SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a)
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Soliciting Material Pursuant to 240.14a-12
VALIDIAN CORPORATION
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
____________________________N/A____________________________
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VALIDIAN CORPORATION
To the Stockholders of Validian Corporation:
The Company’s 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders has been called for10:00 a.m. EDT on Thursday, October 4, 2007 at 30 Metcalfe Street, 6th Floor, Ottawa, Ontario CANADA.
You are requested to participate in person or by proxy by voting on the matters presented for action at the meeting as described in the attached Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement. The Company’s business strategy and progress will be reviewed at the meeting. Directors and officers will be participating and available to respond to stockholder inquiries.
The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10KSB/A for the year ended December 31, 2006, and Form 10QSB for the quarter ended June 30, 2007 are enclosed as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The reports include an overview of the Company’s business, an outline of risk factors, and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis or Plan of Operation.” Such presentations discuss the Company’s business strategy and operations that are expected to underlie the Company’s prospects for growth and value.
We cordially invite you to attend the meeting. Your support is important and we encourage you to vote “yes” on the agenda items. Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, please sign, date, and return the enclosed proxy promptly in the envelope provided. If you attend the meeting, you may, at your discretion, withdraw the proxy and vote in person.
Thank you for your time and consideration to respond to this request.
Sincerely,
Bruce Benn
Chairman of the Board of Directors
On Behalf of the Board of Directors
and Management of the Company
Enclosures
August 27, 2007
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VALIDIAN CORPORATION
NOTICE OF THE
ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON October 4, 2007
To the Stockholders of Validian Corporation:
We hereby give you notice that the 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Meeting”) of Validian Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “Company”), will be held on October 4, 2007, at 10:00 a.m.EDT at 30 Metcalfe Street, 6th Floor, Ottawa, Ontario Canada for the purpose of considering and voting upon the following matters:
1.
To elect two (2) directors of the Company;
2.
To consider and vote upon a proposal to amend the Company’s Restated Articles of Incorporation, to increase the number of shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”), authorized for issuance from 100,000,000 to 300,000,000 and to increase the number of the Company’s preferred stock from 7,000,000 to 50,000,000.
3.
To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve the Company’s 2004 Amended Incentive Equity Plan, which amends and restates the Company’s 2004 Incentive Equity Plan to, among other things increase the maximum number of stock options that may be granted from 3,087,698 to 6,087,698 and to increase the maximum number of stock options that may be granted to any one participant from 2,000,000 to 3,000,000. There are additional amendments that will bring the 2004 Amended Incentive Equity Plan into compliance with current regulations. The approval of this proposal is contingent on the approval by the stockholders of Proposal 2.
4.
To consider and act upon a proposal to ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as independent certified public accountants of the Company for 2007; and
5.
To transact such other business as may properly come before the Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
Your board of directors recommends that you vote “FOR” the nominees to the board and the other proposals set before you. We have fixed the close of business on August 7, 2007, as the record date for the Meeting, and only holders of Common Stock of record at that date are entitled to receive notice of, and to vote at the Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof. At the record date, 47,567,597 shares of Common Stock were issued and outstanding.
WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE MEETING, PLEASE PROMPTLY COMPLETE, DATE, SIGN AND RETURN THE ENCLOSED PROXY IN THE ACCOMPANYING ENVELOPE. NO POSTAGE IS REQUIRED IF THE PROXY IS MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES. PROXIES FORWARDED BY OR FOR BROKERS OR FIDUCIARIES SHOULD BE RETURNED AS REQUESTED BY THEM. BY PROMPTLY RETURNING YOUR PROXY, YOU WILL SAVE THE EXPENSE INVOLVED WITH FURTHER COMMUNICATION. IF YOU ATTEND THE MEETING, YOU MAY VOTE IN PERSON EVEN IF YOU HAVE RETURNED A PROXY.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Bruce Benn
Chairman of the Board of Directors,
Chief Executive Officer and President
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
August 27, 2007
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VALIDIAN CORPORATION
30 Metcalfe Street, Suite 600
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1P 5L4
(613) 230-7211
PROXY STATEMENT
FOR THE
ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON October 4, 2007
This Proxy Statement accompanies the Notice (the “Notice”) of the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Validian Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “Company”), and is furnished in connection with the solicitation by the board of directors of the Company of proxies to be voted at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company (the “Meeting”) and at any and all adjournments or postponements of such Meeting. The Meeting is to be held on October 4, 2007, at 30 Metcalfe Street, 6th Floor, Ottawa, Ontario Canada. The record date for determining stockholders entitled to vote at the annual meeting is August 7, 2007.
The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-KSB/A for the year ended December 31, 2006 and the Form 10QSB for the quarter ended June 30, 2007 are being mailed to stockholders with the mailing of the Notice of Meeting and this Proxy Statement. The Notice of Meeting, this Proxy Statement, the Annual Report, the Form 10QSB and the enclosed proxy are being first mailed or delivered to stockholders on or about August 30, 2007
The Company will bear the cost of the solicitation of proxies, including the charges and expenses of brokerage firms and others who forward solicitation material to beneficial owners of the Company’s Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”). In addition to the solicitation of proxies by mail, proxies may also be solicited by telephone, telegram or personal communication by officers and other personnel of the Company.
At the Meeting, holders of the Common Stock will vote upon the proposals set forth in this Proxy Statement. We have presented the following questions and answers section to provide you answers to commonly asked questions.
ABOUT THE MEETING
When and where is the Meeting?
Our annual meeting will take place on October 4, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. EDT at 30 Metcalfe Street, 6th Floor, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
What will be voted on at the Meeting?
Stockholders will vote upon the following matters: (1) the election of nominees to the board of directors; (2) an amendment to the Company’s Restated Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of shares of Common Stock authorized for issuance and to increase the number of shares of Preferred Stock authorized for issuance; (3) the Company’s 2004 Amended Incentive Equity Plan, which amends and restates the Company’s 2004 Incentive Equity Plan; (4) the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as the independent certified public accountants of the Company; and (5) such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
What information will I receive?
Copies of (a) our Annual Report on Form 10-KSB/A for the year ended December 31, 2006 and the Form 10QSB for the quarter ended June 30, 2007, (b) the Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders, (c) this Proxy Statement, and (d) the enclosed proxy card are being mailed or delivered in a single envelope to stockholders.
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Who can attend the Meeting?
All holders of our Common Stock outstanding as of the record date, or their duly appointed proxies, may attend the Meeting.
If you hold your shares in “street name,” that is, through a broker of other nominee, you will need to bring a copy of a brokerage or other nominee statement reflecting your stock ownership as of the record date and check in at the registration desk at the Meeting. You cannot vote these shares unless you also bring a broker issued proxy as discussed below.
Who can vote at the Meeting?
Only stockholders of record as of the close of business on August 7, 2007 (the “Record Date”) will be entitled to vote at the Meeting and any adjournment or postponement thereof. As of the Record Date, there were 47,567,597 shares of the Company’s Common Stock issued and outstanding.
How do I vote?
If you hold your shares as a stockholder of record, you can vote by proxy or in person at the Meeting. To vote by proxy you should mark, date, sign and mail the enclosed proxy card in the enclosed prepaid envelope. The proxies identified on the back of the proxy card will vote the shares of which you are a stockholder of record in accordance with your instructions. Giving a proxy will not affect your right to vote in person but by voting in person you automatically revoke your proxy. You also may revoke your proxy at any time before the voting by giving the Secretary of the Company written notice of your revocation or by submitting a later-dated proxy. If you execute, date and return your proxy, but do not mark your voting preference, the shares represented by proxy will be voted as recommended by the board of directors. Thus, if no directions are given, the proxy will be voted FOR the proposals.
Many of our stockholders hold their stock in “street name.” To hold shares in “street name” means that the shares are registered in the name of their broker, bank or other nominee rather in the stockholders own name. The street name holder should provide to you, along with these proxy solicitation materials that we have provided to the street name holder, the street name holder’s own request for voting instructions. By completing the voting instruction card, you may direct your street name holder how to vote your shares. Alternatively, if you want to vote your street name shares at the Meeting, you must contact your broker directly in order to obtain a proxy card issued to you by your street name holder. A broker letter that identifies you as a stockholder is not the same as a broker issued proxy. If you hold your shares in street name and you fail to bring a broker issued proxy to the M eeting, you will not be able to vote your shares at the Meeting.
If you hold your shares in street name through a broker or other nominee, your broker or nominee will not be permitted to exercise voting discretion with respect to certain matters to be acted upon. Thus, if you do not give your broker or nominee specific instructions, your shares may not be voted on those matters and will not be counted in determining the number of shares necessary for approval. Shares represented by these “broker non-votes” will, however, be counted in determining whether there is a quorum present at the Meeting.
How many votes can I cast?
Each stockholder of record as of the Record Date is entitled to one vote at the Meeting for each share of Common Stock held.
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Can I change my vote after I return my proxy card?
Yes. Even after you have submitted your proxy card, you may change your vote at any time before the proxy is exercised by filing with the Secretary of the Company either a notice of revocation or a proxy that you have executed bearing a later date. If you hold your shares in street name and you would like to vote your shares at the Meeting, you will also need to bring with you a legal proxy from your broker. The powers of the proxy holders will be suspended as to your shares if you attend the Meeting in person and so request, although attendance at the annual meeting will not by itself revoke a previously granted proxy.
What happens if the annual meeting is postponed or adjourned?
If the Meeting is postponed or adjourned for any reason, at any subsequent reconvening of the Meeting all proxies will be voted in the same manner as the proxies would have been voted at the original convening of the Meeting. However, proxies may be revoked or withdrawn in the manner we describe above prior to the reconvened Meeting even if they have been voted on the same or any other matter at the postponed Meeting.
What constitutes a quorum and how does it affect voting on the proposals?
Voting can take place at the Meeting only if stockholders owning a majority of the shares issued and outstanding and entitled to vote thereat, as of the Record Date are present in person or represented by proxy. If you submit a valid proxy card or attend the Meeting, your shares will be counted to determine whether there is a quorum. Both abstentions and broker non-votes are counted as present for purposes of establishing the quorum necessary for the Meeting to proceed.
What are the board’s recommendations?
Unless you give other instructions on your proxy card, the persons named as proxy holders on the proxy card will vote in accordance with the recommendation of the board of directors. The board’s recommendations are set forth below together with the description of the proposals in this proxy statement. The board recommends a vote in favor of the election of two directors to serve one-year terms or until their successors are duly qualified and elected. The board of directors has unanimously nominated these persons for election as directors. The board also recommends a vote in favor of our amended 2004 Amended Incentive Equity Plan. The board also recommends a vote in favor of the amendment to our Restated Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock and to increase the number of authorized shares of Preferred Stock. The Board of Directors has unanimously approved each of the 2004 Amended Incentive Equity Plan and the Charter amendment, subject to stockholder approval. Additionally, the board recommends a vote in favor of the ratification of KPMG LLP as our independent auditor for 2007.
With respect to any other matters that properly come before the Meeting, the proxy holders will vote as recommended by the board of directors, or, if no recommendation is given, in their own discretion. The board of directors does not know of any other business to be presented at the Meeting.
How are abstentions and broker non-votes treated?
Brokers and other nominee holders holding shares of record for their customers generally are not entitled to vote on certain matters unless they receive voting instructions from their customers. “Broker non-votes” means those votes that could have been cast on the matter in question by brokers and other nominee holders with respect to uninstructed shares if the brokers and other nominee holders had received their customers’ instructions. “Uninstructed shares” means those shares (i) held by a broker or other nominee who has not received instructions from its customers on the matters and (ii) the broker or other nominee has so notified the Company on a proxy form in accordance with industry practice or has otherwise advised the Company that the nominee lacks voting authority.
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The effect of broker non-votes and abstentions is described below in “Proposal 1: Election of Directors”, “Proposal 2: Approval of the Company’s 2004 Amended Incentive Equity Plan”, “Proposal 3: Amendment to Restated Articles of Incorporation to Increase Authorized Shares”, and “Proposal 4: Ratification of Auditors”.
Do stockholders have any appraisal rights?
No, stockholders do not have any appraisal rights with respect to the matters to be voted upon at the Meeting.
PROPOSAL 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
In accordance with our Amended By-Laws and Restated Articles of Incorporation, the directors are elected to one-year terms and hold office until their successors are duly elected and qualified. Each of our two directors is nominated for election in 2007. The following table presents information concerning our directors who are being nominated for terms expiring at the annual meeting of stockholders in 2008. Each nominee has consented to serve as a director, if elected.
Nominees for Election
Bruce I. Benn, 53,joined our Company in 1999 and has been a Director, President, Chief Executive Officer since April 2005 and in addition to these positions has been Secretary since February 2004. Prior to this he was a Director, Executive Vice President and Secretary since February 2004. He oversees key management and strategic decisions as well as all aspects of corporate finance and has been principally responsible for arranging the $22 million of capital for the Company from 1999 to date. Since 1989, he is the President, Director and co-founder of Capital House Corporation, a boutique investment bank that has provided and/or arranged early and mid stage venture capital and hands-on managerial assistance to a portfolio of leading technology software companies. Mr. Benn was also a founder, Director and Officer of DevX Energy, Inc. from 1995 until it was sold to Comstock Resources Inc. in 2001 for over $120 million. From 1980 to 1993, he was with Corporation House Ltd., where he was a Vice President and a Director from 1985 to 1993. He is an attorney and holds a Masters of Law degree from the University of London, England, a Baccalaureate of Laws from the University of Ottawa, Canada, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada.
Ronald I. Benn, 52,was appointed a Director, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer in February 2004. Prior to this he was Chief Financial Officer of Coast Software, a position he held since September 2000 and where he was directly involved in raising more than $7 million in capital. From 1995 to June 30, 2007, he was a Director of Telemus Electronics. From 1995 until 2000 he was Chief Financial Officer of DevX Energy, Inc., a former publicly traded company on the NASDAQ exchange. He is a co-founder, Officer and Director of Capital House Corporation since 1989. He has over 20 years’ experience in senior finance positions, having begun his career in 1980 with Clarkson Gordon (now Ernst & Young) in the audit department. He holds a Chartered Accountant designation with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario (1982), and bachelor of commerce and bachelor of science degrees.
Ronald I. Benn is the brother of Bruce I. Benn. None of the nominees is considered independent under the definition used by the NASDAQ Global Market.
The affirmative vote of a plurality of the shares of Common Stock represented at the annual meeting will be required to elect each of these nominees. Votes may be cast in favor of or withheld with respect to each nominee. Abstentions and broker non-votes will not be taken into account in determining the outcome of the election.
For information relating to Common Stock owned by each of the directors see “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.”
The board of directors recommends a vote FOR the election of the nominees for directors named above.
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PROPOSAL 2: AMENDMENT TO RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
TO INCREASE AUTHORIZED SHARES
General
Our Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended (the “Charter”), as currently in effect, provide that the total number of shares of capital stock that we are authorized to issue is 107,000,000, consisting of 100,000,000 shares of Common Stock and 7,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock. On June 11, 2007, subject to approval by our stockholders, our board of directors approved an amendment to the Charter to increase the number of shares of capital stock that we are authorized to issue to 350,000,000, consisting of 300,000,000 shares of Common Stock and 50,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock (the “Amendment”).
Description of Securities
Common Stock
Holders of our Common Stock are entitled to dividends, if any, as our board of directors may declare from time to time from legally available funds, subject to the preferential rights of the holders of any shares of our Preferred Stock that we may issue in the future. Except as otherwise required by law, the holders of our Common Stock are entitled to one vote per share on any matter to be voted upon by stockholders. Our bylaws require that a majority of our issued and outstanding shares need be represented, in person or by proxy, to constitute a quorum and to transact business at a stockholders’ meeting.
Our Charter denies cumulative voting rights in connection with the election of directors. Accordingly, directors will be elected by a plurality of the shares voting once a quorum is present. Our Charter denies preemptive rights to all holders of Common Stock to subscribe for, purchase or acquire additional shares of capital stock issued in the future.
Upon our voluntary or involuntary liquidation, distribution or sale of assets, dissolution or winding up of our affairs, the holders of our Common Stock are entitled to share, on a pro rata basis, all assets remaining after payment to creditors and subject to prior distribution rights, if any, on shares of Preferred Stock that we may issue in the future. All of the outstanding shares of Common Stock are fully paid and non-assessable.
Preferred Stock
Under our Charter, our board of directors, without further action by our stockholders, is authorized to issue shares of Preferred Stock in one or more series. The board of directors may designate the preferred shares as to series, preferences, limitations and other provisions as the board of directors may designate from time to time. The Preferred Stock could have voting or conversion rights that could adversely affect the voting power or other rights of holders of our Common Stock.
Anti-Takeover Provisions of our Restated Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws and Nevada Law
Provisions with Anti-Takeover Implications
A number of provisions of our Charter and bylaws concern how we are governed and your rights as stockholders. Under our Charter, our board of directors may issue Preferred Stock and set the voting rights, conversion rights, preferences, and other terms of the Preferred Stock. These provisions and certain provisions of Nevada law could be deemed to discourage takeover attempts not first approved by our board of directors, including takeovers which may be considered by some stockholders to be in their best interests. Any discouraging effect upon takeover attempts could potentially depress the market price of our Common Stock or cause temporary fluctuations in the market price of the Common Stock that otherwise could result from actual or rumored takeover attempts. These provisions could also delay or frustrate the removal of incumbent directors or the assumption of control by stockholders, even if such
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removal or assumption would be beneficial to our stockholders. These provisions could also discourage or make more difficult a merger, tender offer, proxy contest or other takeover attempt, even if they could be favorable to the interests of our stockholders, and could potentially depress the market price of our Common Stock.
Special Meetings of Stockholders
Our bylaws provide that special meetings of our stockholders may be called by our president, by a majority of our board of directors or upon the written request of the holders of a majority of the then outstanding Common Stock entitled to vote at the meeting.
Stockholder Action by Written Consent
Our bylaws provide that whenever a vote of our stockholders is required or permitted to be taken to authorize or approve any action, other than the election of directors, such action may be taken without a stockholders’ meeting if approved by written consent of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of the stockholders, except where a greater proportion of voting power is required, in which case such greater proportion of written consents by the stockholders will be required. Our bylaws also provide that the bylaw provision allowing stockholder action by written consent will not supersede any specific provision relating to action by written consent of stockholders under Nevada law. Nevada law provides that, unless otherwise provided in the articles of incorporation or the bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of stockholders may be taken without a meeting if, before or after the action, a written consent approving the action is signed by stockholders holding at least a majority of the voting power, except that if a different proportion of voting power is required for the approval of an action at a stockholders’ meeting, then that proportion of written consents is required.
Amendments to Bylaws
Our bylaws provide that our bylaws may be altered, amended or repealed by our board of directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of our capital stock entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders.
Nevada Law
Nevada’s statutes governing business combinations with interested stockholders and acquisitions of control shares may prohibit or delay mergers or other takeover or change in control attempts. This could discourage attempts to acquire us.
The statutes governing business combinations with interested stockholders prohibit an applicable Nevada corporation from entering into specified business combinations with an interested stockholder and its affiliates and associates for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder. Business combinations may be completed prior to the expiration of the three-year period only if the business combination was approved prior to the time the interested stockholder attained such status, or if the interested stockholder attained such status with the approval of the board of directors. Under Nevada law, a business combination encompasses a wide variety of transactions with or caused by an interested stockholder or its affiliates or associates, including mergers, asset sales, and other transactions in which an interested stockholder receives or could receive a financial benefit. ;An interested stockholder means the beneficial owner of 10% or more of the voting shares of a corporation or one of its affiliates or associates. The Nevada statutes governing business combinations with interested stockholders may have an anti-takeover effect for transactions not approved in advance by our board of directors, including discouraging takeover attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares of our Common Stock.
Nevada’s statutes governing acquisitions of control shares prohibit a stockholder, under certain circumstances, from voting shares of a corporation’s stock after crossing certain threshold ownership percentages, unless the stockholder obtains the approval of the target corporation’s disinterested stockholders. Once a stockholder crosses one of these thresholds, those shares acquired within 90 days become control shares and are deprived of the right to vote until disinterested stockholders restore the
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right. If the voting rights are restored and the stockholder has a majority or more of all voting power, any stockholder who did not vote in favor of authorizing voting rights is entitled to demand fair value for its shares. These statutes apply only to Nevada corporations doing business in the state and that have at least 200 stockholders, at least 100 of whom are stockholders of record and residents of Nevada.
Reasons for Amendment
As of July 9, 2007 we had 47,567,597 shares of Common Stock outstanding. In addition, we have reserved 6,305,000 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options that have been granted, 7,283,333 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding warrants and approximately 38,666,667 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding convertible notes, as we more fully described below. If all reserved shares were issued we would have 99,822,597 shares of Common Stock outstanding. We currently have no shares of Preferred Stock outstanding.
In connection with various financing transactions, debt repayment transactions and consulting transactions, we have issued warrants for the purchase of our Common Stock and convertible notes. As of July 9, 2007, warrants for the purchase of an aggregate of 7,283,333 shares of Common Stock were outstanding. As of July 9, 2007 we had issued to accredited investors an aggregate of $2,200,000 in 10% convertible notes that are currently convertible into our common stock. Of this amount, $400,000 are convertible at a ratio of one share of Common Stock for each $0.03 of debt converted, $1,100,000 are convertible at a ratio of one share of Common Stock for each $0.06 of debt converted, and $700,000 are convertible at a ratio of one share of Common Stock for each $0.10 of debt converted. These 10% convertible notes payable mature at various dates, commencing with October 22, 2007 through June 21, 2009. If the aggregate amount of these 10% convertible notes payable is converted on the maturity date, we would be required to issue a total of approximately 38,666,667 shares of Common Stock to the holders of these notes.
In addition, we have issued to accredited investors an aggregate of $835,000 principal amount in 10% convertible notes that are not currently convertible (the “New Notes”). New Notes in an original principal amount of $810,000 mature on June 21, 2009, and the remainder ($25,000 principal amount) mature on October 22, 2007. All of the New Notes are unsecured and bear interest at the rate of 10% per annum and interest is payable in cash or shares of Common Stock, at our option. We will default on the New Notes if we fail to pay the New Notes in accordance with their terms or in certain bankruptcy events. The New Notes do not include any terms as to redemption or provide for a sinking fund or retirement. We do not have the right to prepay any of the New Notes. These notes are not currently convertible into Common Stock, but the principal of and any accrued and unpaid interest on the New Notes will be conver tible into Common Stock at a ratio of one share of Common Stock for each $0.06 of debt converted, but only at such time as the authorized number of shares of Common Stock is at least 120,000,000. If the proposal to approve the Amendment is approved, the New Notes will become convertible into up to approximately 16,596,806 shares of Common Stock. The New Notes include a provision, waivable by the holder on 61 days prior written notice to us, that limits a holder’s ability to convert the New Notes to the extent that conversion would result in beneficial ownership by the holder and its affiliates of more than 4.99% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock. If the New Notes become convertible and they are converted in full, our stockholders’ equity could increase up to approximately $1 million and our liabilities could decrease by a corresponding amount. The conversion would not impact our assets or our statement of cash flows. The conversion of the New Notes could impact our statement of operations to the extent of any gain or loss on the conversion, however the amount of such gain or loss, if any, is not determinable at this time.
Risks Associated with the Increase in Authorized Shares
The common stock authorized will have rights identical to the currently outstanding Common Stock. The issuance of additional authorized but un-issued and not reserved shares of Common Stock may dilute the voting power and equity interest of present shareholders. If the proposal to approve the Amendment is approved, as a consequence of the increase in the number of shares of Common Stock we are authorized to issue, we will have a sufficient number of shares authorized such that up to approximately 16,596,806 shares will be issuable on conversion of $835,000 of the New Notes that are
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not currently convertible. Without the approval of the Amendment, the New Notes may not be converted into shares. In addition, the board of directors believes that it would be prudent for the Company to have the ability to issue additional shares of common stock, securities that are convertible into shares of common stock such as convertible debt, convertible preferred stock and warrants to purchase common stock, and additional stock options pursuant to our option plans in order to continue to fund operations and to refinance existing debt obligations, or to fund the expansion of our business, and the acquisition of other businesses or assets. We believe it is prudent business practice to provide the flexibility to do so if and when the board of directors deems it advisable. The issuance of any additional shares will result in dilution of the interests of our existing shareholders.
Additional authorized but un-issued shares of common stock or preferred stock might also be used in the context of a defense against or response to possible or threatened hostile takeovers. Our board of directors has determined, however, that the advantages of the additional authorized shares outweigh any potential disadvantages. Our board of directors has determined that approval of the increase in the authorized shares is in the best interest of the shareholders because it would facilitate our business and financial purposes in the future without the necessity of delaying such activities for further stockholder approvals, except as may be required in a particular case by Nevada law, or the listing and continued listing requirements of any securities trading system or exchange on which our securities may become listed in the future.
Form of Amendment
If the Amendment is approved, the first sentence of Article IV of the Charter would be amended to read as follows:
The Corporation is authorized to issue a total of 350,000,000 shares, consisting of 50,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock having a par value of $.001 per share (hereinafter the “Preferred Stock”), and 300,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par value $.001 per share (hereinafter the “Common Stock”).
Approval
Stockholders holding shares in the Company entitling them to exercise at least a majority of the voting power must vote in person or by proxy in favor of the Amendment in order to be approved by our stockholders. An abstention will have the same effect as a negative vote on the proposal. In addition, a broker non-vote will have the effect of a negative vote because shares held by brokers will not be entitled to vote on this matter.
The board of directors recommends a vote FOR the approval of the Amendment.
PROPOSAL 3: APPROVAL OF THE
COMPANY’S 2004 AMENDED INCENTIVE EQUITY PLAN
Our stockholders are being asked to approve an amendment and restatement of the 2004 Incentive Equity Plan as amended and restated (the “Amended Plan”). The purposes of this amendment and restatement are (i) to increase the authorized number incentive stock options that may be issued under the Amended Plan from three million, eighty seven thousand, six hundred ninety-eight (3,087,698) to six million, eighty seven thousand, six hundred ninety-eight (6,087,698) (ii) to increase the maximum number of options that may be granted to an individual; and (iii) to make changes to comply with recent changes to laws. In conjunction with the existing Amended and Restated Incentive Equity Plan, approved by the stockholders on February 25, 2005 which allows the Company to issue up to three million nine hundred and twelve thousand, three hundred and two (3,912,302) stock options, if the stockholders approve the Amendment, the Company would be able to issue a total of ten million (10,000,000) stock options. There are also amendments that will bring the 2004 Plan into compliance with current regulations.
The purpose of the Amended Plan is to attract and to retain the services of employees, consultants and outside directors of the Company and its subsidiaries and to provide such persons with a proprietary interest in the Company through the granting of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock
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options, restricted stock and performance awards whether granted singly, or in combination, or in tandem, that will increase the interest of such persons in the Company’s welfare and success; furnish an incentive to such persons to continue their services for the Company; and provide a means through which the Company may attract able persons as employees ,consultants and outside directors. Only employees may receive incentive stock options.
OnJune 11, 2007 the board of directors adopted the Amended Plan, subject to stockholder approval. The Amended Plan must receive the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares having voting power present or represented in person or by proxy at the Meeting in order to be approved by our stockholders. An abstention will have the same effect as a negative vote on the proposal to approve the Amended Plan. However, a broker non-vote will not be counted as a vote cast at the Meeting because shares held by brokers will not be considered entitled to vote on this matter, and therefore, a broker non-vote will the effect of reducing the total number of shares from which a majority is calculated.
The board of directors unanimously recommends a vote FOR the proposal to approve the 2004 Amended Incentive Equity Plan. Unless otherwise instructed, the enclosed proxy will be voted FORsuch proposal. The approval of this proposal is contingent on the approval of the stockholders of Proposal 2.
The following is a summary of the material provisions of the Amended Plan. The summary is subject to the terms of the Amended Plan, a copy of which is attached as Appendix “A” to this proxy statement.
Administration and Eligibility
The Amended Plan is administered by the board of directors and by the compensation and stock option committee of the board of directors (the “Committee”). Subject to the provisions of the Amended Plan, the Committee has the authority to determine and designate from time to time the eligible persons to whom awards will be granted and shall set forth in each related award agreement the award period, the date of grant, and such other terms, provisions, limitations, and performance requirements, as approved by the Committee. The Committee shall interpret the Amended Plan, prescribe, amend, and rescind rules and regulations relating to the Amended Plan, and make all other determinations in the judgment of the Committee necessary or desirable for the administration and purposes of the Amended Plan.
Stock options or restricted stock, may be granted to persons who are, at the time of grant, officers of, employees of (including an employee who is a director), or consultants or advisors to, or outside directors of the Company. However, incentive stock options may be granted only to employees. As of August 2, 2006, approximately 9 employees and consultants and outside directors were eligible to receive awards under the Amended Plan.
Number of Shares
The maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be delivered pursuant to awards granted under the Amended Plan, as amended, is six million, eighty seven thousand, six hundred ninety-eight (6,087,698) shares, plus, as set forth in Article 5 of the Amended Plan, any shares that are forfeited or exchanged, repurchased on the open market or surrendered as payment for the exercise price. In the event of certain mergers, sales of assets, reorganizations, consolidations, recapitalizations, stock dividends or other changes in corporate structure affecting our Common Stock, the Committee must make an equitable substitution or adjustment in the aggregate number of shares reserved under the Amended Plan and in the number of shares exercisable under, and the exercise price of, outstanding options under the Amended Plan. The maximum number of shares of Common Stock with respect to all grants or awards, which may be granted to any one participan t under the Amended Plan, is 1,500,000 per calendar year. The maximum number of shares of common stock that may be delivered pursuant to incentive stock options to any one participant under the 2004 Plan by the Amendment is three million (3,000,000) shares.
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Awards
The Committee has authority to grant stock options restricted stock and performance awards. These awards can be granted to employees, consultants and outside directors of the Company. Each type of award is described herein.
Exercise Price and Terms of Stock Options
The Committee has the authority to grant incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options to employees, consultants and outside directors of the Company. The Committee, with respect to stock options, selects the exercise price per share of stock, provided the exercise price cannot be less than (a) 110% of fair market value per share for incentive stock options granted to a holder of more than 10% of the Company’s capital stock, and (b) 100% of fair market value for incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options generally. The option price may be paid in cash or Common Stock owned by the optionee as provided in the Amended Plan. The Committee shall also determine the expiration of the option period within the requirements of the Amended Plan. No stock options shall be exercisable later than five years after the date on which the option is granted. Incentive stock options granted to a holder of more t han 10% of the Company’s capital stock, shall terminate no later than five years after the date on which the option is granted. In all cases, options shall be subject to earlier termination as provided in the Amended Plan.
Incentive stock options are nontransferable other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. The Committee may, in its discretion, authorize all or a portion of a non-qualified stock option to be granted to a participant to be on terms which permit transfer by such participant to certain recipients as provided in Section 17.7 of the Amended Plan. The Committee has the authority under the Amended Plan to establish the option vesting schedule. The Committee, in its sole discretion, may determine that an award will be immediately vested and/or exercisable, in whole or in part, or that all or any portion may not be vested and/or exercised until a date, or dates, subsequent to its date of grant, or until the occurrence of one or more specified events, subject in any case to the terms of the Amended Plan. If the Committee imposes conditions upon vesting or exercise, then subsequent to the date of grant, the Committee may, in i ts sole discretion, accelerate the date on which all or any portion of the incentive may be vested or exercised.
In the event that a holder of an award shall cease to serve as an employee, consultant or outside director of the Company, for any reason, such holder may only exercise the stock option as determined by the Committee and provided in the award agreement.
The Committee has authority, with the consent of the effected optionee, to cancel or amend any outstanding options under the Amended Plan and to grant substitution options covering the same or a different number of shares of Common Stock and having an exercise price per share which may be lower or higher than the exercise price per share of the outstanding options.
Restricted Stock
The Committee may award restricted stock grants (“Restricted Stock”). Restricted Stock consists of shares that are transferred or sold by the Company to a participant, but are subject to substantial risk of forfeiture and to restrictions on their sale or other transfer by the participant. The Committee determines the eligible participants to whom, and the time or times at which, grants of Restricted Stock will be made, the number of shares to be granted, the price to be paid, if any, the time or times with which the shares covered by such grants will be subject to forfeiture, the time or times at which the restrictions will terminate, and all other terms and conditions of the grants. Restrictions or conditions could include, but are not limited to, the attainment of performance goals (as described below), continuous service with the Company, the passage of time or other restrictions or conditions. The Committee may, in its discretion, authorize all or a portion of a restricted stock grant to be granted to a participant on terms which permits transfer by such participant as provided in Section 17.7 of the Plan.
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Performance Awards
The Committee may grant performance awards payable in cash or shares of common stock at the end of a specified performance period. Payment will be contingent upon achieving pre-established performance goals (as discussed below) by the end of the performance period. The Committee will determine the length of the performance period, the maximum payment value of an award, and the minimum performance goals required before payment will be made. Subject to Committee discretion, a performance award will terminate for all purposes if the participant is not continuously employed by the Company at all times during the applicable performance period.
Other Awards
The Committee may grant other forms of awards payable in cash or shares of common stock if the Committee determines that such other form of award is consistent with the purpose and restrictions of the Amended Plan. The terms and conditions of such other form of award shall be specified by the grant. Such other awards may be granted for no cash consideration, for such minimum consideration as may be required by applicable law, or for such other consideration as may be specified by the grant.
Additional Rights in Certain Events
The Amended Plan provides for certain additional rights upon the occurrence of one or more events described in Article 14 of the Amended Plan. Subject to any required action by the stockholders, if the Company shall be the surviving or resulting corporation in any reorganization, merger, consolidation or share exchange, any award granted hereunder shall pertain to and apply to the securities or rights (including cash, property, or assets) to which a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock subject to the award would have been entitled. Notwithstanding the foregoing, however, all such awards may be canceled by the Company as of the effective date of any such reorganization, merger, consolidation or share exchange by giving notice to each holder thereof or his personal representative of its intention to do so and by permitting the purchase during the thirty (30) day period next preceding such effective date of all of the shares of Co mmon Stock subject to such outstanding awards.
In the event of any reorganization, merger, consolidation or share exchange pursuant to which the Company is not the surviving or resulting corporation, there shall be substituted for each share of Common Stock subject to the unexercised portions of such outstanding awards, that number of shares of each class of stock or other securities or that amount of cash, property, or assets of the surviving, resulting or consolidated company which were distributed or distributable to the stockholders of the Company in respect to each share of Common Stock held by them, such outstanding awards to be thereafter exercisable or such stock, securities, cash, or property in accordance with their terms.
Amendment and Termination
The board of directors may at any time modify or amend the Amended Plan in any respect, without the consent of the holders of any awards, provided that no amendment for which stockholder approval is required either (i) by any securities exchange or inter dealer quotation system on which the Company’s common stock is listed; or (ii) in order for the Amended Plan and incentives awarded under the Amended Plan to continue to comply with Section 162(m), 421 or 422, to the extent applicable, of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), including any successors to such Sections, shall be effective unless such amendment shall be approved by the requisite vote of the stockholders of the Company entitled to vote. Any such amendment shall, to the extent deemed necessary or advisable by the Committee, be applicable to any outstanding awards granted under the Amended Plan, notwithstanding any contrary provisions contained i n any stock option agreement. In the event of any such amendment to the Amended Plan, the holder of any award outstanding under the Amended Plan shall, upon request of the Committee and as a condition to the exercisability, execute a conforming amendment in the form prescribed by the Committee to any award agreement.
Unless sooner terminated by action of the board of directors, the Amended Plan will terminate on January 1, 2011, but awards granted before that date will continue to be effective in accordance with their terms and conditions.
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Amended Plan Benefits
It is neither possible to state the individuals who will receive grants of awards under the Amended Plan in the future, nor the amount of awards that will be granted under the Amended Plan, as amended. As of June 22, 2007 no stock options have been granted under the 2004 Incentive Equity Plan to Directors, Executive Officers or non-Executive Officers.
Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following is a summary of the United States federal income tax consequences that generally will arise with respect to awards granted under the Amended Plan and with respect to the sale of shares of Common Stock acquired under the Amended Plan. This summary does not purport to address all aspects of federal income taxation and does not describe state, local or foreign tax consequences. This discussion is based upon provisions of the Code, the Treasury Regulations, and judicial and administrative interpretations under the Code and Treasury Regulations, all as in effect as of the date hereof, and all of which are subject to change (possibly on a retroactive basis) or different interpretation.
New Law Affecting Deferred Compensation
In 2004, a new Section 409A was added to the Code to regulate all types of deferred compensation. If the requirements of Section 409A of the Code are not satisfied, deferred compensation and earnings thereon will be subject to tax as its vests, plus an interest charge at the underpayment rate plus 1% and a 20% penalty tax. Certain performance awards, stock options, and certain types of restricted stock are subject to Section 409A of the Code.
Incentive Stock Options
In general, a participant will not recognize taxable income upon the grant or exercise of an incentive stock option. Instead, a participant will recognize taxable income with respect to an incentive stock option only upon the sale of shares of Common Stock acquired through the exercise of the option (“ISO Shares”). However, when an incentive stock option is exercised and the fair market value of the ISO Shares exceeds the exercise price, then the excess will be a tax preference item for purposes of the federal alternative minimum tax calculation. The federal alternative minimum tax may produce significant tax repercussions depending upon the participant’s particular tax status.
To the extent that the fair market value (determined as of the date of grant) of the shares of Common Stock with respect to which the participant’s incentive stock options are exercisable for the first time during any year exceeds $100,000, the incentive stock options for the shares of Common Stock over $100,000 will be treated as non-qualified stock options, and not incentive stock options, for federal tax purposes, and the participant will recognize income as if the incentive stock options were non-qualified stock options.
Generally, the tax consequences of selling ISO Shares will vary with the length of time that the participant has owned the ISO Shares at the time they are sold. If the participant sells ISO Shares after having owned such shares for at least two years from the date the option was granted (the “Grant Date”) and one year from the date the option was exercised (the “Exercise Date”), then the participant will recognize long-term capital gain in an amount equal to the excess of the sale price of the ISO Shares over the participant’s tax basis in the ISO Shares. If the amount received is less than the participant’s tax basis in the ISO Shares, then the participant will recognize long-term capital loss equal to the excess of the participant’s tax basis over the sale price of the ISO Shares. Long term gains are currently taxed at a maximum rate of 15% and short term gains are currently taxed as ordinary in come. Ordinary income is currently taxed at six rates, depending upon a taxpayer’s income level.
If the participant sells ISO Shares for more than the fair market value of such shares on the exercise date prior to having owned such shares for at least two years from the Grant Date and one year from the Exercise Date (a “Disqualifying Disposition”), the participant will recognize ordinary compensation income for the tax year in which the Disqualifying Disposition occurs in an amount equal to
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the difference between the fair market value (or, if less, the sales price) of the stock on the date of exercise and the exercise price. The participant’s basis in the ISO Shares will be increased by an amount equal to the amount treated as ordinary compensation income due to such Disqualifying Disposition. Any amount received in such Disqualifying Disposition over the participant’s increased basis in the ISO Shares is treated as capital gain to the participant. This capital gain will be treated as short-term or long-term capital gain, depending upon how long the participant has held the shares. This capital gain will be a long-term capital gain if the participant has held the ISO Shares for more than one year prior to the date of sale. If the price received for the ISO Shares is less than the fair market value of the shares on the exercise date and the disposition is a transaction in which the partici pant sustains a loss which otherwise would be recognizable under the Code, then the amount of ordinary compensation income that the participant will recognize is the excess, if any, of the amount realized on the Disqualifying Disposition over the basis of the ISO Shares.
Non-qualified Stock Options
As in the case of an incentive stock option, a participant will not recognize taxable income upon the grant of a non-qualified stock option as long as the exercise price per share at the date of the grant is at least equal to the fair market value of each share as of the date of the grant. Additionally, the Company will not be entitled to a tax deduction by reason of such grant. Unlike the case of an incentive stock option, however, a participant who exercises a non-qualified stock option generally will recognize ordinary compensation income in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares of Common Stock acquired through the exercise of the option (“NSO Shares”) on the Exercise Date over the exercise price.
With respect to any NSO Shares, a participant’s tax basis in the NSO Shares will be equal to the exercise price plus any income recognized upon the exercise of the option or income recognized on the grant if it is granted at less than the fair market value. Upon selling NSO Shares, a participant generally will recognize capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the excess of the sale price of the NSO Shares over the participant’s tax basis in the NSO Shares. This capital gain or loss will be treated as short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending upon how long the participant has held the NSO Shares. The capital gain or loss will be a long-term gain or loss if the participant has held the NSO Shares for more than one year prior to the date of the sale. Long term gains are currently taxed at a maximum rate of 15% and short term gains are currently taxed as ordinary income. Ordinary income is current ly taxed at six rates, depending upon a taxpayer’s income level.
Special Rule if Exercise Price is Paid For in Common Stock
If a participant pays the exercise price of a non-qualified stock option with previously-owned shares of Common Stock and the transaction is not a Disqualifying Disposition of shares of Common Stock previously acquired under an incentive stock option, the number of shares of Common Stock received equal to the number of shares of Common Stock surrendered are treated as having been received in a tax-free exchange. The participant’s tax basis and holding period for the shares of Common Stock received will be equal to the participant’s tax basis and holding period for the shares of Common Stock surrendered. The number of shares of Common Stock received in excess of the number of shares of Common Stock surrendered will be treated as ordinary compensation income to the participant to the extent of their fair market value. The participant’s tax basis in these shares of Common Stock will be equal to their fair market value o n the Exercise Date, and the participant’s holding period for such shares will begin on the Exercise Date.
If the use of previously acquired shares of Common Stock to pay the exercise price of a non-qualified stock option constitutes a Disqualifying Disposition of shares of Common Stock previously acquired under an incentive stock option, the participant will have ordinary compensation income as a result of the Disqualifying Disposition in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares of Common Stock surrendered, determined at the time such shares of Common Stock were originally acquired on exercise of the incentive stock option, over the aggregate exercise price paid for such shares of Common Stock. As discussed above, a Disqualifying Disposition of shares of Common Stock previously acquired under an incentive stock option occurs when the participant disposes of such shares before having owned such shares for at least two years from the Grant Date and one year from
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the Exercise Date. The other tax results from paying the exercise price with previously-owned shares are as described above, except that the participant’s tax basis in the shares of Common Stock that are treated as having been received in a tax-free exchange will be increased by the amount of ordinary compensation income recognized by the participant as a result of the Disqualifying Disposition.
Restricted Stock
A participant who receives a grant of Restricted Stock generally will recognize as ordinary income the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the shares of Common Stock granted at such time as the shares of Common Stock are no longer subject to forfeiture or restrictions (i.e. when they vest), over the amount paid, if any, by the participant for such shares of Common Stock. However, a participant who receives a grant of Restricted Stock may make an election under Section 83 (b) of the Code within 30 days of the date of transfer of the Restricted Stock to recognize ordinary income on the date of transfer of the Restricted Stock equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares of Common Stock subject to the Restricted Stock grant (determined without regards to the restrictions on such shares of Common Stock) over the purchase price, if any, of such stock. If a participant does not make an election under Section 83(b) of the Code, then the participant will recognize as ordinary income any dividends received with respect to the Restricted Stock. At the time of sale of such stock, any gain or loss realized by the participant will be treated as either short-term or long-term capital gain (or loss) depending on the holding period. For purposes of determining any gain or loss realized, the participant’s tax basis will be the amount previously taxable as ordinary income.
Performance Awards and Other Awards
In the case of an award of performance awards or other stock or cash awards, the participant will generally recognize ordinary income in an amount equal to any cash received and the fair market value of any shares received on the date of payment or delivery, provided that the award is exempt from or complies with Section 409A of the Code.
Federal Tax Withholding
Any ordinary compensation income realized by a participant in connection with an award is subject to withholding of federal, state and local income tax and to withholding of the participant’s share of FICA and FUTA taxes. To satisfy this federal income tax withholding requirement, the Company will have the right to require that, as a condition to delivery of any certificate for shares of Common Stock, the participant remit to the Company an amount sufficient to satisfy the withholding requirements. Alternatively, the Company may withhold a portion of the cash or shares of Common Stock (valued at fair market value) that otherwise would be issued to the participant to satisfy all or part of the withholding tax obligations.
Withholding does not represent an increase in the participant’s total income tax obligation, since it is fully credited toward his or her tax liability for the year. Additionally, withholding does not affect the participant’s tax basis in the Common Stock. Compensation income realized and tax withheld will be reflected on Forms W-2 supplied by the Company to employees by January 31 of the succeeding year.
Deferred compensation that is subject to Section 409A of the Code is subject to federal income tax withholding if it does not conform with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code.
Tax Consequences to the Company
To the extent that a participant recognizes ordinary income in the circumstances described above, the Company will be entitled to a corresponding deduction provided that, among other things, the income meets the test of reasonableness, is an ordinary and necessary business expense, is not an “excess parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and is not disallowed by the $1,000,000 limitation on certain executive compensation under Section 162 (m) of the Code.
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Million Dollar Deduction Limit and Other Tax Matters
The Company may not deduct compensation of more than $1,000,000 that is paid to an individual who, on the last day of the taxable year, is either the Company’s chief executive officer or is among one of the four other most highly-compensated officers for that taxable year. The limitation on deductions does not apply to certain types of compensation, including qualified performance-based compensation. The Company intends that benefits in the form of stock options, stock related awards, and other performance-based awards will be constructed so as to constitute qualified performance-based compensation and, as such, will be exempt from the $1,000,000 limitation on deductible compensation.
If a participant’s rights under the Amended Plan are accelerated as a result of a change in control and the participant is a “disqualified individual” under Section 280G of the Code, the value of any such accelerated rights received by such participant may be included in determining whether such participant has received an “excess parachute payment” under Section 280G of the Code, which could result in (i) the imposition of a 20% federal excise tax (in addition to federal income tax) payable by the participant on the value of such accelerated rights, and (ii) the loss of a compensation deduction which would otherwise be allowable to the Company or one of its subsidiaries as explained above.
PROPOSAL 4: RATIFICATION OF AUDITORS
The Company’s board of directors has appointed KPMG LLP (“KPMG”) to act as independent certified public accountants of the Company for the 2007 fiscal year. Stockholders are being asked to ratify this appointment. KPMG served as our independent auditors for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006.
KPMG has informed us that they are independent with respect to our Company within the meaning of the applicable published rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the pronouncements of the Independence Standards Board, and Rule 101 of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Code of Professional Conduct, including its interpretations and rulings.
Representatives of KPMG are expected to be present at the Meeting, will have the opportunity to make a statement if they so desire and will be available to respond to appropriate questions from stockholders.
The ratification of the appointment of KPMG must receive the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares having voting power present or represented in person or by proxy at the Meeting in order to be approved by our stockholders. Brokers have discretionary authority to vote on behalf of their customers regarding the proposed ratification, and therefore broker non-votes will have no effect on the outcome of the proposed ratification. However, an abstention will have the same effect as a negative vote on the proposed ratification.
The board of directors recommends a vote FOR the proposal to ratify the appointment of KPMG as our independent auditors for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2007.
A proposal to ratify this appointment is being presented to the stockholders at the Meeting because the board of directors believes that it is a good corporate practice to seek stockholder ratification of the selection of independent auditors. If the appointment of KPMG is not ratified, the board of directors will evaluate the basis for the stockholders’ vote when evaluating whether to renew the firm’s engagement.
The following table sets out fees billed by KPMG for audit and related services for each of the previous two fiscal years:
| | |
Description of services | Fees billed for 2006 fiscal year | Fees billed for 2005 fiscal year |
Audit fees | $37,416 | $35,216 |
Audit related fees | $66,876 | $69,441 |
Audit-related fees were incurred in relation to our quarterly reports on Form 10-QSB.
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We do not currently have an audit committee; however it is our policy to have all audit and audit-related fees pre-approved by the board of directors. All of the above fees were pre-approved by the board of directors.
We do not expect any representatives of KPMG LLP to be present at the Annual Meeting.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth information as of June 15, 2007, with respect to any person known by us to own beneficially more than 5% of our Common Stock, Common Stock beneficially owned by each of our officers named in “Executive Compensation,” and each of our directors, and the amount of Common Stock beneficially owned by our officers and directors as a group.
Approximate Percent
Name & Address of
Number of Shares
of Common Stock
Beneficial Owner
Beneficially Owned
Outstanding (1)
Bruce Benn* (2) (6) (7)
3,580,000
7.7%
Ronald Benn* (2) (6) (8)
975,500
2.1%
All Executive Officers and Directors
As a Group
4,455,500 (11)
9.6%
Leonid Frenkel (4)
3,816,938
8.3%
401 City Avenue
Suite 800
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Waycross Corp. (3)
3,400,000
10.4%
29 Rue des Deux Communes
1226 Thonex-Geneva
Switzerland
Valdosta Corp. (2)
3,400,000
7.4%
P.O. Box 30592
Cayside, 2nd Floor, Harbour Drive
Georgetown, Grand Cayman
Cayman Islands, BWI
Robert B. Prag (5)
2,554,825
5.6%
12220 El Camino Real
Suite 400
San Diego, CA 92130
______________________________________________________________________________________________
*Executive Officer and/or a Director.
(1)
Based upon 45,720,403 shares of common stock issued and outstanding as of June 15, 2007 and includes for each person the shares issuable upon exercise of the options and warrants owned by them.
(2)
Valdosta Corp. is a portfolio management corporation incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands. Bruce Benn has a beneficial interest in 2,650,000 of the shares owned of record by Valdosta Corporation. Accordingly, 2,650,000 shares of the 3,400,000 shares owned of record by Valdosta Corporation have been included as beneficially owned by him. Ronald Benn has a beneficial interest in 250,000 of the shares owned of record by Valdosta Corporation. Accordingly, 250,000 shares of the 3,400,000 shares owned of record by Valdosta Corporation have been included as beneficially owned by him.
(3)
Waycross Corp. is a portfolio management corporation incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands.
(4)
Includes (a) 2,654,106 shares of common stock held by Leonid Frenkel, and (b) 1,162,832 shares held by Triag Capital L.F group , LLC, an investment limited liability corporation in which Mr. Frenkel exercises shared voting and dispositive power. Based on information contained in Schedule 13G as filed by Mr. Frenkel and Triage Capital LF group, LLC on December 31, 2006.
(5)
Includes (a) 654,825 shares of common stock held by Robert B. Prag, and (b) 1,900,000 shares of common stock held by The Del Mar Consulting Group, an investment company over which Mr. Prag exercises voting and dispositive power. Based on information contained within the Schedule 13G, as filed by Mr. Prag and the Del Mar Consulting Group Inc. on January 16, 2007.
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(6)
Capital House Corporation is incorporated under the laws of Canada. Includes 400,000 shares of common stock issuable to Capital House Corporation upon exercise of the warrants owned by it. Bruce Benn and Ron Benn each has a beneficial interest in the shares of Capital House Corporation, and in 100,000 warrants owned of record by Capital House Corporation. Accordingly 100,000 warrants owned of record by Capital House Corporation have been included as beneficially owned by each of them. Bruce Benn and Ron Benn are brothers.
(7)
Includes (a) 30,000 shares held directly by Bruce Benn; (b) 2,650,000 shares owned of record by Valdosta Corporation; (c) 100,000 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to warrants held of record by Capital House Corporation; and (d) 300,000 shares issuable upon exercise of warrants held directly by Bruce Benn; and (e) 500,000 shares issuable upon exercise of options held directly by Bruce Benn. See footnotes (2) and (11).
(8)
Includes (a) 25,500 shares held directly by Ronald Benn, (b) 250,000 shares owned of record by Valdosta Corporation; (c) 100,000 shares of common stock issuable pursuant to warrants held of record by Capital House Corporation; and (d) 600,000 shares issuable upon exercise of options held directly by Ronald Benn. See footnotes (2) and (11).
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
Information regarding the Company’s directors and executive officers is set forth above under “Proposal One”. The executive officers of the Company are elected by the board of directors.
Each of our directors and officers serves a term of one year or until his successor is appointed and qualified. None of our directors is independent within the meaning of the rules of the NASDAQ Global Market.
Stock Option Plans
The following table sets forth details regarding our Common Stock authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans as at December 31, 2006:
| | | |
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)) (c) |
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders |
3,447,302 |
$0.50 |
3,552,698 |
Total | 3,447,302 | $0.50 | 3,552,698 |
* Stockholder approval of our Amended Plan is being sought at the upcoming Meeting to which this proxy statement relates.
We have granted options to purchase an aggregate of 1,597,302 shares of our Common Stock to certain employees and consultants pursuant to our Restated Plan. These options entitle the holders to purchase shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.33 per share. The options vested immediately upon their issuance, and are exercisable until May 7, 2008. The Restated Plan authorizes a committee of our board of directors, which administers the plan, to grant stock options and stock appreciation rights to our employees and consultants.
We have granted options to purchase an aggregate of 1,850,000 shares of our Common Stock to certain employees and consultants pursuant to our 2004 Incentive Equity Plan. These options entitle the holders to purchase shares of Common Stock at an average exercise price of $0.65 per share. The options vested immediately upon their issuance, and are exercisable at various dates between April 30, 2009 and January 1, 2011. The 2004 Incentive Equity Plan authorizes a committee of our board of directors, which administers the plan, to grant stock options and stock appreciation rights to our employees and consultants. The number of Common Stock reserved for issuance under the terms of the 2004 Incentive Equity Plan is 3,087,698.
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Board and Committee Meetings
The business of the Company is managed under the direction of the board of directors. The board meets regularly to review Company related activities, transactions, developments, and to act on matters requiring board approval. The board also holds special meetings and acts by written consent as may be necessary. The board of directors of the Company held four meetings during 2006. Each incumbent director attended 100% of the aggregate of the total number of meetings of the board of directors during the period for which he was a director.
The Company’s board of directors has no standing committees.
Audit Committee
The Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted rules to implement certain requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 pertaining to public company audit committees. One of the rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission requires a company to disclose whether it has an “audit committee financial expert” serving on its audit committee and/or entire Board of Directors performs the function of an audit committee. Our board of directors has not yet established an audit committee. As such, our board has not yet appointed an audit committee financial expert. At this time, our board of directors believes it would be desirable to have an audit committee, and for the audit committee to have an audit committee financial expert serving on the committee. While informal discussions as to potential candidates have occurred, at this time no formal search process has commenced.
Compensation Committee
We have not established a compensation committee because we do not have any independent directors. As a result, our entire Board of Directors participates in consideration of officer and director compensation.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
We have not established a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee nor have we adopted a charter for the nominating process. Currently, the entire board performs the functions of a nominating committee, including identifying individuals qualified to become board members, recommending nominees to fill vacancies in the membership of the board as they occur and, prior to each annual meeting of stockholders, recommending director nominees for election at such meeting, making recommendations concerning the size and composition of the board, and conducting succession planning regarding the Chief Executive Officer and other senior officer positions of the Company. Board candidates are considered based upon various criteria, such as skills, knowledge, perspective, broad business judgment and leadership, relevant specific industry or regulatory affairs knowledge, business creativity and vision, experience, and an y other factors appropriate in the context of an assessment of the needs of the board at that time. In addition, the board will consider whether the individual satisfies criteria for independence as may be required by applicable regulations and personal integrity and judgment. Accordingly, we seek to attract and retain highly qualified directors who have sufficient time to attend to their substantial duties and responsibilities to the Company.
The board has the sole authority to retain, compensate and terminate any search firm or firms to be used in connection with the identification, assessment, and/or engagement of directors and director candidates. No such firm has been retained by the Company in the past.
The board will consider proposed nominees whose names are submitted to it by stockholders; however, it does not have a formal process for that consideration. The Company has not adopted a formal process because it believes that the informal consideration process has been adequate to date. The board intends to review periodically whether a more formal policy should be adopted. If a stockholder wishes to suggest a proposed name for board consideration, the name of that nominee and related personal information should be forwarded to the board, in care of the corporate Secretary, at least six months before the next annual meeting to assure time for meaningful consideration by the
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board. Stockholder nominees will be evaluated based upon the same criteria as a Board-recommended nominee.
As of June 30 2007, none of the members of the board of directors satisfied the “independence requirements” of the NASDAQ Stock Market.
Stockholder Communication with Board Members
Although the Company has not to date developed formal processes by which stockholders may communicate directly to directors, it believes that the informal process, in which stockholder communications which are received by the Secretary for the board’s attention, or summaries thereof, will be forwarded to the board has served the board’s and the stockholders’ needs. In view of recently adopted Securities and Exchange Commission disclosure requirements relating to this issue, the board may consider development of more specific procedures. Until any other procedures are developed and posted on the Company’s corporate website, any communications to the board of directors should be sent to it in care of the Secretary.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table shows all the cash compensation paid or to be paid by us or our subsidiaries, as well as certain other compensation paid or accrued, during the fiscal years indicated, to our chief executive officer and other executive officers who received total compensation in excess of $100,000 during the past fiscal year in all capacities in which the person served.
Summary Compensation Table
| | | | | | | | | |
(a) | (b) | ( c) | (d) | (e) | (f) | (g) | (h) | (i) | (j) |
Name and Principal Position | Year | Salary ($) | Bonus ($) | Stock Awards ($) | Option Awards ($) | Non—Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) | Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings ($) | All Other Compensation ($) |
Total ($) |
Benn, Bruce (1) | 2006 | 105,847 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 105,847 |
| 2005 | 99,146 | 0 | 0 | 264,562 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 363,708 |
Benn, Ronald (2) | 2006 | 105,847 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 105,847 |
| 2005 | 99,591 | 0 | 0 | 211,650 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 311,241 |
Maisonneuve, Andre (3) | 2006 | 105,847 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 105.487 |
| 2005 | 103,848 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 103,848 |
(1)
Became Director, President and Chief Executive Officer and Secretary in May 2005. In addition, Mr. Benn served as Director, Executive Vice President and Secretary from February 2004 to May 2005.
(2)
Became Director, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer in February 2004.
(3)
Became Director, Executive Vice President and Secretary in July 2001. In addition, Mr. Maisonneuve served as Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer from January 2002 to February 2004 and as Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer from January 2002 until May 2005. Mr. Maisonneuve retired effective December 31, 2006.
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Outstanding Equity Awards
The following table shows the outstanding equity awards to our chief executive officer and other executive officers who have received total annual salary and bonus in excess of $100,000 during the past fiscal year, in all capacities in which the period served.
| | | | | | | | | |
(a) | (b) | ( c) | (d) | (e) | (f) | (g) | (h) | (i) | (j) |
Name | Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options Exercisable (#) | Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options Un- Exercisable (#) | Equity Incentive plan awards: Number of securities underlying unexercised unearned options (#) | Option Exercise Price ($) | Option Exercise Date | Number of Shares of Units of Stock that have not Vested (#) | Market Value of Shares or Units of Stock that have not Vested ($) | Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned (#) | Equity Incentive Plan Awards Market Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units of Stock or other Rights that have not Vested |
Benn, Bruce | 500,000 | 0 | 0 | 0.67 | 2010/06/30 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Benn, Ronald | 400,000 | 0 | 0 | 0.67 | 2010/06/30 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Maisonneuve, Andre | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -- | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Employment Agreements
The Company has entered into employment agreements with the following named executive officers:
Bruce Benn
In the event of termination of employment for any reason other than cause, Bruce Benn may receive 6 months base salary. In the event that there is a change of control, Bruce Benn may receive 12 months base salary. Bruce Benn’s current base salary is set at C$120,000, which approximates US$110,000.
Ronald Benn
In the event of termination of employment for any reason other than cause, Ronald Benn may receive 6 months base salary. In the event that there is a change of control, Ronald Benn may receive 12 months base salary. Bruce Benn’s current base salary is set at C$120,000, which approximates US$110,000.
Compensation of Directors
Currently, directors are not compensated for acting in their capacity as directors. Directors are reimbursed for their accountable expenses incurred in attending meetings and conducting their duties.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
To our knowledge, based solely on a review of such materials as are required by the Securities and Exchange Commission, none of our officers, directors or beneficial holders of more than 10% of our issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock failed to timely file with the Securities and Exchange Commission any form or report required to be so filed pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, during the year ended December 31, 2006.
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Code of Ethics Policy
We have not yet adopted a code of ethics policy because we are a development stage company, in the early stages of operations. We intend to adopt a code of ethics policy in the future.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
Included in accrued liabilities at December 31, 2006 is $128,715 in accrued salaries payable to the directors and former director of the Corporation. Included in 12% promissory notes payable is $7,902 payable to MarchWind Capital Management Corporation, a company controlled by Ronald Benn, a director of the Corporation, and 18,438 payable to Bruce Benn, a director. Included in interest and finance charges for the year ended December 31, 2006 is $221 in accrued interest charges relating to these notes.
Effective July 1, 2004, our company entered into an agreement to sublease excess office space to Vector Wind Energy Inc., a related company. Vector Wind Energy Inc. is related to our company due to Ronald Benn being an officer and director of both companies. Included in accounts receivable at December 31, 2006 and 2005, is $nil and $5,508, respectively, in rent receivable pursuant to this sublease agreement. Sublease income for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively, of $31,808 and $29,709, has been recorded as a reduction of rental expense in the accounts of our company.
ANNUAL AND QUARTERLY REPORTS
The 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-KSB/A for the Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, and the Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB for the period ended March 31, 2007 are being mailed to each stockholder receiving this Proxy Statement. These reports do not form any part of the proxy solicitation material.
OTHER MATTERS
The board of directors does not intend to bring any other matters before the Meeting nor does the board of directors know of any matters, which other persons intend to bring before the Meeting. If, however, other matters not mentioned in this Proxy Statement properly come before the Meeting, the persons named in the accompanying form of proxy will vote thereon in accordance with the recommendation of the board of directors.
2007 ANNUAL MEETING
If any stockholder wishes to present a proposal to be considered for inclusion in the proxy materials to be solicited by the Company’s board of directors with respect to the next annual meeting of stockholders, such proposal shall have been presented to the Company’s management by May 1, 2008, pursuant to Regulation 14a-8 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such proposals should be directed to the Company, 30 Metcalfe Street, Suite 620, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1P 5L4 Attention: Secretary.
With respect to stockholder proposals not included in the Company’s proxy statement and form of proxy, the Company may utilize discretionary authority conferred by proxy in voting on any such proposals if, among other situations, the stockholder does not give timely notice of the matter to the Company by July 14, 2008 within a ‘reasonable time’ before the Company mails its proxy materials for the 2007 annual meeting.
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THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ENCOURAGES STOCKHOLDERS TO ATTEND THE MEETING. WHETHER OR NOT YOU EXPECT TO BE PRESENT AT THE MEETING, PLEASE FILL IN, DATE, SIGN AND RETURN THE ENCLOSED PROXY PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE TO WHICH NO POSTAGE NEED BE AFFIXED IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES. YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. IF YOU ARE A STOCKHOLDER OF RECORD AND ATTEND THE MEETING AND WISH TO VOTE IN PERSON, YOU MAY WITHDRAW YOUR PROXY AT ANY TIME PRIOR TO THE VOTE.
By Order of the Board of Directors
August 27, 2007
Bruce Benn
President, Chief Executive Officer
and Chairman of the Board of Directors
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ANNEX A
2004 AMENDED INCENTIVE EQUITY PLAN
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Validian Corporation
2004 AMENDED INCENTIVE EQUITY PLAN
June 2007
Validian Corporation
2004 AMENDED INCENTIVE EQUITY PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
ARTICLE 1
PURPOSE
1
ARTICLE 2
DEFINITIONS
1
ARTICLE 3
ADMINISTRATION
4
ARTICLE 4
ELIGIBILITY
5
ARTICLE 5
SHARES SUBJECT TO PLAN
6
5.1
Number Available for Awards
6
5.2
Reuse of Shares
6
ARTICLE 6
GRANT OF AWARDS
6
6.1
In General
6
6.2
Maximum ISO Grants
7
6.3
Restricted Stock
7
6.4
Performance Awards
8
6.5
Maximum Individual Grants
10
6.6
Performance Goals
10
6.7
Tandem Awards
10
ARTICLE 7
OPTION PRICE
10
ARTICLE 8
AWARD PERIOD; VESTING
10
8.1
Award Period
10
8.2
Vesting
11
ARTICLE 9
TERMINATION OF SERVICE
11
ARTICLE 10
EXERCISE OF INCENTIVE
11
10.1
In General
11
10.2
Securities Law and Exchange Restrictions
11
10.3
Exercise of Stock Option
11
10.4
Disqualifying Disposition of ISO
12
ARTICLE 11
AMENDMENT OR DISCONTINUANCE
13
ARTICLE 12
TERM
13
ARTICLE 13
CAPITAL ADJUSTMENTS
13
ARTICLE 14
RECAPITALIZATION, MERGER AND CONSOLIDATION
14
ARTICLE 15
LIQUIDATION OR DISSOLUTION
15
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ARTICLE 16
INCENTIVES IN SUBSTITUTION FOR INCENTIVES GRANTED BY
OTHER CORPORATIONS
15
ARTICLE 17
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
16
17.1
Investment Intent
16
17.2
No Right to Continued Employment
16
17.3
Indemnification of Board and Committee
16
17.4
Effect of the Plan
16
17.5
Compliance With Other Laws and Regulations
16
17.6
Tax Requirements
16
17.7
Assignability
16
17.8
Use of Proceeds
17
17.9
Legend
17
ii