpose of establishing cumulative totals, are set forth in the agreement.

Upon termination of Mr. Ault’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Ault shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Ault’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Ault’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Ault a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four (4) weeks of base salary for each full year of service and credit for his service commencing from September 22, 2016, (B) should Mr. Ault provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, but in no event an amount greater than the Base Salary payable should either such period expire within two years, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Ault is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Ault would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Ault will be paid an amount equal to the greater of: (i) five times his then current Base Salary or (ii) the Separation Payment amount set forth above, without regard to whether Mr. Ault continues in the employ of the Company or its successor.

Employment agreement with William B. Horne

On January 25, 2018, we entered into a five-year employment agreement with William Horne to serve as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the Company and its subsidiaries.  For his services, Mr. Horne will be paid a base salary of $250,000 per annum. Upon signing of the employment agreement, Mr. Horne is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $25,000.  In addition, Mr. Horne shall be eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’sCompany’s compensation committee after conferring with Mr. Kohn. The target amount of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus shall be 25% to 50% of his then annual base salary but may be greater upon mutual agreement between Mr. Kohn and the compensation committee.

 

Further, Mr. KohnHorne is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (i) ten-year warrants to purchase 317,460a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 1,250 shares of the Company's Common Stock (the "Warrant Grant") at an exercise pricecommon stock, which shares shall vest in installments of $0.01 per share subject to vesting quarterlytwo hundred fifty (250) shares annually over twofive (5) years effectivebeginning on January 1, 2017; and (ii) ten-year options to purchase 1,000,0002019, provided, however, that such shares may, in whole or in part, in the discretion of the Company’s Common Stock atCompensation Committee, vest immediately upon the filing of an exercise priceAnnual Report on Form 10-K with the SEC  that shows that the Company’s revenues for the applicable fiscal year reached or exceeded $100,000,000; notwithstanding the foregoing, before the Company accelerates any such vesting, the Company’s Compensation Committee must prior thereto have obtained the consent of $0.65 per share. The optionMr. Horne, which consent may be withheld in his discretion.

Upon termination of Mr. Horne’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Horne shall be entitled to purchase 1,000,000 sharesreceive: (i) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (ii) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Horne’s employment is terminated as a result of Common Stockhis death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Horne’s employment, the Company shall pay to Mr. Horne a “Separation Payment” as follows:  (A)  an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (B) should Mr. Horne provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement  within 60 days of termination, then the Company shall: (i) pay his base salary until the last to occur (the “Separation Period”) of (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 12-month period commencing on the date Mr. Horne is subjectterminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the Separation Period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an amount equal to the following vesting schedule: (1)product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Horne would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months.  Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Horne will be paid an amount equal to purchase 500,000 sharesfour times his Separation Payment.

Employment Agreement with Henry Nisser

On April 12, 2019, the Company entered into a four-year employment agreement (the “Agreement”) with Henry Nisser to serve as General Counsel and Executive Vice President of Common Stock shall vestthe DPW Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries. The effective date of the Agreement is May 1, 2019. Pursuant to the Agreement, Mr. Nisser will be paid a base salary of $200,000 per annum (the “Base Salary”).

Upon the effective date of the Agreement, Mr. Nisser is entitled to a signing bonus in the amount of $50,000, with $25,000 being payable upon the effective date; (2) optionsdate and $25,000 being payable no later than September 1, 2019. In addition, Mr. Nisser shall be eligible to purchasereceive an annual cash bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary based on achievement of applicable performance goals determined by the Company’s compensation committee, which bonus shall not exceed 300% of the Base Salary.

Further, Mr. Nisser is entitled to receive equity participation as follows: (A) a grant of restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 250,000 shares of Common Stockcommon stock, which shares shall vest ratably over six48 months beginning with the first month after the effective date;date, and (3) options(B) an option to purchase 250,000200,000 shares of common stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date. As part of the grant of the options to purchase 1,000,000 shares, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 535,000 shares of common stock previously granted to him under the Company’s Incentive Share Option Plans.

In the event that Mr. Kohn is terminated by the Company without cause, or if Mr. Kohn resigns for good reason, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to (i) all annual salary earned prior to the termination date, any earned but unpaid portion of Mr. Kohn’s annual performance bonus for the year preceding in which such termination occurred and any earned but unpaid paid time off; (ii) an amount equal to 100% of Mr. Kohn’s then in effect annual base salary plus an additional 1/12th of Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary for each year of employment with the Company prior to such termination; (iii) an amount equal to the average of Mr. Kohn’s two prior years’ annual bonuses (with such average not to exceed 50% of the Mr. Kohn’s annual base salary in effect at the time of termination) prorated for the portion of the year that executive was employed; (iv) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and held by Mr. Kohn through the termination date and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn’s restricted stock shall cease; and (v) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at Company expense for a period of not less than 18 months.

If Mr. Kohn is terminated without cause, or resigns for good reason within 12 months of a change of control, Mr. Kohn shall be entitled to receive: (i) payment in a lump sum of Mr. Kohn annual base salary for 24 months and any accrued, unused paid time-off; (ii) accelerated vesting of all outstanding unvested stock options and other equity arrangements subject to vesting and the Company’s right to repurchase Mr. Kohn restricted stock shall cease; and (iii) to the extent required by COBRA, continuation of group health benefits pursuant to the Company's standard programs or in effect at the termination date at the Company’s expense for a period of not less than 18 months.


Mr. Friedlander

On October 7, 2015 the Compensation Committee agree to pay Mr. Friedlander an annual payment of $58,000 (which includes compensation and business expenses and travel) and granted him 20,000 stock options under the 2012 Stock Option Plan. The options, which will have anper share exercise price equal to the closing market price on the effective date, which option shall have a term of seven (7) years.

Mr. Nisser’s bonuses, if any, and all stock based compensation shall be subject to “Company Clawback Rights” if during the period that Mr. Nisser is employed by the Company and upon the termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment and for a period of two years thereafter, there is a restatement of any of the Company’s financial results from which any bonuses and stock based compensation to Mr. Nisser shall have been determined.

Upon termination of Mr. Nisser’s employment (other than upon the expiration of the employment), Mr. Nisser shall be entitled to receive: (A) any earned but unpaid base salary through the termination date; (B) all reasonable expenses paid or incurred; and (C) any accrued but unused vacation time.

Further, unless Mr. Nisser’s employment is terminated as a result of his death or disability or for cause or he terminates his employment without good reason, then upon the termination or non-renewal of Mr. Nisser’s employment, the Company’s shares shall pay to Mr. Nisser a “Separation Payment” as follows: (a) an amount equal to four weeks of base salary for each full year of service, (b) commencing on the close of business on October 7, 2015, vest over a fourdate that shall be one (1) year period at 25% per year and expire 10 years from the effective date, should Mr. Nisser provide the Company with a separation, waiver and release agreement within 30 days of grant.termination, then the Company shall pay to Mr. Friedlander does notNisser the Base Salary (in effect immediately prior to the termination date) an amount equal to the lesser of what Mr. Nisser would have received if the employment period ended after (1) the expiration of the remaining portion of the initial term or the then applicable renewal term, as the case may be, or (2) the 18-month period commencing on the date Executive is terminated, payable in one lump sum; (ii) provide during the separation period the same medical, dental, long-term disability and life insurance; and (iii) pay an employment contract.amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the maximum annual bonus as Mr. Nisser would have been otherwise entitled to receive by (y) the fraction in which the numerator is the number of calendar months worked including the entire month in which severance occurred and the denominator of which is 12; and (iv) all outstanding options and other equity awards shall immediately vest and become fully exercisable for a period of 24 months. Finally, upon the occurrence of a change in control, Mr. Nisser will be paid an amount equal to four times his Separation Payment.

 

Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation

 

At the annual meeting of shareholdersstockholders on December 28, 2016,July 2, 2019, the shareholdersstockholders approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to the Company’sCompany’s named executive officers. In addition, shareholdersstockholders voted, on an advisory basis, that an advisory vote on executive compensation should be held every three years.

 

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table provides information on outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 20162020 to the Named Executive Officer.

 

 

 

Option Award

 

 

Stock Award

 

Name

 

Number of

securities

underlying un

exercised

options (#)

exercisable

 

 

Number of

securities

underlying

unexercised

options (#)

exercisable

 

 

Equity incentive

plan awards:

Number of

securities

underlying

unexercised

unearned

options (#)

 

 

Option

exercise

price ($)

 

 

Option

expiration date

 

 

Number of

shares or

units of

stock that

have not

vested (#)

 

 

Market

value of

units of

stock that

have not

vested (#)

 

 

Equity

income plan

award:

Number of

unearned

shares, units

or other rights

that have not

vested (#)

 

 

Equity

income plan

awards:

Market or

payout value

of unearned

shares, units

or other rights

that have not

vested ($)

 

Amos Kohn

 

 

687,500

(1) 

 

 

312,500

(1) 

 

 

 

 

 

$

0.65

 

 

 

9/22/27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

317,460

(2) 

 

 

 

 

 

$

0.01

 

 

9/22/27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)          Effective September 22, 2016, Mr. Kohn was granted options to 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock at $0.65 per share. The options to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock are subject to the following vesting schedule: (1) options to purchase 500,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest upon the effective date; (2) options to purchase 250,000 shares of Common Stock shall vest ratably over six months beginning with the first month after the effective date; and (3) options to purchase 250,000 shares of common stock shall vest ratably over twelve months beginning with the first month after the effective date.    In connection with the grant of options to purchase 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock, Mr. Kohn forfeited options to purchase 535,000 shares of common stock previously granted to him under the Company’s 2012 Plan.
OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2020
OPTION AWARDS

Name

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
Equity Incentive Plan
Awards: Number of
Securities Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned Options (#)

Option
Exercise
Price ($)

Option
Expiration
Date
Milton C. Ault III
William B. Horne
Amos Kohn
Henry C. Nisser
Kenneth S. Cragun

 

(2)          Represents warrants to purchase 317,460 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share subject to vesting quarterly over two years beginning January 1, 2017 granted to Mr. Kohn in connection with his employment agreement.

 

Director Compensation

 

During 2015, independent directors received $10,000 annually for serving on our Board. Directors are paid quarterly in arrears for their services. For 2016, and thereafter,Beginning July 1, 2019, the Company pays each independent director $20,000an annual base amount of $35,000 annually, other than Mr. Smith, who will receive $30,000a base amount of $45,000 annually due to anticipated additional services to be provided by Mr. Smith as a lead independent director.


On November 22, 2016, each non-employee director received optionsand Mr. Ash, who will receive a base amount of $45,000 annually due to purchase 200,000 sharesanticipated additional services provided by Mr. Ash as Audit Committee Chairman. Additionally, our Board makes recommendations for adjustments to an independent director’s compensation when the level of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.70 per share. The optionsservices provided are subject to vesting of which one-third vested immediately and the remaining unvested options will vest equally on the subsequent anniversary dates.significantly above what was anticipated.

 

The table below sets forth, for each non-employee director, the total amount of compensation related to his or her service during the year ended December 31, 2016:2020:

 

Name

 

Fees

Earned or

Paid in

Cash

 

 

Warrant

Awards

 

 

Option

Awards

 

 

Non-Equity

Incentive Plan

Compensation

 

 

Nonqualified

Deferred

Compensation

Earnings

 

 

All Other

Compensation

 

 

Total ($)

 

Robert Smith (1)

 

$

5,000

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

32,145

(5)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

$

37,145

 

Kristine Ault (2)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

32,145

(5)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

32,145

 

William B Horne (2)

 

$

3,333

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

32,145

(5)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

35,478

 

Moti Rosenberg

 

$

11,666

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

33,355

(5)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

45,021

 

Ben-Zion Diamant (3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

24,693

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

85,983

 

 

$

110,676

 

Haim Yatim (4)

 

$

13,498

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

1,758

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

15,256

 

Israel Levi (4)

 

$

7,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

1,758

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

9,258

 

  Fees earned or  Stock  Option  All other    
Name paid in cash ($)  awards ($)  awards ($)  compensation ($)  Total ($) 
Robert O. Smith  70,000            70,000 
Jeffrey A. Bentz  60,000            60,000 
Mordechai Rosenberg  60,000            60,000 
Jodi Brichan  55,000            55,000 
Howard Ash (1)  38,750            38,750 

 

(1)

(1)

Mr. SmithAsh was appointed to the Board on September 22, 2016.

(2)

Ms. Ault and Mr. Horne were each appointed to the Board on October 13, 2016.

(3)

On September 12, 2011, our Board of Directors approved the payment of monthly consulting fees of $6,000 to Ben-Zion Diamant, our former Chairman of the Board of Directors. On March 21, 2016, the Compensation Committee and Board of Directors approvedas an increase to the monthly consulting fee to Mr. Diamant to $7,500 effective as of March 21, 2016. Mr. Diamant resigned as aindependent director on September 22, 2016, but as part of a Securities Purchase Agreement byAugust 13, 2020 and among the Company, Philou Ventures and Telkoor, Mr. Diamant will continue to receive $7,500 for a period of 18 monthsearned compensation from September 5, 2016.

(4)

Messrs. Yatim and Levi each resigned from the board on September 22, 2016.

(5)

Effective November 2016, the non-employee director received options to purchase 200,000 shares at $.70 per share with one-third of the grant to vest immediately and the remaining two-thirds to vest over the remaining two anniversary dates.

that date.

Stock Option Plans

 

On December 28, 2016,2018, the shareholder approvestockholders approved the 20162018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016(as amended on May 5, 2019), which amendment was approved by the stockholders on July 19, 2019, the “2018 Stock Incentive Plan”Plan), under which options to acquire up to 4,000,00012,500, as increased to 175,000 pursuant to the foregoing amendment thereto, shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants. The 20162018 Stock Incentive Plan is in addition to the Company’s currentCompany’s (i) 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 2,500 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, (ii) 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”), under which options to acquire up to 5,000 shares of common stock may be granted to the Company's directors, officers, employees and consultants, and (ii) 2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “2012 Plan”2012 Plan), which provides for the issuance of a maximum of 1,372,6301,716 shares of the Company’s common stock to be offered to the Company’s directors, officers, employees, and consultants.consultants (collectively the “Plans”).

 

The purpose of both the 2016 Stock Incentive Plan and 2012 PlanPlans is to advance the interests of the Company by providing to key employees of the Company and its affiliates, who have substantial responsibility for the direction and management of the Company, as well as certain directors and consultants of the Company, additional incentives to exert their best efforts on behalf of the Company, to increase their proprietary interest in the success of the Company, to reward outstanding performance and to provide a means to attract and retain persons of outstanding ability to the service of the Company.

 

As of December 31, 2016,2020, options to purchase 2,266,000925 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding, and 3,312,6306,693 shares are available for future issuance under collectively the 2012 Plan and the 2016 Stock Incentive Plan.Plans.


 

401(k) Plan

 

WeOur subsidiaries, Coolisys and Microphase, have adopted a tax-qualified employee savings and retirement plan, or 401(k) plan, which generally covers all of ourtheir full-time employees. Pursuant to the 401(k) plan, eligible employees may make voluntary contributions to the plan up to a maximum of 5% of eligible compensation.pursuant to the current Internal Revenue Code limits. The Microphase 401(k) plan permits, but does not require, matching contributions by Digital Powerthem on behalf of plan participants. We matchThe Coolisys 401(k) plan, includes matching contributions at the rate of (1) $1.00 for each $1.00 contributed, up to 3% of the base salary and (2) $0.50 for each $1.00 contributed thereafter, up to 5% of the base salary. We are also permitted under the plan tosalary and permits make discretionary contributions. The 401(k) plan isplans are intended to qualify under Sections 401(k) and 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Contributions to such a qualified plan are deductible by the Company when made, and neither the contributions nor the income earned on those contributions is taxable to plan participants until withdrawn. All 401(k) plan contributions are credited to separate accounts maintained in trust.

 

Item 12.          Security Ownership Of Certain Beneficial Owners And Management And Related Stockholder Matters.

ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.

 

Except as otherwise indicated below, the following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial ownership of our common stock as of March 20, 201710, 2021 by (1) each of our current directors; (2) each of the named executive officers listed in the Summary Compensation Table located above in the section entitled “Executive Compensation”;officers; (3) each person known to us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of our common stock based upon Schedules 13G or 13D filed with the SEC; and (4) all of our directors and executive officers as a group. As of March 20, 2017,10, 2021, there were 8,856,85149,498,676 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding.

 

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and includes voting or investment power with respect to the securities. Common stock subject to options or warrants that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of the Record DateMarch 10, 2021 are deemed to be outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person or group holding such options or warrants for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of such person or group, but are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person or group. Unless otherwise indicated by footnote, to our knowledge, the persons named in the table have sole voting and sole investment power with respect to all common stock shown as beneficially owned by them, subject to applicable community property laws. Unless otherwise indicated below, the address of each beneficial owner listed below is c/o Digital Power Corporation, 48430 Lakeview Blvd, Fremont, California 94538.Ault Global Holdings, Inc., 11411 Southern Highlands Pkwy, #240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

 

Name and address of beneficial owner

 

Number of

shares

beneficially

owned

 

 

Approximate

percent of

class

 

Philou Ventures, LLC

P.O. Box 3587 Tustin, CA 92705

 

 

2,725,860

 

 

 

30.8

%

Amos Kohn

 

 

951,865

(1)

 

 

9.8

%

Uri Friedlander

 

 

5,000

(2)

 

 

*

 

Robert Smith

 

 

66,667

(3)

 

 

*

 

Moti Rosenberg

 

 

66,667

(4)

 

 

*

 

Kristine Ault

 

 

2,794,327

(5)

 

 

31.3

%

Milton Ault, III

 

 

2,794,327

(6)

 

 

31.3

%

William Horne

 

 

66,667

(7)

 

 

*

 

All directors and executive officers as a group (seven persons)

 

 

3,955,043

(8)

 

 

39.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Barry W. Blank,

P.O. Box 32056, Phoenix, AZ 85064

 

 

419,900

 

 

 

4.7

%

Name and address of beneficial owner Number of
shares
beneficially
owned
  Approximate
percent
of class
 
Greater than 5% Beneficial Owners:      
Philou Ventures, LLC  7,872(2)  * 
P.O. Box 3587 Tustin, CA 92705        
Ault & Company, Inc.  1,362,795(3)  2.74%
Directors and Officers: (1)        
Milton Ault, III  1,365,255(4)  2.74%
William Horne  806(7)  * 
Henry Nisser  4,622(5)  * 
Ken Cragun  0   * 
Robert Smith  54(6)  * 
Mordechai Rosenberg  0   * 
Jeffrey A. Bentz  9   * 
Jodi Brichan  0   * 
Howard Ash  0   * 
 All directors and executive officers as a group (nine persons)  1,370,746   2.75%


*           Less than one percent.

 

(1)

Includes options to purchase 812,500*

Less than one percent.

(1)Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is c/o Ault Global Holdings, Inc., 11411 Southern Heights Pkwy, Suite240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

(2)Included 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock that are convertible in 2,232 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 79,3652,232 share of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of March 20, 2017.

30, 2021. Also includes 3,408 shares of common stock.

(2)

Represents options(3)

Includes shares owned by Philou Ventures of which Ault & Company, Inc., is the Manager, 275,862 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of a convertible promissory note and warrants to purchase 5,00094 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of March 20, 2017.

30, 2021. Also includes 1,078,967 shares of common stock.

(3)

Represents options(4)

Mr. Ault is the Chief Executive Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. Includes 7,872 shares owned by Philou Ventures and 1,354,923 shares owned by Ault & Company which may be deemed beneficially owned by Mr. Ault. Also includes 417 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant and 2,043 shares of common stock.

(5)Includes 4,622 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant.

(6)Includes warrants to purchase 66,66754 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of March 20, 2017.

30, 2021.

(4)

Represents options to purchase 66,667(7)

Includes 806 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of March 20, 2017.

issuable pursuant to a stock incentive grant.

Equity Compensation Information

The following table summarizes information about our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2020.

        Number of securities 
  Number of securities  Weighted-  remaining available for 
  to be issued  average  future issuance under 
  upon exercise  exercise price  equity compensation plans 
  of outstanding  of outstanding  (excluding securities 
  options, warrants and rights  options, warrants and rights  reflected in column (a)) 
Plan Category (a)  (b)  (c) 
Equity compensation
plans approved by
stockholders (1)
  1,322  $440.72   6,693 
Equity compensation
plans not approved by
stockholders
  850,000  $1.79   - 
Total  851,322  $2.71   6,693 

(5)

(1)

Includes shares owned by Philou Ventures of which Ms. Ault is the Manager. Also includes optionswarrants to purchase 66,667397 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 daysat an exercise price of March 20, 2017.

(6)

Mr. Ault is the spouse of Kristine Ault. Includes 2,715,610 shares owned by Philou Ventures which may be deemed beneficially owned by Mr. Ault.

(7)

Represents options to purchase 66,667 shares$8.00 per share of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of March 20,were issued to Mr. Kohn and approved by the Company’s stockholders in December 2017.

(8)

Include options and warrants to purchase 1,163,533 shares of common stock that are exercisable within 60 days of March 20, 2017.

ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

 

ITEM 13.        CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCEOur Audit Committee or in certain instances, a special committee of our board of directors, monitors and reviews issues involving potential conflicts of interest and approves all transactions with related persons as defined in Item 404 of Regulation S-K under the securities laws. Examples of such transactions that must be approved by our Audit Committee or a special committee of our board of directors include, but are not limited to any transaction, arrangement, relationship (including any indebtedness) in which:

the aggregate amount involved is determined to by the Audit Committee to be material;

we are a participant; and

any of the following has or will have a direct or indirect interest in the transaction:

an executive officer, director, or nominee for election as a director;

a greater than five percent beneficial owner of our common stock; or

any immediate family member of the foregoing.

When reviewing transactions with a related person, the Audit Committee or any special committee of our board of directors formed for that purpose applies the standards for evaluating conflicts of interest outlined in our written Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.

 

The following information sets forth certain related transactions between us and certain of our shareholder ofstockholders or directors. Prior to September 22, 2016, Telkoor was our largest shareholder and Telkoor’s Chief Exectuive Officer, Benzi Diamant, was our Chairman of the Board. Effective September 22, 2016, Telkoor sold all of its shares of common stock of the Company to Philou Ventures, and as a result, Philou Ventures is our largest shareholder. Philou Ventures’ Manager is Kristine L. Ault, one of our directors. Ms. Ault is the spouse of Milton C. Ault, III, who is our Executive Chairman, of the Board.

Telkoor Telecom, Ltd.

As previously disclosed, on September 5, 2016, we entered into a securities purchase agreement with Philou Ventures, and Telkoor pursuant to which Telkoor agreed to purchase all of Telkoor’s 2,714,610 shares of the common stock in the Company, constituting approximately 40.06% of the then Company’s outstanding shares of common stock. In consideration for such shares, Philou agreed to pay Telkoor $1.5 million.

In conjunction with the securities purchase agreement, we entered into a rescission agreement with Telkoor in order to resolve all financial issues between the parties, including the repurchase by Telkoor of 1,136,666 shares of common stock of Telkoor beneficially owned by us for book value.

Finally, as part of the securities purchase agreement, we have agreed to pay Mr. Diamant $7,500 for a period of eighteen months from September 5, 2016 for consulting services.

Relationship with Telkoor Power Supplies Ltd.

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we purchased approximately $0 and $594,000, respectively, of products from Telkoor Power Supplies, Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of our largest then shareholder, Telkoor, of which Ben-Zion Diamant wasis also the Chief Executive Officer and its controlling shareholder. We had no written agreement for the purchase of these products, other than purchase orders that are placed in the ordinary course of business when the products are needed. In January 2016, Telkoor sold its commercial intellectual property to Advice Electronics Ltd. As a result, of that date no further orders have been placed with Telkoor.Ault & Company, Inc.

 


 

Purchase of IP by Digital Power Limited (“DPL”) from Telkoor Power Supplies (“TPS”)Ault & Company, Inc.

 

On August 25, 2010, we and our wholly-owned subsidiary, DPL,December 23, 2019, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement with TPS, a wholly-owned subsidiarywhereby Ault & Company, Inc. would purchase an aggregate of 660,667 shares of our largest then shareholder, Telkoor ,common stock at a purchase price per share of which Mr. Diamant is the Chief Executive Officer and controlling shareholder. Pursuant to such agreement, (1) TPS sold, assigned and conveyed to DPL all of its rights, title and interest in and$1.12, subject to the intellectual property associated with the Compact Peripheral Component Interface 600 W AC/DC power supply series (the “Assets”) and (2) DPL granted to TPS an irrevocable license to sell the Assets in Israel on an exclusive basis. In consideration for the purchaseapproval of the Assets, DPL paid TPS $480,000.NYSE American, for a total purchase price of $739,948. The consideration forpurchase was authorized by the license provided to TPS to sell the Assets in Israel is a royalty fee of 15% of TPS's direct production costs of sales, dueNYSE American on a quarterly basis. In accordance with the agreement, the consideration for the IP may be reduced over a four-year period in the event annual sales for each year between 2011 and 2014 are less than a fixed threshold of units on an annual basis based upon an offset value per unit as described in the agreement. If there is a shortfall in sale of units in one annual period and in the subsequent period we sell more than the fixed unit threshold, this difference will be offset from any reduced consideration in any annual periods between 2011 and 2014.January 15, 2020. As a result, of lower than anticipated sales by our DPL subsidiary of the Compact Peripheral Component Interface 600W AC/DC power supply series (CPCI 600W) through 2013, we amended our agreement with Telkoor (effective January 1, 2014 for the duration of the original agreement or until the shortfall of CPCI 600W product sales will be offset) to include additional products in addition to the original CPCI 600W product. As of December 31, 2015, the shortfall of sales of CPCI 600W products is greater than the outstanding royalties due. In January 2016, Telkoor sold its assets, including its subsidiary TPS, to Advice Electronics Ltd. Following this asset sale, the IP agreement between the Company and Telkoor was terminated.

Acquisition of Shares of Telkoor

On June 16, 2011 we acquired 1,136,666 shares of Telkoor, a then major shareholder of the Company which was listed on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, for $0.88 (NIS 3) per share, which represented 8.8% of the outstanding shares of Telkoor. As a result of this transaction, an existing manufacturing agreement between Digital Power and Telkoor was updated and extended. Until September 30, 2012 the investment was accounted for as an available-for-sale investment and then reclassified the accounting of the investment at cost less accumulated impairments derived from independent appraisals or available market valuations. As of December 31, 2105 the shares represented 8.4% of the outstanding shares of Telkoor which have since de-listed from the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.

On September 22, 2016, the Company sold such shares back to Telkoor for $90,000.

Manufacturing Agreements with Telkoor and Advice Electronics Ltd.

On December 31, 2012, we entered into a Manufacturing Rights Agreement (the "Manufacturing Agreement") with Telkoor, pursuant to which among other things, Telkoor granted us the non-exclusive right to directly place purchase orders for certain products from third party manufacturers for the purpose of marketing, selling and distributing the products for telecom, industrial, medical and military market segments in North and South America in consideration for the payment of royalty fees by us to Telkoor. The royalty fees paid by us to Telkoor under the Manufacturing Agreement are between 5% and 25%, depending on the product. The Manufacturing Agreement has a term of five years from the date of signature. During the agreement, Telkoor agreed not to directly or indirectly participate or engage, or assist any other party in engaging or preparing to engage, our customers in North and South America in connection with the sale or distribution of any of the products under the Manufacturing Agreement.

In January 2016, Telkoor sold all its commercial IP to Advice Electronics Ltd. ("Advice”), an Israeli company. As part of the agreement with Advice, we entered into a new agreement with Advice, according to which our manufacturing rights for certain Telkoor products will be granted to us through August 2017 against royalty payments to Advice, after which we will be entitled to distribute the products under our branding until December 2020.


Philou Ventures, LLC

On March 9, 2017, we entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Philou Ventures. Philou Ventures is the Company’s largest stockholder and Kristine L. Ault, one of our directors, controls and is a Manager of Philou Ventures. Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, Philou Ventures will invest up to $5,000,000 in us through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock (“Preferred Stock”) over the Term, as specified herein. Each share of Preferred Stock shall be purchased at $10.00 up to a maximum issuance of 500,000 shares of Preferred Stock. Philou Ventures guarantees to purchase by May 31, 2017, the greater of: (i) 100,000 shares of Preferred Stock or (ii) a sufficient number of shares of Preferred Stock to ensure that we have sufficient stockholders’ equity to meet the minimum continued listing standards of the NYSE MKT. In addition, for as long as the Preferred Stock is outstanding, Philou Ventures agrees to purchase additional shares of Preferred Stock in a sufficient amount in order us to meet the NYSE MKT’s minimum stockholders’ equity continued listing requirement subject to the maximum number of 500,000 shares of Preferred Stock (collectively, “Guaranteed Purchases”). In addition, at any time during the Term, Philou Ventures may in its sole and absolute discretion purchase additional shares of Preferred Stock, up to the 500,000 share maximum (“Voluntary Purchases”). All consideration for Voluntary Purchases shall be delivered through a series of varying payments (“Payments”) by Philou Ventures, at its sole and absolute discretion, during the period commencing on the closing date and ending 36 months therefrom (the “Term”). We haveon January 15, 2020, Ault & Company became the right to request, with 90-day written notice to Philou Ventures, that Guaranteed Purchases be accelerated to meet deadlines for maintaining the minimum stockholders’ equity required by the NYSE MKT. The Preferred Stock shall not be callable by us for 25 years from the closing date.

In addition, for each sharebeneficial owner of Preferred Stock purchased by Philou Ventures, Philou Ventures will receive warrants to purchase shares of common stock in a number equal to the stated value of each share of Preferred Stock of $10.00 purchased divided by $0.70 at an exercise price equal to $0.70 per share of common stock

Further, Philou Ventures shall have the right to participate our future financings under substantially the same terms and conditions as other investors in those respective financings in order to maintain its then percentage ownership interest us Philou Ventures’ right to participate in such financings shall accrue and accumulate provided that it still owns at least 100,000 shares of Preferred Stock.

Finally, in order to meet the requirement of the NYSE Mkt Rule 713, Philou Ventures will not (i) vote the shares of Preferred Stock; (ii) convert such shares of Preferred Stock into666,945 shares of Common Stock, or (iii) exercise its rights underup to 19.99% of our common stock then outstanding.

On February 5, 2020, we sold and issued an 8% Convertible Promissory Note in the Warrant untilprincipal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Note”) to Ault & Company, Inc. The principal amount of the requirement of NYSE Mkt Rule 713 has been metNote, plus any accrued and unpaid interest at a meeting, or by the requisite written consent,rate of the holders of the outstanding8% per annum, was due and payable on August 5, 2020. The Note is convertible into shares of Common Stock.our common stock, par value $0.001 per share at a conversion price of $1.45 per share.

 

On December 29, 2016, MCKEA Holdings lent us $250,000 inMilton C. Ault, III, our Executive Chairman, is also the formChief Executive Officer of a demand note bearing simple interest at 6.0%. Kristine L. Ault & Company, Inc. William B. Horne, our Chief Executive Officer, Vice Chairman and Director, is the managingalso Chief Financial Officer of Ault & Company, Inc. Henry Nisser, our President, General Counsel and a member of MCKEA Holdings, which in turn,our board of directors, is also the memberPresident, General Counsel and a director of Philou Ventures. On March 24, 2017, MCKEA Holdings cancelled the $250,000 demand note to purchase 25,000 shares of Preferred Stock and received warrants to purchase 357,143 shares of common stock at $0.70 per share.Ault & Company, Inc.

 

Avalanche International, Corp.

 

DuringOn September 6, 2017, we entered into a Loan and Security Agreement with Avalanche (as amended, the quarter endedAVLP Loan Agreement”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017 pursuant to which we will provide Avalanche a non-revolving credit facility. The AVLP Loan Agreement was recently increased to up to $15,000,000 and extended to December 31, 2016,2023.

At December 31, 2020, we had provided Avalanche International, Corp. (“Avalanche”)with $11,269,136 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company two $525,000 12% Convertible Promissory Notes, with identicalwarrants to purchase 22,537,871 shares of AVLP common stock. Under the terms dated October 5, 2016 and November 30, 2016. In consideration for the issuance of the Notes,AVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by AVLP are secured by the Company loaned $1,000,000 to Avalancheassets of which $950,000 was funded asAVLP. As of December 31, 2016,2020, we recorded contractual interest receivable attributed to the AVLP Loan Agreement of $2,025,475 and a provision for loan losses of $3,423,608. The warrants issued in conjunction with the remaining $50,000 was funded on February 17, 2016. The Notes, in the aggregate principal amount of $1,050,000, include an original issue discount of $50,000. The Notes accrue simple interest at 12% per annum and are convertible intonon-revolving credit facility entitles us to purchase up to 22,537,871 shares of Avalanche common stock at $0.74536 per share.


At any time after six months from the date of the Notes, the Company may convert the principal and interest into shares of Avalanche common stock. The conversionan exercise price of the Notes$0.50 per share for a period of five years. The exercise price of $0.50 is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events. The Notes contain standard and customary events of default including, but not limited to failure to make payments when due under the Notes and bankruptcywarrants may be exercised for cash or insolvency of Avalanche.

On February 22, 2017, subsequent to year-end, Avalanche issued the Companyon a third $525,000 12% Convertible Promissory Note (the “Third Note”). During the period from February 22, 2017 to March 3, 2017, the Company funded $172,371 pursuant to this Third Note.

Avalanche is a holding company which on March 3, 2017, entered into a share exchange agreement with MTIX and the three shareholders of MTIX. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the share exchange agreement, Avalanche will acquire MTIX from the sellers through the transfer of all issued and outstanding ordinary shares of MTIX by the sellers to Avalanche. MTIX has developed a cost effective and environment friendly material synthesis technology for textile applications utilizing the proprietary MLSE™ system which uses a combination of high voltage plasma and laser energy to imbue fabrics with desirable technical characteristics. On March 15, 2017, the Company announced that it had entered into a $50 million purchase order with MTIX to manufacture, install and service fabric treatment machines that utilize MTIX’s proprietary MLSE™ system.cashless basis.

 

Milton C. Ault, III and William Horne, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, respectively, and two of our directors are directors of Avalanche. In addition, based on Avalanche’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, Philou Ventures, of which Ault & Company, Inc., is the largest shareholderManager, is the controlling stockholder of Avalanche. Philou Ventures is our largest shareholder, and Kristine L.Mr. Ault Milton C. Ault, III’s spouse, is the manager for Philou Ventures.Executive Chairman of Avalanche. Further, our President, General Counsel and one of our directors, is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Avalanche.

 

ITEM 14.          PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.Director Independence

Independent

Audit
Committee
Member

Nominating
and
Governance
Committee

Compensation
Committee

Director
Milton C. Ault IIINo
William B. HorneNo
Henry NisserNo
Robert SmithYesXX
Howard AshYesCX
Jodi BrichanYesCX
Jeffrey A. BentzYesXC
Mordechai RosenbergYesXX

____________

C – Chairperson of committee

X – Member of committee

ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

 

Marcum LLP serves as our independent registered public accounting firm for the yearyears ended December 31, 2016. Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer,2020 and 2019. Ziv Haft, a member of Ernst & Young Global (“Kost Forer”) was our priorBDO Member Firm, serves as the independent registered public accounting firm.firm of Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd., our wholly-owned subsidiary.

 

Fees and Services

 

The following table shows the aggregate fees billed to us for professional services by Marcum LLP and Kost Forer, respectively,Ziv Haft for the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015:2019:

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Audit Fees

 

$

129,545

 

 

$

100,000

 

Audit Related Fees

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tax Fees

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All Other Fees

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

129,545

 

 

$

100,000

 

  2020  2019 
Audit Services $896,094  $878,370 
Audit Related Services      
Tax Services      
All Other Services      
Total $896,094  $878,370 

 

Audit Fee. This category includes the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered for the audits of our financial statements for the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, for the reviews of the financial statements included in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q during 20162020 and 2015,2019, and for other services that are normally provided by the independent auditors in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for the relevant years.

 

Audit-Related Fees. This category includes the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two years for assurance and related services by the independent auditors that are reasonably related to the performance of the audits or reviews of the financial statements and are not reported above under "Audit“Audit Fees," and generally consist of fees for other engagements under professional auditing standards, accounting and reporting consultations, internal control-related matters, and audits of employee benefit plans.


 

Tax Fees. This category includes the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two years for professional services rendered by the independent auditors for tax compliance, tax planning and tax advice.

 

All Other Fees. This category includes the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two years for products and services provided by the independent auditors that are not reported above under "Audit“Audit Fees," "Audit-Related” “Audit-Related Fees," or "Tax“Tax Fees."

 

The Audit Committee’sCommittee’s policy is to pre-approve all services provided by our independent auditors. These services may include audit services, audit-related services, tax services and other services. The Audit Committee may also pre-approve particular services on a case-by-case basis. Our independent auditors are required to report periodically to the Audit Committee regarding the extent of services they provide in accordance with such pre-approval.

 

PART IV

 

ITEM 15.

EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.

 

(a)

3.1

Exhibits

3.1

AmendedForm of Certificate of Determination of Preferences, Rights and Restated ArticlesLimitations of Incorporation of Digital Power Corporation (1)

3.2

AmendmentSeries B Convertible Preferred Stock, dated March 3, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Articles of Incorporation (1)

3.3

Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation (2)

3.4

Certificate of Determination; Series B Preferred Stock (3)

3.4

Bylaws of Digital Power Corporation (1)

10.1

Avalanche International $500,000 12% Senior Secured Note

10.2

Employment Agreement, as amended, with Amos Kohn * (5)

10.3

2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (6)

10.4

Manufacturing and Distribution Rights Agreement, dated January 7, 2016, by and between the Company and Advice Electronics Ltd. (7)

10.6

Securities Purchase Agreement among the Company, Philou Ventures, LLC and Telkoor Telecom. (8)

10.7

Rescission Agreement with Telkoor Telecom (9)

10.8

Form of 12% Secured Convertible Note (10)

10.9

Digital Power Corporation 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (11)

10.10

Preferred Stock Securities Agreement (12)

10.11

2016 Stock Incentive Plan (13)

21.1

Digital Power Limited

23.1

Consent of Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer

23.2

Consent of Marcum, LLP

31.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act

31.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act

32.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act

(1)

Previously filed with the CommissionCurrent Report on October 16, 1996 as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form SB-2.

(2)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed December 9, 2013.

(3)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed March 9, 2017.

(4)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on October 22, 2007.

(5)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on December 5, 2016, as amended with such amendment filed on Form 8-K on March 27, 2017.

(6)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit A to the Company’s DEF-14A filed on June 26, 2013.

(7)

Previously filed with the Commission on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 on March 30, 2016.


(8)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed September 9, 2016.

(9)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed September 9, 2016.

(10)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed October 27, 2016

(11)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed December 30, 2016

(12)

Previously filed with the Commission as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2017.

(13)

Previously filed with the Commission2017 as Exhibit 10.13.1 thereto.

3.2Certification of Incorporation, dated September 22, 2017.  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 29, 2017 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.
3.3Certificate of Designations of Rights and Preferences of 10% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock, dated September 13, 2018. Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 14, 2018 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.
3.4Certificate of Designations of Rights and Preferences of Series C Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock, dated February 27, 2019. Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 28, 2019 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.
3.5Form of Amended & Restated Certificate of Designations of Rights and Preferences of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 25, 2020 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.
3.6Bylaws effective as of August 13, 2020. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 14, 2020 as Exhibit 3.1 thereto.
3.7Certificate of Ownership and Merger. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 19, 2021 as Exhibit 2.1 thereto.
4.1Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.2Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 4, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.3Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 31, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.4Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated July 27, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 26, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.5Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated July 28, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 31, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.6Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated July 28, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 31, 2017 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.
4.7Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated August 3, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.3 thereto.
4.8Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated August 10, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 11, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.9Common Stock Purchase Warrant issued by Avalanche International Corp. to the Company, dated August 21, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.10Convertible Promissory Note issued by Avalanche International Corp. to the Company, dated August 21, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
4.11Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 2, 2017 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.12Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated March 23, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 26, 2018 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.13Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated April 16, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 16, 2018 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.14Form of Series A Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated May 17, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 16, 2018 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.15Form of Series B Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated May 17, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 16, 2018 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.
4.16Form of Series A Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated May 15, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 16, 2018 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.
4.17Form of Series B Common Stock Purchase Warrant, dated May 15, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 16, 2018 as Exhibit 4.3 thereto.
4.18Form of Underwriter’s Warrant, dated April 2, 2019.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 1, 2019 as Exhibit 4.3 thereto.
4.19Form of Common Warrant, dated April 2, 2019.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on April 4, 2019 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.20Form of Convertible Promissory Note, dated May 13, 2019. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 20, 2019 as Exhibit 4.1 thereto.
4.21Form of Warrant, dated May 13, 2019. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 20, 2019 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.

’sExhibit
Number
Description
4.22Form of Warrant, dated as of May 28, 2020. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 29, 2020 as Exhibit 4.3 thereto.
4.23Form of Warrant, dated June 26, 2020. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 29, 2020 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.
4.24Form of Warrant. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 17, 2020 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.
4.25Form of Warrant, dated October 22, 2020. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 23, 2020 as Exhibit 4.2 thereto.
4.26Form of Warrant dated October 27, 2020. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2020 as Exhibit 4.3 thereto.
4.27Form of Warrant dated October 27, 2020. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2020 as Exhibit 4.4 thereto.
4.28Form of Warrant issued to Esousa Holdings, LLC, dated November 19, 2020. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 20, 2020 as Exhibit 4.3 thereto.
4.29***Description of Capital Stock.
10.1*2012 Stock Incentive Plan.  Incorporated by reference to the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A filed on October 22, 2012 as Exhibit A thereto.
10.2*2016 Stock Incentive Plan.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 30, 2016.2016 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.3Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement between the Company and Philou Ventures, LLC, dated March 9, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.4Registration Rights Agreement between the Company and Philou Ventures, LLC. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
10.5Loan and Security Agreement between the Company and Avalanche International Corp., dated August 21, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.6*2017 Stock Incentive Plan.  Incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A filed on November 17, 2017 as Appendix E thereto.
10.7Trust Agreement between Coolisys Technologies Inc. and Roni Kohn, dated May 14, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 22, 2017 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.8Tenancy-In-Common Agreement between Coolisys Technologies Inc. and Roni Kohn, dated May 14, 2017.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 22, 2017 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
10.9*Executive Employment Agreement with William Horne, dated January 25, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 25, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.10Asset Purchase Agreement between Super Crypto Mining, Inc. and Blockchain Supply & Services Ltd., dated March 8, 2018.  Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.11*Executive Employment Agreement with Milton C. Ault, III, dated June 17, 2018. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 18, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.12Loan and Security Agreement by and between Avalanche International Corp. and Digital Power Corporation dated September 6, 2017 with an effective date as of August 21, 2017. Incorporated by reference to the Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on November 1, 2018 as Exhibit 10.13 thereto.
10.13Convertible Promissory Note dated September 6, 2017 with an effective date as of August 21, 2017 issued by Avalanche International Corp. Incorporated by reference to the Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on November 1, 2018 as Exhibit 10.14 thereto.
10.14Common Stock Purchase Warrant dated September 6, 2017 with an effective date as of August 21, 2017 Avalanche International Corp. Incorporated by reference to the Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on November 1, 2018 as Exhibit 10.15 thereto.
10.15Purchase Order, dated March 14, 2018. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 8, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.16*Executive Employment Agreement with Henry Nisser dated April 12, 2019. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 16, 2018 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.172018 Stock Incentive Plan.  Incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A filed on November 19, 2018 as Appendix B thereto.
10.18Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, dated May 13, 2019. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 20, 2019 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.
10.19Form of Guarantee, dated May 10, 2019. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 20, 2019 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
10.20Amendment to MTIX Limited Purchase Order Number 2121. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 25, 2020 as Exhibit 10.2 thereto.
10.21Amendment No. 2 to At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement, dated March 5, 2021, with Ascendiant Capital Markets, LLC. Incorporated by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 5, 2021 as Exhibit 10.1 thereto.

101.INS

Exhibit
Number

Description
21***List of subsidiaries.
23.1***Consent of Marcum LLP.
23.2***Consent of Ziv Haft, BDO member firm.
31.1***Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)
31.2***Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)
32.1****Certification of Chief Executive and Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code
101.INS***XBRL Instance Document‡

Document

101.SCH

101.SCH***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document‡

Document

101.CAL

101.CAL***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document‡

Document

101.DEF

101.DEF***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document‡

Document

101.LAB

101.LAB***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document‡

Document

101.PRE

101.PRE***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document‡

Document

 

Footnotes to Exhibit Index

*Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
**Confidential treatment is being sought for this agreement, which has been filed separately with the SEC. The confidential portions of this Exhibit have been omitted and are marked by asterisks.
***Filed herewith.
****Furnished herewith.
ITEM 16.FORM 10–K SUMMARY.

None.

 

     XBRL information is furnished and not filed for purposeSIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Sections 11 and 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 1813 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is not subject to liability under those sections, is not part of any registration statement or prospectus to which it relates and is not incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference into any registration statement, prospectus or other document.

*Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.


SIGNATURES

           In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the registrantRegistrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

Dated:  April 10, 201715, 2021

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

By:

/s/ Amos Kohn

William B. Horne

Amos Kohn

William B. Horne

President and

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

By: /s/ Uri Friedlander

V.P of Finance

By:
/s/ Kenneth S. Cragun

Kenneth S. Cragun
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

In accordance withPursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following personpersons on behalf of the registrantRegistrant and in the capacities indicated.

 

April 15, 2021/s/ Milton C. Ault, III
Milton C. Ault, III            

Milton “Todd” Ault, III, Executive Chairman of the Board

April 15, 2021/s/ William B. Horne
William B. Horne, Chief Executive Officer and Director
April 15, 2021/s/ Henry Nisser
Henry Nisser, President, General Counsel and Director
April 15, 2021/s/ Howard Ash
Howard Ash, Director
April 15, 2021/s/ Robert O. Smith
Robert O. Smith, Director
April 15, 2021/s/ Mordechai Rosenberg
Mordechai Rosenberg, Director
April 15, 2021/s/ Jeffrey A. Bentz
Jeffrey A. Bentz, Director
April 15, 2021/s/ Jodi Brichan
Jodi Brichan, Director
ITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

/s/ Amos Kohn      AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Amos Kohn, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director

/s/ Kristine Ault

Kristine Ault, Director

/s/ William Horne

William Horne, Director

/s/ Moti Rosenberg

Moti Rosenberg, Director

/s/ Robert O. Smith

Robert O. Smith, Director


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATEDINDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2016 AND 2015

INDEX

 

Page

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms

Firm – Marcum LLP

A-47 and A-48

F-2 - F-3

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm – Ziv Haft.

F-4 - F-5
Consolidated Balance Sheets

as of December 31, 2020 and 2019

A-49F-6 - A-50

F-7

Consolidated Statements of Operations

and Comprehensive Loss for the Years Ended December 31, 2020 and 2019

A-51

F-8

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss

A-52

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity

for the Years Ended December 31, 2020 and 2019

A-53

F-9 - F-10

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

for the Years Ended December 31, 2020 and 2019

A-54

F-11 - F-12

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

A-55F-13 - A-78

F-64

 


 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

TheTo the Shareholders and Board of Directors of

Ault Global Holdings, Inc. and Shareholders ofSubsidiaries

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheetsheets of Digital Power Corporation (the "Company"Ault Global Holdings, Inc. (formerly known as DPW Holdings, Inc.) and subsidiarySubsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2015,2020 and 2019, the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, shareholders'changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the year then ended. These financial statements are the responsibilityeach of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriatetwo years in the circumstances, but not forperiod ended December 31, 2020, and the purposes of expressing an opinion onrelated notes (collectively referred to as the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

“financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company and subsidiary atas of December 31, 2015,2020 and 2019, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for year theneach of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2020, in conformity with U.S.accounting principles generally accepted accounting principles.

/s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER

Tel-Aviv, Israel

KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER

March 30, 2016

A Member of Ernst & Young Global


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Toin the Audit CommitteeUnited States of the

Board of Directors and Shareholders

Of Digital Power Corporation and Subsidiary.America.

 

We have auditeddid not audit the accompanyingDecember 31, 2020 and 2019 financial statements of Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary, which statements reflect 18 percent and 28 percent of the total consolidated balance sheet of Digital Power Corporation and Subsidiary (the “Company”)assets as of December 31, 2016,2020 and the related2019, respectively and 39 percent and 33 percent of total consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive loss, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flowsrevenues for the year then ended. years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd., is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

Basis for Opinion

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

 

We conducted our auditaudits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the auditaudits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit includes considerationAs part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.  An audit also includes

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

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

Description of the Matter

As described in Notes 3 and 10 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has made investments in Avalanche International Corp. (“AVLP”), a related party controlled by Philou Ventures, LLC, which is an entity affiliated with the Company by common ownership through Milton C. Ault, III who is the Company’s Executive Chairman of the Board. These investments include convertible notes with a net carrying amount of approximately $9.9 million, warrants to purchase up to 22.5 million shares of common stock with a carrying amount of approximately $4.9 million and 999,175 shares of common stock with a carrying amount of approximately $500,000. The aggregate carrying amount of these investments amounted to approximately $15.3 million at December 31, 2020 and required management to make subjective and complex judgments relating to the fair value of these securities and credit risk with respect to the convertible notes. Changes in these estimates, including conditions that affect credit risk, could have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

We identified the Company’s investments in AVLP as a critical audit matter because that entity has undertaken a plan to commercialize a new textile manufacturing technology. The Company also has entered into an agreement with AVLP to provide contract manufacturing services relating the production of this machinery. Management exercised significant judgment in determining the carrying amounts of the AVLP notes and warrants including the application of fair value measurements and evaluating credit risk. The Company exercised these judgments within the context of AVLP being a related party that is both a debtor to the Company and customer with a trade relationship. Management used both a market and income approach to quantify the carrying amount of the convertible notes, including credit risk. Significant assumptions used by management in applying the market approach include the fair value of AVLP’s common stock adjusted for a lack of marketability discount and the time value of money based on management’s expectation as to when there may be a liquidity event which could affect the timing of a settlement of the convertible notes. The income approach included the use of a discounted cash flow analysis with assumptions regarding forecasted revenues, operating margins and a risk-adjusted discount rate to compute the net present value of such cash flows. The AVLP common stock purchase warrants were valued using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with subjective inputs including the fair value of AVLP’s common stock adjusted for lack of marketability discount as described herein, risk free interest rates and expected volatility.

How We Addressed the Matter in Our Audit

The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included the following:

(i)Gaining an understating of the Company’s internal control and processes used to develop fair value estimates,
(ii)Reading relevant agreements,
(iii)Confirming balances due to the Company with AVLP’s management,
(iv)Reviewing information provided to us about AVLP’s historical sources and uses of cash as a means of evaluating its revenue and expense forecast and the attainability of its business plan,
(v)Interviewing AVLP’s management regarding the status and expectations regarding its business plan,
(vi)Comparing the fair value of AVLP’s common stock to public quotes, and
(vii)Utilizing a valuation specialist to assist the engagement team with the following:

·Evaluating the reasonableness of the lack of marketability discount used by management to quantify the carrying amount of the convertible notes using the market approach and as input to the Black-Scholes option pricing model,
·Evaluating the reasonableness of the risk free interest and volatility rates used by management as input to the Black-Scholes option pricing model,
·Testing the mathematical accuracy of the discounted cash flow analysis,
·Assessing the reasonableness of the revenue and expense assumptions and their consistency with other audit evidence, and
·Evaluating the appropriateness of the discount rate used in the cash flow forecast discounted cash flow analysis.

/s/ Marcum llp

 

Marcum llp

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2016.

New York, NY

April 15, 2021

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Management of

ENERTEC SYSTEMS 2001 LTD

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of ENERTEC SYSTEMS 2001 LTD ("the company") as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the related statements of comprehensive loss, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2020, and the related notes (collectively, the financial statements). In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidatedfinancial position of Digital Power Corporation and Subsidiary,the Company as of December 31, 2016,2020 and 2019, and the consolidatedresults of its operations and its cash flows for each of the year thentwo years in the period ended December 31, 2020, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

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

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

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

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the United Statesconsolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Estimation of America.total contract costs to be incurred for fixed-price long-term contract revenue

As discussed in Note 2 to the financial statements, almost all company revenue's recognized under long-term contracts for the year ended December 31, 2020. For those long-term contracts that are fixed-price in nature, the Company recognizes revenue over time based on the ratio of (1) actual contract costs incurred to date to (2) the Company’s estimate of total contract costs to be incurred. We identified the evaluation of the estimate of total contract costs to be incurred for fixed-price long-term contracts as a critical audit matter. In particular, evaluating the Company’s judgments regarding the amount of time and budget to complete the contracts, including the assessment of the nature and complexity of the work to be performed, involved a high degree of subjective judgment.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included the following. We tested the estimates of total contract costs to be incurred, including the assessment of the nature and complexity of the work to be performed. We evaluated factors including the value and stage of completion and selected a sample of customer contracts to challenge the Company’s assumptions underlying the estimate of total contract costs to be incurred. We examined the sampled contracts to evaluate the Company’s identification of performance obligations and the determined method for measuring contract progress. We compared the Company’s original or prior period estimate of total contract costs to be incurred to the actual costs incurred for the finished contracts to assess the Company’s ability to accurately estimate costs. We interviewed the Company to evaluate progress to date, the estimate of remaining costs to be incurred, and factors impacting the amount of time and cost to complete the sampled contracts, including the assessment of the nature and complexity of the work to be performed.

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2012.

 

 

/s/ Ziv Haft.
Ziv Haft.
Certified Public Accountants (Isr.)
BDO Member Firm

Marcum llp

New York, NY
April 10, 2017

 


Tel-Aviv, Israel

April 15, 2021

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARYSUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

U.S. dollars in thousands

  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
       
ASSETS        
CURRENT ASSETS        
Cash and cash equivalents $18,679,848  $483,383 
Marketable equity securities  2,562,983   639,647 
Accounts receivable  3,852,033   2,438,254 
Accounts and other receivable, related party  1,196,379   1,196,379 
Accrued revenue  1,695,905   2,226,570 
Inventories, net  3,373,851   2,481,511 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets  2,988,080   1,324,161 
Current assets held for sale  -   281,352 
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS  34,349,079   11,071,257 
Intangible assets, net  4,390,388   3,206,988 
Goodwill  9,645,686   8,100,947 
Property and equipment, net  2,122,730   1,787,393 
Right-of-use assets  4,317,778   4,177,590 
Investments - related party  10,668,470   6,540,720 
Investments in derivative liabilities and common stock - related parties  6,139,391   2,128,224 
Equity investments in private companies  261,767   261,767 
Investment in limited partnership  1,869,000   1,969,000 
Loans receivable  750,174   795,481 
Other investments, related parties  802,500   832,500 
Other assets  326,419   275,273 
Noncurrent assets held for sale  -   1,603,268 
TOTAL ASSETS $75,643,382  $42,750,408 
         
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY        
         
CURRENT LIABILITIES        
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $10,579,501  $14,284,563 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses, related party  35,687   64,604 
Operating lease liability, current  524,326   484,819 
Advances on future receipts  -   2,210,392 
Short term advances, related party  -   1,409,331 
Revolving credit facility  125,188   221,705 
Notes payable, net  4,048,009   6,137,015 
Notes payable, related parties  187,818   169,153 
Convertible notes payable  -   2,100,990 
Convertible notes payable, related party  400,000   - 
Warrant liability  4,192,052   9,364 
Other current liabilities  1,789,825   1,535,846 
Current liabilities held for sale  -   1,593,550 
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES  21,882,406   30,221,332 

 

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

996

 

 

$

1,241

 

Accounts receivable, net

 

 

1,439

 

 

 

1,240

 

Accounts receivable – related party

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

Inventories, net

 

 

1,122

 

 

 

1,542

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

285

 

 

 

187

 

Total current assets

 

 

3,842

 

 

 

4,287

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

570

 

 

 

709

 

Investments, - related parties, net of original issue discount of $45 and $0, respectively.

 

 

1,036

 

 

 

90

 

Deposits

 

 

24

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

$

5,472

 

 

$

5,099

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATIONAULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARYSUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (continued)

U.S. dollars in thousands

  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
       
LONG TERM LIABILITIES        
Operating lease liability, non-current  3,854,573   3,726,493 
Notes payable  336,500   482,624 
Notes payable, related parties  51,537   115,164 
Convertible notes payable  386,283   304,773 
Noncurrent liabilities held for sale  -   951,072 
TOTAL LIABILITIES  26,511,299   35,801,458 
         
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES        
         
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY        
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, $25.00 stated value per share,  7   7 
   $0.001 par value – 1,000,000 shares authorized; 7,040 shares        
   issued and outstanding at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively        
   (redemption amount and liquidation preference of $176,000        
   as of December 31, 2020 and 2019)        
Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, $10 stated value per share,  125   125 
   share, $0.001 par value – 500,000 shares authorized; 125,000 shares issued        
   and outstanding at December 31, 2020 and 2019 (liquidation        
   preference of $1,250,000 at December 31, 2020 and 2019)        
Class A Common Stock, $0.001 par value – 500,000,000 shares authorized;  27,754   3,318 
  27,753,562 and 3,318,390 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2020        
   and 2019, respectively        
Class B Common Stock, $0.001 par value – 25,000,000 shares authorized;  -   - 
 nil shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2020 and 2019        
Additional paid-in capital  171,397,199   101,099,347 
Accumulated deficit  (121,396,715)  (88,650,465)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

  

(1,717,934

)  (5,511,624)
TOTAL AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY  48,310,436   6,940,708 
Non-controlling interest  

821,647

   8,242 
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY  49,132,083   6,948,950 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $75,643,382  $42,750,408 

 

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

1,231

 

 

$

937

 

Note payable – related party

 

 

250

 

 

 

-

 

Advances from customers and deferred revenues

 

 

-

 

 

 

211

 

Other current liabilities

 

 

398

 

 

 

480

 

Total current liabilities

 

 

1,879

 

 

 

1,628

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Convertible notes – related party, net of unamortized issuance discount of $497

 

 

34

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

 

 

1,913

 

 

 

1,628

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMMITMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, no par value, - 500,000 shares authorized; 0 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Preferred Stock, no par value – 1,500,000 shares authorized; 0 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Common Stock, no par value – 30,000,000 shares authorized; 7,677,637 and 6,775,971 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Additional paid-in-capital

 

 

16,537

 

 

 

14,965

 

Accumulated deficit

 

 

(12,158

)

 

 

(11,036

)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

 

(820

)

 

 

(458

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total stockholder’s equity

 

 

3,559

 

 

 

3,471

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

$

5,472

 

 

$

5,099

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

  For the Year Ended 
  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Revenue $23,628,859  $21,057,509 
Revenue, cryptocurrency mining  -   641,745 
Revenue, lending activities  242,418   662,740 
Total revenue  23,871,277   22,361,994 
Cost of revenue  16,356,741   19,302,647 
Gross profit  7,514,536   3,059,347 
Operating expenses        
Engineering and product development  1,848,866   1,861,103 
Selling and marketing  1,177,321   1,409,996 
General and administrative  12,526,855   15,524,180 
Impairment of property and equipment  -   4,315,856 
Impairment loss on goodwill and intangible assets  -   651,645 
(Benefit) provision for credit losses  (2,000,000)  4,000,000 
Gain on digital currency  (5,033)  (5,515)
Total operating expenses  13,548,009   27,757,265 
Loss from continuing operations  (6,033,473)  (24,697,918)
Other income (expenses)        
Interest income  104,869   3,351,226 
Interest expense  (9,648,820)  (7,261,857)
Change in fair value of marketable equity securities  919,083   (596,242)
Loss on extinguishment of debt  (18,706,488)  (966,134)
Loss on issuance of warrants  -   (1,763,481)
Change in fair value of warrant liability  (48,842)  1,124,953 
Total other expenses, net  (27,380,198)  (6,111,535)
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes  (33,413,671)  (30,809,453)
Income tax benefit  23,794   108,293 
Net loss from continuing operations  (33,389,877)  (30,701,160)
Net gain (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes  661,248   (2,244,668)
Net loss  (32,728,629)  (32,945,828)
Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest  -   32,416 
Net loss attributable to Ault Global Holdings  (32,728,629)  (32,913,412)
Preferred dividends  (17,621)  (15,938)
Net loss available to common stockholders $(32,746,250) $(32,929,350)
         
Basic and diluted net loss per common share:        
Continuing operations $(3.48) $(21.41)
Discontinued operations  0.07   (1.57)
Net loss per common share $(3.41) $(22.97)
Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted  9,606,493   1,433,464 
Comprehensive loss        
Loss available to common stockholders $(32,746,250) $(32,929,350)
Other comprehensive income (loss)        
Foreign currency translation adjustment  

481,596

   341,774 
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative securities of related party  3,312,094   (1,950,875)
Other comprehensive income (loss)  

3,793,690

   (1,609,101)
Total comprehensive loss $

(28,952,560

) $(34,538,451)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

                    Accumulated       
  Series A & B        Additional     Other     Total 
  Preferred Stock  Common Stock  Paid-In  Accumulated  Comprehensive  Non-Controlling  Stockholders' 
  Shares  Amount  Shares  Amount  Capital  Deficit  Income (Loss)  Interest  Equity 
                            
BALANCES, January 1, 2019  126,434  $126   100,910  $101  $77,647,544  $(55,721,115) $(3,902,523) $40,658  $18,064,791 
                                     
Stock based compensation:                                    
Options              754,752            754,752 
Common stock        69,375   69   338,550            338,619 
Issuance of common stock and warrants for
cash
        2,011,005   2,012   10,951,731            10,953,743 
Issuance of common stock in payment of                                    
  accrued liabilities        66,740   66   175,311            175,377 
Issuance of common stock for conversion                                    
 of debt        370,473   370   4,735,925            4,736,295 
Issuance of common stock upon exercise                                    
 of warrants        699,887   700   6,620,325            6,621,025 
Issuance of Series A preferred stock for cash  5,606   6         140,144            140,150 
Beneficial conversion feature in connection                                    
 with convertible notes              821,452            821,452 
Fair value of warrants issued in connection                                    
 with convertible notes               200,518            200,518 
Cash for exchange fees and other financing
costs
              (1,445,255)           (1,445,255)
Loss on debt extinguishment              158,350            158,350 
Comprehensive loss:                                    
Net loss                  (32,913,412)        (32,913,412)
Preferred dividends                 (15,938)        (15,938)
Net unrealized loss on derivatives                                    
  in related party                    (1,950,875)     (1,950,875)
Foreign currency translation adjustments                    341,774      341,774 
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest                       (32,416)  (32,416)
                                ��    
BALANCES, December 31, 2019  132,040  $132   3,318,390  $3,318  $101,099,347  $(88,650,465) $(5,511,624) $8,242  $6,948,950 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral partabove Consolidated Statements of these consolidated financial statements.Stockholders’ Equity reflects first and second reverse stock splits effective March 14, 2019 and August 5, 2019, respectively. See Note 1 for further information.

 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATIONAULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARYSUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except per share data)CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

7,596

 

 

$

7,766

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of revenues

 

 

4,890

 

 

 

5,053

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

 

 

2,706

 

 

 

2,713

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Engineering and product development

 

 

709

 

 

 

894

 

Selling and marketing

 

 

916

 

 

 

1,195

 

General and administrative

 

 

2,300

 

 

 

1,627

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

3,925

 

 

 

3,716

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating loss

 

 

(1,219

)

 

 

(1,003

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income and expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Impairment of investment – related party

 

 

-

 

 

 

(110

)

Other income, net

 

 

77

 

 

 

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total other income and (expenses)

 

 

77

 

 

 

(94

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss before income tax benefits

 

 

(1,142

)

 

 

(1,097

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefit for income taxes

 

 

20

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(1,122

)

 

$

(1,096

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss per common share – Basic and diluted

 

$

(0.16

)

 

$

(0.16

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average shares of common stock – Basic and diluted

 

 

6,917

 

 

 

6,776

 

                    Accumulated       
  Series A & B        Additional     Other     Total 
  Preferred Stock  Common Stock  Paid-In  Accumulated  Comprehensive  Non-Controlling  Stockholders' 
  Shares  Amount  Shares  Amount  Capital  Deficit  Income (Loss)  Interest  Equity 
                            
BALANCES, January 1, 2020  132,040  $132   3,318,390  $3,318  $101,099,347  $(88,650,465) $(5,511,624) $8,242  $6,948,950 
Stock based compensation:                                    
Options              80,351            80,351 
Common stock        102,500   102   182,473            182,575 
Issuance of common stock for cash        12,582,000   12,582   39,965,768            39,978,350 
Issuance of common stock in payment of                                    
  short term advances, related party        660,667   661   739,287            739,948 
Issuance of common stock in payment of                                    
  accrued liabilities        229,898   230   712,915            713,145 
Issuance of common stock for conversion                                    
 of debt        10,046,012   10,047   24,770,673            24,780,720 
Issuance of common stock upon exercise                                    
 of warrants        814,095   814   876,361            877,175 
Issuance of Enertec warrants                       813,405   813,405 
Beneficial conversion feature in connection                                    
 with convertible notes              81,621            81,621 
Fair value of warrants issued in connection                                    
 with convertible notes              4,540,238            4,540,238 
Cash for exchange fees and other financing costs              (1,651,835)           (1,651,835)
Comprehensive loss:                                    
Net loss                 (32,728,629)        (32,728,629)
Preferred dividends                 (17,621)        (17,621)
Net unrealized gain on derivatives                                    
  in related party                    3,312,094      3,312,094 
Foreign currency translation adjustments                    481,596      481,596 
                                     
BALANCES, December 31, 2020  132,040  $132   27,753,562  $27,754  $171,397,199  $(121,396,715)$(1,717,934 $821,647  $49,132,083 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral partabove Consolidated Statements of these consolidated financial statements.Stockholders’ Equity reflects first and second reverse stock splits effective March 14, 2019 and August 5, 2019, respectively. See Note 1 for further information.

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

U.S. dollars in thousands

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Loss

 

$

(1,122

)

 

$

(1,096

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other comprehensive loss:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in foreign currency translation adjustment

 

 

(362

)

 

 

(100

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive loss

 

$

(1,484

)

 

$

(1,196

)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATIONAULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

For the Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share data)

 

 

Common

stock

 

 

Additional

paid-in-

capital

 

 

Accumulated

Deficit

 

 

Other

Accumulated

comprehensive

loss

 

 

Total

stockholders’ 

equity

 

Balance at January 1, 2015

 

 

6,775,971

 

 

$

14,739

 

 

$

(9,940

)

 

$

(358

)

 

$

4,441

 

Stock-based compensation – options

 

 

-

 

 

 

226

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

226

 

Comprehensive loss:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,096

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,096

)

Foreign currency translation loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(100

)

 

 

(100

)

Balance at December 31, 2015

 

 

6,775,971

 

 

 

14,965

 

 

 

(11,036

)

 

 

(458

)

 

 

3,471

 

Stock-based compensation – options

 

 

-

 

 

 

520

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

520

 

Stock-based compensation - warrants

 

 

-

 

 

 

23

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

23

 

Issuance of common stock and warrants for cash

 

 

901,666

 

 

 

541

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

541

 

Beneficial conversion feature in connection with convertible notes

 

 

-

 

 

 

329

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

329

 

Fair value warrants issued in connection with convertible notes

 

 

-

 

 

 

159

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

159

 

Comprehensive loss:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,122

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,122

)

Foreign currency translation loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(362

)

 

 

(362

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2016

 

 

7,677,637

 

 

$

16,537

 

 

$

(12,158

)

 

$

(820

)

 

$

3,559

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARYSUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

U.S. dollars in thousands

  For the Year Ended December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Cash flows from operating activities:        
Net loss $(32,728,629) $(32,945,828)
Less: Net gain (loss) from discontinued operations  661,248   (2,244,668)
Net loss from continuing operations  (33,389,877)  (30,701,160)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) operating activities:        
Depreciation  391,597   2,570,511 
Amortization  335,776   502,656 
Amortization of right-of-use assets  (140,188)  2,123,519 
Interest expense – debt discount  7,251,365   3,709,993 
Loss on extinguish debt  18,706,488    
Fair value in excess of proceeds upon issuance of warrants     1,763,481 
Change in fair value of warrant liability  48,842   (1,124,953)
Accretion of original issue discount on notes receivable – related party  21,998   (2,277,777)
Accretion of original issue discount on notes receivable  (61,834)  (90,489)
Increase in accrued interest on notes receivable – related party  (1,337)  (1,021,158)
Stock-based compensation  

1,105,688

   1,583,991 
Impairment of property and equipment     4,315,856 
Impairment of intangible assets     170,692 
Impairment of goodwill     480,953 
Realized losses on other investments  39,141    
Realized (gains) losses on sale of digital currencies     (524)
Realized (gains) losses on sale of marketable securities  (75,346)  (95,340)
Realized (gains) losses on equity securities in private companies     215,813 
Unrealized (gains) losses on marketable equity securities  (796,009)  (258,905)
Unrealized (gains) losses on equity securities – related party  (297,943)  276,450 
Unrealized (gains) losses on equity securities  73,079   363,996 
Provision for loan losses  (2,000,000)  5,550,000 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:        
Accounts receivable  (641,087)  (540,820)
Accounts receivable, related party     2,691,275 
Accrued revenue  644,729   (737,960)
Digital currencies  (14)  (647,260)
Inventories  183,331   824,703 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets  (1,612,731)  (1,018,466)
Other assets  (92,753)  (221,264)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses  (364,195)  3,682,230 
Accounts payable, related parties  (28,917)  6,852 
Other current liabilities  (649,615)  (269,831)
Lease liabilities  167,587   (2,089,797)
Net cash used in continuing operating activities  

(11,182,225

)  (10,262,733)
Net cash provided by discontinued operating activities  1,246   82,179 
Net cash used in operating activities  

(11,180,979

)  (10,180,554)
         
Cash flows from investing activities:        
Purchase of property and equipment  (582,092)  (189,302)
Acquisition of Relec, net of cash acquired  (3,627,534)  - 
Investments – related party  (2,118,411)  (1,600,164)
Investments in warrants and common stock - related party  (354,370)  (1,130,567)
Purchase of marketable equity securities  (1,425,341)  - 
Sales of marketable equity securities  373,360   580,721 
Proceeds from loans receivable  139,933    
Investments in debt and equity securities  (188,760)  (511,743)
         
Net cash used in investing activities $(7,783,215) $(2,851,055)

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(1,122

)

 

$

(1,096

)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

161

 

 

 

214

 

Amortization of debt discount

 

 

34

 

 

 

-

 

Accretion of discount on note receivable

 

 

(2

)

 

 

-

 

Provision for bad debts

 

 

32

 

 

 

-

 

Reserve for inventory

 

 

68

 

 

 

9

 

Impairment of investment – related party

 

 

-

 

 

 

110

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

543

 

 

 

226

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

(311

)

 

 

288

 

Accounts receivable – related party

 

 

77

 

 

 

-

 

Inventories

 

 

209

 

 

 

57

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

(119

)

 

 

(14

)

Other assets

 

 

(11

)

 

 

-

 

Accounts payable

 

 

322

 

 

 

(258

)

Advances from customers and deferred revenues

 

 

(181

)

 

 

-

 

Other current liabilities

 

 

(58

)

 

 

(65

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used in operating activities

 

 

(358

)

 

 

(529

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment

 

 

(85

)

 

 

(306

)

Proceeds from sale of investment – related party

 

 

90

 

 

 

-

 

Investments – related party

 

 

(1,034

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

 

(1,029

)

 

 

(306

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from sales of common stock and warrants

 

 

541

 

 

 

-

 

Net proceeds from issuances of convertible notes – related party

 

 

488

 

 

 

-

 

Proceeds from short term loan – related party

 

 

250

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

 

1,279

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents

 

 

(137

)

 

 

(34

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents

 

 

(245

)

 

 

(869

)

Cash and cash equivalents - Beginning of the year

 

 

1,241

 

 

 

2,110

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents - End of the year

 

$

996

 

 

$

1,241

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

December 31, 2016 and 2015

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

NOTE 1: GENERALAULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (continued)

 

  For the Year Ended December 31, 
  2020  2019 
       
Cash flows from financing activities:        
Gross proceeds from sales of common stock and warrants $39,978,350  $17,028,605 
Proceeds from issuance of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock     131,741 
Financing cost in connection with sales of equity securities  (1,651,835)  (1,445,255)
Proceeds from warrant exercises  52,826   127,000 
Proceeds from convertible notes payable  100,000   500,000 
Proceeds from notes payable  9,722,434   5,230,418 
Proceeds from short-term advances  570,000    
Payments on short-term advances  (570,000)   
Proceeds from short-term advances – related party  653,124   1,305,570 
Payments on short-term advances – related party  (322,507)   
Payments on notes payable  (8,783,976)  (2,117,252)
Payments on convertible notes payable     (7,069,547)
Proceeds from advances on future receipts     941,804 
Payments on advances on future receipts  (2,350,639)  (1,590,925)
Payments of preferred dividends  (17,621)  (15,938)
Payments on revolving credit facilities, net  (96,517)  (101,018)
         
Net cash provided by financing activities  37,283,639   12,925,203 
         
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents  

(122,980

)  (179,830)
         
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  18,196,465   (286,236)
         
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period  483,383   769,619 
         
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $18,679,848  $483,383 

Digital Power Corporation ("DPC") was incorporated in 1969, under the General Corporation Law of the State of California. DPC and Digital Power Limited ("DPL"), a wholly owned subsidiary, located in the United Kingdom (DPC and DPL collectively the “Company”), are currently engaged in the design, manufacture and sale of switching power supplies and converters. The Company has two reportable geographic segments - North America (sales through DPC) and Europe (sales through DPL).

  For the Year Ended December 31, 
  2020  2019 
         
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:        
Cash paid during the period for interest $658,042  $1,867,925 
         
Non-cash investing and financing activities:        
Cancellation of convertible note payable into shares of common stock $24,780,720  $4,736,295 
Payment of accounts payable with digital currency $  $647,213 
Issuance of common stock in payment of accrued liability $1,537,494  $175,377 
Cancellation of short-term advances, related party into shares        
of common stock $739,948  $ 
Conversion of loans receivable for marketable equity securities $  $485,000 
Conversion of loans receivable for investments in warrants and        
common stock - related party $  $181,483 
Issuance of notes payable and convertible notes payable in        
payment of accrued expenses $420,000  $ 
Cancellation of notes payable into short term advances, related parties $  $30,000 
Issuance of common stock on conversion of note $600,000  $- 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

 

NOTE 2: LIQUIDITY, FINANCIAL CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT’S PLANS1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

 

Ault Global Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Ault Global” or the “Company”), formerly known as DPW Holdings, Inc., was incorporated in September 2017. The Company incurredis a netdiversified holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in, among others, the following operating businesses: commercial and defense solutions, commercial lending and advanced textile technology. The Company’s direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries include Gresham Worldwide, Inc. (“GWW”), Coolisys Technologies Corp. (“Coolisys”), Digital Power Corporation, Gresham Power Electronics Ltd. (f/k/a Digital Power Limited) (“Gresham Power”), Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd (“Enertec”), Relec Electronics Ltd., Digital Power Lending, LLC (“DP Lending”), Ault Alliance, Inc. (“Ault Alliance”), and Tansocial LLC (“Tansocial”). The Company also has a controlling interest in Microphase Corporation (“Microphase”) and Ault Alliance has a controlling interest in and Alliance Cloud Services, LLC (“ACS”). The Company has three reportable segments:

·GWW – defense solutions with operations conducted by Microphase, Enertec, Gresham Power and Relec;

·Coolisys – commercial electronics solutions with operations conducted by Digital Power Corporation; and

·Ault Alliance – commercial lending through DP Lending, data center operations through ACS, digital marketing through Tansocial and digital learning.

During March 2020, the Company ceased operations at Digital Farms, Inc. (“Digital Farms”), the Company’s blockchain mining subsidiary, and I.AM, Inc. (“I.AM”). Management determined that the permanent closing of the restaurant operations at I.AM, which owned and operated the Prep Kitchen brand restaurants located in the San Diego area, met the criteria for presentation as discontinued operations. Accordingly, the results of the restaurant operations segment are presented as discontinued operations in our condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss and are excluded from continuing operations for all periods presented.

On March 14, 2019, pursuant to the authorization provided by the Company’s stockholders at a Special Meeting of $1,122 forStockholders, the year endedCompany’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) approved an amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation (the “COI Amendment”) to effectuate a reverse stock split of the of the Company’s issued and outstanding common stock, $0.001 par value per share, (“Common Stock”) by a ratio of one-for-twenty (the “First Stock Split”). At the Company’s 2019 reconvened Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the Company’s stockholders approved a proposal permitting the Board to effectuate a second reverse stock split (the “Second Stock Split”) of the issued and outstanding Common Stock. Thereafter, on July 23, 2019, the Board approved the Second Stock Split with a ratio of one-for-forty. The Second Stock Split did not affect the number of authorized shares of common stock or their par value per share. As a result of the Second Stock Split, each forty shares of common stock issued and outstanding prior to the Second Stock Split were converted into one share of common stock. The Second Stock Split became effective in the State of Delaware on August 5, 2019. All share amounts in these financial statements have been updated to reflect these reverse stock splits.

On January 19, 2021, the Company changed its name from DPW Holdings, Inc., to Ault Global Holdings, Inc. The Name Change was effected through a parent/subsidiary short-form merger pursuant to an agreement and plan of merger dated January 7, 2021. The merger and resulting name change do not affect the rights of security holders of the Company. The Common Stock continues to be listed on the NYSE American and trades under the symbol “DPW”.

2. LIQUIDITY, GOING CONCERN AND MANAGEMENT’S PLANS

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the basis that the Company will continue as a going concern. As of December 31, 20162020, the Company had cash and hadcash equivalents of $18,679,848, an accumulated deficit of $12,158 at December 31, 2016 from having incurred losses since its inception.$121,396,715 and working capital of $12,466,673. The Company had $1,963 of working capital at December 31, 2016has incurred recurring losses and used approximately $358 of cash in its operating activities duringreported losses attributable to Ault Global for the yearyears ended December 31, 2016. The2020 and 2019, of $32,728,629 and $32,913,412, respectively. In the past, the Company has financed its operations principally through issuances of convertible debt, a promissory notenotes and equity securities. During 2020, the Company continued to successfully obtain additional equity and debt financing and in restructured existing debt.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

On September 5, 2016, the Company entered into a rescission agreement with Telkoor Telecom Ltd., a related party entity, pursuant to which the Company sold back its investment of 1,136,666 shares of common stock of Telkoor at its carrying value of $90. (See Note 7).

2020 ATM Offering

On October 21, 2016, the Company issued a 12% convertible secured note in the principal amount of $530 to an existing stockholder of the Company for a net proceeds of $488 (See Note 10).

On November 15, 2016, the Company sold 901,666 units for aggregate proceeds of $541, each unit consisted of a share of common stock and a warrant to purchase one share of common stock (See Note 10).

On December 29, 2016,2, 2020, the Company entered into an agreementAt-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “2020 Sales Agreement”) with MCKEA Holdings,Ascendiant Capital Markets, LLC (“MCKEA”to sell shares of Common Stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $8,975,000 from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “2020 ATM Offering”), a related party, for a demand promissory note in. On December 1, 2020, the Company filed an amendment to the prospectus supplement with the SEC to increase the amount of $250 bearing interest atcommon stock that may be offered and sold in the rate2020 ATM Offering, as amended under the Sales Agreement to $40,000,000 in the aggregate, inclusive of 6% per annum (See Note 9).

During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company invested $950up to $8,975,000 in Avalanche International Corporation (“AVLP”), a related party entity, through convertible notes with an aggregate face value of $997, additionally, the Company acquired shares of common stock of AVLP for approximately $84 (see Note 7).

In February 2017,previously sold in the Company issued demand promissory notes2020 ATM Offering. The offer and warrants to purchase 333,333sale of shares of common stock at $ 0.70 per share for aggregatefrom the 2020 ATM Offering was made pursuant to the Company’s effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) which became effective on January 11, 2018. Through December 31, 2020, the Company had received gross proceeds of $400. Further in February 2017,$39,978,350 through the holderssale of $400 in demand promissory notes agreed to extinguish their $400 of debt by purchasing 666,66712,582,000 shares of common stock offrom the Company at $0.60 per share (See Note 16).2020 ATM Offering. The 2020 ATM Offering was terminated on December 31, 2020.

 

On March 9, 2017,Impact of Coronavirus on the Company’s Operations

The Company’s business has been disrupted and materially adversely affected by the recent outbreak of COVID-19. As a result of measures imposed by the governments in affected regions, businesses and schools have been suspended due to quarantines intended to contain this outbreak and many people have been forced to work from home in those areas. The spread of COVID-19 from China to other countries has resulted in the Director General of the World Health Organization declaring the outbreak of COVID-19 as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, based on the advice of the Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (2005), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the U.S. issued a warning on February 25, 2020 regarding the likely spread of COVID-19 to the U.S. While the COVID-19 outbreak is no longer in its early stages, international stock markets continue to reflect the uncertainty associated with the slow-down in the American, Israeli and UK economies and the reduced levels of international travel experienced since the beginning of January and the significant volatility in the Dow Industrial Average throughout 2020 was largely attributed to the effects of COVID-19. The Company continues to monitor and assess its business operations and system supports and the impact COVID-19 may have on its results and financial condition, but there can be no assurance that this analysis will enable the Company entered into a preferred stock purchase agreement with Philou Ventures LLC (“Philou”), a related party entity, pursuant to which Philou agreed to invest up to $5,000,000avoid part or all of any impact from the continuing spread of COVID-19 or its consequences, including downturns in business sentiment generally or in the Company’s sectors in particular.

The Company’s operations are located in Alameda County, CA, Orange County, CA, Fairfield County, CT, the United Kingdom, Israel and members of its senior management work in Seattle, WA and New York, NY. The Company throughhas been following the purchaserecommendations of Series B Preferred Stock over a termlocal health authorities to minimize exposure risk for its employees, including the temporary and sporadic closures of 36 months (See Note 13). On March 24, 2017, Philou purchased 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuantits offices and having employees work remotely to the preferred stock purchase agreement in consideration of cancellation of Company debt of $250 dueextent possible, which has to MCKEA. an extent adversely affected their efficiency.

 

On March 15, 2017, Company entered into a subscription agreement with one investor for the sale of 500,000 shares of common stock at $0.60 per share for the aggregate purchase price of $300.Updates by business unit are as follows:

 


·Ault Global’s corporate headquarters, located in Las Vegas, NV, has largely returned to normal operations with adherence to the Governor’s Directives and Declarations. Certain individuals deemed to be high risk may work remotely, as required.

·Ault Global’s finance and accounting office, located in Newport Beach, CA, is primarily working remotely, based on the occupancy and social distancing order from the Orange County Health Officer (http://www.ochealthinfo.com/phs/about/epidasmt/epi/dip/prevention/novel_coronavirus). The administrative staff has tested the secure remote access systems and technology infrastructure to adjust working arrangements for its employees and believes it has adequate internal communications system and can remain operational with a remote staff.

·Coolisys, located in Milpitas, CA, has largely returned to normal operations with adherence to guidelines published by the Santa Clara Public Health Department. Certain individuals deemed to be high risk may work remotely as required. Coolisys has experienced disruption in its supply chain as a result of the COVID-19 impact on its vendors.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

·Microphase operates a production facility in Connecticut. In March 2020, the Defense Department designated Microphase an “essential” operation of critical infrastructure workers as part of the defense industrial base. To limit the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Microphase implemented a series of protocols to limit access to the facility, heighten sanitization, facilitate social distancing and require face coverings. Microphase has requested that workers limit their travel and exposure to others. All employees, including management, that do not have to be in the facility work remotely whenever possible. Any employees who come in contact or potential contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or who traveled outside the immediate area are quarantined and must provide proof of negative tests before returning to work. Rigorous adherence to these protocols has generally enabled Microphase to operate with minimal disruption.

 

In December 2020, five Microphase employees tested positive for COVID-19. Microphase temporarily shut down its production facility for a week for deep cleaning and to have all employees tested for COVID-19. Since the outbreak disproportionately affected assembly workers, Microphase’s assembly operations remained shut down for three weeks until all assembly workers had at least 2 negative tests. Operations gradually resumed in late December 2020 and the workforce returned to full strength in mid-January 2021.

The disruption to production operations deferred order completion and delayed shipments with a significant decrease in revenue from forecast for December of 2020 and a lingering, but only partial and less substantial, effect on January and February revenue. No customers cancelled orders or imposed penalties for late delivery. Disruption of production added costs from paying employees who could not work and deferred revenue from delayed shipments. However, the entire workforce has remained healthy with heightened precautions and hygiene protocols in place, rendering the outbreak’s impact on production a temporary phenomenon.

Microphase continues to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing, face coverings and heightened sanitizing to keep the workforce safe and healthy. Microphase has strictly limited access to its facility and mandated that all employees minimize exposure to the others. All Microphase employees who can work from home will do so while COVID-19 levels remain high in the surrounding communities. However, some workers may still need to work in proximity to others. Management is working with state and federal authorities to get all employees vaccinated on a priority basis as “essential workers” whom the U.S. Department of Defense (the “DoD”) has officially designated as “critical infrastructure workforce” as part of the “defense industrial base.” Some employees have already received vaccinations and we expect all employees to have both vaccinations by the end of March 2017,2021.

·Gresham Power suspended production operations in its Salisbury, UK facility from mid-March through June 2020 before resuming production until a subsequent shutdown in November 2020. Notwithstanding the current lockdown, production operations have resumed to complete work on order for products critically needed for military operations. However, engineers, back office staff and management have worked from home as much as possible throughout the pandemic period and continue to do so. The pandemic has disrupted production at times and delayed contract actions as well as other customer decision making, which decreased revenue realized in 2020. However, the Company expects that these delays shall only defer orders and that business will rebound strongly with pent up demand in the latter half of 2021.

·Relec, which does not operate any manufacturing or assembly facilities, has not experienced any material COVID-19 related disruptions to date and continues normal operations notwithstanding the lockdown in the United Kingdom. All employees who can work from home do so. Others who must work at the Wareham, UK site to move product or access systems continue to do so under strict safety protocols with face coverings, social distancing and heightened attention to sanitization. The principal impact on Relec’s operations has come from the deferral of some orders and a modest decrease in revenue year-over-year. The Company presently expects business to rebound and resume a steady growth pattern in the third quarter of 2021, although the pandemic may impact this outlook.

·The Israeli government exempted Enertec from pandemic-related lockdown orders to keep production operations open for key projects that impact national security. Approximately 50% of Enertec’s workforce is working remotely.  Enertec incurred additional costs for increased sanitizing costs, personal protective equipment, increased virtual operations, measures to facilitate social distancing and other precautions to avoid the spread of COVID-19. The pandemic also affected Enertec’s customers and supply chain partners, slowing order processing, materials and parts delivery and service order completion. The principal impact on Enertec’s business has come from deferral of customer decisions and order issuance.  With 50% of the population vaccinated as January 31, 2021, Israel now leads the world in COVID-19 vaccine distribution, which should further mitigate risks from COVID-19. The Company presently expects business to rebound and resume substantial growth in second quarter of 2021 as orders increase to address deferred, pent up demand.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

The COVID-19 global pandemic has been unprecedented and unpredictable and is likely to continue to result in significant national and global economic disruption, which may adversely affect the Company’s business. Based on the Company’s current assessment, however, the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million purchase order by MTIX Ltd. (“MTIX")does not expect any material impact on its long-term strategic plans, its operations, or its liquidity due to manufacture, install and service the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (‘MLSE) plasma-laser system (See Note 14).

On March 28, 2017,worldwide spread of the COVID-19 virus. However, the Company issued $270 in demand promissory notes to several investors, thenis actively monitoring this situation and the possible effects on April 5, 2017, the Company canceled these promissory notes by issuing 360,000 shares of common stock at $0.75 per share, in addition, the Company also issued warrants to purchase 180,000 shares of common stock at $0.90 per share to these investors (See Note 16).its financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, and industry.

 

The Company expects to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future and needs raise additional capital to continuebelieves its business development initiatives and to support its working capital requirements. Management believes that the MLSE purchase order of $50 million will be a source of revenue and generatingcurrent cash flows. Management believes that the Company has access to capital resources through potential public or private issuance of debt or equity securities. If the Companyon hand is unable to raise additional capital, it may be required to curtail operations and take additional measures to reduce costs, including reducing its workforce, eliminating outside consultants and reducing legal fees in order to conserve its cash in amounts sufficient to sustain operations and meet its obligations.operating and capital requirements for at least the next twelve months from the date these financial statements are issued.

 

Based on the above, management believes that the Company has sufficient capital resources to sustain operations through at least April 10, 2018.

NOTE 3: SUMMARY3. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. in the United States of America (“GAAP”).

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of DPCAult Global Holdings and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, GWW, Coolisys, Digital Power Corporation (a wholly owned subsidiary DPL.of Coolisys), Gresham Power, Enertec, Relec, DP Lending, Ault Alliance, and Digital Farms and its majority-owned subsidiaries, Microphase, I.AM and Alliance Cloud Services. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. In addition, DPC and DPL share certain employees and various costs. Such expenses are principally paid by DPC. Due to the nature of the parent and subsidiary relationship, the individual financial position and operating results of DPC and DPL may be different from those that would have been obtained had they been autonomous.

Use of

Accounting Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements, in conformity with U.S. GAAP, requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions. The Company's management believes that the estimates, judgments and assumptions used are reasonable based upon information available at the time they are made. These estimates, judgments and assumptions can affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Key estimates include acquisition accounting, fair value of certain financial instruments, reservereserves for trade receivables and inventories, carrying amounts of investments, accruals of certain liabilities including product warranties, useful lives and the recoverability of long-lived assets, impairment analysis of intangibles and goodwill, and deferred income taxes and related valuation allowance.

Impairment of long-lived assets:

Management reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to undiscounted expected future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by comparing the carrying amount of the assets to their fair value. During the first quarter of 2020, based upon the deteriorating business conditions for restaurants in the San Diego County as a result of the spread of COVID-19 and the decline in projected cash flows over the life of the restaurant long-lived assets, the Company performed an undiscounted cash flow test to determine if the restaurant equipment and right-of-use assets were impaired. The undiscounted cash flows were less than the carrying amount of the Company’s restaurant equipment and right-of-use assets and therefore, the carrying amount of the assets were compared to the fair value of the assets, and the Company determined that there were impairment charges to be recorded on the restaurant long-lived assets. Impairment charges for the year ended December 31, 2020 related to restaurant equipment were in an amount equal to the cost of the Company’s restaurant equipment, net of depreciation of $504,802 and the impairment related to the right-of-use assets attributed to the discontinued restaurant operations was the full carrying amount of $1,020,514. The restaurant-related impairment charges are included as a component of net loss from discontinued operations (see Note 4).

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

Revenue Recognition

The Company recognizes revenue under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The core principle of the new revenue standard is that a company should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The following five steps are applied to achieve that core principle:

·Step 1: Identify the contract with the customer,
·Step 2: Identify the performance obligations in the contract,
·Step 3: Determine the transaction price,
·Step 4: Allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and
·Step 5: Recognize revenue when the company satisfies a performance obligation.

The Company’s disaggregated revenues consist of the following for the year ended December 31, 2020:

  Year ended December 31, 2020 
  GWW  Coolisys  Ault Alliance  Total 
             
Primary Geographical Markets                
North America $6,717,843  $4,500,175  $242,418  $11,460,436 
Europe  1,878,782   450,053   -   2,328,835 
Middle East  9,273,158   -   -   9,273,158 
Other  342,938   465,910   -   808,848 
  $18,212,721  $5,416,138  $242,418  $23,871,277 
                 
Major Goods                
RF/Microwave Filters $4,330,091  $  $  $4,330,091 
Detector logarithmic video amplifiers  473,150         473,150 
Power Supply Units  2,655,723   5,416,138      8,071,861 
Power Supply Systems  1,481,922         1,481,922 
Healthcare diagnostic systems  1,011,574         1,011,574 
Defense systems  8,260,261         8,260,261 
Lending activities        242,418   242,418 
  $18,212,721  $5,416,138  $242,418  $23,871,277 
                 
Timing of Revenue Recognition                
Goods transferred at a point in time $8,940,886  $5,416,138  $242,418  $14,599,442 
Services transferred over time  9,271,835         9,271,835 
  $18,212,721  $5,416,138  $242,418  $23,871,277 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

The Company’s disaggregated revenues consist of the following for the year ended December 31, 2019:

  Year ended December 31, 2019 
  GWW  Coolisys  Ault Alliance  Total 
             
Primary Geographical Markets                
North America $4,342,565  $5,276,096  $1,304,485  $10,923,146 
Europe  1,672,489   5,767      1,678,256 
Middle East  8,659,675   21,348      8,681,023 
Other  557,114   522,455      1,079,569 
  $15,231,843  $5,825,666  $1,304,485  $22,361,994 
                 
Major Goods                
RF/Microwave filters $2,245,748  $  $  $2,245,748 
Detector logarithmic video amplifiers  558,155         558,155 
Power supply units  1,656,162   5,825,666      7,481,828 
Power supply systems  1,920,594         1,920,594 
Healthcare diagnostic systems  1,711,050         1,711,050 
Defense systems  7,140,134         7,140,134 
Lending activities        662,740   662,740 
Digital currency mining        641,745   641,745 
  $15,231,843  $5,825,666  $1,304,485  $22,361,994 
                 
Timing of Revenue Recognition                
Goods transferred at a point in time $6,243,758  $5,825,666  $1,304,485  $13,373,909 
Services transferred over time  8,988,085         8,988,085 
  $15,231,843  $5,825,666  $1,304,485  $22,361,994 

Sales of Products

The Company generates revenues from the sale of its products through a direct and indirect sales force. The Company’s performance obligations to deliver products are satisfied at the point in time when products are received by the customer, which is when the customer obtains control over the goods. The Company provides standard assurance warranties, which are not separately priced, that the products function as intended. The Company primarily receives fixed consideration for sales of product. Some of the Company’s contracts with distributors include stock rotation rights after six months for slow moving inventory, which represents variable consideration. The Company uses an expected value method to estimate variable consideration and constrains revenue for estimated stock rotations until it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur. To date, returns have been insignificant. The Company’s customers generally pay within 30 days from the receipt of a valid invoice.

Because the Company’s product sales agreements have an expected duration of one year or less, the Company has elected to adopt the practical expedient in ASC 606-10-50-14(a) of not disclosing information about its remaining performance obligations.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

Manufacturing Services

The Company provides manufacturing services in exchange primarily for fixed fees; however, the initial two MLSE units are subject to variable pricing under the $50 million purchase order from MTIX. Under the terms of the MLSE purchase order, the Company shall be entitled to cost plus $100,000 for the manufacture of the first two MLSE units. The Company has determined that the costs of manufacturing the MLSE units will decline over time because of a learning curve which will result in a greater amount of revenue being recognized for these initial two MLSE units.

For manufacturing services, which include revenues generated by Enertec and in certain instances revenues generated by Gresham Power, the Company’s performance obligation for manufacturing services is satisfied over time as the Company creates or enhances an asset based on criteria that are unique to the customer and that the customer controls as the asset is created or enhanced. Generally, the Company recognizes revenue based upon proportional performance over time using a cost to cost method which measures progress based on the costs incurred to total expected costs in satisfying its performance obligation. This method provides a depiction of the progress in providing the manufacturing service because there is a direct relationship between the costs incurred by the Company and the transfer of the manufacturing service to the customer. Manufacturing services that are recognized based upon the proportional performance method are included in the above table as services transferred over time and to the extent the customer has not been invoiced for these revenues, as accrued revenue in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Revisions to the Company’s estimates may result in increases or decreases to revenues and income and are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the periods in which they are first identified.

The Company has elected the practical expedient to not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component to the extent that the period between when the Company transfers its promised good or service to the customer and when the customer pays in one year or less.

The aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to the performance obligation that is partially unsatisfied as of December 31, 2020, for the MLSE units was approximately $48 million, representing 24 MLSE units. Based on our expectations regarding funding of the production process and our experience building the first machines, the Company expects to recognize the remaining revenue related to the partially unsatisfied performance obligation over the next three years. The Company will be paid in installments for this performance obligation over the estimated period that the remaining revenue is recognized.

Lending Activities and Trading Activities

Ault Alliance, through DP Lending, generates revenue from lending activities primarily through interest, origination fees and late/other fees. Interest income on these products is calculated based on the contractual interest rate and recorded as interest income as earned. The origination fees or original issue discounts are recognized over the life of the loan using the effective interest method.

Financial instruments utilized in trading activities are carried at fair value. Fair value is generally based on quoted market prices for the same or similar assets and liabilities. If these market prices are not available, fair values are estimated based on dealer quotes, pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques where the determination of fair value may require significant management judgment or estimation. Realized gains and losses are recorded on a trade-date basis. Realized and unrealized gains and losses are recognized in revenue from lending activities.

Blockchain Mining

The Company has entered into digital asset mining pools by executing contracts with the mining pool operators to provide computing power to the mining pool. The contracts are terminable at any time by either party and the Company’s enforceable right to compensation only begins when the Company provides computing power to the mining pool operator. In exchange for providing computing power, the Company is entitled to a fractional share of the fixed digital currency award the mining pool operator receives (less digital asset transaction fees to the mining pool operator which are recorded as a component of cost of revenues), for successfully adding a block to the blockchain. The Company’s factional share is based on the proportion of computing power the Company contributed to the mining pool operator to the total computing power contributed by all mining pool participants in solving the current algorithm.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

Providing computing power in digital asset transaction verification services is an output of the Company’s ordinary activities. The provision of providing such computing power is the only performance obligation in the Company’s contracts with mining pool operators. The transaction consideration the Company receives, if any, is noncash consideration, which the Company measures at fair value on the date received, which is not materially different than the fair value at contract inception or the time the Company has earned the award from the pools. The consideration is all variable. Because it is not probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue will not occur, the consideration is constrained until the mining pool operator successfully places a block (by being the first to solve an algorithm) and the Company receives confirmation of the consideration it will receive, at which time revenue is recognized. There is no significant financing component in these transactions.

Fair value of the digital currency award received is determined using the market rate of the related digital currency at the time of receipt.

There is currently no specific definitive guidance under GAAP or alternative accounting framework for the accounting for digital currencies recognized as revenue or held, and management has exercised significant judgment in determining the appropriate accounting treatment. In the event authoritative guidance is enacted by the FASB, the Company may be required to change its policies, which could have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position and results from operations.

Expenses associated with running the cryptocurrency mining business, such as equipment deprecation and electricity cost are recorded as a component of cost of revenues.

Historically, the Company used digital assets for debt reduction, capital purchases, consulting fees, data center costs and other operating expenses.

During March 2020, the Company ceased operations at Digital Farms, the Company’s blockchain mining subsidiary

 

Foreign Currency Translation

A substantial portion of the Company’sCompany’s revenues are generated in U.S. dollars ("(“U.S. dollar"dollar”). In addition, a substantial portion of the Company’s costs are incurred in U.S. dollars. Company management has determined that the U.S. dollar is the functional currency of the primary economic environment in which it operates.

 

Accordingly, monetary accounts maintained in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are re-measured into U.S. dollars in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board ((“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Codification ((“ASC”) No. 830, Foreign Currency Matters (" (“ASC No. 830"830”). All transaction gains and losses from the re-measurement of monetary balance sheet items are reflected in the statements of operations as financial income or expenses as appropriate.


 

The financial statements of the DPL,Gresham Power and Enertec, whose functional currency hascurrencies have been determined to be itstheir local currency,currencies, the British Pound ((“GBP”) and the Israeli Shekel (“ILS”), respectively, have been translated into U.S. dollars in accordance with ASC No. 830. All balance sheet accounts have been translated using the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Statement of operations amounts have been translated using the average exchange rate in effect for the reporting period. The resulting translation adjustments are reported as other comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) and accumulated comprehensive income (loss) in statement of changes in stockholders' equity.equity (deficit).

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist of cash and cash equivalents. The Company’sCompany’s cash is maintained in checking accounts, money market funds and certificates of deposits with reputable financial institutions. These balances may, at times, exceed the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits. The Company has cash and cash equivalents of $736$884,859 and $868$288,428 at December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, respectively, in the United Kingdom ((“U.K”). and $18,874 and $47,062, respectively, in Israel. The Company has not experienced any losses on deposits of cash and cash equivalents.

Marketable Securities

The Company classifies its investments in shares of common stock of Telkoor and AVLP in accordance with ASC No. 320, Investment in Debt and Equity Securities (“ASC No. 320”) and ASC No. 325, Investment – Other (“ASC No. 325”). Marketable securities classified as “available-for-sale securities” and carried at fair value, based on quoted market prices. Unrealized gains and losses are reported in a separate component of stockholder’s equity in “accumulated other comprehensive loss” in equity. When evaluating the investment for other-than-temporary impairment, the Company reviews factors such as the length of time and extent to which fair value has been below cost basis, the financial condition of the issuer and any changes thereto, and the Company’s intent to sell, or whether it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, the investment before recovery of the investment’s amortized cost basis.

Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values (i.e., non-marketable equity securities) and are not required to be accounted for under the equity method are typically carried at cost (i.e., cost method investments), as described in ASC No. 325-20.

The Company classifies its investment in debt securities of AVLP in accordance with ASC No. 320 and ASC No. 825. Investment in convertible promissory notes in AVLP is classified as available-for-sale securities and is carried at fair value based on quoted market prices. Unrealized gains and losses are reported in a separate component of stockholder’s equity in “accumulated other comprehensive loss” in equity. When evaluating the investment for other-than-temporary impairment, the Company reviews factors such as the length of time and extent to which fair value has been below cost basis, the financial condition of the issuer and any changes thereto, and the Company’s intent to sell, or whether it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, the investment before recovery of the investment’s amortized cost basis. Additionally, the investment in debt securities of AVLP qualifies for application of fair value option in accordance with ASC No. 825.

 

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The Company’sCompany’s receivables are recorded when billed and represent claims against third parties that will be settled in cash. The carrying amount of the Company’s receivables, net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, represents their estimated net realizable value. The Company individually reviews all accounts receivable balances and based upon an assessment of current creditworthiness, estimates the portion, if any, of the balance that will not be collected. The Company estimates the allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical collection trends, age of outstanding receivables and existing economic conditions. If events or changes in circumstances indicate that a specific receivable balance may be impaired, further consideration is given to the collectability of those balances and the allowance is adjusted accordingly. A customer’s receivable balance is considered past-due based on its contractual terms. Past-due receivable balances are written-off when the Company’s internal collection efforts have been unsuccessful in collecting the amount due. Based on an assessment as of December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, of the collectability of invoices, accounts receivable are presented net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $32$4,415 and nil, respectively$5,000, respectively.

 


Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or marketnet realizable value. Inventory write-offs are provided to cover risks arising from slow-moving items or technological obsolescence.

 

Cost of inventories is determined as follows:

Raw materials, parts and supplies - using the "first-in, first-out"“first-in, first-out” method.

 

Work-in-progress and finished products - on the basis of direct manufacturing costs with the addition of indirect manufacturing costs.

 

The Company periodically assesses its inventories valuation in respect of obsolete and slow movingslow-moving items by reviewing revenue forecasts and technological obsolescence. When inventories on hand exceed the foreseeable demand or become obsolete, the value of excess inventory, which at the time of the review was not expected to be sold, is written off.

 

During the years ended December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, the Company recordeddid not record inventory write-offs of $84 and $9, respectively, within the cost of revenue.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

Property and Equipment, Net

Property and equipment as well as an intangible asset are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization.depreciation. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Depreciation and amortization areis calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, at the following annual rates:

 

 

 

Useful lives (in years)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Computer, software and related equipment

 

 

3

-

5

 

Office furniture and equipment

 

 

5

-

10

 

Leasehold improvements

 

 

Over the term of the lease of the life of the asset, whichever is shorter

 

Useful lives (in years)
Computer, software and related equipment3 - 5
Office furniture and equipment5 - 10
Leasehold improvementsOver the term of the lease or the life of the asset, whichever is shorter.

Goodwill

The Company evaluates its goodwill for impairment in accordance with ASC 350, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other. Goodwill is recorded when the purchase price paid for an acquisition exceeds the estimated fair value of the net identified tangible and intangible assets acquired.

The Company tests the recorded amount of goodwill for impairment on an annual basis on December 31 of each fiscal year or more frequently if there are indicators that the carrying amount of the goodwill exceeds its carried value. At December 31, 2020, the Company had three reporting units. The Company performed a qualitative assessment and concluded that goodwill at the Company’s Coolisys subsidiary was impaired by a total of $480,953 based upon an assessment as of December 31, 2019. The Company shows no impairment at December 31, 2020. Goodwill impairment charges for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 related to the Company’s discontinued operations were nil and $265,252, respectively.

Intangible Assets

The Company acquired amortizable intangibles assets as part of four asset purchase agreements consisting of customer relationships and non-compete agreements. The Company also has the trade names and trademarks associated with the acquisitions of Microphase, I.AM and Relec which were determined to have an indefinite life. The customer relationships and non-compete agreements, definite lived intangible assets, are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives as follows:

Useful lives (in years)
Customer relationships5 - 14
Non-competition agreements3
Domain name and other intangible assets3

The Company reviews intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable. Factors that the Company considers in deciding when to perform an impairment review include significant underperformance of the business in relation to expectations, significant negative industry or economic trends, and significant changes or planned changes in the use of the assets. If an impairment review is performed to evaluate a long-lived asset for recoverability, the Company compares forecasts of undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the long-lived asset to its carrying value. An impairment loss would be recognized when estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of an asset are less than its carrying amount. The impairment loss would be based on the excess of the carrying value of the impaired asset over its fair value, determined based on discounted cash flows. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company recorded an impairment loss from continuing operations of nil and $170,692, respectively. Impairment charges for intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 related to the Company’s discontinued operations were nil and $610,000, respectively.

 

Long-Lived Assets

The long-lived assets of the Company are reviewed for impairment in accordance with ASC No. 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

Management reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to theundiscounted expected future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets.asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by comparing the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceedsto their fair value. During the first quarter of 2020, based upon the deteriorating business conditions for restaurants in the San Diego County as result of the spread of COVID-19 and the decline in projected cash flows over the life of the restaurant long-lived assets, the Company performed an undiscounted cash flow test to determine if the restaurant equipment and right-of-use assets were impaired. The undiscounted cash flows were less than the carrying amount of the Company’s restaurant equipment and right-of-use assets and therefore, the carrying amount of the assets were compared to the fair value of the assets, and the Company determined that there were impairment charges to be recorded on the restaurant long-lived assets. As ofImpairment charges for the year ended December 31, 20162020 related to restaurant equipment were in an amount equal to the cost of the Company’s restaurant equipment, net of depreciation of $504,802 and 2015, nothe impairment related to the right-of-use assets attributed to the discontinued restaurant operations was the full carrying amount of $1,020,514. The restaurant-related impairment charges were necessary.

Revenue Recognition

The Company generates revenuesare included as a component of net loss from the sale of its products through a direct and indirect sales force.

Revenues from products are recognized in accordance with ASC No. 605, Revenue Recognition, when the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the seller's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, no further obligation exists and collectability is reasonably assured.

Generally, the Company does not grant a right of return. However, certain distributors are allowed, in the six months after the initial stock purchase, to rotate stock that has not been sold for other products. Revenues subject to stock rotation rights are deferred until the products are sold to the end customer or until the rotation rights expire.


Service revenues are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the service agreement. Service revenues are immaterial in proportion to the Company's revenues.discontinued operations (see Note 4).

 

Warranty

The Company offers a warranty period for all of its manufactured products. Warranty periods range from one to two years depending on the product. The Company estimates the costs that may be incurred under its warranty and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time product revenue is recognized. Factors that affect the Company's warranty liability include the number of units sold, historical rates of warranty claims and cost per claim. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liability and adjusts the amountsamount, as necessary.

As of December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, the Company hasCompany’s accrued warranty liability of $86was $90,640 and $94,$80,412, respectively.

  

Income Taxes

The Company determines its income taxes under the asset and liability method in accordance with FASB ASC No. 740, Income Taxes, which requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are based on the differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the fiscal year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent management concludes it is more likely than not that the assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the fiscal years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income in the period that includes the enactment date.

 

The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC No. 740-10-25. ASC No. 740-10-25 addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under ASC No. 740-10-25, the Company may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit to be recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that ishas a greater than fifty percent likelylikelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. To the extent that the final tax outcome of these matters is different than the amount recorded, such differences impact income tax expense in the period in which such determination is made. Interest and penalties, if any, related to accrued liabilities for potential tax assessments are included in income tax expense. ASC No. 740-10-25 also requires management to evaluate tax positions taken by the Company and recognize a liability if the Company has taken uncertain tax positions that more likely than not would not be sustained upon examination by applicable taxing authorities. Management of the Company has evaluated tax positions taken by the Company and has concluded that as of December 31, 20162020 and 2015,2019, there are no uncertain tax positions taken, or expected to be taken, that would require recognition of a liability that would require disclosure in the financial statements.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

Common Stock Purchase Warrants and Other Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company classifies Common Stockcommon stock purchase warrants and other free standing derivative financial instruments as equity if the contracts (i) require physical settlement or net-share settlement or (ii) give the Company a choice of net-cash settlement or settlement in its own shares (physical settlement or net-share settlement). The Company classifies any contracts that (i) require net-cash settlement (including a requirement to net cash settle the contract if an event occurs and if that event is outside the control of the Company), (ii) give the counterparty a choice of net-cash settlement or settlement in shares (physical settlement or net-share settlement), or (iii) contain reset provisions as either an asset or a liability. The Company assesses classification of its freestanding derivatives at each reporting date to determine whether a change in classification between assets and liabilities is required. The Company determined that certain freestanding derivatives, which principally consist of issuance of warrants to purchase shares of common stock in connection with convertible notes units and to employers of the Company, satisfy the criteria for classification as equity instruments as these warrants do not contain cash settlement features or variable settlement provision that cause them to not be indexed to the Company’s own stock.


Stock-Based Compensation

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718 "Compensation – Stock Compensation" ("ASC 718").

ASC 718 requires companies to estimate the fair value of equity-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as an expense over the requisite service periods in the Company's consolidated statements of operations.

The Company estimates the fair value of stock options granted under ASC 718 using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model that uses the following assumptions.

Expected volatility is based on historical volatility that is representative of future volatility over the expected term of the options. The expected term of options granted was determined based on the simplified method, which is calculated as the midpoint between the vesting date and the end of the contractual term of the option. The Company uses the simplified method as it has determined that sufficient data is not available to develop an estimate of the expected option term based upon historical participant behavior.  The risk free interest rate is based on the yield of U.S. Treasury bonds with equivalent terms. The dividend yield is based on the Company's historical and future expectation of dividends payouts. The Company has not paid cash dividends historically and has no plans to pay cash dividends in the foreseeable future.

The Company recognizes share-based compensation expenses for the value of its awards based on the straight line method over the requisite service period of each of the awards. 

During the years 2016 and 2015, the Company estimated the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Weighted average fair value

 

 

 

$0.46

 

 

 

 

 

$0.44

 

 

Dividend yield

 

 

 

0%

 

 

 

 

 

0%

 

 

Expected volatility

 

 

97.7%

-

98.2%

 

 

 

87.6%

-

88.3%

 

Risk-free interest rate

 

 

1.26%

-

1.77%

 

 

 

1.60%

-

1.91%

 

Expected life (years)

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

 

5.5

-

7

 

Convertible Instruments

The Company accounts for hybrid contracts that feature conversion options in accordance with applicable GAAP. ASC No. 815 Derivatives and Hedging Activities, (“ASC 815”) requires companies to bifurcate conversion options from their host instruments and account for them as freestanding derivative financial instruments according to certain criteria. The criteria includes circumstances in which (a) the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative instrument are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract, (b) the hybrid instrument that embodies both the embedded derivative instrument and the host contract is not re-measured at fair value under otherwise applicable GAAP with changes in fair value reported in earnings as they occur and (c) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative instrument would be considered a derivative instrument.


Conversion options that contain variable settlement features such as provisions to adjust the conversion price upon subsequent issuances of equity or equity linked securities at exercise prices more favorable than that featured in the hybrid contract generally result in their bifurcation from the host instrument.

The Company accounts for convertible instruments, when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should not be bifurcated from their host instruments, in accordance with ASC 470-20 “Debt with Conversion and Other Options” (“ASC 470-20”). Under ASC 470-20 the Company records, when necessary, discounts to convertible notes for the intrinsic value of conversion options embedded in debt instruments based upon the differences between the fair value of the underlying common stock at the commitment date of the note transaction and the effective conversion price embedded in the note. The Company accounts for convertible instruments (when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should be bifurcated from their host instruments) in accordance with ASC 815.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, long term deposits and trade receivables.

Cash and cash equivalents are invested in banks in the U.S. and in the UK. Such deposits in the United States may be in excess of insured limits and are not insured in other jurisdictions.

Trade receivables of the Company and its subsidiary are mainly derived from sales to customers located primarily in the U.S. and in Europe. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and to date has not experienced any material losses. An allowance for doubtful accounts is determined with respect to those amounts that the Company and its subsidiary have determined to be doubtful of collection

Comprehensive Loss

The Company reports comprehensive loss in accordance with ASC 220, "Comprehensive Income". This Statement establishes standards for the reporting and presentation of comprehensive loss and its components in a full set of general purpose financial statements. Comprehensive loss generally represents all changes in equity during the period except those resulting from investments by, or distributions to, stockholders. The Company determined that its items of other comprehensive loss relates to changes in foreign currency translation adjustments.

Fair value of Financial Instruments

In accordance with ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures”, fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received for the sale of an as set or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date.

The guidance also establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability and are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about the factors that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability. The guidance establishes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

Level 1:

Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2:

Other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

Level 3:

Unobservable inputs reflecting the reporting entity’s own assumptions.

The carrying amounts of financial instruments carried at cost, including cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables and trade receivable – related party, investments, notes receivable, trade payables and trade payables – related party approximate their fair value due to the short-term maturities of such instruments.


As of December 31, 2016, the fair value of the Company's investments was $1,036 ($90 as of December 31, 2015). Investments as of December 31, 2016 were concentrated in AVLP. The Company's investment in AVLP is comprised of convertible promissory notes of $952, net of unamortized discount and marketable equity securities of $84 which are classified as available-for-sale investments. For investments in marketable equity securities, the Company took into consideration general market conditions, the duration and extent to which the fair value is below cost, and the Company’s ability and intent to hold the investment for a sufficient period of time to allow for recovery of value in the foreseeable future. As a result of this analysis, the Company has determined that its cost basis in Avalanche equitable securities approximates the current fair value

Consistent with the guidance at ASC 835, the Company’s presumption is that the fair value of its convertible promissory notes in Avalanche have a present value equivalent to the cash proceeds exchanged. Further, the discount shall be reported in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the face amount of the convertible promissory notes. Thus, the Company has determined that the amortized cost of its convertible promissory notes approximates fair value and are subject to a periodic impairment review. The interest income, including amortization of the discount arising at acquisition, for the convertible promissory notes are included in earnings. In the future, if the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis, the Company shall recognize other-than-temporary impairments in other comprehensive income (loss).

The categorization of a financial instrument within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

The following table sets forth the Company’s financial instruments that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy:

 

 

Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2016

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

Investments – AVLP – a related party controlled by Philou, a majority shareholder of the Company

 

$

1,036

 

 

$

84

 

 

$

952

 

 

$

-

 

 

 

Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2015

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

Investment – Telkoor – a related party, the Company's majority shareholder until September 22, 2016

 

$

90

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

90

 

As of December 31, 2015, the Company valued the investment in Telkoor for $90.

The following table sets forth a summary of the changes in the fair value of the Company’s Level 3 financial instruments for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, which are treated as investments, as follows:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Balance at the beginning of year

 

$

90

 

 

$

207

 

Impairment

 

 

-

 

 

 

(110

)

Effect of exchange rate

 

 

-

 

 

 

(7

)

Disposition of investments

 

 

(90

)

 

 

-

 

Balance at the end of year

 

$

-

 

 

$

90

 


Debt Discounts

The Company accounts for debt discount according to ASC No. 470-20, Debt with Conversion and Other Options. Debt discounts are amortized through periodic charges to interest expense over the term of the related financial instrument using the effective interest method. During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded amortization of debt discounts of $2 and nil, respectively

Net Loss per Share

Net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. The calculation of the basic and diluted earnings per share is the same for all periods presented, as the effect of the potential common stock equivalents is anti-dilutive due to the Company’s net loss position for all periods presented. The Company has included 317,460 warrants, with an exercise price of $.01, in its earnings per share calculation for the year ended December 31, 2016. Anti-dilutive securities consisted of the following at December 31:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Stock options

 

 

2,256,000

 

 

 

1,146,000

 

Warrants

 

 

1,431,666

 

 

 

-

 

Convertible notes

 

 

963,636

 

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

4,651,302

 

 

 

1,146,000

 

Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Standards

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

In October 2016, the FASB issued updated guidance related to the recognition of income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory. This guidance will be effective for the first quarter of tax year 2018; however, early adoption is permitted. The Company is evaluating the impact that this guidance will have its consolidated financial statements.

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230)” (“ASU 2016-15”), which seeks to reduce the existing diversity in practice in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. For public entities, Update 2016-15 becomes effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of Update 2016-15 and assessing the impact, if any, it may have on its consolidated financial position, results of operations, cash flows or financial statement disclosures.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718)” (“ASU 2016-09”), which seeks to simplify accounting for share-based payment transactions including income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and the classification on the statement of cash flows.  For public entities, Update 2016-09 becomes effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted.   The Company has not yet determined the effect that ASU 2016-09 will have on its consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.

In March 2016, the FASB issued guidance that involves several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. This guidance will be effective for the first quarter of tax year 2017; however, early adoption is permitted. The Company is evaluating the impact that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.


In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases”. The new standard provides guidance intended to improve financial reporting about leasing transaction. The ASU affects all companies that lease assets such as real estate, airplanes and manufacturing equipment. The ASU will require companies that lease assets to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by those leases. The new standard will take effect for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. The Company has not determined the potential effects of this ASU on its consolidated financial statements.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, "Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Liabilities"(“ASU 2016-01”).  ASU 2016-01 requires equity investments (excluding equity method investments and investments that are consolidated) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. Equity investments that do not have a readily determinable fair value may be measured at cost, adjusted for impairment and observable price changes. The ASU also simplifies the impairment assessment of equity investments, eliminates the disclosure of the assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at cost on the balance sheet and requires the exit price to be used when measuring fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes. Under ASU 2016-01, changes in fair value (resulting from instrument-specific credit risk) will be presented separately in other comprehensive income for liabilities measured using the fair value option and financial assets and liabilities will be presented separately by measurement category and type either on the balance sheet or in the financial statement disclosures. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company has not yet determined the effect that ASU 2016-01 will have on its consolidated financial position, results of operations, or financial statement disclosures.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, "Presentation of Financial Statements-Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40): Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern." The amendments is this ASU are intended to provide guidance on the responsibility of reporting entity management. Specifically, this ASU provides guidance to management related to evaluating whether there is substantial doubt about the reporting entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and about related financial statement note disclosures. Although the presumption that a reporting entity will continue to operate as a going concern is fundamental to the preparation of financial statements, prior to the issuance of this ASU, there was no guidance in U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) related to the concept. Due to the lack of guidance in U.S. GAAP, practitioners and their clients often faced challenges in determining whether, when, and how a reporting entity should disclose the relevant information in its financial statements. As a result, the FASB issued this guidance to require management evaluation and potential financial statement disclosures. This ASU will be effective for financial statements with periods ending after December 15, 2016. The Company adopted the ASU during the fiscal year and corrected in this report.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)” (“ASU 2014-09”). ASU 2014-09 supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC Topic 605, “Revenue Recognition” and some cost guidance included in ASC Subtopic 605-35, "Revenue Recognition - Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts.” The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is that revenue is recognized when the transfer of goods or services to customers occurs in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 requires the disclosure of sufficient information to enable readers of the Company’s financial statements to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts. ASU 2014-09 also requires disclosure of information regarding significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. ASU 2014-09 provides two methods of retrospective application. The first method would require the Company to apply ASU 2014-09 to each prior reporting period presented. The second method would require the Company to retrospectively apply ASU 2014-09 with the cumulative effect recognized at the date of initial application. ASU 2014-09 will be effective for the Company beginning in fiscal 2019 as a result of ASU 2015-14, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date," which was issued by the FASB in August 2015 and extended the original effective date by one year. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting the available methodologies of ASU 2014-09 and 2015-14 upon its financial statements in future reporting periods. The Company has not yet selected a transition method. The Company is in the process of evaluating the new standard against its existing accounting policies, including the timing of revenue recognition, and its contracts with customers to determine the effect the guidance will have on its financial statements and what changes to systems and controls may be warranted.


There have been four new ASUs issued amending certain aspects of ASU 2014-09, ASU 2016-08, "Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross Versus Net)," was issued in March, 2016 to clarify certain aspects of the principal versus agent guidance in ASU 2014-09. In addition, ASU 2016-10, "Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing," issued in April 2016, amends other sections of ASU 2014-09 including clarifying guidance related to identifying performance obligations and licensing implementation. ASU 2016-12, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Narrow Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients" provides amendments and practical expedients to the guidance in ASU 2014-09 in the areas of assessing collectability, presentation of sales taxes received from customers, noncash consideration, contract modification and clarification of using the full retrospective approach to adopt ASU 2014-09. Finally, ASU 2016-20, “Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” was issued in December 2016, and provides elections regarding the disclosures required for remaining performance obligations in certain cases and also makes other technical corrections and improvements to the standard. With its evaluation of the impact of ASU 2014-09, the Company will also consider the impact on its financial statements related to the updated guidance provided by these four new ASUs.

The Company has considered all other recently issued accounting standards and does not believe the adoption of such standards will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 4: INVENTORIES

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, inventories consist of:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Raw materials, parts and supplies

 

$

271

 

 

$

336

 

Work-in-progress

 

 

238

 

 

 

191

 

Finished products

 

 

613

 

 

 

1,015

 

Total inventories

 

$

1,122

 

 

$

1,542

 

NOTE 5: PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, property and equipment consist of:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Computer, software and related equipment

 

$

1,652

 

 

$

1,726

 

Office furniture and equipment

 

 

240

 

 

 

257

 

Leasehold improvements

 

 

699

 

 

 

771

 

 

 

 

2,591

 

 

 

2,754

 

Accumulated depreciation and amortization

 

 

(2,021

)

 

 

(2,045

)

Property and equipment, net

 

$

570

 

 

$

709

 

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, depreciation and amortization expense amounted to $161 and $214, respectively.

NOTE 6: INTANGIBLE ASSET, NET

On August 25, 2010, the Company entered into an agreement with Telkoor Power Supplies Ltd. ("TPS"), a subsidiary of Telkoor, pursuant to which, (i) TPS sold, assigned and conveyed to the Company all of its rights, title and interest in and to the intellectual property associated with the Compact Peripheral Component Interface 600 W AC/DC power supply series (the “Assets” or “IP”) and (ii) the Company granted to TPS an irrevocable license to sell the  Assets  in Israel on an exclusive basis. The IP was purchased in order to decrease lead time and costs of the production process. In consideration for the purchase of the IP, the Company paid TPS an amount of $480. The consideration for the right to sell the Assets in Israel will be paid to the Company as a yearly royalty fee of 15% of TPS's direct production costs of sales.


TPS will provide the Company training and technical support, if necessary, for a period of 60 months in order to enable the Company to properly and effectively use the IP to manufacture the Assets.  In accordance with the agreement, the consideration for the IP may be reduced over a four-year period in the event that annual sales for each year between 2011 and 2014 are less than a fixed threshold of units on an annual basis based on an offset value per unit as described in the agreement. If there is a shortfall in sale of units in one annual period and in the subsequent period the Company sells more than the fixed unit threshold, this difference will be offset from any reduced consideration in any annual periods between 2011 and 2014. As a result of lower than anticipated sales by the Company of the Compact Peripheral Component Interface 600 W AC/DC power supply series (CPCI 600W) through 2013, the Company amended its agreement with Telkoor (effective January 1, 2014 for the duration of the original agreement or until the shortfall of CPCI 600W product sales will be offset) to include additional products in addition to the original CPCI 600W product. The Company will not be required to make any royalty payments to Telkoor under the manufacturing agreement with Telkoor until the shortfall of CPCI 600W product sales will be offset. As of December 31 2015 the remaining shortfall balance was $86. During the year 2016, the Company paid royalties to Advice, Telkoor refunded $40 from this amount by services to the Company and the balance cancelled with the recession agreement. (See Note 7)

The useful life of the IP has been determined to be five years and the amortization method is the straight-line method, as management considers this method as the most appropriate.

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning balance of IP

 

$

480

 

 

$

480

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated amortization

 

 

(480

)

 

 

(480

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ending balance of IP

 

$

-

 

 

$

-

 

Amortization expense was $0 and $66 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

NOTE 7: INVESTMENTS – RELATED PARTIES

Avalanche International Corporation (AVLP)

Investments in AVLP at December 31, 2016 consist of:

Balance at January 1, 2016

 

$

-

 

Investment in convertible promissory notes of AVLP - Gross

 

 

997

 

Original issue discount

 

 

(47

)

Accretion of discount

 

 

2

 

Investment in convertible promissory note of AVLP - Net

 

 

952

 

Investment in common stock of AVLP

 

 

84

 

Balance at December 31, 2016

 

$

1,036

 

During the last quarter of 2016, the Company made certain strategic investments in AVLP, a related party controlled by Philou, an existing majority stockholder. The Company’s investments in AVLP consist of convertible promissory notes bearing interest of 12% per annum purchased at a 5% discount and shares of common stock of AVLP.


On October 5, 2016 and November 30, 2016, the Company entered into two 12% Convertible Promissory Note agreements ("Notes Receivable") in the principal amount of $525 each, net of a 5% original issue discount ($25 each) with interest payable at 12% per annum. All principal and accrued interest shall be due for payment on or before two years from the origination dates of each note. At any time after six months, the Company has the right, at its option, to convert all or any portion of the principal and accrued interest into shares of common stock of AVLP at $0.74536 per share, subject to adjustment. The principal amount of each note is convertible into 704,357 shares common stock of AVLP.

During the last quarter of 2016, the Company invested $950 pursuant to Notes Receivable and remaining balance of $50 was invested on February 17, 2017.

.

The original issue discount of $50 on the Notes Receivable is being amortized as interest income through the maturity date using the interest rate method. The original issue discount on the Note Receivable is amortized as interest income through the maturity date using the interest method, the Company recorded $2 interest income for the discount accretion.

As of December 31, 2016 the Company recorded contractual interest receivables of $13.

On February 22, 2017, subsequent to year-end, AVLP issued the Company a third $525 12% Convertible Promissory Note (the “Third Note”) with original issue discount of 5%. During the period from February 22, 2017 to April 5, 2017, the Company funded $457 pursuant to this Third Note.

The Company has classified the all the above noted Notes, it holds in AVLP, as Available-for-Sale securities, subject to the guidance in ASC 320. The Convertible Promissory Notes qualify for application of the Fair Value Option Subsections of Subtopic 320-10 and 825-10.

At December 31, 2016, the closing market price of AVLP’s common Stock was $0.45. Subsequent to year-end, the closing market price of AVLP’s common stock was in the range of $0.25 and $0.45 and due to the illiquidity and significant volatility of AVLP’s common stock, the Company has determined that its cost basis in AVLP common stock approximates the current fair value.

The Company has concluded that indicators of impairment, including those described in ASC 320-10-35-27, do not currently exist for the Company’s investment in AVLP’s Notes.

In addition the Company purchased at the market 250,900 shares of Avalanche at total cost of $84. The investment is accounted under the fair value -method in accordance with ASC 320-10.

Based upon the closing market price at December 31, 2016, and most recently at March 30, 2017 ($0.30), the Company has concluded that its investment in shares of AVLP common stock is not impaired.

Telkoor Telecom Ltd. (Telkoor)

Investment in Telkoor at December 31, 2016 and 2015 consists of:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Balance at January 1, 2016

 

$

90

 

 

$

207

 

Impaired

 

 

-

 

 

 

(110

)

Exchange rate

 

 

-

 

 

 

(7

)

Disposed/(sold)

 

 

(90

)

 

 

-

 

Balance at December 31, 2016

 

$

-

 

 

$

90

 

On June 16, 2011, the Company acquired 1,136,666 shares of Telkoor, the Company's major shareholder at the time, and an Israeli company listed in the Tel Aviv stock exchange (at such time) for $1,000, which represented 8.8% of the outstanding shares of Telkoor. As a result of this transaction, an existing manufacturing agreement between the Company and Telkoor was updated and extended.


The Company recorded an impairment of its investment in Telkoor of $0 and $110 for the years ended December 31 2016 and 2015, respectively. On September 5, 2016, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”) with Philou, and Telkoor pursuant to which the Philou purchased all of the Telkoor 2,714,610 shares of the common stock invested in the Company, constituting approximately 40.06% of the Company’s then outstanding shares of common stock for a consideration of $1.5 million to Telkoor.

Pursuant to the Agreement, the Company entered into a Rescission Agreement with the Telkoor in order to resolve all financial issues between the parties, including the repurchase by the Seller of 1,136,666 shares of common stock in Seller beneficially owned by the Company for their book value.

The closing of the transactions under the Agreement and the Rescission Agreement occurred on September 22, 2016.

Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values (i.e. non-marketable equity securities) and are not required to be accounted for under the equity method are typically carried at cost (i.e., cost method investments), as described in ASC 325-20. The Company carried its investment in Telkoor's shares at historical cost, net of impairment charges in accordance with ASC 325-20 "Investments in Other".

NOTE 8: OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

Other current liabilities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 consist of:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Accrued payroll and payroll taxes

 

$

128

 

 

$

105

 

Warranty liability

 

 

86

 

 

 

95

 

Other accrued expenses

 

 

184

 

 

 

280

 

Total

 

$

398

 

 

$

480

 

NOTE 9: DEMAND NOTE PAYABLE – RELATED PARTY

On December 29, 2016, the Company entered into an agreement with MCKEA, an entity of which a Board member is the managing member and of which it is the member of the Company's largest shareholder, for a demand promissory note (“Note”) in the amount of $250 bearing interest at the rate of 6% per annum on unpaid principal and shall be due and payable upon demand of payment by MCKEA. Note may be prepaid, in whole or in part, without penalty, at the option of the Company and without the consent of MCKEA. As of December 31, 2016, no interest was accrued on the Note. Subsequent to December 31, 2016, Note was converted in the Company’s preferred stock (See Note 16).

NOTE 10: CONVERTIBLE NOTE – RELATED PARTY

Balance at January 1, 2016

 

$

-

 

Proceeds from convertible note

 

 

530

 

Unamortized debt discounts

 

 

(484

)

Unamortized financing cost

 

 

(12

)

Balance at December 31, 2016

 

$

34

 

On October 21, 2016, the Company, entered into a 12% Convertible Secured Note (“Convertible Note) in the principal amount of $530 and was sold to an existing stockholder of the Company for $500, bearing interest at 12% simple interest on the principal amount, is secured by all the assets of the Company, and is due on October 20, 2019. Interest only payments are due on a quarterly basis and the principal may be converted into shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.55 per share. Subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, the noteholder may convert the principal amount of the Convertible Note at any time into common stock. The conversion price of the Convertible Note is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or other standard anti-dilution events.


The Convertible Note contains standard and customary events of default including, but not limited to failure to make payments when due under the Convertible Note agreement and bankruptcy or insolvency of the Company.

Upon 30 days’ notice, the Company has the right to prepay the Convertible Note. In addition, provided that the closing price for a share of the Company’s common stock exceeds $3.00 per share for 30 consecutive trading days, the Company has the right to compel the noteholder to convert the principal amount into shares of common stock at the contractual conversion price.

As additional consideration, the investor received a three-year warrant to purchase 265,000 shares of common stock each at an exercise price of $0.80 and a three-year warrant to purchase 265,000 shares of common stock each at an exercise price of $0.90 (collectively “Warrants”). Warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date and are subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations. The exercise price of the Warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The Warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. The Warrants has a call feature that permits the Company to force redemption at $0.001 per share in the event the closing price for a share of the Company’s common stock exceeds $3.00 for 30 consecutive trading days.

The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and allocated $159 of the proceeds to additional paid-in capital.

The beneficiary conversion feature (BCF) embedded in the Debenture is accounted for under ASC Topic 470 – Debt. At issuance, the estimated fair value of the BCF totaled $332. The BCF was allocated from the net proceeds of the Debenture after allocating relative fair value of warrants and limited to remaining net proceeds available for BCF. The BCF is recorded as additional debt discount is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the Debenture using the effective interest method. The valuation of the BCF was calculated based on effective conversion price compared with the market price of common stock on the date of issuance of Convertible Note.

The Company recorded total debt discount in the amount of $518 based on the relative fair values of the Warrants of $159, BCF of $329 and original issue discount (OID) of $30. The debt discount is being amortized as non-cash interest expense over the term of the debt. In addition, the Company incurred $13 of debt issuance costs which is also being amortized as non-cash interest expense over the term of the debt. During the year ended December 31, 2016, non-cash interest expense of $34 was recorded as amortization of debt discount and debt financing cost.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company has recorded accrued interest of $12 on Convertible Note obligation. 

NOTE 11: COMMITMENTS

Lease commitments

In November 2012, the Company signed an operating lease agreement for the US headquarters for a period of 7 years with an option to extend for additional 5 years. In September 2009, the Company's subsidiary signed a new agreement for a lease in respect of the UK facility for a period of 15 years with an option to cancel the lease after 10 years on September 2019.

Future non-cancellable rental commitments under operating leases are as follows: 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

2017

 

$

291

 

2018

 

 

295

 

2019

 

 

219

 

2020

 

 

139

 

2021

 

 

139

 

2022 to 2024

 

 

383

 

Total

 

$

1,466

 

Total rent expense for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 was approximately $294 and $299, respectively.


NOTE 12: STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Preferred Stock

There are authorized Preferred stock in the amount of 500,000 shares of Series A cumulative Redeemable Convertible Preferred shares ("Series A"), and an additional 1,500,000 Preferred shares that have been authorized, but the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions on these shares have not been determined. The Company’s Board of Directors is authorized to create a new series of preferred shares and determine the number of shares, as well as the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions granted to or imposed upon any series of preferred shares. As of December 31, 2016, there were no preferred shares issued or outstanding.

Common Stock

Common stock confer upon the holders the rights to receive notice to participate and vote in the general meeting of shareholders of the Company, to receive dividends, if and when declared, and to participate in a distribution of surplus of assets upon liquidation of the Company.

On November 15, 2016, the Company entered into subscription agreements (the “Subscription Agreements”) with nine accredited investors. Pursuant to the terms of the Subscription Agreements, the Company sold 901,666 units (“Units”) at $0.60 for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $541,000. Each unit consists of one share of common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of common stock (the “Warrant Shares”) at an exercise price of $0.80.

According to the agreement, the Company registered all of the shares of common stock then issued as part of the Units and Warrant Shares then issued and issuable upon exercise of the Warrant Shares. The Subscription Agreement provides that, until November 15, 2017, Investors who purchased at least $100,000 have the right to participate in the purchase of up to 50% of the securities offered by the Company in any future financing transactions, with limited exceptions.

The Warrants entitle the holders to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 901,666 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.80 per share for a period of three years. The Warrant Shares are exercisable upon the six month anniversary of the issuance date. The exercise price of the Warrant Shares is subject to adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The Warrant Shares may be exercised for cash or, upon the failure to maintain an effective registration statement, on a cashless basis.

The Warrant Shares do not require a net cash-settlement or provide the holder with a choice of net-cash settlement. The Warrant Shares also do not contain a variable settlement provision. Accordingly, the Company classified the Warrant Shares as equity instruments.

Stock Option Plans

Under the Company's Digital Power 2016 and 2012 (As Amended) ("Incentive Share Option Plan"), options may be granted to employees, officers, consultants, service providers and directors of the Company.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company authorized according to the Incentive Share Option Plan the grant of options to officers, management, other key employees and others of up to 5,372,630 options for the Company's common stock. The maximum term of the options is ten years from the date of grant. As of December 31, 2016, an aggregate of 3,322,630 of the Company's options are still available for future grant.


The options granted generally become fully vested after four years. Any options that are forfeited or cancelled before expiration become available for future grants.

The options outstanding as of December 31, 2016 have been classified by exercise price, as follows:

Exercise

 Price

 

Options

Outstanding as

of December 31,

2016

  

Weighted

Average

Remaining

Contractual

Term (Years)

  

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

  

Option

Exercisable as

of December 31,

2016

  

Weighted

Average

Exercise Price

of Options

Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$0.65

-  

$0.70

 

 

1,865,000

 

 

 

9.76

 

 

$

0.67

 

 

 

996,667

 

 

$

0.66

 

$1.10

-  

$1.32

 

 

25,000

 

 

 

6.84

 

 

$

1.28

 

 

 

15,000

 

 

$

1.25

 

$1.51

-  

$1.69

 

 

366,000

 

 

 

5.57

 

 

$

1.60

 

 

 

316,000

 

 

$

1.59

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,256,000

 

 

 

9.05

 

 

$

0.83

 

 

 

1,327,667

 

 

$

0.89

 

The total stock-based compensation expense related to all of the Company’s equity based awards, including non-employee options recognized for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 is comprised as follows:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Cost of revenues

 

$

6

 

 

$

7

 

Engineering and product development

 

 

17

 

 

 

20

 

Selling and marketing

 

 

5

 

 

 

6

 

General and administrative

 

 

492

 

 

 

193

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total stock-based compensation

 

$

520

 

 

$

226

 

A summary of option activity under the Company's stock option plans as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and changes during the years then ended are as follows:

 

 

Amount of

Options

 

 

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

 

 

Weighted

Average

remaining

Contractual

Term

(Years)

 

 

Aggregate

Intrinsic

Value

 

Balance at January 1, 2015

 

 

1,262,763

 

 

$

1.57

 

 

 

7.65

 

 

 

 

 

Granted

 

 

155,000

 

 

 

0.67

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

 

(261,000

)

 

 

1.29

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired

 

 

(10,763

)

 

 

0.70

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2015

 

 

1,146,000

 

 

 

1.52

 

 

 

6.74

 

 

 

 

 

Granted

 

 

1,800,000

 

 

 

0.67

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

 

(650,000

)

 

 

1.59

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired

 

 

(40,000

)

 

 

1.16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance outstanding at December 31, 2016

 

 

2,256,000

 

 

$

0.83

 

 

 

9.08

 

 

$

-

 

Exercisable at December 31, 2016

 

 

1,327,667

 

 

$

0.89

 

 

 

8.64

 

 

$

-

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total intrinsic value (the difference between the Company's closing stock price on December 31, 2016, $0.65 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money-options).


As of December 31, 2016, there was $492 of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock-based compensation arrangements granted under the Company's stock option plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.81 years.

Options Issued to Non-Employees

As of December 31, 2015, the Company's had options outstanding to purchase 142,500 shares of common stock to non-employees. During the year ended December 31, 2016, options to purchase 102,500 shares of common stock were forfeited and 40,000 options were expired.

Warrants

Warrants Issued to Executive Officer

In connection with executive employment agreement, on November 3, 2016, the Company issued to its Chief Executive Officer a ten-year warrant to purchase 317,460 shares of the Company's common stock (the "Warrant "), at an exercise price of $0.01 per share subject to vesting. The Warrant shall be subject to vesting of which warrants to purchase 39,682 shares shall vest beginning on January 1, 2017, and on the first date of each quarter thereafter through July 1, 2018, with warrants to purchase 39,686 shares to vest on October 1, 2018.   The fair value of the Warrant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model was $188, which was amortized ratably over a period of two years out of which $23 was recorded as stock-based compensation in general and administrative expenses during the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

 

Amount of

Warrants

 

 

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

 

 

Weighted

Average

remaining

Contractual

Term

(Years)

 

 

Aggregate

Intrinsic

Value

 

Balance at January 1, 2016

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Granted

 

 

317,460

 

 

$

0.01

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance outstanding at December 31, 2016

 

 

317,460

 

 

$

0.01

 

 

 

9.8

 

 

$

203

 

Exercisable at December 31, 2016

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total intrinsic value (the difference between the Company's closing stock price on December 31, 2016, $0.65 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money warrants).

NOTE 13: INCOME TAXES

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets are as follows:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Deferred tax asset:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating loss

 

$

2,206

 

 

$

2,233

 

Reserves and allowances

 

 

295

 

 

 

225

 

Tax Credit carryforward

 

 

153

 

 

 

153

 

Property and equipment

 

 

194

 

 

 

142

 

Total deferred tax asset

 

 

2,848

 

 

 

2,753

 

Valuation allowance

 

 

(2,848

)

 

 

(2,753

)

Deferred tax asset, net

 

$

 

 

$

 


The Company had Federal and state net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $5,334 and $3,622, respectively, available to offset future taxable income, expiring at various times from December 31through December 31, 2036. In accordance with Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, the future utilization of the Company’s net operating loss to offset future taxable income may be subject to an annual limitation as a result of ownership changes that may have occurred previously or that could occur in the future. The Company has not yet determined whether such an ownership change has occurred; however, the Company will be completing a Section 382 analysis regarding the limitation of the net operating loss.

In assessing the realization of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which temporary differences representing net future deductible amounts become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax assets, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. After consideration of all of the information available and due to the last five years significant losses there is substantial doubt related to the Company’s ability to utilize its deferred tax assets, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance of the deferred tax asset. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the valuation allowance has increased by $95.

The 2013 through 2016 tax years remain open to examination by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) and the 2012 through 2016 tax years remain open to examination by the California Franchise Tax Board (“FTB”). The IRS and FTB have the authority to examine those tax years until the applicable statute of limitations expires.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company’s foreign subsidiary had accumulated losses for income tax purposes in the amount of approximately $906. All of the Company’s international accumulated losses were generated in the United Kingdom, which has a statutory tax rate of 20%. These net operating losses may be carried forward and offset against taxable income in the future for an indefinite period. The Company has not recognized a U.S. deferred income tax asset on non-U.S. losses because the Company plans to indefinitely reinvest such earnings outside the U.S. Remittances of non-U.S. earnings, if any, are based on estimates and judgments of projected cash flow needs, as well as the working capital and investment requirements of the Company’s non-U.S. and U.S. operations. Material changes in the Company’s estimates of cash, working capital, and investment needs could require repatriation of indefinitely reinvested non-U.S. earnings, which would be subject to U.S. income taxes and applicable non-U.S. income and withholding taxes.

The net income tax benefit consists of the following:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Current

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign

 

$

(20

)

 

$

(1

)

Federal

 

 

 

 

 

 

State

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax (benefit)

 

$

(20

)

 

$

(1

)


The Company’s effective tax rates were (1.7%) and (0.1%) for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the effective tax rate differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to the change in the valuation allowance and the issuance of incentive stock options to the Company’s employees. The reconciliation of income tax attributable to operations computed at the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate of 34% to income tax expense is as follows:

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Tax benefit at U.S. Federal statutory tax rate

 

 

(34.0%

)

 

 

(34.0%

)

Increase (decrease) in tax rate resulting from:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock compensation expense

 

 

12.1

%

 

 

 

Taxes in respect of prior years

 

 

9.1

%

 

 

0.2

%

Increase in valuation allowance

 

 

8.3

%

 

 

28.0

%

Nondeductible meals & entertainment expense and other

 

 

4.4

%

 

 

7.2

%

State taxes, net of federal benefit

 

 

0.3

%

 

 

 

Foreign rate differential

 

 

(0.2%

)

 

 

(1.5%

)

Foreign R&D credit

 

 

(1.7%

)

 

 

 

Effective tax rate

 

 

(1.7%

)

 

 

(0.1%

)

The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC No. 740-10-25. ASC No. 740-10-25 addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under ASC No. 740-10-25, the Company may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit to be recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. To the extent that the final tax outcome of these matters is different than the amount recorded, such differences impact income tax expense in the period in which such determination is made. Interest and penalties, if any, related to accrued liabilities for potential tax assessments are included in income tax expense. ASC No. 740-10-25 also requires management to evaluate tax positions taken by the Company and recognize a liability if the Company has taken uncertain tax positions that more likely than not would not be sustained upon examination by applicable taxing authorities. Management of the Company has evaluated tax positions taken by the Company and has concluded that as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, there are no uncertain tax positions taken, or expected to be taken, that would require recognition of a liability that would require disclosure in the financial statements.

NOTE 14: RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

a.

On September 5, 2016, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Philou, and Telkoor pursuant to which the Philou purchased all of the Telkoor’s 2,714,610 shares of the common stock in the Company, constituting approximately 40.06% of the Company’s then outstanding shares of common stock. In consideration for such shares, the Philou paid Telkoor $1.5 million.

Pursuant to the Securities Purchase Agreement, the Company entered into a Rescission Agreement with the Telkoor in order to resolve all financial issues between the parties, including the repurchase by the Telkoor of 1,136,666 shares of common stock in Telkoor owned by the Company for $90, which was equal to the carrying amount of the investment.

The closing of the transactions under the Securities Purchase Agreement and the Rescission Agreement occurred on September 22, 2016.

Philou is the Company’s largest stockholder. Kristine Ault, a director of the Company, is managing member of MCKEA, which in turn, is the member of Philou. Kristine Ault’s spouse is Milton Ault who is Executive Chairman of the Board of the Directors of the Company.

In addition, on March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou. Pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou may invest up to $5,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over a specified term.


b.

In anticipation of the acquisition of MTIX by AVLP and the expectation of future business generated by the Company from a strategic investment into AVLP, the Company entered into three 12% Convertible Promissory Note agreements with AVLP in the principal amount of $525 each, including a 5% original issue discount. After six months, the Company has a right, at its option, to convert all or any portion of the principal and accrued interest into shares of common stock of AVLP at $0.74536 per share

During the last quarter of 2016, the Company invested $950 pursuant to 12% Convertible Promissory Notes and another $507 was invested on the first quarter of 2017. (The remaining balance to invest is $43).

Further, the Company has acquired 250,900 shares of AVLP Common Stock in the open market for $85.

AVLP, a Nevada corporation, is a holding company currently engaged in acquiring and/or developing businesses in which AVLP maintains a controlling interest. AVLP anticipates that its subsidiaries will be engaged in a number of diverse business activities. AVLP currently has two subsidiaries, Smith and Ramsay Brands, LLC (“SRB”) and Restaurant Capital Group, LLC (“RCG”). SRB was formed on May 19, 2014, and RCG was formed on October 22, 2015. AVLP is quoted under the symbol “AVLP” on the OTC Pink sheets operated by OTC Markets Group, Inc.

Philou is AVLP’s controlling shareholder. Mr. Ault is Chairman of AVLP’s Board of Directors and Mr. William B. Horne is the Chief Financial Officer of AVLP. Mr. Horne is also the audit committee chairman of the Company.

On October 24, 2016, AVLP entered into a letter of intent to acquire MTIX, an advanced materials and processing Technology Company located in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK. On October 26, 2016, pursuant to the term of the letter of intent, AVLP made an initial payment of $50 towards the purchase of MTIX.

On March 3, 2017, AVLP entered into a Share Exchange Agreement with MTIX and the three current shareholders of MTIX.  Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Share Exchange Agreement, AVLP will acquire MTIX from the MTIX shareholders through the transfer of all issued and outstanding ordinary shares of MTIX (the “MTIX Shares”) by the MTIX shareholders to AVLP in exchange for the issuance by AVLP of: (a) 7% secured convertible promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $9,500 to the MTIX shareholders in pro rata amounts commensurate with their current respective ownership percentages of MTIX’s ordinary shares, (b) (i) $500 in cash, $50 of which was paid on October 26, 2016, and (ii) 100,000 shares of AVLP’s newly designated shares of Class B Convertible Preferred Stock to the principal shareholder of MTIX.

On the closing date, the fully-diluted AVLP shares shall be 52,128,325 shares of common stock, assuming that (i) the MTIX promissory notes are convertible into shares of AVLP Common Stock at a conversion price of $0.50 per share, (ii) the shares of AVLP Class B Convertible Preferred Stock are convertible into shares of AVLP Common Stock at a conversion rate of $0.50 per share and (iii) the issuance of stock options to purchase an aggregate of 531,919 shares of AVLP Common Stock to the members of the MTIX management group.

During March 2017, the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million purchase order by MTIX to manufacture, install and service the MLSE plasma-laser system.

c.

On December 29, 2016, the Company received a $250 short term loan from MCKEA, the member of Philou. Ms. Ault, a director of the Company, is the managing member of MCKEA. On March 24, 2017, the $250 loan was cancelled in consideration for the issuance of 25,000 shares of Series B preferred stock of the Company to Philou.

d.

On September 22, 2016, the Company entered into consulting agreement with Mr. Ault to assist the Company in developing a business strategy, identifying new business opportunities, developing a capital raising program and implementing of a capital deployment program. For his services Mr. Ault will be paid a monthly fee of $15 from November 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017 and may be renewed.


e.

On October 21, 2016, the Company entered into a 12% convertible secured note in the principal amount of $530 with Mr. Barry Blank, an existing stockholder of the Company, for $500 due on October 20, 2019. The principal amount of 12% convertible secured note may be convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.55 per share, subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations Mr. Blank may convert the principal amount of the convertible note at any time into common stock. 

Mr. Blank owns 419,900 shares of the common stock of the Company, constituting approximately 5.02% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock. The 12% convertible secured note will convert into 963,636 shares of common stock which represent 20.5% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock without regard to an beneficial ownership limitation.

As additional consideration, Mr. Blank received a three-year warrant to purchase 265,000 shares of common stock each at an exercise price of $0.80 and a three-year warrant to purchase 265,000 shares of common stock each at an exercise price of $0.90.

f.

On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou. Pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou may invest up to $5,000,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over the 36 months.

g.

On March 24, 2017, Philou purchased 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock (Note 16).

NOTE 15: SEGMENT CUSTOMERS AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

The Company has two reportable geographic segments; see Note 1 for a brief description of the Company’s business.

The following data presents the revenues, expenditures and other operating data of the Company’s geographic operating segments and presented in accordance with ASC 280.

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2016

 

 

 

DPC

 

 

DPL

 

 

Eliminations

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

4,552

 

 

$

3,044

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

7,596

 

Inter-segment revenues

 

 

145

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(145

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenues

 

$

4,697

 

 

$

3,044

 

 

$

(145

)

 

$

7,596

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expenses

 

$

75

 

 

$

86

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

161

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

$

(1,110

)

 

$

(109

)

 

$

-

 

 

$

(1,219

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

77

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(1,122

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures for segment assets for the year ended December 31, 2016

 

$

32

 

 

$

53

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

85

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Identifiable assets as of December 31, 2016

 

$

3,152

 

 

$

2,320

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

5,472

 


 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2015

 

 

 

DPC

 

 

DPL

 

 

Eliminations

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

3,833

 

 

$

3,933

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

7,766

 

Inter-segment revenues

 

 

371

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(371

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenues

 

$

4,204

 

 

$

3,933

 

 

$

(371

)

 

$

7,766

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expenses

 

$

74

 

 

$

139

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

213

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

$

(1,086

)

 

$

83

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

(1,003

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Impairment of investment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(110

)

Other income, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(1,096

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures for segment assets for the year ended December 31, 2015

 

$

58

 

 

$

248

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

306

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Identifiable assets as of December 31, 2015

 

$

2,384

 

 

$

2,715

 

 

$

-

 

 

$

5,099

 

The following table provides the percentage of total revenues attributable to a single customer from which 10% or more of total revenues are derived:

For the year ended December 31,2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Revenues

by Major

Customers

(in thousands)

 

 

Percentage of

Total

Company

Revenues

 

Customer A

 

$

1,328

 

 

 

17

%

Customer B

 

$

750

 

 

 

10

%

For the year ended December 31,2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Revenues

by Major

Customers

(in thousands)

 

 

Percentage of

Total

Company

Revenues

 

Customer A

 

$

853

 

 

 

11

%

Customer B

 

$

1,809

 

 

 

23

%

Revenue from customer A was attributable to DPC and revenue from Customer B attributable to DPL.

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, total revenues from external customers divided on the basis of the Company’s product lines are as follows:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial products

 

$

5,307

 

 

$

4,802

 

Defense products

 

 

2,289

 

 

 

2,964

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenues

 

$

7,596

 

 

$

7,766

 


Financial data relating to geographic areas:

The Company’s total revenues are attributed to geographic areas based on the location.

The following table presents total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. Other than as shown, no foreign country contributed materially to revenues or long-lived assets for these periods:

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

North America

 

$

4,541

 

 

$

3,435

 

Europe (including UK)

 

 

1,845

 

 

 

1,704

 

Asia

 

 

255

 

 

 

768

 

Australia

 

 

123

 

 

 

42

 

South America

 

 

81

 

 

 

3

 

South Korea

 

 

751

 

 

 

1,814

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenues

 

$

7,596

 

 

$

7,766

 

NOTE 16: SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

In February 2017, the Company issued $400 in demand promissory notes and five year warrants to purchase 333,333 shares of common stock at $ 0.70, per share.

In February 16, 2017, the holder of the $100 in demand promissory notes agreed to cancel its demand promissory note for the purchase of 166,667 shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share.

In February 23, 2017, the holders of the $300 in demand promissory notes agreed to cancel their demand promissory notes to purchase of 500,000 shares of Common Stock at $0.60 per share.

On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou, the majority stockholder of the Company and of which Kristine Ault, a director of the Company, is the managing member of MCKEA which, in turn, is the Manager of Philou. Pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou may invest up to $5,000,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over the term of 36 months.

In addition, for each share of Series B Preferred Stock purchased, Philou will receive warrants to purchase shares of common stock in a number equal to the stated value of each share of Series B Preferred Stock of $10.00 purchased divided by $0.70 at an exercise price equal to $0.70 per share of common stock

Further, Philou shall have the right to participate in the Company’s future financings under substantially the same terms and conditions as other investors in those respective financings in order to maintain its then percentage ownership interest in the Company. Philou’s right to participate in such financings shall accrue and accumulate provided that it still owns at least 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock.

On March 15, 2017, Company entered into a subscription agreement with an investor for the sale of 500,000 shares of common stock at $0.60 per share for the aggregate purchase price of $300.

On March 24, 2017, Philou purchased 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement in consideration of the cancellation of the Company debt due to an affiliate of Philou in the amount of $250. 

On March 28, 2017, the Company issued $270 in demand promissory notes to several investors. These demand promissory notes bear interest at the rate of 6% per annum. On April 5, 2017, the Company canceled these promissory notes by issuing 360,000 shares of common stock at $0.75 per share. In addition, the Company also issued warrants to purchase 180,000 shares of common stock at $0.90 per share to these investors.


Exhibit 10.1

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION

$500,000 12% SENIOR SECURED NOTE

NOTE

October 05, 2016


Summary

Digital Power Corporation (NYSE MKT:DPW)(DPW) provides this capital financing offer of $500,000 to Avalanche International Corp. (OTC:AVLP)(AVLP). DPW designs, manufactures and markets flexible power supply solutions for the most demanding applications in the telecom, medical, industrial and military markets. DPW is a California corporation with its U.S. headquarters in Fremont, California. Avalanche International Corp. is a holding company and Nevada corporation. AVLP has two wholly-owned operating subsidiaries, Restaurant Capital Group, LLC and Smith and Ramsay Brands, LLC. With its headquarters in Las Vegas, NV, the development strategy of AVLP is growth through acquisition and investment. This growth strategy permeates throughout AVLP and extends to its operational businesses. These businesses target horizontal opportunities as well as internal growth and typically feature consumer audiences and niche sectors.

Highlights of the transaction include:

1.

A $525,000 Convertible Promissory Note (Note) providing net working capital of $500,000 with a $25,000 OID and simple annual interest rate of 12% for two years.

2.

The Note is currently convertible into 9.9% of the common stock of AVLP, $0.74536 per share for 670,821 common shares.


THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED OR REGISTERED OR QUALIFIED UNDER ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS. THE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD, TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS SUCH SALE, TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUCH ACT AND APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS.

AVALANCHE INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION

12% CONVERTIBLE PROMISSORY NOTE

US $525,000.00

Las Vegas, Nevada

10/05/2016

For good and valuable consideration, Avalanche International Corp, a Nevada corporation, (“Maker”), hereby makes and delivers this 12% secured Convertible Promissory Note (this “Note”) in favor of Digital Power Corporation, or its assigns (“Holder”), and hereby agrees as follows:

1.

Principal Obligation and Interest. For value received, Maker promises to pay to Holder at 5940 S. Rainbow Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89118, or at such other place as Holder may designate in writing, in currently available funds of the United States, the principal amount of Five Hundred Twenty-Five (USD). Maker’s obligation under this Note shall accrue simple interest at the rate of Twelve Percent (12.0%) per year from the date hereof until paid in full. Interest shall be computed on the basis of a 365-day year or 366-day year, as applicable, and actual days lapsed.

2.

Payment Terms.

a.     All principal and accrued interest then outstanding shall be due and payable by the Maker on or before two (2) Years from the date actual cash is received by the Holder (the “Maturity Date”) or until earlier redemption of this Note under the terms hereof.

b.     Accrued interest hereunder shall be due and payable from Maker to Holder at Maturity Date or until earlier redemption of this Note under the terms hereof at any time after the date hereof, and before the Maturity Date of this Note or may be paid or redeemed in whole, or in part on one or more occasions, at the sole option of the Maker.

c.     At any time after the date hereof and before the Maturity Date of this Note or may be paid or redeemed in whole, or in part on one or more occasions, at the sole option of the Maker.

d.     All payments of principal and interest hereunder may, at the sole option of the Maker, be paid pro-rata or redeemed for common stock at a conversion price of $.74536 in validly issued shares of common stock in the Maker, par value $0.001, issued to Holder. For example, Holder could redeem 670,821 shares at a conversion price of $.74536 per share for the principal balance only at a time deemed permissible by Rule 144. Any and all accrued interest would be payable by cash or at an equivalent conversion rate into the shares of the Company’s common stock.


e.     All payments shall be applied first to interest, then principal and shall be credited to the Maker's account on the date that such payment is physically received by the Holder.

3.             Optional Conversion; Adjustments to Conversion Price.

a.     At any time after six months from the date hereof, the Holder shall have the right, at its option, to convert all or any portion of the principal and accrued interest due and owing hereunder into shares of fully paid and nonassessable Common Stock of the Maker at the price of $0.74536 per share, (the "Conversion Price"), subject to adjustment as explained herein.

b.     If the Maker shall (i) declare a dividend or other distribution payable in securities, (ii) split its outstanding shares of Common Stock into a larger number, (iii) combine its outstanding shares of Common Stock into a smaller number, or (iv) increase or decrease the number of shares of its capital stock in a reclassification of the Common Stock including any such reclassification in connection with a merger, consolidation or other business combination in which the Maker is the continuing entity (any such corporate event, an “Event”), then in each instance the Conversion Price shall be adjusted such that the number of shares issued upon conversion of the sum due and owing hereunder will equal the number of shares of Common Stock that would otherwise be issued but for such event.

c.Notices.

i.     Immediately upon any adjustment of the Conversion Price, the Maker shall give written notice thereof to Holder, setting forth in reasonable detail and certifying the calculation of such adjustment and the facts upon which such adjustment is based.

ii.     The Maker shall give written notice to the Holder at least five (5) days prior to the date on which the Maker closes its books or takes a record (a) with respect to any dividend or distribution upon Common Stock, or (b) with respect to any dissolution or liquidation or any merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization or similar event.

4.             Security. This Note shall be secured through a lien on any new assets purchased by AVLP from this day forward along with the full faith and credit of AVLP.


5.             Registration Rights.

a.     The Maker agrees that if, at any time, and from time to time, the Board of Directors of the Maker shall authorize the filing of a registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933 on Form S-1, S-3, or S-4 in connection with the proposed offer of any of its securities by it or any of its stockholders, the Maker shall: (A) promptly notify each Holder that such registration statement will be filed and that the Common Stock issuable to Holder upon conversion of this Note at the Conversion Price then in effect (the “Registrable Securities”) will be included in such registration statement at such Holder’s request; (B) cause such registration statement to cover all of such Registrable Securities for which such Holder requests inclusion; (C) use best efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective as soon as practicable; (D) use best efforts to cause such registration statement to remain effective until the earliest to occur of (i) such date as the sellers of Registrable Securities have completed the distribution described in the registration statement and (ii) such time that all of such Registrable Securities are no longer, by reason of Rule 144 under the Securities Act, required to be registered for the sale thereof by such Holders; and (E) take all other reasonable action necessary under any federal or state law or regulation of any governmental authority to permit all such Registrable Securities to be sold or otherwise disposed of, and will maintain such compliance with each such federal and state law and regulation of any governmental authority for the period necessary for such Holder to promptly effect the proposed sale or other disposition.

b.     The right of any Holder to request inclusion in any registration pursuant to this Agreement shall terminate if all Registrable Securities may immediately be sold under Rule 144.

c.     Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 5, the Maker may at any time, abandon or delay any registration commenced by the Maker. In the event of such an abandonment by the Maker, the Maker shall not be required to continue registration of shares requested by the Holder for inclusion.

d.     In connection with any offering involving an underwriting of shares of the Maker’s capital stock, the Maker shall not be required to include any of the Registrable Securities in such underwriting unless they accept the terms of the underwriting as agreed upon between the Maker and the underwriters selected by it, and then only in such quantity as the underwriters determine in their sole discretion will not jeopardize the success of the offering by the Maker. If the total amount of securities, including Registrable Securities, requested by stockholders to be included in such offering exceeds the amount of securities sold other than by the Maker that the underwriters determine in their sole discretion is compatible with the success of the offering, then the Maker shall be required to include in the offering only that number of such securities, including Registrable Securities, which the underwriters determine in their sole discretion will not jeopardize the success of the offering (the securities so included to be apportioned pro rata among the selling stockholders according to the total amount of securities entitled to be included therein owned by each selling stockholder or in such other proportions as shall mutually be agreed to by such selling stockholders).


6.             Representations and Warranties of Maker. Maker hereby represents and warrants the following to Holder:

a.     Maker and those executing this Note on its behalf have the full right, power, and authority to execute, deliver and perform the Obligations under this Note, which are not prohibited or restricted under the articles of incorporation or bylaws of Maker. This Note has been duly executed and delivered by an authorized officer of Maker and constitutes a valid and legally binding obligation of Maker enforceable in accordance with its terms.

b.     The execution of this Note and Maker’s compliance with the terms, conditions and provisions hereof does not conflict with or violate any provision of any agreement, contract, lease, deed of trust, indenture, or instrument to which Maker is a party or by which Maker is bound, or constitute a default thereunder.

7.             Representations and Covenants of the Holder. The Maker has issued this Note in reliance upon the following representations and covenants of the Holder:

a.Investment Purpose. This Note and any common stock which may be issued as payment hereunder or upon conversion hereof are acquired for investment and not with a view to the sale or distribution of any part thereof, and the Holder has no present intention of selling or engaging in any public distribution of the same except pursuant to a registration or exemption.

b.Private Issue. The Holder understands (i) that this Note and any common stock which may be issued as payment hereunder are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “1933 Act”) or qualified under applicable state securities laws, and (ii) that the Maker is relying on an exemption from registration predicated on the representations set forth in this Section 7.

c.Financial Risk. The Holder has such knowledge and experience in financial and business matters as to be capable of evaluating the merits and risks of its investment, and has the ability to bear the economic risks of its investment.

d.Risk of No Registration. The Holder understands that if the Maker does not register with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "1934 Act"), or file reports pursuant to Section 15(d) of the 1934 Act, or if a registration statement covering the securities under the 1933 Act is not in effect when it desires to sell any of the common stock issued as payment hereunder, it may be required to hold such securities for an indefinite period. The Holder also understands that any sale of this Note or any sale of common stock in the Maker which might be made by Holder in reliance upon Rule 144 under the 1933 Act may be made only in accordance with the terms and conditions of that Rule.


8.Defaults. The following events shall be defaults under this Note:

a.     Maker’s failure to remit any payment under this Note on before the date due, if such failure is not cured in full within ten (10) days of written notice of default;

b.     Maker’s failure to perform or breach of any non-monetary obligation or covenant set forth in this Note or in the Agreement if such failure is not cured in full within fifteen (15) days following delivery of written notice thereof from Holder to Maker;

c.     If Maker is dissolved, whether pursuant to any applicable articles of incorporation or bylaws, and/or any applicable laws, or otherwise;

d.     The entry of a decree or order by a court having jurisdiction in the premises adjudging the Maker bankrupt or insolvent, or approving as properly filed a petition seeking reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition of or in respect of the Maker under the federal Bankruptcy code or any other applicable federal or state law, or appointing a receiver, liquidator, assignee or trustee of the Maker, or any substantial part if its property, or ordering the winding up or liquidation of its affairs, and the continuance of any such decree or order un-stayed and in effect for a period of twenty (20) days; or

e.     Maker’s institution of proceedings to be adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent, or the consent by it to the institution of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings against it, or its filing of a petition or answer or consent seeking reorganization or relief under the federal Bankruptcy Code or any other applicable federal or state law, or its consent to the filing of any such petition or to the appointment of a receiver, liquidator, assignee or trustee of the company, or of any substantial part of its property, or its making of an assignment for the benefit of creditors or the admission by it in writing of its inability to pay its debts generally as they become due, or the taking of corporate action by the Maker in furtherance of any such action.

9.             Rights and Remedies of Holder. Upon the occurrence of an event of default by Maker under this Note, then, in addition to all other rights and remedies at law or in equity, Holder may exercise any one or more of the following rights and remedies:

a.     Accelerate the time for payment of all amounts payable under this Note by written notice thereof to Maker, whereupon all such amounts shall be immediately due and payable.

b.     Pursue any other rights or remedies available to Holder at law or in equity.

10.           Choice of Laws; Actions. This Note shall be constructed and construed in accordance with the internal substantive laws of the State of California, without regard to the choice of law principles of said State. Maker acknowledges that this Note has been negotiated in Alameda County, California. Accordingly, the exclusive venue of any action, suit, and counterclaim or cross claim arising under, out of, or in connection with this Note shall be the state or federal courts in Alameda County, California. Maker hereby consents to the personal jurisdiction of any court of competent subject matter jurisdiction sitting in Alameda, California.


11.           Usury Savings Clause. Maker expressly agrees and acknowledges that Maker and Holder intend and agree that this Note shall not be subject to the usury laws of any state other than the State of Nevada. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Note to the contrary, if collection from Maker of interest at the rate set forth herein would be contrary to applicable laws, then the applicable interest rate upon default shall be the highest interest rate that may be collected from Maker under applicable laws at such time.

12.          Costs of Collection. Should the indebtedness represented by this Note, or any part hereof, be collected at law, in equity, or in any bankruptcy, receivership or other court proceeding, or this Note be placed in the hands of any attorney for collection after default, Maker agrees to pay, in addition to the principal and interest due hereon, all reasonable attorneys’ fees, plus all other costs and expenses of collection and enforcement.

13.          Miscellaneous.

a.     This Note shall be binding upon Maker and shall inure to the benefit of Holder and its successors, assigns, heirs, and legal representatives.

b.     Any failure or delay by Holder to insist upon the strict performance of any term, condition, covenant or agreement of this Note, or to exercise any right, power or remedy hereunder shall not constitute a waiver of any such term, condition, covenant, agreement, right, power or remedy.

c.     Any provision of this Note that is unenforceable shall be severed from this Note to the extent reasonably possible without invalidating or affecting the intent, validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Note.

d.     This Note may not be modified or amended in any respect except in a writing executed by the party to be charged.

e.     Time is of the essence.

14.          Notices. All notices required to be given under this Note shall be given to each of the parties at such address as a party may designate by written notice to the other party. Notices may be transmitted by facsimile, certified mail, private delivery, electronic mail, or any other commercially reasonable means, and shall be deemed given upon receipt by the Party to whom they are addressed.

15.          Waiver of Certain Formalities. All parties to this Note hereby waive presentment, dishonor, notice of dishonor and protest. All parties hereto consent to, and Holder is hereby expressly authorized to make, without notice, any and all renewals, extensions, modifications or waivers of the time for or the terms of payment of any sum or sums due hereunder, or under any documents or instruments relating to or securing this Note, or of the performance of any covenants, conditions or agreements hereof or thereof or the taking or release of collateral securing this Note. Any such action taken by Holder shall not discharge the liability of any party to this Note.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Note has been executed effective the date and place first written above.

Avalanche International Corp “Maker”:

Digital Power Corporation “Holder”:

By: /s/ Philip E. Mansour

By: /s/ Amos Kohn                                             

Philip E. Mansour, President & CEO

Amos Kohn, President & CEO


Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (No. 333-104941 and No. 333-192819) and Registration Statements on Form S-3 (No. 333-215237; No. 333-215834; and No. 333-215852) of our report dated March 30, 2016, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Digital Power Corporation and its subsidiary, included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2015 and for the year then ended, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Digital Power Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2016.

/s/ KOST FORER GABBAY &

KASIERER

Tel-Aviv, Israel

KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER

April 10, 2017

A Member of Ernst & Young Global


Exhibit 23.2

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm’s Consent

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement of Digital Power Corporation on Forms S-8 (File No. 333-104941 and File No. 333-192819) and Forms S-3 (File No. 333-215237, File No. 333-215834 and File No. 333-215852) of our report dated April 10, 2017, with respect to our audit of the consolidated financial statements of Digital Power Corporation and Subsidiary as of December 31, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2016, which report is included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Digital Power Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2016.

/s/ Marcum LLP

Marcum LLP

New York, NY

April 10, 2017


Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Amos Kohn, certify that:

1.

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Digital Power Corporation;

2.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.

The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a)        Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b)        Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c)        Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d)        Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent quarter (the registrant's fourth quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.         The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a)        All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,process summarize and report financial information; and

(b)        Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Dated: April 10, 2017

By: /s/ Amos Kohn

Amos Kohn, President and Chief Executive Officer


Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION

I, Uri Friedlander, certify that:

1.

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Digital Power Corporation;

2.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.

The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a)        Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b)        Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c)        Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d)        Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent quarter (the registrant's fourth quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.

The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a)        All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b)        Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Dated: April 10, 2017

By:  /s/ Uri Friedlander

Uri Friedlander

V.P. of Finance, Principal Accounting Officer


Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

The undersigned hereby certify, pursuant to, and as required by, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of   2002, that the Annual Report of Digital Power Corporation (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and that information contained in such Annual Report on Form 10-K fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Dated: April 10, 2017

By:

/s/ Amos Kohn Amos Kohn

President and Chief Executive Officer

/s/ Uri Friedlander

Uri Friedlander

V.P. of Finance and Principal Accounting Officer


Appendix B


UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2017

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 1-12711

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

California

94-1721931

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or

organization)

(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

48430 Lakeview Blvd

Fremont, CA 94538-3158

(Address of principal executive offices)

(510) 657-2635

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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 and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes ☑ 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  ☐

 (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 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 12(b)-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes ☐    No ☑

At August 17, 2017 the registrant had outstanding 13,469,509 shares of common stock.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.

Financial Statements

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2017 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2016

B-4 - B-5

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (Unaudited)

B-6

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (Unaudited)

B-7 - B-8

Notes to Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

B-9 - B-38

Item 2.

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

B-39

Item 3. 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

B-45

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

B-46

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

B-46

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

B-46

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

B-46

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

B-46

Item 4.

Reserved

B-46

Item 5.

Other Information

B-46

Item 6.

Exhibits

B-47


Forward-Looking Statements

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Words such as "anticipates," "expects," "intends," "goals," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "continues," "may," "will," “would,” "should," “could,” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to projections of our future financial performance, our anticipated growth and trends in our businesses, uncertain events or assumptions, and other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on management's expectations as of the date of this filing and involve many risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in our forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include those described throughout this report and our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, particularly the "Risk Factors" sections of such reports. Given these risks and uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made in this Form 10-Q and in other documents we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission that disclose risks and uncertainties that may affect our business. The forward-looking statements in this Form 10-Q do not reflect the potential impact of any divestitures, mergers, acquisitions, or other business combinations that had not been completed as of August 21, 2017. In addition, the forward-looking statements in this Form 10-Q are made as of the date of this filing, and we do not undertake, and expressly disclaims any duty, to update such statements, whether as a result of new information, new developments or otherwise, except to the extent that disclosure may be required by law.


PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements.

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

U.S. dollars in thousands

 

 

June 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

443

 

 

$

996

 

Accounts receivable, net

 

 

1,253

 

 

 

1,439

 

Inventories, net

 

 

1,609

 

 

 

1,122

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

659

 

 

 

285

 

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS

 

 

3,964

 

 

 

3,842

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted cash

 

 

100

 

 

 

 

Intangible assets

 

 

93

 

 

 

 

Goodwill

 

 

6,002

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

623

 

 

 

570

 

Investments - related parties, net of original issue discount of $103 and $45, respectively

 

 

2,582

 

 

 

1,036

 

Other investments

 

 

398

 

 

 

 

Deposits and loans

 

 

219

 

 

 

24

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

$

13,981

 

 

$

5,472

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

$

2,835

 

 

$

1,231

 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses, related party

 

 

100

 

 

 

 

Revolving credit facility

 

 

612

 

 

 

 

Notes payable

 

 

1,247

 

 

 

250

 

Notes payable, related parties

 

 

278

 

 

 

 

Convertible notes payable

 

 

250

 

 

 

 

Other current liabilities

 

 

427

 

 

 

398

 

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

 

5,749

 

 

 

1,879

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LONG TERM LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes payable

 

 

569

 

 

 

 

Notes payable, related parties

 

 

128

 

 

 

 

Convertible notes payable, related party, net of discount of $408 and $496, respectively, at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016

 

 

122

 

 

 

34

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

 

$

6,568

 

 

$

1,913

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (continued)

U.S. dollars in thousands

 

 

June 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, no par value – 500,000 shares authorized; nil shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

Series B Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, $10 stated value per share, no par value – 500,000 shares authorized; 100,000 and nil shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively (liquidation preference of $1,000 and nil at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Series C Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, $2.40 stated value per share, no par value – 460,000 shares authorized; 455,002 and nil shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively (liquidation preference of $1,092 and nil at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Series D Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, $0.01 stated value per share, no par value – 378,776 shares authorized; 378,776 and nil shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively (liquidation preference of $0.01 per share)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Series E Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, $45 stated value per share, no par value – 10,000 shares authorized; 10,000 and nil shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively (liquidation preference of $0.01 per share)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred Stock, no par value – 151,224 shares authorized; nil shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock, no par value – 30,000,000 shares authorized; 12,304,546 and 7,677,637 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

 

22,519

 

 

 

16,537

 

Accumulated deficit

 

 

(15,218

)

 

 

(12,158

)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

 

(721

)

 

 

(820

)

TOTAL DIGITAL POWER STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

6,580

 

 

 

3,559

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-controlling interest

 

 

833

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL EQUITY

 

 

7,413

 

 

 

3,559

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

$

13,981

 

 

$

5,472

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHNSIVE LOSS (Unaudited)

U.S. dollars in thousands, except per share data

 

 

For the Three Months Ended June 30,

 

 

For the Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

 

$

1,822

 

 

$

2,064

 

 

$

3,450

 

 

$

3,777

 

Cost of revenue

 

 

1,092

 

 

 

1,310

 

 

 

2,012

 

 

 

2,403

 

Gross profit

 

 

730

 

 

 

754

 

 

 

1,438

 

 

 

1,374

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Engineering and product development

 

 

265

 

 

 

170

 

 

 

492

 

 

 

364

 

Selling and marketing

 

 

327

 

 

 

233

 

 

 

622

 

 

 

488

 

General and administrative

 

 

1,582

 

 

 

340

 

 

 

2,555

 

 

 

711

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

2,174

 

 

 

743

 

 

 

3,669

 

 

 

1,563

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss from operations

 

 

(1,444

)

 

 

11

 

 

 

(2,231

)

 

 

(189

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest (expense) income, net

 

 

(407

)

 

 

55

 

 

 

(614

)

 

 

62

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(1,851

)

 

$

66

 

 

$

(2,845

)

 

$

(127

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest

 

 

112

 

 

 

 

 

 

112

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss attributable to Digital Power Corp

 

 

(1,739

)

 

 

66

 

 

 

(2,733

)

 

 

(127

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred deemed dividends

 

 

(319

)

 

 

 

 

 

(319

)

 

 

 

Preferred dividends

 

 

(8

)

 

 

 

 

 

(8

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss available to common shareholders

 

$

(2,066

)

 

$

66

 

 

$

(3,060

)

 

$

(127

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 

$

(0.20

)

 

$

0.01

 

 

$

(0.32

)

 

$

(0.02

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

 

 

10,467,658

 

 

 

6,775,971

 

 

 

9,430,945

 

 

 

6,775,971

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive Loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss available to common shareholders

 

$

(2,066

)

 

$

66

 

 

$

(3,060

)

 

$

(127

)

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in net foreign currency translation adjustments

 

 

78

 

 

 

(152

)

 

 

99

 

 

 

(210

)

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

78

 

 

 

(152

)

 

 

99

 

 

 

(210

)

Total Comprehensive loss

 

$

(1,988

)

 

$

(86

)

 

$

(2,961

)

 

$

(337

)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)

U.S. dollars in thousands

 

 

For the Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(2,845

)

 

$

(127

)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

 

78

 

 

 

84

 

Amortization

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

Interest expense – debt discount

 

 

587

 

 

 

 

Accretion of original issue discount on notes receivable – related party

 

 

(19

)

 

 

 

Interest expense on extinguishment of demand notes to common stock

 

 

13

 

 

 

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

752

 

 

 

87

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

651

 

 

 

4

 

Inventories

 

 

216

 

 

 

256

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

(228

)

 

 

53

 

Other assets

 

 

(82

)

 

 

 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

 

(91

)

 

 

(25

)

Accounts payable, related parties

 

 

100

 

 

 

 

Other current liabilities

 

 

(307

)

 

 

(198

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

 

 

(1,173

)

 

 

134

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment

 

 

(21

)

 

 

(74

)

Investments – related party

 

 

(1,527

)

 

 

 

Investments – others

 

 

(95

)

 

 

 

Loan to third party

 

 

(489

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

 

(2,132

)

 

 

(74

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross proceeds from sales of common stock and warrants

 

 

300

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock

 

 

1,540

 

 

 

 

Financing cost in connection with sales of equity securities

 

 

(275

)

 

 

 

Proceeds from convertible notes payable

 

 

354

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from notes payable – related party

 

 

350

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from notes payable

 

 

710

 

 

 

 

Payments on revolving credit facility, net

 

 

(268

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

 

2,711

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents

 

 

41

 

 

 

(89

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

 

 

(553

)

 

 

(29

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

 

996

 

 

 

1,241

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 

$

443

 

 

$

1,212

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (continued)

U.S. dollars in thousands

 

 

For the Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during the period for interest

 

$

32

 

 

$

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cancellation of notes payable – related party into shares of common stock

 

$

100

 

 

$

-

 

Cancellation of notes payable into shares of common stock

 

$

625

 

 

$

-

 

Cancellation of note payable – related party into series B convertible preferred stock

 

$

500

 

 

$

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In connection with the Company's acquisiton of Microphase Corporation, equity instruments were issued and liabilities assumed during 2017 as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of assets acquired

 

$

7,893

 

 

 

 

 

Equity instruments issued

 

 

(1,451

)

 

 

 

 

Minority interest

 

 

(945

)

 

 

 

 

Liabilities assumed

 

$

5,497

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

Digital Power Corporation ("Digital Power") was incorporated in 1969, under the General Corporation Law of the State of California. Digital Power and Digital Power Limited ("DP Limited"), a wholly owned subsidiary, located in the United Kingdom, are currently engaged in the design, manufacture and sale of switching power supplies and converters. On November 30, 2016, Digital Power formed Digital Power Lending, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary (“DP Lending”). DP Lending is engaged in providing commercial loans to companies throughout the United States to provide them with operating capital to finance the growth of their businesses. The loans will primarily be short-term, ranging from six to twelve months. Further, on June 2, 2017, Digital Power purchased 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the “Microphase”). Microphase is a design-to-manufacture original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) delivering radio frequency (“RF”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“DLVA”) to the military, aerospace and telecommunications industries. Microphase is headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut. Digital Power, DP Limited, Microphase and DP Lending (collectively, the “Company”) has two reportable geographic segments - North America (sales through Digital Power, Microphase and DP Lending) and Europe (sales through DP Limited).

2. LIQUIDITY, GOING CONCERN AND MANAGEMENT’S PLANS

As of June 30, 2017, the Company had cash and cash equivalent of $443, an accumulated deficit of $15,218 and a negative working capital of $1,785. The Company has incurred recurring losses and reported losses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, totaled $1,739 and $2,733, respectively.  In the past, the Company has financed its operations principally through issuances of convertible debt, promissory notes and equity securities. During 2017, as reflected below, the Company continues to successfully obtain additional equity and debt financing and in restructuring existing debt. The following financings transactions were consummated during 2017:

In February 2017, the Company issued demand promissory notes and warrants to purchase 333,333 shares of common stock at $ 0.70 per share for aggregate proceeds of $400. Further in February 2017, the holders of $400 in demand promissory notes agreed to extinguish their $400 of debt by cancelling their notes to purchase 666,667 shares of common stock of the Company at $0.60 per share (See Note 9).

On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou Ventures LLC (“Philou”), a related party, pursuant to which Philou was granted the right to invest up to $5,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over a term of 36 months.   On March 24, 2017, Philou purchased 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement in consideration of cancellation of Company debt of $250 due to MCKEA, an affiliate of Philou. On May 5, 2017, Philou purchased an additional 50,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement for $500 (See Note 13).

On March 15, 2017, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with one investor for the sale of 500,000 shares of common stock at $0.60 per share for the aggregate purchase price of $300 (See Note 13).

On March 20, 2017, the Company issued $250 in demand promissory note to one of the Company's shareholders (See Note 13). This $250 demand promissory note was converted in shares of the Series B Preferred Stock for the benefit of Philou.

On March 28, 2017, the Company issued $270 in demand promissory notes to several investors. The Company received gross proceeds of $220 on March 31, 2017 and the remaining balance of $50 was received on April 3, 2017. On April 5, 2017, the Company canceled these promissory notes by issuing to the holders 360,000 shares of common stock at $0.75 per share and warrants to purchase 180,000 shares of common stock at $0.90 per share (See Note 9).


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

On April 17, 2017, the Company entered into two 7% convertible notes (the “7% Convertible Notes”) in the aggregate principal amount of $250. The 7% Convertible Notes accrue interest at 7% simple interest on the principal amount and were due on June 2, 2017. The 7% Convertible Notes were not repaid on the maturity date and as such were in default at June 30, 2017. During July 2017 these two 7% Convertible Notes were repaid (See Note 11).

On April 26, 2017, the Company entered into a 7% convertible note in the aggregate principal amount of $104. On June 28, 2017, the noteholder converted the outstanding balance into 189,091 shares of Digital Power’s common stock (See Note 11).

Between May 5, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company received additional short-term loans of $140 from four accredited investors of which $75 was from the Company’s corporate counsel, a related party. As additional consideration, the investors received five-year warrants to purchase 224,371 shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $0.77 per share.On June 28, 2017, the holders of $55 of these short-term loans cancelled their notes for the purchase of 100,001 shares of Digital Power’s common stock at a price of $0.55 per share. An additional $52 in short-term loans that was received from the related party was also converted on June 28, 2017, into one of the Series C Units (See Note 9).

Between May 24, 2017 and June 19, 2017, Digital Power entered into subscription agreements (the “Series C Subscription Agreement”) with approximately twenty accredited investors (the “Series C Investors”) in connection with the sale of twenty-one Units at a purchase price of $52 per Unit raising in the aggregate $1,092 with each Unit consisting of Series C Preferred Stock and Warrants (See Note 13).

Between July 1, 2017 and August 17, 2017, the Company received net cash proceeds of $1,505 from issuances of the Company’s debt and equity securities. Further, $268 in convertible notes were exchanged for shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 16).

The Company expects to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future and needs to raise additional capital to continue its business development initiatives and to support its working capital requirements. In March 2017, the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million purchase order by MTIX Ltd. (“MTIX") to manufacture, install and service the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“MLSE”) plasma-laser system. Management believes that the MLSE purchase order will be a source of revenue and generate significant cash flows for the Company. Management believes that the Company has access to capital resources through potential public or private issuance of debt or equity securities. If the Company is unable to raise additional capital, it may be required to curtail operations and take additional measures to reduce costs, including reducing its workforce, eliminating outside consultants and reducing legal fees in order to conserve its cash in amounts sufficient to sustain operations and meet its obligations. These matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

3. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X and do not include all the information and disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The Company has made estimates and judgments affecting the amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes.  The actual results experienced by the Company may differ materially from our estimates. The consolidated financial information is unaudited but reflects all normal adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary to provide a fair statement of results for the interim periods presented. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 10, 2017.  The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2016 was derived from the Company’s audited 2016 financial statements contained in the above referenced Form 10-K.  Results of the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year ending December 31, 2017.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

Principles of Consolidation

The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Digital Power, its wholly-owned subsidiaries, DP Limited and DP Lending and its majority-owned subsidiary, Microphase. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Accounting Estimates

The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with GAAP, requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions. The Company's management believes that the estimates, judgments and assumptions used are reasonable based upon information available at the time they are made. These estimates, judgments and assumptions can affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Key estimates include fair value of certain financial instruments, reserve for trade receivables and inventories, carrying amounts of investments, accruals of certain liabilities, and deferred income taxes and related valuation allowance.

Investments in Debt and Equity Securities

The Company classifies its investments in Avalanche International, Corp (“AVLP”), consisting of shares of common stock and debt securities, in accordance with ASC No. 320, Investment in Debt and Equity Securities (“ASC No. 320”) and ASC No. 325, Investment – Other (“ASC No. 325”). The investment in marketable securities and convertible promissory notes are both classified as “available-for-sale securities” and are carried at fair value, based on quoted market prices. Unrealized gains and losses are reported as a separate component of stockholder’s equity, accumulated other comprehensive loss. When evaluating the Company’s debt and equity investments for other-than-temporary impairment, the Company reviews factors such as the length of time and extent to which fair value has been below cost basis, the financial condition of the issuer and any changes thereto, and the Company’s intent to sell, or whether it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, the investment before recovery of the investment’s amortized cost basis. Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values (i.e., non-marketable equity securities) and are not required to be accounted for under the equity method are typically carried at cost (i.e., cost method investments), as described in ASC No. 325-20. Additionally, the investment in debt securities of AVLP qualifies for application of the fair value option in accordance with ASC No. 825.

Revenue Recognition

The Company generates revenues from the sale of its products through a direct and indirect sales force. Revenues from products are recognized in accordance with ASC No. 605, Revenue Recognition, when the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the seller's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, no further obligation exists and collectability is reasonably assured. Generally, the Company does not grant a right of return. However, certain distributors are allowed, in the six months after the initial stock purchase, to rotate stock that has not been sold for other products. Revenues subject to stock rotation rights are deferred until the products are sold to the end customer or until the rotation rights expire. Service revenues are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the service agreement. Service revenues are immaterial in proportion to the Company's revenues. 


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

Warranty

The Company offers a warranty period for all of its products. Warranty periods range from one to two years depending on the product. The Company estimates the costs that may be incurred under its warranty and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time product revenue is recognized. Factors that affect the Company's warranty liability include the number of units sold, historical rates of warranty claims and cost per claim. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liability and adjusts the amounts as necessary.

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company’s accrued warranty liability was $86.

Common Stock Purchase Warrants and Other Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company classifies common stock purchase warrants and other free standing derivative financial instruments as equity if the contracts (i) require physical settlement or net-share settlement or (ii) give the Company a choice of net-cash settlement or settlement in its own shares (physical settlement or net-share settlement). The Company classifies any contracts that (i) require net-cash settlement (including a requirement to net cash settle the contract if an event occurs and if that event is outside the control of the Company), (ii) give the counterparty a choice of net-cash settlement or settlement in shares (physical settlement or net-share settlement), or (iii) contain reset provisions as either an asset or a liability. The Company assesses classification of its freestanding derivatives at each reporting date to determine whether a change in classification between assets and liabilities is required. The Company determined that certain freestanding derivatives, which principally consist of issuance of warrants to purchase shares of common in connection with convertible notes, units and to employees of the Company, satisfy the criteria for classification as equity instruments as these warrants do not contain cash settlement features or variable settlement provision that cause them to not be indexed to the Company’s own stock.

  

Stock-Based Compensation

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC No. 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation ("ASC No. 718"718”). Under ASC No. 718, compensation expense related to stock-based payments is recorded over the requisite service period based on the grant date fair value of the awards. Compensation expense previously recorded for unvested stock options that are forfeited is reversed upon forfeiture. The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model for determining the estimated fair value for stock-based awards. The Black-Scholes model requires the use of assumptions which determine the fair value of stock-based awards, including the option’s expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock.

 

The Company’sCompany’s accounting policy for equity instruments issued to consultants and vendors in exchange for goods and services follows the provisions of ASC No. 505-50, Equity Based Payments to Non-Employees. Accordingly, the measurement date for the fair value of the equity instruments issued is determined at the earlier of (i) the date at which a commitment for performance by the consultant or vendor is reached or (ii) the date at which the consultant or vendor’s performance is complete. In the case of equity instruments issued to consultants, the fair value of the equity instrument is recognized over the term of the consulting agreement.

 

Convertible Instruments

 

The Company accounts for hybrid contracts that feature conversion options in accordance with ASC No. 815, Derivatives and Hedging Activities (“ASC No. 815”). ASC No. 815 requires companies to bifurcate conversion options from their host instruments and account for them as freestanding derivative financial instruments according to certain criteria. The criteria includes circumstances in which (a) the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative instrument are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract, (b) the hybrid instrument that embodies both the embedded derivative instrument and the host contract is not re-measured at fair value under otherwise applicable GAAP with changes in fair value reported in earnings as they occur and (c) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative instrument would be considered a derivative instrument.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

  

Conversion options that contain variable settlement features such as provisions to adjust the conversion price upon subsequent issuances of equity or equity linked securities at exercise prices more favorable than that featured in the hybrid contract generally result in their bifurcation from the host instrument.

 

The Company accounts for convertible instruments, when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should not be bifurcated from their host instruments, in accordance with ASC No. 470-20, Debt with Conversion and Other Options (“ASC No. 470-20”). Under ASC No. 470-20 the Company records, when necessary, discounts to convertible notes for the intrinsic value of conversion options embedded in debt instruments based upon the differences between the fair value of the underlying common stock at the commitment date of the note transaction and the effective conversion price embedded in the note. The Company accounts for convertible instruments (when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should be bifurcated from their host instruments) in accordance with ASC No. 815.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and trade receivables.

Cash and cash equivalents are invested in banks in the U.S., UK and Israel. Such deposits in the United States may be in excess of insured limits and are not insured in other jurisdictions.

Trade receivables of the Company and its subsidiaries are mainly derived from sales to customers located primarily in the U.S., Europe and Israel. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and to date has not experienced any material losses. An allowance for doubtful accounts is determined with respect to those amounts that the Company and its subsidiaries have determined to be doubtful of collection.

Comprehensive LossIncome (Loss)

 

The Company reports comprehensive loss in accordance with ASC No. 220, Comprehensive Income. This statement establishes standards for the reporting and presentation of comprehensive loss and its components in a full set of general purpose financial statements. Comprehensive loss generally represents all changes in equity during the period except those resulting from investments by, or distributions to, stockholders. The Company determined that its items of other comprehensive loss relate to changes in foreign currency translation adjustments.adjustments and unrealized gains and losses in its warrants in AVLP.

 

Fair value of Financial Instruments

 

In accordance with ASC No. 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received for the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date.

 

The guidance also establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputsinclude those that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability and are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company’sCompany’s assumptions about the factors that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability. The guidance establishes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

 

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

 

Level 2:Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or model-derived valuations. All significant inputs used in our valuations are observable or can be derived principally from or corroborated with observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs also include quoted prices that were adjusted for security-specific restrictions which are compared to output from internally developed models such as a discounted cash flow models.model.

 

Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

 

The carrying amounts of financial instruments carried at cost, including cash and cash equivalents, tradeaccounts receivables and tradeaccounts and other receivable – related party, investments, notes receivable, trade payables and trade payables – related party approximate their fair value due to the short-term maturities of such instruments.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

 

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the fair value of the Company’s investments were $2,582 and $1,036, respectively, and were concentrated in debt and equity securities of AVLP, a related party (See Note 4), which are classified as available-for-sale investments.  At June 30, 2017, the Company's investment in AVLP is comprised of convertible promissory notes of $2,491, net of unamortized discount, and marketable equity securities of $91. At December 31, 2016, the Company's investment in AVLP is comprised of convertible promissory notes of $952, net of unamortized discount, and marketable equity securities of $84. For investments in marketable equity securities, the Company took into consideration general market conditions, the duration and extent to which the fair value is below cost, and the Company’s ability and intent to hold the investment for a sufficient period of time to allow for recovery of value in the foreseeable future. As a result of this analysis, the Company has determined that its cost basis in AVLP equitable securities approximates the current fair value.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

Consistent with the guidance at ASC No. 835, the Company’s presumption is that the fair value of its convertible promissory notes in AVLP have a present value equivalent to the cash proceeds exchanged. Further, the discount shall be reported in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the face amount of the convertible promissory notes. Thus, the Company has determined that the amortized cost of its convertible promissory notes approximates fair value and are subject to a periodic impairment review. The interest income, including amortization of the discount arising at acquisition, for the convertible promissory notes are included in earnings. In the future, if the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis, the Company shall recognize other-than-temporary impairments in other comprehensive income (loss).

In the first quarter of 2017, the Company purchased at the market shares of common stock of three companies for a total cost of $20. In accordance with ASC No. 320-10, these investments are accounted for pursuant to the fair value method. Based upon the closing market prices of common stock for these three companies at June 30, 2017, and most recently at August 15, 2017, the Company determined that its cost basis in the shares of common stock for these companies approximates the current fair value and has concluded that its investment in marketable securities is not impaired.

 

The categorization of a financial instrument within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The following table sets forth the Company’sCompany’s financial instruments (see Note 5 and Note 10) that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy:

 

 

 

Fair Value Measurement at June 30, 2017

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

Investments – AVLP – a related party

 

$

2,582

 

 

$

91

 

 

$

2,491

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments in other companies

 

$

20

 

 

$

20

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2016

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

Investments – AVLP – a related party

 

$

1,036

 

 

$

84

 

 

$

952

 

 

$

 

  Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2020 
  Total  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3 
Investments in convertible promissory notes and
advances of AVLP and Alzamend – related
parties
 $10,668,470  $  $  $10,668,470 
Investments in common stock and derivative
instruments of AVLP – a related party
  5,486,140   499,588      4,986,552 
Investment in common stock and warrants of
Alzamend – a related party
  653,251         653,251 
Investments in marketable equity securities  2,562,983   2,562,983       
Total Investments $19,370,844  $3,062,571  $  $16,308,273 

 

  Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2019 
  Total  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3 
Investments in convertible promissory note of AVLP – a
related party
 $6,540,720  $  $  $6,540,720 
Investments in common stock and derivative instruments
of AVLP – a related party
  1,569,286   238,602      1,330,684 
Investment in common stock of Alzamend – a related
party
  558,938         558,938 
Investments in marketable equity securities  639,647   639,647       
Investments in warrants of public companies  9,174         9,174 
Total Investments $9,317,765  $878,249  $  $8,439,516 

We assess the inputs used to measure fair value using the three-tier hierarchy based on the extent to which inputs used in measuring fair value are observable in the market. See Note 10 for activity related to investments in convertible promissory notes and advances of AVLP and Alzamend – related parties, investments in common stock and derivative instruments of AVLP – a related party, and investment in common stock and warrants of Alzamend – a related party. The decline in investment in warrants of public companies was due to a decrease upon remeasurement of fair value of the underlying warrants.

Debt Discounts

 

The Company accounts for debt discount according to ASC No. 470-20, Debt with Conversion and Other Options. Debt discounts are amortized through periodic charges to interest expense over the term of the related financial instrument using the effective interest method. During the threeyears ended December 31, 2020 and six months ended June 30, 2017,2019, the Company recorded amortization of debt discounts of $397$7,251,365 and $592,$3,709,993, respectively. The Company did not recognize any debt discount during the six months ended June 30, 2016.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

 

Leases

Effective January 1, 2019, the Company accounts for its leases under ASC 842, Leases. Under this guidance, arrangements meeting the definition of a lease are classified as operating or financing leases. As of January 1, 2019, we only had operating leases. Operating leases are recognized as Right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, Operating lease liability, current, and Operating lease liability, non-current on our consolidated balance sheets. Lease assets and liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at commencement date. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of future payments. In certain of our lease agreements, we receive rent holidays and other incentives. We recognize lease costs on a straight-line basis over the lease term without regard to deferred payment terms, such as rent holidays, that defer the commencement date of required payments. Our lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Leasehold improvements are capitalized at cost and amortized over the lesser of their expected useful life or the life of the lease, without assuming renewal features, if any, are exercised. We do not separate lease and non-lease components for our leases.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

Net Loss per Share

 

Net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. The calculation of the basic and diluted earnings per share is the same for all periods presented, as the effect of the potential common stock equivalents is anti-dilutive due to the Company’sCompany’s net loss position for all periods presented. The Company has included 317,4606,500 warrants, with an exercise pricewhich are exercisable for shares of $.01,Common Stock on a one-for-one basis, in its earnings per share calculation for the threeyears ended December 31, 2020 and six months ended June 30, 2017.2019. Anti-dilutive securities, consistedwhich are convertible into or exercisable for Common Stock, consist of the following at June 30,

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Stock options

 

 

2,841,000

 

 

 

1,106,000

 

Warrants

 

 

7,426,080

 

 

 

 

Convertible notes

 

 

1,296,969

 

 

 

 

Conversion of preferred stock

 

 

4,606,131

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

16,170,180

 

 

 

1,106,000

 

Recently Issued Accounting StandardsDecember 31, 2020 and 2019:

 

  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Stock options  850,925   2,763 
Warrants (1)  3,309,060   72,518 
Convertible notes  440,862   1,252,163 
Conversion of preferred stock  2,232   2,232 
Total  4,603,079   1,329,676 

(1)         The Company has consideredexcluded 6,500 warrants issued in April 2019, which may be exercised by means of a cashless exercise into 6,500 shares of Common Stock, in its anti-dilutive securities but included the warrants in its weighted average shares outstanding.

Reclassifications

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for comparative purposes to conform to the current-year financial statement presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on previously reported results of operations. In addition, certain prior year amounts from the restated amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the current period presentation.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2018-13, Disclosure Framework – Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement, which will modify the disclosure requirements on fair value measurements in Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, including the removal of certain disclosure requirements. The amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all other recently issued accounting standardsentities for fiscal years, and doesinterim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company adopted the new disclosure requirements for the period ending March 31, 2020. The additional components of this release did not believe the adoption of such standards will have a material impact on its condensedthe Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASU 2016-13”). ASU 2016-13 changes how entities will measure credit losses for most financial assets and other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net income. This update introduces the current expected credit loss (“CECL”) model, which will require an entity to measure credit losses for certain financial instruments and financial assets, including trade receivables. Under this update, on initial recognition and at each reporting period, an entity will be required to recognize an allowance that reflects the entity’s current estimate of credit losses expected to be incurred over the life of the financial instrument. ASU 2016-13 is effective for public companies in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company has completed its evaluation process and the January 1, 2020 adoption did not have a material impact to the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“ASU 2019-12”), which is intended to simplify various aspects related to accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 removes certain exceptions to the general principles in Topic 740 and also clarifies and amends existing guidance to improve consistent application. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

4. Discontinued Operations and Deconsolidation of I.AM

On March 16, 2020, to try and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, San Diego County health officials issued orders mandating that all restaurants must end dine-in services. As a result of these temporary closures and the deteriorating business conditions at the Company’s restaurant businesses, during the first quarter of 2020, the Company concluded that discontinuing the operations of I.AM was ultimately in its best interest. In addition, during the first quarter of 2020, due to deteriorating business conditions in the cryptocurrency mining sector, the Company ceased operations at Digital Farms. The Company’s decision to cease cryptocurrency mining operations in 2020 was based several factors, which had negatively affected the number of active miners the Company operated, including the market prices of digital currencies at the time, power cost considerations available to Digital Farms, and a significant increase in the difficulty of mining blocks of cryptocurrency.

Digital Farms was established to pursue a variety of digital currencies and mined the top three cryptocurrencies for its own account. Although the Company has ceased operations at Digital Farms, since the assets and operations have not yet been abandoned, sold or distributed, these assets do not yet meet the requirement for presentation as discontinued operations. In the first quarter of 2020, management determined that the permanent closing of the restaurant operations met the criteria for presentation as discontinued operations. Accordingly, the results of the restaurant operations are presented as discontinued operations in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss and are excluded from continuing operations for all periods presented. In addition, the assets and liabilities of the restaurant operations are classified as held for sale in our consolidated balance sheets for all periods presented.

On November 2, 2020, I.AM filed a voluntary petition for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 in the United States Bankruptcy Court in the Central District of California, Santa Ana Division, case number 8:20-bk-13076. As a result of I.AM’s bankruptcy filing on November 2, 2020, Ault Global ceded authority for managing the business to the Bankruptcy Court. For this reason, the Company concluded that Ault Global had lost control of I.AM, and no longer had significant influence over I.AM. Therefore, the Company deconsolidated I.AM effective with the filing of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2020 and recorded a gain on deconsolidation of 2,358,992.

The following tables summarize the major classes of assets and liabilities included as part of discontinued operations as of December 31, 2019:

  December 31, 2019 
Current assets    
Cash and cash equivalents $5,170 
Accounts receivable  83,885 
Inventories, net  60,341 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets  131,956 
Total current assets classified as held for sale  281,352 
     
Property and equipment, net  504,802 
Right-of-use assets  1,098,466 
Total assets classified as held for sale $1,884,620 
     
Current liabilities    
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $881,601 
Operating lease liability, current  229,574 
Other current liabilities  482,375 
Total current liabilities classified as held for sale  1,593,550 
     
Long term liabilities    
Operating lease liability, non-current  951,072 
Total liabilities classified as held for sale $2,544,622 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

The restaurant operations are included in our results as discontinued operations through March 16, 2020, the date of closing of the restaurants. The following tables summarize the major classes of line items included in loss from discontinued operations:

  For the Year Ended 
  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Revenue $543,327  $4,149,646 
Cost of revenue  (160,310)  (1,149,645)
Selling and marketing     (221,813)
General and administrative  (555,445)  (4,146,815)
Impairment of property and equipment and right-of-use assets  (1,525,316)   
Impairment of Impairment of intangible assets     (610,000)
Impairment of goodwill     (265,252)
Gain on deconsolidation of I.AM  2,358,992    
Interest expense     (789)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations $661,248  $(2,244,668)

5. Marketable Securities

Marketable securities in equity securities with readily determinable market prices consisted of the following as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:

  Marketable equity securities at December 31, 2020 
     Gross unrealized Gross realized    
  Cost  gains (losses) gains (losses) Fair value 
Common shares $1,505,686  $1,083,532 $(26,235) $2,562,983 

  Marketable equity securities at December 31, 2019 
     Gross unrealized Gross realized    
  Cost  gains (losses) gains (losses) Fair value 
Common shares $423,025  $216,622 $  - $639,647 

The following table presents additional information about marketable equity securities:

  Marketable 
  Equity Securities 
Balance at January 1, 2019 $178,597 
Purchases of marketable equity securities  485,000 
Marketable equity securities received upon warrant exercise  381 
Marketable equity securities received upon conversion of preferred stock  202,145 
Sales of marketable equity securities  (580,721)
Realized gains on marketable equity securities  95,340 
Unrealized gains on marketable equity securities  258,905 
Balance at January 1, 2020 $639,647 
Purchases of marketable equity securities  1,425,341 
Sales of marketable equity securities  (373,360)
Realized gains on marketable equity securities  75,346 
Unrealized gains on marketable equity securities  796,009 
Balance at December 31, 2020 $2,562,983 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company had invested in the marketable equity securities of certain publicly traded companies. During the year ended December 31, 2020, unrealized gains of $796,009 were included in net income as a component of change in fair value of equity securities. The Company’s investment in marketable equity securities will be revalued on each balance sheet date. The fair value of the Company’s holdings in marketable equity securities at December 31, 2020 and 2019 is a Level 1 measurement based on quoted prices in an active market.

At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company also held equity investments in private companies and an investment in a limited partnership. These investments do not have readily determinable fair values and have been measured at cost less impairment, if any, and adjusted for observable price changes for identical or similar investments of the issuer.

6. INVENTORIES

At December 31, 2020 and 2019, inventories consist of:

  2020  2019 
Raw materials, parts and supplies $1,188,616  $1,522,082 
Work-in-progress  1,923,426   534,937 
Finished products  261,809   424,492 
Total inventories $3,373,851  $2,481,511 

7. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

At December 31, 2020 and 2019, property and equipment consist of:

  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Cryptocurrency machines and related equipment $567,216  $567,216 
Computer, software and related equipment  3,056,711   2,518,187 
Office furniture and equipment  489,315   441,613 
Leasehold improvements  1,352,124   1,230,407 
   5,465,366   4,757,423 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization  (3,342,636)  (2,970,030)
Property and equipment, net $2,122,730  $1,787,393 

Under the guidance of ASC 360, Impairment or Disposal of Long-lived Assets, a long-lived asset or asset group (including intangibles) will be tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. During the first quarter of 2020, based upon the deteriorating business conditions for restaurants in the San Diego County as result of the spread of COVID-19 and the decline in projected cash flows over the life of the restaurant equipment, the Company performed an undiscounted cash flow test to determine if the restaurant equipment was impaired. The undiscounted cash flows were less than the carrying amount of the Company’s restaurant equipment and therefore, the carrying amount of the assets were compared to the fair value of the restaurant equipment, and the Company determined that there were impairment charges to be recorded on the restaurant equipment. Impairment charges for the year ended December 31, 2020 were in an amount equal to the cost of the Company’s restaurant equipment, net of depreciation of $504,802, and are included as a component of net loss from discontinued operations (see Note 4).

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, depreciation expense amounted to $391,597 and $2,570,511, respectively.

8. INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET

At December 31, 2020 and 2019 intangible assets consist of:

  December 31,  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Trade name and trademark $1,551,197  $1,039,307 
Customer relationships  3,441,654   2,406,434 
Domain name and other intangible assets  689,920   641,809 
   5,682,771   4,087,550 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization  (1,292,383)  (880,562)
Intangible assets, net $4,390,388  $3,206,988 

The Company’s trade names and trademarks were determined to have an indefinite life. The remaining definite lived intangible assets are primarily being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Amortization expense was $335,776 and $502,656, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

The customer relationships are subject to amortization over their estimated useful lives, which range between 3 and 14 years. The following table presents estimated amortization expense for each of the succeeding five calendar years and thereafter.

2021  $369,790 
2022   318,793 
2023   318,793 
2024   318,793 
2025   318,793 
Thereafter   1,194,229 
   $2,839,191 

9. GOODWILL

The Company’s goodwill relates to the acquisition of a controlling interest in Microphase on June 2, 2017 and the acquisitions of Enertec on May 22, 2018, and Relec on November 30, 2020. The following table summarizes the changes in our goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:

  Goodwill 
Balance as of January 1, 2019 $8,197,818 
Impairment  (480,953)
Effect of exchange rate changes  384,082 
Balance as of December 31, 2019  8,100,947 
Acquisition of Relec  1,147,894 
Effect of exchange rate changes  396,485 
Balance as of December 31, 2020 $9,645,686 
     

F-31

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

10. INVESTMENTS – RELATED PARTIES

 

Investments in AVLP and Alzamend Neuro, Inc. (“Alzamend”) at June 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016,2020 and 2019, are comprised of the following:

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 December 31, December 31, 

 

2017

 

2016

 

 2020  2019 

Investment in convertible promissory note of AVLP

 

$

2,593

 

$

997

 

 $11,269,136  $9,595,079 
Short term advance in Alzamend  750,000    
Investment in convertible promissory note of Alzamend  50,000    
Accrued interest in convertible promissory notes of AVLP and Alzamend  2,026,812   2,025,475 
Total investment in convertible promissory note of AVLP – Gross  14,095,948   11,620,554 
Less: original issue discount  (3,870)   
Less: provision for loan losses  (3,423,608)  (5,079,834)
Total investment in convertible promissory note of AVLP and Alzamend  10,668,470   6,540,720 
        
Investment in derivative instruments of AVLP  4,986,552   1,330,684 

Investment in common stock of AVLP

 

 

91

 

 

84

 

  499,588   238,602 

Total investment in AVLP P – Gross

 

2,684

 

1,081

 

Less: original issue discount

 

 

(102

)

 

 

(45

)

Total investment in AVLP P – Net

 

$

2,582

 

$

1,036

 

Investment in common stock and warrants of Alzamend  653,251   558,938 
Investment in derivative instruments and common stock of AVLP and Alzamend  6,139,391   2,128,224 
Total investment in AVLP and Alzamend – Net $16,807,861  $8,668,944 
        
Investment in warrants and common stock of AVLP and Alzamend $6,139,391  $2,128,224 
Investment in convertible promissory notes and advances of AVLP and Alzamend  10,668,470   6,540,720 
Total investment in AVLP and Alzamend – Net $16,807,861  $8,668,944 

 

During

The following table summarizes the yearchanges in our investments in AVLP and Alzamend during the years ended December 31, 2016, the Company made a strategic decision to invest2020 and 2019:

     Investment in    
  Investment in  convertible    
  warrants and  promissory notes  Total 
  common stock  and advances  investment 
  of AVLP and  of AVLP and  in AVLP and 
  Alzamend  Alzamend  Alzamend – Net 
Balance at January 1, 2019 $3,043,499  $5,611,621  $8,655,120 
Investment in convertible promissory notes of AVLP     1,600,164   1,600,164 
Investment in common stock of AVLP and Alzamend  261,132      261,132 
Fair value of derivative instruments issued by AVLP  1,050,918      1,050,918 
Unrealized loss in derivative instruments of AVLP  (1,950,875)     (1,950,875)
Unrealized loss in common stock of AVLP and Alzamend  (276,450)     (276,450)
Provision for loan losses     (4,000,000)  (4,000,000)
Accretion of discount     2,307,777 2,307,777   2,307,777 
Accrued Interest     1,021,158   1,021,158 
Balance at December 31, 2019 $2,128,224  $6,540,720  $8,668,944 
Investment in convertible promissory notes of AVLP     1,330,283   1,330,283 
Investment in convertible promissory note of Alzamend     38,128   38,128 
Investment in common stock of AVLP and Alzamend  45,484      45,484 
Investment in warrants of Alzamend  11,872      11,872 
Short term advance in Alzamend     750,000   750,000 
Fair value of derivative instruments issued by AVLP  343,774      343,774 
Unrealized gain in derivative instruments of AVLP  

3,312,094

      3,312,094 
Unrealized gain in common stock of AVLP and
Alzamend
  297,943      297,943 
Accretion of discount     8,002   8,002 
Provision for loan losses     2,000,000   2,000,000 
Accrued Interest     1,337   1,337 
Balance at December 31, 2020 $6,139,391  $10,668,470  $16,807,861 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
DECEMBER 31, 2020

Investments in AVLP

The Company’s investments in AVLP, a related party controlled by Philou Ventures, LLC (“Philou”), an existing majority stockholder. Theaffiliate of the Company,’s investments in AVLP primarily consist of convertible promissory notes, derivative instruments and shares of AVLP common stockstock. As of AVLP.

On October 5, 2016, November 30, 2016, and February 22, 2017,December 31, 2020, the Company entered into three 12% Convertible Promissory Notes withhas provided loans to AVLP (the "AVLP Notes") in the principal amount $11,269,136 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase 22,537,871 shares of $525 each.AVLP common stock at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of five years. The warrants were determined by the issuer to be derivative financial instruments. At December 31, 2020, the Company recorded a cumulative unrealized loss on its investment in warrants of AVLP Notes includeof $1,052,162 compared to a 5%cumulative unrealized loss of $4,364,256 at December 31, 2019 representing the difference between the cost basis and the estimated fair value of the warrants in the Company’s accumulated other comprehensive income in the stockholder's equity section of the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company recognized, in other comprehensive loss, net unrealized gain on derivative securities of related party of $3,312,094 compared to a net unrealized loss on derivative securities of related party of $1,950,875 during the year ended December 31, 2019. The Company’s investment in AVLP will be revalued on each balance sheet date. The fair value of the Company’s holdings in the AVLP warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate, which ranged between 0.13% and 2.98%, was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of our investment, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor which ranged between 68.7% and 104.6% was determined based on historical stock prices for similar technology companies with market capitalizations under $100 million. The warrant valuation is a Level 3 measurement.

In accordance with ASC No. 310, Receivables (“ASC 310”), the Company had accounted for its convertible promissory notes in AVLP at amortized cost, which represents the amount at which the convertible promissory notes were acquired, adjusted for accrued interest and accretion of original issue discount resulting in net loans to AVLP of $1,500 and an original issue discount of $75. The AVLP notes accrue interest at 12% per annum and shall be due on or before two years from the origination dates of each note. At any time after six months, the Company has the right, at its option, to convert all or any portion of the principal and accrued interest into shares of common stock of AVLP at approximately $0.74536 per share. Subject to adjustment, the AVLP Notes, inclusive of the original issue discount, are convertible into 2,113,086 shares of the Company’s common stock.

The Company has funded $970 in excess of the $1,500 net loan amount required pursuant to the terms of the AVLP Notes. The Company and AVLP have agreed that these additional advances shall feature terms mirroring those of the AVLP Notes, including 12% annual interest and an original issue discount of 5%; however, in addition to these terms, the Company and AVLP are in the process of finalizing additional terms that will be incorporated into a new convertible promissory note agreement.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

The original issue discount of $123 on the AVLP Notes, inclusive of the original issue discount attributed to the $970 loaned in excessfair value of the AVLP Notes, is being amortized as interest income throughwarrants that the maturity dateCompany received in conjunction with its investment. Interest was accreted using the effective interest rate method. The Company recorded interest on an accrual basis and recognized it as earned in accordance with the contractual terms of the convertible promissory notes, to the extent that such amounts are expected to be collected. During the three and six monthsyear ended June 30, 2017,December 31, 2019, the Company recorded $12 and $19, respectively,$2,307,777 of interest income for the discount accretion. Asaccretion and $1,021,158 of June 30, 2017 andinterest income from the contractual 12% rate provided for by the convertible promissory notes. During the years ended December 31, 2016,2020, no interest income was recognized from the Company recorded contractual interest receivable attributed to the AVLP Notes of $93 and $13, respectively.Company’s investment in AVLP.

 

The Company has classifiedevaluated the collectability of both interest and principal for the convertible promissory notes in AVLP Notes as Available-for-Sale securities, subjectto determine whether there was an impairment. Based on current information and events, primarily the value of the underlying conversion feature and current economic events, the Company concluded that an impairment existed at December 31, 2019. At December 31, 2020, the Company determined that the fair value of the convertible promissory notes in AVLP was approximately $9,872,340. The Company’s determination of fair value was based upon the estimated present value of a future liquidity event combined with the closing price of AVLP’s common stock at December 31, 2020. Impairment assessments require significant judgments and are based on significant assumptions related to the guidanceborrower’s credit risk, financial performance, expected sales, and estimated fair value of the collateral.

During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company acquired 5,000 shares of AVLP common stock for $1,274 and 91,000 shares of AVLP common stock for $53,032, respectively, in ASC No. 320. The Company elected to applyeach case in the Fair Value Option Subsections of Subtopic 320-10 and 825-10 to the AVLP Notes.open market. At June 30, 2017, the closing market price of AVLP’s common Stock was $0.17. Subsequent to quarter-end,December 31, 2020, the closing market price of AVLP’s common stock was $0.50, an increase from $0.24 at December 31, 2019. The Company has determined that its investment in AVLP marketable equity securities should be accounted for in accordance with ASC No. 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures. Based upon the rangeclosing market price of $0.17 and $ 0.38 and due toAVLP common stock at December 31, 2020, the illiquidity and significant volatilityCompany’s investment in AVLP common stock had an unrealized loss of $248,248. 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

In aggregate, the Company has 999,175 shares of AVLP common stock which represents 18.0% of AVLP’s outstanding shares of common stock,stock. The Company has determined that AVLP is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) as it does not have sufficient equity at risk. The Company does not consolidate AVLP because the Company is not the primary beneficiary and does not have a controlling financial interest. To be a primary beneficiary, an entity must have the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, among other factors. Although the Company has made a significant investment in AVLP, the Company has determined that Philou, which controls AVLP through the voting power conferred by its cost basisequity investment and which is deemed to be more closely associated with AVLP, is the primary beneficiary. As a result, AVLP’s financial position and results of operations are not consolidated in AVLP common stock approximates the current fair value.our financial position and results of operations.

Investments in Alzamend

 

The Company’s investments in Alzamend, a related party, consist of a convertible promissory note, short-term advance, warrants and shares of Alzamend common stock. At December 31, 2020, the Company has concluded that indicatorsprovided Alzamend a short-term advance of impairment, including those described$750,000 and invested $50,000 in ASC No. 320-10-35-27, do not currently exist foran 8% convertible promissory note. In conjunction with the Company’s investment in debt and equity securitiesissuance of AVLP.

5. ACQUISITION

Microphase Corporation

On April 28, 2017,the 8% convertible promissory note, Alzamend issued to the Company entered into a Share Exchange Agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”) with Microphase; Microphase Holding Company LLC, a limited liability company organized under the lawswarrants to purchase 16,667 shares of Connecticut (“MHC”), Ergul Family Limited Partnership, a partnership organized under the laws of Connecticut (“EFLP”) RCKJ Trust, a trust organized under the laws of New Jersey (“RCKJ” and with MHC and EFLP, the “Significant Stockholders”) and those additional persons who have executed the Agreement (collectively, the “Minority Stockholders” and with the Significant Stockholders, the “Stockholders”).  Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Agreement, the Company acquired 1,603,434 shares (the “Subject Shares”) of the issued and outstandingAlzamend common stock of Microphase (the “MPC Common Stock”), from the Stockholders in exchange (the “Exchange”) for the issuance by the Company of 1,842,448 shares of Digital Power common stock (“Common Stock”) and 378,776 shares of Digital Power Series D Preferred Stock (collectively, the “Exchange Shares”), which shares of Digital Power Series D Preferred Stock are, subject to shareholder approval, convertible intoat an aggregate of 757,552 shares of Common Stock and warrants (the “Exchange Warrants”) to purchase an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock (the “Warrant Shares”).  The Exchange Shares and the Exchange Warrants are at times collectively referred to herein as the “Exchange Securities.” At the time of the closing of the acquisition the Exchange Shares constituted 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation. The operating results of Microphase from the closing date of the acquisition, June 2, 2017, through June 30, 2017, are included in the consolidated financial statements.

At closing, the purchaseexercise price of Digital Power’s 56.4% interest in Microphase was determined to be $1,451, comprised$3.00 per share for a period of the Exchange Shares, valued at $1,222, and the Exchange warrants, valued at $229. The value assigned to the Exchange Shares was based on the closing price of the Common Stock on June 2, 2017.five years. The Company computed the fair value of thesethe warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded discount in the amount of $11,872 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. At December 31, 2020, the Company recorded a cumulative unrealized loss on its investment in warrants of Alzamend of $453, representing the difference between the cost basis and the estimated fair value of the warrants in the Company’s net loss from continuing operations on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. The Company’s investment in Alzamend will be revalued on each balance sheet date. The fair value of the Company’s holdings in the Alzamend warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 0.28% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of our investment, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 103.7% was determined based on historical stock prices for similar companies with market capitalizations under $100 million. The warrant valuation is a Level 3 measurement.

In accordance with ASC No. 310, Receivables (“ASC 310”), the Company had accounted for its convertible promissory notes in Alzamend at amortized cost, which represents the amount at which the convertible promissory notes were acquired, adjusted for accrued interest and accretion of the discount attributed to the fair value of the warrants that the Company received in conjunction with its investment. Interest was accreted using the effective interest method. The Company recorded interest on an accrual basis and recognized it as earned in accordance with the contractual terms of the convertible promissory notes, to the extent that such amounts are expected to be collected. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company recorded $8,002 of interest income for the discount accretion and $1,337 of interest income from the contractual 8% rate provided for by the convertible promissory notes.

 

The acquisitionCompany evaluated the collectability of Microphaseboth interest and principal for the convertible promissory notes in Alzamend to determine whether there was an impairment. Based on current information and events, primarily the value of the underlying conversion feature and current economic events, the Company concluded that no impairment existed at December 31, 2020.

During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company also acquired 55,263 shares of Alzamend common stock for $44,210 and 372,625 shares of Alzamend common stock for $208,100, respectively. At December 31, 2020, the estimated fair value of Alzamend’s common stock was $1.50. The Company has determined that its investment in Alzamend marketable equity securities should be accounted for in accordance with ASC No. 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures and based upon the estimated fair value of Alzamend common stock at December 31, 2020, the Company’s investment in Alzamend common stock had an unrealized gain of $389,522.

11. INVESTMENTS IN LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

On June 8, 2018, the Company entered into a limited partnership agreement, in which it agreed to become a limited partner in the partnership (the “NY Partnership”). The NY Partnership is beinga limited partner in the partnership that is responsible for the construction and related activities of a hotel in New York City. In connection with this transaction, the Company has agreed to finance a portion of the capital required by the NY Partnership. As of December 31, 2020, the Company had invested an aggregate of $1,869,000 in the NY Partnership. The Company has no further required funding obligations related to the hotel.

F-34

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

12. OTHER INVESTMENTS, RELATED PARTIES

The Company’s other related party investments primarily consist of two investments.

MTIX, Ltd.

On December 5, 2017, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with WT Johnson pursuant to which the Company issued to WT Johnson two convertible promissory notes in the principal amounts of $600,000 (“Note A”) and $1,667,766 (“Note B”), in exchange for cancellation of amounts due to WT Johnson by MTIX Ltd., a related party of the Company.

During December 2017, the Company issued 750 shares of its common stock to WT Johnson & Sons upon the conversion of Note A and WT Johnson subsequently sold the 750 shares. The proceeds from the sale of shares of common stock received upon the conversion of Note A were sufficient to satisfy the entire $2,267,766 obligation as well as an additional $400,500 of value added tax due to WT Johnson. Concurrent with entering into the exchange agreement, the Company received a promissory note in the amount of $2,668,266 from MTIX and cancelled Note B. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company has valued the note receivable at $600,000, the carrying amount of Note A. The Company will recognize the remainder of the amount due from MTIX upon payment of the promissory note by MTIX.

Israeli Property

During the year ended December 31, 2017, our former President, Amos Kohn, purchased certain real property that serves as a facility for the Company’s business operations in Israel. The Company made $300,000 of payments to the seller of the property and received a 28% undivided interest in the real property (the “Property”). The Company’s subsidiary, Coolisys Technologies, Inc., entered into a Trust Agreement and Tenancy in Common Agreement with Roni Kohn, who owns a 72% interest in the Property, the daughter of Mr. Kohn and an Israeli citizen. The Property was purchased to serve as a residence/office facility for the Company in order to oversee its Israeli operations and to expand its business in the high-tech industry located in Israel. Pursuant to the Trust Agreement, Ms. Kohn will hold and manage Coolisys’ undivided 28% interest in the Property. The trust will be in effect until it is terminated by mutual agreement of the parties. During the term of the trust, Ms. Kohn will not sell, lease, sublease, transfer, grant, encumber, change or effect any other disposition with respect to the Property or Coolisys’ interest without the Company’s approval.

Under the Tenancy in Common Agreement, Coolisys and its executive officers shall have the exclusive rights to use the Property for the Company and its affiliates’ business operations. The Property shall be managed by Ms. Kohn. Further, pursuant to the Tenancy in Common Agreement, for each completed calendar month of employment of Mr. Kohn by the Company, Ms. Kohn shall have the right to purchase a portion of the Company’s interest in the Property. Such right shall fully vest at the end of five years of continuous employment and the Trustee shall have the right to purchase the Company’s 28% interest in the Property for a nominal price. The Company will amortize its $300,000 investment over the ten-year right of use period, subject to a cliff vesting after five years. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company recognized $30,000 in amortization expense. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the unamortized balance of the Israeli Property was $202,500 and $232,500, respectively. If Mr. Kohn is not employed by the Company, the Company shall have the right to demand that Ms. Kohn purchase the Company’s remaining interest in the Property that was not subject to vesting for the fair market value of such unvested Property interest.

13. ACQUISITIONS

Business combinations are accounted for under the purchaseacquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC No. 805,Business Combinations. Under the purchaseacquisition method, assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair values. Goodwill is recorded to the extent the purchase price exceeds the fair value of the net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired less liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.

 


AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)Acquisition during 2020

JUNE

Relec Electronics Ltd

On November 9, 2020, GWW entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”) with Tabard Holdings Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of GWW (“Tabard”), the legal and beneficial owners (the “Sellers”) of 100% of the issued shares in the capital of Relec Electronics Ltd., a corporation organized under the laws of England and Wales (“Relec”), and Peter Lappin, in his capacity as the representative of the Sellers (the “Sellers’ Representative”). Relec was established in 1978 and provides specialist power conversion and display products. The acquisition of Relec expands GWW’s product offering and geographic reach. On November 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share2020, the acquisition of Relec closed for an aggregate cash purchase price of $3,765,084, net of cash acquired, of which $3,627,534 had been paid at December 31, 2020. Pursuant to the Agreement, Tabard may be required to pay the Sellers a maximum of £500,000, or approximately $667,000, during 2021, 2022 and per share data2023. These earn-out payments are based on a combination of Relec’s gross margin and its minimum earnings before income taxes, depreciation and amortization.

 

Upon initial measurement, components of the purchase price are as follows:

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

11

 

Accounts receivable, net

 

 

439

 

Inventories, net

 

 

667

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

139

 

Restricted cash

 

 

100

 

Intangible assets

 

 

95

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

93

 

Other investments

 

 

303

 

Deposits and loans

 

 

44

 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

 

(1,680

)

Revolving credit facility

 

 

(880

)

Notes payable

 

 

(2,204

)

Notes payable, related parties

 

 

(406

)

Convertible notes payable

 

 

0

 

Other current liabilities

 

 

(327

)

Net liabilities assumed

 

 

(3,606

)

Goodwill

 

 

6,002

 

Minority interest

 

 

(945

)

Purchase price

 

$

1,451

 

  Relec 
 Accounts receivable $632,910 
 Prepaid and other current assets  53,127 
 Inventories, net  993,968 
 Property and equipment  94,167 
 Customer relationships  900,000 
 Trade name  500,000 
 Accounts payable and accrued expenses  (556,982)
 Net assets acquired  2,617,190 
 Goodwill  

1,147,894

 
 Purchase price $

3,765,084

 

 

The following pro forma data summarizes the results of operations for the periods indicated as if the Microphase acquisition had been completed as of the beginning of each period presented. The pro forma data gives effect to actual operating results prior to the acquisition. These pro forma amounts do not purport to be indicative of the results that would have actually been obtained if the acquisition occurred as of the beginning of each period presented or that may be obtained in future periods:

 

 

For the Three Months Ended June 30,

 

 

For the Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

 

$

2,714

 

 

$

4,017

 

 

$

5,408

 

 

$

7,848

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(1,924

)

 

$

(651

)

 

$

(4,076

)

 

$

(1,099

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest

 

 

127

 

 

 

313

 

 

 

632

 

 

 

424

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss attributable to Digital Power Corp

 

$

(1,797

)

 

$

(338

)

 

$

(3,444

)

 

$

(675

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred deemed dividends

 

 

(319

)

 

 

 

 

 

(319

)

 

 

 

Preferred dividends

 

 

(8

)

 

 

 

 

 

(8

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss available to common shareholders

 

$

(2,124

)

 

$

(338

)

 

$

(3,771

)

 

$

(675

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 

$

(0.17

)

 

$

(0.04

)

 

$

(0.33

)

 

$

(0.08

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

 

 

12,310,106

 

 

 

8,618,419

 

 

 

11,273,393

 

 

 

8,618,419

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive Loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss available to common shareholders

 

$

(2,124

)

 

$

(338

)

 

$

(3,771

)

 

$

(675

)

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in net foreign currency translation adjustments

 

 

78

 

 

 

(152

)

 

 

99

 

 

 

(210

)

Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale, net of income taxes

 

 

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

130

 

 

 

18

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

78

 

 

 

(152

)

 

 

229

 

 

 

(192

)

Total Comprehensive loss

 

$

(2,046

)

 

$

(490

)

 

$

(3,542

)

 

$

(867

)


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

6.14. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

Under the Company's 2018 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2018 Plan”), 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”), 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016“2016 Plan”) and the 2012 Stock Option Plan, as amended (the “2012“2012 Plan”) (collectively, the “Plans”“Plans”), options may be granted to employees, officers, consultants, service providers and directors of the Company. On July 19, 2019, the Company’s stockholders approved an amendment to the 2018 Plan which increased the number of shares of the Company’s common stock that may be issued thereunder to a total of 175,000 shares. The Plans, as amended, provide for the issuance of a maximum of 5,372,630184,216 shares of the Company’s common stock. The Company also has 206,000 outstanding options that were granted between 2009 and 2011 pursuant to the terms of the Company's 2002 Stock Option Plan (the “2002 Plan”). Options granted pursuant to the 2002 Plan expire between September 2008 and February 2021.

 

Options granted under the Plans have an exercise price equal to or greater than the fair value of the underlying common stock at the date of grant and become exercisable based on a vesting schedule determined at the date of grant. Typically, options granted generally become fully vested after four years. Any options that are forfeited or cancelled before expiration become available for future grants. The options expire between 5 and 10 years from the date of grant. Restricted stock awards granted under the Plans are subject to a vesting period determined at the date of grant. As of June 30, 2017,December 31, 2020, an aggregate of 1,781,4776,693 of the Company's options are still available for future grant.

 

During the threeyears ended December 31, 2020 and six months ended June 30, 2017,2019, the Company did not grant any options under the Plans. Generally, options granted nil and 510,000 options, respectively, fromunder the Plans to its employees at an average exercise price of $0.60 per share.  These options become fully vested after four years. The Company estimated that the grant date fair value of these options was $229, which is being recognized as stock-based compensation expense over the requisite four-year service period. During the three monthsyears ended June 30, 2017,December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company also issued 956,153102,500 and 69,375, respectively, shares of common stock to its consultants and service providers pursuant to the 2016 Plan.providers. The Company estimated that the grant date fair value of these shares of common stock was $499,amounted to $182,575 and $338,619 respectively, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance. The Company did not grant any options or restricted stock awards during the six months ended June 30, 2016.

The Company has valued the options at their date of grant utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  This model is dependent upon several variables such as the options’ term, exercise price, current stock price, risk-free interest rate estimated over the expected term and estimated volatility of our stock over the expected term of the options. The risk-free interest rate used in the calculations is based on the implied yield available on U.S. Treasury issues with an equivalent term approximating the expected life of the options as calculated using the simplified method. The estimated volatility was determined based on the historical volatility of our common stock.

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, the Company estimated the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:

 

 

June 30, 2017

 

Weighted average risk free interest rate

 

 

1.89% — 2.14

%

Weighted average life (in years)

 

 

5.0

 

Volatility

 

 

98.41% — 98.55

%

Expected dividend yield

 

 

0

%

Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of options granted

 

$

0.45

 


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

 

The options outstanding as of June 30, 2017,December 31, 2020, have been classified by exercise price, as follows:

 

Outstanding

 

 

Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remaining

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

Exercise

 

Number

 

 

Contractual

 

 

Exercise

 

 

Number

 

 

Exercise

 

Price

 

Outstanding

 

 

Life (Years)

 

 

Price

 

 

Exercisable

 

 

Price

 

$0.60 - $0.79

 

 

2,375,000

 

 

 

9.38

 

 

$

0.66

 

 

 

1,246,667

 

 

$

0.66

 

$1.10 - $1.32

 

 

25,000

 

 

 

6.35

 

 

$

1.28

 

 

 

15,000

 

 

$

1.25

 

$1.51 - $1.69

 

 

441,000

 

 

 

5.36

 

 

$

1.61

 

 

 

378,500

 

 

$

1.60

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$0.60 - 1.69

 

 

2,841,000

 

 

 

8.73

 

 

$

1.10

 

 

 

1,640,167

 

 

$

0.88

 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

Outstanding Exercisable 
     Weighted          
     Average  Weighted     Weighted 
     Remaining  Average     Average 
Exercise Number  Contractual  Exercise  Number  Exercise 
Price Outstanding  Life (Years)  Price  Exercisable  Price 
$480 - $560  894   4.95  $537.34   592  $534.25 
$1,208 - $1,352  31   2.63  $1,339.20   31  $1,339.20 
$480 - $1,352  925   4.87  $564.43   623  $574.60 
                     
Issuances outside of Plans
$1.79  850,000   9.72  $1.79   0  $0.00 
                     
Total Options 
$480 - 1,856  850,925   9.71  $2.40   623  $574.60 

On December 31, 2020 and 2019, the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding was $2,176,000 and nil, respectively. On December 31, 2020 and 2019, there was no aggregate intrinsic value of stock options that were exercisable. The intrinsic value for stock options is calculated based on the exercise price of the underlying awards and the fair value of the Company’s common stock as of the period-end date.

 

The total stock-based compensation expense related to stock options and restricted stock awards issued pursuant to the Plans to the Company’sCompany’s employees, consultants and directors, included in reported net loss for the threeyears ended December 31, 2020 and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016,2019, is comprised as follows:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30, 2017

 

 

June 30, 2016

 

 

June 30, 2017

 

 

June 30, 2016

 

Cost of revenues

 

$

3

 

 

$

2

 

 

$

4

 

 

$

4

 

Engineering and product development

 

 

6

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

2

 

Selling and marketing

 

 

6

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

8

 

General and administrative

 

 

557

 

 

 

36

 

 

 

668

 

 

 

73

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total stock-based compensation

 

$

572

 

 

$

43

 

 

$

696

 

 

$

87

 

  Year Ended December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Stock-based compensation from Plans $260,033  $715,877 
Stock-based compensation from issuances outside of Plans  32,250   868,114 
Total Stock-based compensation $292,283  $1,583,991 

 

The combination of stock-based compensation of $696 from the issuances of equity based awards pursuant to the Plans and stock-based compensation attributed to restricted stock awards of $10 and warrants of $46, which were issued outside of the Plans, resulted in aggregate stock-based compensation of $752 during the six months ended June 30, 2017. During the three months ended June 30, 2017, aggregate stock-based compensation was $595, which consisted of $572 from the issuances of equity based awards pursuant to the Plans and stock-based compensation attributed to warrants of $23, which were issued outside of the Plans. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2016, the only stock-based compensation expense was from issuances pursuant to the Plans.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

 

A summary of option activity under the Company's stock option plans as of June 30, 2017,December 31, 2020 and 2019, and changes during the six monthsyears ended are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding Options

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

Remaining

 

 

Aggregate

 

 

 

Available

 

 

Number

 

 

Exercise

 

 

Contractual

 

 

Intrinsic

 

 

 

for Grant

 

 

of Shares

 

 

Price

 

 

Life (years)

 

 

Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2016

 

 

3,247,630

 

 

 

2,331,000

 

 

$

0.83

 

 

 

9.08

 

 

$

0

 

Restricted stock awards

 

 

(956,153

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grants

 

 

(510,000

)

 

 

510,000

 

 

$

0.60

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30, 2017

 

 

1,781,477

 

 

 

2,841,000

 

 

$

0.81

 

 

 

8.73

 

 

$

148

 

       Outstanding Options 
              Weighted     
          Weighted  Average     
  Shares      Average  Remaining  Aggregate 
  Available  Number  Exercise   Contractual  Intrinsic 
  for Grant  of Shares  Price  Life (years)   Value 
January 1, 2019  12,695   4,328  $576.40   7.52  $0 
Amendment to 2018
SIP
  162,500                
Restricted stock awards  (75,000)               
Forfeited 1  2910   (2,940) $853.47         
January 1, 2020  103,105   1,388  $636.47   6.33  $0 
Restricted stock awards  (96,875)               
Forfeited  463   (463) $780.54         
December 31, 2020  6,693   925  $564.43   4.87  $0 

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in1 Includes options that were issued pursuant to the table above represents the total intrinsic value (the difference between the Company's closing stock price on June 30, 2017, $0.72Company’s 2002 Plan and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money-options).are not available for future issuance.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

As of June 30, 2017,December 31, 2020, there was $524$122,613 of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock-based compensation arrangements granted under the Company's stock option plans.Plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.21.61 years.

 

On December 31, 2020, Enertec issued Zvika Avni, the Chief Executive Officer of Enertec, a warrant to purchase 27,889 shares of Enertec common stock, at an exercise price per share of $0.01. On the date of issuance 251,000 shares of Enertec common stock were issued and outstanding. The warrant is immediately exercisable with a ten-year life. The stock-based compensation expense related to the warrant included in reported net loss for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $813,405, based on the estimated fair value of the warrant on the date of issuance. The estimated fair value of the warrant was based on observable market prices of the Company’s stock and extrapolated to Enertec based upon its relative fair value within the Company as determined by equal weighting of revenues, operating income, and net tangible assets between the Company’s subsidiaries.

7.15. WARRANTS 

 

During the six monthsyears ended December 31, 2020 and ended June 30, 2017,2019, the Company issued a total of 5,567,9547,542,987 warrants at an average exercise price of $0.89$2.64 per share.  These

Warrant issuances included:during 2019

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company issued a total of 759,443 warrants at an average exercise price of $10.28 per share.

 

(i)

Between May 24, 2017 and June 19, 2017,On April 2, 2019, the Company issued warrants to purchase 1,820,002an aggregate of 388,888 shares of common stockCommon Stock at an initial exercise price of $18.00 per share and (the “Common Warrants”) and (b) pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 317,500 shares of Common Stock at an initial exercise price of $0.40 per share (the “Pre-Funded Warrants”) in connection with an underwriting agreement with A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners (the “Underwriter”). In addition, the Company has also issued the Underwriter a warrant to purchase a maximum of 15,555 additional shares of Common Stock at an initial exercise price of $19.80 per share (see Note 24).

(ii)On May 20, 2019, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 12,500 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $12.00 per share of Common Stock in connection with the saleissuance of twenty-one Units at a purchase price of $52 per Unit raising4% Convertible Promissory Note in the aggregate $1,092. Each Unit consistedprincipal amount of 21,667$660,000 (see Note 21).

(iii)On July 3, 2019, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 25,000 shares of Series C PreferredCommon Stock and Warrantsat an exercise price equal to $8.80 per share of Common Stock in connection with the issuance of a 12% Convertible Promissory Note in the aggregate principal amount of $1,492,000.

Warrant issuances during 2020

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued a total of 6,783,544 warrants at an average exercise price of $1.79 per share.

(i)On February 20, 2020, pursuant to the Master Exchange Agreement, the Company issued warrants to purchase 86,667an aggregate of 1,700,361 shares of Common Stock at an average exercise price equal to $1.43 per share of Common Stock (see Note 19).

(ii)During the year ended December 30, 2020, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,536,655 shares of Common Stock at an average exercise price equal to $1.43 per share of Common Stock in connection with the issuance of the Esousa 12% short-term promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $2,000,000 (see Note 19).

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

(iii)On April 13, 2020, the Company issued warrants to purchase up to 157,143 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $1.17 per share of Common Stock in connection with the issuance of a 10% Convertible Promissory Note in the principal amount of $100,000 (see Note 21).

(iv)On May 28, 2020, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 400,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $1.07 per share of Common Stock in connection with the issuance of a promissory note in the principal amount of $200,000 (see Note 19).

(v)On June 26, 2020, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 361,991 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to $2.43 per share of Common Stock in connection with the issuance of promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $800,000 (see Note 19).

Warrant issuances during 2020 requiring shareholder approval

Rule 713 of the NYSE American, the national securities exchange on which the Common Stock is listed, requires stockholder approval of a transaction, other than a public offering, involving the sale, issuance or potential issuance by an issuer of Common Stock (or securities convertible into or exercisable for Common Stock) at a price less than the greater of book or market value which together with sales by officers, directors or principal stockholders of the issuer equals 20% or more of presently outstanding Common Stock, or equal to 20% or more of presently outstanding stock for less than the greater of book or market value of the stock, or when the issuance or potential issuance of additional shares will result in a change of control of the issuer. Accordingly, absent shareholder approval, the holders of warrants issued between October 22, 2020 and November 19, 2020 to purchase an aggregate of 2,627,394 shares of Common Stock are prohibited from exercising the warrants and receiving shares of Common Stock unless stockholder approval is obtained for the warrants. The Company anticipates seeking stockholder approval for the exercise of all the warrants during the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

(vi)On October 22, 2020, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 729,927 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $1.00 per share of common stock (See Note 13).

(ii)

The Company engaged Divine Capital Markets, LLC (“Divine”)equal to act as Placement Agent (the “Placement Agent”) for the private placement of the Units. For its services, the Placement Agent received, in addition to a 10.0% commission on the sale of each Unit and a 3.0% non-refundable expense allowance, warrants to purchase 10% of the Units sold at 120% of the Unit purchase price. The warrant to purchase 2.1 Units equates to a warrant to purchase 182,003 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.72 per share and a second warrant to purchase 182,003 shares of the Company’s common stock at $1.00 per share.

(iii)

Between March 24, 2017 and June 2, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 1,428,572 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $0.70 per share of common stock, in connection with the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreements to purchase 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock by Philou (See Note 13).

(iv)

On June 2, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 1,000,000 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $1.10 per share of common stock, pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement (See Note 5).


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

(v)

On April 5, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 180,002 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $0.90 per share of common stock, in connection with the cancellation of $270 in demand promissory notes (See Note 9).

(vi)

On April 17, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 166,668 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $0.90 per share of common stock, in connection with the issuance of two 7% convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $250 (See Note 11).

(vii)

Between May 5, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 224,371 shares of common stock in connection with the issuance of short-term loans of $140 that the Company entered into with four accredited investors (See Note 9) of which $75 was from the Company’s corporate counsel, a related party. The exercise price was $0.75 per share of common stock for 135,909 warrants and $0.80 per share of common stock for the remaining 88,462 warrants.

(viii)

On April 26, 2017, the Company issued warrants to purchase 160,000 shares of common stock, at an exercise price of $0.80$3.01 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of a 7% convertiblepromissory note in the aggregate principal face amount of $104 (See$2,000,000 (see Note 11)19).

 

(ix)

(vii)

WarrantsOn October 27, 2020, the Company issued warrants to purchase 333,333an aggregate of 425,000 shares of common stock issuedat an exercise price equal to $2.20 per share of common stock in connection with the $400issuance of 6% demand promissory notes entered into byin the Company in February 2017 (Seeaggregate principal face amount of $850,000 (see Note 9)19).

 

(viii)On October 27, 2020, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 148,936 shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $2.59 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $350,000 (see Note 19).

(ix)On November 19, 2020, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,323,531 shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $1.87 per share of common stock in connection with the issuance of promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $2,250,000 (see Note 19).

The following table summarizes information about common stock warrants outstanding at June 30, 2017:December 31, 2020:

 

Outstanding  Exercisable
     Weighted         
     Average  Weighted     Weighted
     Remaining  Average     Average
Exercise Number  Contractual  Exercise  Number  Exercise
Price Outstanding  Life (Years)  Price  Exercisable  Price
$—  6,500   3.25  $   6,500  $—
$0.88 - $1.91  3,237,016   4.30  $1.43   3,237,016   $0.88 - $1.91
$8.00 - $19.80  53,452   3.37  $12.74   53,452   $8.00 - $19.80
$440 - $920  16,225   2.19  $733.40   16,225   $440 - $920
$1,040 - $2,000  2,367   2.18  $1,404.85   2,367   $1,040 - $2,000
$0.88 - $2,000  3,315,560   4.27  $6.19   3,315,560  $6.19

 

Outstanding

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remaining

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

Exercise

 

Number

 

 

Contractual

 

 

Exercise

 

 

Number

 

 

Exercise

 

Price

 

Outstanding

 

 

Life (Years)

 

 

Price

 

 

Exercisable

 

 

Price

 

$0.01

 

 

317,460

 

 

 

9.35

 

 

$

0.01

 

 

 

79,364

 

 

$

0.01

 

$0.70

 

 

1,761,905

 

 

 

5.20

 

 

$

0.70

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$0.72

 

 

182,003

 

 

 

4.97

 

 

$

0.72

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$0.75

 

 

135,909

 

 

 

4.88

 

 

$

0.75

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$0.80

 

 

1,415,128

 

 

 

2.80

 

 

$

0.80

 

 

 

1,166,666

 

 

$

0.80

 

$0.90

 

 

611,670

 

 

 

3.85

 

 

$

0.90

 

 

 

265,000

 

 

$

0.90

 

$1.00

 

 

2,002,005

 

 

 

4.93

 

 

$

1.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$1.10

 

 

1,000,000

 

 

 

2.92

 

 

$

1.10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$0.01 - 1.10

 

 

7,426,080

 

 

 

4.42

 

 

$

0.84

 

 

 

1,511,030

 

 

$

0.78

 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

The Company has valued the warrants at their date of grant utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model. This model is dependent upon several variables such as the warrants’ term, exercise price, current stock price, risk-free interest rate and estimated volatility of our stock over the contractual term of the options.warrants. The risk-free interest rate used in the calculations is based on the implied yield available on U.S. Treasury issues with an equivalent term approximating the contractual life of the warrants.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

 

The Company utilized the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the assumptions used during the six monthsyears ended June 30, 2017:December 31, 2020 and 2019:

 

 Year Ended 

 

June 30, 2017

 

 December 31, 2020  December 31, 2019 

Weighted average risk free interest rate

 

1.42% — 2.01

%

  0.12% — 1.38%   1.75% — 2.28% 

Weighted average life (in years)

 

4.8

 

  1.42 — 5   5.0 

Volatility

 

98.5% — 107.1

%

  86.3% — 104.6   85.5% —87.5% 

Expected dividend yield

 

0

%

  0%  0%

Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of warrants granted

 

$

0.38

 

 $1.21  $10.34 

 

8. REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY

16. OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

MicrophaseOther current liabilities at December 31, 2020 and 2019 consist of:

  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Accrued payroll and payroll taxes $1,411,728  $1,237,054 
Warranty liability  90,640   80,412 
Other accrued expenses  287,457   218,380 
  $1,789,825  $1,535,846 

17. LEASES

We have operating leases for office space and restaurant locations. Our leases have remaining lease terms of 2 months to 11 years, some of which may include options to extend the leases perpetually, and some of which may include options to terminate the leases within 1 year.

The following table provides a summary of leases by balance sheet category as of December 31, 2020:

  December 31, 2020 
Operating right-of-use assets $4,317,778 
Operating lease liability - current  524,326 
Operating lease liability - non-current  3,854,573 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

The components of lease expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020, were as follows:

  Year Ended 
  December 31, 2020 
Operating lease cost $951,196 
Short-term lease cost  - 
Variable lease cost  106,927 

The following tables provides a summary of other information related to leases for the year ended December 31, 2020:

  December 31, 2020 
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:    
Operating cash flows from operating leases $1,024,478 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities $- 
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases   7.3 years 
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases  10%

Maturity of lease liabilities under our non-cancellable operating leases as of December 31, 2020, are as follows:

Payments due by period   
2021 $938,240 
2022  929,925 
2023  952,526 
2024  914,693 
2025  697,692 
Thereafter  1,793,975 
Total lease payments  6,227,051 
Less interest  (1,848,152)
Present value of lease liabilities $4,378,899 

18. ADVANCES ON FUTURE RECEIPTS

Advances on future receipts as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 were nil and $2,210,392. Future receipts include cash, check, ACH, credit card, debit card, bank card, charge card or other form of monetary payment. The Agreements on Future Receipts had been personally guaranteed by the Company’s Executive Chairman and in one instance had also been guaranteed by Philou. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, non-cash interest expense of $86,506 and $495,361, respectively, was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts that were recognized at inception of the agreements based primarily upon the difference between the amount of future receipts sold and the actual proceeds received.

19. NOTES PAYABLE

Notes Payable at December 31, 2020 and 2019, are comprised of the following.

  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Esousa purchased notes $-  $2,828,323 
Esousa additional purchased notes  200,000   632,000 
Other short-term notes payable  1,088,899   1,050,339 
Notes payable to Wells Fargo  182,615   290,560 
Note payable to Dept. of Economic and Community Development  196,597   229,096 
Paycheck Protection Program Loans  1,162,302    
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan  150,000    
Enertec Short term bank credit  1,404,096   1,622,337 
Total notes payable  4,384,509   6,652,655 
Less:        
Unamortized debt discounts     (29,348)
Unamortized financing cost     (3,668)
Total notes payable, net of financing cost  4,384,509   6,619,639 
Less: current portion  (4,048,009)  (6,137,015)
Notes payable – long-term portion $336,500  $482,624 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

Master Exchange Agreement

On February 10, 2020, the Company entered into a revolving loanmaster exchange agreement (the “Master Exchange Agreement”) with Esousa Holdings, LLC (“Esousa” or the “Creditor”) which acquired $4,163,481 in principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of certain promissory notes that had been previously issued by the Company to Dominion Capital LLC (the “Dominion Short-Term Promissory Note”) and the Canadian Special Opportunity Fund, LP (the “CSOF Short-Term Promissory Note” and with the Dominion Short-Term Promissory Note, the “Esousa Purchased Notes”) in separate transactions. The Creditor also agreed to purchase additional notes and during the three months ended September 30, 2020, Esousa acquired $2,240,015 in principal amount, plus accrued but unpaid interest, of certain additional promissory notes that had been previously issued by us (the “Esousa Additional Purchased Notes” and collectively, with the Esousa Purchased Notes, the “Notes”). Pursuant to the Master Exchange Agreement, the Creditor has the unilateral right to acquire shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Exchange Shares”) in exchange for the Notes.

The following debt securities were acquired by Esousa pursuant to the Master Exchange Agreement:

Dominion short-term promissory note

On June 18, 2019, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with Gerber Finance, Inc. (“Gerber”) in February of 2012, as amended in September 2015 (the “Revolving Credit Facility”). Under the Revolving Credit Facility, Microphase can receive funds based onDominion Capital, LLC, a borrowing base, which consists of various percentages of eligible accounts receivable, inventories, and equipment plusConnecticut limited liability company (“Dominion”), to sell a restricted cash account in the10% senior secured promissory note with a principal face amount of $100 held by Gerber, up$2,900,000 and issue 12,500 shares of the Company’s common stock (see Note 24). In addition, Ault & Company had guaranteed the prompt and complete payment and performance of the obligations of the Company pursuant to a maximum revolving amount of $1,400 (the “Maximum Revolving Amount”).this senior secured promissory note. Pursuant to the terms of the Revolving Credit Facility, Microphase is subjectnote, the Company was required to an annual facility fee in an amount equal to 1.75% ofmake six monthly amortization payments beginning on July 18, 2019. The Company did not make these payments. On February 10, 2020, the Maximum Revolving Amount due on each anniversary, a monthly collateral monitoring fees of $1 and other fees. Interest accrues at the prime rate plus three and three-quarters percent (3.75%) on the unpaid principal. Effective June 15, 2017, the prime rateDominion short-term promissory note was increased from 4.00% to 4.25% resulting in a base rate of 8.00%. If borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility exceed the collateral borrowing base, then Microphase is subject to an additional 2.5% interest charge per month on the over-advance amounts and a separate additional charge of 2.5% if borrowings exceed the Maximum Revolving Amount. At June 30, 2017, the amount dueacquired pursuant to the Revolving Credit Facility,terms of $612, exceeded the collateral borrowing base by $70. The interest expense for the period from June 3, 2017 to June 30, 2017, was $14.a Master Exchange Agreement.

8% short-term promissory note

 

On June 20, 2017, Microphase received a notice from Gerber that several events of default had occurred underAugust 16, 2018, as amended on November 29, 2018, the Revolving Credit Facility and on July 14, 2017, Microphase and GerberCompany entered into a Forbearancesecurities purchase agreement with an institutional investor providing for the issuance of an 8% promissory note in the principal amount of $318,150, due February 15, 2019. On February 10, 2020, the 8% short-term promissory note in the principal amount of $318,150 was acquired pursuant to the terms of the Master Exchange Agreement. The events of default were primarily related to, (i) the change in control that occurred on June 2, 2017, when Digital Power acquired a majority interest in Microphase, and (ii) borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility exceeding the collateral borrowing base.

 

9.  NOTES PAYABLE

Notes Payable at June 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016, are comprised of the following:

 

 

June 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

10% short-term promissory notes (a)

 

$

705

 

 

$

 

Notes payable to Lucosky Brookman, LLP (b)

 

 

450

 

 

 

 

Notes payable to Wells Fargo (c)

 

 

308

 

 

 

 

Note payable to Department of Economic and Community Development (d)

 

 

300

 

 

 

 

Note payable to People's United Bank ( e)

 

 

20

 

 

 

 

Other short-term notes payable (f)

 

 

33

 

 

 

 

Total notes payable

 

 

1,816

 

 

 

 

Less: current portion

 

 

(1,218

)

 

 

 

Notes payable – long-term portion

 

$

569

 

 

$

 


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

(a)

In December 2016, Microphase issued $705 in 10% short-termMay 2020 promissory notes to nineteen accredited investors which, after deducting $71 of placement fees to its selling agent, Spartan Capital Securities, LLC (“Spartan”), resulted in $634 in net proceeds to Microphase (the “10% Short-Term Notes”). The 10% Short-Term Notes are due one year from the date of issuance. The amount due pursuant to the 10% Short-Term Notes is equal to the entire original principal amount multiplied by 125% (the “Loan Premium”) plus accrued interest. During the period June 3, 2017 to June 30, 2017, Microphase incurred $6 of interest on these 10% short-term promissory notes. Concurrently, Microphase entered into a one-year agreement with Spartan for investment banking services which provided for: (i) $120 of consulting fees that were paid in cash from the proceeds of the 10% Short-Term Notes; and (ii) if Microphase completes an initial public offering, $90 payable in shares of Microphase common stock. As of June 30, 2017, accrued interest on the 10% Short-Term Notes was $145.

(b)

On June 2, 2017, pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement and in consideration of legal services, Microphase issued a $450 8% promissory note with a maturity date of November 25, 2017 to Lucosky Brookman, LLP (the “Lucosky Note”). In conjunction with the issuance of the Lucosky Note, the Company issued Lucosky Brookman 10,000 shares of redeemable convertible Series E preferred stock (the “Series E Preferred Stock”) with a stated value of $45 per share as an alternative to providing a guarantee for the amount of the Lucosky Note. The Company, at its option, may redeem for cash, in whole or in part, at any time and from time to time, the shares of Series E Preferred Stock at the time outstanding, upon written notice to the holder of the shares, at a cash redemption price equal to $45 multiplied by the number of shares being redeemed. Any such optional redemption by the Company shall be credited against the Lucosky Note. During the period June 3, 2017 to June 30, 2017, Microphase incurred $3 of interest on the Lucosky Note. As of June 30, 2017, accrued interest on the Lucosky Note was $3.

(c)

At June 30, 2017, Microphase had guaranteed the repayment of two equity lines of credit in the aggregate amount of $308 with Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) (collectively, the “Wells Fargo Notes”). Microphase had previously guaranteed the payment under the first Wells Fargo equity line during 2008, the proceeds of which Microphase had received from a concurrent loan from Edson Realty Inc., a related party owned real estate holding company. As of June 30, 2017, the first line of credit, which is secured by residential real estate owned by a former officer, had an outstanding balance of $216, with an annual interest rate of 4.00%. Microphase had guaranteed the payment under the second Wells Fargo equity line in 2014. Microphase had received working capital loans from the former CEO from funds that were drawn against the second Wells Fargo equity line. As of June 30, 2017, the second line of credit, secured by the former CEO’s principal residence, had an outstanding balance of $92, with an annual interest rate of 3.00%. During the period June 3, 2017 to June 30, 2017, Microphase incurred $1 of interest on the Wells Fargo Notes.

(d)

In August 2016, Microphase received a $300 loan pursuant to the State of Connecticut Small Business Express Job Creation Incentive Program which is administered through the Department of Economic and Community Development (“DECD”) (the “DECD Note”). The DECD Note bears interest at a rate of 3% per annum and is due in August 2026. Payment of principal and interest is deferred during the initial year and commencing on the thirteenth month, payable in equal monthly installments over the remaining term. During the period June 3, 2017 to June 30, 2017, Microphase did not incur any interest on the DECD Note. In conjunction with the DECD Note, Microphase was awarded a Small Business Express Matching Grant of $100. State grant funding requires a dollar for dollar match on behalf of Microphase. As of June 2, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company has utilized $27 of the grant and the balance of $73 is reported within deferred revenue.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

(e)

In December 2016, Microphase utilized a $20 overdraft credit line at People’s United Bank with an annual interest rate of 15%. As of June 30, 2017, the balance of that overdraft credit line was $20.

(f)

Between May 5, 2017 and June 30, 2017, Digital Power received additional short-term loans of $140 from four accredited investors, of which $75 was from the Company’s corporate counsel, a related party. As additional consideration, the investors received five-year warrants to purchase 224,371 shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $0.77 per share. The warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date and are subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations. The exercise price of these warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. During the quarter ended June 30, 2017, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $95 based on the estimated fair value of these warrants. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. As a result of the short-term feature of these loans and advances, the debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense upon issuance of the warrants using the effective interest method.

During June 2017, the holders of $55 of these short-term loans agreed to cancel their notes for the purchase of 100,001 shares of Digital Power’s common stock and a price of $0.55 per share. An additional $52 in short-term loans from the Company’s corporate counsel was converted into one of the Series C Units. The Company did not record any additional interest expense as a result of the extinguishment of $107 in short-term loans since the carrying amount of the short-term loans was equivalent to the fair value of the consideration transferred, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s equity securities on the date of extinguishment.

Other Notes Payable

 

On May 28, 2020, the Company entered into a securities purchase and exchange agreement with an institutional investor. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company exchanged a 12% short-term promissory note in the principal amount of $235,796 plus accrued interest of $118,985 for a new note due and payable on June 30, 2020. In February 2017,addition, pursuant to the agreement, the Company issued to eight accredited investors $400 in demandthe investor a note due and payable on November 28, 2020, for a purchase price of $160,000, with an aggregate principal face amount of $200,000 and an original issue discount (“OID”) of twenty percent (20%). The Company also issued to the investor a five-year warrant to purchase an aggregate of 400,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $1.07. On July 30, 2020, the May 2020 promissory notes bearingin the principal amount of $554,781 plus accrued interest of $44,734 were acquired pursuant to the terms of the Master Exchange Agreement.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

12% promissory note

On February 5, 2020, the Company issued a 12% promissory note in the principal face amount of $585,919. The 12% promissory note was issued pursuant an exchange agreement (the “February 2020 Exchange Agreement”) with an institutional investor (see Note 21) and was due upon issuance. On August 7, 2020, the 12% promissory note in the principal amount of $585,919 plus accrued interest of $162,863 was acquired pursuant to the terms of the Master Exchange Agreement.

12% July 2019 convertible promissory note

On March 23, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement pursuant to which it issued a 12% promissory note including a 10% OID. The promissory note was in the principal amount of $1,000,000, was sold for $900,000, accrued simple interest at 12% and was due on June 22, 2018. On July 3, 2019, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with the institutional investor pursuant to which, in exchange for the term promissory note issued by the Company to the investor on March 23, 2018, we sold a rateconvertible promissory note in the principal face amount of 6% per annum. Of the eight accredited investors, one investor was deemed$1,292,000 plus a related party. As additional consideration, the investors receiveddefault premium of $200,000, and (ii) a five-year warrantswarrant to purchase 333,333of 25,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.70$8.80 per share (the “Feb. 2017 Warrants”). The Feb. 2017 Warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date and are subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations. The exercise price of the Feb. 2017 Warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The Feb. 2017 Warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. During the quarter ended March 31, 2017, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $151 based on the estimated fair value of the Feb. 2017 Warrants. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. As a result of the due on demand feature of the promissory notes, the debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense upon issuance of the Feb. 2017 Warrants using the effective interest method.share.

 

Between February 16, 2017 and February 23, 2017, the holders of the $400 in demandThis convertible promissory notes agreed to cancel their demand promissory notes for the purchase of 666,667 shares of the Company’s common stock, an extinguishment price of $0.60 per share. During the quarter ended March 31, 2017, the Company recorded additional interest expense of $13 as a result of the extinguishment of the $400 in demand promissory notes based on the difference of the carrying amount of the demand promissory notes and the fair value of the consideration transferred, whichnote was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of extinguishment.

On March 28, 2017, the Company issued $270 in demand promissory notes to several investors. These demand promissory notes accrued interest at the rate of 6% per annum. The Company received gross proceeds of $220 on March 31, 2017. The remaining balance of $50 was received on April 3, 2017. On April 5, 2017, the Company canceled these promissory notes by issuing to the investors 360,000 shares of common stock, at $0.75 per share, and warrants to purchase 180,002 shares of common stock at $0.90 per share. During the quarter ended June 30, 2017, the Company recorded additional interest expense of $109 as a result of the extinguishment of the $270 in demand promissory notes based on the difference of the carrying amount of the demand promissory notes and the fair value of the consideration transferred, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of extinguishment.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

10. NOTES PAYABLE – RELATED PARTIES

Notes Payable – Related parties at June 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016, are comprised of the following:

 

 

June 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Notes payable to MCKEA Holdings, LLC (a)

 

$

 

 

$

250

 

Notes payable to former officer and employee (b)

 

 

406

 

 

 

 

Total notes payable

 

 

406

 

 

 

250

 

Less: current portion

 

 

(278

)

 

 

 (250

)

Notes payable – long-term portion

 

$

128

 

 

$

 

(a)

On December 29, 2016, the Company entered into an agreement with MCKEA Holdings, LLC (“MCKEA”). MCKEA is the majority member of Philou Ventures, LLC, which is the Company’s controlling shareholder. Kristine L. Ault, a director and the wife of Milton C. Ault III, Executive Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors, is the manager and owner of MCKEA, for a demand promissory note (The “MCKEA Note”) in the amount of $250 bearing interest at the rate of 6% per annum on unpaid principal. The MCKEA Note may be prepaid, in whole or in part, without penalty, at the option of the Company and without the consent of MCKEA. As of December 31, 2016, no interest was accrued on the MCKEA Note. On March 24, 2017, the MCKEA Note was cancelled to purchase the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement entered into on March 9, 2017 (See Note 13). Since there was no difference between the reacquisition price and the net carrying value of the cancelled debt, no gain or loss was recognized as a result of this transaction.

(b)

Microphase is a party to several notes payable agreements with seven of its past officers, employees and their family members. As of June 30, 2017, the aggregate outstanding balance pursuant to these notes payable agreements was $488, with annual interest rates ranging between 3.00% and 6.00%. During the period June 3, 2017 to June 30, 2017, Microphase incurred $2 of interest on these notes payable agreements. In July 2016, one of these noteholders initiated litigation to collect the balance owed under the terms of his respective agreement. At June 30, 2017, the outstanding principal balance owed under this particular agreement was $152.

11. CONVERTIBLE NOTES

Convertible notes at June 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016, are comprised of the following:

 

 

June 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

7% Convertible note

 

$

250

 

 

$

 

Convertible note

 

$

250

 

 

$

 


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

On April 17, 2017, the Company entered into two 7% convertible notes (the “7% Convertible Notes”) in the aggregate principal amount of $250. The 7% Convertible Notes accrue$1,492,000 and accrued interest at 7% simple12% per annum. The principal and all accrued and unpaid interest on the principal amount and werewas due on June 2, 2017. The principal may be converted into shares ofJanuary 22, 2020. Subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, the Company’s common stock at $0.75 per share. The noteholder mayinvestor had the right to convert the principal amount of the 7% Convertible Notesthis note and accrued interest earned thereon at any time into common stock. The 7% Convertible Notes contains standardshares of Common Stock at $8.80 per share. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company issued 99,753 shares of Common Stock in payment of principal and customary eventsinterest in the amount of default including, but not limited to, failure to make payments when$860,000 and $17,837, respectively. On September 2, 2020, the remaining amount due under the 7% Convertible Note agreements and bankruptcy or insolvency12% July 2019 convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $632,000, plus accrued interest of $258,788 was acquired pursuant to the terms of the Company. The Company has the right to prepay the 7% Convertible Notes. The 7% Convertible Notes were not repaid on the maturity date and as such were in default at June 30, 2017.Master Exchange Agreement.

 

As additional consideration, the investors received five and a half year warrants to purchase 166,668 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.90 per share (collectively the “7% Convertible Note Warrants”). The 7% Convertible Note Warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date. The exercise price of the 7% Convertible Note Warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The 7% Convertible Note Warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. The Company computed the fair value of the 7% Convertible Note Warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $61 based on the estimated fair value of the 7% Convertible Note Warrants.

The beneficial conversion feature (“BCF”) embedded in the 7% Convertible Notes is accounted for under ASC No. 470, Debt. At issuance, the estimated fair value of the BCF totaled $31. The fair value of the BCF was allocated from the net proceeds of the 7% Convertible Note and was amortized to interest expense over the term of the 7% Convertible Notes using the effective interest method.  The valuation of the BCF was calculated based on the effective conversion price compared with the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance of the Convertible Note. In aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $93 based on the relative fair values of the 7% Convertible Note Warrants of $61 and BCF of $32. During the three months ended June 30, 2017, non-cash interest expense of $93 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts. As of June 30, 2017, accrued interest on the 7% Convertible Notes was $4.

Other Convertible Notes Payable

On April 26, 2017, the Company entered into a 7% convertible note in the aggregate principal amount of $104. On June 28, 2017, the noteholder converted the outstanding balance into 189,091 shares of Digital Power’s common stock. The Company did not record any additional interest expense as a result of the extinguishment since the carrying amount of the convertible notes was equivalent to the fair value of the consideration transferred, which was determined from the closing price of the Company’s equity securities on the date of extinguishment.

As additional consideration, the investor received a five-year warrant to purchase 160,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.80 per share. The warrants are exercisable commencing six months after the issuance date. The exercise price of the warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. The Company computed the fair value of these warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $25$142,070 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants.

The beneficial conversion feature (“BCF”) embedded in this convertible note is accounted for under ASC No. 470, Debt. At issuance, the estimated fair valuetime of issuance of the BCF totaled $26. The fair valuenote, the closing price of the BCFCommon Stock was allocated from the net proceedsin excess of the convertible note and was amortized to interest expense over the term of the convertible note using the effective interest method. The valuation of the BCF was calculated based on the effective conversion price, compared withresulting in a BCF of $209,888, based on the marketdifference between the effective conversion price and the fair value of the Company’s common stock onat the commitment date of issuance of the convertible note. transaction

In aggregate, the Company recorded debt discount in the amount of $51$351,958 based on the relative fair values of the warrants of $25 and BCF of $26.BCF. During the three monthsyear ended June 30, 2017,December 31, 2019, non-cash interest expense of $51$351,958 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts. AsThe fair value of June 30, 2017, accrued interestthe warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 1.75% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrant, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 85.47% was determined based on this convertible note was $1.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share datahistorical stock prices of similar technology companies.

 

12. CONVERTIBLE NOTE – RELATED PARTYThe first exchange occurred on the date of the Master Exchange Agreement when the Creditor exchanged a portion of the Esousa Purchased Notes for the Exchange Shares (the “Initial Exchange”) and the second exchange (the “Second Exchange” and together with the Initial Exchange, the “Exchange”) began July 8, 2020 when the Company received stockholder approval at a special meeting thereof for the Exchange of the Esousa Additional Purchased Notes for the Company’s common stock, and subsequently, authorization from the NYSE American (together, the “Required Approvals”).

 

Convertible notes – related party at June 30, 2017,The Exchange Agreement provides for two pricing periods, the first of which commenced after the date on which the Creditor received the Exchange Shares pursuant to the Initial Exchange and December 31, 2016, are comprisedended on the date that was 90 days after receipt thereof, and the second of which shall commence on the following:date on which the Creditor receives the Exchange Shares pursuant to the Second Exchange and ending on the date that is 90 days after receipt thereof, in either case, unless earlier terminated by the Creditor by written notice.

 

 

 

June 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

12% Convertible secured note

 

$

530

 

 

$

530

 

Less:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unamortized debt discounts

 

 

(398

)

 

 

(484

)

Unamortized financing cost

 

 

(10

)

 

 

(12

)

Convertible note – related party

 

$

122

 

 

$

34

 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

On October 21, 2016,

The number of shares to be issued upon each Exchange will be equal to (x) the principal and accrued but unpaid interest due on the Notes being exchanged multiplied by 1.35, divided by (y) the closing bid price effective on each date of an exchange notice, provided, however, that the Company entered into a 12% convertible secured noteshall theretofore have obtained the Required Approvals (the “Convertible Note”“Exchange Price”) in the principal amount of $530.. The Convertible Note included an original issue discount (“OID”)total number of $30 resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $500. Additionally, the Convertible Note accrues interest at 12% simple interest on the principal amount, is secured by all the assets of the Company, and is due on October 20, 2019. Interest only payments are due on a quarterly basis and the principal may be converted into shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.55 per share. Subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations,be issued to Creditor in connection with the noteholder may convertapplicable Exchange shall be adjusted on the principal amount ofBusiness Day immediately following the Convertible Note at any time into common stock. The conversionPricing Period based upon the volume weighted average price of the Convertible Note is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or other standard anti-dilution events.

The Convertible Note contains standard and customary events of default including, but not limited to, failure to make payments when due under the Convertible Note agreement and bankruptcy or insolvency of the Company. Upon 30 days’ notice, the Company has the right to prepay the Convertible Note. In addition, provided that the closing price for a share(“VWAP”) of the Company’s common stock exceeds $3.00over the applicable Pricing Period (the “VWAP Shares”). VWAP Shares means the number of shares determined by dividing (x) the Exchange Amount of the applicable Exchange, multiplied by 1.1, by (y) the greater of (I) seventy-five percent (75.0%) of the VWAP of the Company’s common stock over the applicable Pricing Period, or (II) $0.30 per share for 30 consecutive trading days,share.

Pursuant to the Master Exchange Agreement, the Company has the right to compel the noteholder to convert the principal amount into shares of common stock at the contractual conversion price.

As additional consideration, the investor received a three-year warrantissued warrants to purchase 265,000an aggregate of 1,832,597 shares of common stock at an average exercise price of $0.80equal to $1.43 per share andof common stock. The warrants became exercisable in July 2020. In connection therewith, the Company agreed to file a three-year warrantregistration statement to purchase 265,000register the sale of the shares of common stock atunderlying the exercise of the warrants by the Creditor pursuant to the Master Exchange Agreement. Since the Creditor did not purchase all of the additional notes, the Company has the option to acquire a portion of the warrants from the Creditor for an exerciseaggregate price of $0.90 per share (collectively$1.00. Consequently, at December 31, 2020, the “Convertible Note Warrants”). The Convertible Note Warrants are exercisable commencing six months afteroption represented the issuance date and are subjectright to certain beneficial ownership limitations. The exercise priceacquire 132,236 of the Convertible Note Warrants is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The Convertible Note Warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. The Convertible Note Warrants have a call feature that permitswarrants from the Company to force redemptionCreditor. Therefore, only 1,700,360 options are deemed outstanding at $0.001 per share in the event the closing price for a share of the Company’s common stock exceeds $3.00 for 30 consecutive trading days. December 31, 2020.

The Company computed the fair value of the Convertible1,700,360 warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded a loss on extinguishment in the amount of $2,713,874 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. The fair value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 0.23% to 1.38% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrants, in effect at the measurement dates. The volatility factor of 86.31% to 100.82% was determined based on historical stock prices of similar technology companies.

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued to the investor an aggregate of 8,332,904 shares of the Company’s common stock upon the exchange of principal and interest in the amount of $4,401,023 and $2,142,504, respectively. A loss on extinguishment of $15,488,644 was recognized on the issuances of common stock based on the fair value of the Company’s common stock at the date of the exchanges. During January 2021, the remaining outstanding principal and accrued interest of $200,000 and $15,948, respectively, of debt securities acquired by Esousa was satisfied through the issuance of 183,214 shares of Common Stock. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of $551,718 as a result of this issuance (see Note Warrants28).

Esousa short-term promissory notes

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued to Esousa 12% short-term promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $2,000,000 and five-year warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,536,655 shares of Common Stock at an average exercise price equal to $1.43 per share of Common Stock. The Esousa 12% short-term promissory notes had a term of three months and were repaid at December 31, 2020.

The Company computed the fair value of the warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $159$836,725 based on the estimated fair value of the Convertible Note Warrants.warrants. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the entire amount of debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense. The fair value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rates ranged from 0.34% and 1.11% and were derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrants, in effect at the measurement dates. The volatility factor was between 86.31% and 100.82% and was determined based on historical stock prices of similar technology companies.

Between August 2020 and October 2020, the Company also received $3,200,000 in loans from Esousa pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue unsecured short-term promissory notes with interest rates of 13% and 14% and warrants with terms of approximately one and a half years to purchase an aggregate of 1,303,863 shares of Common Stock at an average exercise price of $2.70 per share of Common Stock. The notes had a term of three months from the date the Company received the proceeds and were repaid at December 31, 2020. The Company is prohibited from issuing the Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants until stockholder approval of such issuance of securities is obtained as required by applicable NYSE American listing rules and subsequently, authorization from the NYSE American (the “Required Approvals”). The Company shall seek stockholder approval at its annual meeting of stockholders expected to be held during the quarter ended June 30, 2021. If the Required Approvals are received, the warrants shall be immediately exercisable, including, at the option of Esousa, by means of a cashless exercise. These warrants to purchase common stock do not qualify to be treated as equity, and accordingly, were recorded as a liability. The Company is required to present these instruments at fair value at each reporting date and any changes in fair values shall be recorded as an adjustment to earnings.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

The Company computed the fair value of the warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $3,062,644 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the entire amount of debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense. The fair value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rates ranged from 0.12% and 0.17% and were derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrants, in effect at the measurement dates. The volatility factor of 104.56% was determined based on historical stock prices of similar technology companies.

Other short-term notes payable

(i)On August 23, 2018, DP Lending issued an unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $85,000 to an accredited investor. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company made principal payments of $46,500 resulting in a remaining outstanding balance of $38,500. This note was not repaid on the specified maturity date and is currently in default.

(ii)On October 9, 2018, DP Lending issued a promissory note in the principal amount of $60,000 to an accredited investor. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company made principal payments of $33,301 resulting in an outstanding balance of $26,699 which was repaid during the year ended December 31, 2020.

(iii)On July 11, 2019, the Company entered into a non-binding term sheet with Ding Gu to sell, for a purchase price of $400,000, a 12% original issue discount promissory note with an aggregate principal face amount of $440,000. Definitive documents have not been executed and a dispute has arisen over the transaction. On January 17, 2020, Mr. Gu. filed a complaint in the Supreme Court of the State of New York (see note 23) regarding the terms of this non-binding term sheet and those of a 4% convertible promissory note, in the amount of $660,000 (see note 21), seeking, among other things, monetary damages in excess of $1,100,000.

(iv)Between September 2019 and December 2019, DP Lending entered into a series of 12% three year term promissory notes in the aggregate amount of $155,000. These notes remain outstanding at December 31, 2020.

(v)During November 2019, the Company entered into a short term promissory note in the aggregate principal amount of $360,000. The promissory note contained an original issue discount of $60,000 resulting in net proceeds of $300,000. The interest rate on the promissory note was 12% per annum and was payable on the maturity date, February 14, 2020.

(vi)Pursuant to the terms of the purchase agreement with Power-Plus, the Company entered into a two-year promissory note in the amount of $255,000 payable to the former owner as part of the purchase consideration. On October 18, 2017, for cancellation of debt, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with the former owner under which the Company sold 173 shares of common stock at $537.57 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $93,000. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the outstanding balance on this note was $13,250.

(vii)Microphase utilizes a $20,000 overdraft credit line at People’s United Bank with an annual interest rate of 15%. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the balance of that overdraft credit line was $17,101 and $16,890, respectively.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

Notes payable to Wells Fargo

At December 31, 2020 and 2019, Microphase had guaranteed the repayment of certain equity lines of credit in the aggregate amount of $182,615 and $290,560, respectively, with Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) (collectively, the “Wells Fargo Notes”). These loans originated prior to the Company’s acquisition of Microphase and Microphase was the recipient of the actual proceeds from the loans. As of December 31, 2020, the first line of credit, which is secured by residential real estate owned by a former officer, had an outstanding balance of $182,615, with an annual interest rate of 4.00%. The second Wells Fargo equity line originated in 2014 when Microphase had received working capital loans from the former CEO from funds that were drawn against the second Wells Fargo equity line. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the second Wells Fargo equity line was repaid by the estate of Microphase’s former CEO.

Note payable to Dept. of Economic and Community Development

In August 2016, Microphase received a $300,000 loan, of which $103,403 has been repaid, pursuant to the State of Connecticut Small Business Express Job Creation Incentive Program which is administered through the Department of Economic and Community Development (“DECD”) (the “DECD Note”). The DECD Note accrues interest at a rate of 3% per annum and is due in August 2026. Payment of principal and interest commenced in September 2017, payable in equal monthly installments over the remaining term.

Paycheck Protection Program

In March 2020, U.S. lawmakers agreed on the passage of a $2 trillion stimulus bill called the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act to blunt the impact of an economic downturn set in motion by the global coronavirus pandemic. The main driver of small business stimulus in the CARES Act is contained in the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”). PPP Loans may be used to cover payroll, benefits, and salaries, as well as interest payments, rent, and utilities. Fees are waived, and collateral and personal guarantees are not required. Payments are deferred for a minimum of six months, up to one year, and there are no prepayment penalties.

During April 2020, the Company received loans under the PPP in the principal amount of $715,101 and the Company’s majority owned subsidiary, Microphase, received loans in the principal amount of $467,333. The principal of the loan may be forgiven up to the total cost of payroll, mortgage interest payments, rent and utility payments made during the eight-week period after origination. In addition to meeting the size requirement (500 or fewer employees for most companies), the Company was required to demonstrate that its business had been negatively impacted by COVID-19. The Company expects that the entire amount received under the PPP is eligible for loan forgiveness.

Economic Injury Disaster Loan

On May 27, 2020, the Company received an Economic Injury Disaster Loan in the principal amount of $150,000 with an annual interest rate of 3.75%. The Company shall begin making principal and interest payments of $731 every month beginning on May 27, 2021. All remaining principal and interest is due and payable thirty years from the date of the note.

June ‘20 short-term promissory notes

On June 26, 2020, the Company issued to several institutional investors unsecured 12% short-term promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $800,000 and seventeen month warrants to purchase an aggregate of 361,991 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.43 per share of Common Stock. These notes had a term of three months and were repaid during the quarter ended December 31, 2020. The warrants were exercised on a cashless basis which resulted in the issuance of 438,077 shares of Common Stock (see Note 24). These warrants to purchase Common Stock did not qualify to be treated as equity, and accordingly, were recorded as a liability. The Company was required to present these instruments at fair value at each reporting date and any changes in fair values were recorded as an adjustment to earnings.

The Company computed the fair value of the warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $765,082 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the entire amount of debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense. The risk-free rate was 0.32% and was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrants, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 135% was derived from the stated terms of the warrants.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

Enertec short-term bank credit and secured promissory note

At December 31, 2020 and 2019, Enertec had short term bank credit of $1,404,096 and $1,622,337, respectively, that bears interest at prime plus 0.7% through 3.85% paid either on a monthly or weekly basis. Further, the Company has undertaken to comply with certain covenants under its bank loan.

On December 28, 2018, Enertec entered into a $500,000 secured promissory note (the “Enertec Note”), whereby Enertec agreed to pay interest in an amount of 10% per annum in cash to the investor, beginning on January 15, 2019, on a monthly basis, until the Enertec Note was paid in full. The proceeds from the Enertec Note were received in January 2019. The Enertec Note was paid from proceeds received in the April 2, 2019 public offering (see note 24). In connection with the Enertec Note, the Company’s Executive Chairman provided a personal guarantee for the benefit of the investor.

20. NOTES PAYABLE – RELATED PARTIES

Notes Payable – Related parties at December 31, 2020 and 2019, are comprised of the following:

  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Notes payable, related parties $239,355  $284,317 
Less: current portion  (187,818)  (169,153)
Notes payable, related parties – long-term portion $51,537  $115,164 

Microphase is party to several notes payable agreements with its past officers, employees and their family members. As of December 31, 2020, the aggregate outstanding balance pursuant to these notes payable agreements, inclusive of $35,351 of accrued interest, was $274,706, with annual interest rates ranging between 3.00% and 6.00%. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, Microphase incurred $8,865 and $6,852, respectively, of interest on these notes.

21. CONVERTIBLE NOTES

Convertible Notes Payable at December 31, 2020 and 2019, are comprised of the following:

  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
8% Convertible promissory note $  $935,772 
12% Convertible promissory note     815,218 
4% Convertible promissory note  660,000   660,000 
12% November 2019 convertible promissory note     350,000 
Total convertible notes payable  660,000   2,760,990 
Less:        
Unamortized debt discounts  (273,717)  (355,227)
Total convertible notes payable, net of financing cost $386,283  $2,405,763 
Less: current portion     (2,100,990)
Convertible notes payable, net of financing cost – long-term portion $386,283  $304,773 

8% Convertible Promissory Note

On November 15, 2019, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with a lender pursuant to which the Company issued to the lender a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $935,772 with an interest rate of 8% per annum. The 8% convertible promissory note was convertible into shares of Common Stock at a conversion price of $1.80 per share. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued 529,425 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of principal and interest of $952,965. Since the proceeds received by the investor from the sales of common stock were less than the amount of principal and accrued interest, the investor was due a true up payment in the amount of $210,049, which was recognized as additional interest expense.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

12% Convertible Promissory Note

On February 5, 2020 the Company entered into the February 2020 Exchange Agreement with an institutional investor pursuant to which the Company issued to the investor a 12% convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $295,000 with a conversion price of $1.45 per share of Common Stock and a 12% promissory note in the principal amount of $585,919. These two notes were issued upon the exchange of the 12% convertible promissory note, in the principal amount of $815,218, issued on September 26, 2019 (the “September 2019 Exchange Agreement”). Since the exchange provided the institutional investor with a substantive conversion feature, the debt instruments were determined to be substantially different and a loss on extinguishment of $20,345 was recognized. On February 25, 2020, the Company issued to the investor 203,448 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of principal of $295,000. During the year ended December 31, 2020, Esousa purchased the 12% promissory note in the principal amount of $585,919 from the institutional investor (See Note 19).

4% Convertible Promissory Note

On May 20, 2019, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with an investor to sell, for a purchase price of $500,000, a 4% original issue discount (“OID”) convertible promissory note with an aggregate principal face amount of $660,000 and a five-year warrant to purchase an aggregate of 12,500 shares of the Company’s common stock. The Company is required to make quarterly interest payments and the principal amount of the note is due on May 20, 2024. The note is convertible into shares of Common Stock at $4.00 per share. The exercise price of the warrant is $12.00 per share. In addition, the Executive Chairman of the Company agreed to guarantee and act as surety for the Company’s obligation to repay the note pursuant to a personal guarantee.

The Company computed the fair value of the warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $58,448 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. At the time of issuance of the note, the closing price of the Common Stock was in excess of the effective conversion price, resulting in a beneficial conversion feature ((“BCF”) of $188,448, based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the fair value of the Company’s common stock at the commitment date of the transaction.

In aggregate, the Company recorded a debt discount in the amount of $406,896 based on the relative fair values of the warrants, BCF and OID. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, non-cash interest expense of $81,510 and $51,669, respectively, was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts. The fair value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate of 2.18% was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrant, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 87.51% was determined based on historical stock prices of similar technology companies.

12% November 2019 Convertible Promissory Note

On November 4, 2019, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with an investor pursuant to which, in exchange for an OID promissory note issued by the Company for the benefit of the investor on July 25, 2019, as amended, the Company sold to the investor a new convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $350,000 with an interest rate of 12% per annum. The note was convertible into shares of Common Stock at a conversion price of $1.20 per share, subject to adjustments. Principal and interest on this note was due on July 4, 2020. Since the exchange provided the institutional investor with a substantive conversion feature, the debt instruments were determined to be substantially different and a loss on extinguishment of $30,053 was recognized. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued 320,483 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of principal and interest in the amount of $350,000 and $31,585, respectively.

F-48

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

10% Convertible Promissory Note

On April 13, 2020, the Company issued a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 with an interest rate of 10% per annum and a five-year warrant to purchase shares of Common Stock equal to the lesser of 157,143 or 50% of the number of shares of Common Stock issuable pursuant to the convertible promissory note, at an exercise price equal to $1.17 per share of Common Stock. During the year ended December 31, 2020, pursuant to the terms of the convertible promissory note, the Company issued to the investor 90,299 shares of Common Stock upon the exchange of principal and interest in the amount of $100,000 and $5,317, respectively. A loss on extinguishment of $83,682 was recognized on the issuance of Common Stock based on the fair value of the Common Stock at the date of the exchange.

The Company computed the fair value of the warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded debt discount in the amount of $53,763 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the entire amount of debt discount was amortized as non-cash interest expense. The fair value of the warrants was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing method. The risk-free rate was 0.44% and was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve, matching the term of the warrants, in effect at the measurement date. The volatility factor of 94.51% was determined based on historical stock prices for similar technology companies.

During December 2020, the Company issued 45,150 shares of Common Stock, the equivalent of 50% of the number of shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of the convertible promissory note, upon the cash exercise of these warrants (see Note 24). These warrants to purchase Common Stock did not qualify to be treated as equity, and accordingly, were recorded as a liability. The Company was required to present these instruments at fair value at each reporting date and any changes in fair values were recorded as an adjustment to earnings.

September 2019 Exchange Agreement

On July 2, 2019, the Company entered into an exchange agreement with an institutional investor pursuant to which, in exchange for a term promissory note issued by the Company to the investor on September 21, 2018, in the principal face amount of $526,316, the Company sold to the investor a new convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $783,031 with an interest rate of 12% per annum and a maturity date of December 31, 2019. This note was convertible into shares of Common Stock at a conversion price equal to the greater of (A) $8.80 or (B) 80% of the lowest daily VWAP in the three trading days prior to the date of conversion. Since the exchange provided the institutional investor with a substantive conversion feature, the debt instruments were determined to be substantially different and a loss on extinguishment of $36,999 was recognized.

Further, at the time of issuance of the 12% Convertible Note, the closing price of the Company’s common stock was in excess of the conversion price, resulting in a BCF. At issuance, the intrinsic value of the BCF totaled $71,185, based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the fair value of the Company’s common stock at the commitment date of the transaction. During the year ended December 31, 2019, non-cash interest expense of $71,185 was recorded from the amortization of debt discounts attributed to the 12% Convertible Note.

On September 26, 2019, principal and interest on the 12% Convertible Note was exchanged for a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $815,218 with an interest rate of 12% per annum and a maturity date of December 31, 2019. This note is convertible into shares of Common Stock at a conversion price of $4.00. The Company recognized an additional loss on extinguishment of $11,647.

22. CONVERTIBLE NOTE – RELATED PARTY

On February 5, 2020, the Company issued an 8% convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 to Ault & Company, Inc. (“Ault & Company” and the “Ault & Company Convertible Note”). The principal amount of this note, plus any accrued and unpaid interest at a rate of 8% per annum, was due and payable on August 5, 2020. The Ault & Company Convertible Note is convertible into Common Stock at a conversion price of $1.45 per share.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

At the time of issuance of the Ault & Company Convertible Note, the closing price of the Company’s Common Stock was in excess of the conversion price, resulting in a beneficial conversion feature (“BCF”). The BCF embedded in the Ault & Company Convertible Note is accounted for under ASC No. 470, Debt.bt (“ASC 470”). At issuance, the estimated fairintrinsic value of the BCF totaled $329. The$68,966, based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the fair value of the BCF was allocated fromCommon Stock at the net proceedscommitment date of the transaction. The Company was prohibited from issuing the shares of Common Stock issuable pursuant to the Ault & Company Convertible Note unless stockholder approval of such issuance of securities was obtained. The Company received stockholder approval on July 8, 2020. On August 20, 2020, the Company issued 413,793 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $600,000 in principal.

23. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Derivative Action

On July 31, 2018, Ethan Young and Greg Young (collectively, “Plaintiffs”) filed a stockholder derivative complaint (the “Complaint”) in the respective discountUnited States District Court for the Central District of California (the “Court”) against the Company as the nominal defendant, as well as its current directors and is being amortizeda former director, in action captioned, Ethan Young and Greg Young, Derivatively on Behalf of Nominal Defendant, DPW Holdings, Inc. v. Milton C. Ault, III, Amos Kohn, William B. Horne, Jeff Bentz, Mordechai Rosenberg, Robert O. Smith, and Kristine Ault and DPW Holdings, Inc., as the nominal defendant, (collectively, “Defendants”) Case No. 18-cv-6587 (the “Derivative Action”).

The Complaint alleged violations of state law and breaches of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment and gross mismanagement by the individual defendants, in connection with various transactions entered into by the Company.

The Defendants moved to interest expense overdismiss the termComplaint, and on February 25, 2019, the Court granted Defendants motion to dismiss, in its entirety, without prejudice, and also granted Plaintiffs leave to amend their Complaint.

On March 11, 2019, Plaintiffs filed an amended complaint asserting violations of the Convertible Note using the effective interest method.  The valuationbreaches of the BCF was calculatedfiduciary duties and unjust enrichment claims based on the effective conversion price comparedpreviously pled transactions (the “Amended Complaint”).

On March 25, 2019, Defendants filed a motion to dismiss (the “Motion”) the Amended Complaint. On May 21, 2019, the Court granted in part, and denied in part, the Defendants’ Motion. On February 24, 2020, the Company entered into a definitive settlement agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) with Plaintiffs to settle the market priceclaims asserted in the Amended Complaint.

On April 15, 2020, the Court issued an Order (the “Order”) approving a Motion for Preliminary Approval of Settlement in the Derivative Action. On July 16, 2020, the Court issued an Order (the “Final Order”) approving a Motion for Final Approval of Settlement in the Derivative Action filed against the Company as a Nominal Defendant and its directors who served on its board of directors on July 31, 2018 who were not dismissed from the action as a result of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuanceCourt’s partial grant of the Convertible Note.Motion.

On July 16, 2020, the Court entered a Judgment based upon the Final Order.

Under the terms of the Final Order, the Board adopted and shall maintain certain resolutions and amendments to the Company’s committee charters and/or bylaws, to ensure adherence to certain corporate governance policies (collectively, the “Reforms”). The Final Order further provides that such Reforms shall remain in effect for a period of no less than five (5) years and shall be subject to any of the following: (a) a determination by a majority of the independent directors that the Reforms are no longer in the best interest of the Company, including, but not limited to, due to circumstances making the Reforms no longer applicable, feasible, or available on commercially reasonable terms, or (b) modifications which the Company reasonably believes are required by applicable law or regulation.

 

In aggregate,connection with the Company recorded debt discountSettlement Agreement, the parties agreed upon a payment of attorneys’ fees in the amount of $518$600,000, which sum was paid by our Director & Officer liability insurance. The Settlement Agreement contains no admission of wrongdoing.

The Company has always maintained and continues to believe that neither it nor any of its current or former directors engaged in any wrongdoing or otherwise committed any violation of federal or state securities laws or any other laws or regulations.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

Blockchain Mining Supply and Services, Ltd.

On November 28, 2018, Blockchain Mining Supply and Services, Ltd. (“Blockchain Mining”) a vendor who sold computers to a subsidiary of the Company, filed a Complaint (the “Complaint”) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Company and its subsidiary, Digital Farms, Inc. (f/k/a Super Crypto Mining, Inc.), in an action captioned Blockchain Mining Supply and Services, Ltd. v. Super Crypto Mining, Inc. and DPW Holdings, Inc., Case No. 18-cv-11099.

The Complaint asserts claims for breach of contract and promissory estoppel against the Company and its subsidiary arising from the subsidiary’s alleged failure to honor its obligations under the purchase agreement. The Complaint seeks monetary damages in excess of $1,388,495, plus attorneys’ fees and costs.

The Company believes that these claims are without merit and intend to vigorously defend them.

On April 13, 2020, the Company and its subsidiary jointly filed a motion to dismiss the Complaint in its entirety as against the Company, and the promissory estoppel claim as against its subsidiary. On the same day, the Company’s subsidiary also filed a partial Answer to the Complaint in connection with the breach of contract claim.

On April 29, 2020, Blockchain Mining filed an amended complaint (the “Amended Complaint”). The Amended Complaint asserts the same causes of action and seeks the same damages as the initial Complaint.

On May 13, 2020, the Company and its subsidiary, jointly filed a motion to dismiss the Amended Complaint in its entirety as against the Company, and the promissory estoppel claim as against of its subsidiary. On the same day, the Company’s subsidiary also filed a partial Answer to the Amended Complaint in connection with the breach of contract claim.

In its partial Answer, the Company’s subsidiary admitted to the validity of the contract at issue and also asserted numerous affirmative defenses concerning the proper calculation of damages.

On December 4, 2020, the Court issued an Order directing the Parties to engage in limited discovery (the “Limited Discovery”) which was completed on March 4, 2021. In connection therewith, the Court also denied Defendants’ Motion to Dismiss without prejudice.

The Company and its subsidiary have informed the Court that they intend to file a revised motion to dismiss the Amended Complaint and anticipate filing such motion to dismiss when the Court issues a briefing schedule.

Based on the Company’s assessment of the facts underlying the claims, the uncertainty of litigation, and the preliminary stage of the case, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the potential loss or range of loss that may result from this action. Notwithstanding, the Company has established a reserve in the amount of the unpaid portion of the purchase agreement. An unfavorable outcome may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Ding Gu (a/k/a Frank Gu) and Xiaodan Wang Litigation

On January 17, 2020, Ding Gu (a/k/a Frank Gu) (“Gu”) and Xiaodan Wang (“Wang” and with “Gu” collectively, “Plaintiffs”), filed a Complaint (the “Complaint”) in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of New York against the Company and its Executive Chairman, Milton C. Ault, III, in an action captioned Ding Gu (a/k/a Frank Gu) and Xiaodan Wang v. DPW Holdings, Inc. and Milton C. Ault III (a/k/a Milton Todd Ault III a/k/a Todd Ault), Index No. 650438/2020.

The Complaint asserts causes of action for declaratory judgment, specific performance, breach of contract, conversion, attorneys’ fees, permanent injunction, enforcement of Guaranty, unjust enrichment, money had and received, and fraud arising from: (i) a series of transactions entered into between Gu and the Company, as well as Gu and Ault, in or about May 2019; and (ii) a term sheet entered into between Plaintiffs and the Company, in or about July 2019. The Complaint seeks, among other things, monetary damages in excess of $1,100,000, plus a decree of specific performance directing the Company to deliver unrestricted shares of Common Stock to Gu, plus attorneys’ fees and costs.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

The Company believes that these claims are without merit and intend to vigorously defend them.

On May 4, 2020, the Company and Ault jointly filed a motion to dismiss the Complaint in its entirety, with prejudice.

On July 24, 2020, Plaintiffs filed their opposition papers to the Company’s joint motion to dismiss.

The motion to dismiss has been fully briefed and is currently pending before the court.

Based on the Company’s assessment of the facts underlying the above claims, the uncertainty of litigation, and the preliminary stage of the case, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the potential loss or range of loss that may result from this action. An unfavorable outcome may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Subpoena

The Company received a subpoena from the SEC for the voluntary production of documents. The Company is fully cooperating with this non-public, fact-finding inquiry and management believes that the Company has operated its business in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. The subpoena expressly provides that the inquiry is not to be construed as an indication by the Commission or its staff that any violations of the federal securities laws have occurred, nor should it be considered a reflection upon any person, entity or security. However, there can be no assurance as to the outcome of this matter.

I.AM Bankruptcy Filing

On November 2, 2020, I.AM, Inc. filed a voluntary petition for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 in the United States Bankruptcy Court in the Central District of California, Santa Ana Division, case number 8:20-bk-13076.

Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP

On November 20, 2020, the Company’s former counsel, Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP as successor to Sichenzia Ross Ference Kesner LLP (“SRF”) filed a Complaint in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Company and two of its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company Defendants”), in an action captioned Sichenzia Ross Ference LLP as successor to Sichenzia Ross Ference Kesner LLP v. Digital Power Corporation, et al., Case No. 20-CV-09811-JGK. The Complaint asserts claims for breach of contract, account stated, unjust enrichment and quantum meruit, against the Company Defendants, and seeks monetary damages in the amount of $2,558,121 plus interest thereon.

On January 4, 2021, the Company Defendants filed a motion for a more definite statement.

On January 11, 2021, the Court held a conference in connection with the Company Defendants’ Motion wherein the Court denied the Company Defendants’ Motion as moot, ordered SRF to amend its Complaint by on or before January 25, 2021, and referred the matter to mediation.

On January 25, 2021, SRF filed a First Amended Complaint in the action and dropped the two subsidiaries as parties to the action. The First Amended Complaint asserts claims for breach of contract, account stated, unjust enrichment and quantum meruit, against the Company, and seeks monetary damages in the amount of $2,518,468 plus interest thereon.

On or about February 18, 2021, SRF, the Company Defendants, and various of the Company Defendants’ related parties entered into a confidential settlement agreement.

On or about February 23, 2021, SRF filed, on behalf of itself and the Company Defendants, a stipulation of voluntary dismissal, with prejudice.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

Other Litigation Matters

The Company is involved in litigation arising from other matters in the ordinary course of business. We are regularly subject to claims, suits, regulatory and government investigations, and other proceedings involving labor and employment, commercial disputes, and other matters. Such claims, suits, regulatory and government investigations, and other proceedings could result in fines, civil penalties, or other adverse consequences.

Certain of these outstanding matters include speculative, substantial or indeterminate monetary amounts. The Company records a liability when it believes that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If the Company determines that a loss is reasonably possible and the loss or range of loss can be estimated, the Company discloses the reasonably possible loss. The Company evaluates developments in its legal matters that could affect the amount of liability that has been previously accrued, and the matters and related reasonably possible losses disclosed, and makes adjustments as appropriate. Significant judgment is required to determine both likelihood of there being and the estimated amount of a loss related to such matters.

With respect to the Company’s other outstanding matters, based on the relative fair valuesCompany’s current knowledge, the Company believes that the amount or range of reasonably possible loss will not, either individually or in aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. However, the outcome of such matters is inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties. 

24. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Amendments to Certificate of Incorporation

On January 3, 2019, the Company filed a certificate of amendment (the “Certificate of Amendment”) to its Certificate of Incorporation, with the Secretary of State of the Convertible Note WarrantsState of $159, BCFDelaware, to effectuate an increase to the number of $329 and OIDauthorized shares of $30. The debt discount is being amortized as non-cash interest expense over the termcommon stock of the debt. In addition,Company. Pursuant to the Certificate of Amendment, the Company incurred $13increased the number of debt issuance costs which are also being amortized as non-cash interest expense over the termauthorized shares of its Class A common stock to 500,000,000 from 200,000,000 (the “Authorized Increase”). The number of authorized shares of the debt. During bothCompany’s Class B common stock remains at 25,000,000 and the threenumber of authorized shares of the Company’s preferred stock remains at 25,000,000. As a result of the increase of authorized shares of the Company’s Class A common stock, the aggregate number of the Company’s authorized shares is 550,000,000. The Authorized Increase was approved by the Company’s board of directors as of December 28, 2018, and six months ended June 30, 2017, non-cash interest expenseapproved by a vote of $44 was recorded from the amortizationstockholders of debt discounts and debt financing cost. Asthe Company at the December 28, 2018 Annual Meeting of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, accrued interestStockholders. The Certificate of Amendment became effective upon filing with the State of Delaware on the Convertible Note was $16 and $12, respectively.January 3, 2019. 

 


On March 14, 2019, pursuant to the authorization provided by the Company’s stockholders at a Special Meeting of Stockholders, the Company’s Board approved the Certificate of Incorporation Amendment (the “COI Amendment”) to effectuate a reverse stock split of the common stock of the Company’s issued and outstanding number of such shares by a ratio of one-for-twenty (the “Reverse Stock Split”). The Company filed the COI Amendment to its Certificate of Incorporation with the State of Delaware effectuating the Reverse Stock Split on March 14, 2019. As a result of the Reverse Stock Split, each twenty (20) shares of common stock issued and outstanding prior to the Reverse Stock Split were converted into one (1) share of common stock, with no change in authorized shares or par value per share.

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAt the Company’s reconvened 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the Company’s stockholders approved a proposal permitting the Board to effectuate a second reverse stock split (the “Second Reverse Stock Split”) of the Company’s issued and outstanding common stock. Thereafter, on July 23, 2019, the Board approved the Second Reverse Stock Split with a ratio of one-for-forty. As a result of the Second Reverse Stock Split, each forty (40) shares of common stock issued and outstanding prior to the Second Reverse Stock Split were converted into one (1) share of common stock, – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollarswith no change in thousands, except share andauthorized shares or par value per share datashare. The Second Reverse Stock Split became effective in the State of Delaware on August 5, 2019.

 

13. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Preferred Stock

 

The Company is authorized to issue 2,000,00025,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock with no$0.001 par value. The Board of Directors has designated 500,0001,000,000 shares of its Preferred Stock as Series A cumulative Redeemable Convertible Preferred sharesStock (the “Series“Series A Preferred Stock”), 500,000 shares as Series B Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series“Series B Preferred Stock”), 460,000 and 2,500 shares as Series C Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock (the “Series“Series C Preferred Stock”), 378,776 shares as Series D Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series D Preferred Stock”), and 10,000 shares as Series E Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series E Preferred Stock”). The rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions on the remaining authorized 151,22423,497,500 shares of Preferred Stock have not been determined. The Company’s Board of Directors is authorized to createdesignate a new series of preferred shares and determine the number of shares, as well as the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions granted to or imposed upon any series of preferred shares. As of June 30, 2017,December 31, 2020, there were 100,0007,040 shares of Series A Preferred Stock, 125,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock 455,002 shares of Series C Preferred Stock, 378,776 shares of Series D Preferred Stock, 10,000 shares of Series E Preferred Stock issued and outstanding and no other shares of Preferred Stock were issued or outstanding. As of December 31, 2016, there were no shares of Preferred Stock issued or outstanding.

 

Series B Preferred Stock

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a PreferredCommon Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou, a related party. Pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou may invest up to $5,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over the term of 36 months.

Each share of Series B Preferred Stock has a stated value of $10.00 per share. Each share of Series B Preferred Stock may be convertible at the holder’s option into shares of common stock of the Company at a conversion rate of $0.70 per share, upon the earlier to occur of: (i) 60 months from the closing date, or (ii) upon the filing by the Company of one or more periodic reports that, singly or collectively, evidence(s) that the Company’s gross revenues have reached no less than $10,000 in the aggregate, on a consolidated reporting basis, over four consecutive quarters in accordance with U.S.  GAAP. The conversion price will be subject to standard anti-dilution provisions in connection with any stock split, stock dividend, subdivision or similar reclassification of the common stock.

Each share of Series B Preferred Stock shall have the right to receive dividends equal to one ten millionth (0.0000001) of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation (“EBITDAS”) calculated for a particular calendar year. Assuming the purchase of the entire $5,000 of shares of Preferred Stock, the holders thereof will be entitled to receive dividends equal to five percent (5%) in the aggregate of EBITDAS. Payment of dividends shall be calculated for a calendar year, payable on a quarterly basis, with payments to occur no later than 90 days in arrears from each reporting period subject to a year-end reconciliation. EBITDAS shall mean earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and stock-based compensation.

At such time as (i) all shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of all outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock (the “Conversion Shares”) shall have been registered for resale pursuant to an effective Registration Statement covering such Conversion Shares, (ii) but no earlier than the twenty-fifth (25th) anniversary of the effective date, the shares of Series B Preferred Stock shall be subject to redemption in cash at the option of the Company in an amount per share equal to 120% of the greater of (a) the stated value plus all accrued and unpaid dividends, if any and (b) the fair market value of such shares of Series B Preferred Stock.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

In addition, for each share of Series B Preferred Stock purchased, Philou will receive warrants to purchase shares of common stock in a number equal to the stated value of each share of Series B Preferred Stock purchased divided by $0.70, at an exercise price equal to $0.70 per share of common stock. The warrants do not require a net cash-settlement or provide the holder with a choice of net-cash settlement. The warrants also do not contain a variable settlement provision. Accordingly, any warrants issued to Philou pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement shall be classified as equity instruments.

Further, Philou shall have the right to participate in the Company’s future financings under substantially the same terms and conditions as other investors in those respective financings in order to maintain its then percentage ownership interest in the Company. Philou’s right to participate in such financings shall accrue and accumulate provided that it still owns at least 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock.

Between March 24, 2017 and June 2, 2017, Philou purchased 1,000,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement in consideration of the cancellation of the Company debt due to an affiliate of Philou in the amount of $250 and cash of $750. In addition, Philou received warrants to purchase 1,428,572 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.70 per share of common stock, which have been classified as equity instruments. The Company determined that the estimated relative fair value of these warrants, which are classified as equity, was $401 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Since the warrants were classified as equity securities, the Company allocated the $1,000 purchase price based on the relative fair values of the Series B Preferred Stock and the warrants following the guidance in ASC No. 470, Debt.

The Series B Convertible Preferred Stock is convertible at any time, in whole or in part, at the option of Philou, into shares of common stock at a fixed conversion price, which is subject to adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends, combinations or similar events, of $0.70 per share. As the effective conversion price of the Series B Convertible Preferred Stock on a converted basis was below the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance, it was determined that these discounts represent contingent beneficial conversion features, which were valued at $265 based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance.

The Company, however, is prohibited from issuing shares of common stock pursuant to the Series B Convertible Preferred Stock unless stockholder approval of such issuance of securities is obtained as required by applicable NYSE MKT listing rules. The Company has not yet received stockholder approval of such share issuances. This provision resulted in a contingent beneficial conversion feature that shall be recognized once the contingency is resolved. These features are analogous to preference dividends and shall be recorded as a non-cash return to preferred shareholders through accumulated deficit upon resolution of the contingency.

Series C Preferred Stock

Between May 24, 2017 and June 19, 2017, Digital Power entered into subscription agreements (the “Series C Subscription Agreement”) with approximately twenty accredited investors (the “Series C Investors”) in connection with the sale of twenty-one Units at a purchase price of $52 per Unit raising in the aggregate $1,092 with each Unit consisting of Series C Preferred Stock and Warrants. Each Unit consists of 21,667 shares of Series C Preferred Stock and Warrants to purchase 86,667 shares of common stock.

Each share of Series C Preferred Stock has a stated value of $2.40 per share. Each share of Series C Preferred Stock may be convertible at the holder’s option into shares of Common Stock of the Company at a conversion price of $0.60 per share, which, currently, represents four shares of Common Stock. The conversion price is subject to standard anti-dilution provisions in connection with any stock split, stock dividend, subdivision or similar reclassification of the Common Stock. Each share of Series C Preferred stock is mandatorily converted into shares of Common Stock based on the then conversion price in effect in the event that the Company’s Common Stock closing price exceeds $1.20 per share for 20 consecutive trading days. As the effective conversion price of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock on a converted basis was below the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance, it was determined that these discounts represent beneficial conversion features, which were valued at $371 and recognized as a deemed dividend, based on the difference between the effective conversion price and the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

Each share of Series C Preferred Stock has the right to receive dividends equal $0.24 per share per annum as declared by the Company’s Board of Directors. The dividends will be paid on a quarterly basis on the 20th day following each calendar quarter.

Each share of Series C Preferred Stock shall have dividend and liquidation rights in priority to any shares of Common Stock, the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock (of which none are outstanding) and any other subordinated securities; but shall be subordinated to any senior securities including the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock.

Each share of Series C Preferred Stock is subject to redemption by the Company for the stated value plus accrued but unpaid dividends five years after issuance, provided the holders of Series C Preferred Stock had not elected previously to convert the Series C Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock.

Series D Preferred Stock

 On June 2, 2017, pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement, the Company acquired 1,603,434 shares of the issued and outstanding common stock of Microphase Common Stock in exchange for the issuance by the Company of 1,842,448 shares of Digital Power’s Common Stock and 378,776 shares of Digital Power’s Series D Preferred Stock, no par value per share, and warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Digital Power’s Common Stock.

In the event the Company shall liquidate, dissolve or wind up, the holders of Series D Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of any of the assets of the Company to the holders of the Common Stock, the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, or to the holders of any other junior series of preferred stock, by reason of their ownership thereof and subject to the rights of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and any other class or series of Company stock subsequently issued that ranks senior to the Series D Preferred Stock, an amount per share in cash or equivalent value in securities or other consideration equal to its Stated Value of $0.01 per share.

The holders of Series D Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to receive dividends and shall have no voting rights except as otherwise required by law. Upon the shareholders of DPW Common Stock approving the conversion of the Series D Preferred Stock into shares of DPW Common Stock in connection with the acquisition of MPC Common Stock and for purposes of compliance with Rule 713 of the NYSE MKT, then each share of Series D Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into two shares of DPW Common Stock, for an aggregate of 757,552 shares of DPW Common Stock.

Series E Preferred Stock

On June 2, 2017, pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement and in consideration of legal services, Microphase issued a $450 8% promissory note with a maturity date of November 25, 2017 to an unsecured creditor, Lucosky Brookman, LLP (the “Lucosky Note”). In conjunction with the issuance of the Lucosky Note, the Company issued Lucosky Brookman 10,000 shares of Series E Preferred Stock, no par value per share, with a stated value equal to forty-five dollars ($45.00) per share. The Company, at its option, may redeem for cash, in whole or in part, at any time and from time to time, the shares of Series E Preferred Stock at the time outstanding, upon written notice to the holder of the shares, at a cash redemption price equal to $45 multiplied by the number of shares being redeemed. Any such optional redemption by the Company shall be credited against the Lucosky Note.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

In the event the Company shall liquidate, dissolve or wind up, the holders of Series E Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of any of the assets of the Company to the holders of the DPW Common Stock, the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, or to the holders of any other junior series of preferred stock, by reason of their ownership thereof and subject to the rights of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and any other class or series of Company stock subsequently issued that ranks senior to the Series E Preferred Stock an amount per share in cash or equivalent value in securities or other consideration equal to $0.01 per share. The holders of Series E Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to receive dividends and shall have no voting rights except as otherwise required by law. Subject to the shareholders of DPW Common Stock of the Company approving the conversion of the Series E Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock in connection with the acquisition of MPC Common Stock and for purposes of compliance with Rule 713 of the NYSE MKT, then each share of Series E Preferred Stock may be converted into sixty (60) shares of DPW Common Stock, for an aggregate of 600,000 shares of DPW Common Stock.

Common Stock

Common stock confers upon the holders the rights to receive notice to participate and vote in the generalat any meeting of shareholdersstockholders of the Company, to receive dividends, if and when declared, and to participate in a distribution of surplus of assets upon liquidation of the Company. The Class B common stock carries the voting power of 10 shares of Class A common stock, referred to herein as the Common Stock.

2019 Issuances

Wilson-Davis & Co. ATM Offering

 

On November 15, 2016,October 10, 2018, the Company entered into subscription agreementsan At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “2016 Subscription Agreements”“Sales Agreement”) with nine accredited investors. PursuantWilson-Davis & Co., Inc., as sales agent (the “Agent”) to sell shares of its common stock, having an aggregate offering price of up to $25,000,000 (the “Shares”) from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “WDCO ATM Offering”). During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company had received gross proceeds of $4,656,051 through the sale of 119,791 shares of the Company’s common stock through the WDCO ATM Offering. The offer and sale of the shares through the WDCO ATM Offering were made pursuant to our then effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the SEC on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the terms of the 2016 Subscription Agreements,WDCO ATM Offering, dated October 15, 2018.

Public Offering

On March 29, 2019, the Company sold 901,666 units at $0.60 forentered into an underwriting agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) with A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners (the “Underwriter”), pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue and sell an aggregate purchase price of approximately $541. Each unit consists(a) 71,388 shares of one share ofits common stock and one warrant(the “Shares”) together with warrants to purchase one share71,388 shares of common stock (the “Nov. 2016“Common Warrants”) and (b) pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 317,500 shares of its common stock (the “Pre-Funded Warrants”) together with a number of Common Warrants to purchase 317,500 shares of common stock (the “Offering”). The Shares were sold to the purchasers at the public offering price of $17.60 per share (the “Offering Price”). The Common Warrants were sold at a public offering price of $0.40 per Common Warrant. The Pre-Funded Warrants were offered to each purchaser whose purchase of the Shares and the Common Warrant in the Offering would otherwise result in the purchaser, together with its affiliates and certain related parties, beneficially owning more than 4.99% (or, at the election of the purchaser, 9.99%) of the Company’s outstanding common stock immediately following the consummation of the Offering. The purchase price of each Pre-Funded Warrant equaled the Offering Price at which the Shares were sold to the public in the Offering, minus $0.40, and the exercise price of each Pre-Funded Warrant equaled $0.40 per share. In addition, the Company has also issued the Underwriter a warrant to purchase a maximum of 15,550 additional shares of common stock at an initial exercise price of $19.80 per share, with a term of five years (the “Underwriter Warrants”).

The Common Warrants are exercisable at any time after the date of issuance at an exercise price of $0.80.$0.45 per share. However, since the volume weighted average price of the Company’s common stock on or after May 2, 2019, was less than $0.45 per share, the Common Warrant is exercisable by means of a cashless exercise such that the holder of the Common Warrant shall receive one common share for each warrant held.

Upon issuance, the Common Warrants, Pre-Funded Warrants and Underwriter Warrants (the “Offering Warrants”) were recorded at fair value and classified as a liability due to the attributes of the warrants, which included both cash settlement features and registration obligations. Since the fair value of the Offering Warrants exceeded the proceeds from the Offering the Company recognized a loss on issuance of warrants of $1,763,481. The fair value of the Offering Warrants was re-measured at each financial reporting period and immediately before exercise, with any changes in fair value recorded as change in fair value of warrant liability in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss. The fair value at issuance was calculated using a Black-Scholes option pricing model using a risk-free interest rate of 2.28%, an expected life of 5 years, expected dividends of zero and expected volatility of 87.51%.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

The 2016 Subscription Agreement provides that, until November 15, 2017, investors who purchased at least $100,000 haveCompany received net proceeds from the right to participate inOffering of $6,204,717, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses. The Company used the purchasenet proceeds from the Offering primarily for the repayment of up to 50% of the securities offered by the Company in any future financing transactions, with limited exceptions.debt.

 

The Nov. 2016 Warrants entitle the holders to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 901,666 sharesOffering closed on April 2, 2019 and as of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.80 per share for a period of three years. The Nov. 2016 Warrants are exercisable upon the six-month anniversary of the issuance date. The exercise price of the Nov. 2016 Warrants is subject to adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends, combinations and other standard anti-dilution events. The Nov. 2016 Warrants may be exercised for cash or, upon the failure to maintain an effective registration statement, on a cashless basis.

Between February 16, 2017 and February 23, 2017,December 31, 2019, the Company had issued 666,667a total of 771,275 shares of its common stock, inclusive of shares issued pursuant to the exercise of 317,500 Pre-Funded Warrants and 382,387 shares issued pursuant to the cashless exercise of the Common Warrants.

2019 Ascendiant ATM Offering

On August 6, 2019, the Company entered into an extinguishmentAt-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement with Ascendiant Capital Markets, LLC, as sales agent to sell shares of the Company’s common stock having an aggregate offering price of $0.60up to $5,500,000 (the “ATM Offering”). The offer and sale of the Company’s common stock was made pursuant to the Company’s effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on December 18, 2017, amended on January 8, 2018, and declared effective by the SEC on January 11, 2018, and a prospectus supplement related to the ATM Offering, dated August 6, 2019. Through December 31, 2019, the Company had received gross proceeds of $5,499,999 through the sale of 1,819,826 shares of the Company’s common stock from the ATM Offering.  

Issuance of Common Stock for Services

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company issued to its consultants a total 69,375 shares of its Common Stock with an aggregate value of $338,619, an average of $4.88 per share for the cancellation of $400 in demand promissory notes.services rendered.

 

On March 8, 2017,Issuance of common stock for conversion of debt

During the year ended December 31, 2019, principal and accrued interest of $4,238,878 and $497,417, respectively, on the Company’s debt securities was satisfied through the issuance of 370,473 shares of Common Stock.

Issuance of common stock in payment of accrued liability

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company issued an aggregate of 12,54966,740 shares of its common stock as payment for services to a consultant.  The shares were valued at $10, an averageCommon Stock in satisfaction of $0.80 per share.accrued liabilities of $175,377.

 

2020 Issuances

2020 Ascendiant ATM Offering

On March 15, 2017,October 2, 2020, the Company entered into a subscription agreementan At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with a related party forAscendiant Capital Markets, LLC to sell shares of Common Stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $8,975,000 from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program (the “2020 ATM Offering”). On December 1, 2020, the Company filed an amendment to the prospectus supplement with the SEC to increase the amount of Common Stock that may be offered and sold in the ATM Offering, as amended under the Sales Agreement to $40,000,000 in the aggregate, inclusive of the up to $8,975,000 in shares of Common Stock previously sold in the 2020 ATM Offering. The offer and sale of shares of Common Stock from the 2020 ATM Offering was made pursuant to the Company’s effective “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 and an accompanying base prospectus contained therein (Registration Statement No. 333-222132) which became effective on January 11, 2018. Through December 31, 2020, the Company had received gross proceeds of $39,978,350 through the sale of 500,00012,582,000 shares of common stock at $0.60 per share forCommon Stock from the aggregate purchase price of $300.2020 ATM Offering. The 2020 ATM Offering was terminated on December 31, 2020.

 

On April 5, 2017,

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

Issuances of Common Stock for Services

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued 360,002102,500 shares of its common stock, at a price of $0.75 per share, for the cancellation of $270 in demand promissory notes.

Between May 9, 2017 and June 18, 2017, the Company issued an aggregate of 956,153 shares of its common stockCommon Stock as payment for services to its consultant.consultants. The shares were valued at $498,$182,575, an average of $0.52$1.78 per shareshare.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollarsIssuance of common stock in thousands, except share and per share datapayment of short term advances, related party

 

On December 23, 2019, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with Ault & Company. Pursuant to the terms of this agreement, Ault & Company agreed to purchase an aggregate of 660,667 shares of Common Stock for a total purchase price of $739,948 at a purchase price per share of $1.12, subject to the approval of the NYSE American. The sale was authorized by the NYSE American on January 15, 2020. As a result, at the closing on January 15, 2020, Ault & Company became the beneficial owner of 660,667 shares of Common Stock.

Issuance of common stock in payment of accrued liability

On March 4, 2020, pursuant to the terms of the securities purchase agreement for the sale of the Dominion short-term promissory note, the Company issued to Dominion 12,500 shares of Common Stock in satisfaction of accrued liabilities of $73,154 (see Note 19).

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued 217,398 shares of Common Stock in satisfaction of accrued liabilities of $639,991. 

Issuance of common stock for conversion of debt

During the year ended December 31, 2020, principal and accrued interest of $6,411,795 and $2,196,599, respectively, on the Company’s debt securities was satisfied through the issuance of 9,632,219 shares of Common Stock. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of $15,572,326 as a result of these issuances.

On August 20, 2020, the Company issued 413,793 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $600,000 in principal on the Ault & Company Convertible Note.

Issuance of common stock upon exercise of warrants

Between November 24, 2020 and December 17, 2020, the Company issued a total of 814,095 shares of Common Stock upon the cash and cashless exercise of warrants to purchase an aggregate of 919,134 shares of Common Stock. These warrants were issued in conjunction with the following debt financings: (i) the 10% Convertible Promissory Note issued on April 13, 2020 (see Note 21), (ii) the May 2020 Promissory Notes issued on May 28, 2020 (see Note 19) and (iii) the June 28,’20 Short-Term Promissory Notes issued on June 26, 2020 (see Note 19). The Company received cash of $52,826 and extinguished warrant liabilities of $824,349 as a result of these warrant exercises.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

25. INCOME TAXES

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets are as follows:

  2020  2019 
Deferred tax asset:        
Allowance for doubtful accts $359,598  $163,123 
UNICAP  9,904   16,314 
Obsolete inventory  2,811   41,131 
Reserves     1,641,874 
Warrant liability     2,330 
Accrued compensation  138,283   89,089 
Credit carryforwards  142,484   142,484 
Stock compensation  880,766   430,274 
Fixed assets, net  483,923   1,278,863 
Contribution, carryforward  70   62 
Accrued interest expense  68,148   22,414 
Net operating loss carryforwards  

5,912,511

   11,602,532 
Lease liability  798,047   899,722 
Credit loss  559,593   995,184 
Accrued expenses  461,973     
Excess of capital losses over capital gains  123,297     
Total deferred tax asset  

9,941,408

   17,325,396 
         
Deferred tax liability:        
ROU assets  (756,204)  (870,886)
Intangible assets, net  (160,318)  (209,044)
State taxes  (1,119)   
Total deferred income tax liabilities  (917,641)  (1,079,930)
         
Net deferred income tax assets  9,023,766   16,245,466 
Valuation allowance  (9,037,861)  (16,308,197)
Deferred tax asset (liability), net $(14,095) $(62,731)

At December 31, 2020, the Company had Federal net operating loss carry forwards (“NOLs”) for income tax purposes of approximately $18,568,667 after applying the §382 limitation. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) signed in to law on March 27, 2020, provided that NOLs generated in a taxable year beginning in 2018, 2019, or 2020, may now be carried back five years and forward indefinitely. In addition, the 80% taxable income limitation is temporarily removed, allowing NOLs to fully offset net taxable income. In accordance with Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, the future utilization of the Company’s net operating loss to offset future taxable income is subject to an annual limitation as a result of ownership changes that have occurred previously. Management believes that such an ownership change may have occurred at various points in 2019 and 2020. The Company has estimated the Section 382 annual limitation due to this ownership change to be approximately $41,969,444. This has been used to reduce the amount of the net operating losses for which deferred tax assets have been recognized as of December 31, 2020.

At December 31, 2020, Microphase, an entity not consolidated for income tax purposes, had NOLs of approximately $1,949,316 after applying the §382 limitation. NOLs generated in a taxable year beginning in 2018, 2019, or 2020, may be carried back five years and forward indefinitely. In accordance with Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, the future utilization of the Company’s net operating loss to offset future taxable income have been limited as a result of ownership changes that have occurred previously.

In assessing the realization of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which temporary differences representing net future deductible amounts become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax assets, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. After consideration of all of the information available and due to the last five years significant losses there is substantial doubt related to the Company’s ability to utilize its deferred tax assets, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance of the deferred tax asset. For the year ended December 31, 2020, the valuation allowance has decreased by $7,270,336.

The 2016 through 2019 tax years remains open to examination by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), the California Franchise Tax Board (“FTB”) and the Connecticut Department of Revenue (“CDR”). The IRS, FTB and CDR have the authority to examine those tax years until the applicable statute of limitations expires and the years with net operating loss carryovers when such carryovers are used.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

As of December 31, 2020, the Company’s foreign subsidiaries had accumulated losses for income tax purposes in the amount of approximately $2,977,113. All of the Company’s international accumulated losses were generated in the United Kingdom and Israel which have statutory tax rates of 19% and 7.5% respectively. These net operating losses may be carried forward and offset against taxable income in the future for an indefinite period.

The net income tax benefit consists of the following:

  2020  2019 
Current      
US Federal $  $ 
US State      
Foreign  24,842    
Total current provision  24,842    
Deferred        
US Federal      
US State      
Foreign  (48,636)  (108,293)
Total deferred benefit  (23,794)  (108,293)
Total provision for income taxes $(23,794) $(108,293)

The Company’s effective tax rates were 0.1% and 0.4% for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the effective tax rate differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to the change in the valuation allowance and the effect of changes in tax rates in future periods. The reconciliation of income tax attributable to operations computed at U.S. Federal statutory income tax rates of 21% to income tax expense is as follows:

  2020  2019 
Expected federal income tax benefit  21.0%  21.0%
Beneficial conversion feature  (0.1%)  (0.6%)
Deconsolidation of I.AM  1.5%    
Loss on extinguishment of debt  (9.8%)    
State taxes net of federal benefit  8.1%  3.5%
Foreign rate differential  (0.3%)  (0.2%)
Section 382 limitation  (34.7%)   
Return to provision adjustment  (7.8%)    
Effect of change in valuation allowance  21.1%  (21.9%)
Other  1.1%  (1.4%)
Income tax benefit  0.1%  0.4%

The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC No. 740-10-25. ASC No. 740-10-25 addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under ASC No. 740-10-25, the Company may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit to be recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. To the extent that the final tax outcome of these matters is different than the amount recorded, such differences impact income tax expense in the period in which such determination is made. Interest and penalties, if any, related to accrued liabilities for potential tax assessments are included in income tax expense. ASC No. 740-10-25 also requires management to evaluate tax positions taken by the Company and recognize a liability if the Company has taken uncertain tax positions that more likely than not would not be sustained upon examination by applicable taxing authorities. Management of the Company has evaluated tax positions taken by the Company and has concluded that as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, there are no uncertain tax positions taken, or expected to be taken, that would require recognition of a liability that would require disclosure in the financial statements.

F-58

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

26. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

a.The Company and AVLP entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (“AVLP Loan Agreement”) with an effective date of August 21, 2017. At December 31, 2020, the Company has provided loans to AVLP in the principal amount $11,269,136 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase 22,537,871 shares of AVLP common stock. Under the terms of the AVLP Loan Agreement, any notes issued by AVLP are secured by the assets of AVLP. As of December 31, 2020, the Company recorded contractual interest receivable attributed to the AVLP Loan Agreement of $2,025,475, and a provision for loan loss of $3,423,608.

During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company also acquired in the open market 5,000 shares of AVLP common stock for $1,274 and 91,000 shares of AVLP common stock for $53,032, respectively. At December 31, 2020, the Company’s investment in AVLP common stock had an unrealized loss of $248,248.

Philou is AVLP’s controlling shareholder. Mr. Ault is Chairman of AVLP’s Board of Directors and the Executive Chairman of the Company. Mr. Horne is the Chief Financial Officer and a director of AVLP and Chief Executive Officer and the Vice Chairman of the Company. Mr. Nisser is General Counsel of AVLP and President, General Counsel and a director of the Company.

In March 2017, the Company issued 189,091was awarded a $50 million purchase order by MTIX to manufacture, install and service the Multiplex Laser Surface Enhancement (“MLSE”) plasma-laser system. On April 12, 2019, the Company received payment of $2,676,219 for manufacturing services performed on the first MLSE system. At December 31, 2020, the Company had recorded a receivable from MTIX of $1,196,379.

b.At December 31, 2020, the Company has provided Alzamend a short-term advance of $750,000 and invested $50,000 in an 8% convertible promissory note. In conjunction with the issuance of the 8% convertible promissory note, Alzamend issued to the Company warrants to purchase 16,667 shares of Alzamend common stock at an exercise price of $3.00 per share for a period of five years. The Company computed the fair value of the warrants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and, as a result of this calculation, recorded discount in the amount of $11,872 based on the estimated fair value of the warrants. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company recorded $8,002 of interest income for the discount accretion and $1,337 of interest income from the contractual 8% rate provided for by the convertible promissory notes. At December 31, 2020, the Company recorded a cumulative unrealized loss on its investment in warrants of Alzamend of $453, representing the difference between the cost basis and the estimated fair value of the warrants in the Company’s net loss from continuing operations on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.

During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company also acquired 55,263 shares of Alzamend common stock for $44,210 and 372,625 shares of Alzamend common stock for $208,100, respectively. At December 31, 2020, the unrealized gain of $38,684 estimated fair value of Alzamend’s common stock was $1.50. The Company has determined that its investment in Alzamend marketable equity securities should be accounted for in accordance with ASC No. 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures and based upon the estimated fair value of Alzamend common stock at a priceDecember 31, 2020, the Company’s investment in AVLP common stock had an unrealized gain of $0.55 per share, for the cancellation of a 7% convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $104.$389,522.

 

On June 28, 2017,Mr. Ault is Executive Chairman of Alzamend’s Board of Directors and the holders of $55 of in short-term loans agreed to cancel their notes for the purchase of 100,001 sharesExecutive Chairman of the Digital Power’s common stock atCompany. Mr. Horne is a pricedirector of $0.55 per share.

14. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONAlzamend and Chief Executive Officer and the Vice Chairman of the Company. Mr. Nisser is General Counsel and a director of Alzamend and President, General Counsel and a director of the Company. Kenneth S. Cragun is Chief Financial Officer of Alzamend and the Company.

 

a.

c.

In anticipationDuring the year ended December 31, 2020, Ault & Company has provided $256,507 in short-term advances, of which $256,507 was repaid and the balance as of December 31, 2020, was zero. Ault and Company is the Manager of Philou which presently owns 125,000 shares of the acquisitionCompany’s Series B Preferred Stock. Mr. Ault and Mr. Horne serve as the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively, of MTIX Ltd., an advanced materials and processing technology company located in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK (“MTIX”) by AVLP and the expectation of future business generated by the Company from a strategic investment into AVLP,Ault & Company.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

d.On December 22, 2019, the Company entered into the AVLP Notes, three 12% Convertible Promissory Notes agreements in the principal amount of $525 each. After six months, the Company has a right, at its option, to convert all or any portion of the principal and accrued interest into shares of common stock of AVLP at approximately $0.74536 per share. Subject to adjustment, the AVLP Notes, inclusive of the original issue discount, are convertible into 2,113,086 shares of the Company’s common stock.

During the period from March 29, 2017 to June, 2017, the Company funded $970 in excess of the $1,500 net loan amount required pursuantsecurities purchase agreement with Ault & Company. Pursuant to the terms of the AVLP Notes. Theagreement, Ault & Company and AVLP have agreed that these additional advances shall feature terms mirroring thosepurchased an aggregate of 660,667 shares of the AVLP Notes, including 12% annual interest and an original issue discountCommon Stock for a total purchase price of 5%; however, in addition to these terms, the Company and AVLP are in the process$739,948, at a purchase price per share of finalizing additional terms that will be incorporated into a fourth convertible promissory note agreement (See Note 4). 

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, the Company invested $1,520 pursuant to the AVLP Notes and acquired 17,080 shares of AVLP common stock in the open market for $7.

During the three months ended December 31, 2016, the Company invested $950 pursuant to the AVLP Notes and acquired 250,900 shares of AVLP common stock in the open market for $85.

Philou is AVLP’s controlling shareholder.  Mr. Ault is Chairman of AVLP’s Board of Directors and the Executive Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. William B. Horne is the Chief Financial Officer of AVLP and also the audit committee chairman of the Company.

On October 24, 2016, AVLP entered into a letter of intent to acquire MTIX and made an initial payment of $50 towards the purchase. On March 3, 2017, AVLP entered into a Share Exchange Agreement with MTIX and the three current shareholders of MTIX.  Upon the terms and$1.12, subject to the conditions set forth in the Share Exchange Agreement, AVLP will acquire MTIX from the MTIX shareholders through the transfer of all issued and outstanding ordinary shares of MTIX (the “MTIX Shares”) by the MTIX shareholders to AVLP in exchange for the issuance by AVLP of: (a) 7% secured convertible promissory notes in the aggregate principal face amount of $9,500 to the MTIX shareholders in pro rata amounts commensurate with their current respective ownership percentages of MTIX’s ordinary shares, (b) (i) $500 in cash, $50 of which was paid on October 26, 2016, and (ii) 100,000 shares of AVLP’s newly designated shares of Class B Convertible Preferred Stock to the principal shareholder of MTIX.

On the closing date, the fully-diluted AVLP shares shall be approximately 52 million shares of common stock, assuming that (i) the MTIX promissory notes are convertible into shares of AVLP common stock at a conversion price of $0.50 per share, (ii) the shares of AVLP Class B Convertible Preferred Stock are convertible into shares of AVLP common stock at a conversion rate of $0.50 per share and (iii) the issuance of stock options to purchase an aggregate of 531,919 shares of AVLP common stock to the membersapproval of the MTIX management group.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

During March 2017,NYSE American. The NYSE American approved the Company was awarded a 3-year, $50 million purchase order by MTIX to manufacture, install and service the MLSE plasma-laser system.

b.

On September 22, 2016, the Company entered into consulting agreement with Mr. Ault to assist the Company in developing a business strategy, identifying new business opportunities, developing a capital raising program and implementing of a capital deployment program.  For his services, Mr. Ault was paid $90 during the six months ended June 30, 2017.

on January 15, 2020.

 

c.

e.

On October 21, 2016,February 5, 2020, the Company entered into a 12%issued an 8% convertible securedpromissory note in the principal amount of $530$1,000,000 and warrantsa maturity date of August 5, 2020 to Ault & Company (see Note 20). On August 20, 2020, the Company issued 413,793 shares of Common Stock upon the conversion of $600,000 in principal on the Ault & Company Convertible Note.

f.On June 18, 2019, Ault & Company guaranteed the prompt and complete payment and performance of a 10% senior secured promissory note with a principal face amount of $2,900,000.

g.During January 2020, Milton C. Ault, III, the Barry Blank Living Trust, an existing stockholderCompany’s Executive Chairman of the Company, for $500 due on October 20, 2019. The principal amount ofBoard and MCKEA guaranteed the Company’s obligation to repay a 12% convertible securedshort-term promissory note may be convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.55 per share. Subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, the Barry Blank Living Trust may convertin the principal amount of $235,796. MCKEA is the convertible note at any time into common stock. During the six months ended June 30, 2017 the Company recorded interest expensesmajority member of $32 on the convertible note obligation.

d.

On December 29, 2016, the Company received a $250 short term loan from MCKEA.Philou and Kristine L. Ault, a director of the Company and the wife of Mr. Ault III, is the managing membermanager and owner of MCKEA which, in turn, is the Manager of Philou, the majority stockholder of the Company. On March 24, 2017, the $250 loan was cancelled in consideration for the issuance of 25,000 shares of Series B preferred stock of the Company to Philou. During the six months ended June 30, 2017 the Company recorded interest expenses of $3 on the short term loan from MCKEA.

e.

In February 2017, the Company issued to eight accredited investors $400 in demand promissory notes bearing interest at a rate of 6% per annum. Of the eight accredited investors, one investor was deemed a related party.

f.

On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou. Pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement, Philou may invest up to $5,000,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over 36 months. Between March 24, 2017 and June 2, 2017, Philou purchased 100,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms of the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement.

g.

On March 15, 2017, Company entered into a subscription agreement with a related party for the sale of 500,000 shares of common stock at $0.60 per share for the aggregate purchase price of $300.

h.

On March 20, 2017, the Company received a $250 short term loan from JLA Realty, an entity which owns 666,667 shares of the Company’s common stock, constituting approximately 7.5% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock, on behalf of Philou. The proceeds from this short term loan comprised a portion of Philou’s purchase of Series B Preferred Stock.

i.

Between May 5, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company received additional short-term loans of $140 from four accredited investors of which $75 was from the Company’s corporate counsel, a related party. As additional consideration, the investors received five-year warrants to purchase 224,371 shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $0.77 per share.On June 28, 2017, $52 in short-term loans that was received from the related party was converted into one of the Series C Units (See Note 9).

 

15.27. SEGMENT, CUSTOMERS AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

 

The Company has twothree reportable geographic segments;segments as of December 31, 2020 and 2019; see Note 1 for a brief description of the Company’sCompany’s business.

 

The following data presents the revenues, expenditures and other operating data of the Company’s geographicCompany’s operating segments and presented in accordance with ASC No. 280. The total loss from operations of the Company’s reportable segments is less than the Company’s consolidated loss from operations due to Ault Global Holdings corporate expenses.

 


  Year ended December 31, 2020 
  GWW  Coolisys  Ault Alliance  Total 
Revenue $18,212,721  $5,416,138  $  $23,628,859 
Revenue, lending activities        242,418   242,418 
Total revenues $18,212,721  $5,416,138  $242,418  $23,871,277 
Depreciation and                
amortization expense $586,850  $33,010  $107,513  $727,373 
Loss from operations $

(955,299

) $(117,067) $19,200  $

(1,053,166

)
Capital expenditures for                
segment assets, as of                
December 30, 2020 $552,923  $26,425  $2,744  $582,092 
Identifiable assets as of                
December 31, 2020 $27,897,772  $1,894,892  $45,850,718  $75,643,382 

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2017 (unaudited)

 

 

 

DPC

 

 

DPL

 

 

Eliminations

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

2,329

 

 

$

1,121

 

 

$

 

 

$

3,450

 

Inter-segment revenues

 

$

37

 

 

$

 

 

$

(37

)

 

$

 

Total revenues

 

$

2,366

 

 

$

1,121

 

 

$

(37

)

 

$

3,450

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

$

43

 

 

$

37

 

 

$

 

 

$

80

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

$

(2,140

)

 

$

(91

)

 

$

 

 

$

(2,231

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(614

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

112

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(2,733

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures for segment assets, as of June 30, 2017

 

$

8

 

 

$

13

 

 

$

 

 

$

21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Identifiable assets as of June 30, 2017

 

$

12,315

 

 

$

1,666

 

 

$

 

 

$

13,981

 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

 

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2016 (unaudited)

 

 

 

DPC

 

 

DPL

 

 

Eliminations

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

2,160

 

 

$

1,617

 

 

$

 

 

$

3,777

 

Inter-segment revenues

 

$

62

 

 

$

 

 

$

(62

)

 

$

 

Total revenues

 

$

2,222

 

 

$

1,617

 

 

$

(62

)

 

$

3,777

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

$

38

 

 

$

45

 

 

$

 

 

$

83

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

$

(181

)

 

$

(8

)

 

$

 

 

$

(189

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

62

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(127

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures for segment assets, as of June 30, 2016

 

$

23

 

 

$

51

 

 

$

 

 

$

74

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Identifiable assets as of June 30, 2016

 

$

2,157

 

 

$

2,407

 

 

$

 

 

$

4,564

 


  Year ended December 31, 2019 
  GWW  Coolisys  Ault Alliance  Total 
Revenue $15,231,843  $5,825,666  $  $21,057,509 
Revenue, cryptocurrency                
mining        641,745   641,745 
Revenue, lending activities        662,740   662,740 
Total revenues $15,231,843  $5,825,666  $1,304,485  $22,361,994 
Depreciation and                
amortization expense $705,873  $121,618  $2,245,676  $3,073,167 
Loss from operations $(828,424) $(1,327,259) $(8,612,277) $(10,767,960)
Capital expenditures for                
segment assets, as of                
December 31, 2019 $34,899  $133,198  $21,205  $189,302 
Identifiable assets as of                
December 31, 2019 $20,847,352  $18,901,630  $3,001,426  $42,750,408 

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2017 (unaudited)

 

 

 

DPC

 

 

DPL

 

 

Eliminations

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

1,316

 

 

$

506

 

 

$

 

 

$

1,822

 

Inter-segment revenues

 

$

12

 

 

$

 

 

$

(12

)

 

$

 

Total revenues

 

$

1,328

 

 

$

506

 

 

$

(12

)

 

$

1,822

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

$

27

 

 

$

20

 

 

$

 

 

$

47

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

$

(1,396

)

 

$

(48

)

 

$

 

 

$

(1,444

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(407

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

112

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(1,739

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures for segment assets, as of June 30, 2017

 

$

8

 

 

$

11

 

 

$

 

 

$

19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Identifiable assets as of June 30, 2017

 

$

12,315

 

 

$

1,666

 

 

$

 

 

$

13,981

 

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2016 (unaudited)

 

 

 

DPC

 

 

DPL

 

 

Eliminations

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

1,212

 

 

$

852

 

 

$

 

 

$

2,064

 

Inter-segment revenues

 

$

6

 

 

$

 

 

$

(56

)

 

$

 

Total revenues

 

$

1,268

 

 

$

852

 

 

$

(56

)

 

$

2,064

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

$

19

 

 

$

24

 

 

$

 

 

$

43

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

$

33

 

 

$

(22

)

 

$

 

 

$

11

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

55

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

66

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures for segment assets, as of June 30, 2016

 

$

 

 

$

3

 

 

$

 

 

$

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Identifiable assets as of June 30, 2016

 

$

2,157

 

 

$

2,407

 

 

$

 

 

$

4,564

 


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share dataConcentration Risk:

 

The following table provides the percentage of total revenues attributable to a single customer from which 10% or more of total revenues are derived:

 

 

 

For the three months ended June 30, 2017

 

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

Total Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

by Major

 

 

Percentage of

 

 

by Major

 

 

Percentage of

 

 

 

Customers

 

 

Total Company

 

 

Customers

 

 

Total Company

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

Revenues

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

Revenues

 

Customer A

 

$

320

 

 

 

19

%

 

$

629

 

 

 

18

%

  For the Year Ended 
  December 31, 2020 
  Total Revenues  Percentage of 
  by Major  Total Company 
  Customers  Revenues 
Customer A $7,741,858   32%
Customer B $2,502,264   10%

 

 

 

For the three months ended June 30, 2016

 

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

Total Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

by Major

 

 

Percentage of

 

 

by Major

 

 

Percentage of

 

 

 

Customers

 

 

Total Company

 

 

Customers

 

 

Total Company

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

Revenues

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

Revenues

 

Customer A

 

$

443

 

 

 

21

%

 

$

768

 

 

 

20

%

Customer B

 

$

287

 

 

 

14

%

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

  For the Years Ended 
  December 31, 2019 
  Total Revenues  Percentage of 
  by Major  Total Company 
  Customers  Revenues 
Customer A $6,319,221   28%

 

Revenue from Customer A wasis attributable to Digital Power and revenueEnertec. Revenue from Customer B and Cis attributable to DP Limited.Microphase.

 

For the threeyears ended December 31, 2020 and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016,2019, total revenues from external customers divided on the basis of the Company’sCompany’s product lines are as follows:

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended June 30,

 

For the Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 For the Year Ended 

 

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

 

 December 31, 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 2020  2019 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

Commercial products

 

$

1,083

 

$

1,413

 

$

2,023

 

$

2,460

 

 $7,040,390  $8,953,390 

Defense products

 

 

739

 

 

651

 

 

1,427

 

 

1,317

 

  

16,830,887

   13,408,604 

Total revenues

 

$

1,822

 

$

2,064

 

$

3,450

 

$

3,777

 

 $

23,871,277

  $22,361,994 

 

Financial data relating to geographic areas:

 

The Company’sCompany’s total revenues are attributed to geographic areas based on the location. The following table presents total revenues for the threeyears ended December 31, 2020 and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.2019. Other than as shown, no foreign country or region contributed materially to revenues or long-lived assets for these periods:

 


       
  For the Year Ended 
  December 31, 
  2020  2019 
Revenues:      
North America $11,460,436  $10,923,146 
Europe  2,328,835   8,681,023 
Middle East  

9,273,158

   1,678,256 
Other  808,848   1,079,569 
Total revenues $

23,871,277

  $22,361,994 

 

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

 

 

For the Three Months Ended June 30,

 

 

For the Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

North America

 

$

1,184

 

 

$

1,287

 

 

$

2,180

 

 

$

2,226

 

Europe

 

 

386

 

 

 

490

 

 

 

901

 

 

 

1,244

 

South Korea

 

 

116

 

 

 

287

 

 

 

219

 

 

 

297

 

Other

 

 

136

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

150

 

 

 

10

 

Total revenues

 

$

1,822

 

 

$

2,064

 

 

$

3,450

 

 

$

3,777

 

16.28. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

In accordance with FASB ASC 855-10, the Company has analyzed its operations subsequent to MarchDecember 31, 20172020, and thru the date of this report being issued and has determined that it does not have any material subsequent events to disclose in these financial statements except for the following.

 

On July 6, 2017, the Company received funding as a result of entering into two Agreements for the Purchase and Sale of Future Receipts with TVT Capital LLC pursuant to which the Company sold in the aggregate $1,091,220 in Future Receipts of the Company for $780,000. Under the terms of the agreements, the Company will be obligated to pay the initial daily amount of $5,456.50 which represents the product of the Company’s average monthly sales times 15% divided by the average business days in a calendar month until the $1,091,220 has been paid in full. The term Future Receipts means cash, check, ACH, credit card, debit card, bank card, charged card or other form of monetary payment.

2021 ATM Offering

 

On July 24 2017, we entered into subscription agreements with six investors, and on July 25, 2017 we entered into securities purchase agreements (the “Securities Purchase Agreement”) with an institutional investor, under which we agreed to issue and sell in the aggregate 851,363 shares of common stock to the investors at $0.55 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $468,250. Of the aggregate purchase price of $468,250, $345,250 will be paid in cash and $123,000 will be in consideration for the cancellation of debt of the Company.

In a concurrent private placement, we agreed to sell to the institutional investor warrants to purchase an aggregate of 163,636 shares of the Company’s common stock, no par value per share (“Common Stock”), at an exercise price equal to $0.55 per share (“Warrant”) (the “Private Placement”).

We expect to receive aggregate net cash proceeds, after deducting estimated expenses related to the registered direct offering and the private placement, in the amount of approximately $335,250. We intend to use the net proceeds from this offering to pay off a convertible note in the aggregate of $125,000 and certain expenses related thereto. The remaining balance will be used for working capital.

On July 28 2017, we entered into an Exchange Agreement with an institutional investor who is an owner of (i) a convertible note in the principal amount of $125,000 (“Convertible Note”) dated April 17, 2017, and due June 2, 2017 and in which the principal is convertible into shares of common stock at $0.75 per share; and (ii) a warrant dated April 17, 2017 to purchase 83,334 shares of our common stock at $0.90 (“Prior Warrant”). Under the terms of the Exchange Agreement, we agreed to exchange (i) the Convertible Note for three new promissory notes in the principal amounts of $110,000 due August 1, 2017; $35,000 due August 1, 2017; and $34,000 due August 8, 2017 (individually an Exchange Note and collectively the Exchange Notes) and (ii) the Prior Warrant for a new Warrant (“Exchange Warrant”) to purchase 83,334 shares of common stock at $0.55 per share.

Concurrent with entering into the Exchange Agreement, the institutional investor entered into a subscription agreement under which we agreed to issue and sell in a registered direct offering 200,000 shares of common stock at $0.55 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $110,000 (“Registered Direct Offering”). The 200,000 shares of common stock will be purchased through the cancellation of the Exchange Note in the principal amount of $110,000.


DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Unaudited (Continued)

JUNE 30, 2017

U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data

In addition, in a concurrent private placement (the “Private Placement”), the institutional investor entered into a separate securities purchase agreement under which we agreed to issue and sell 63,600 shares of common stock at $0.55 per share for an aggregate of purchase price of $35,000. The 63,600 shares of common stock will be purchased through the cancellation of the Exchange Note in the principal amount of $35,000. Further, we issued a warrant to purchase 120,000 shares of common stock at $0.55 per share (“Warrant”).

On August 3, 2017,January 22, 2021, the Company entered into a Securities Purchasean At-The-Market Issuance Sales Agreement, (“Agreement”) to sell a 12% Convertible (“Convertible Note”)as amended on February 17, 2021 and a warrant to purchase 666,666 shares of common stock to an accredited investorthereafter on March 5, 2021 (the “Investor”). The principal of the Convertible Note may be converted into shares of common stock at $0.55 per share and under the terms of the Warrant, up to 666,666 shares of common stock may be purchased at an exercise price of $0.70 per share.

The Convertible Note is in the principal amount of $400,000 and was sold for $360,000, bears interest at 12% simple interest on the principal amount, and is due on August 13, 2018. Interest only payments are due on a quarterly basis and the principal is due on August 3, 2018. The principal may be converted into shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.55 per share.  

On August 3, 2017, Coolisys Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (““2021 Sales Agreement”) to acquire all of the outstanding Membership Interests of Power-Plus Technical Distributors, LLC, a California limited liability company. Power-Plus Technical Distributors is an industrial distributor of value added power supply solutions, UPS systems, fans, filters, line cords, and other power-related components. For the year ended December 31, 2016, Power-Plus Technical Distributor generated revenues of approximately $2,200.

Under the terms of the Agreement, Coolisys Technologies will acquire all of the Membership Interests of Power-Plus Technical Distributors for the purchase price of $850,000. The purchase price of $850,000 will be paid by (i) the assumption of loans (or pay off of such loans) in the approximate amount of $198,000; (ii) a two year promissory note in the amount of $255,000 payable in 24 monthly installments; and (iii) cash at closing of approximately $397,000. The closing of the acquisition of the Membership Interests in Power-Plus Technical Distributors is subject to certain conditions including entering into agreements with Power-Plus Technical Distributors’ banks to allow Coolisys Technologies to assume such loans or payoff such loans. It is anticipated that the closing will occur on or around September 1, 2017.

On August 10, 2017, Digital Power Corporation, a California corporation (the “Company”), entered into Securities Purchase Agreements (“Agreements”) with five institutional investors (the “Investors”) to sell for an aggregate purchase price of $800,000, 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Notes (“Convertible Notes”) with an aggregate principal face amount of $880,000 and warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,466,667 shares of common stock. The principal of the Convertible Notes and interest earned thereon may be converted into shares of common stock at $0.60 per share and under the terms of the Warrant, up to 1,466,667 shares of common stock may be purchased at an exercise price of $0.66 per share.

The Convertible Notes are in the aggregate principal amount of $880,000 and were sold for $800,000 and bear simple interest at 10% on the principal amount, and principal and interest are due on February 10, 2018. Subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, each Investor may convert the principal amount of the Convertible Note and accrued interest earned thereon at any time into shares of common stock at $0.60 per share. The conversion price of the Convertible Notes is subject to adjustment for customary stock splits, stock dividends, combinationsAscendiant Capital Markets, LLC, or similar events.


ITEM 2.          MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

In this quarterly report, the “Company,” “Digital Power,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Digital Power Corporation, a California corporation, our wholly-owned subsidiary, Digital Power Limited and our majority owned subsidiary, Microphase Corporation.

GENERAL

We are a growth company seeking to increase our revenues through acquisitions.  Our strategy reflects our management and Board’s current philosophy that occurred as a result of a change in control completed in September 2016.  Our acquisition and development target strategy includes companies that have developed a “new way of doing business” in mature, well-developed industries experiencing changes due to new technology; companies that may become profitable or more profitable through efficiency and reduction of costs; companies that are related to our core business in the commercial and defense industries; and companies that will enhance our overall revenues.  It is our goal to substantially increase our gross revenues in the near future.

We were originally a solution-driven organization that designs, develops, manufactures and sells high-grade customized and flexible power system solutions for the the medical, military, telecom and industrial markets.  Although we intend to seek growth through acquisitions, we will continue to focus on high-grade and custom product designs for the commercial, medical and military/defense markets, where customers demand high density, high efficiency and ruggedized products to meet the harshest and/or military mission critical operating conditions.

We have operations located in Europe through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Digital Power Limited ("DP Limited"), Salisbury, England, which operates under the brand name of “Gresham Power Electronics” (“Gresham”).  DP Limited designs, manufactures and sells power products and system solutions mainly for the European marketplace, including power conversion, power distribution equipment, DC/AC (Direct Current/Active Current) inverters and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) products. Our European defense business is specialized in the field of naval power distribution products.

On June 2, 2017, Digital Power purchased 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase Corporation (the “Microphase”). Microphase is a design-to-manufacture original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) industry leader delivering world-class radio frequency (“RF”) and microwave filters, diplexers, multiplexers, detectors, switch filters, integrated assemblies and detector logarithmic video amplifiers (“DLVA”) to the military, aerospace and telecommunications industries. Microphase is headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut.

We are a California corporation formed in 1969 and located in the heart of the Silicon Valley at 48430 Lakeview Blvd, Fremont, California 94538-3158.  Our phone number is 510-657-2635 and our website address is www.digipwr.com.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

Revenues

Our revenues decreased by $242 or 5.0% to $1,822 for the three months ended June 30, 2017, from $2,064 for the three months ended June 30, 2016. The decrease in revenue was primarily the result of a decrease in shipments from commercial and military products manufactured by the Company’s European operation in Gresham, U.K. (“DP Limited”). The decrease attributed to DP Limited was partially offset by our acquisition of a majority interest in Microphase. On June 2, 2017, we acquired 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase. As such, our consolidated revenues include those revenues generated by Microphase during the period from June 3, 2017 to June 30, 2017, in the amount of $223.


Revenues from our U.S. operations increased by 8.6% to $1,316 for the three months ended June 30, 2017, from $1,212 for the three months ended June 30, 2016. As previously noted, our consolidated revenues include $223 in revenues generated by Microphase. If we had not closed on our acquisition of Microphase, then revenues from our U.S. operations would have been $1,093, a decrease of 9.8%. The slight decrease in revenues from our U.S. operations is attributed to a decrease in sales of our legacy products.

Revenues from our European operations of DP Limited decreased by 40.6% to $506 for the three months ended June 30, 2017, from $852 for the three months ended June 30, 2016. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease of military and commercial products sales and the impact of a weakening of the British Pound and Euro against the USD. The decline in commercial product sales was mainly attributed to standard commodity products. The decline in military product sales was attributed to technical changes in design of one of our development contracts.

Gross Margins

Gross margins increased to 40.1% for the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to 36.5% for the three months ended June 30, 2016. The increase in gross margins was mainly attributable to the increase in sales of our commercial products sold in our U.S. operations, which have greater gross margins, combined with the decrease in sales from our European operations.

Engineering and Product Development

Engineering and product development expenses increased by $95 to $265 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 from $170 for the three months ended June 30, 2016. The increase is partly attributed to our acquisition of Microphase, which reported $55 in engineering and product development expenses. The remaining increase was primarily related to an increase in direct manpower cost from the addition of a new Head of Engineering and Technology, a highly-compensated position that was created during the fourth quarter of 2016.

Selling and Marketing

Selling and marketing expenses were $327 for the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to $233 for the three months ended June 30, 2016, an increase of $94. Our acquisition of Microphase accounted for $9 of the increase in selling and marketing expenses. The remaining increase is attributed to an increase in personnel costs directly attributed to sales and marketing personnel at Digital Power’s U.S. based operations. Beginning in December 2016 and throughout the quarter ended March 31, 2017, we augmented our sales and marketing team with the addition of a Vice President of Business Development and two regional sales managers. During the three months ended June 30, 2016, the services of our current Chief Executive Officer were reported within selling and marketing expenses due to the significant amount of time in which he devoted to the sales process. The increase in the headcount of our sales and marketing team allowed our CEO to spend the majority of his time on general corporate matters related to our restructuring and expansion. As such, during the three months ended June 30, 2017, the salary of our Chief Executive officer, which is $300 per year, was reported within general and administrative expenses. The increase in selling and marketing expenses is attributed to the increase in salaries and benefits and travel related costs for the three new sales and marketing positions and partially offset by the allocation of our Chief Executive Officer’s salary to general and administrative expense.

General and Administrative

General and administrative expenses were $1,582 for the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to $340 for the three months ended June 30, 2016, an increase of $1,242. Our acquisition of Microphase accounted for $167 of the increase in general and administrative expenses. The adjusted increase of $1,075 from the comparative prior period was mainly due to higher stock based compensation expenses, an increase in legal and audit costs, an increase in investor relationship costs and hiring of additional consultants to build an infrastructure in anticipation of our future growth and the allocation of our Chief Executive Officer’s salary to general and administrative expense. The remaining increase in general and administrative expenses is due to various costs, none of which are significant individually.


In aggregate, we incurred $595 of stock-based compensation during the three months ended June 30, 2017. Of this amount, $572 was from issuances of equity based awards pursuant to our Plans and $23 was from a warrant award which was issued outside the Plans. It has been our policy to allocate the majority of stock based compensation to general and administrative expense. During the three months ended June 30, 2016 and 2017, and inclusive of equity based awards issued outside the Plans, we recorded $36 and $580, respectively, of stock-based compensation in general and administrative expense.

We experienced an aggregate increase of $189 in audit and legal fees due to an overall increase in the operations conducted and the level of complexity and significant number of the transactions entered into during the six months ended June 30, 2017.

Beginning during the quarter ended December 31, 2016, we spent significant effort on expanding our investor base and on hiring additional consultants to assist building an infrastructure to support our anticipated growth. As a result, we experienced an increase of $161 in costs attributed to investor relations and other consulting fees.

Finally, during the three months ended June 30, 2016, our Chief Executive Officer’s salary was reflected in selling and marketing expenses. As discussed above, our current practice is to record the salary and benefits of our Chief Executive Officer to general and administrative expense.

Interest (expense) income, net

Interest expense, net was $407 for the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to income of $55 for the three months ended June 30, 2016. The increase in interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2017 is primarily related to debt discount, in the aggregate amount of $392, resulting from the issuance of warrants in conjunction with the sale of debt instruments $870. During the three months ended June 30, 2017, as a result of these issuances, non-cash interest expense of $392 was recorded from the amortization of debt discount and debt financing costs. The remaining increase in interest expense, net, was due to an increase in the amount of the Company’s total borrowings. At June 30 2017, the outstanding balance of the Company’s convertible notes payable and notes payable was $2,565. Conversely, at June 30, 2016, the Company did not have any outstanding convertible notes payable or notes payable. Interest expense was partially offset by interest income and the accretion of original issue discount on the AVLP 12% Secured Convertible Note of $66.

Operating Loss

         The Company recorded an operating loss of $1,444 for the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to operating income of $11 for the three months ended June 30, 2016. The increase in operating loss is mostly attributable from the increase of general and administrative expenses.

Net Loss

          The Company recorded a net loss of $1,851 for the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to a net income of $66 for the three months ended June 30, 2016 as a result of the aforementioned changes.


SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

Our revenues decreased by $327 or 8.7% to $3,450 for the six months ended June 30, 2017, from $3,777 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The decrease in revenue was primarily the result of a decrease in shipments from commercial and military products manufactured by the Company’s European operation in Gresham, U.K. (“DP Limited”). The decrease attributed to DP Limited was partially offset by our acquisition of a majority interest in Microphase. On June 2, 2017, we acquired 56.4% of the outstanding equity interests of Microphase. As such, our consolidated revenues include those revenues generated by Microphase during the period from June 3, 2017 to June 30, 2017, in the amount of $223.

Revenues from our U.S. operations increased by 7.8% to $2,329 for the six months ended June 30, 2017, from $2,160 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. As previously noted, our consolidated revenues include $223 in revenues generated by Microphase. If we had not closed on our acquisition of Microphase, then revenues from our U.S. operations would have been $2,106, a decrease of 2.5%. The slight decrease in revenues from our U.S. operations is attributed to a decrease in sales of our legacy products.

Revenues from our European operations of DP Limited decreased by 30.7% to $1,121 for the six months ended June 30, 2017, from $1,617 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease of military and commercial products sales and the impact of a weakening of the British Pound and Euro against the USD. The decline in commercial product sales was mainly attributed to standard commodity products. The decline in military product sales was attributed to technical changes in design of one of our development contracts.

Gross Margins

Gross margins increased to 41.7% for the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to 36.4% for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase in gross margins was mainly attributable to the increase in sales of our commercial products sold in our U.S. operations, which have greater gross margins, combined with the decrease in sales from our European operations.

Engineering and Product Development

Engineering and product development expenses increased by $128 to $492 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 from $364 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase is partly attributed to our acquisition of Microphase, which reported $55 in engineering and product development expenses. The remaining increase is attributed to an $81 increase in personnel costs directly attributed to engineering and product development at Digital Power’s U.S. based operations. During the fourth quarter of 2016, as part of its growth plan, Digital Power hired a new Head of Engineering and Technology, a highly-compensated position.

Selling and Marketing

Selling and marketing expenses were $622 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to $488 for the six months ended June 30, 2016, an increase of $134. Our acquisition of Microphase accounted for $9 of the increase in selling and marketing expenses. The remaining increase is attributed to an increase in personnel costs directly attributed to sales and marketing personnel at Digital Power’s U.S. based operations. Beginning in December 2016 and throughout the quarter ended March 31, 2017, we augmented our sales and marketing team with the addition of a Vice President of Business Development and two regional sales managers. During the six months ended June 30, 2016, the services of our current Chief Executive Officer were reported within selling and marketing expenses due to the significant amount of time in which he devoted to the sales process. The increase in the headcount of our sales and marketing team allowed our CEO to spend the majority of his time on general corporate matters related to our restructuring and expansion. As such, during the six months ended June 30, 2017, the salary of our Chief Executive officer, which is $300 per year, was reported within general and administrative expenses. The increase in selling and marketing expenses is attributed to the increase in salaries and benefits and travel related costs for the three new sales and marketing positions and partially offset by the allocation of our Chief Executive Officer’s salary to general and administrative expense.


General and Administrative

General and administrative expenses were $2,555 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to $711 for the six months ended June 30, 2016, an increase of $1,844. Our acquisition of Microphase accounted for $167 of the increase in general and administrative expenses. The adjusted increase of $1,677 from the comparative prior period was mainly due to higher stock based compensation expenses, an increase in legal and audit costs, an increase in investor relationship costs and hiring of additional consultants to build an infrastructure in anticipation of our future growth and the allocation of our Chief Executive Officer’s salary to general and administrative expense. The remaining increase in general and administrative expenses is due to various costs, none of which are significant individually.

In aggregate, we incurred $752 of stock-based compensation during the six months ended June 30, 2017. Of this amount, $696 was from issuances of equity based awards pursuant to our Plans and $56 was from restricted stock and warrant awards which were issued outside the Plans. It has been our policy to allocate the majority of stock based compensation to general and administrative expense. During the three months ended June 30, 2016 and 2017, and inclusive of equity based awards issued outside the Plans, we recorded $73 and $651, respectively, of stock-based compensation in general and administrative expense.

We experienced an aggregate increase of $318 in audit and legal fees due to an overall increase in the operations conducted and the level of complexity and significant number of the transactions entered into during the six months ended June 30, 2017.

Beginning during the quarter ended December 31, 2016, we spent significant effort on expanding our investor base and on hiring additional consultants to assist building an infrastructure to support our anticipated growth. As a result, we experienced an increase of $376 in costs attributed to investor relations and other consulting fees.

Finally, during the six months ended June 30, 2016, our Chief Executive Officer’s salary was reflected in selling and marketing expenses. As discussed above, our current practice is to record the salary and benefits of our Chief Executive Officer to general and administrative expense.

Interest (expense) income, net

Interest expense, net was $614 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to income of $62 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase in interest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2017 is primarily related to debt discount, in the aggregate amount of $392, resulting from the issuance of warrants in conjunction with the sale of debt instruments of $3,254. During the six months ended June 30, 2017, as a result of these issuances, non-cash interest expense of $592 was recorded from the amortization of debt discount and debt financing costs. The remaining increase in interest expense, net, was due to an increase in the amount of the Company’s total borrowings. Interest expense was partially offset by interest income and the accretion of original issue discount on the AVLP 12% Secured Convertible Note of $101.

Operating Loss

The Company recorded an operating loss of $2,231 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to an operating loss of $189 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase in operating loss is mostly attributable from the increase of general and administrative expenses.

Net Loss

The Company recorded a net loss of $2,845 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to a net loss of $127 for the six months ended June 30, 2016 as a result of the aforementioned changes.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

On June 30, 2017, we had cash and cash equivalents of $443. This compares with cash and cash equivalents of $996 at December 31, 2016. The decrease in cash and cash equivalents was primarily due to  cash used in operating and investing activities in excess of funds provided by financing activities.

Net cash used in operating activities totaled $1,173 for the six months ended June 30, 2017, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $134 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. During the six months ended June 30, 2017, the decrease in net cash provided by operating activities compared to the six months ended June 30, 2016 was mainly due to the 2017 six months loss of $2,845. The net loss was partially offset by non-cash charges, the amortization of debt discount of $592 and stock-based compensation of $752, and decreases in our accounts receivable of $651 and inventories of $216.

Net cash used in investing activities was $2,132 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to $74 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase of the net usage of cash from investing activities was primarily related to the investment in AVLP.

Net cash provided by financing activities was $2,711 and nil for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The financing activities relatedagent, relating to the sale of 500,000 shares of common stock for net proceeds of $227, gross proceeds from the Company’s debt financings of $2,954 and payments onCommon Stock offered by a revolving credit facility of $268.

Historically, the Company has financed its operations principally through issuances of convertible debt, promissory notes and equity securities. During 2017, as reflected below, the Company continues to successfully obtain additional equity and debt financing and in restructuring existing debt. The following financings transactions were consummated during 2017:

In February 2017, the Company issued demand promissory notes and warrants to purchase 333,333 shares of common stock at $ 0.70 per share for aggregate proceeds of $400. Further in February 2017, the holders of $400 in demand promissory notes agreed to extinguish their $400 of debt by cancelling their notes to purchase 666,667 shares of common stock of the Company at $0.60 per share.

On March 9, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with Philou Ventures LLC (“Philou”), a related party, pursuant to which Philou was granted the right to invest up to $5,000 in the Company through the purchase of Series B Preferred Stock over a term of 36 months.   On March 24, 2017, Philou purchased 25,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement in consideration of cancellation of Company debt of $250 due to MCKEA, an affiliate of Philou. On May 5, 2017, Philou purchased an additional 50,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement for $500.

On March 15, 2017, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with one investor for the sale of 500,000 shares of common stock at $0.60 per share for the aggregate purchase price of $300.

On March 20, 2017, the Company issued $250 in demand promissory note to one of the Company's shareholders.

On March 28, 2017, the Company issued $270 in demand promissory notes to several investors. The Company received gross proceeds of $220 on March 31, 2017 and the remaining balance of $50 was received on April 3, 2017. On April 5, 2017, the Company canceled these promissory notes by issuing to the holders 360,000 shares of common stock at $0.75 per share and warrants to purchase 180,000 shares of common stock at $0.90 per share.


On April 17, 2017, the Company entered into two 7% convertible notes (the “7% Convertible Notes”) in the aggregate principal amount of $250. The 7% Convertible Notes accrue interest at 7% simple interest on the principal amount and were due on June 2, 2017. The 7% Convertible Notes were not repaid on the maturity date and as such were in default at June 30, 2017. During July 2017, these two 7% Convertible Notes were repaid (See Note 16).

On April 26, 2017, the Company entered into a 7% convertible note in the aggregate principal amount of $104. On June 28, 2017, the noteholder converted the outstanding balance into 189,091 shares of Digital Power’s common stock.

Between May 5, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company received additional short-term loans of $140 from four accredited investors of which $75 was from the Company’s corporate counsel, a related party. As additional consideration, the investors received five-year warrants to purchase 224,371 shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $0.77 per share.During June 2017, the holders of $55 of these short-term loans agreed to cancel their notes for the purchase of 100,001 shares of the Digital Power’s common stock at a price of $0.55 per share. An additional $52 in short-term loans from the related party was converted into one of the Series C Units.

Between May 24, 2017 and June 19, 2017, Digital Power entered into subscription agreements (the “Series C Subscription Agreement”) with approximately twenty accredited investors (the “Series C Investors”) in connection with the sale of twenty-one Units at a purchase price of $52 per Unit raising in the aggregate $1,092 with each Unit consisting of Series C Preferred Stock and Warrants.

Between July 1, 2017 and August 17, 2017, the Company received net cash proceeds of $1,505 from issuances of the Company’s debt and equity securities. Further, $268 in convertible notes were exchanged for shares of the Company’s common stock.

We expect to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future and will be required to raise additional capital to continue to support our working capital requirements. We believe that the MLSE purchase order contract of $50 million will contribute to generate meaningful revenue and corresponding cash in 2017. In addition, we have been successful over the last 12 months in raising capital to support our working capital requirements. We anticipate that we will continue to raise capital through public and private equity offerings, debt financings, or other means. If we are unable to secure additional capital, we may be required to curtail our current operations and take additional measures to reduce costs expenses, including reducing our workforce, eliminating outside consultants, ceasing or reducing our due diligence of potential future acquisitions, including the associated legal fees, in order to conserve cash in order to sustain operations and meet our obligations.

Based on the above, these matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

 CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

In our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, we identified the critical accounting policies which affect our more significant estimates and assumptions used in preparing our consolidated financial statements.  The basis for developing the estimates and assumptions within our critical accounting policies is based on historical information and known current trends and factors.  The estimates and assumptions are evaluated on an ongoing basis and actual results have been within our expectations.  We have not changed these policies from those previously disclosed in our Annual Report.

ITEM 3.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Not applicable for a smaller reporting company.


ITEM 4.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We have established disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, with the assistance of other members of the Company's management, have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation 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 the end of the period covered by this quarterly report.  Based upon such evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

During the period covered by this quarterly report, there were no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting or in other factors 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

None

ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS

The risks described in Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors," in our 2016 Form 10-K, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations,prospectus supplement and the trading price of our common stock could decline. These risk factors do not identify all risks that we face - our operations could also be affected by factors that are not presently known to us or that we currently consider to be immaterial to our operations. Due to risks and uncertainties, known and unknown, our past financial results may not be a reliable indicator of future performance and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods. The Risk Factors section of our 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K remains current in all material respects.

ITEM 2.

UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None.

ITEM 3.

DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None.

ITEM 4.

MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

None

ITEM 5.

OTHER INFORMATION

None


ITEM 6.           EXHIBITS

Exhibit

Number

Description

2.1

Share Exchange Agreement by and among Digital Power Corporation, Microphase Corporation, Microphase Holding Company, RCKJ Trust, Ergul Family Limited Partnership, To Hong Yam and Eagle Advisers, LLC, dated as of April 28, 2017 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Company’s current report filed on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 3, 2017)

3.1

Amended and Restated Articles  of  Incorporation  of  Digital  Power Corporation  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form SB-2 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 16, 1996)

3.2

Certificate of Amendment to Articles  of  Incorporation  of  Digital  Power Corporation  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form SB-2 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 16, 1996)

3.3

Certificate of Amendment to Articles  of  Incorporation  of  Digital  Power Corporation  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s current report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 9, 2013)

3.4

Bylaws of Digital Power Corporation (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form SB-2 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 16, 1996)

3.5

Form of Series C Certificate of Determination (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s current report filed on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 3, 2017)

3.6

Form of Series D Certificate of Determination (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s current report filed on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 3, 2017)

3.7

Form of Series E Certificate of Determination (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company’s current report filed on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 3, 2017)

10.1

Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement date March 9, 2017 between Digital Power Corporation, and Philou Ventures, LLC. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s current report filed on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 9, 2017)

31.1*

Certification of Chief Executive and Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)

32.1**

Certification of Chief Executive and Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code

101.INS***

XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.DEF***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

101.LAB***    

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE***

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

*       Filed herewith.

**     Furnished herewith.

***  In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the information in these exhibits shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,accompanying prospectus, as amended or otherwise subject to liability under that section, and shall not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, except as expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.


SIGNATURES

Pursuantamendments 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.

Dated:  August 21, 2017

Digital Power Corporation

By:

/s/ Amos Kohn

Amos Kohn

President, Chief Executive and

Financial Officer and

Principal Accounting Officer


EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Amos Kohn, certify that:

     1.  I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Digital Power Corporation;

     2.  Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

     3.  Based on my knowledge, the financial statements,sales agreement dated February 16, 2021 and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

     4.  The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

                  (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

                  (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

                  (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

                  (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

     5.  The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

                  (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

                  (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Dated:  August 21, 2017

/s/ Amos Kohn

Amos Kohn

President, Chief Executive and Chief

Financial Officer

(Principal Executive and Accounting Officer)


EXHIBIT 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

March 5, 2021. In connection with the quarterly report of Digital Power Corporation (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2017, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), the undersigned certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

         (1) the Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

         (2) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

Dated: August 21, 2017

/s/ Amos Kohn

Amos Kohn

President, Chief Executive and Chief

Financial Officer

(Principal Executive and Accounting Officer)


Appendix C

AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER OF

DPW HOLDINGS INC.,

A DELAWARE CORPORATION,

AND

DIGITAL POWER CORPORATION,

A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION

This AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of [], 2017 (the “Merger Agreement”), is made by and between DPW Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“DIGITAL Delaware”), and Digital Power Corporation, a California corporation (“DIGITAL California”). DIGITAL Delaware and DIGITAL California are sometimes referred to herein as the “Constituent Corporations.” DIGITAL Delaware is a wholly-owned subsidiary of DIGITAL California.

RECITALS

WHEREAS, DIGITAL California is a corporation duly incorporated and existing under the laws of the State of California and has a total authorized capital stock of 32,000,000 shares, of which 30,000,000 are common stock, no par value (the “DIGITAL California Common Stock.”), and 2,000,000 are preferred stock, no par value (the “DIGITAL California Preferred Stock”). Of the 2,000,000 preferred stock, (i) 500,000 shares are designated as Series A Preferred Stock, no par value, (ii) 500,000 shares are designated as Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, no par value (the “Series B Stock”), (iii) 460,000 shares are designated as Series C Preferred Stock, no par value (the “Series C Stock”), (iv) 378,776 shares are designated as Series D Preferred Stock, no par value (the “Series D Stock”), (v) 10,000 shares are designated as Series E Preferred Stock, no par value (the “Series E Stock”), (vi) and 151,224 shares of DIGITAL California Preferred Stock are undesignated as to series, rights, preferences, privileges or restrictions, all of which shares of DIGITAL California Preferred Stock are issued and outstanding except for the Series A Preferred Stock and the undesignated Preferred Stock, none of which is issued or outstanding. As of the date hereof, and before giving effect to the transactions contemplated hereby, 100 shares of DIGITAL Delaware Common Stock are issued and outstanding, all of which (i) consist of Class A Common Stock (as hereinafter defined), and (ii) are held by DIGITAL California. DIGITAL Delaware was formed solely for the purposes contemplated by the Merger Agreement, and prior to becoming the Surviving Corporation (as defined below) has had no operations, assets or liabilities.

WHEREAS, DIGITAL Delaware is a corporation duly incorporated and existing under the laws of the State of Delaware and has a total authorized capital stock of 250,000,000 shares, consisting of (i)  225,000,000 shares of common stock having a par value $0.001 per share (“DIGITAL Delaware CommonStock”), of which (A) 200,000,000 shares consist of Class A Common Stock and are designated as Voting Common Stock (“Class ACommon Stock”), and (B) 25,000,000 shares consist of Class B Common Stock and are designated as Super-Voting Common Stock (“Class B CommonStock”), and (ii) 25,000,000 shares of “blank check” preferred stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “DIGITAL Delaware Preferred Stock”). The rights, preferences, powers, privileges, and the restrictions, qualifications and limitations of the Class A Voting Common Stock are identical with those of the Class B Common Stock other than in respect of voting and conversion rights as set forth in DIGITAL Delaware’s Certificate of Incorporation, and for all purposes under its Certificate of Incorporation, the Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock shall together constitute a single class of shares of the capital stock of the Corporation.

WHEREAS, The Board of Directors of DIGITAL California has determined that, for the purpose of effecting the reincorporation of DIGITAL California in the State of Delaware, it is advisable and in the best interests of DIGITAL California and its shareholders that DIGITAL California merge with and into DIGITAL Delaware upon the terms and conditions herein provided.

WHEREAS, the respective Boards of Directors of the Constituent Corporations, the shareholders of DIGITAL California and the stockholder of DIGITAL Delaware have approved this Merger Agreement and have directed that this Merger Agreement be executed by the undersigned officers.


NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements and covenants set forth herein, DIGITAL Delaware and DIGITAL California hereby agree, intending to be legally bound hereby, subject to the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth, as follows:

ARTICLE I

THE MERGER

1.Merger. In accordance with the provisions of this Merger Agreement, the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”) and the California Corporations Code, DIGITAL California shall be merged with and into DIGITAL Delaware (the “Merger”), the separate existence of DIGITAL California shall cease and DIGITAL Delaware shall be, and is herein sometimes referred to as, the “Surviving Corporation.”

2.Filing and Effectiveness. The Merger shall become effective in accordance with Section 1108 of the California Corporations Code and Section 252 of the DGCL. The date and time when the Merger shall become effective, as aforesaid, is herein called the “Effective Date.”

3.Effect of the Merger. Upon the Effective Date, the separate existence of DIGITAL California shall cease, and DIGITAL Delaware, as the Surviving Corporation, shall: (i) continue to possess all of its assets, rights, powers and property as constituted immediately prior to the Effective Date, (ii) be subject to all actions previously taken by its and DIGITAL California’s Boards of Directors, (iii) succeed, without other transfer, to all of the assets, rights, powers and property of DIGITAL California in the manner as more fully set forth in Section 259 of the DGCL, (iv) continue to be subject to all of its debts, liabilities and obligations as constituted immediately prior to the Effective Date, and (v) succeed, without other transfer, to all of the debts, liabilities and obligations of DIGITAL California in the same manner as if DIGITAL Delaware had itself incurred them, all as more fully provided under the applicable provisions of the DGCL and the California Corporations Code.

ARTICLE II

CHARTER DOCUMENTS, DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

1.Certificate of Incorporation. The Certificate of Incorporation of DIGITAL Delaware as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Date (the “Certificate of Incorporation”) shall continue in full force and effect as the Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation until duly amended in accordance with the provisions thereof and applicable law.

2.Bylaws. The Bylaws of DIGITAL Delaware as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Date shall continue in full force and effect as the Bylaws of the Surviving Corporation until duly amended in accordance with the provisions thereof and applicable law.

3.Directors and Officers. The directors and officers of DIGITAL California immediately prior to the Effective Date shall be the directors and officers of the Surviving Corporation until their successors shall have been duly elected and qualified or until as otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation or the Bylaws of the Surviving Corporation.

ARTICLE III

MANNER OF CONVERSION OF SECURITIES

1.DIGITAL California Common Stock. Upon the Effective Date, each share of DIGITAL California Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior thereto shall, by virtue of the Merger and without any action by the Constituent Corporations, the holder of such shares or any other person, be converted into and exchanged for one (1) legally issued, fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock.

2.DIGITAL Delaware Common Stock. Upon the Effective Date, each share of DIGITAL Delaware Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior thereto shall, by virtue of the Merger and without any action by DIGITAL Delaware, or the holder of such shares or any other person, be cancelled and returned to the status of authorized and unissued shares of DIGITAL Delaware Common Stock, without any consideration being delivered in respect thereof.


3.Series B Preferred Stock. Each outstanding share of Series B Preferred Stock, no par value per share, of DIGITAL California shall be converted into, in accordance with the terms and conditions hereof, one (1) share of Series B Preferred Stock of the Surviving Corporation (the “New Series B Preferred Stock”), which New Series B Preferred Stock shall be identical in all respects to the Series B Preferred Stock, with the exception of the par value of such shares.

4.Series C Preferred Stock. Each outstanding share of Series C Preferred Stock, no par value per share, of DIGITAL California shall be converted into, in accordance with the terms and conditions hereof, one (1) share of Series C Preferred Stock of the Surviving Corporation (the “New Series C Preferred Stock”), which New Series C Preferred Stock shall be identical in all respects to the Series C Preferred Stock, with the exception of the par value of such shares.

5.Series D Preferred Stock. Each outstanding share of Series D Preferred Stock, no par value per share, of DIGITAL California shall be converted into, in accordance with the terms and conditions hereof, one (1) share of Series D Preferred Stock of the Surviving Corporation (the “New Series D Preferred Stock”), which New Series D Preferred Stock shall be identical in all respects to the Series D Preferred Stock, with the exception of the par value of such shares and that there shall be 500,000 such shares designated as New Series C Preferred Stock.

6.Series E Preferred Stock. Each outstanding share of Series E Preferred Stock, no par value per share, of DIGITAL California shall be converted into, in accordance with the terms and conditions hereof, one (1) share of Series E Preferred Stock of the Surviving Corporation (the “New Series E Preferred Stock”), which New Series E Preferred Stock shall be identical in all respects to the Series E Preferred Stock, with the exception of the par value of such shares.

7.     Exchange of Certificates. After the Effective Date, each holder of an outstanding certificate representing shares of DIGITAL California Common Stock may, at such shareholder’s option, surrender the same for cancellation to an exchange agent designated by the Surviving Corporation (the “Exchange Agent”), and each such holder shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor a certificate or certificates representing the number of shares of DIGITAL Delaware Common Stock into which the shares formerly represented by the surrendered certificate were converted as herein provided. Until so surrendered, each certificate representing shares of DIGITAL California Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Date shall be deemed for all purposes, from and after the Effective Date, to represent the number of shares of DIGITAL Delaware Common Stock into which such shares of DIGITAL California Common Stock were converted in the Merger.

The registered owner on the books and records of the Surviving Corporation or the Exchange Agent of any shares of stock represented by such certificate shall, until such certificate shall have been surrendered for transfer or conversion or otherwise accounted for to the Surviving Corporation or the Exchange Agent, have and be entitled to exercise any voting and other rights with respect to and to receive dividends and other distributions upon the shares of DIGITAL Delaware Common Stock represented by such certificate as provided above.

Each certificate representing shares of DIGITAL Delaware Common Stock so issued in the Merger shall bear the same legends, if any, with respect to the restrictions on transferability as the certificate of DIGITAL California Common Stock so converted and given in exchange therefor, unless otherwise determined by the Board of Directors of the Surviving Corporation in compliance with applicable laws.

8.     DIGITAL California Equity Incentive Plans; Option; Warrants; Etc.

(a)     Options, Warrants or other Derivative Securities. At the Effective Time, each outstanding option or warrant to purchase a share of DIGITAL California Common Stock (collectively, “Purchase Rights”), whether issued under an equity incentive plan adopted by DIGITAL California (a “Plan”) or otherwise, whether vested or unvested, will continue in effect and shall be, until thereafter altered, amended or terminated as provided therein and in accordance with applicable law or the terms of the applicable Plan, if any, converted as a result of the Merger into an option or warrant to purchase Class A Common Stock of the Surviving Corporation. Each option and warrant issued or to be issued by the Surviving Corporation shall continue to have, and be subject to, the same terms and conditions set forth in the applicable plan, grant or issuance agreement, or terms immediately prior to the Effective Time. Additionally, each Plan including without limitation, the 2012 Stock Option Plan and the 2016 Stock Incentive Plan, shall as a result of the Merger become Plans of the Surviving Corporation and the Surviving Corporation hereby agrees that the terms, provisions and conditions of such Plans shall continue in full force and effect following the Effective Time, as if such Plans had been adopted by the directors and stockholders of the Surviving Corporation, subject to the right of the Surviving Corporation to amend, terminate or alter such Plans after the Effective Time in accordance with the terms of applicable law and such Plans.


(b)Reservation of Shares. A number of shares of Class A Common Stock shall be reserved for issuance under the Plans equal to the number of shares of DIGITAL California Common Stock so reserved immediately prior to the Effective Date.

ARTICLE IV

GENERAL

1.Conditions to DIGITAL California’s Obligations. The obligations of DIGITAL California under this Merger Agreement shall be conditioned upon the occurrence of the following events:

(a)     The principal terms of this Merger Agreement shall have been duly approved by the shareholders of DIGITAL California;

(b)     Any consents, approvals or authorizations that DIGITAL California deems necessary or appropriate to be obtained in connection with the consummation of the Merger shall have been obtained, including, but not limited to, approvals with respect to federal and state securities laws; and

(c)     The Class A Common Stock to be issued and reserved for issuance in connection with the Merger shall have been approved for listing on the NYSE American LLC.

2.Covenants of DIGITAL Delaware. DIGITAL Delaware covenants and agrees that it will, on or before the Effective Date:

(a)     Qualify to do business as a foreign corporation in the State of California and, in connection therewith, appoint an agent for service of process as required under the provisions of Section 2105 of the California Corporations Code;

(b)     File this Merger Agreement with the Secretary of State of the State of California; and

(c)     Take such other actions as may be required by the California Corporations Code.

3.FIRPTA Notification. If any shareholder believes that it, or its direct or indirect beneficial owners, could potentially be subject to tax in connection with the Merger under Section 897 of the Code by reason of (i) being a nonresident alien individual or foreign corporation within the meaning of Section 897(a)(1) of the Code, and (ii) not qualifying for the exemption in Section 897(c)(3) of the Code, such shareholder may provide the Surviving Corporation with a statement on the date hereof in accordance with Notice 89-57, 1989-1 C.B. 698, and Section 1.1445-2(d)(2)(iii) of the Treasury Regulations, which statement the Surviving Corporation shall file with the Internal Revenue Service within 20 days in accordance with Section 1.1445-2(d)(2)(i)(B) of the Treasury Regulations.

4.Reorganization for Tax Purposes. The Merger is intended to be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a “reorganization” described in Section 368(a)(1)(F) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and by executing this agreement the parties intend to adopt a “plan of reorganization” within the meaning of Sections 1.368-2(g) and 1.368-3(a) of the Treasury Regulations.


5.Further Assurances. From time to time, as and when required by DIGITAL Delaware or by its successors or assigns, there shall be executed and delivered on behalf of DIGITAL California such deeds and other instruments, and there shall be taken or caused to be taken by DIGITAL Delaware and DIGITAL California such further and other actions, as shall be appropriate or necessary in order to vest or perfect in or conform of record or otherwise by DIGITAL Delaware the title to and possession of all the property, interests, assets, rights, privileges, immunities, powers, franchises and authority of DIGITAL California and otherwise to carry out the purposes of this Merger Agreement, and the officers and directors of DIGITAL Delaware are fully authorized in the name and on behalf of DIGITAL California or otherwise to take any and all such action and to execute and deliver any and all such deeds and other instruments.

6.Abandonment. At any time before the Effective Date, this Merger Agreement may be terminated and the Merger may be abandoned for any reason whatsoever by the Board of Directors of either or both of the Constituent Corporations, notwithstanding the approval of this Merger Agreement by the shareholders of DIGITAL California or by the sole stockholder of DIGITAL Delaware, or by both. In the event of the termination of this Merger Agreement, this Merger Agreement shall become void and of no effect and there shall be no obligations on either Constituent Corporation or their respective Board of Directors, shareholders or stockholders with respect thereto.

7.Amendment. The Boards of Directors of the Constituent Corporations may amend this Merger Agreement at any time prior to the filing of this Merger Agreement with the Secretaries of State of the States of California and Delaware, provided that an amendment made subsequent to the adoption of this Merger Agreement by the stockholders or shareholders of either Constituent Corporation shall not, unless approved by such stockholders or shareholders as required by law:

(a)     Alter or change the amount or kind of shares, securities, cash, property and/or rights to be received in exchange for or on conversion of all or any of the shares of any class or series thereof of such Constituent Corporation;

(b)     Alter or change any term of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation to be effected by the Merger; or

(c)     Alter or change any of the terms and conditions of this Merger Agreement if such alteration or change would adversely affect the holders of any class or series of capital stock of any Constituent Corporation.

8.Registered Office. The registered office of the Surviving Corporation in the State of Delaware is Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, City of Wilmington, County of New Castle, State of Delaware, 19801, and The Corporation Trust Company is the registered agent of the Surviving Corporation at such address.

9.Governing Law. This Merger Agreement shall in all respects be construed, interpreted and enforced in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of Delaware and, so far as applicable, the merger provisions of the California Corporations Code.

10.Counterparts. In order to facilitate the filing and recording of this Merger2021 Sales Agreement, the sameCompany may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an originaloffer and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

[BALANCE OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Merger Agreement, having first been approved by resolutions of the Boards of Directors of DIGITAL Delaware, a Delaware corporation, and DIGITAL California, a California corporation, is hereby executed on behalf of each of such two corporations and attested to by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized.

DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

a Delaware corporation

By:                                                                                     

Amos Kohn

President and Chief Executive Officer

By:                                                                                      

[Title]

DIGITALPOWER CORPORATION

a California corporation

By:                                                                                      

Amos Kohn

President and Chief Executive Officer

By:                                                                                      

[Title]


Appendix D

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

* * * *

ARTICLE I

The name of this corporation is DPW Holdings, Inc. (hereinafter, the “Corporation”).

ARTICLE II

The address of the Corporation’s registered office in the State of Delaware is Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle. The name of its registered agent at such address is The Corporation Trust Company.

ARTICLE III

The nature of the business or purposes to be conducted or promoted by the Corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.

ARTICLE IV

Section 1.

Authorized Shares.

This Corporation is authorized to issue two hundred million (200,000,000) shares of Class A Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Class ACommon Stock”), twenty-five million (25,000,000) shares of Class B Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Class B Common Stock”, and together with the Class A Common Stock, the “Common Stock”), and twenty-five million (25,000,000) shares of Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share. The number of authorized shares of any class or classes of stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstandingsell shares of Common Stock having an aggregate offering price of the Corporation, voting together as a single class.

Section 2.

Common Stock.

A statement of the designations of each class of Common Stock and the powers, preferences and rights and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof is as follows:

(a)Voting Rights.

(i)     Except as otherwise provided herein or by applicable law, the holders of shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock shall at all times vote together as one class on all matters (including the election of directors) submittedup to a vote or for the consent of the stockholders of the Corporation.

(ii)     Each holder of shares of Class A Common Stock shall be entitled to one (1) vote for each share of Class A Common Stock held as of the applicable date on any matter that is submitted to a vote or for the consent of the stockholders of the Corporation.


(iii)     Each holder of shares of Class B Common Stock shall be entitled to ten (10) votes for each share of Class B Common Stock held as of the applicable date on any matter that is submitted to a vote or for the consent of the stockholders of the Corporation.

(b)Dividends. Subject to the preferences applicable to any series of Preferred Stock, if any, outstanding at any time, the holders of Class A Common Stock and the holders of Class B Common Stock shall be entitled to share equally, on a per share basis, in such dividends and other distributions of cash, property or shares of stock of the Corporation as may be declared by the Board of Directors$200,000,000 from time to time with respect tothrough the Common Stock outsales agent. As of assets or fundsMarch 5, 2021, the Company had sold an aggregate of the Corporation legally available therefor; provided, however, that in the event that such dividend is paid in the form of shares of Common Stock or rights to acquire Common Stock, the holders of Class A Common Stock shall receive Class A Common Stock or rights to acquire Class A Common Stock, as the case may be, and the holders of Class B Common Stock shall receive Class B Common Stock or rights to acquire Class B Common Stock, as the case may be.

(c)Liquidation. Subject to the preferences applicable to any series of Preferred Stock, if any outstanding at any time, in the event of the voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution, distribution of assets or winding up of the Corporation, the holders of Class A Common Stock and the holders of Class B Common Stock shall be entitled to share equally, on a per share basis, all assets of the Corporation of whatever kind available for distribution to the holders of Common Stock.

(d)Subdivision or Combinations. If the Corporation in any manner subdivides or combines the outstanding shares of one class of Common Stock, the outstanding shares of the other class of Common Stock will be subdivided or combined in the same manner.

(e)     Equal Status. Except as expressly provided in this Article IV, Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock shall have the same rights and privileges and rank equally, share ratably and be identical in all respects as to all matters. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, (i) in the event of a merger, consolidation or other business combination requiring the approval of the holders of the Corporation’s capital stock entitled to vote thereon (whether or not the Corporation is the surviving entity), the holders of the Class A Common Stock shall have the right to receive, or the right to elect to receive, the same form of consideration, if any, as the holders of the Class B Common Stock and the holders of the Class A Common Stock shall have the right to receive, or the right to elect to receive, at least the same amount of consideration, if any, on a per share basis as the holders of the Class B Common Stock, and (ii) in the event of (x) any tender or exchange offer to acquire any shares of Common Stock by any third party pursuant to an agreement to which the Corporation is a party or (y) any tender or exchange offer by the Corporation to acquire any21,561,900 shares of Common Stock pursuant to the termssales agreement for gross proceeds of $124,983,305.

Issuance of common stock for conversion of debt

During January 2021, principal and accrued interest of $200,000 and $15,948, respectively, on the Company’s debt securities was satisfied through the issuance of 183,214 shares of Common Stock. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of $551,718 as a result of this issuance.

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2020

Acquisition of Michigan Cloud Data Center

On January 29, 2021, Alliance Cloud Services, LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ault Alliance, closed on the acquisition of a 617,000 square foot energy-efficient facility located on a 34.5 acre site in southern Michigan for a purchase price of $3,991,497. The purchase price was paid by the Company using its own working capital. The facility is subject to a final corrective measures plan with the Environment Protection Agency. The seller performed remedial activities at the Michigan facility relating to historical soil and groundwater contamination and the Company is responsible for ongoing monitoring and final remediation plans. The Company’s estimated cost of the applicable tender or exchange offer,environmental remediation obligation is approximately $300,000 and reflects its best estimate of probable future costs for remediation based on the holderscurrent assessment data and regulatory obligations. Future costs will depend on many factors, including the extent of work necessary to implement monitoring and final remediation plans and the Company’s time frame for remediation. The Company may incur actual costs in the future that are materially different than this estimate and such costs could have a material impact on results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows during the period in which they are recorded.

Investment in Alzamend Neuro, Inc.

On March 12, 2021, the Company announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, DP Lending, entered into a securities purchase agreement with Alzamend, a related party, to invest $10,000,000 in Alzamend common stock and warrants, subject to the achievement of certain milestones. The Company agreed to fund $4,000,000 upon execution of the Class A Common Stock shall havesecurities purchase agreement, consisting of approximately $3,200,000 in cash and the rightconversion of short term advances and a convertible promissory note in the aggregate amount of $800,000, and to receive,fund the balance upon Alzamend achieving certain milestones related to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of Alzamend’s Investigational New Drug application and Phase 1a human clinical trials for Alzamend’s lithium based ionic cocrystal therapy, known as AL001. Under the securities purchase agreement, Alzamend has agreed to sell up to 6,666,667 shares of its common stock to DP Lending for $10,000,000, or $1.50 per share, and issue to DP Lending warrants to acquire up to 3,333,334 shares of Alzamend common stock with an exercise price of $3.00 per share. The transaction was approved by the rightCompany’s independent directors after receiving a third-party valuation report of Alzamend.

Investment in Ault & Company, Inc.

On February 25, 2021, Ault & Company, a related party, sold and issued an 8% Secured Promissory Note in the principal amount of $2,500,000 to elect to receive, the same form of consideration as the holdersCompany. The principal amount of the Class B Common StockSecured Promissory Note, plus any accrued and the holdersunpaid interest at a rate of the Class A Common Stock shall have the right to receive, or the right to elect to receive, at least the same amount of consideration8% per annum, is due and payable on a per share basis as the holders of the Class B Common Stock.February 25, 2022.

 

(f)Conversion.Executive Chairman relocation benefit

 

     (i)     As used in this Section 2(f), the following terms shall have the following meanings:

(1)     “Founder” shall mean eitherOn February 23, 2021, as part of a relocation benefit for our Executive Chairman, Milton C. Ault, III, a natural living person, or Philou Ventures, LLC, and “Founders” shall mean both of them.

(2)     “Class B Stockholder” shall mean (a)related to the Founders, (b) any person who will become a registered holder of any shares of Class B Common Stock as, a result of a Transfer by eitherCompany moving its corporate headquarters from Newport Beach, CA to Las Vegas, NV, the Company agreed to purchase Mr. Ault’s California residence for $2,670,000. The transaction was structured such that upon the closing of the Founders, and (c) any person to whom or to which shares of Class B Common Stock will be issued during the Corporation’s existence.

(3)     “Permitted Entity” shall mean, with respect to any individual Class B Stockholder, any trust, account, plan, corporation, partnership, or limited liability company specified in Section 2(f)(iii)(2) established by or for such individual Class B Stockholder, so long as such entity meets the requirementssubsequent sale of the exception set forth in Section 2(f)(iii)(2) applicableresidence, the Company shall have not recognized a gain or a loss on the transaction. The Company and Mr. Ault agreed to such entity.


(4)     “Transfer” of a share of Class B Common Stock shall mean any sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance, hypothecation or other transfer or disposition of such share or any legal or beneficial interest in such share, whether or not for value and whether voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law. A “Transfer” shall also include, without limitation, a transfer of a share of Class B Common Stock to a broker or other nominee (regardless of whether or not there is a corresponding change in beneficial ownership), or the transfer of, or entering into a binding agreement with respect to, Voting Control over a share of Class B Common Stock by proxy or otherwise; provided, however, that the following shall not be considered a “Transfer” within the meaning of this Section 2(f)(i)(4):

(A)     the granting of a proxy to officers or directorsescrow $254,200 of the Corporation at the request of the Board of Directors of the Corporationpurchase price in connection with actions to be taken at an annual or special meeting of stockholders;

(B)     entering into a voting trust, agreement or arrangement (with or without granting a proxy) solely with stockholders who are Class B Stockholders, that (A) is disclosed either in a Schedule 13D filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission or in writing to the Secretary of the Corporation, (B) either has a term not exceeding one (1) year or is terminable by the Class B Stockholder at any time and (C) does not involve any payment of cash, securities, property or other consideration to the Class B Stockholder other than the mutual promise to vote shares in a designated manner; or

(C)     the pledge of shares of Class B Common Stock by a Class B Stockholder that creates a mere security interest in such shares pursuant to a bona fide loan or indebtedness transaction so long as the Class B Stockholder continues to exercise Voting Control over such pledged shares; provided, however, that a foreclosure on such shares of Class B Common Stock or other similar action by the pledgee shall constitute a “Transfer.”

(5)     “Voting Control” with respect to a share of Class B Common Stock shall mean the power (whether exclusive or shared) to vote or direct the voting of such share of Class B Common Stock by proxy, voting agreement or otherwise.

(ii)     Each share of Class B Common Stock shall be convertible into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock at the option of the holder thereof at any time upon written notice to the transfer agent of the Corporation.

(iii)     Each share of Class B Common Stock shall automatically, without any further action, convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock upon a Transfer of such share, other than a Transfer:

(1)     from a Founder, or such Founder’s Permitted Entities, to the other Founder, or such Founder’s Permitted Entities.

(2)     by a Class B Stockholder who is a natural person to any of the following Permitted Entities, and from any of the following Permitted Entities back to such Class B Stockholder and/or any other Permitted Entity established by or for such Class B Stockholder:

(A)     a trust for the benefit of such Class B Stockholder and for the benefit of no other person, provided such Transfer does not involve any payment of cash, securities, property or other consideration (other than an interest in such trust) to the Class B Stockholder and, provided, further, that in the event such Class B Stockholder is no longer the exclusive beneficiary of such trust, each share of Class B Common Stock then held by such trust shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock;


(B)     a trust for the benefit of persons other than the Class B Stockholder so long as the Class B Stockholder has sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such trust, provided such Transfer does not involve any payment of cash, securities, property or other consideration (other than an interest in such trust) to the Class B Stockholder, and, provided, further, that in the event the Class B Stockholder no longer has sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such trust, each share of Class B Common Stock then held by such trust shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock;

(C)     a trust under the terms of which such Class B Stockholder has retained a “qualified interest” within the meaning of §2702(b)(1) of the Code and/or a reversionary interest so long as the Class B Stockholder has sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such trust; provided, however, that in the event the Class B Stockholder no longer has sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such trust, each share of Class B Common Stock then held by such trust shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock;

(D)     an Individual Retirement Account, as defined in Section 408(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, or a pension, profit sharing, stock bonus or other type of plan or trust of which such Class B Stockholder is a participant or beneficiary and which satisfies the requirements for qualification under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code; provided that in each case such Class B Stockholder has sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held in such account, plan or trust, and provided, further, that in the event the Class B Stockholder no longer has sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such account, plan or trust, each share of Class B Common Stock then held by such trust shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock;

(E)     a corporation in which such Class B Stockholder directly, or indirectly through one or more Permitted Entities, owns shares with sufficient Voting Control in the corporation, or otherwise has legally enforceable rights, such that the Class B Stockholder retains sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such corporation; provided that in the event the Class B Stockholder no longer owns sufficient shares or has sufficient legally enforceable rights to enable the Class B Stockholder to retain sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such corporation, each share of Class B Common Stock then held by such corporation shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock;

(F)     a partnership in which such Class B Stockholder directly, or indirectly through one or more Permitted Entities, owns partnership interests with sufficient Voting Control in the partnership, or otherwise has legally enforceable rights, such that the Class B Stockholder retains sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such partnership; provided that in the event the Class B Stockholder no longer owns sufficient partnership interests or has sufficient legally enforceable rights to enable the Class B Stockholder to retain sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such partnership, each share of Class B Common Stock then held by such partnership shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock; or

(G)     a limited liability company in which such Class B Stockholder directly, or indirectly through one or more Permitted Entities, owns membership interests with sufficient Voting Control in the limited liability company, or otherwise has legally enforceable rights, such that the Class B Stockholder retains sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such limited liability company; provided that in the event the Class B Stockholder no longer owns sufficient membership interests or has sufficient legally enforceable rights to enable the Class B Stockholder to retain sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to the shares of Class B Common Stock held by such limited liability company, each share of Class B Common Stock then held by such limited liability company shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the shares of Class B Common Stock held by the Permitted Entity of a Class B Stockholder would constitute stock of a “controlled corporation” (as defined in Section 2036(b)(2) of the Code) upon the death of such Class B Stockholder, and the Transfer of shares Class B Common Stock by such Class B Stockholder to the Permitted Entity did not involve a bona fide sale for an adequate and full consideration in money or money’s worth (as contemplated by Section 2036(a) of the Code), then such shares will not automatically convert to Class A Common Stock if the Class B Stockholder does not directly or indirectly retain Voting Control over such shares until such time as the shares of Class B Common Stock would no longer constitute stock of a “controlled corporation” pursuant to the Code upon the death of such Class B Stockholder (such time is referred to as the “Voting Shift”). If the Class B Stockholder does not, within five (5) business days following the mailing of the Corporation’s proxy statement for the first annual or special meeting of stockholders following the Voting Shift, directly or indirectly through one or more Permitted Entities assume sole dispositive power and exclusive Voting Control with respect to such shares of Class B Common Stock, each such share of Class B Common Stock shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock.


(3)     by a Class B Stockholder that is a limited liability company, or a nominee for a limited liability company, which limited liability company beneficially held more than five percent (5%) of the total outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock as of the Effective Time, to any person or entity that, at the Effective Time, was a member of such limited liability company pro rata in accordance with their ownership interests in the company and the terms of any applicable agreement binding the company and its members at the Effective Time, and any further Transfer(s) by any such member that is a partnership or limited liability company to any person or entity that was at such time a partner or member of such partnership or limited liability company pro rata in accordance with their ownership interests in the partnership or limited liability company and the terms of any applicable partnership or similar agreement binding the partnership or limited liability company. All shares of Class B Common Stock held by affiliated entities shall be aggregated together for the purposes of determining the satisfaction of such five percent (5%) threshold.

(iv)     Each share of Class B Common Stock held of record by a Class B Stockholder who is a natural person, or by such Class B Stockholder’s Permitted Entities, shall automatically, without any further action, convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock upon the death of such Class B Stockholder; provided, however, that if a Founder, or such Founder’s Permitted Entity (in either case, the “Transferring Founder”) Transfers exclusive Voting Control (but not ownership) of shares of Class B Common Stock to the other Founder (the “Transferee Founder”) which Transfer of Voting Control is contingent or effective upon the death or dissolution, as applicable, of the Transferring Founder, then each share of Class B Common Stock that is the subject of such Transfer shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock upon that date which is the earlier of: (a) nine (9) months after the date upon which the Transferring Founder died or was dissolved, or (b) the date upon which the Transferee Founder ceases to hold exclusive Voting Control over such shares of Class B Common Stock; provided, further, that if the Transferee Founder shall die or be liquidated within nine (9) months following the death or dissolution of the Transferring Founder, then a trustee designated by the Transferee Founder and approved by the Board of Directors may exercise Voting Control over: (x) the Transferring Founders’ shares of Class B Common Stock and, in such instance, each such share of Class B Common Stock shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock upon that date which is the earlier of: (A) nine (9) months after the date upon which the Transferring Founder died or was dissolved, or (B) the date upon which such trustee ceases to hold exclusive Voting Control over such shares of Class B Common Stock; and (y) the Transferee Founders’ shares of Class B Common Stock (or shares held by an entity of the type referred to in paragraph (2) below established by or for the Transferee Founder) and, in such instance, each such share of Class B Common Stock shall automatically convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock upon that date which is the earlier of: (A) nine (9) months after the date upon which the Transferee Founder died or was dissolved, or (B) the date upon which such trustee ceases to hold exclusive Voting Control over such shares of Class B Common Stock.

(v)     The Corporation may, from time to time, establish such policies and procedures relating to the conversion of the Class B Common Stock to Class A Common Stock and the general administration of this dual class common stock structure, including the issuance of stock certificates with respect thereto, as it may deem necessary or advisable, and may request that holders of shares of Class B Common Stock furnish affidavits or other proof to the Corporation as it deems necessary to verify the ownership of Class B Common Stock and to confirm that a conversion to Class A Common Stock has not occurred. A determination by the Secretary of the Corporation that a Transfer results in a conversion to Class A Common Stock shall be conclusive.

(vi)     In the event of a conversionloss on the subsequent sale of the residence. The Company has entered into an agreement for the subsequent sale of the residence, which is currently in escrow.

Extension of AVLP Loan Agreement

On April 13, 2021, the AVLP Loan Agreement was increased to up to $15,000,000 and extended to December 31, 2023. As of April 14, 2021, the Company has provided loans to AVLP in the principal amount $13,924,136 and, in addition to the 12% convertible promissory notes, AVLP has issued to the Company warrants to purchase 27,848,272 shares of Class B Common Stock to sharesAVLP common stock at an exercise price of Class A Common Stock pursuant to this Section 2, such conversion shall be deemed to have been made at the time that the Transfer$0.50 per share for a period of such shares occurred. Upon any conversion of Class B Common Stock to Class A Common Stock, all rights of the holder of shares of Class B Common Stock shall cease and the person or persons in whose names or names the certificate or certificates representing the shares of Class A Common Stock are to be issued shall be treated for all purposes as having become the record holder or holders of such shares of Class A Common Stock. Shares of Class B Common Stock that are converted into shares of Class A Common Stock as provided in this Section 2 shall be retired and may not be reissued.five years.

 


Forgiveness of Debt

 

(g)ReservationOn January 11, 2021, the Company received forgiveness of Stock. The Corporation shall at all times reserve and keep available outa loan under the PPP in the principal amount of its authorized but unissued shares of Class A Common Stock, solely for the purpose of effecting the conversion of the shares of Class B Common Stock, such number of its shares of Class A Common Stock as shall from time to time be sufficient to effect the conversion of all outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock into shares of Class A Common Stock.$715,101.

Ikonics Corporation

 

Section 3.1.

Change in Control Transaction.

Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D with the Commission on January 14, 2021 disclosing that Ault Global had, through its subsidiary DP Lending, purchased 140,719 shares (the “IKNX Shares”), or approximately 7.12% of all issued and outstanding IKNX Shares, of common stock of Ikonics Corporation (“IKNX”) at a weighted average price (“WAP”) per share of $8.48.

 

The Corporation shall not consummate a Change in Control Transaction without first obtaining the affirmative vote, at a duly called annual or special meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation, of the holders of the greater of: (A) a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote thereon, voting together as a single class, and (B) sixty percent (60%) of the voting power of the shares of capital stock present in person or represented by proxy at the stockholder meeting called to consider the Change in Control Transaction and entitled to vote thereon, voting together as a single class. For the purposes of this section, a “Change in Control Transaction” means the occurrence of any of the following events:

(a)     the sale, encumbrance or disposition (other than non-exclusive licenses in the ordinary course of business and the grant of security interests in the ordinary course of business) by the Corporation of all or substantially all of the Corporation’s assets;

(b)     the merger or consolidation of the Corporation with or into any other corporation or entity, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the voting securities of the Corporation outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving entity or its parent) more than fifty percent (50%) of the total voting power represented by the voting securities of the Corporation or such surviving entity or its parent outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation; or

(c)     the issuance by the Corporation, in a transaction or series of related transactions, of voting securities representing more than two percent (2%) of the total voting power of the Corporation before such issuance, to any person or persons acting as a group as contemplated in Rule 13d-5(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (or any successor provision) such that, following such transaction or related transactions, such person or group of persons would hold more than fifty percent (50%) of the total voting power of the Corporation, after giving effect to such issuance.

Section 4.

Preferred Stock.AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

The Board of Directors is authorized, subject to any limitations prescribed by law, to provide for the issuance of shares of Preferred Stock in series, and to establish from time to time the number of shares to be included in each such series, and to fix the designation, power, preferences, and rights of the shares of each such series and any qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof. Except as otherwise required by law, holders of Common Stock shall not be entitled to vote on any amendment to this Certificate of Incorporation (including any certificate of designation filed with respect to any series of Preferred Stock) that relates solely to the terms of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock if the holders of such affected series are entitled, either separately or together as a class with the holders of one or more other such series, to vote thereon by law or pursuant to this Certificate of Incorporation (including any certificate of designation filed with respect to any series of Preferred Stock).

ARTICLE V

The Corporation is to have perpetual existence.


ARTICLE VI

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

Section 1.

Board of Directors.

The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of the Board of Directors. In addition to the powers and authority expressly conferred upon them by statute or by this Certificate of Incorporation or the Bylaws of the Corporation, the directors are hereby empowered to exercise all such powers and do all such acts and things as may be exercised or done by the Corporation.

Section 2.

Bylaws.

In furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by statute, the Board of Directors is expressly authorized to adopt, alter, amend or repeal the Bylaws of the Corporation. The affirmative vote of at least a majority of the Board of Directors then in office shall be required in order for the Board of Directors to adopt, amend, alter or repeal the Corporation’s Bylaws. The Corporation’s Bylaws may also be adopted, amended, altered or repealed by the stockholders of the Corporation. Notwithstanding the above or any other provision of this Certificate of Incorporation, the Bylaws of the Corporation may not be amended, altered or repealed except in accordance with Article X of the Bylaws. No Bylaw hereafter legally adopted, amended, altered or repealed shall invalidate any prior act of the directors or officers of the Corporation that would have been valid if such Bylaw had not been adopted, amended, altered or repealed.

Section 3.

Controlled Company.

(a)     If, at any time during which shares of capital stock of the Corporation are listed for trading on either The Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”), the New York Stock Exchange or the NYSE American (in either case, “NYSE”), holders of the requisite voting power under the then-applicable Nasdaq or NYSE listing standards notify the Corporation in writing of their election to cause the Corporation to rely upon the applicable “controlled company” exemptions (the “Controlled Company Exemption”) to the corporate governance rules and requirements of the Nasdaq or the NYSE (the “Exchange Governance Rules”), the Corporation shall call a special meeting of the stockholders to consider whether to approve the election to be held within ninety (90) days of written notice of such election (or, if the next succeeding annual meeting of stockholders will be held within ninety (90) days of written notice of such election, the Corporation shall include a proposal to the same effect to be considered at such annual meeting). The Corporation shall not elect to rely upon the Controlled Company Exemption until such time as the Corporation shall have received the approval from holders of at least sixty-six and two thirds percent (66 2/3%) of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation at such annual or special meeting.

(b)     In the event such approval is obtained, for so long as shares of the capital stock of the Corporation are listed on either the Nasdaq or the NYSE and the Corporation remains eligible for the Controlled Company Exemption under the requirements of the applicable Exchange Governance Rules, then the Board of Directors shall be constituted such that (i) a majority of the directors on the Board of Directors shall be Outside Directors (as defined below), and (ii) the Corporation’s compensation committee and the governance and nominating committee (or such committees serving similar functions as the Board of Directors of the Corporation shall constitute from time to time) shall consist of at least two (2) members of the Board of Directors and shall be composed entirely of Outside Directors. In the event the number of Outside Directors serving on the Board of Directors constitutes less than a majority of the directors on the Board of Directors as a result of the death, resignation or removal of an Outside Director, then the Board of Directors may continue to properly exercise its powers and no action of the Board of Directors shall be so invalidated, provided, that the Board of Directors shall promptly take such action as is necessary to appoint new Outside Director(s) to the Board of Directors.

(c)     An “Outside Director” shall mean a director who, currently and for any of the past three years, is and was not an officer of the Corporation (other than service as the chairman of the Board of Directors) or a parent or subsidiary of the Corporation and is not and was not otherwise employed by the corporation or a parent or subsidiary of the Corporation.


Section 4.

Audit Committee.

The Board of Directors of the Corporation shall establish an audit committee whose principal purpose will be to oversee the Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ accounting and financial reporting processes, internal systems of control, independent auditor relationships and audits of consolidated financial statements of the Corporation and its subsidiaries. The audit committee will also determine the appointment of the independent auditors of the Corporation and any change in such appointment and ensure the independence of the Corporation’s auditors. In addition, the audit committee will assume such other duties and responsibilities delegated to it by the Board of Directors and specified for it under applicable law and Exchange Governance Rules.

Section 5. 

Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee.

The Board of Directors of the Corporation shall establish a corporate governance and nominating committee whose principal duties will be to assist the Board of Directors by identifying individuals qualified to become members of the Board of Directors consistent with criteria approved by the Board of Directors, to recommend to the Board of Directors for its approval the slate of nominees to be proposed by the Board of Directors to the stockholders for election to the Board of Directors, to develop and recommend to the Board of Directors the governance principles applicable to the Corporation, as well as such other duties and responsibilities delegated to it by the Board of Directors and specified for it under applicable law and Exchange Governance Rules. In the event the corporate governance and nominating committee will not be recommending a then incumbent director for inclusion in the slate of nominees to be proposed by the Board of Directors to the stockholders for election to the Board of Directors, and provided such incumbent director has not notified the committee that he or she will be resigning or that he or she does not intend to stand for re-election to the Board of Directors, then, in the case of an election to be held at an annual meeting of stockholders, the corporate governance and nominating committee will recommend the slate of nominees to the Board of Directors at least thirty (30) days prior to the latest date required by the provisions of Sections 2.14 (advance notice of stockholder business) and 2.15 (advance notice of director nominations) of the Bylaws of the Corporation (as such provisions may be amended from time to time) for stockholders to submit nominations for directors at such annual meeting, or in the case of an election to be held at a special meeting of stockholders, at least ten (10) days prior to the latest date required by the provisions of Sections 2.14 and 2.15 of the Bylaws for stockholders to submit nominations for directors at such special meeting.

Section 6.

Compensation Committee.

The Board of Directors of the Corporation shall establish a compensation committee whose principal duties will be to review employee compensation policies and programs as well as the compensation of the chief executive officer and other executive officers of the Corporation, to recommend to the Board of Directors a compensation program for outside members of the Board of Directors, as well as such other duties and responsibilities delegated to it by the Board of Directors and specified for it under applicable law and Exchange Governance Rules.

Section 7.

Election of Directors.

Elections of directors need not be by written ballot unless the Bylaws of the Corporation shall so provide.

Section 8.

Cumulative Voting.

No stockholder will be permitted to cumulate votes at any election of directors.

Section 9.

Number of Directors.

The number of directors that constitute the whole Board of Directors shall be fixed exclusively in the manner designated in the Bylaws of the Corporation.


ARTICLE VII

Section 1.

Limitation of Personal Liability.

To the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law of Delaware as the same exists or as may hereafter be amended, a director of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director. If the General Corporation Law of Delaware is amended to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the Corporation shall be eliminated to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law of Delaware, as so amended.

Section 2.

Indemnification.

The Corporation may indemnify to the fullest extent permitted by law any person made or threatened to be made a party to an action or proceeding, whether criminal, civil, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that he, she, his or her testator or intestate is or was a director, officer, employee or agent at the request of the Corporation or any predecessor to the Corporation or serves or served at any other enterprise as a director, officer, employee or agent at the request of the Corporation or any predecessor to the Corporation.

Section 3.

Inconsistent Provisions.

Neither any amendment or repeal of any Section of this Article VII, nor the adoption of any provision of this Certificate of Incorporation inconsistent with this Article VII, shall eliminate or reduce the effect of this Article VII, in respect of any matter occurring, or any action or proceeding accruing or arising or that, but for this Article VII, would accrue or arise, prior to such amendment, repeal or adoption of an inconsistent provision.

ARTICLE VIII

Meetings of stockholders may be held within or without the State of Delaware, as the Bylaws may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept (subject to any provision contained in the statutes) outside of the State of Delaware at such place or places as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

ARTICLE IX

Section 1.

Special Meetings.

Unless otherwise required by law, special meetings of the stockholders of the Corporation, for any purpose or purposes, may be called only by (i) the Board of Directors of the Corporation, (ii) the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation, (iii) the Chief Executive Officer (or, in the absence of a Chief Executive Officer, the President) of the Corporation, or (iv) a holder, or group of holders, of Common Stock holding more than twenty percent (20%) of the total voting power of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote.

Section 2.

Action Without a Meeting.

Any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation may, but need not, be effected at a duly called annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation; any such action may also be effected by any consent in writing by such stockholders pursuant to Section 228 of the General Corporation Law of Delaware.

ARTICLE XII

The Corporation reserves the right to amend or repeal any provision contained in this Certificate of Incorporation in the manner prescribed by the laws of the State of Delaware and all rights conferred upon stockholders are granted subject to this reservation; provided, however, that notwithstanding any other provision of this Certificate of Incorporation, or any provision of law that might otherwise permit a lesser vote or no vote, but in addition to any vote of the holders of any class or series of the stock of the Corporation, and, as applicable, such other approvals of the Board of Directors of the Corporation, as are required by law or by this Certificate of Incorporation: (i) the unanimous consent of Board of Directors then in office, and the affirmative vote of the holders at least a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote, shall be required to amend or repeal Article IV, Section 2, this clause (i) of Article XII; (ii) the affirmative vote of the holders of the greater of: (A) a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote thereon, or (B) sixty percent (60%) of the voting power of the shares of capital stock present in person or represented by proxy at the stockholder meeting and entitled to vote thereon, shall be required to amend or repeal Article IV, Section 3 or this clause (ii) of Article XII; (iii) the consent of a majority of the members of the Board then in office, and the affirmative vote of the holders at least sixty-six and two-thirds percent (66 2/3%) of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote shall be required to amend or repeal Article IV, Section 4 and Article XI or this clause (iii) of Article XII; (iv) the unanimous consent of the Board of Directors then in office and the consent of at least sixty-six and two-thirds percent (66 2/3%) of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation shall be required to amend or repeal Article VI, Section 3, 5, 6 or 7 or this clause (iv) of Article XII; and (v) the consent of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors then in office and the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote shall be required to amend or repeal this clause (v) of Article XII.


Appendix E - Bylaws

BYLAWS

OF

DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

a Delaware Corporation

Effective as of September __, 2017


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Article I — Corporate Offices

E-4

1.1

Registered Office

E-4

1.2

Other Offices

E-4DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

Article II — Meetings of Stockholders

E-4

2.1

Place of Meetings

E-4

2.2

Annual Meeting

E-4

2.3

Special Meeting

E-4

2.4

Notice of Stockholders’ Meetings

E-4

2.5

Manner of Giving Notice; Affidavit of Notice

E-5

2.6

Quorum

E-5

2.7

Adjourned Meeting; Notice

E-5

2.8

Administration of the Meeting

E-6

2.9

Voting

E-6

2.10

No Stockholder Action by Written Consent without a Meeting

E-6

2.11

Record Date For Stockholder Notice; Voting; Giving Consents

E-7

2.12

Proxies

E-7

2.13

List of Stockholders Entitled to Vote

E-7

2.14

Advance Notice of Stockholder Business

E-8

2.15

Advance Notice of Director Nominations

E-8

Article III — Directors

E-9

3.1

Powers

E-9

3.2

Number of Directors

E-9

3.3

Election, Qualification and Term of Office of Directors

E-9

3.4

Resignation and Vacancies

E-9

3.5

Place of Meetings; Meetings by Telephone

E-10

3.6

Regular Meetings

E-10

3.7

Special Meetings; Notice

E-10

3.8

Quorum

E-10

3.9

Waiver of Notice

E-10

3.10

Board Action by Written Consent without a Meeting

E-11

3.11

Adjourned Meeting; Notice

E-11

3.12

Fees and Compensation of Directors

E-11

3.13

Removal of Directors

E-11

3.14

Corporate Governance Compliance

E-11

Article IV — Committees

E-11

4.1

Committees of Directors

E-11

4.2

Committee Minutes

E-11

4.3

Meetings and Action of Committees

E-11

4.4

Audit Committee

E-12

4.5

Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee

E-12

4.6

Compensation Committee

E-12

Article V — Officers

E-12

5.1

Officers

E-12

5.2

Appointment of Officers

E-12

5.3

5.3Subordinate Officers

E-13

5.4

5.4Removal and Resignation of Officers

E-13

5.5

5.5Vacancies in Offices

E-13

5.6

5.6Chairman of the Board

E-13

 

 


2.Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D/A with the Commission on January 27, 2021, disclosing that Ault Global had increased its position to 166,182 IKNX Shares, or approximately 8.41% of all issued and outstanding IKNX Shares at a WAP per share of $10.30.

 

5.7

Chief Executive Officer.

3.

E-13

5.8

Presidents

E-13

5.9

Vice Presidents

E-13

5.10

Secretary

E-13

5.11

Chief Financial Officer

E-14

5.12

Treasurer

E-14

5.13

Assistant Secretary

E-14

5.14

Assistant Treasurer

E-15

5.15

RepresentationAult Global filed a Schedule 13D/A with the Commission on January 28, 2021, disclosing that Ault Global had increased its position to 197,634 IKNX Shares, or approximately 9.99% of all issued and outstanding IKNX Shares at a WAP per share of Other Corporations

E-15

5.16

Authority and Duties of Officers

E-15

Article VI — Records and Reports

E-15

6.1

Maintenance and Inspection of Records

E-15

6.2

Inspection by Directors

E-15

Article VII — General Matters

E-15

7.1

Checks; Drafts; Evidences of Indebtedness

E-15

7.2

Execution of Corporate Contracts and Instruments

E-15

7.3

Stock Certificates; Partly Paid Shares

E-16

7.4

Special Designation On Certificates

E-16

7.5

Lost Certificates

E-16

7.6

Construction; Definitions

E-16

7.7

Dividends

E-16

7.8

Fiscal Year

E-16

7.9

Seal

E-16

7.10

Transfer of Stock

E-17

7.11

Stock Transfer Agreements

E-17

7.12

Registered Stockholders

E-17

7.13

Waiver of Notice

E-17

7.14

Charitable Foundation

E-17

Article VIII — Notice by Electronic Transmission

E-17

8.1

Notice by Electronic Transmission

E-17

8.2

Definition of Electronic Transmission

E-18

8.3

Inapplicability

E-18

Article IX — Indemnification of Directors and Officers

E-18

9.1

Power to Indemnify in Actions, Suits or Proceedings Other Than Those by or in the Right of the Corporation

E-18

9.2

Power to Indemnify in Actions, Suits or Proceedings by or in the Right of the Corporation

E-18

9.3

Authorization of Indemnification

E-19

9.4

Good Faith Defined

E-19

9.5

Indemnification by A Court

E-19

9.6

Expenses Payable In Advance

E-19

9.7

Non-Exclusivity of Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses.

E-20

9.8

Insurance

E-20

9.9

Certain Definitions

E-20

9.10

Survival of Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses.

E-20

9.11

Limitation On Indemnification

E-20

9.12

Indemnification of Employees and Agents

E-20

9.13

Effect of Amendment or Repeal

E-20

Article X — Amendments

E-20

$9.72.

 


SilverSun Technologies, Inc.

1.Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D with the Commission on February 1, 2021 disclosing that Ault Global had, through DP Lending, purchased 436,255 shares (the “SSNT Shares”), or approximately 9.69% of all issued and outstanding SSNT Shares, of common stock of SilverSun Technologies, Inc. (“SSNT) at a WAP per share of $4.33. In addition, the Schedule 13D disclosed that Milton C. Ault had purchased 10,000 SSNT Shares at a WAP per share of $3.57.

2.Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D/A with the Commission on March 1, 2021, disclosing that Ault Global had decreased its position to 397,937 SSNT Shares, or approximately 8.84% of all issued and outstanding SSNT Shares at a WAP per share of $9.28.

3.Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D/A with the Commission on March 4, 2021, disclosing that Ault Global had decreased its position to 387,426 SSNT Shares, or approximately 8.61% of all issued and outstanding SSNT Shares at a WAP per share of $7.24.

4.Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D/A with the Commission on March 18, 2021, disclosing that Ault Global had decreased its position to 276,774 SSNT Shares, or approximately 6.15% of all issued and outstanding SSNT Shares at a WAP per share of $7.48.

5.Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D/A with the Commission on March 26, 2021, disclosing that Ault Global had decreased its position to 75,000 SSNT Shares, or approximately 1.67% of all issued and outstanding SSNT Shares at a WAP per share of $7.11.

6.Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D with the Commission on April 5, 2021, disclosing that Ault Global had increased its position to 305,500 SSNT Shares, or approximately 6.04% of all issued and outstanding SSNT Shares at a WAP per share of $6.14. Further, the Schedule 13D disclosed that Mr. Ault had decreased his position to 8,800 SSNT Shares.

 

BYLAWSNaked Brand Group, Ltd.

 

1.Ault Global filed a Schedule 13D with the Commission on April 8, 2021 disclosing that Ault Global had, through DP Lending, acquired 41,141,660 ordinary shares (the “NAKD Shares”), or approximately 6.41% of all issued and outstanding NAKD Shares, of Naked Brand Group Limited (“NAKD”).

OF

 

DPW HOLDINGS, INC.Appendix B

ARTICLE I

CORPORATE OFFICES

1.1     RegisteredOffice. The registered office of DPW Holdings, Inc. (the “Corporation”) shall be fixed in the Corporation’s certificate of in Corporation, as the same may be amended and/or restated from time to time (as so amended and/or restated, the “Certificate”).

1.2     OtherOffices. The Corporation’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) may at any time establish other offices at any place or places where the Corporation is qualified to do business.

ARTICLE II

MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS

2.1     Place ofMeetings. Meetings of stockholders shall be held at any place within or outside the State of Delaware as designated by the Board. The Board may, in its sole discretion, determine that a meeting of stockholders shall not be held at any place, but may instead be held solely by means of remote communication as authorized by Section 211(a)(2) of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”). In the absence of any such designation or determination, stockholders’ meetings shall be held at the Corporation’s principal executive office.

2.2     AnnualMeeting. The annual meeting of stockholders shall be held each year on a date and at a time designated by the Board. At the annual meeting, directors shall be elected and any other proper business may be transacted.

2.3     SpecialMeeting. Unless otherwise required by law or the Certificate, special meetings of the stockholders may be called at any time, for any purpose or purposes, only by (i) the Board, (ii) the Chairman of the Board, (iii) the chief executive officer of the Corporation, or (iv) holders of more than twenty percent (20%) of the total voting power of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote.

If any person(s) other than the Board calls a special meeting, the request shall:

(a)     be in writing;

(b)     specify the general nature of the business proposed to be transacted; and

(c)     be delivered personally or sent by registered mail or by facsimile transmission to the secretary of the Corporation.

Upon receipt of such a request, the Board shall determine the date, time and place of such special meeting, which must be scheduled to be held on a date that is within ninety (90) days of receipt by the secretary of the request therefor, and the secretary of the Corporation shall prepare a proper notice thereof. No business may be transacted at such special meeting other than the business specified in the notice to stockholders of such meeting.

2.4     Notice of Stockholders’Meetings. All notices of meetings of stockholders shall be sent or otherwise given in accordance with either Section 2.5 or Section 8.1 of these bylaws not less than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days before the date of the meeting to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting, except as otherwise required by applicable law. The notice shall specify the place, if any, date and hour of the meeting, the means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called. Any previously scheduled meeting of stockholders may be postponed, and, unless the Certificate provides otherwise, any special meeting of the stockholders may be cancelled by resolution duly adopted by a majority of the Board members then in office upon public notice given prior to the date previously scheduled for such meeting of stockholders.


Whenever notice is required to be given, under the DGCL, the Certificate or these bylaws, to any person with whom communication is unlawful, the giving of such notice to such person shall not be required and there shall be no duty to apply to any governmental authority or agency for a license or permit to give such notice to such person. Any action or meeting which shall be taken or held without notice to any such person with whom communication is unlawful shall have the same force and effect as if such notice had been duly given. In the event that the action taken by the Corporation is such as to require the filing of a certificate with the Secretary of State of Delaware, the certificate shall state, if such is the fact and if notice is required, that notice was given to all persons entitled to receive notice except such persons with whom communication is unlawful.

Whenever notice is required to be given, under any provision of the DGCL, the Certificate or these bylaws, to any stockholder to whom (a) notice of two (2) consecutive annual meetings, or (b) all, and at least two (2) payments (if sent by first-class mail) of dividends or interest on securities during a twelve (12) month period, have been mailed addressed to such person at such person’s address as shown on the records of the Corporation and have been returned undeliverable, the giving of such notice to such person shall not be required. Any action or meeting which shall be taken or held without notice to such person shall have the same force and effect as if such notice had been duly given. If any such person shall deliver to the Corporation a written notice setting forth such person’s then current address, the requirement that notice be given to such person shall be reinstated. In the event that the action taken by the Corporation is such as to require the filing of a certificate with the Secretary of State of Delaware, the certificate need not state that notice was not given to persons to whom notice was not required to be given pursuant to Section 230(b) of the DGCL.

The exception in subsection (a) of the above paragraph to the requirement that notice be given shall not be applicable to any notice returned as undeliverable if the notice was given by electronic transmission.

2.5     Manner of Giving Notice; Affidavit of Notice. Notice of any meeting of stockholders shall be given:

(a)     if mailed, when deposited in the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the stockholder at his or her address as it appears on the Corporation’s records;

(b)     if electronically transmitted, as provided in Section 8.1 of these bylaws; or

(c)     otherwise, when delivered.

An affidavit of the secretary or an assistant secretary of the Corporation or of the transfer agent or any other agent of the Corporation that the notice has been given shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein.

Notice may be waived in accordance with Section 7.13 of these bylaws.

2.6     Quorum. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate or required by law, stockholders representing a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding capital stock of the Corporation, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at all meetings of the stockholders. If such quorum is not present or represented at any meeting of the stockholders, then the chairman of the meeting, or the stockholders representing a majority of the voting power of the capital stock at the meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, shall have power to adjourn the meeting from time to time until a quorum is present or represented. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present or represented, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally noticed. The stockholders present at a duly called meeting at which quorum is present may continue to transact business until adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal of enough stockholders to leave less than a quorum.

2.7     Adjourned Meeting;Notice. When a meeting is adjourned to another time or place, unless these bylaws otherwise require, notice need not be given of the adjourned meeting if the time, place if any thereof, and the means of remote communications if any by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such adjourned meeting are announced at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken. At the continuation of the adjourned meeting, the Corporation may transact any business that might have been transacted at the original meeting. If the adjournment is for more than thirty (30) days, or if after the adjournment a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.4 and 2.5 of these bylaws.


2.8     Administration of theMeeting. Meetings of stockholders shall be presided over by the chairman of the Board or, in the absence thereof, by such person as the chairman of the Board shall appoint, or, in the absence thereof or in the event that the chairman shall fail to make such appointment, any officer of the Corporation elected by the Board. In the absence of the secretary of the Corporation, the secretary of the meeting shall be such person as the chairman of the meeting appoints.

The Board shall, in advance of any meeting of stockholders, appoint one (1) or more inspector(s), who may include individual(s) who serve the Corporation in other capacities, including without limitation as officers, employees or agents, to act at the meeting of stockholders and make a written report thereof. The Board may designate one (1) or more persons as alternate inspector(s) to replace any inspector, who fails to act. If no inspector or alternate has been appointed or is able to act at a meeting of stockholders, the chairman of the meeting shall appoint one (1) or more inspector(s) to act at the meeting. Each inspector, before discharging his or her duties, shall take and sign an oath to faithfully execute the duties of inspector with strict impartiality and according to the best of his or her ability. The inspector(s) or alternate(s) shall have the duties prescribed pursuant to Section 231 of the DGCL or other applicable law.

The Board shall be entitled to make such rules or regulations for the conduct of meetings of stockholders as it shall deem necessary, appropriate or convenient. Subject to such rules and regulations, if any, the chairman of the meeting shall have the right and authority to prescribe such rules, regulations and procedures and to do all acts as, in the judgment of such chairman, are necessary, appropriate or convenient for the proper conduct of the meeting, including without limitation establishing an agenda of business of the meeting, rules or regulations to maintain order, restrictions on entry to the meeting after the time fixed for commencement thereof and the fixing of the date and time of the opening and closing of the polls for each matter upon which the stockholders will vote at a meeting (and shall announce such at the meeting).

2.9     Voting. The stockholders entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.11 of these bylaws, subject to Section 217 (relating to voting rights of fiduciaries, pledgors and joint owners of stock) and Section 218 (relating to voting trusts and other voting agreements) of the DGCL.

Except as otherwise provided in the provisions of Section 213 of the DGCL (relating to the fixing of a date for determination of stockholders of record) or these bylaws, each stockholder shall be entitled to that number of votes for each share of capital stock held by such stockholder as set forth in the Certificate.

In all matters, other than the election of directors and except as otherwise required by law, the Certificate or these bylaws, the affirmative vote of a majority of the voting power of the shares present or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter shall be the act of the stockholders. Directors shall be elected by a plurality of the voting power of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the election of directors.

The stockholders of the Corporation shall not have the right to cumulate their votes for the election of directors of the Corporation.

2.10     Stockholder Action by Written Consent without a Meeting. Any action required or permitted to be taken at any Annual or Special Meeting of Stockholders of the Corporation may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if a consent or consents in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by the holders of outstanding stock having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted and shall be delivered to the Corporation by delivery to its registered office in the State of Delaware, its principal place of business, or an officer or agent of the Corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of the stockholders are recorded. Delivery made to the Corporation’s registered office shall be by hand or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. Every written consent shall bear the date of signature of each stockholder who signs the consent and no written consent shall be effective to take the corporate action referred to therein unless, within sixty (60) days of the earliest dated consent delivered in the manner required by this Section 2.10 to the Corporation, written consents signed by a sufficient number of holders to take action are delivered to the Corporation by delivery to its registered office in the State of Delaware, its principal place of business, or an officer or agent of the Corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of the stockholders are recorded. Any copy, facsimile or other reliable reproduction of a consent in writing may be substituted or used in lieu of the original writing for any and all purposes for which the original writing could be used, provided that such copy, facsimile or other reproduction shall be a complete reproduction of the entire original writing. Prompt notice of the taking of the corporate action without a meeting by less than unanimous written consent shall be given to those stockholders who have not consented in writing and who, if the action had been taken at a meeting, would have been entitled to notice of the meeting if the record date for such meeting had been the date that written consents signed by a sufficient number of holders to take the action were delivered to the Corporation as provided above in this Section 2.10.


Any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation (if the Corporation has more than one stockholder at such time) must be effected at a duly called annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation and may not be effected by any consent in writing by such stockholders.

2.11     Record Date for Stockholder Notice; Voting; Giving Consents. In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, or entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board may fix, in advance, a record date, which record date shall not precede the date on which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted and which shall not be more than sixty (60) nor less than ten (10) days before the date of such meeting, nor more than sixty (60) days prior to any other such action.

If the Board does not fix a record date in accordance with these bylaws and applicable law:

(a)     The record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice is given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held.

(b)     The record date for determining stockholders entitled to consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting, when no prior action by the Board is necessary, shall be the first day on which a signed written consent setting forth the action taken or proposed to be taken is delivered to the Corporation.

(c)     The record date for determining stockholders for any other purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board adopts the resolution relating thereto.

A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting.

2.12     Proxies. Each stockholder entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders may authorize another person or persons to act for such stockholder by proxy authorized by an instrument in writing or by a transmission permitted by law and filed with the secretary of the Corporation, but no such proxy shall be voted or acted upon after three (3) years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period. A stockholder may also authorize another person or persons to act for him, her or it as proxy in the manner(s) provided under Section 212(c) of the DGCL or as otherwise provided under Delaware law. The revocability of a proxy that states on its face that it is irrevocable shall be governed by the provisions of Section 212 of the DGCL.

2.13     List of Stockholders Entitled toVote. The officer who has charge of the stock ledger of the Corporation shall prepare and make, at least ten (10) days before every meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. The Corporation shall not be required to include electronic mail addresses or other electronic contact information on such list. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting for a period of at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting: (i) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain access to such list is provided with the notice of the meeting, or (ii) during ordinary business hours, at the Corporation’s principal place of business.

In the event that the Corporation determines to make the list available on an electronic network, the Corporation may take reasonable steps to ensure that such information is available only to stockholders of the Corporation. If the meeting is to be held at a place, then the list shall be produced and kept at the time and place of the meeting during the whole time thereof, and may be inspected by any stockholder who is present. If the meeting is to be held solely by means of remote communication, then the list shall also be open to the examination of any stockholder during the whole time of the meeting on a reasonably accessible electronic network, and the information required to access such list shall be provided with the notice of the meeting.


2.14     Advance Notice of StockholderBusiness. Only such business shall be conducted as shall have been properly brought before a meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation. To be properly brought before an annual meeting, business must be (a) specified in the notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto) given by or at the direction of the Board, (b) otherwise properly brought before the meeting by or at the direction of the Board, or (c) a proper matter for stockholder action under the DGCL that has been properly brought before the meeting by a stockholder (i) who is a stockholder of record on the date of the giving of the notice provided for in this Section 2.14 and on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to vote at such annual meeting and (ii) who complies with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 2.14. For such business to be considered properly brought before the meeting by a stockholder such stockholder must, in addition to any other applicable requirements, have given timely notice in proper form of such stockholder’s intent to bring such business before such meeting. To be timely, such stockholder’s notice must be delivered to or mailed and received by the secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the 90th day, nor earlier than the close of business on the 120th day, prior to the anniversary date of the immediately preceding annual meeting; provided, however, that in the event that no annual meeting was held in the previous year or the annual meeting is called for a date that is not within thirty (30) days before or after such anniversary date, notice by the stockholder to be timely must be so received not later than the close of business on the tenth (10th) day following the day on which such notice of the date of the meeting was mailed or public disclosure of the date of the meeting was made, whichever occurs first.

To be in proper form, a stockholder’s notice to the secretary shall be in writing and shall set forth:

(a)     the name and record address of the stockholder who intends to propose the business and the class or series and number of shares of capital stock of the Corporation which are owned beneficially or of record by such stockholder;

(b)     a representation that the stockholder is a holder of record of stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at such meeting and intends to appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to introduce the business specified in the notice;

(c)     a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting;

(d)     any material interest of the stockholder in such business; and

(e)     any other information that is required to be provided by the stockholder pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in order to include information with respect to a stockholder proposal in the proxy statement and form of proxy for a stockholder’s meeting, stockholders must provide notice as required by, and otherwise comply with the requirements of, the Exchange Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

No business shall be conducted at the annual meeting of stockholders except business brought before the annual meeting in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 2.14. The chairman of the meeting may refuse to acknowledge the proposal of any business not made in compliance with the foregoing procedure.

2.15     Advance Notice Of DirectorNominations. Only persons who are nominated in accordance with the following procedures shall be eligible for election as directors of the Corporation, except as may be otherwise provided in the Certificate with respect to the right of holders of Preferred Stock of the Corporation to nominate and elect a specified number of directors. To be properly brought before an annual meeting of stockholders, or any special meeting of stockholders called for the purpose of electing directors, nominations for the election of director must be (a) specified in the notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto), (b) made by or at the direction of the Board (or any duly authorized committee thereof) or (c) made by any stockholder of the Corporation (i) who is a stockholder of record on the date of the giving of the notice provided for in this Section 2.15 and on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to vote at such meeting and (ii) who complies with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 2.15.

In addition to any other applicable requirements, for a nomination to be made by a stockholder, such stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in proper written form to the secretary of the Corporation. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice to the secretary must be delivered to or mailed and received at the principal executive offices of the Corporation, in the case of an annual meeting, in accordance with the provisions set forth in Section 2.14, and, in the case of a special meeting of stockholders called for the purpose of electing directors, not later than the close of business on the tenth (10th) day following the day on which notice of the date of the special meeting was mailed or public disclosure of the date of the special meeting was made, whichever first occurs.


To be in proper written form, a stockholder’s notice to the secretary must set forth:

(a)     as to each person whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election as a director (i) the name, age, business address and residence address of the person, (ii) the principal occupation or employment of the person, (iii) the class or series and number of shares of capital stock of the Corporation which are owned beneficially or of record by the person, (iv) a description of all arrangements or understandings between the stockholder and each nominee and any other person or persons (naming such person or persons) pursuant to which the nominations are to be made by the stockholder, and (v) any other information relating to such person that is required to be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for elections of directors, or is otherwise required, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act (including without limitation such person’s written consent to being named in the proxy statement, if any, as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected); and

(b)     as to such stockholder giving notice, the information required to be provided pursuant to Section 2.14.

Subject to the rights of any holders of Preferred Stock of the Corporation, no person shall be eligible for election as a director of the Corporation unless nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 2.15. If the chairman of the meeting properly determines that a nomination was not made in accordance with the foregoing procedures, the chairman shall declare to the meeting that the nomination was defective and such defective nomination shall be disregarded.

 

 

ARTICLE III

DIRECTORSAULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

 

3.1     Powers. Subject to the provisions of the DGCL and any limitations in the Certificate, the business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed and all corporate powers shall be exercised by or under the direction of the Board.

3.2     Number ofDirectors. Subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock to elect directors under specified circumstances, the authorized number of directors shall be determined from time to time by resolution of the Board, provided the Board shall consist of at least five members. No reduction of the authorized number of directors shall have the effect of removing any director before that director’s term of office expires.

3.3     Election, Qualification and Term of Office ofDirectors. Except as provided in Section 3.4 and Section 3.13 of these bylaws, directors shall be elected at each annual meeting of stockholders to hold office until the next annual meeting. Directors need not be stockholders unless so required by the Certificate or these bylaws. The Certificate or these bylaws may prescribe other qualifications for directors. Each director, including a director elected to fill a vacancy, shall hold office until such director’s successor is elected and qualified or until such director’s earlier death, resignation or removal.

All elections of directors shall be by written ballot, unless otherwise provided in the Certificate. If authorized by the Board, such requirement of a written ballot shall be satisfied by a ballot submitted by electronic transmission, provided that any such electronic transmission must be either set forth or be submitted with information from which it can be determined that the electronic transmission was authorized.

3.4     Resignation andVacancies. Any director may resign at any time upon written notice or by electronic transmission to the chairman of the Board, with a copy to the secretary of the Corporation.

Subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock of the Corporation then outstanding and unless the Board otherwise determines, newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors, or any vacancies on the Board resulting from the death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal from office or other cause shall, unless otherwise required by law, be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors then in office, even though less than a quorum of the Board, or by a sole remaining director. When one or more directors resigns and the resignation is effective at a future date, a majority of the directors then in office, including those who have so resigned, shall have power to fill such vacancy or vacancies, the vote thereon to take effect when such resignation or resignations shall become effective, and each director so chosen shall hold office as provided in this section in the filling of other vacancies.


3.5     Place of Meetings; Meetings byTelephone. The Board may hold meetings, both regular and special, either within or outside the State of Delaware. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate or these bylaws, members of the Board, or any committee designated by the Board, may participate in a meeting of the Board, or any committee, by means of conference telephone or other communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and such participation in a meeting shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.

3.6     RegularMeetings. Regular meetings of the Board may be held with at least two (2) business days prior notice at such time and at such place as shall from time to time be determined by the Board.

3.7     Special Meetings;Notice. Special meetings of the Board for any purpose or purposes may be called at any time by (i) the Board of Directors of the Corporation, (ii) the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation, (iii) the Chief Executive Officer (or, in the absence of a Chief Executive Officer, the President) of the Corporation, or (iv) a holder, or group of holders, of Common Stock holding more than twenty percent (20%) of the total voting power of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote. The person(s) authorized to call special meetings of the Board may fix the place and time of the meeting.

Notice of the time and place of special meetings shall be:

(a)     delivered personally by hand, by courier or by telephone;

(b)     sent by United States first-class mail, postage prepaid;

(c)     sent by facsimile; or

(d)     sent by electronic mail,

directed to each director at that director’s address, telephone number, facsimile number or electronic mail address, as the case may be, as shown on the Corporation’s records.

If the notice is (i) delivered personally by hand, by courier or by telephone, (ii) sent by facsimile or (iii) sent by electronic mail, it shall be delivered or sent at least twenty-four (24) hours before the time of the holding of the meeting. If the notice is sent by United States mail, it shall be deposited in the United States mail at least four days before the time of the holding of the meeting. Any oral notice may be communicated either to the director or to a person at the office of the director who the person giving notice has reason to believe will promptly communicate such notice to the director. The notice need not specify the place of the meeting if the meeting is to be held at the Corporation’s principal executive office nor the purpose of the meeting.

3.8     Quorum. Except as otherwise required by law or the Certificate, at all meetings of the Board, a majority of the authorized number of directors (as determined pursuant to Section 3.2 of these bylaws) shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, except to adjourn as provided in Section 3.11 of these bylaws. The vote of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board, except as may be otherwise specifically provided by statute, the Certificate or these bylaws.

3.9     Waiver ofNotice. Whenever notice is required to be given under any provisions of the DGCL, the Certificate or these bylaws, a written waiver thereof, signed by the person entitled to notice, or a waiver by electronic transmission by the person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to notice. Attendance of a person at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the person attends a meeting solely for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the directors, or members of a committee of directors, need be specified in any written waiver of notice or any waiver by electronic transmission unless so required by the Certificate or these bylaws.


3.10     Board Action by Written Consent without aMeeting. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate or these bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board, or of any committee thereof, may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission and the writing or writings or electronic transmission or transmissions are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board or committee. Such filing shall be in paper form if the minutes are maintained in paper form and shall be in electronic form if the minutes are maintained in electronic form.

3.11     Adjourned Meeting;Notice. If a quorum is not present at any meeting of the Board, then a majority of the directors present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum is present.

3.12     Fees and Compensation ofDirectors. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate or these bylaws, the Board shall have the authority to fix the compensation of directors.

3.13     Removal ofDirectors. Subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock then outstanding, any director or the entire Board may be removed from office at any time, with or without cause, by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation then entitled to vote in the election of directors.

3.14     Corporate GovernanceCompliance. Without otherwise limiting the powers of the Board set forth in Section 3.1 and provided that shares of capital stock of the Corporation are listed for trading on either the NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) or the New York Stock Exchange or the NYSE American (in either case, “NYSE”), the Corporation shall comply with the corporate governance rules and requirements of the NASDAQ or the NYSE, as applicable.

ARTICLE IV

COMMITTEES

4.1     Committees ofDirectors. The Board may designate one or more committees, each committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the Corporation. The Board may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not such member or members constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member. Any such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the Board or in these bylaws, shall have and may exercise such lawfully delegable powers and duties as the Board may confer. Each committee will comply with all applicable provisions of: the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the rules and requirements of NASDAQ or NYSE, as applicable, and will have the right to retain independent legal counsel and other advisers at the Corporation’s expense.

4.2     CommitteeMinutes. Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report to the Board when required.

4.3     Meetings and Action ofCommittees. Meetings and actions of committees shall be governed by, and held and taken in accordance with, the provisions of:

(a)     Section 3.5 (place of meetings and meetings by telephone);

(b)     Section 3.6 (regular meetings);

(c)     Section 3.7 (special meetings and notice);

(d)     Section 3.8 (quorum);

(e)     Section 3.9 (waiver of notice);

(f)     Section 3.10 (action without a meeting); and

(g)     Section 3.11 (adjournment and notice of adjournment), with such changes in the context of those bylaws as are necessary to substitute the committee and its members for the Board and its members.


Notwithstanding the foregoing:

(a)     the time of regular meetings of committees may be determined either by resolution of the Board or by resolution of the committee;

(b)     special meetings of committees may also be called by resolution of the Board; and

(c)     notice of special meetings of committees shall also be given to all alternate members, who shall have the right to attend all meetings of the committee. The Board may adopt rules for the government of any committee not inconsistent with the provisions of these bylaws.

4.4     AuditCommittee. The Board shall establish an Audit Committee whose principal purpose will be to oversee the Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ accounting and financial reporting processes, internal systems of control, independent auditor relationships and audits of consolidated financial statements of the Corporation and its subsidiaries. The Audit Committee will also determine the appointment of the independent auditors of the Corporation and any change in such appointment and ensure the independence of the Corporation’s auditors. In addition, the Audit Committee will assume such other duties and responsibilities as the Board may confer upon the committee from time to time.

4.5     Corporate Governance and NominatingCommittee. The Board shall establish a Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee whose principal duties will be to assist the Board by identifying individuals qualified to become Board members consistent with criteria approved by the Board, to recommend to the Board for its approval the slate of nominees to be proposed by the Board to the stockholders for election to the Board, to develop and recommend to the Board the governance principles applicable to the Corporation, as well as such other duties and responsibilities as the Board may confer upon the committee from time to time. In the event the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee will not be recommending a then incumbent director for inclusion in the slate of nominees to be proposed by the Board to the stockholders for election to the Board, and provided such incumbent director has not notified the Committee that he or she will be resigning or that he or she does not intend to stand for re-election to the Board, then, in the case of an election to be held at an annual meeting of stockholders, the Committee will recommend the slate of nominees to the Board at least thirty (30) days prior to the latest date required by the provisions of Sections 2.14 and 2.15 of these bylaws for stockholders to submit nominations for directors at such annual meeting, or in the case of an election to be held at a special meeting of stockholders, at least ten (10) days prior to the latest date required by the provisions of Sections 2.14 and 2.15 of these bylaws for stockholders to submit nominations for directors at such special meeting.

4.6     CompensationCommittee. The Board shall establish a Compensation Committee whose principal duties will be to review employee compensation policies and programs as well as the compensation of the chief executive officer and other executive officers of the Corporation, to recommend to the Board a compensation program for outside Board members, as well as such other duties and responsibilities as the Board may confer upon the committee from time to time.

ARTICLE V

OFFICERS

5.1     Officers. The officers of the Corporation shall be a chief executive officer and a secretary. The Corporation may also have, at the discretion of the Board, a chairman of the Board, an executive chairman of the Board, one or more presidents, a chief financial officer, a treasurer, one or more vice presidents, one or more assistant vice presidents, one or more assistant treasurers, one or more assistant secretaries, and any such other officers as may be appointed in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws.

Any number of offices may be held by the same person, provided, however, that, except as provided in Section 5.6 below, the chairman of the Board shall not hold any other office of the Corporation.

5.2     Appointment ofOfficers. The Board shall appoint the officers of the Corporation, except such officers as may be appointed in accordance with the provisions of Sections 5.3 of these bylaws, subject to the rights, if any, of an officer under any contract of employment. Each officer shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and qualified or until his or her earlier resignation or removal. A failure to elect officers shall not dissolve or otherwise affect the Corporation.


5.3     SubordinateOfficers. The Board may appoint, or empower the chief executive officer of the Corporation, to appoint, such other officers and agents as the business of the Corporation may require. Each of such officers and agents shall hold office for such period, have such authority, and perform such duties as are provided in these bylaws or as the Board may from time to time determine.

5.4     Removal and Resignation ofOfficers. Any officer may be removed, either with or without cause, by an affirmative vote of the majority of the Board at any regular or special meeting of the Board or, except in the case of an officer appointed by the Board, by any officer upon whom such power of removal has been conferred by the Board.

Any officer may resign at any time by giving written notice to the Corporation. Any resignation shall take effect at the date of the receipt of that notice or at any later time specified in that notice. Unless otherwise specified in the notice of resignation, the acceptance of the resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. Any resignation is without prejudice to the rights, if any, of the Corporation under any contract to which the officer is a party.

5.5     Vacancies inOffices. Any vacancy occurring in any office of the Corporation shall be filled by the Board or as provided in Section 5.2.

5.6     Chairman of theBoard. The chairman of the Board shall be a member of the Board and, if present, preside at meetings of the Board and exercise and perform such other powers and duties as may from time to time be assigned to him or her by the Board or as may be prescribed by these bylaws.

The chairman shall be an Outside Director (as defined in the Certificate) and shall not hold any other office of the Corporation unless the appointment of the chairman is approved by two-thirds of the members of the Board then in office, provided, however, that if there is no chief executive officer or president of the Corporation as a result of the death, resignation or removal of such officer, then the chairman of the Board may also serve in an interim capacity as the chief executive officer of the Corporation until the Board shall appoint a new chief executive officer and, while serving in such interim capacity, shall have the powers and duties prescribed in Section 5.7 of these bylaws.

5.7     Chief ExecutiveOfficer. Subject to the control of the Board and any supervisory powers the Board may give to the chairman of the Board, the chief executive officer shall have general supervision, direction, and control of the business and affairs of the Corporation and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board are carried into effect. The chief executive officer shall, together with any president or presidents of the Corporation, also perform all duties incidental to this office that may be required by law and all such other duties as are properly required of this office by the Board of Directors. The chief executive officer shall serve as chairman of and preside at all meetings of the stockholders. In the absence of the chairman of the Board, the chief executive officer shall preside at all meetings of the Board.

5.8     Presidents. Subject to the control of the Board and any supervisory powers the Board may give to the chairman of the Board, any president or presidents of the Corporation shall, together with the chief executive officer, have general supervision, direction, and control of the business and affairs of the Corporation and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board are carried into effect. A president shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as from time to time may be prescribed for him or her by the Board, these bylaws, the chief executive officer, or the chairman of the Board.

5.9     VicePresidents. In the absence or disability of any president, the vice presidents, if any, in order of their rank as fixed by the Board or, if not ranked, a vice president designated by the Board, shall perform all the duties of a president. When acting as a president, the appropriate vice president shall have all the powers of, and be subject to all the restrictions upon, that president. The vice presidents shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as from time to time may be prescribed for them respectively by the Board, these bylaws, the chairman of the Board, the chief executive officer or, in the absence of a chief executive officer, any president.

5.10     Secretary. The secretary shall keep or cause to be kept, at the principal executive office of the Corporation or such other place as the Board may direct, a book of minutes of all meetings and actions of directors, committees of directors, and stockholders. The minutes shall show:

(a)     the time and place of each meeting;


(b)     whether regular or special (and, if special, how authorized and the notice given);

(c)     the names of those present at directors’ meetings or committee meetings;

(d)     the number of shares present or represented at stockholders’ meetings; and

(e)     the proceedings thereof.

The secretary shall keep, or cause to be kept, at the principal executive office of the Corporation or at the office of the Corporation’s transfer agent or registrar, as determined by resolution of the Board, a share register, or a duplicate share register showing:

(a)     the names of all stockholders and their addresses;

(b)     the number and classes of shares held by each;

(c)     the number and date of certificates evidencing such shares; and

(d)     the number and date of cancellation of every certificate surrendered for cancellation.

The secretary shall give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the stockholders and of the Board required to be given by law or by these bylaws. The secretary shall keep the seal of the Corporation, if one be adopted, in safe custody and shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board or by these bylaws.

5.11     Chief FinancialOfficer. The chief financial officer shall keep and maintain, or cause to be kept and maintained, adequate and correct books and records of accounts of the properties and business transactions of the Corporation, including accounts of its assets, liabilities, receipts, disbursements, gains, losses, capital, retained earnings and shares. The books of account shall at all reasonable times be open to inspection by any director.

The chief financial officer shall deposit all moneys and other valuables in the name and to the credit of the Corporation with such depositories as the Board may designate. The chief financial officer shall disburse the funds of the Corporation as may be ordered by the Board, shall render to the chief executive officer or, in the absence of a chief executive officer, any president and directors, whenever they request it, an account of all his or her transactions as chief financial officer and of the financial condition of the Corporation, and shall have other powers and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board or these bylaws.

The chief financial officer may be the treasurer of the Corporation.

5.12     Treasurer. The treasurer shall keep and maintain, or cause to be kept and maintained, adequate and correct books and records of accounts of the properties and business transactions of the Corporation, including accounts of its assets, liabilities, receipts, disbursements, gains, losses, capital, retained earnings and shares. The books of account shall at all reasonable times be open to inspection by any director.

The treasurer shall deposit all moneys and other valuables in the name and to the credit of the Corporation with such depositories as the Board may designate. The treasurer shall disburse the funds of the Corporation as may be ordered by the Board, shall render to the chief executive officer or, in the absence of a chief executive officer, any president and the directors, whenever they request it, an account of all his or her transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the Corporation, and shall have other powers and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board or these bylaws.

5.13     AssistantSecretary. The assistant secretary, or, if there is more than one, the assistant secretaries in the order determined by the Board (or if there be no such determination, then in the order of their election) shall, in the absence of the secretary or in the event of the secretary’s inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the secretary and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as may be prescribed by the Board or these bylaws.


5.14     AssistantTreasurer. The assistant treasurer, or, if there is more than one, the assistant treasurers, in the order determined by the Board (or if there be no such determination, then in the order of their election), shall, in the absence of the chief financial officer or treasurer or in the event of the chief financial officer’s or treasurer’s inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the chief financial officer or treasurer, as applicable, and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as may be prescribed by the Board or these bylaws.

5.15     Representation of Shares of OtherCorporations. The chairman of the Board, the chief executive officer, any president, any vice president, the treasurer, the secretary or assistant secretary of this Corporation, or any other person authorized by the Board, the chief executive officer, a president or a vice president, is authorized to vote, represent, and exercise on behalf of this Corporation all rights incident to any and all shares or other equity interests of any other Corporation or entity standing in the name of this Corporation. The authority granted herein may be exercised either by such person directly or by any other person authorized to do so by proxy or power of attorney duly executed by such person having the authority.

5.16     Authority and Duties ofOfficers. In addition to the foregoing authority and duties, all officers of the Corporation shall respectively have such authority and perform such duties in the management of the business of the Corporation as may be designated from time to time by the Board.

ARTICLE VI

RECORDS AND REPORTS

6.1     Maintenance and Inspection ofRecords. The Corporation shall, either at its principal executive office or at such place or places as designated by the Board, keep a record of its stockholders listing their names and addresses and the number and class of shares held by each stockholder, a copy of these bylaws, as may be amended to date, minute books, accounting books and other records.

Any such records maintained by the Corporation may be kept on, or by means of, or be in the form of, any information storage device or method, provided that the records so kept can be converted into clearly legible paper form within a reasonable time. The Corporation shall so convert any records so kept upon the request of any person entitled to inspect such records pursuant to the provisions of the DGCL. When records are kept in such manner, a clearly legible paper form produced from or by means of the information storage device or method shall be admissible in evidence, and accepted for all other purposes, to the same extent as an original paper form accurately portrays the record.

Any stockholder of record, in person or by attorney or other agent, shall, upon written demand under oath stating the purpose thereof, have the right during the usual hours for business to inspect for any proper purpose the Corporation’s stock ledger, a list of its stockholders, and its other books and records and to make copies or extracts therefrom. A proper purpose shall mean a purpose reasonably related to such person’s interest as a stockholder. In every instance where an attorney or other agent is the person who seeks the right to inspection, the demand under oath shall be accompanied by a power of attorney or such other writing that authorizes the attorney or other agent to so act on behalf of the stockholder. The demand under oath shall be directed to the Corporation at its registered office in Delaware or at its principal executive office.

6.2     Inspection byDirectors. Any director shall have the right to examine the Corporation’s stock ledger, a list of its stockholders, and its other books and records for a purpose reasonably related to his or her position as a director.

ARTICLE VII

GENERAL MATTERS

7.1     Checks; Drafts; Evidences ofIndebtedness. From time to time, the Board shall determine by resolution which person or persons may sign or endorse all checks, drafts, other orders for payment of money, notes or other evidences of indebtedness that are issued in the name of or payable to the Corporation, and only the persons so authorized shall sign or endorse those instruments.

7.2     Execution of Corporate Contracts andInstruments. Except as otherwise provided in these bylaws, the Board, or any officers of the Corporation authorized thereby, may authorize any officer or officers, or agent or agents, to enter into any contract or execute any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Corporation; such authority may be general or confined to specific instances.


7.3     Stock Certificates; Partly PaidShares. The shares of the Corporation shall be represented by certificates, provided that the Board may provide by resolution or resolutions that some or all of any or all classes or series of its stock shall be uncertificated shares. Any such resolution shall not apply to shares represented by a certificate until such certificate is surrendered to the Corporation. Notwithstanding the adoption of such a resolution by the Board, every holder of stock represented by certificates and upon request every holder of uncertificated shares shall be entitled to have a certificate signed by, or in the name of the Corporation by the chairman or vice-chairman of the Board, or any president or vice-president, and by the treasurer or an assistant treasurer, or the secretary or an assistant secretary of such Corporation representing the number of shares registered in certificate form. Any or all of the signatures on the certificate may be a facsimile. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate has ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if he or she were such officer, transfer agent or registrar at the date of issue.

The Corporation may issue the whole or any part of its shares as partly paid and subject to call for the remainder of the consideration to be paid therefor. Upon the face or back of each stock certificate issued to represent any such partly paid shares, and upon the books and records of the Corporation in the case of uncertificated partly paid shares, the total amount of the consideration to be paid therefor and the amount paid thereon shall be stated. Upon the declaration of any dividend on fully paid shares, the Corporation shall declare a dividend upon partly paid shares of the same class, but only upon the basis of the percentage of the consideration actually paid thereon.

7.4     Special Designation onCertificates. If the Corporation is authorized to issue more than one class of stock or more than one series of any class, then the powers, designations, preferences, and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights shall be set forth in full or summarized on the face or back of the certificate that the Corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock; provided, however, that, except as otherwise provided in Section 202 of the DGCL, in lieu of the foregoing requirements there may be set forth on the face or back of the certificate that the Corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock a statement that the Corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests the powers, designations, preferences, and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights.

7.5     LostCertificates. Except as provided in this Section 7.6, no new certificates for shares shall be issued to replace a previously issued certificate unless the latter is surrendered to the Corporation and cancelled at the same time. The Corporation may issue a new certificate of stock or uncertificated shares in the place of any certificate theretofore issued by it, alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, and the Corporation may require the owner of the lost, stolen or destroyed certificate, or such owner’s legal representative, to give the Corporation a bond sufficient to indemnify it against any claim that may be made against it on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of any such certificate or the issuance of such new certificate or uncertificated shares.

7.6     Construction;Definitions. Unless the context requires otherwise, the general provisions, rules of construction, and definitions in the DGCL shall govern the construction of these bylaws. Without limiting the generality of this provision, the singular number includes the plural, the plural number includes the singular, and the term “person” includes both a Corporation and a natural person.

7.7     Dividends. The Board, subject to any restrictions contained in either (i) the DGCL, or (ii) the Certificate, may declare and pay dividends upon the shares of its capital stock. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of the Corporation’s capital stock. The Board may set apart out of any of the funds of the Corporation available for dividends a reserve or reserves for any proper purpose and may abolish any such reserve.

7.8     FiscalYear. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be fixed by resolution of the Board and may be changed by the Board.

7.9     Seal. The Corporation may adopt a corporate seal, which shall be adopted and which may be altered by the Board. The Corporation may use the corporate seal by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed or affixed or in any other manner reproduced.


7.10     Transfer ofStock. Transfers of stock shall be made only upon the transfer books of the Corporation kept at an office of the Corporation or by transfer agents designated to transfer shares of the stock of the Corporation. Except where a certificate is issued in accordance with Section 7.5 of these bylaws, an outstanding certificate for the number of shares involved shall be surrendered for cancellation before a new certificate is issued therefore. Upon surrender to the Corporation or the transfer agent of the Corporation of a certificate for shares duly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignation or authority to transfer, it shall be the duty of the Corporation to issue a new certificate to the person entitled thereto, cancel the old certificate, and record the transaction in its books.

7.11     Stock TransferAgreements. The Corporation shall have power to enter into and perform any agreement with any number of stockholders of any one or more classes or series of stock of the Corporation to restrict the transfer of shares of stock of the Corporation of any one or more classes or series owned by such stockholders in any manner not prohibited by the DGCL.

7.12     Registered Stockholders. The Corporation:

(a)     shall be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a person registered on its books as the owner of shares to receive dividends and to vote as such owner;

(b)     shall be entitled to hold liable for calls and assessments on partly paid shares the person registered on its books as the owner of shares; and

(c)     shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or shares on the part of another person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of Delaware.

7.13     Waiver ofNotice. Whenever notice is required to be given under any provision of the DGCL, the Certificate or these bylaws, a written waiver, signed by the person entitled to notice, or a waiver by electronic transmission by the person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time of the event for which notice is to be given, shall be deemed equivalent to notice. Attendance of a person at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the person attends a meeting solely for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the stockholders need be specified in any written waiver of notice or any waiver by electronic transmission unless so required by the Certificate or these bylaws.

7.14     CharitableFoundation. The establishment by the Corporation of a charitable foundation will require Board approval, as will contributions by the Corporation to the foundation and disbursements by the foundation. The Board may delegate authority over the foundation to one or more persons who are not directors of the Corporation with the approval of two-thirds of the members of the Board.

ARTICLE VIII

NOTICE BY ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION

8.1     Notice by ElectronicTransmission. Without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given effectively to stockholders pursuant to the DGCL, the Certificate or these bylaws, any notice to stockholders given by the Corporation under any provision of the DGCL, the Certificate or these bylaws shall be effective if given by a form of electronic transmission consented to by the stockholder to whom the notice is given. Any such consent shall be revocable by the stockholder by written notice to the Corporation. Any such consent shall be deemed revoked if:

(a)     the Corporation is unable to deliver by electronic transmission two consecutive notices given by the Corporation in accordance with such consent; and

b)     such inability becomes known to the secretary or an assistant secretary of the Corporation or to the transfer agent, or other person responsible for the giving of notice.

However, the inadvertent failure to treat such inability as a revocation shall not invalidate any meeting or other action. Any notice given pursuant to the preceding paragraph shall be deemed given:

(a)     if by facsimile telecommunication, when directed to a number at which the stockholder has consented to receive notice;


(b)     if by electronic mail, when directed to an electronic mail address at which the stockholder has consented to receive notice;

(c)     if by a posting on an electronic network together with separate notice to the stockholder of such specific posting, upon the later of (A) such posting and (B) the giving of such separate notice; and

(d)     if by any other form of electronic transmission, when directed to the stockholder.

An affidavit of the secretary or an assistant secretary or of the transfer agent or other agent of the Corporation that the notice has been given by a form of electronic transmission shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein.

8.2     Definition Of ElectronicTransmission. An “electronic transmission” means any form of communication, not directly involving the physical transmission of paper, that creates a record that may be retained, retrieved, and reviewed by a recipient thereof, and that may be directly reproduced in paper form by such a recipient through an automated process.

8.3     Inapplicability. Notice by a form of electronic transmission shall not apply to Section 164 (failure to pay for stock; remedies), Section 296 (adjudication of claims; appeal), Section 311 (revocation of voluntary dissolution), Section 312 (renewal, revival, extension and restoration of certificate of in Corporation) or Section 324 (attachment of shares of stock) of the DGCL.

ARTICLE IX

INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

9.1     Power to Indemnify in Actions, Suits or Proceedings Other Than Those by or in the Right of theCorporation. Subject to Section 9.3 of this Article IX, the Corporation shall indemnify, to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL, as now or hereafter in effect, any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the Corporation) by reason of the fact that such person (or the legal representative of such person) is or was a director or officer of the Corporation or any predecessor of the Corporation, or is or was a director or officer of the Corporation serving at the request of the Corporation as a director or officer, employee or agent of another Corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe such person’s conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that such person’s conduct was unlawful.

9.2     Power to Indemnify in Actions, Suits or Proceedings by or in the Right of theCorporation. Subject to Section 9.3 of this Article IX, the Corporation shall indemnify, to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL, as now or hereafter in effect, any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the Corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that such person (or the legal representative of such person) is or was a director or officer of the Corporation or any predecessor of the Corporation, or is or was a director or officer of the Corporation serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another Corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation; except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the Corporation unless and only to the extent that the Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the Court of Chancery or such other court shall deem proper.


9.3     Authorization ofIndemnification. Any indemnification under this Article IX (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Corporation only as authorized in the specific case upon a determination that indemnification of the director or officer is proper in the circumstances because such person has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in Section 9.1 or Section 9.2 of this Article IX, as the case may be. Such determination shall be made, with respect to a person who is a director or officer at the time of such determination, (i) by a majority vote of the directors who are not parties to such action, suit or proceeding, even though less than a quorum, or (ii) by a committee of such directors designated by a majority vote of such directors, even though less than a quorum, or (iii) if there are no such directors, or if such directors so direct, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion or (iv) by the stockholders (but only if a majority of the directors who are not parties to such action, suit or proceeding, if they constitute a quorum of the board of directors, presents the issue of entitlement to indemnification to the stockholders for their determination). Such determination shall be made, with respect to former directors and officers, by any person or persons having the authority to act on the matter on behalf of the Corporation. To the extent, however, that a present or former director or officer of the Corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding described above, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, such person shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection therewith, without the necessity of authorization in the specific case.

9.4     Good FaithDefined. For purposes of any determination under Section 9.3 of this Article IX, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, a person shall be deemed to have acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, or, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, to have had no reasonable cause to believe such person’s conduct was unlawful, if such person’s action is based on the records or books of account of the Corporation or another enterprise, or on information supplied to such person by the officers of the Corporation or another enterprise in the course of their duties, or on the advice of legal counsel for the Corporation or another enterprise or on information or records given or reports made to the Corporation or another enterprise by an independent certified public accountant or by an appraiser or other expert selected with reasonable care by the Corporation or another enterprise. The term “another enterprise” as used in this Section 9.4 shall mean any other Corporation or any partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise of which such person is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent. The provisions of this Section 9.4 shall not be deemed to be exclusive or to limit in any way the circumstances in which a person may be deemed to have met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in Section 9.1 or 9.2 of this Article IX, as the case may be.

9.5     Indemnification by aCourt. Notwithstanding any contrary determination in the specific case under Section 9.3 of this Article IX, and notwithstanding the absence of any determination thereunder, any director or officer may apply to the Court of Chancery in the State of Delaware for indemnification to the extent otherwise permissible under Sections 9.1 and 9.2 of this Article IX. The basis of such indemnification by a court shall be a determination by such court that indemnification of the director or officer is proper in the circumstances because such person has met the applicable standards of conduct set forth in Section 9.1 or 9.2 of this Article IX, as the case may be. Neither a contrary determination in the specific case under Section 9.3 of this Article IX nor the absence of any determination thereunder shall be a defense to such application or create a presumption that the director or officer seeking indemnification has not met any applicable standard of conduct. Notice of any application for indemnification pursuant to this Section 9.5 shall be given to the Corporation promptly upon the filing of such application. If successful, in whole or in part, the director or officer seeking indemnification shall also be entitled to be paid the expense of prosecuting such application.

9.6     Expenses Payable inAdvance. To the fullest extent not prohibited by the DGCL, or by any other applicable law, expenses incurred by a person who is or was a director or officer in defending any civil, criminal, administrative or investigative action, suit or proceeding shall be paid by the Corporation in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding; provided, however, that if the DGCL requires, an advance of expenses incurred by any person in his or her capacity as a director or officer (and not in any other capacity) shall be made only upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such person to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be determined that such person is not entitled to be indemnified by the Corporation as authorized in this Article IX.


9.7     Non-Exclusivity of Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses. The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by or granted pursuant to this Article IX shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under the Certificate, any bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in such person’s official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, it being the policy of the Corporation that indemnification of the persons specified in Sections 9.1 and 9.2 of this Article IX shall be made to the fullest extent permitted by law. The provisions of this Article IX shall not be deemed to preclude the indemnification of any person who is not specified in Section 9.1 or 9.2 of this Article IX but whom the Corporation has the power or obligation to indemnify under the provisions of the DGCL, or otherwise. The Corporation is specifically authorized to enter into individual contracts with any or all of its directors, officers, employees or agents respecting indemnification and advances, to the fullest extent not prohibited by the DGCL, or by any other applicable law.

9.8     Insurance. To the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL or any other applicable law, the Corporation may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another Corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise against any liability asserted against such person and incurred by such person in any such capacity, or arising out of such person’s status as such, whether or not the Corporation would have the power or the obligation to indemnify such person against such liability under the provisions of this Article IX.

9.9     CertainDefinitions. For purposes of this Article IX, references to the “ Corporation” shall include, in addition to the resulting Corporation, any constituent Corporation (including any constituent of a constituent) absorbed in a consolidation or merger which, if its separate existence had continued, would have had power and authority to indemnify its directors or officers, so that any person who is or was a director or officer of such constituent Corporation, or is or was a director or officer of such constituent Corporation serving at the request of such constituent Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another Corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise, shall stand in the same position under the provisions of this Article IX with respect to the resulting or surviving Corporation as such person would have with respect to such constituent Corporation if its separate existence had continued. For purposes of this Article IX, references to “fines” shall include any excise taxes assessed on a person with respect to an employee benefit plan; and references to “serving at the request of the Corporation” shall include any service as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation which imposes duties on, or involves services by, such director or officer with respect to an employee benefit plan, its participants or beneficiaries; and a person who acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries of an employee benefit plan shall be deemed to have acted in a manner “not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation” as referred to in this Article IX.

9.10     Survival of Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses. The rights to indemnification and advancement of expenses conferred by this Article IX shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director or officer and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, administrators and other personal and legal representatives of such a person.

9.11     Limitation OnIndemnification. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Article IX to the contrary, except for proceedings to enforce rights to indemnification (which shall be governed by Section 9.5 hereof), the Corporation shall not be obligated to indemnify any director or officer in connection with a proceeding (or part thereof) initiated by such person unless such proceeding (or part thereof) was authorized or consented to by the board of directors of the Corporation.

9.12     Indemnification of Employees andAgents. The Corporation may, to the extent authorized from time to time by the board of directors, provide rights to indemnification and to the advancement of expenses to employees and agents of the Corporation similar to those conferred in this Article IX to directors and officers of the Corporation.

9.13     Effect of Amendment orRepeal. Neither any amendment or repeal of any Section of this Article IX, nor the adoption of any provision of the Certificate or the bylaws inconsistent with this Article IX, shall adversely affect any right or protection of any director, officer, employee or other agent established pursuant to this Article IX existing at the time of such amendment, repeal or adoption of an inconsistent provision, including without limitation by eliminating or reducing the effect of this Article IX, for or in respect of any act, omission or other matter occurring, or any action or proceeding accruing or arising (or that, but for this Article IX, would accrue or arise), prior to such amendment, repeal or adoption of an inconsistent provision.

ARTICLE X

AMENDMENTS

The bylaws of the Corporation may be adopted, amended or repealed by a majority of the voting power of the stockholders entitled to vote; provided, however, that the Corporation may, in its Certificate, also confer the power to adopt, amend or repeal bylaws upon the Board. The fact that such power has been so conferred upon the Board shall not divest the stockholders of the power, nor limit their power to adopt, amend or repeal bylaws.

* * * * *


DPW HOLDINGS, INC.

a Delaware Corporation

CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION OF BYLAWS

The undersigned hereby certifies that he or she is the duly elected, qualified, and acting Chief Executive Officer of DPW Holdings, Inc., a Delaware Corporation, and that the foregoing bylaws, comprising twenty (20) pages, were adopted as the Corporation’s bylaws as of September __, 2017 by the Corporation’s board of directors on September __, 2017.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his or her hand this __ day of September, 2017.

/s/                      

Amos Kohn

Chief Executive Officer


Appendix F

DPW

20172021 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

(effective ___________, 2017,July 6, 2021, subject to stockholder approval)

 

1

1             General

 

1.1       Purpose. The purposes of the DPW 2017Ault Global Holdings, Inc. 2021 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) is to promote the interests of DPWAult Global Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) and the stockholders of the Company by providing (i) executive officers and other employees of the Company and its Subsidiaries (as defined below), (ii) certain advisors who perform services for the Company and its Subsidiaries and (iii) non-employee members of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) with appropriate incentives and rewards to encourage them to enter into and continue in the employ and service of the Company and to acquire a proprietary interest in the long-term success of the Company, as well as to reward the performance of these individuals in fulfilling their personal responsibilities for long-range and annual achievements.

 

1.2Effective Date and Term. The Plan will become effective upon the date it is approved by the stockholders of the Company (the “Effective Date”). Unless terminated earlier by the Committee, the Plan will expire on the tenth (10th) anniversary of the Effective Date.

 

1.3       Definitions. Capitalized terms in the Plan, unless defined elsewhere in the Plan, shall be defined as set forth below:

162(m) Term. The term “162(m) Term” means the period starting on the date when the Company’s stockholders first approve this Plan and ending on the date of the first meeting of the Company’s stockholders that occurs in the fifth year following the year in which the Company’s stockholders first approve this Plan.

 

1934 Act. The term “1934 Act” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder and any successor thereto.

 

Affiliated Company. The term “Affiliated Company” means any company, partnership, association, organization or other entity controlled by, controlling or under common control with the Company.

 

Award. The term “Award” means any award or benefit granted under the Plan, including, without limitation, Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units and Other Stock-Based Awards.

 

Award Agreement. The term “Award Agreement” means a written or electronic Award grant agreement under the Plan.

 

Change of Control. The term “Change of Control” shall be deemed to occur if and when:

 

(i)

any person, including a “person”“person” as such term is used in SectionSections 13(d) and 14(d)(2) of the 1934 Act (a “Person”), is or becomes a beneficial owner (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 under the 1934 Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities;

 

(ii)

individuals who, as of the Effective Date, constitute the Board (the Incumbent Board”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective Date whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual were a member of the Incumbent Board, but excluding for this purpose any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of either an actual or threatened election contest (as such terms are used in Rule 14a-11 of Regulation 14A promulgated under the 1934 Act) or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board;

 

(iii)

all or substantially all of the assets of the Company are sold, transferred or distributed, or the Company is dissolved or liquidated; or

 

(iv)

a reorganization, merger, consolidation or other corporate transaction involving the Company (a Transaction”) is consummated, in each case, with respect to which the stockholders of the Company immediately prior to such Transaction do not, immediately after the Transaction, own more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company or other corporation resulting from such Transaction in substantially the same respective proportions as such stockholders’ ownership of the voting power of the Company immediately before such Transaction.


 

Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other provision of this Plan, the term Change of Control shall not include a sale of assets, merger or other transaction effected exclusively for the purpose of changing the domicile of the Company. For the avoidance of doubt, solely with respect to any Award that constitutes “deferred“deferred compensation” subject to Section 409A of the Code and that is payable on account of a Change of Control (including any installments or stream of payments that are accelerated on account of a Change of Control), a Change of Control shall occur only if such event also constitutes a “change in the ownership”,ownership,” “change in effective control”,control,” and/or a “change in the ownership of a substantial portion of assets” of the Company as those terms are defined under Treasury Regulation §1.409A-3(i)(5), but only to the extent necessary to establish a time or form of payment that complies with Section 409A of the Code, without altering the definition of Change of Control for purposes of determining whether a Grantee's rights to such Award become vested or otherwise unconditional upon the Change in Control.

 

Code. The term “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. A reference to any provision of the Code shall include reference to any successor provision of the Code.

 

Committee. The term “Committee” means the committee of the Board described in Section 2 hereof and any sub-committee established by such Committee pursuant to Section 2.4.2.4 hereof.

 

Covered Employee. The term “Covered Employee” means an Employee who is, or who is anticipated to become, between the time of grant and payment of the Award, a “covered employee,” as such term is defined in Section 162(m)(3) of the Code (or any successor section thereof).

 

Disability. The term “Disability” means “Disability” as defined in any Award Agreement to which the Grantee is a party.

 

Eligible Grantee. The term “Eligible Grantee” shall mean any Employee, Non-Employee Director or Key Advisor, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

 

Employee. The term “Employee” means an active employee of the Company or a Subsidiary, but excluding any person who is classified by the Company or a Subsidiary as a “contractor” or “consultant,” no matter how characterized by the Internal Revenue Service, other governmental agency or a court, or any employee who is not actively employed, as determined by the Committee. Any change of characterization of an individual by the Internal Revenue Service or any court or government agency shall have no effect upon the classification of an individual as an Employee for purposes of this Plan, unless the Committee determines otherwise.

 

Fair Market Value. For purposes of determining the “Fair Market Value” of a share of Stock as of any date, the “Fair Market Value” as of that date shall be, unless otherwise determined by the Committee, the closing sale price during regular trading hours of the Stock on the date on the principal securities market in which shares of Stock is then traded; or, if there were no trades on that date, the closing sale price during regular trading hours of the Stock on the first trading day prior to that date. If the Stock is not publicly traded at the time a determination of Fair Market Value is required to be made hereunder, the determination of such amount shall be made by the Committee in such manner as it deems appropriate.

 

Grantee. The term “Grantee” means an Employee, Non-Employee Director or Key Advisor of the Company or a Subsidiary who has been granted an Award under the Plan.

 

ISO. The term “ISO” means any Option intended to be and designated as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.

 

Key Advisor. The term “Key Advisor” means a consultant or other key advisor who performs services for the Company or a Subsidiary.

 

Non-Employee Director. The term “Non-Employee Director” means a member of the Board who is not an Employee.

 

NQSO. The term “NQSO” means any Option that is not designated as an ISO, or which is designated by the Committee as an ISO but which subsequently fails or ceases to qualify as an ISO.

 

Option. The term “Option” means a right, granted to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(i), hereof, to purchase shares of Stock. An Option may be either an ISO or an NQSO.

 

Other Stock-Based Award. The term “Other Stock-Based Award” means a right or other interest granted to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(v) of the Planhereof that may be denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, or related to, Stock, including but not limited to (i) unrestricted Stock awarded as a bonus or upon the attainment of Performance Goals or otherwise as permitted under the Plan, and (ii) a right granted to an Eligible Grantee to acquire Stock from the Company containing terms and conditions prescribed by the Committee.


 

Performance Award. The term “Performance Award” means a grant made pursuant to Section 4.2(viii) hereof, the amount and settlement of which is contingent on the achievement of specific Performance Goals during a Performance Period, determined using a specific Performance Measure, all as specified in the related Award Agreement. Performance Awards may be granted in the form of Stock Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, and/or Other Stock-Based Awards.

Performance Goals. The term “Performance Goals” means performance goals based on the attainment on an absolute or relative basis by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company (or any division or business unit of any such entity), or any two or more of the foregoing, of performance goals pre-established by the Committee in its sole discretion, based on one or more of the following criteria (if applicable, any performance criteria that are financial metrics, may be determined in accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) or may be adjusted when established to include or exclude any items otherwise includable or excludable under GAAP): (i) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified percentage increase in, revenues, earnings, income before taxes and extraordinary items, net income, operating income, earnings before or after deduction for all or any portion of income tax, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization or a combination of any or all of the foregoing; (ii) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax profits including, without limitation, that attributable to continuing and/or other operations; (iii) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, operational cash flow; (iv) the achievement of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in, all or a portion of, the Company’s bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations of the Company, which may be calculated net of such cash balances and/or other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Committee; (v) earnings per share or the attainment of a specified percentage increase in earnings per share or earnings per share from continuing operations; (vi) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in return on capital employed or return on invested capital; (vii) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a percentage increase in, after-tax or pre-tax return on stockholders’ equity; (viii) the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase in, economic value added targets based on a cash flow return on investment formula; (ix) the attainment of certain target levels in, or specified increases in, the fair market value of the shares of the Company’s common stock; (x) the growth in the value of an investment in the Company’s common stock; (xi) the attainment of a certain level of, reduction of, or other specified objectives with regard to limiting the level in or increase in, all or a portion of controllable expenses or costs or other expenses or costs; (xii) gross or net sales, revenue and growth of sales revenue (either before or after cost of goods, selling and general administrative expenses, research and development expenses and any other expenses or interest); (xiii) total stockholder return; (xiv) return on assets or net assets; (xv) return on sales; (xvi) operating profit or net operating profit; (xvii) operating margin; (xviii) gross or net profit margin; (xix) cost reductions or savings; (xx) productivity; (xxi) operating efficiency; (xxii) working capital; (xxiii) market share; (xxiv) customer satisfaction; and (xxv) to the extent that an Award is not intended to comply with Section 162(m) of the Code, other measures of performance selected by the Board. Any of the above Performance Goals may be compared to the performance of a selected group of comparison companies, or a published or special index that the Committee, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate, or as compared to various stock market indices. Subject to the limitations in Section 4.2 hereof, the Committee in its sole discretion may designate additional business criteria on which the Performance Goals may be based or adjust, or modify or amend the aforementioned business criteria. The relative weights of the criteria that comprise the Performance Goals shall be determined by the Committee in its sole discretion. In establishing the Performance Goals for a performance period, the Committee may establish different Performance Goals for individual Grantees or groups of Grantees. Subject to the limitations in Section 4.2(ix)4.2(viii)(d), hereof, the Committee in its sole discretion shall have the authority to make equitable adjustments to the Performance Goals in recognition of unusual or non-recurring events affecting the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company or the financial statements of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company, in response to changes in applicable laws or regulations, including changes in generally accepted accounting principles or practices, or to account for items of gain, loss or expense determined to be extraordinary or unusual in nature or infrequent in occurrence or related to the disposal of a segment of a business, as applicable. Performance Goals may include a threshold level of performance below which no Award will be earned, a level of performance at which the target amount of an Award will be earned and a level of performance at which the maximum amount of the Award will be earned.

 

3

Performance Measure. The term “Performance Measure” means, with respect to a Performance Award, one or more of the criteria identified at Section 4.2(viii) hereof selected by the Committee for the purpose of establishing, and measuring attainment of, Performance Goals for a Performance Period in respect of such grant, as provided in the related Award Agreement. For purposes of clarity, the Committee may establish a Performance Measure on a regional or jurisdictional basis, Subsidiary by Subsidiary basis, product-line basis, consolidated Company basis, or any other manner that it determines appropriate in its sole discretion.

Performance Period. The term “Performance Period” means, with respect to a Performance Award, the one or more periods of time, which may be of varying and overlapping durations, as the Committee may select during which the attainment of one or more Performance Goals will be measured.

Restricted Stock. The term “Restricted Stock” means an Award of shares of Stock to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(iii) hereof that may be subject to certain restrictions and to a risk of forfeiture. Stock issued upon the exercise of Options or SARs is not “Restricted Stock” for purposes of the plan, even if subject to post-issuance transfer restrictions or forfeiture conditions. When Restricted Stock vests, it ceases to be “Restricted Stock” for purposes of the Plan.

 

Restricted Stock Unit. The term “Restricted Stock Unit” means a right granted to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(iv) hereof to receive Stock or cash at the end of a specified deferral period, which right may be conditioned on the satisfaction of specified performance or other criteria.

 

Retirement. The term “Retirement” means any termination of employment or service as an Employee, Non-Employee Director or Key Advisor as a result of retirement in good standing under the rules of the Company or a Subsidiary, as applicable, then in effect.

 

Rule 16b-3. The term “Rule 16b-3” means Rule 16b-3 under Section 16 of the 1934 Act, as from time to time in effect promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission, under Section 16 of the 1934 Act, including any successor to such Rule.

Section 162(m) Grandfathered Award. The term “Section 162(m) Grandfathered Award” means an Award that is intended to constitute “qualified performance-based compensation” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code and that is eligible for transition relief from the changes to Section 162(m) provided under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

 

Stock. The term “Stock” means shares of theClass A common stock, par value $0.001 per share, of the Company.

 

Stock Appreciation Right or SAR. The term “Stock Appreciation Right” or “SAR” means the right, granted to an Eligible Grantee under Section 4.2(ii), hereof, to be paid an amount measured by the appreciation in the Fair Market Value of Stock from the date of grant to the date of exercise of the right.

 

Subsidiary. The term “Subsidiary” means any present or future subsidiary corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(f) of the Code, and any present or future business venture designated by the Committee in which the Company has a significant interest, including, without limitation, any subsidiary corporation in which the Company has at least a 50% ownership interest, as determined in the discretion of the Committee.

 

Substitute Award. The term “Substitute Award” means an Award granted or Stock issued by the Company in assumption of, or in substitution or exchange for, an award previously granted, or the right or obligation to make a future award, in all cases by a company acquired by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or with which the Company or a Subsidiary combines.

 

4

 

2

2             Administration

 

2.1       Committee. The authority to manage the operation of and administer the Plan shall be vested in a committee (the “Committee”) in accordance with this Section 2. The Committee shall be selected by the Board, and shall consist solely of two or more members of the Board who are non-employee directors within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 and, to the extent the administration of an Award relates to a Section 162(m) Grandfathered Award, are outside directors within the meaning of Code Section 162(m). of the Code. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, the Company’s Compensation Committee shall be designated as the “Committee” hereunder.

 

2.2Powers of the Committee. The Committee’s administration of the Plan shall be subject to the following:

 

(i)

Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee will have the authority and discretion to select from among the Eligible Grantees those persons who shall receive Awards, to determine the time or times of receipt, to determine the types of Awards and the number of shares covered by the Awards, and to establish the terms, conditions, performance criteria, restrictions, and other provisions of such Awards;

 

(ii)

The Committee will have the authority and discretion to interpret the Plan, to establish, amend, and rescind any rules and regulations relating to the Plan, to determine the terms and provisions of any Award Agreement made pursuant to the Plan, and to make all other determinations that may be necessary or advisable for the administration of the Plan;

 

(iii)

Any interpretation of the Plan by the Committee and any decision made by it under the Plan is final and binding on all persons; and

 

(iv)

In managing the operation of and administering the Plan, the Committee shall take action in a manner that conforms to the articles of incorporation and by-laws of the Company, and applicable state corporate law.

 

2.3       Prohibition Againstagainst Repricing. Other than pursuant to Section 3.3,3.4 hereof, the Committee shall not, without the approval of the Company’s stockholders, (a) lower the option price per share of an Option or SAR after it is granted, (b) cancel an Option or SAR when the exercise price per Share exceeds the Fair Market Value of one share in exchange for cash or another Award (other than in connection with a Change in Control), or (c) take any other action with respect to an Option or SAR that would be treated as a repricing under the rules and regulations of the principal U.S. national securities exchange on which the Company’s shares are then listed.

 

2.4       Delegation of Authority. To the extent not inconsistent with applicable law, the rules of any national securities exchange that may in the future apply to the Company, or other provisions of the Plan, the Committee may, at any time, allocate all or any portion of its responsibilities and powers to any one or more of its members or, with respect to Awards made to Employees other than executive officers, the Chief Executive Officer, including without limitation, the power to designate Grantees hereunder and determine the amount, timing and terms of Awards hereunder. Any such allocation or delegation may be revoked by the Committee at any time.

 

2.5       Indemnification. Each person who is or shall have been a member of the Committee, or the Board, shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against and from any loss, cost, liability or expense that may be imposed upon or reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with or resulting from any claim, action, suit or proceeding to which he or she may be a party or in which he or she may be involved by reason of any action taken in good faith or failure to act in good faith under the Plan and against and from any and all amounts paid by him or her in settlement thereof, with the Company’s approval, or paid by him or her in satisfaction of any judgment in any such action, suit or proceeding against him or her, provided he or she shall give the Company an opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend the same before he or she undertakes to handle and defend it on his or her own behalf. The foregoing right of indemnification shall be in addition to any other rights of indemnification or elimination of liability to which such persons may be entitled under the Company’s articles of incorporation or by-laws, as a matter of law, or otherwise, or any power that the Company may have to indemnify them or hold them harmless.

 

2.6       Minimum Vesting Requirement for Full-Value Awards. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, Grantees of full-value Awards (i.e., Awards other than Options and SARs), will be required to continue to provide services to the Company (or an Affiliated Company) for not less than one-year following the date of grant in order for any such full-value Awards to fully or partially vest (other than in case of death, Disability or a Change of Control). Notwithstanding the foregoing, up to five percent (5%) of the available shares of Stock authorized for issuance under the Plan pursuant to Section 3.1 hereof may provide for vesting of full-value Awards, partially or in full, in less than one-year.

 

3

Available Shares of Stock under the Plan

5

3             Available Shares of Stock under the Plan

 

3.1       Shares Available for Awards. Subject to the adjustments described in Section 3 herein, the maximum number of shares of Stock reserved for the grant of Awards under the Plan shall be 2,000,000.7,500,000. Any shares of Stock that are subject to Options or SARs or any type of Award shall be counted against this limit as one (1) share for every one (1) share granted, and any shares of Stock that are subject to Awards other than Options or SARs shall be counted against this limit as 1.25 shares for every one (1) share granted.


 

3.2       Forfeited, Cancelled and Expired Awards. Awards granted under the Plan that are forfeited, expire or are canceled or settled without issuance of Stock shall not count against the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan as set forth in Section 3.1 hereof and shall be available for future Awards under the Plan. Any Stock that again becomes available for Awards under the Plan pursuant to this Section 3.2 shall be added as (i) one (1) share for every one (1) share subject to Options, SARs or SARsany other type of Award granted under the Plan or options, and (ii) as 1.25 shares for every one (1) share subject to Awards other than Options or Stock Appreciation Rights granted under the Plan.

 

3.3Prohibition on Share Recycling. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, any and all Stock that is (i) withheld or tendered in payment of an Option exercise price; (ii) withheld by the Company or tendered by the Grantee to satisfy any tax withholding obligation with respect to any Award; (iii) covered by a SAR (to the extent that it is settled in Stock, without regard to the number of shares of Stock that are actually issued to the Grantee upon exercise); (iv) reacquired by the Company on the open market or otherwise using cash proceeds from the exercise of Options, shall not be added to the maximum number of shares of Stock that may be issued under the Plan as set forth in Section 3.1.3.1 hereof.

 

3.4       Adjustments. In the event of any change in the Company’s capital structure, including but not limited to a change in the number of shares of Stock outstanding, on account of (i) any stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock split or any similar equity restructuring, or (ii) any combination or exchange of equity securities, merger, consolidation, recapitalization, reorganization, or divesture or any other similar event affecting the Company’s capital structure, to reflect such change in the Company’s capital structure, the Committee shall make appropriate equitable adjustments to (a) the maximum number of shares of Stock that may be issued under the Plan as set forth in Section 3.1 hereof, (b) the number of shares of Stock issuable upon outstanding Awards, and (c) any individual Award limitations or restrictions, as applicable. In the event of any extraordinary dividend, divestiture or other distribution (other than ordinary cash dividends) of assets to stockholders, or any transaction or event described above, to the extent necessary to prevent the enlargement or diminution of the rights of Grantees, the Committee shall make appropriate equitable adjustments to the number or kind of shares subject to an outstanding Award, the exercise price applicable to an outstanding Award, and/or a Performance Goals. Any adjustments under this Section 3.33.4 shall be consistent with Section 409A or Section 424 of the Code, to the extent applicable, and made in a manner that does not adversely affect the exemption provided pursuant to Rule 16b-3 or qualification under Section 162(m) of the Code, to the extent each may be applicable. The Company shall give each Grantee notice of an adjustment to an Award hereunder and, upon notice, such adjustment shall be final, binding and conclusive for all purposes. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee shall decline to adjust any Award made to a Grantee if such adjustment would violate applicable law.

 

3.5Fractional Shares. The Company shall not be obligated to issue any fractional shares of Stock in settlement of Awards granted under the Plan. Except as otherwise provided in an Award Agreement or determined by the Committee, (i) the total number of shares issuable pursuant to the exercise, vesting or earning of an Award shall be rounded down to the nearest whole share, and (ii) no fractional shares shall be issued.  The Committee may, in its discretion, determine that a fractional share shall be settled in cash.

 

3.6       Substitute Awards; Plans of Acquired Companies. Substitute Awards shall not count against the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan as set forth in Section 3.1.3.1 hereof. In addition, shares of Stock issued in connection with awards that are assumed, converted or substituted as a result of the acquisition of another company by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company (including by way of merger, combination or similar transaction) will not count against the number of shares of Stock that may be issued under the Plan. Available shares under a stockholder-approved plan of an acquired company (as appropriately adjusted to reflect the transaction) may be used for Awards under the Plan and do not reduce the maximum number of shares available for grant under the Plan, subject to applicable stock exchange requirements.

 

4

Awards

6

4             Awards

 

4.1       General. The term of each Award shall be for such period as may be determined by the Committee, subject to the limitations set forth below. Subject to the terms of the Plan and any applicable Award Agreement, payments to be made by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company upon the grant, maturation, or exercise of an Award may be made in such forms as the Committee shall determine at the date of grant or thereafter, including, without limitation, cash, Stock, or other property. In addition to the foregoing, the Committee may impose on any Award or the exercise thereof, at the date of grant, such additional terms and conditions not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan, including, but not limited to forfeiture and clawback provisions, as the Committee shall determine; provided, however, that any such terms and conditions shall not be inconsistent with Section 409A of the Code.

 

4.2       Types of Awards. The Committee is authorized to grant the Awards described in this Section 4.2, under such terms and conditions as deemed by the Committee to be consistent with the purposes of the Plan. Such Awards may be granted with value and payment contingent upon Performance Goals. Each Award shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement containing such terms and conditions applicable to such Award as the Committee shall determine.


(i)

Options. The Committee is authorized to grant Options to Grantees on the following terms and conditions:

 

a.

Type of Award. The Award Agreement evidencing an Option shall designate the Option as either an ISO or an NQSO, as determined in the discretion of the Committee. At the time of the grant of Options, the Committee may place restrictions on the exercisability or vesting of Options that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year.

 

b.

Exercise Price. The exercise price of each Option granted under this Section 4.2 shall be established by the Committee or shall be determined by a method established by the Committee at the time the Option is granted; provided, however, that the exercise price shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock on the date of grant of the Award. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the exercise price of any Substitute Awards may be issued at any such price as the Committee determines necessary in order to preserve for such newly Eligible Grantee the economic value of all or a portion of such acquired entity award. No dividends or dividend equivalents will be paid on shares of Stock subject to an Option.

 

c.

Exercise. Upon satisfaction of the applicable conditions relating to vesting and exercisability, as determined by the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement, and upon provision for the payment in full of the exercise price and applicable taxes due, the Grantee shall be entitled to exercise the Option and receive the number of shares of Stock issuable in connection with the Option exercise provided, however, that no Option may be exercised more than ten years after its grant date. Except as set forth in Section 4.3 hereof, no NQSO granted hereunder may be exercised after the earlier of (A) the expiration of the NQSO or (B) unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award Agreement, ninety days after the severance of an NQSO holder’s employment or service with the Company or any Subsidiary. The shares issued in connection with the Option exercise may be subject to such conditions and restrictions as the Committee may determine, from time to time. An Option may be exercised by any method as may be permitted by the Committee from time to time, including but not limited to any “net exercise” or other “cashless” exercise method.

 

d.

Restrictions Relating to ISOs. In addition to being subject to the terms and conditions of this Section 4.2(i), ISOs shall comply with all other requirements under Section 422 of the Code. Accordingly, ISOs may be granted only to Eligible Grantees who are employees (as described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.421-7(h)) of the Company or of any “Parent Corporation” (as defined in Code Section 424(e)) of the Code) or of any “Subsidiary Corporation” (as defined in Code Section 424(f)) of the Code) on the date of grant. The aggregate Fair Market Value (determined as of the time the ISO is granted) of the Stock with respect to which ISOs (under all option plans of the Company and of any Parent Corporation and of any Subsidiary Corporation) are exercisable for the first time by an Eligible Grantee during any calendar year shall not exceed $100,000. ISOs shall not be transferable by the Eligible Grantee otherwise than by will or the laws of descent and distribution and shall be exercisable, during the Eligible Grantee's lifetime, only by such Eligible Grantee. The Committee shall not grant ISOs to any Employee who, at the time the ISO is granted, owns stock possessing (after the application of the attribution rules of Section 424(d) of the Code) more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting stock of the Company or of any Parent Corporation or of any Subsidiary Corporation, unless the exercise price of the ISO is fixed at not less than one hundred and ten percent (110%) of the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date of grant and the exercise of such ISO is prohibited by its terms after the fifth (5th) anniversary of the ISO's date of grant. In addition, no ISO shall be issued to an Eligible Grantee in tandem with a NQSO issued to such Eligible Grantee in accordance with Treasury Regulation Section 14a.422A-1, Q/A-39.

 

(ii)

SARs. The Committee is authorized to grant SARs to Grantees on the following terms and conditions:

 

a.

In General. SARs may be granted independently or in tandem with an Option at the time of grant of the related Option. An SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be exercisable only to the extent the underlying Option is exercisable. Payment of an SAR may be made in cash, Stock, or a combination of the foregoing, as specified in the Award Agreement or determined in the sole discretion of the Committee. At the time of the grant of SARs, the Committee may place restrictions on the exercisability or vesting of SARs that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year.

 

b.

Term and Exercisability of SARs. SARs shall be exercisable over the exercise period at such times and upon such conditions as the Committee may determine, as reflected in the Award Agreement; provided, however, that no SAR may be exercised more than ten years after its grant date. Except as set forth in Section 4.3 hereof, no SAR granted hereunder may be exercised after the earlier of (A) the expiration of the SAR or (B) unless otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award Agreement, ninety days after the severance of an SAR holder’s employment or service with the Company or any Subsidiary.

 

c.

Payment. An SAR shall confer on the Grantee a right to receive an amount with respect to each share of Stock subject thereto, upon exercise thereof, equal to the excess of (A) the Fair Market Value of one share of Stock on the date of exercise over (B) the grant price of the SAR (which in the case of an SAR granted in tandem with an Option shall be equal to the exercise price of the underlying Option, and which in the case of any other SAR shall be such price as the Committee may determine but in no event shall be less than the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock on the date of grant of such SAR). An SAR may be exercised by giving written notice of such exercise to the Committee or its designated agent. No dividends or dividend equivalents will be paid on shares of Stock subject to an SAR.

 


(iii)

Restricted Stock. The Committee is authorized to grant Restricted Stock to Grantees on the following terms and conditions:

 

a.

Issuance and Restrictions. Restricted Stock shall be subject to such restrictions on transferability and other restrictions, if any, as the Committee may impose at the date of grant, which restrictions may lapse separately or in combination at such times, under such circumstances, in such installments, or otherwise, as the Committee may determine. The Committee may place restrictions on Restricted Stock that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year. Except to the extent restricted under the Award Agreement relating to the Restricted Stock, a Grantee granted Restricted Stock shall have all of the rights of a stockholder including, without limitation, the right to vote Restricted Stock and the right to receive dividends thereon.

 

b.

Certificates for Stock. Restricted Stock granted under the Plan may be evidenced in such manner as the Committee shall determine. If certificates representing Restricted Stock are registered in the name of the Grantee, such certificates shall bear an appropriate legend referring to the terms, conditions, and restrictions applicable to such Restricted Stock, and the Company may retain physical possession of the certificate.

 

c.

Dividends. Except to the extent restricted under the applicable Award Agreement, cash dividends paid on Restricted Stock shall be paid at the dividend payment date subject to no restriction. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, Stock distributed in connection with a stock split or stock dividend shall be subject to the transfer restrictions, forfeiture risks and vesting conditions to the same extent as the Restricted Stock with respect to which such Stock or other property has been distributed. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may not provide for the current payment of dividends for Restricted Stock subject to Performance Goals; for such Awards, dividends may accrue but shall not be payable unless and until the Award vests upon satisfaction of the applicable Performance Goals and all other applicable conditions to vesting.

 

(iv)

Restricted Stock Units. The Committee is authorized to grant Restricted Stock Units to Grantees, subject to the following terms and conditions:

 

a.

Conditions to Vesting. At the time of the grant of Restricted Stock Units, the Committee may place restrictions on Restricted Stock Units that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year.

 

b.

Benefit uponupon Vesting. Unless otherwise provided in an Award Agreement, upon the vesting of a Restricted Stock Unit, there shall be delivered to the Grantee, within 30 days of the date on which such Award (or any portion thereof) vests, the number of shares of Stock equal to the number of Restricted Stock Units becoming so vested.

 

c.

Dividend Equivalents. To the extent provided in an Award Agreement, subject to the requirements of Section 409A of the Code, an Award of Restricted Stock Units may provide the Grantee with the right to receive dividend equivalent payments with respect to Stock subject to the Award (both before and after the Stock subject to the Award is earned, vested, or acquired), which payments may be either made currently or credited to an account for the Grantee, and may be settled in cash or Stock, as determined by the Committee. Any such settlements and any such crediting of dividend equivalents may, at the time of grant of the Restricted Stock Unit, be made subject to the transfer restrictions, forfeiture risks, vesting and conditions of the Restricted Stock Units and subject to such other conditions, restrictions and contingencies as the Committee shall establish at the time of grant of the Restricted Stock Unit, including the reinvestment of such credited amounts in Stock equivalents, provided that all such conditions, restrictions and contingencies shall comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code. Notwithstanding the foregoing in this Section 4.2(iv)(c), dividend equivalents may accrue on unearned Restricted Stock Units subject to Performance Goals but shall not be payable unless and until the applicable Performance Goals are met and certified.

 

(v)

Other Stock-Based Awards. The Committee is authorized to grant Awards to Grantees in the form of Other Stock-Based Awards, as deemed by the Committee to be consistent with the purposes of the Plan. At the time of the grant of Other Stock-Based Awards, the Committee may place restrictions on the payout or vesting of Other Stock-Based Awards that shall lapse, in whole or in part, upon the attainment of Performance Goals; provided that such Performance Goals shall relate to periods of performance of at least one fiscal year. The Committee shall determine the terms and conditions of such Awards at the date of grant. Other Stock-Based Awards may not be granted with the right to receive dividend equivalent payments.

 


(vi)

Settlement of Options and SARs. Shares of Stock delivered pursuant to the exercise of an Option or SAR shall be subject to such conditions, restrictions and contingencies as the Committee may establish in the applicable Award Agreement. Settlement of SARs may be made in shares of Stock (valued at their Fair Market Value at the time of exercise), in cash, or in a combination thereof, as determined in the discretion of the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement. The Committee, in its discretion, may impose such conditions, restrictions and contingencies with respect to shares of Stock acquired pursuant to the exercise of an Option or an SAR as the Committee determines to be desirable.

 

(vii)

Vesting; Additional Terms. Subject to Section 2.6, and except as provided in Section 4.3, hereof, other than Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Other Stock-Based Awards conditioned upon the attainment of Performance Goals that relate to performance periods of at least one fiscal year, Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Other Stock-Based Awards granted hereunder shall vest as determined by the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement. The term of any Award granted under the Plan will not exceed ten years from the date of grant.

 

(viii)

Qualified Performance-Based Compensation.

 

a.

The Committee may determine that RestrictedRestricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Other Stock-Based Awards granted to a Covered Employee shall be considered “qualified performance-based compensation” under section 162(m) of the Code,“performance-based compensation,” or Performance Awards, in which case the provisions of this Section 4.2(ix)4.2(viii) shall apply. AsTo the extent required pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder, the Committee’s authority to grant new awards that are intended to qualify as performance-based compensation within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code (other than qualifying Options and qualifying SARs) shall terminate upon the first meeting of the Company’s stockholders that occurs in the fifth year following the year in which the Company’s stockholders first approve this Plan.

 

b.

When Performance Awards are made under this Section 4.2(ix)4.2(viii), the Committee shall establish in writing (i) the objective Performance Goals that must be met, (ii) the period during which performance will be measured, (iii) the maximum amounts that may be paid if the Performance Goals are met, and (iv) any other conditions that the Committee deems appropriate and consistent with the requirements of Section 162(m) of the Code for “qualified performance-based compensation.”Code. The Performance Goals shall satisfy the Committee’s requirements for “qualified performance-based“performance-based compensation,” including the requirement that the achievement of the goals be substantially uncertain at the time they are established and that the Performance Goals be established in such a way that a third party with knowledge of the relevant facts could determine whether and to what extent the Performance Goals have been met. The Committee shall not have discretion to increase the amount of compensation that is payable, but may reduce the amount of compensation that is payable, pursuant to Performance Awards identified by the Committee as “qualified performance-based“performance-based compensation.”

 

c.

At the time each a Performance Award is granted, the Committee shall establish in writing the Performance Period, the Performance Measure and the Performance Goals must be pre-established by the Committee. Ain respect of such Performance Goal is considered pre-established if it is established in writing not later than 90 days after the commencement of the period of service to which the Performance Goal relates, provided that the outcome is substantially uncertain at the time the Committee actually established the goal. However, in no event will a Performance Goal be considered pre-established if it is established after 25% of the period of service (as scheduled in good faith at the time the goal is established) has elapsed.

Awards.

 

d.

The Committee in its sole discretion shall have the authority to make equitable adjustments to the Performance Goals in recognition of unusual or non-recurring events affecting the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company or the financial statements of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any Affiliated Company, for the following items: (1) asset write-downs; (2) litigation or claim judgments or settlements; (3) the effect of changes in tax laws, accounting principles, regulations, or other laws or regulations affecting reported results; (4) any reorganization and restructuring programs, including discontinued operations; (5) acquisitions or divestitures; (6) unusual nonrecurring or extraordinary items identified in the Company’sCompany’s audited financial statements, including footnotes; (7) any reorganization or change in the corporate or capital structures of the Company; (8) foreign exchange gains and losses; (9) business interruption events; (10) annual incentive payments or other bonuses; or (11) capital charges, provided such adjustment occurs in writing not later than 90 days afteris appropriate and consistent with the commencement ofrequirements established by the period of serviceCommittee to which the Performance Goal relates (and in no event later than the date that 25% of the period of service has elapsed).relates. In addition, the Committee may specify that certain equitable adjustments to the Performance Goals will be made during the applicable Performance Period, provided such specification occurs in writing not later than 90 days afteris appropriate and consistent with the commencement ofrequirements established by the period of serviceCommittee pursuant to which the Performance Goal relates (and in no event later than the date that 25% of the period of service has elapsed).

Section 4.2(viii)(c) hereof.

 

e.

The Committee shall certify the performance results for the performance period specified in the Award Agreement after the performance period ends. The Committee shall determine the amount, if any, to be paid pursuant to each Award based on the achievement of the Performance Goals and the satisfaction of all other terms of the Award Agreement. Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 3.4, the following limits will apply to Awards of the specified type granted to any one Grantee in any single fiscal year:

i.

Appreciation Awards – Options and SARs: 750,000 shares; and

ii.

Full Value Awards – Awards (other than Options and SARs) that are denominated in Shares: 500,000 shares.


In applying the foregoing limits, (a) all Awards of the specified type granted to the same Grantee in the same fiscal year will be aggregated and made subject to one limit; (b) the limits applicable to Options and SARs refer to the number of shares of Stock subject to those Awards; (c) the share limit under clause (y) refers to the maximum number of shares of Stock that may be delivered under an Award or Awards of the type specified in clause (y) assuming a maximum payout; (d) the dollar limit under clause (z) refers to the maximum dollar amount payable under an Award or Awards of the type specified in clause (z) assuming a maximum payout, (e) the respective limits for Awards of the type specified in clause (y) and clause (z) are only applicable to Awards that are intended to comply with the performance-based exception under Code Section 162(m), and (f) each of the specified limits in clauses (x), (y) and (z) is multiplied by two (2) for Awards granted to a Grantee in the year employment commences.

f.

The Committee may provide in the Award Agreement that Awards under this Section 4.2(ix) 4.2(viii) shall be payable, in whole or in part, in the event of the Grantee’s death or Disability, or under other circumstances consistent with the Treasury regulations and rulings under Section 162(m) of the Code.

 

(ix)

Automatic Extended Exercisability in Certain Cases. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section, if the date an Award would otherwise terminate is a date that the Grantee is prohibited from exercising the Award under the Company’s insider trading policy or such other conditions under applicable securities laws as the Committee shall specify, the term of the Award shall be extended to the second business day after the Grantee is no longer so prohibited from exercising the Award, but in no event shall the Award be extended beyond the original stated term of the Award.

 

4.3

Change of Control of the Company.

4.3          Change of Control of the Company.

 

(i)

The Committee may, at the time an Award is made or at any time prior to, coincident with or after the time of a Change of Control:

 

a.

provide for the cancellation of any Awards then outstanding if the surviving entity or acquiring entity (or the surviving or acquiring entity’sentity’s parent company) in the Change of Control replaces the Awards with new rights of substantially equivalent value, as determined by the Committee. For an Award to be validly assumed by a successor for purpose of this Section 4.3(b)4.3(i)(a), it must (x) provide such Grantee with rights and entitlements substantially equivalent to or better than the rights, terms and conditions applicable under such Award, including, but not limited to, an identical or better exercise or vesting schedules; (y) have substantially equivalent value to such Award (determined at the time of the Change in Control); and (z) be based on stock that is traded on an established U.S. securities market or an established securities market outside the United Stated upon which the Grantees could readily trade the stock without administrative burdens or complexities. In the event of any ambiguity or discrepancy, the determination of the Committee shall be final and binding;

 

b.

provide that upon an involuntary termination of a Grantee’sGrantee’s employment as a result of a Change of Control, any time periods shall accelerate, and any other conditions relating to the vesting, exercise, payment or distribution of an Award shall be waived; or

 

c.

provide that Awards shall be purchased for an amount of cash equal to the amount that could have been obtained for the shares covered by a Restricted Stock Award if it had been vested and or by an Option or SAR if it had been exercised at the time of the Change of Control, provided however that Awards outstanding as of the date of the Change in Control may be cancelled and terminated without payment if the consideration payable with respect to one share of Stock in connection with the Change in Control is less than the exercise price or grant price applicable to such Award, as applicable.

 

(ii)

Notwithstanding any other provisions of the Plan or an Award Agreement to the contrary, the vesting, payment, purchase or distribution of an Award may not be accelerated by reason of a Change of Control for any Grantee unless the Grantee’sGrantee’s employment is involuntarily terminated as a result of the Change of Control as provided in the Award Agreement or in any other written agreement, including an employment agreement, between us and the Grantee.Grantee

.

 

4.4Limitation on Award Grants to Non-Employee Directors. The maximum number of shares of Stock subject to Awards granted during a single fiscal year to any non-employee director, taken together with any cash fees paid to such non-employee director during the fiscal year, shall not exceed $350,000 in total value (calculating the value of any such Awards based on the grant date fair value of such Awards for financial reporting purposes); provided, that the Board may make exceptions to this limit for individual non-employee directors in extraordinary circumstances as the Board may determine in its sole discretion, so long as (x) the aggregate limit does not exceed $500,000 in total value during a fiscal year and (y) the non-employee director receiving such additional compensation does not participate in the decision to award such compensation or in other contemporaneous compensation decisions involving non-employee directors.

 


5             Operation

5

Operation

 

5.1       Duration. Grants may be made under the Plan through ________, 2026.December 29, 2030. In the event of Plan termination while Awards remain outstanding, the Plan shall remain in effect as long as any Awards under it are outstanding, although no further grants may be made following Plan termination.

 

5.2       Uncertificated Stock. Nothing contained in the Plan shall prohibit the issuance of Stock on an uncertificated basis, to the extent allowed by the Company’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, by applicable law and by the applicable rules of any stock exchange.

 

5.3       Tax Withholding. All distributions under the Plan are subject to withholding of all applicable taxes, and the Committee may condition the delivery of any shares or other benefits under the Plan on satisfaction of the applicable withholding obligations. The Committee, in its discretion, and subject to such requirements as the Committee may impose prior to the occurrence of such withholding, may permit such withholding obligations to be satisfied through cash payment by the Grantee, through the surrender of shares of Stock which the Grantee already owns, through withholding from other compensation payable to the Grantee or through the surrender of unrestricted shares of Stock to which the Grantee is otherwise entitled under the Plan, but only to the extent of the minimum amount required to be withheld under applicable law (or, if permitted by the Company, such other withholding rate as will not cause adverse accounting consequences and is permitted under applicable IRS withholding rules).

 

5.4       Use of Shares. Subject to the limitations on the number of shares of Stock that may be delivered under the Plan, the Committee may use available shares of Stock as the form of payment for compensation, grants or rights earned or due under any other compensation plans or arrangements of the Company or a Subsidiary, including the plans and arrangements of the Company or a Subsidiary assumed in business combinations.

 

5.5       Non-transferabilityNon-transferability. Awards granted under the Plan, and during any period of restriction on transferability, shares of Common Stock issued in connection with the exercise of an Option or a SAR, or vesting of a Restricted Stock Award may not be sold, pledged, hypothecated, assigned, margined or otherwise transferred by a Grantee in any manner other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution, unless and until the shares underlying such Award have been issued, and all restrictions applicable to such shares have lapsed or have been waived by the Committee. No Award or interest or right therein shall be subject to the debts, contracts or engagements of a Grantee or his or her successors in interest or shall be subject to disposition by transfer, alienation, anticipation, pledge, encumbrance, assignment or any other means whether such disposition be voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law, by judgment, lien, levy, attachment, garnishment or any other legal or equitable proceedings (including bankruptcy and divorce), and any attempted disposition thereof shall be null and void, of no effect, and not binding on the Company in any way. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may permit Options and/or shares issued in connection with an Option or a SAR exercise that are subject to restrictions on transferability, to be transferred one time and without payment or consideration to a member of a Grantee’s immediate family or to a trust or similar vehicle for the benefit of a Grantee’s immediate family members. During the lifetime of a Grantee, all rights with respect to Awards shall be exercisable only by such Grantee or, if applicable pursuant to the preceding sentence, a permitted transferee.

 

5.6       Form and Time of Elections. Unless otherwise specified herein, each election required or permitted to be made by any Grantee or other person entitled to benefits under the Plan, and any permitted modification, or revocation thereof, shall be in writing filed with the Committee at such times, in such form, and subject to such restrictions and limitations, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, as the Committee shall require.

 

5.7       Agreement with Company. An Award under the Plan shall be subject to such terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the Plan, as the Committee shall, in its sole discretion, prescribe. The terms and conditions of any Award to any Grantee shall be reflected in such form of written document as is determined by the Committee. A copy of such document shall be provided to the Grantee, and the Committee may, but need not, require that the Grantee shall sign a copy of such document. Such document is referred to in the Plan as an “Award Agreement” regardless of whether any Grantee signature is required.

 

5.8       Gender and Number. Where the context admits, words in any gender shall include any other gender, words in the singular shall include the plural and the plural shall include the singular.

 

5.9       Limitation of Implied Rights.

 

(i)

The Plan shall at all times be unfunded and neither a Grantee nor any other person shall, by reason of participation in the Plan, acquire any right in or title to any assets, funds or property of the Company or any Subsidiary whatsoever, including, without limitation, any specific funds, assets, or other property which the Company or any Subsidiary, in its sole discretion, may set aside in anticipation of a liability under the Plan. Nothing contained in the Plan and no action taken pursuant hereto shall create or be construed to create a fiduciary relationship between the Company and any Grantee or any other person. A Grantee shall have only a contractual right to the Stock or amounts, if any, payable under the Plan, unsecured by any assets of the Company or any Subsidiary, and nothing contained in the Plan shall constitute a guarantee that the assets of the Company or any Subsidiary shall be sufficient to pay any benefits to any person.

 

(ii)

The Plan does not constitute a contract of employment or service, and selection as a Grantee will not give any participating Employee, Non-Employee Director or Key Advisor the right to be retained in the employ or service of the Company or any Subsidiary, nor any right or claim to any benefit under the Plan, unless such right or claim has specifically accrued under the terms of the Plan. Except as otherwise provided in the Plan or the Award Agreement, no Award under the Plan shall confer upon the holder thereof any rights as a stockholder of the Company prior to the date on which the individual fulfills all conditions for receipt of such rights.

 


5.10     Section 409A. It is intended that all Options and SARs granted under the Plan shall be exempt from the provisions of Section 409A of the Code and that all other Awards under the Plan, to the extent that they constitute “non-qualified deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, will comply with Section 409A of the Code (and any regulations and guidelines issued thereunder). The Plan and any Award Agreements issued hereunder may be amended in any respect deemed by the Board or the Committee to be necessary in order to preserve compliance with Section 409A of the Code. Notwithstanding anything in this Plan to the contrary, if required by Section 409A of the Code, if a Grantee is considered a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A of the Code and if payment of any Award under this Plan is required to be delayed for a period of six months after “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, payment of such Award shall be delayed as required by Section 409A of the Code, and the accumulated amounts with respect to such Award shall be paid in a lump sum payment within ten days after the end of the six month period. If the Grantee dies during the postponement period prior to the payment of benefits, the amounts withheld on account of Section 409A of the Code shall be paid to the Grantee’s beneficiary within sixty (60) days after the date of the Grantee’s death. For purposes of Section 409A of the Code, each payment under the Plan shall be treated as a separate payment. In no event shall a Grantee, directly or indirectly, designate the calendar year of payment. To the extent that any provision of the Plan would cause a conflict with the requirements of section 409A of the Code, or would cause the administration of the Plan to fail to satisfy the requirements of Section 409A of the Code, such provision shall be deemed null and void to the extent permitted by applicable law. Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or any Award Agreement to the contrary, each Grantee shall be solely responsible for the tax consequences of Awards under the Plan, and in no event shall the Company have any responsibility or liability if an Award does not meet any applicable requirements of Section 409A of the Code. Although the Company intends to administer the Plan to prevent taxation under Section 409A of the Code, the Company does not represent or warrant that the Plan or any Award complies with any provision of federal, state, local or other tax law.

5.11     Regulations and Other Approvals.

 

5.11(i)

Regulations and Other Approvals.

(i)

The obligation of the Company to sell or deliver Stock with respect to any Award granted under the Plan shall be subject to all applicable laws, rules and regulations, including all applicable federal and state securities laws, and the obtaining of all such approvals by governmental agencies as may be deemed necessary or appropriate by the Committee.

 

(ii)

Each Award is subject to the requirement that, if at any time the Committee determines, in its absolute discretion, that the listing, registration or qualification of Stock issuable pursuant to the Plan is required by any securities exchange or under any state or federal law, or the consent or approval of any governmental regulatory body is necessary or desirable as a condition of, or in connection with, the grant of an Award or the issuance of Stock, no such Award shall be granted or payment made or Stock issued, in whole or in part, unless listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval has been effected or obtained free of any conditions not acceptable to the Committee.

 

(iii)

In the event that the disposition of Stock acquired pursuant to the Plan is not covered by a then current registration statement under the Securities Act and is not otherwise exempt from such registration, such Stock shall be restricted against transfer to the extent required by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or regulations thereunder, and applicable state securities laws, and the Committee may require a Grantee receiving Stock pursuant to the Plan, as a condition precedent to receipt of such Stock, to represent to the Company in writing that the Stock acquired by such Grantee is acquired for investment only and not with a view to distribution.

 

(iv)

With respect to persons subject to sectionSection 16 of the 1934 Act, it is the intent of the Company that the Plan and all transactions under the Plan comply with all applicable provisions of Rule 16b-3.

 

(v)

All Awards under the Plan will be subject to any compensation, clawback and recoupment policies that may be applicable to the employees of the Company, as in effect from time to time and as approved by the Board or Committee, whether or not approved before or after the Effective Date. Subject to the requirements of applicable law, any such compensation, clawback and recoupment policies shall apply to Awards made after the effective date of the policy.

 

5.12Non-Employee Director Award Deferrals. The Committee may permit a Non-Employee Director to defer receipt of the payment of cash or the delivery of shares that would otherwise be due to such Non-Employee Director in connection with any Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units or Other Stock-Based Awards. If any such deferral election is permitted, the Committee shall establish rules and procedures for such deferrals and may provide for interest or other earnings to be paid on such deferrals, which rules and procedures shall be consistent with applicable requirements of Section 409A of the Code. Unless otherwise specified in a Non-Employee Director’s valid election, any deferred amount will be deferred until the earliest to occur of the Non-Employee Director’s death, separation from service, or Change of Control; provided that any such deferral election is made by the Non-Employee Director on or prior to December 31 of the calendar year preceding the calendar year in which any such amounts are earned, or, if such Non-Employee Director is newly eligible for purposes of Section 409A of the Code, then within 30 days following the date he or she is first eligible, and then only with respect to amounts earned after the date of the election.

 


6             Amendment and Termination

6

Amendment and Termination

 

The Plan may be terminated or amended by the Board at any time, except that the following actions may not be taken without stockholder approval:

 

(i)

any increase in the number of shares that may be issued under the Plan (except by certain adjustments provided for under the Plan);

 

(ii)

any change in the class of persons eligible to receive ISOs under the Plan;

 

(iii)

any change in the requirements of Sections 4.2(i)(b) and 4.2(ii)(c) hereof regarding the exercise price of Options and the grant price of SARs;

 

(iv)

any repricing or cancellation and regrant of any Option or, if applicable, other Award at a lower exercise, base or purchase price, as set forth in Section 2.3;2.3 hereof; or

 

(v)

any other amendment to the Plan that would require approval of the Company’sCompany’s stockholders under applicable law, regulation or rule or stock exchange listing requirement.

 

Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, adjustments pursuant to Section 3 hereof shall not be subject to the foregoing limitations of this Section 6.

 

7

7             Governing Law

 

The Plan and all Award Agreements entered into under the Plan shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of New York, except that any principles or provisions of New York law that would apply the law of another jurisdiction (other than applicable provisions of U.S. Federal law) shall be disregarded. Notwithstanding the foregoing, matters with respect to indemnification, delegation of authority under the Plan, and the legality of shares of Stock issued under the Plan, shall be governed by the Nevada Revised Statutes.Delaware General Corporation Law.

 

8

8             Severability

 

If any of the provision of this Plan is finally held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable (whether in whole or in part), such provision shall be deemed modified to the extent, but only to the extent, of such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability and the remaining provisions shall not be affected thereby; provided that, if any such provision is finally held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable because it exceeds the maximum scope determined to be acceptable to permit such provision to be enforceable, such provision shall be deemed modified to the minimum extent necessary in order to make such provision enforceable.

 

9

Clawback and Non-compete

9             Clawback and Non-compete

 

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Plan, any Award which is subject to recovery under any law, government regulation, stock exchange listing requirement, or Company policy, will be subject to such deductions and clawback as may be required to be made pursuant to such law, government regulation or stock exchange listing requirement, or any policy adopted by the Company whether pursuant to any such law, government regulation or stock exchange listing requirement or otherwise. In addition and notwithstanding any other provisions of this Plan, any Award shall be subject to such noncompete provisions under the terms of the Agreement or any other agreement or policy adopted by the Company, including, without limitation, any such terms providing for immediate termination and forfeiture of an Award if and when a Participant becomes an employee, agent or principal of a competitor without the express written consent of the Company.

 

* * * * *

F-12Appendix C

 

AULT GLOBAL HOLDINGS, INC.

2021 EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN

(effective July 6, 2021, subject to stockholder approval)

ARTICLE I

PURPOSE

The purpose of the Plan is to assist employees of the Company and its Designated Companies in acquiring a share ownership interest in the Company, and to help such employees provide for their future security and to encourage them to remain in the employment of the Company and its Subsidiaries and Affiliates.

The Plan consists of two components: the Section 423 Component and the Non-Section 423 Component. The Section 423 Component is intended to qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” under Section 423 of the Code and shall be administered, interpreted and construed in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 423 of the Code. In addition, the Plan authorizes the grant of Options under the Non-Section 423 Component, which need not qualify as Options granted pursuant to an “employee stock purchase plan” under Section 423 of the Code; such Options granted under the Non-Section 423 Component shall be granted pursuant to separate Offerings containing such sub-plans, appendices, rules or procedures as may be adopted by the Administrator and designed to achieve tax, securities laws or other objectives for Eligible Employees and the Designated Companies in locations outside of the United States.

Except as otherwise provided herein or determined by the Administrator, the Non-Section 423 Component will operate and be administered in the same manner as the Section 423 Component. Offerings intended to be made under the Non-Section 423 Component will be designated as such by the Administrator at or prior to the time of such Offering.

For purposes of the Plan, the Administrator may designate separate Offerings under the Plan, the terms of which need not be identical, in which Eligible Employees may participate, provided that the terms of participation are the same within each separate Offering under the Section 423 Component as determined under Section 423 of the Code. Solely by way of example and without limiting the foregoing, the Company could, but shall not be required to, provide for simultaneous Offerings under the Section 423 Component and the Non-Section 423 Component of the Plan.

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS

As used in the Plan, the following words and phrases have the meanings specified below, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

2.1Administrator” means the Committee, or such individuals to which authority to administer the Plan has been delegated under Section 7.1 hereof.

2.2Affiliate” means a corporation or other entity controlled by, controlling, or under control with the Company. The term “control” (including, with correlative meaning, the terms “controlled by” and “under common control with”), as applied to any person, means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of management and policies of such person, whether through the ownership of voting or other securities, by contract or otherwise.

2.3Agent” means the brokerage firm, bank or other financial institution, entity or person(s), if any, engaged, retained, appointed or authorized to act as the agent of the Company or an Employee with regard to the Plan.

2.4Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

2.5Change in Control” has the meaning set forth in the Company’s 2021 Stock Incentive Plan.

2.6Code” means the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time. Any reference to any section of the Code shall also be a reference to any successor provision and any guidance and treasury regulation promulgated thereunder.

2.7Committee” means the Compensation Committee of the Board.

2.8Common Stock” means the Class A common stock, $0.001 par value per share, of the Company.

2.9Company” means Ault Global Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its successors by operation of law.

2.10Compensation” of an Employee means the regular straight-time earnings or base salary, commissions and payments received for overtime and shift premiums received by such Employee as compensation for services to the Company or any Designated Company, determined before giving effect to any salary reduction agreement pursuant to (a) a qualified cash or deferred arrangement (within the meaning of Section 401(k) of the Code), or (b) a cafeteria plan (within the meaning of Section 125 of the Code). Compensation shall exclude any annual incentive compensation or other payments made under any bonus program, vacation pay, holiday pay, jury duty pay, funeral leave pay, military leave pay, education or tuition reimbursements, travel expenses, business and moving reimbursements, imputed income arising under any group insurance or benefit program, income received in connection with any share options, share appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units or other compensatory equity awards, fringe benefits, other special or one-time payments (e.g., retention or sign-on bonuses) and all contributions made by the Company or any Designated Subsidiary for the Employee’s benefit under any employee benefit plan now or hereafter established. The Administrator, in its discretion, may establish a different definition of Compensation for an Offering, which for the Section 423 Component shall apply on a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis. Further, the Administrator will have discretion to determine the application of this definition to Eligible Employees outside the United States.

2.11Designated Company” means each Affiliate and Subsidiary, including any Affiliate and Subsidiary in existence on the Effective Date and any Affiliate and Subsidiary formed or acquired following the Effective Date, that has been designated by the Administrator from time to time in its sole discretion as eligible to participate in the Plan, in accordance with Section 7.2 hereof, such designation to specify whether such participation is in the Section 423 Component or Non-Section 423 Component. A Designated Company may participate in either the Section 423 Component or Non-Section 423 Component, but not both. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Affiliate or Subsidiary is disregarded for U.S. federal income tax purposes in respect of the Company or any Designated Company participating in the Section 423 Component, then such disregarded Affiliate or Subsidiary shall automatically be a Designated Company participating in the Section 423 Component. If any Affiliate or Subsidiary is disregarded for U.S. federal income tax purposes in respect of any Designated Company participating in the Non-Section 423 Component, the Administrator may exclude such Affiliate or Subsidiary from participating in the Plan, notwithstanding that the Designated Company in respect of which such Affiliate or Subsidiary is disregarded may participate in the Plan.

2.12Effective Date” means the date the Plan is adopted by the Board, subject to approval of the Company’s shareholders.

2.13Eligible Employee” means any Employee of the Company or a Designated Company who has completed at least six (6) months of continuous service with the Company. The Administrator, in its discretion, may also exclude any or all of the following unless prohibited by applicable law, Employees:

(a) who are customarily scheduled to work 20 hours or less per week;

(b) whose customary employment is not more than five months in a calendar year;

(c) who are not employed by the Company or a Designated Company prior to the applicable Enrollment Date occurs; and

(d) any Employee who is a “highly compensated employee” of the Company or any Designated Company (within the meaning of Section 414(q) of the Code), or that is such a “highly compensated employee” (A) with compensation above a specified level, (B) who is an officer or (C) who is subject to the disclosure requirements of Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act; or

(e) any Employee who is a citizen or resident of a jurisdiction outside the United States (without regard to whether they are also a citizen of the United States or a resident alien (within the meaning of Section 7701(b)(1)(A) of the Code)) if either (A) the grant of the Option is prohibited under the laws of the jurisdiction governing such Employee, or (B) compliance with the laws of the jurisdiction would cause the Section 423 Component, any Offering thereunder or an Option granted thereunder to violate the requirements of Section 423 of the Code; provided that any exclusion shall be applied in an identical manner under each Offering to all Employees in accordance with Treas. Reg. § 1.423-2(e).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, any Employee who, after the granting of the Option, would be deemed for purposes of Section 423(b)(3) of the Code to possess 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of shares of the Company or any Subsidiary shall not be an Eligible Employee. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the rules of Section 424(d) of the Code with regard to the attribution of share ownership shall apply in determining the share ownership of an individual, and shares which an Employee may purchase under outstanding options under the Plan shall be treated as shares owned by the Employee.

Further, with respect to the Non-Section 423 Component, (a) the Administrator may limit eligibility further within a Designated Company so as to only designate some Employees of a Designated Company as Eligible Employees, and (b) to the extent any restrictions in this definition are not consistent with applicable local laws, the applicable local laws shall control.

- 2 -

2.14Employee” means any person who renders services to the Company or a Designated Company in the status of an employee within the meaning of Section 3401(c) of the Code. “Employee” shall not include any director of the Company or a Designated Company who does not render services to the Company or a Designated Company in the status of an employee within the meaning of Section 3401(c) of the Code. For purposes of the Plan, the employment relationship shall be treated as continuing intact while the individual is on military leave, sick leave or other leave of absence approved by the Company or a Designated Company and meeting the requirements of Treas. Reg. § 1.421-1(h)(2). Where the period of leave exceeds three months, or such other period specified in Treas. Reg. § 1.421-1(h)(2), and the individual’s right to reemployment is not guaranteed either by statute or by contract, the employment relationship shall be deemed to have terminated on the first day immediately following such three (3)-month period, or such other period specified in Treas. Reg. § 1.421-1(h)(2).

2.15Enrollment Date” means the first date of each Offering Period.

2.16Exercise Date” means the last day of each Purchase Period, except as provided in Section 5.2 hereof.

2.17Exchange Act” means the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time. Reference to a specific section of the Exchange Act or regulation thereunder shall include such section or regulation, any valid regulation or interpretation promulgated under such section, and any comparable provision of any future legislation or regulation amending, supplementing, or superseding such section or regulation.

2.18Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of the Common Stock determined as follows:

(a) If the Common Stock is (i) listed on a national securities exchange, (ii) listed on any national market system or (iii) listed, quoted or traded on any automated quotation system, the Fair Market Value of a Share shall be the closing sales price for a Share as quoted on such exchange or system for such date or, if there is no closing sales price for a Share on the date in question, the closing sales price for a Share on the last preceding date for which such quotation exists, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

(b) If the Common Stock is not listed on an established securities exchange, national market system or automated quotation system, but the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer, the Fair Market Value of a Share shall be the mean of the high bid and low asked prices for such date or, if there are no high bid and low asked prices for a Share on such date, the high bid and low asked prices for a Share on the last preceding date for which such information exists, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable; or

(c) If the Common Stock is neither listed on an established securities exchange, national market system or automated quotation system nor regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer, the Fair Market Value of a Share shall be established by the Administrator in good faith.

2.19Grant Date” means the first day of an Offering Period.

2.20New Exercise Date” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.2(b) hereof.

2.21Non-Section 423 Component” means those Offerings under the Plan, together with the sub-plans, appendices, rules or procedures, if any, adopted by the Administrator as a part of the Plan, in each case, pursuant to which Options may be granted to Eligible Employees that need not satisfy the requirements for Options granted pursuant to an “employee stock purchase plan” that are set forth under Section 423 of the Code.

2.22Offering” means an offer under the Plan of an Option that may be exercised during an Offering Period as further described in Article 4 hereof. Unless otherwise specified by the Administrator, each Offering to Eligible Employees shall be deemed a separate Offering, even if the dates and other terms of the applicable Purchase Periods of each such Offering are identical and the provisions of the Plan will separately apply to each Offering. To the extent permitted by Treas. Reg. § 1.423-2(a)(1), the terms of each separate Offering under the Section 423 Component need not be identical, provided that the terms of the Section 423 Component and an Offering thereunder together satisfy Treas. Reg. § 1.423-2(a)(2) and (a)(3).

2.23Offering Period” means the periods of approximately six (6) months during which Options shall be granted to Participants, commencing on such Trading Day as designated by the Administrator and terminating on a Trading Day approximately six (6) months later, each as determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion. The duration and timing of Offering Periods may be established or changed by the Administrator at any time, in its sole discretion and may consist of one or more Purchase Periods. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event may an Offering Period exceed 27 months.

2.24Option” means the right to purchase Shares pursuant to the Plan during each Offering Period.

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2.25Option Price” means the purchase price of a Share hereunder as provided in Section 4.2 hereof.

2.26Parent” means any entity that is a parent corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424 of the Code.

2.27Participant” means any Eligible Employee who elects to participate in the Plan.

2.28Payday” means the regular and recurring established day for payment of Compensation to an Employee.

2.29Plan” means this Employee Stock Purchase Plan, including both the Section 423 Component and Non-Section 423 Component and any other sub-plans or appendices hereto, as amended from time to time.

2.30Plan Account” means a bookkeeping account established and maintained by the Company in the name of each Participant.

2.31Purchase Period” means the period commencing on the first Trading Day of each Offering Period and terminating on the last Trading Day of each Offering Period, as determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion. The duration and timing of Purchase Periods may be established or changed by the Administrator at any time, in its sole discretion. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event may a Purchase Period exceed the duration of the Offering Period under which it is established.

2.32Section 409A” means the nonqualified deferred compensation rules under Section 409A of the Code and any applicable treasury regulations and other official guidance thereunder.

2.33Section 423 Component” means those Offerings under the Plan that are intended to meet the requirements under Section 423(b) of the Code.

2.34Shares” means shares of Common Stock.

2.35Subsidiary” means any subsidiary corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(f) of the Code.

2.36Tax-Related Items” means any U.S. and non-U.S. federal, provincial, state and/or local taxes (including, without limitation, income tax, social insurance contributions, fringe benefit tax, employment tax, stamp tax and any employer tax liability which has been transferred to a Participant) for which a Participant is liable in connection with his or her participation in the Plan.

2.37Treas. Reg.” means U.S. Department of the Treasury regulations.

2.38Withdrawal Election” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.1(a) hereof.

ARTICLE III

PARTICIPATION

3.1 Eligibility.

(a) Any Eligible Employee who is employed by the Company or a Designated Company on a given Enrollment Date for an Offering Period shall be eligible to participate in the Plan during such Offering Period, subject to the requirements of Articles 4 and 5 hereof, and, for the Section 423 Component, the limitations imposed by Section 423(b) of the Code.

(b) No Eligible Employee shall be granted an Option under the Section 423 Component which permits the Participant to purchase Shares under the Plan, and to purchase shares under all other employee stock purchase plans of the Company, any Parent or any Subsidiary subject to Section 423 of the Code, at a rate which exceeds $25,000 of fair market value of such shares (determined at the time such Option is granted) for each calendar year in which such Option is outstanding at any time. The limitation under this Section 3.1(b) shall be applied in accordance with Section 423(b)(8) of the Code.

3.2 Election to Participate; Payroll Deductions.

(a) Each individual who is an Eligible Employee as of an Offering Period’s Enrollment Date may elect to participate in such Offering Period and the Plan by delivering to the Company or an Agent designated by the Company an enrollment form including a payroll deduction authorization (which may be in an electronic format or such other method as determined by the Company in accordance with the Company’s practices) (a “Participation Election”) no later than the period of time prior to the applicable Enrollment Date determined by the Administrator, in its sole discretion. Except as provided in Section 3.2(e) hereof, an Eligible Employee may participate in the Plan only by means of payroll deduction.

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(b) Subject to Section 3.1(b) hereof and except as may otherwise be determined by the Administrator, payroll deductions (i) shall equal at least 1% of the Participant’s Compensation as of each Payday of the Offering Period following the Enrollment Date, but not more than 15% of the Participant’s Compensation as of each Payday of the Offering Period following the Enrollment Date; and (ii) shall be expressed as a whole number percentage. Subject to Section 3.2(e) hereof, amounts deducted from a Participant’s Compensation with respect to an Offering Period pursuant to this Section 3.2 shall be deducted each Payday through payroll deduction and credited to the Participant’s Plan Account.

(c) Unless otherwise determined by the Administrator, following at least one payroll deduction, a Participant may increase or decrease the percentage of Compensation or the fixed dollar amount designated in his or her enrollment form, subject to the limits of this Section 3.2, or may suspend his or her payroll deductions, at any time during an Offering Period; provided, however, that the Administrator may limit the number of changes a Participant may make to his or her payroll deduction elections during each Offering Period in the applicable Offering (and in the absence of any specific designation by the Administrator, a Participant shall only be allowed to decrease his or her payroll deduction election one time during each Offering Period and shall not be permitted to increase his or her payroll deduction at any time during an Offering Period). Any such change or suspension of payroll deductions shall be effective with the first full payroll period following ten business days after the Company’s receipt of the new enrollment form (or such shorter or longer period as may be specified by the Administrator in the applicable Offering). In the event a Participant suspends his or her payroll deductions, such Participant’s cumulative payroll deductions prior to the suspension shall remain in his or her account and shall be applied to the purchase of Shares on the next occurring Exercise Date and shall not be paid to such Participant unless he or she withdraws from participation in the Plan pursuant to Section 6.1.

(d) Upon the completion of an Offering Period, each Participant in such Offering Period shall automatically participate in the immediately following Offering Period at the same payroll deduction percentage as in effect at the termination of such Offering Period, unless such Participant delivers to the Company or an Agent designated by the Company a different Participation Election with respect to the successive Offering Period in accordance with Section 3.2(a) hereof, or unless such Participant becomes ineligible for participation in the Plan.

(e) Notwithstanding any other provisions of the Plan to the contrary, in non-U.S. jurisdictions where participation in the Plan through payroll deductions is prohibited or otherwise problematic under applicable local laws (as determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion), the Administrator may provide that an Eligible Employee may elect to participate through contributions to the Participant’s Plan Account in a form acceptable to the Administrator in lieu of or in addition to payroll deductions; provided, however, that, for any Offering under the Section 423 Component, the Administrator must determine that any alternative method of contribution is applied on an equal and uniform basis to all Eligible Employees in the Offering. Any reference to “payroll deductions” in this Section 3.2 (or in any other section of the Plan) will similarly cover contributions by other means made pursuant to this Section 3.2(e).

ARTICLE IV

PURCHASE OF SHARES

4.1 Grant of Option. The Company may make one or more Offerings under the Plan, which may be successive or overlapping with one another, until the earlier of: (i) the date on which all Shares available under the Plan have been purchased or (ii) the date on which the Plan is suspended or terminates. No Offering shall commence prior to the date on which the Company’s registration statement on Form S-8 is filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in respect of the Plan. The Administrator shall designate the terms and conditions of each Offering in writing, including without limitation, the Offering Period and the Purchase Periods. Each Participant shall be granted an Option with respect to an Offering Period on the applicable Grant Date. Subject to the limitations of Section 3.1(b) hereof, the number of Shares subject to a Participant’s Option shall be determined by dividing (a) such Participant’s payroll deductions accumulated prior to an Exercise Date and retained in the Participant’s Plan Account on such Exercise Date by (b) the applicable Option Price; provided that in no event shall a Participant be permitted to purchase during each Offering Period more than 1,000 shares of Common Stock (subject to any adjustment pursuant to Section 5.2 hereof). The Administrator may, for future Offering Periods, increase or decrease, in its absolute discretion, the maximum number of Shares that a Participant may purchase during any Purchase Periods under such future Offering Periods. Each Option shall expire on the last Exercise Date for the applicable Offering Period immediately after the automatic exercise of the Option in accordance with Section 4.3 hereof, unless such Option terminates earlier in accordance with Article 6 hereof.

4.2 Option Price. The Option Price shall equal 85% of the lesser of the Fair Market Value of a Share on (a) the applicable Grant Date, and (b) the applicable Exercise Date, or such other price designated by the Administrator.

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4.3 Purchase of Shares.

(a) On each Exercise Date for an Offering Period, each Participant shall automatically and without any action on such Participant’s part be deemed to have exercised the Participant’s Option to purchase at the applicable Option Price the largest number of whole Shares which can be purchased with the amount in the Participant’s Plan Account, subject to the limitations set forth in the Plan. Unless otherwise determined by the Administrator in advance of an Offering or in accordance with applicable law, any balance that is remaining in the Participant’s Plan Account (after exercise of such Participant’s Option) as of the Exercise Date shall be carried forward into the next Offering Period, unless the Participant has properly elected to withdraw from the Plan, has ceased to be an Eligible Employee or with respect to the maximum limitations set forth in Section 3.1(b) and Section 4.1. Any balance not carried forward to the next Offering Period in accordance with the prior sentence shall promptly be refunded as soon as administratively practicable to the applicable Participant.

(b) As soon as practicable following each Exercise Date, the number of Shares purchased by such Participant pursuant to Section 4.3(a) hereof shall be delivered (either in share certificate or book entry form), in the Company’s sole discretion, to either (i) the Participant or (ii) an account established in the Participant’s name at a stock brokerage or other financial services firm designated by the Company. The Company may require that shares be retained with such brokerage or firm for a designated period of time and/or may establish procedures to permit tracking of disqualifying dispositions of such shares.

4.4 Transferability of Rights. An Option granted under the Plan shall not be transferable, other than by will or the applicable laws of descent and distribution, and is exercisable during the Participant’s lifetime only by the Participant. No option or interest or right to the Option shall be available to pay off any debts, contracts or engagements of the Participant or the Participant’s successors in interest or shall be subject to disposition by pledge, encumbrance, assignment or any other means whether such disposition be voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law by judgment, levy, attachment, garnishment or any other legal or equitable proceedings (including bankruptcy), and any attempt at disposition of the Option shall have no effect.

ARTICLE V

PROVISIONS RELATING TO COMMON STOCK

5.1 Shares Reserved. Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 5.2 hereof, the aggregate number of Shares that may be issued pursuant to rights granted under the Plan shall be the sum of (a) 980,000 Shares and (b) an annual increase on the first day of each year beginning on January 1, 2022 and annually thereafter ending in 2031 equal to the lesser of (i) 1% of all classes of the Company’s shares outstanding on the last day of the immediately preceding calendar year and (ii) such smaller number of shares as may be determined by the Board. Shares made available for sale under the Plan may be authorized but unissued shares or treasury Shares. If any right granted under the Plan shall for any reason terminate without having been exercised, the Shares not purchased under such right shall again become available for issuance under the Plan.

5.2 Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Liquidation, Merger or Asset Sale.

(a) Changes in Capitalization. Subject to any required action by the shareholders of the Company, the number of Shares which have been authorized for issuance under the Plan but not yet placed under Option, as well as the price per share and the number of Shares covered by each Option under the Plan which has not yet been exercised shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued Shares resulting from a share split, reverse share split, share dividend, combination, amalgamation, consolidation, reorganization, arrangement or reclassification of the Shares, or any other increase or decrease in the number Shares effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.” Such adjustment shall be made by the Administrator, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive. Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of any class, or securities convertible into shares of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of Shares subject to an Option.

(b) Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Offering Periods then in progress shall be shortened by setting a new Exercise Date (the “New Exercise Date”), and shall terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed dissolution or liquidation, unless provided otherwise by the Administrator. The New Exercise Date shall be before the date of the Company’s proposed dissolution or liquidation. The Administrator shall notify each Participant in writing, at least ten business days prior to the New Exercise Date, that the Exercise Date for the Participant’s Option has been changed to the New Exercise Date and that the Participant’s Option shall be exercised automatically on the New Exercise Date, unless prior to such date the Participant has withdrawn from the Offering Period as provided in Section 6.1 hereof or the Participant has ceased to be an Eligible Employee as provided in Section 6.2 hereof.

(c) Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a proposed sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, or the merger of the Company with or into another corporation, each outstanding Option shall be assumed or an equivalent Option substituted by the successor corporation or a parent or subsidiary of the successor corporation. If the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, any Offering Periods then in progress shall be shortened by setting a New Exercise Date and any Offering Periods then in progress shall end on the New Exercise Date. The New Exercise Date shall be before the date of the Company’s proposed sale or merger. The Administrator shall notify each Participant in writing, at least ten business days prior to the New Exercise Date, that the Exercise Date for the Participant’s Option has been changed to the New Exercise Date and that the Participant’s Option shall be exercised automatically on the New Exercise Date, unless prior to such date the Participant has withdrawn from the Offering Period as provided in Section 6.1 hereof or the Participant has ceased to be an Eligible Employee as provided in Section 6.2 hereof.

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5.3 Insufficient Shares. If the Administrator determines that, on a given Exercise Date, the number of Shares with respect to which Options are to be exercised may exceed the number of Shares remaining available for sale under the Plan on such Exercise Date, the Administrator shall make a pro rata allocation of the Shares available for issuance on such Exercise Date in as uniform a manner as shall be practicable and as it shall determine in its sole discretion to be equitable among all Participants exercising Options to purchase Shares on such Exercise Date, and unless additional shares are authorized for issuance under the Plan, no further Offering Periods shall take place and the Plan shall terminate pursuant to Section 7.5 hereof. If an Offering Period is so terminated, then the balance of the amount credited to the Participant’s Plan Account which has not been applied to the purchase of Shares shall be paid to such Participant in one lump sum in cash within 30 days after such Exercise Date, without any interest thereon (except as may be required by applicable local laws).

5.4 Rights as Shareholders. With respect to Shares subject to an Option, a Participant shall not be deemed to be a shareholder of the Company and shall not have any of the rights or privileges of a shareholder. A Participant shall have the rights and privileges of a shareholder of the Company when, but not until, the Shares have been deposited in the designated brokerage account following exercise of the Participant’s Option.

ARTICLE VI

TERMINATION OF PARTICIPATION

6.1 Cessation of Contributions; Voluntary Withdrawal.

(a) A Participant may cease payroll deductions during an Offering Period and elect to withdraw from the Plan by delivering written notice of such election to the Company or an Agent designated by the Company in such form and at such time prior to the Exercise Date for such Offering Period as may be established by the Administrator (a “Withdrawal Election”). In the event a Participant elects to withdraw from the Plan, amounts then credited to such Participant’s Plan Account shall be returned to the Participant in one lump-sum payment in cash within 30 days after such election is received by the Company, without any interest thereon (except as may be required by applicable local laws), and the Participant shall cease to participate in the Plan and the Participant’s Option for such Offering Period shall terminate upon receipt of the Withdrawal Election.

(b) A Participant’s withdrawal from the Plan shall not have any effect upon the Participant’s eligibility to participate in any similar plan which may hereafter be adopted by the Company or in succeeding Offering Periods which commence after the termination of the Offering Period from which the Participant withdraws.

(c) A Participant who ceases contributions to the Plan during any Offering Period shall not be permitted to resume contributions to the Plan during that Offering Period.

6.2 Termination of Eligibility. Upon a Participant’s ceasing to be an Eligible Employee, for any reason, such Participant’s Option for the applicable Offering Period shall automatically terminate, the Participant shall be deemed to have elected to withdraw from the Plan, and any balance on such Participant’s Plan Account shall be paid to such Participant or, in the case of the Participant’s death, to the person or persons entitled thereto pursuant to applicable law, within 30 days after such cessation of being an Eligible Employee, without any interest thereon (except as may be required by applicable local laws). If a Participant transfers employment from the Company or any Designated Company participating in the Section 423 Component to any Designated Company participating in the Non-Section 423 Component, such transfer shall not be treated as a termination of employment, but the Participant shall immediately cease to participate in the Section 423 Component; however, any contributions made for the Offering Period in which such transfer occurs shall be transferred to the Non-Section 423 Component, and such Participant shall immediately join the then-current Offering under the Non-Section 423 Component upon the same terms and conditions in effect for the Participant’s participation in the Section 423 Component, except for such modifications otherwise applicable for Participants in such Offering. A Participant who transfers employment from any Designated Company participating in the Non-Section 423 Component to the Company or any Designated Company participating in the Section 423 Component shall not be treated as terminating the Participant’s employment and shall remain a Participant in the Non-Section 423 Component until the earlier of (i) the end of the current Offering Period under the Non-Section 423 Component, or (ii) the Enrollment Date of the first Offering Period in which the Participant is eligible to participate following such transfer. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Administrator may establish different rules to govern transfers of employment between companies participating in the Section 423 Component and the Non-Section 423 Component, consistent with the applicable requirements of Section 423 of the Code.

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ARTICLE VII

GENERAL PROVISIONS

7.1 Administration.

(a) The Plan shall be administered by the Committee, which shall be composed of members of the Board. The Committee may delegate administrative tasks under the Plan to the services of an Agent or Employees to assist in the administration of the Plan, including without limitation, determining the Designated Companies participating in the Plan, establishing and maintaining an individual securities account under the Plan for each Participant, determining enrollment and withdrawal deadlines and determining exchange rates. In its absolute discretion, the Board may at any time and from time to time exercise any and all rights and duties of the Administrator under the Plan.

(b) It shall be the duty of the Administrator to conduct the general administration of the Plan in accordance with the provisions of the Plan. The Administrator shall have the power, subject to, and within the limitations of, the express provisions of the Plan:

(i) To establish and terminate Offerings;

(ii) To determine when and how Options shall be granted and the provisions and terms of each Offering (which need not be identical);

(iii) To select Designated Companies in accordance with Section 7.2 hereof; and

(iv) To construe and interpret the Plan, the terms of any Offering and the terms of the Options and to adopt such rules for the administration, interpretation, and application of the Plan as are consistent therewith and to interpret, amend or revoke any such rules. The Administrator, in the exercise of this power, may correct any defect, omission or inconsistency in the Plan, any Offering or any Option, in a manner and to the extent it shall deem necessary or expedient to administer the Plan, subject to Section 423 of the Code for the Section 423 Component.

(c) The Administrator may adopt rules or procedures relating to the operation and administration of the Plan to accommodate the specific requirements of local laws and procedures, provided that the adoption and implementation of any such rules and/or procedures would not cause the Section 423 Component to be in noncompliance with Section 423 of the Code. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administrator is specifically authorized to adopt rules and procedures regarding handling of participation elections, payroll deductions, payment of interest, conversion of local currency, payroll tax, withholding procedures and handling of share certificates which vary with local requirements.

(d) The Administrator may adopt sub-plans applicable to particular Designated Companies or locations, which sub-plans may be designed to be outside the scope of Section 423 of the Code. The rules of such sub-plans may take precedence over other provisions of the Plan, with the exception of Section 5.1 hereof, but unless otherwise superseded by the terms of such sub-plan, the provisions of the Plan shall govern the operation of such sub-plan.

(e) All expenses and liabilities incurred by the Administrator in connection with the administration of the Plan shall be borne by the Company. The Administrator may employ attorneys, consultants, accountants, appraisers, brokers or other persons. The Administrator, the Company and its officers and directors shall be entitled to rely upon the advice, opinions or valuations of any such persons. All actions taken and all interpretations and determinations made by the Administrator in good faith shall be final and binding upon all Participants, the Company and all other interested persons. No member of the Board or Administrator shall be personally liable for any action, determination or interpretation made in good faith with respect to the Plan or the Options, and all members of the Board or Administrator shall be fully protected by the Company in respect to any such action, determination, or interpretation. Any and all risks resulting from any market fluctuations or conditions of any nature and affecting the price of Shares are assumed by the Participant.

7.2 Designation of Affiliates and Subsidiaries. The Administrator shall designate from time to time the Affiliates and Subsidiaries that shall constitute Designated Companies, and determine whether such Designated Companies shall participate in the Section 423 Component or Non-Section 423 Component; provided, however, that an Affiliate that does not also qualify as a Subsidiary may be designated only as participating in the Non-Section 423 Component. The Administrator may designate an Affiliate or Subsidiary, or terminate the designation of an Affiliate or Subsidiary, without the approval of the shareholders of the Company.

7.3 Reports. Individual accounts shall be maintained for each Participant in the Plan. Statements of Plan Accounts shall be given to Participants at least annually, which statements shall set forth the amounts of payroll deductions, the Option Price, the number of shares purchased and the remaining cash balance, if any.

7.4 No Right to Employment. Nothing in the Plan shall be construed to give any person (including any Participant) the right to remain in the employ of the Company, a Parent, a Subsidiary or an Affiliate or to affect the right of the Company, any Parent, any Subsidiary or any Affiliate to terminate the employment of any person (including any Participant) at any time, with or without cause, which right is expressly reserved.

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7.5 Amendment and Termination of the Plan.

(a) The Board may, in its sole discretion, amend, suspend or terminate the Plan at any time and from time to time. To the extent necessary to comply with Section 423 of the Code (or any successor rule or provision), with respect to the Section 423 Component, or any other applicable law, regulation or stock exchange rule, the Company shall obtain shareholder approval of any such amendment to the Plan in such a manner and to such a degree as required by Section 423 of the Code or such other law, regulation or rule.

(b) If the Administrator determines that the ongoing operation of the Plan may result in unfavorable financial accounting consequences, the Administrator may in its discretion modify or amend the Plan to reduce or eliminate such accounting consequence including, but not limited to:

(i) altering the Option Price for any Offering Period including an Offering Period underway at the time of the change in Option Price;

(ii) shortening any Offering Period so that the Offering Period ends on a new Exercise Date, including an Offering Period underway at the time of the Administrator action; and

(iii) allocating Shares.

Such modifications or amendments shall not require shareholder approval or the consent of any Participant.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision in the Plan to the contrary, the Plan shall be automatically terminated following a Change in Control.

(d) Upon termination of the Plan, the balance in each Participant’s Plan Account shall be refunded as soon as practicable after such termination, without any interest thereon (except as may be required by applicable local laws).

7.6 Use of Funds; No Interest Paid. All funds received by the Company by reason of purchase of shares of Shares under the Plan shall be included in the general funds of the Company free of any trust or other restriction and may be used for any corporate purpose (except as may be required by applicable local laws). No interest shall be paid to any Participant or credited under the Plan (except as may be required by applicable local laws).

7.7 Term; Approval by Shareholders. No Option may be granted during any period of suspension of the Plan or after termination of the Plan. The Plan shall be submitted for the approval of the Company’s shareholders within 12 months after the date of the Board’s initial adoption of the Plan. Options may be granted prior to such shareholder approval; provided, however, that such Options shall not be exercisable prior to the time when the Plan is approved by the shareholders; provided, further that if such approval has not been obtained by the end of the 12-month period, all Options previously granted under the Plan shall thereupon terminate and be canceled and become null and void without being exercised.

7.8 Effect Upon Other Plans. The adoption of the Plan shall not affect any other compensation or incentive plans in effect for the Company, any Parent, any Subsidiary or any Affiliate. Nothing in the Plan shall be construed to limit the right of the Company, any Parent, any Subsidiary or any Affiliate (a) to establish any other forms of incentives or compensation for employees of the Company or any Parent, any Subsidiary or any Affiliate, or (b) to grant or assume Options other than under the Plan in connection with any proper corporate purpose, including, but not by way of limitation, the grant or assumption of options in connection with the acquisition, by purchase, lease, merger, amalgamation, combination, arrangement, consolidation or otherwise, of the business, shares or assets of any corporation, firm or association.

7.9 Conformity to Securities Laws. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan, the Plan and the participation in the Plan by any individual who is then subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act shall be subject to any additional limitations set forth in any applicable exemption rule under Section 16 of the Exchange Act (including any amendment to Rule 16b-3 of the Exchange Act) that are requirements for the application of such exemptive rule. To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Plan shall be deemed amended to the extent necessary to conform to such applicable exemptive rule.

7.10 Notice of Disposition of Shares. Each Participant shall give the Company prompt notice of any disposition or other transfer of any Shares, acquired pursuant to the exercise of an Option granted under the Section 423 Component, if such disposition or transfer is made (a) within two years after the applicable Grant Date or (b) within one year after the transfer of such Shares to such Participant upon exercise of such Option. The Company may direct that any certificates evidencing shares acquired pursuant to the Plan refer to such requirement.

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7.11 Tax Withholding. At the time of any taxable event that creates a withholding obligation for the Company or any Parent, Affiliate or Subsidiary, the Participant will make adequate provision for any Tax-Related Items. In their sole discretion, and except as otherwise determined by the Administrator, the Company or the Designated Company that employs or employed the Participant may satisfy their obligations to withhold Tax-Related Items by (a) withholding from the Participant’s wages or other compensation, (b) withholding a sufficient whole number of Shares otherwise issuable following exercise of the Option having an aggregate value sufficient to pay the Tax-Related Items required to be withheld with respect to the Option and/or shares, or (c) withholding from proceeds from the sale of Shares issued upon exercise of the Option, either through a voluntary sale or a mandatory sale arranged by the Company, or (d) any other method determined by the Administrator to be in compliance with applicable laws.

7.12 Governing Law. The Plan and all rights, agreements and obligations hereunder shall be administered, interpreted and enforced under the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to the conflict of law rules thereof or of any other jurisdiction.

7.13 Notices. All notices or other communications by a Participant to the Company under or in connection with the Plan shall be deemed to have been duly given when received in the form specified by the Company at the location, or by the person, designated by the Company for the receipt thereof.

7.14 Conditions to Issuance of Shares.

(a) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Company shall not be required to issue or deliver any certificates or make any book entries evidencing Shares pursuant to the exercise of an Option by a Participant, unless and until the Administrator has determined, with advice of counsel, that the issuance of such Shares is in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations of governmental authorities and, if applicable, the requirements of any securities exchange or automated quotation system on which the Shares are listed or traded, and the Shares are covered by an effective registration statement or applicable exemption from registration. In addition to the terms and conditions provided herein, the Administrator may require that a Participant make such reasonable covenants, agreements, and representations as the Administrator, in its discretion, deems advisable in order to comply with any such laws, regulations, or requirements.

(b) All certificates for Shares delivered pursuant to the Plan and all Shares issued pursuant to book entry procedures are subject to any stop-transfer orders and other restrictions as the Administrator deems necessary or advisable to comply with U.S. and non-U.S. federal, provincial, state or local securities or other laws, rules and regulations and the rules of any securities exchange or automated quotation system on which the Shares are listed, quoted, or traded. The Administrator may place legends on any certificate or book entry evidencing Shares to reference restrictions applicable to the Shares.

(c) The Administrator shall have the right to require any Participant to comply with any timing or other restrictions with respect to the settlement, distribution or exercise of any Option, including a window-period limitation, as may be imposed in the sole discretion of the Administrator.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan, unless otherwise determined by the Administrator or required by any applicable law, rule or regulation, the Company may, in lieu of delivering to any Participant certificates evidencing Shares issued in connection with any Option, record the issuance of Shares in the books of the Company (or, as applicable, its transfer agent or share plan administrator).

If, pursuant to this Section 7.14, the Administrator determines that Shares will not be issued to any Participant, the Company is relieved from liability to any Participant except to refund to the Participant such Participant’s Plan Account balance, without interest thereon (except as may be required by applicable local laws).

7.15 Equal Rights and Privileges. All Eligible Employees granted Options pursuant to an Offering under the Section 423 Component shall have equal rights and privileges under the Plan to the extent required under Section 423 of the Code so that the Section 423 Component qualifies as an “employee stock purchase plan” within the meaning of Section 423 of the Code. Any provision of the Section 423 Component that is inconsistent with Section 423 of the Code shall, without further act or amendment by the Company or the Board, be reformed to comply with the equal rights and privileges requirement of Section 423 of the Code. Eligible Employees participating in the Non-Section 423 Component need not have the same rights and privileges as each other, or as Eligible Employees participating in the Section 423 Component.

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7.16 Rules Particular to Specific Countries. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the terms and conditions of the Plan with respect to Participants who are tax residents of a particular non-U.S. country or who are non-U.S. nationals or employed in non-U.S. jurisdictions may be subject to an addendum to the Plan in the form of an appendix or sub-plan (which appendix or sub-plan may be designed to govern Offerings under the Section 423 Component or the Non-Section 423 Component, as determined by the Administrator). To the extent that the terms and conditions set forth in an appendix or sub-plan conflict with any provisions of the Plan, the provisions of the appendix or sub-plan shall govern. The adoption of any such appendix or sub-plan shall be pursuant to Section 7.1 above. Without limiting the foregoing, the Administrator is specifically authorized to adopt rules and procedures, with respect to Participants who are non-U.S. nationals or employed in non-U.S. jurisdictions, regarding the exclusion of particular Affiliates or Subsidiaries from participation in the Plan, eligibility to participate, the definition of Compensation, handling of payroll deductions or other contributions by Participants, payment of interest, conversion of local currency, data privacy security, payroll tax, withholding procedures, establishment of bank or trust accounts to hold payroll deductions or contributions, provided that the adoption and implementation of any such rules and/or procedures would not cause the Section 423 Component to be in noncompliance with Section 423 of the Code.

7.17 Section 409A. The Section 423 Component of the Plan and the Options granted pursuant to Offerings thereunder are intended to be exempt from the application of Section 409A. Neither the Non-Section 423 Component nor any Option granted pursuant to an Offering thereunder is intended to constitute or provide for “nonqualified deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A. Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, if the Administrator determines that any Option granted under the Plan may be or become subject to Section 409A or that any provision of the Plan may cause an Option granted under the Plan to be or become subject to Section 409A, the Administrator may adopt such amendments to the Plan and/or adopt other policies and procedures (including amendments, policies and procedures with retroactive effect), or take any other actions as the Administrator determines are necessary or appropriate to avoid the imposition of taxes under Section 409A, either through compliance with the requirements of Section 409A or through an available exemption therefrom.

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