we do not have employment or similar agreements with all of these individuals and there are no assurances that they will remain employed by their respective companies or devote sufficient time and attention to the operations of those entities. The loss of one or more of these key employees could have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition, and results of operations and the results of operations at these subsidiaries could be adversely impacted.
From time to time our subsidiaries in the PRC enter into transactions with related parties which include the purchase from or sale to of goods and products from related parties, and advancing these related parties significant sums as prepayments for future goods or services and working capital, among other transactions. We have in place policies and procedures which require the pre-approval of loans between these related parties. Notwithstanding these policies, we cannot assure you that in every instance the terms of the transactions with these various related parties are on terms as fair as we might receive from or extend to third parties.
Mr. Yuwei Huang, CEO, Chairman and minority shareholder of our Chang Magnesium subsidiary and an officer of certain other subsidiaries in our Magnesium segment, is the chairman of Taiyuan YiWei Magnesium Industry Co., Ltd. (“YiWei Magnesium”), a position he has held since founding that company in 1999 and he also serves in various positions with its affiliated companies. YiWei Magnesium, a minority owner of two of our subsidiaries Chang Magnesium and Golden Magnesium, owns interests in seven subsidiary magnesium factories, a magnesium alloy factory and a magnesium powder desulphurization reagent factory, all located in China, and is generally regarded as the
largest exporter for magnesium products in China and the second largest producer. Because these companies have similar operations relating to those of Chang Magnesium and Mr. Huang has operational control over competing companies, he is subject to certain inherent conflicts of interest. There can be no assurances that our business and operations will not be adversely impacted as a result of these conflicts of interest. The operations of the affiliated entities of Mr. Huang are expected to be phased out by no later than the end of 2008, but until that time, potential conflicts of interest could occur with Mr. Huang’s affiliated entities which may not be resolved to our benefit.
THE OPERATIONS OF OUR BASIC MATERIALS SEGMENT WILL BE SUBJECT TO RISKS AND HAZARDS INHERENT IN THE MINING INDUSTRY
Through our Basic Materials segment beginning in 2008 we will be involved in the mining and processing of zinc. These operations will become subject to risks and hazards inherent in the mining industry, including, but not limited to, unanticipated variations in grade and other geological problems, water conditions, surface or underground conditions, metallurgical and other processing problems, mechanical equipment performance problems, the lack of availability of materials and equipment, the occurrence of accidents, labor force disruptions, force majeure factors, unanticipated transportation costs, and weather conditions, any of which can materially and adversely affect, among other things, the development of properties, production quantities and rates, costs and expenditures and production commencement dates. The nature of these risks is such that liabilities may cause our company to incur substantial uninsured losses.
THE DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF A MINE OR MINERAL PROPERTY INVOLVES MANY RISKS
The development and operation of a mine or mineral property involve many risks, which even a combination of experience, knowledge and careful evaluation may not be able to be overcome. These risks include, among other things, ground fall, flooding, environmental hazards and the discharge of toxic chemicals, explosions and other accidents. Such occurrences may result in work stoppages, delays in production, increased production costs, damage to or destruction of mines and other producing facilities, injury or loss of life, damage to property, environmental damage and possible legal liability for such damages. The nature of these risks is such that liabilities may also cause our company to incur substantial uninsured losses.
RISKS RELATED TO DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA
A SUBSTANTIAL PORTION OF OUR ASSETS AND OPERATIONS ARE LOCATED IN THE PRC AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGES RESULTING FROM THE POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC POLICIES OF THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT.
Our business operations could be restricted by the political environment in the PRC. The PRC has operated as a socialist state since 1949 and is controlled by the Communist Party of China. In recent years, however, the government has introduced reforms aimed at creating a “socialist market economy” and policies have been implemented to allow business enterprises greater autonomy in their operations. Changes in the political leadership of the PRC may have a significant effect on laws and policies related to the current economic reform programs, other policies affecting business and the general political, economic and social environment in the PRC, including the introduction of measures to control inflation, changes in the rate or method of taxation, the imposition of additional restrictions on currency conversion and remittances abroad, and foreign investment. Moreover, economic reforms and growth in the PRC have been more successful in certain provinces than in others, and the continuation or increases of such disparities could affect the political or social stability of the PRC.
8
Although we believe that the economic reform and the macroeconomic measures adopted by the Chinese government have had a positive effect on the economic development of China, the future direction of these economic reforms is uncertain and the uncertainty may decrease the attractiveness of our company as an investment, which may in turn result in a decline in the trading price of our common stock.
WE CANNOT ASSURE YOU THAT THE CURRENT CHINESE POLICIES OF ECONOMIC REFORM WILL CONTINUE. BECAUSE OF THIS UNCERTAINTY, THERE ARE SIGNIFICANT ECONOMIC RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA.
Although the majority of productive assets in China are owned by the Chinese government, in the past several years the government has implemented economic reform measures that emphasize decentralization and encourage private economic activity. In keeping with these economic reform policies, the PRC has been openly promoting business development in order to bring more business into the PRC. Because these economic reform measures may be inconsistent or ineffective, there are no assurances that:
| • | the Chinese government will continue its pursuit of economic reform policies; |
| • | the economic policies, even if pursued, will be successful; |
| • | economic policies will not be significantly altered from time to time; or |
| • | business operations in China will not become subject to the risk of nationalization. |
We cannot assure you that we will be able to capitalize on these economic reforms, assuming the reforms continue. Because our business model is dependent upon the continued economic reform and growth in China, any change in Chinese government policy could materially adversely affect our ability to continue to implement our business model. China’s economy has experienced significant growth in the past decade, but such growth has been uneven across geographic and economic sectors and has recently been slowing. Even if the Chinese government continues its policies of economic reform, there are no assurances that economic growth in that country will continue or that we will be able to take advantage of these opportunities in a fashion that will provide financial benefit to our company.
THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT EXERTS SUBSTANTIAL INFLUENCE OVER THE MANNER IN WHICH OUR CHINESE SUBSIDIARIES MUST CONDUCT OUR BUSINESS ACTIVITIES.
The PRC only recently has permitted provincial and local economic autonomy and private economic activities. The government of the PRC has exercised and continues to exercise substantial control over virtually every sector of the Chinese economy through regulation and state ownership. Accordingly, government actions in the future, including any decision not to continue to support recent economic reforms and to return to a more centrally planned economy or regional or local variations in the implementation of economic policies, could have a significant effect on economic conditions in the PRC or particular regions thereof, and could require us to divest ourselves of any interest we then hold in Chinese subsidiaries.
FUTURE INFLATION IN CHINA MAY INHIBIT ECONOMIC ACTIVITY IN CHINA.
In recent years, the Chinese economy has experienced periods of rapid expansion and high rates of inflation. During the past 10 years, the rate of inflation in China has been as high as 20.7% and as low as -2.2%. These factors have led to the adoption by the PRC government, from time to time, of various corrective measures designed to restrict the availability of credit or regulate growth and contain inflation. While inflation has been more moderate since 1995, high inflation may in the future cause the PRC
9
government to impose controls on credit and/or prices, or to take other action, which could inhibit economic activity in China. Any actions by the PRC government to regulate growth and contain inflation could have the effect of limiting our ability to grow our revenues in future periods.
ANY RECURRENCE OF SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY SYNDROME, OR SARS, OR ANOTHER WIDESPREAD PUBLIC HEALTH PROBLEM, COULD INTERRUPT OUR OPERATIONS.
A renewed outbreak of SARS or another widespread public health problem in China could have a negative effect on our operations. Our operations may be impacted by a number of health-related factors, including the following:
| • | quarantines or closures of some of our offices which would severely disrupt our operations, |
| • | the sickness or death of our key employees, or |
| • | a general slowdown in the Chinese economy. |
Any of the foregoing events or other unforeseen consequences of public health problems could result in a loss of revenues in future periods and could impact our ability to conduct the operations of our Chinese subsidiaries as they are presently conducted. If we were unable to continue the operations of our Chinese subsidiaries as they are now conducted, our revenues in future periods would decline and our ability to continue as a going concern could be in jeopardy. If we were unable to continue as a going concern, you could lose your entire investment in our company.
RESTRICTIONS ON CURRENCY EXCHANGE MAY LIMIT OUR ABILITY TO RECEIVE AND USE OUR REVENUES EFFECTIVELY. WE MAY NOT HAVE READY ACCESS TO CASH ON DEPOSIT IN BANKS IN THE PRC.
Because a substantial portion of revenues are in the form of Renminbi (RMB), the main currency used in China , any future restrictions on currency exchanges may limit our ability to use revenue generated in RMB to fund any future business activities outside China or to make dividend or other payments in U.S. Dollars. Although the Chinese government introduced regulations in 1996 to allow greater convertibility of the RMB for current account transactions, significant restrictions still remain, including primarily the restriction that foreign-invested enterprises may only buy, sell or remit foreign currencies, after providing valid commercial documents, at those banks authorized to conduct foreign exchange business. In addition, conversion of RMB for capital account items, including direct investment and loans, is subject to government approval in China, and companies are required to open and maintain separate foreign exchange accounts for capital account items. At December 31, 2007 our PRC subsidiaries had approximately $10,452,000 on deposit in banks in China, which represented approximately 51% of our cash. We cannot be certain that we could have ready access to that cash should we wish to transfer it to bank accounts outside the PRC nor can we be certain that the Chinese regulatory authorities will not impose more stringent restrictions on the convertibility of the RMB, especially with respect to foreign exchange transactions.
WE MAY BE UNABLE TO ENFORCE OUR RIGHTS DUE TO POLICIES REGARDING THE REGULATION OF FOREIGN INVESTMENTS IN CHINA.
The PRC’s legal system is a civil law system based on written statutes in which decided legal cases have little value as precedents, unlike the common law system prevalent in the United States. The PRC does not have a well-developed, consolidated body of laws governing foreign investment enterprises. As a result, the administration of laws and regulations by government agencies may be
10
subject to considerable discretion and variation, and may be subject to influence by external forces unrelated to the legal merits of a particular matter. China’s regulations and policies with respect to foreign investments are evolving. Definitive regulations and policies with respect to such matters as the permissible percentage of foreign investment and permissible rates of equity returns have not yet been published. Statements regarding these evolving policies have been conflicting and any such policies, as administered, are likely to be subject to broad interpretation and discretion and to be modified, perhaps on a case-by-case basis. The uncertainties regarding such regulations and policies present risks which may affect our ability to achieve our stated business objectives. If we are unable to enforce any legal rights we may have under our contracts or otherwise, our ability to compete with other companies in our industry could be limited which could result in a loss of revenue in future periods which could impact our ability to continue as a going concern.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE UNITED STATES FOREIGN CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT COULD SUBJECT US TO PENALTIES AND OTHER ADVERSE CONSEQUENCES.
We are subject to the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which generally prohibits United States companies from engaging in bribery or other prohibited payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Corruption, extortion, bribery, pay-offs, theft and other fraudulent practices occur from time-to-time in the PRC. We can make no assurance, however, that our employees or other agents will not engage in such conduct for which we might be held responsible. If our employees or other agents are found to have engaged in such practices, we could suffer severe penalties and other consequences that may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
WE MAY HAVE DIFFICULTY ESTABLISHING ADEQUATE MANAGEMENT, LEGAL AND FINANCIAL CONTROLS IN THE PRC.
PRC companies have in some cases, been resistant to the adoption of Western styles of management and financial reporting concepts and practices, which include sufficient corporate governance, internal controls and, computer, financial and other control systems. In addition, we may have difficulty in hiring and retaining a sufficient number of qualified employees to work in the PRC. As a result of these factors, we may experience difficulties in establishing management, legal and financial controls, collecting financial data and preparing financial statements, books of account and corporate records and instituting business practices that meet Western standards with future acquisitions. Therefore, we may, in turn, experience difficulties in implementing and maintaining adequate internal controls. Any such deficiencies, weaknesses or lack of compliance could have an adverse effect on our business.
RISKS RELATED TO OUR COMMON STOCK
PROVISIONS OF OUR ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWS MAY DELAY OR PREVENT A TAKEOVER WHICH MAY NOT BE IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF OUR SHAREHOLDERS.
Provisions of our articles of incorporation and bylaws may be deemed to have anti-takeover effects, which include when and by whom special meetings of our shareholders may be called, and may delay, defer or prevent a takeover attempt. In addition, certain provisions of Florida law also may be deemed to have certain anti-takeover effects which include that control of shares acquired in excess of certain specified thresholds will not possess any voting rights unless these voting rights are approved by a majority of a corporation’s disinterested shareholders. In addition, our articles of incorporation authorizes the issuance of up to 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock with such rights and preferences as may be
11
determined by our Board of Director, of which 12,950 shares have been designated as our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and the remaining 9,987,050 shares remain without designation. Our Board of Directors may, without shareholder approval, issue preferred stock with dividends, liquidation, conversion or voting rights that could adversely affect the voting power or other rights of our common shareholders.
IF THE SELLING SHAREHOLDERS ALL ELECT TO SELL THEIR SHARES OF OUR COMMON STOCK AT THE SAME TIME, THE MARKET PRICE OF OUR SHARES MAY DECREASE.
It is possible that the selling shareholders will offer all of the shares for sale. Further, because it is possible that a significant number of shares of our common stock could be sold at the same time hereunder, the sales, or the possibility thereof, may have a depressive effect on the market price for our common stock.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This prospectus contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements were based on various factors and were derived utilizing numerous assumptions and other factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the risk of doing business in the PRC, our ability to implement our strategic initiatives, our access to sufficient capital, the effective integration of our subsidiaries in the PRC into a U.S. public company structure, economic, political and market conditions and fluctuations, government and industry regulation, Chinese and global competition, and other factors. Most of these factors are difficult to predict accurately and are generally beyond our control. You should consider the areas of risk described in connection with any forward-looking statements that may be made herein. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and readers should carefully review this report in its entirety, including the risks described in “Risk Factors.” Except for our ongoing obligations to disclose material information under the Federal securities laws, we undertake no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements, to report events or to report the occurrence of unanticipated events. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this prospectus, and you should not rely on these statements without also considering the risks and uncertainties associated with these statements and our business.
USE OF PROCEEDS
We will not receive any proceeds from the sales of the common stock offered by this prospectus. If, and when, the warrants are exercised by the selling shareholders, and providing that the warrants are exercised on a cash basis, the proceeds from the exercise of the warrants shall be used by us for general corporate purposes.
SELLING SHAREHOLDERS
The shares of common stock offered by the selling shareholders are issuable upon exercise of the warrants, upon conversion of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and in payment of dividends on the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. For additional information regarding the issuance of those warrants and shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, see “Summary of the Offering” above.
12
We are registering the shares of common stock in order to permit the selling shareholders to offer the shares for resale from time to time. Certain of the selling shareholders have invested in securities offerings we have conducted in the past. These investments were negotiated on an arms length basis and were on the same terms and conditions as other investors in those offerings. Except for such participation and the ownership of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and warrants issued pursuant to the Securities Purchase Agreement, the selling shareholders have not had any material relationship with us within the past three years.
The table below lists the selling shareholders and other information regarding the beneficial ownership of the shares of common stock by each of the selling shareholders. The first column lists the number of shares of common stock beneficially owned by each selling shareholder, based on its ownership of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and warrants, as of April 2, 2008, assuming conversion of all shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and exercise of the warrants held by the selling shareholders on that date, without regard to any limitations on conversions or exercise.
The second column lists the shares of common stock being offered by this prospectus by the selling shareholders.
In accordance with the terms of a Registration Rights Agreement with the selling shareholders, this prospectus generally covers the resale of 130% of the sum of:
(i) number of shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock as of the trading day immediately preceding the date the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part is initially filed with the SEC,
(ii) the number of shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the related warrants as of the trading day immediately preceding the date the registration statement is initially filed with the SEC; and
(iii) the maximum number of dividend shares issued or issuable from the closing date through the fifth anniversary of the closing date pursuant to the terms of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock calculated as of the trading day immediately preceding the date the registration statement is initially filed with the SEC.
Because the conversion price of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and the exercise price of the warrants may be adjusted, the number of shares that will actually be issued may be more or less than the number of shares being offered by this prospectus. The third column assumes the sale of all of the shares offered by the selling shareholders pursuant to this prospectus.
Under the terms of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and the warrants, a selling shareholder may not convert the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock or exercise the warrants to the extent such conversion or exercise would cause such selling shareholder, together with its affiliates, to beneficially own a number of shares of common stock which would exceed 4.99% of our then outstanding shares of common stock following such conversion or exercise, excluding for purposes of such determination shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock which have not been converted and upon exercise of the warrants which have not been exercised. The number of shares in the first column does not reflect this limitation. The selling shareholders may sell all, some or none of their shares in this offering. See “Plan of Distribution.”
13
Name of Selling Shareholder | | Number of Shares of Common Stock Owned Prior to Offering | | Maximum Number of Shares of Common Stock to be Sold Pursuant to this Prospectus | | Number of Shares of Common Stock Owned After Offering | | Percentage to be owned after offering | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Hudson Bay Fund LP (1) | | 285,000 | | 444,706 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Hudson Bay Overseas Fund Ltd. (2) | | 465,000 | | 725,573 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Liberty Harbor Master Fund I, L.P. (3) | | 750,000 | | 1,170,279 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Cranshire Capital, L.P. (4) | | 600,000 | | 936,223 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Portside Growth & Opportunity Fund (5) | | 350,000 | | 546,130 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Whitebox Intermarket Partners, LP (6) | | 250,000 | | 390,093 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Enable Growth Partners LP (7) | | 170,000 | | 265,263 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Enable Opportunity Fund L.P. (8) | | 20,000 | | 31,207 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Pierce Diversified Strategy Master Fund LLC, Ena (9) | | 10,000 | | 15,604 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Harborview Master Fund, L.P. (10) | | 200,000 | | 312,074 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Ellis International, L.P. (11) | | 200,000 | | 312,074 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Alpha Capital Anstalt (12) | | 200,000 | | 312,074 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Whalehaven Capital Fund Limited (13) | | 162,500 | | 156,037 | | 62,500 | | * | |
CMS Capital (14) | | 100,000 | | 156,037 | | 0 | | n/a | |
Totals | | | | 5,773,374 | | | | | |
(1) Hudson Bay Fund LP is the record holder of 997.5 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 142,500 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 259,456 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares , and (ii) 185,250 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Sander Gerber, Yoav Roth and John Doscas share voting and investment power over these securities. Each of Sander Gerber, Yoav Roth and John Doscas disclaim beneficial ownership over the securities held by Hudson Bay Fund LP. The selling shareholder acquired the securities offered for its own account in the ordinary course of business, and at the time it acquired the securities, it had no agreements, plans or understandings, directly or indirectly to distribute the securities.
(2) Hudson Bay Overseas Fund Ltd. is the record holder of 1,627.5 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 232,500 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 423,323 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 302,250 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Sander Gerber, Yoav Roth and John Doscas share voting and investment power over these securities. Each of Sander Gerber, Yoav Roth and John Doscas disclaim beneficial ownership over the securities held by Hudson Bay Overseas Fund LTD. The selling shareholder acquired the securities offered for its own account in the ordinary course of business, and at the time it acquired the securities, it had no agreements, plans or understandings, directly or indirectly to distribute the securities.
14
(3) Liberty Harbor Master Fund I, L.P. is the record holder of 2,625 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 375,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 682,779 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 487,500 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Liberty Harbor Master Fund I, L.P.. is an affiliate of Goldman Sachs & Co. The investment manager of Liberty Harbor Master Fund I, L.P. is GS Investment Strategies, LLC. No individual within GS Investment Strategies, LLC has sole voting and investment power with respect to the securities.
(4) Cranshire Capital, L.P. is the record holder of 2,100 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 300,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 546,223 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 390,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Mr. Mitchell P. Kopin, the president of Downsview Capital, Inc., the general partner of Cranshire Capital, L.P, has sole voting control and investment discretion over securities held by Cranshire Capital, L.P. Each of Mr. Mitchell P. Kopin and Downsview Capital, Inc. disclaim beneficial ownership of the securities held by Cranshire Capital, L.P.
(5) Portside Growth & Opportunity Fund is the record holder of 1,225 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 175,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 318,630 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 227,500 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Ramius LLC (“Ramius”) is the investment adviser of Portside Growth & Opportunity Fund and consequently has voting control and investment discretion over securities held by Portside Growth & Opportunity Fund. Ramius disclaims beneficial ownership of these securities. C4S & Co., L.L.C. (“C4S”) is the managing member of Ramius and may be considered the beneficial owner of any securities deemed to be beneficially owned by Ramius. C4S disclaims beneficial ownership of these securities. Peter A. Cohen, Morgan B. Stark, Thomas W. Strauss and Jeffrey M. Solomon are the sole managing members of C4S and may be considered beneficial owners of any securities deemed to be beneficially owned by C4S. Messrs. Cohen, Stark, Strauss and Solomon disclaim beneficial ownership of these securities. An affiliate of Ramius is a registered broker-dealer. However, this affiliate will not sell any securities offered by Portside Growth & Opportunity Fund through this prospectus and will receive no compensation whatsoever in connection with the sale of securities by Portside Growth & Opportunity Fund through this prospectus.
(6) Whitebox Intermarket Partners, LP is the record holder of 875 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 125,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 227,593 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 162,500 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Whitebox Intermarket Partners, LP is managed by Whitebox Intermarket Advisors LLC, which is managed by Whitebox Advisors, LLC. Mr. Andrew Leaf has sole voting and investment power with respect to these shares of common stock.
(7) Enable Growth Partners LP is the record holder of 595 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 85,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 154,763 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred
15
Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 110,500 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Enable Growth Partners LP is managed by Enable Capital Management LLC. Mr. Mitch Levine is the managing partner of Enable Capital Management LLC and is also a principal in Enable Growth Partners LP’s general partner. The number of shares owned by Enable Growth Partners LP excludes any securities owned by Enable Opportunity Partners LP or Pierce Diversified Strategy Master Fund LLC, Ena that are also offered under this prospectus. Enable Capital Management LLC also manages both Enable Opportunity Partners LP and Pierce Diversified Strategy Master Fund LLC, Ena and Mr. Levine also has the power to vote or dispose of such securities.
(8) Enable Opportunity Partners LP is the record holder of 70 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 10,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 18,207 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 13,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Enable Opportunity Partners LP is managed by Enable Capital Management LLC. Mr. Mitch Levine is the managing partner of Enable Capital Management LLC. The number of shares owned by Enable Opportunity Partners LP excludes any securities owned by either Enable Growth Partners LP or Pierce Diversified Strategy Master Fund LLC that are also offered under this prospectus. Enable Capital Management LLC also manages Enable Growth Partners LP and Pierce Diversified Strategy Master Fund LLC and Mr. Levine also has the power to vote or dispose of such securities.
(9) Pierce Diversified Strategy Master Fund LLC, Ena is the record holder of 35 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 5,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 9,104 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 6,500 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Pierce Diversified Strategy Master Fund LLC, Ena, is managed by Enable Capital Management LLC. Mr. Mitch Levine is the managing partner of Enable Capital Management LLC. The number of shares owned by Pierce Diversified Strategy Master Fund LLC excludes any securities owned by either Enable Growth Partners LP or Enable Opportunity Partners LP t hat are also offered under this prospectus. Enable Capital Management LLC also manages Enable Growth Partners LP and Enable Opportunity Partners LP and Mr. Levine also has the power to vote or dispose of such securities.
(10) Harborview Master Fund L.P. is the record holder of 700 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 100,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 182,074 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 130,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Harborview Master Fund L.P. is a master fund in a master-feeder structure whose general partner is Harborview Advisors LLC. Messrs. Richard Rosenblum and David Stefansky are the managers of Harborview Advisors LLC and have ultimate responsibility for trading with respect to Harborview Master Fund L.P., and in accordance with Rule 13d-3 under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as amended may be deemed to be control persons with voting and investment control (directly or with others), of our securities owned by Harborview Master Fund L.P. Messrs. Rosenblum and Stefansky disclaim beneficial ownership of the shares being registered hereunder.
(11) Ellis International, L.P. is the record holder of 700 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 100,000 shares of our common stock
16
at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 182,074 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 130,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Mr. Wilhelm Unger has voting and dispositive control over securities held by Ellis International, Ltd.
(12) Alpha Capital Anstalt is the record holder of 700 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 100,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 182,074 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 130,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Messrs. Konrad Ackerman and Rainer Posch have voting and dispositive control over securities held by Alpha Capital Anstalt.
(13) Whalehaven Capital Fund Limited is the record holder of 62,500 shares of our common stock, 350 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 50,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 91,037 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 65,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Mr. Brian Mazzella is the chief financial officer of Whalehaven Capital Fund Limited and, in such capacity, may be deemed to have voting and dispositive power over the securities held for the account of Whalehaven Capital Fund Limited.
(14) CMS Capital is the record holder of 350 shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock together with a common stock purchase warrant to purchase 50,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. The number of shares offered includes up to (i) 91,037 shares which are issuable upon the conversion of the shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and as dividend payments on those shares, and (ii) 65,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants. Mr. Howard Weiss has voting and dispositive control over securities held by CMS Capital.
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
We are registering the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, upon exercise of the warrants and in payment of dividends on the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock to permit the resale of these shares of common stock by the holders of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and warrants from time to time after the date of this prospectus. We will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale by the selling shareholders of the shares of common stock. We will bear all fees and expenses incident to our obligation to register the shares of common stock.
The selling shareholders may sell all or a portion of the shares of common stock beneficially owned by them and offered hereby from time to time directly or through one or more underwriters, broker-dealers or agents. If the shares of common stock are sold through underwriters or broker-dealers, the selling shareholders will be responsible for underwriting discounts or commissions or agent’s commissions. The shares of common stock may be sold in one or more transactions at fixed prices, at prevailing market prices at the time of the sale, at varying prices determined at the time of sale, or at negotiated prices. These sales may be effected in transactions, which may involve crosses or block transactions,
17
| • | on any national securities exchange or quotation service on which the securities may be listed or quoted at the time of sale; |
| • | in the over-the-counter market; |
| • | in transactions otherwise than on these exchanges or systems or in the over-the-counter market; |
| • | through the writing of options, whether such options are listed on an options exchange or otherwise; |
| • | ordinary brokerage transactions and transactions in which the broker-dealer solicits purchasers; |
| • | block trades in which the broker-dealer will attempt to sell the shares as agent but may position and resell a portion of the block as principal to facilitate the transaction; |
| • | purchases by a broker-dealer as principal and resale by the broker-dealer for its account; |
| • | an exchange distribution in accordance with the rules of the applicable exchange; |
| • | privately negotiated transactions; |
| • | sales pursuant to Rule 144; |
| • | broker-dealers may agree with the selling shareholders to sell a specified number of such shares at a stipulated price per share; |
| • | a combination of any such methods of sale; and |
| • | any other method permitted pursuant to applicable law. |
If the selling shareholders effect such transactions by selling shares of common stock to or through underwriters, broker-dealers or agents, such underwriters, broker-dealers or agents may receive commissions in the form of discounts, concessions or commissions from the selling shareholders or commissions from purchasers of the shares of common stock for whom they may act as agent or to whom they may sell as principal (which discounts, concessions or commissions as to particular underwriters, broker-dealers or agents may be in excess of those customary in the types of transactions involved). In connection with sales of the shares of common stock or otherwise, the selling shareholders may enter into hedging transactions with broker-dealers, which may in turn engage in short sales of the shares of common stock in the course of hedging in positions they assume. The selling shareholders may also sell shares of common stock short and deliver shares of common stock covered by this prospectus to close out short positions and to return borrowed shares in connection with such short sales. The selling shareholders may also loan or pledge shares of common stock to broker-dealers that in turn may sell such shares.
The selling shareholders may pledge or grant a security interest in some or all of the convertible preferred shares, warrants or shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the convertible preferred, exercise of the warrants and in payment of dividend on the preferred shares owned by them and, if they default in the performance of their secured obligations, the pledgees or secured parties may offer and sell the shares of common stock from time to time pursuant to this prospectus or any amendment to this prospectus under Rule 424(b)(3) or other applicable provision of the Securities Act of 1933, amending, if necessary, the list of selling shareholders to include the pledgee, transferee or other successors in interest as selling shareholders under this prospectus. The selling shareholders also may transfer and donate the shares of common stock in other circumstances in which case the transferees, donees, pledgees or other successors in interest will be the selling beneficial owners for purposes of this prospectus.
The selling shareholders and any broker-dealer participating in the distribution of the shares of common stock may be deemed to be “underwriters” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, and any commission paid, or any discounts or concessions allowed to, any such broker-dealer may be deemed to be underwriting commissions or discounts under the Securities Act of 1933. At the time a particular
18
offering of the shares of common stock is made, a prospectus supplement, if required, will be distributed which will set forth the aggregate amount of shares of common stock being offered and the terms of the offering, including the name or names of any broker-dealers or agents, any discounts, commissions and other terms constituting compensation from the selling shareholders and any discounts, commissions or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to broker-dealers.
Under the securities laws of some states, the shares of common stock may be sold in such states only through registered or licensed brokers or dealers. In addition, in some states the shares of common stock may not be sold unless such shares have been registered or qualified for sale in such state or an exemption from registration or qualification is available and is complied with.
There can be no assurance that any selling shareholder will sell any or all of the shares of common stock registered pursuant to the registration statement, of which this prospectus forms a part.
The selling shareholders and any other person participating in such distribution will be subject to applicable provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the rules and regulations thereunder, including, without limitation, Regulation M of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which may limit the timing of purchases and sales of any of the shares of common stock by the selling shareholders and any other participating person. Regulation M may also restrict the ability of any person engaged in the distribution of the shares of common stock to engage in market-making activities with respect to the shares of common stock. All of the foregoing may affect the marketability of the shares of common stock and the ability of any person or entity to engage in market-making activities with respect to the shares of common stock.
We will pay all expenses of the registration of the shares of common stock pursuant to the registration rights agreement, estimated to be $82,000 in total, including, without limitation, SEC filing fees and expenses of compliance with state securities or “blue sky” laws; provided, however, that a selling shareholder will pay all underwriting discounts and selling commissions, if any. We will indemnify the selling shareholders against liabilities, including some liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, in accordance with the registration rights agreements, or the selling shareholders will be entitled to contribution. We may be indemnified by the selling shareholders against civil liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, that may arise from any written information furnished to us by the selling shareholder specifically for use in this prospectus, in accordance with the related registration rights agreement, or we may be entitled to contribution.
Once sold under the registration statement, of which this prospectus forms a part, the shares of common stock will be freely tradable in the hands of persons other than our affiliates.
LEGAL MATTERS
The validity of the securities offered by this prospectus will be passed upon for us by Schneider Weinberger & Beilly LLP.
EXPERTS
Our audited consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 included in this prospectus have been audited by Sherb & Co., LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, as indicated in their report with respect thereto, and have been so included in reliance upon the report of such firm given on their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
19
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE
The SEC allows us to “incorporate by reference” the information we file with them, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this prospectus, and later information filed with the SEC will update and supersede this information. We incorporate by reference the documents listed below, any of such documents filed since the date this registration statement was filed and any future filings with the SEC under Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 until the offering is completed.
| • | our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, |
| • | a Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on March 31, 2008, |
| • | a second Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on March 31, 2008, and |
| • | a Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on April 2, 2008. |
This prospectus may contain information that updates, modifies or is contrary to information in one or more of the documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus. Reports we file with the SEC after the date of this prospectus may also contain information that updates, modifies or is contrary to information in this prospectus or in documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus. Investors should review these reports as they may disclose a change in our business, prospects, financial condition or other affairs after the date of this prospectus.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
We have filed a registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933 with the SEC with respect to the shares to be sold by the selling shareholders. This prospectus has been filed as part of the registration statement. This prospectus does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement because certain parts of the registration statement are omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC.
Upon your written or oral request, we will provide to each person, including any beneficial owner, to whom a copy of this prospectus is delivered at no cost to the requested a copy of any and all of the information that has been incorporated by reference in this prospectus but not delivered with this prospectus. Requests for such documents should be directed to Corporate Secretary, China Direct, Inc., 431 Fairway Drive, Deerfield Beach, Florida 33441, telephone number (954) 363-7330.
We file annual, quarterly and other reports and information with the SEC. You may read and copy any materials that we file at the SEC’s Public Reference Room, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC also maintains a website at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers such as our company that file electronically with the SEC.
20
COMMISSION POSITION ON INDEMNIFICATION FOR SECURITIES ACT LIABILITIES
Under our articles of incorporation, our directors are not liable for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty, except in connection with:
| • | a breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to us or our shareholders; |
| • | acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct, fraud or a knowing violation of law; |
| • | a transaction from which our director received an improper benefit; or |
| • | an act or omission for which the liability of a director is expressly provided under Florida law. |
In addition, our bylaws provides that we must indemnify our officers and directors to the fullest extent permitted by Florida law for all expenses incurred in the settlement of any actions against such persons in connection with their having served as officers or directors.
Insofar as the limitation of, or indemnification for, liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers, or persons controlling us pursuant to the foregoing, or otherwise, we have been advised that, in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission, such limitation or indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is, therefore, unenforceable.
21
TABLE OF CONTENTS |
| | |
| Page | |
| | |
Prospectus Summary | 2 | |
| | |
Summary of the Offering | 3 | |
| | |
Risk Factors | 4 | CHINA DIRECT, INC. |
| | |
Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information | 12 | PROSPECTUS |
| | |
Use of Proceeds | 12 | |
| | |
Selling Shareholders | 12 | |
| | |
Plan of Distribution | 17 | |
| | |
Legal Matters | 19 | |
| | |
Experts | 19 | April 23, 2008 |
| | |
Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference | 20 | 5,773,374 Shares of Common Stock |
| | |
Where You Can Find Additional Information | 20 | |
| | |
Commission Position on Indemnification for Securities Act Liabilities | 21 | |