The Company did not have any Level 2 or Level 3 assets or liabilities as of February 28, 2014, with the exception of its convertible notes payable and derivative liability. The carrying amounts of these liabilities at February 28, 2014 approximate their respective fair value based on the Company’s incremental borrowing rate.
Cash is considered to be highly liquid and easily tradable as of February 28, 2014 and therefore classified as Level 1 within our fair value hierarchy.
In addition, FASB ASC 825-10-25 Fair Value Option, or ASC 825-10-25, was effective for January 1, 2008. ASC 825-10-25 expands opportunities to use fair value measurements in financial reporting and permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. The Company did not elect the fair value options for any of its qualifying financial instruments.
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Convertible Instruments
The Company evaluates and accounts for conversion options embedded in its convertible instruments in accordance with professional standards for “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”.
Professional standards generally provides three criteria that, if met, require companies to bifurcate conversion options from their host instruments and account for them as free standing derivative financial instruments. These three criteria include circumstances in which (a) the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative instrument are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract, (b) the hybrid instrument that embodies both the embedded derivative instrument and the host contract is not re-measured at fair value under otherwise applicable generally accepted accounting principles with changes in fair value reported in earnings as they occur and (c) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative instrument would be considered a derivative instrument. Professional standards also provide an exception to this rule when the host instrument is deemed to be conventional as defined under professional standards as “The Meaning of “Conventional Convertible Debt Instrument”.
The Company accounts for convertible instruments (when it has determined that the embedded conversion options should not be bifurcated from their host instruments) in accordance with professional standards when “Accounting for Convertible Securities with Beneficial Conversion Features,” as those professional standards pertain to “Certain Convertible Instruments.” Accordingly, the Company records, when necessary, discounts to convertible notes for the intrinsic value of conversion options embedded in debt instruments based upon the differences between the fair value of the underlying common stock at the commitment date of the note transaction and the effective conversion price embedded in the note. Debt discounts under these arrangements are amortized over the term of the related debt to their earliest date of redemption. The Company also records when necessary deemed dividends for the intrinsic value of conversion options embedded in preferred shares based upon the differences between the fair value of the underlying common stock at the commitment date of the note transaction and the effective conversion price embedded in the note.
ASC 815-40 provides that, among other things, generally, if an event is not within the entity’s control could or require net cash settlement, then the contract shall be classified as an asset or a liability.
Stock Based Compensation
We account for the grant of stock options and restricted stock awards to employees in accordance with ASC 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation.” ASC 718 requires companies to recognize in the statement of operations the grant-date fair value of stock options and other equity based compensation.
Foreign Currency Translation
Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries operating in foreign countries are translated into U.S. dollars using both the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date or historical rate, as applicable. Results of operations are translated using the average exchange rates prevailing throughout the period. The effects of exchange rate fluctuations on translating foreign currency assets and liabilities into U.S. dollars are included in a separate component of stockholders’ equity (accumulated other comprehensive loss), while gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in operations.
Business Combinations
In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 805, "Business Combinations" ("ASC 805") the Company records acquisitions under the purchase method of accounting, under which the acquisition purchase price is allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their respective fair values. The Company utilizes management estimates and, in some instances, may require an independent third-party valuation firm to assist in determining the fair values of assets acquired, liabilities assumed and contingent consideration granted. Such estimates and valuations require us to make significant assumptions, including projections of future events and operating performance.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
A variety of accounting standards have been issued or proposed by FASB that do not require adoption until a future date. We regularly review all new pronouncements that have been issued since the filing of our Form 10-K for the six-month period ended February 28, 2014 to determine their impact, if any, on our financial statements. The Company does not expect the adoption of any of these standards to have a material impact once adopted.
NOTE 3 - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consisted of the following:
| | | | | | |
| | | February 28, |
| August 31, |
| Estimated life | | 2014 |
| 2013 |
|
|
|
| (Unaudited) |
| |
Computer and office equipment | 3 to 5 years | | $ | 9,483 |
| $ 8,990 |
Less: Accumulated depreciation | | |
| (8,187) | | (7,074) |
| | | $ | 1,296 |
| $ 1,915 |
Depreciation expense amounted to $1,113 and $759 for the periods ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
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NOTE 4 - LOANS PAYABLE
| | | | | | |
|
| February 28, |
| August 31, |
| | 2014 |
| 2013 |
|
|
| (Unaudited) |
|
| |
Loans payable | | $ | 324,600 |
| $ | 492,000 |
The loans payable are due on demand and non-interest bearing.
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, the Company assigned loans payable to a non-affiliated, third party shareholder, aggregating $385,000 to third parties whose terms were contemporaneously modified into convertible notes.
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, the Company made principal repayments aggregating $15,000.
During the six-month periods ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, the Company generated proceeds of $252,600 and $44,500 from loans payable, respectively.
NOTE 5 – CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES
At February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013 convertible debentures consisted of the following:
| | | | | | |
| | February 28, 2014 | | August 31, 2013 |
|
|
| (Unaudited) |
|
| |
Convertible debentures | | $ | 563,435 | | $ | 432,831 |
Unamortized debt discount | | | (126,227) | | | (91,243) |
Total | | $ | 437,208 | | $ | 341,588 |
The convertible notes payable mature through February 2015, some of which are payable on demand and they bear interest at ranges between 6% and 15%. The convertible promissory notes are convertible at ratios varying between 50% and 70% of the closing price at the date of conversion through, at its most favorable terms for the holders, the average of the three lowest closing bids for a period of 45 days prior to conversion. As of February 28, 2014, an aggregate of $365,931 of convertible promissory notes have matured. In addition the Company has convertible loans totaling $75,000 which are in default due to the delay in filing audited August 31, 2013 financial statements. The default is cured when the 10-KA is filed.
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, a noteholder of the Company assigned loans payable to a non-affiliated, third party shareholder, aggregating $385,000 to third parties whose terms were contemporaneously modified into convertible notes.
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, the Company issued 622,531,098 shares of its common stock to satisfaction its obligations under principal repayments aggregating $279,395. Additionally, the Company issued 111,150,106 shares of its common stock pursuant to subsequent pricing reset provisions and to satisfy interest pursuant to certain convertible promissory notes. The fair value of the shares of common stock amounted to $47,026 and has been recorded as interest expense.
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, the Company generated proceeds of $27,000 and $5,000, respectively, from the issuance of convertible promissory notes payable.
NOTE 6 - DERIVATIVE LIABILITIES
The Company accounts for the embedded conversion features included in its convertible instruments as derivative liabilities. The aggregate fair value of derivative liabilities at February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013 amounted to $795,035 and $151,329, respectively. In addition, for the periods ended February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013, the Company has recorded a loss related to the change in fair value of the derivative liability amounting to $468,706 and $142,574 for the six-month period ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively. At each measurement date, the fair value of the embedded conversion features was based on the lattice binomial method.
NOTE 7 – ACCRUED COMPENSATIONAND RELATED TAXES
As of February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013 the Company owes $820,944 and $737,849 respectively, in accrued compensation to certain directors and consultants. The amounts are non-interest bearing.
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NOTE 8 - COMMON STOCK AND PREFERRED STOCK
On March 5, 2013, Digital Brand Media & Marketing Group, Inc. received approval from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) for its 100 to 1 reverse stock split. All shares have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the 100 to 1 reverse stock split.
In September 2013, 508,222 shares of Preferred Stock-Series 1 Designation were converted into 26,956,095 shares of restricted common stick by officers of the Company.
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, the Company issued 622,531,098 shares of its common stock to satisfy its obligations under principal repayments aggregating $279,395. Additionally, the Company issued 111,150,106 shares of its common stock pursuant to subsequent pricing reset provisions and to satisfy interest pursuant to certain convertible promissory notes. The fair value of the shares of common stock amounted to $47,026 and has been recorded as interest expense.
In November 2012, 41,995 shares of Preferred Stock-Series 1 Designation were issued for an accrual to satisfy a debt. These shares are valued at $2,673.
In November 2012, 533,637 shares of Preferred Stock-Series 1 Designation were issued to four officers of the Company. These shares are valued at $27,600.
In October 2013, 385,000 shares of Preferred Stock-Series 1 Designation were issued to three officers of the Company. These shares are valued at $144,985.
In February 2014 the Company raised its authorized capital to 2,000,000,000 common voting shares, and 4,000,000 authorized preferred shares.
NOTE 9 - FOREIGN OPERATIONS
As of February 28, 2014, all of our revenues and a majority of our assets are associated with subsidiaries located in the United Kingdom. Assets at February 28, 2014 and revenues for the six-month period ended February 28, 2014 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | United States | | | Great Britain | | | | | Total | |
Revenues | | $ | - | | | $ | 212,439 | | | | | $ | 212,439 | |
Total revenues | | $ | - | | | $ | 212,439 | | | | | $ | 212,439 | |
Identifiable assets at February 28, 2014 | | $ | 47,310 | | | $ | 107,562 | | | | | $ | 154,872 | |
As of August 31, 2013, all of our revenues and a majority of our assets are associated with subsidiaries located in the United Kingdom. Assets at August 31, 2013 and revenues for fiscal 2013 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | United States | | | Great Britain | | | | | Total | |
Revenues | | $ | - | | | $ | 408,505 | | | | | $ | 408,505 | |
Total revenues | | $ | - | | | $ | 408,505 | | | | | $ | 408,505 | |
Identifiable assets at August 31, 2013 | | $ | - | | | $ | 61,807 | | | | | $ | 61,807 | |
NOTE 10 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Since March 1, 2014, the Company issued an aggregate of 2,743,467 shares of its common stock to satisfy obligations under certain convertible promissory notes.
In May 2014, the Company raised its authorized capital to 5,000,000,000 common voting shares.
NOTE 11 – LEGAL MATTERS
One of the Company’s lenders filed a lawsuit in the State of New York alleging damages of $337,500 based on breach of contract arising from the Company’s untimely periodic filings. On September 18, 2014, the court declined to grant the plaintiff's application for default judgment. The cross-motion by the Company was granted, and the lender was directed to file a verified answer in the form submitted within 20 days. The Company plans on vigorously defending the litigation and is unable to assert the likelihood of the outcome of the allegations. However, it is possible that the Company will incur a loss of $37,500.
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Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis or Plan of Operations
Readers are cautioned that certain statements contained herein are forward-looking statements and should be read in conjunction with our disclosures under the heading "Forward-Looking Statements" above. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. This discussion also should be read in conjunction with the notes to our consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Report.
Background
DBMM is an OTC:Pink listed company. Subsequent to the close of the fiscal year 2011 following substantial investment, the Company conducted a structural review of its total product and services offering. The review was carried out by the Board of Directors. The result was to bring technology development being outsourced directly into the Company to steward on a daily basis and any activities which were not revenue generating in the near term were eliminated. It was unanimously agreed that the company would adopt a lean approach that focused on the relationships and partnerships. To that end, the Company has added significant partnerships through Letters of Intent, Joint Ventures and various collaborative structures involving revenue sharing arrangements.
Operations Overview/Outlook
Operationally, 2013 has been important in continuing the direction of the Company and steering it toward a scaled, sustainable growth plan. The model developed in fiscal 2012 has been reinforced and is differentiating to clients, therefore, the model will continue into fiscal 2014.
Entertainment/Fashion/Sports/Automotive/Ecommerce Solutions
DBMM is taking its strengths including its relationships to build its business focus on a wide array of industries. The Company, under very competitive global market conditions and growing development needs, continues to identify partnership opportunities. Utilizing successful models with existing clients, the outlook remains strong for the future.
The heart of the business is the marketing consultancy. Understanding each client and developing the model to individualize the outlook has been essential. This kind of close relationship with the client resulted in Digital Clarity being considered a close professional advisor.
In fiscal year 2014, the Company will continue to focus on the positive results of the last year and use that model to expand geographic reach with existing and new partners.
Digital Marketing Services
2013 continues to see exponential growth in the adoption of Social Media as communication, marketing and engagement avenues. An acceptance of change is driving revenue. The future growth in mobile search is one of the fastest growing ancillary businesses. It was clear that the direction, talent and growth of the Company is in its human capital and outside relationships which must be proactive in order to differentiate itself from competition
The clear opportunity is at the foundation of the Company, namely the need to expedite and encourage development in the digital marketing services sector. The marketing services product is labor intensive and thus the Company must jumpstart the growth by significant capital infusion in fiscal year 2014 to grow simultaneously in multiple geographies.
As a foundation, the financial review showed that Digital Clarity continued to be revenue generating and remained cash flow positive.
Key Milestones
During 2013, Digital Clarity continued to make inroads into established and emerging markets. In 2012, as part of this emphasis, that was greatly enhanced and supported by the Head of US Operations, Steven Baughman, the company won a major deal with a US based entertainment group. The group was seeking a seasoned agency that could fulfill its complex specifications and grow with its aggressive expansion plans throughout the US and beyond. Digital Clarity was awarded the contract, removing the competitors to win the design and development of the new website centered on an intelligent design as well as a strong understanding and execution of social media integration. This model became the template for contracts going forward.
DBMM signed a Letter of Intent with Video Media Holdings, Inc. (VMS) to become its reseller in Europe with other revenue streams being explored as well. The value proposition for VMS strengthens DBMM’s offering to its clients. VMS Holdings, Inc. develops a mobile application for sharing videos. Its mobile application allows companies and users to send and receive video content to and from a mobile phone; subscribe for a favorite celebrity, actor, TV-channel, or team and get video updates; and create your own channel and become a broadcaster, as well as serves as a tool for mobile marketing and sales. The company's mobile application is available for Android, BlackBerry, iPhone, and Symbian devices. It distributes its mobile application through distributors, and mobile device and application stores in Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, and South Africa. It serves mobile operators and media companies, government organizations and law enforcement agencies, premium content providers and retailers, sports clubs, and celebrities worldwide.
DBMM finalized an agreement with New York based digital marketing automation platform, BRANDmini LLC, to strategically broaden BRANDmini's delivery of its SaaS (Software as a Service) application; primarily looking after those larger clients seeking to leverage a more bespoke digital marketing service abroad. BRANDmini is a transactional marketing automation platform for creating, serving, and measuring marketing campaigns across multiple online channels and mobile devices. Our platform is integrated with leading ad networks, publishers, mobile platforms and social sites. BRANDmini's innovative In-Page technology empowers brands to engage and transact with consumers while they are browsing. Now anyone can build branded transactional ads, gadgets, social landing pages and run campaigns anywhere your customers are.
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These two partnerships illustrate the execution of DBMM’s strategic direction which strengthens the Company through its revenue sharing relationships resulting in additional revenue streams.
Many clients in the UK such as Mercedes Benz, UK, Wharfside and Duvet & Pillow Warehouse have experienced increases in revenue and increases in conversion as a result of Digital Clarity’s strategic direction. These case studies are excellent resources for new clients.
Digital Clarity Named in Top Ten Best Social Media Marketing Firms in the UK for 2013
"Topseos.co.uk , an independent research firm, revealed the listing of the top 10 best social media marketing agencies in the UK based on their strength and competitive advantage. Social media marketing companies are put through a methodical analysis to ensure the rankings contain the absolute best companies the search marketing industry has to offer."
Digital Clarity was awarded a spot in the top 10. The process for researching and declaring social media marketing agencies in the UK is based on the use of a set of analysis criteria and learning more about their solutions and their communications with their customers through references. The teso.co.uk independent analysis team communicates directly with the clients in order to inquire about the solutions and achievement from the client's perspective.
Key Differentiators
2013 was been about establishing strong foundations by restructuring financially, continuing to streamline operations and assessing activities on a cost benefit basis while developing new partnerships and relationships. This focus has allowed the Company to enhance brand value for its clients. 2014 will continue to be about growth and outreach.
STRENGTHS: BRAND ENHANCEMENT
As the internet and mobile arena continues to mature, the need to make sense of and manage companies through this often complex market is clearly an area of massive growth. The company is confident that the talent and experience within the digital marketing team is poised for a major springboard in 2014, but must be expanded significantly in order to support the global reach intended.
Artist Collaboration, driven by Co-Chief Operating Officer and Head, US Operations, Steve Baughman, is an area that will see exponential growth in the coming 12 months and beyond. Artists and brands that look to leverage their celebrity status will look to companies such as Digital Clarity to help drive and develop their brand in the growing and complex arena of social media.
Market Reach
The Company has reach and experience across a large number of vertical markets including, but not limited to: Entertainment/Fashion/Sports/Automotive/Ecommerce.
Relationships and Industry Contacts
The team at Digital Clarity have professional and personal contacts, including some long-term relationships, at companies such as Google, Microsoft and Facebook, often being invited to attend strategic market briefings and insights.
Partnerships and agency management have allowed Digital Clarity to work on some of the biggest brands, sitting behind the agencies as a support and resource to deliver very high quality service and results to their clients.
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Team Expertise
COMPANY KEY ASSETS
Examples:
PPC campaign experience especially Google AdWords existed
SEO evolution from aggressive link building and onsite SEO through to strategic marketing integration of inbound marketing
Website design and development based on results driven design and planning
Brand consultancy
Social media management and advertising. Several clients have been “won” directly via Digital Clarity’s internal social media strategy
Sales and account management experience from multi-disciplined backgrounds
Evolution and Flexibility
The market is continually changing. Digital Clarity has always remained ahead of the curve and given their clients peace of mind by remaining a true strategic partner.
Creative, Individualized Solutions and Customer Service
Case Studies and testimonials reflect the client-centric approach of Digital Clarity. Being selected over larger more established firms, support that we provide the client with skills that are differentiating. The Digital Clarity Brand is being established positively.
Growth Opportunities in the Market
As the use of web mobile sites and applications grow, so do the complexities and challenges of using these sites and platforms commercially. Digital Clarity directs business through the maze of an often confusing and sophisticated set of barriers, to create a clear path for the customer to our clients product or service. As this market matures, the need for companies to rely on the services from Digital Clarity can only grow. Here we look at some of the growth areas in Digital Clarity’s arsenal.
Growth Opportunities in Design
644,275,754– number of active web pages 1st QTR 2012 - NetCraft
6 million domains added quarterly - Verisign
By 2015, Mobile Internet Usage Will Increase by Factor of 26 - CISCO
665 million media tablets in use worldwide By end of 2016 - Gartner Group
Growth & Opportunities in Search
The North American Search industry will grow from $19.3 bn in 2011 to $26.8bn in 2013 - SEMPO
Revenue from Localized Mobile Ads to Reach $5.8 Billion in U.S. by 2016 - BIA/Kelsey
U.S. search spend grew by 11 percent Year over Year, while ROI improved by 26 percent - Adobe
72% of Consumers Want Mobile-Friendly Sites - Google Research
2 million search queries are made on Google, every minute - Google
Growth in Corporate Search - 50% of Fortune 100 Companies have a Google+ Account
Growth & Opportunities in Social Media
Fortune Global 100 companies have more accounts on each platform than ever before with an average:
10.1 Twitter accounts
10.4 Facebook pages
8.1 YouTube channels
2.6 Google Plus pages
2.0 Pinterest accounts
Seventy-four percent of companies studied have a Facebook page.
Ninety-three percent of corporate Facebook pages are updated weekly.
Forty-eight percent of companies are now on Google Plus.
Twenty-five percent of companies have Pinterest accounts.
Each corporate Facebook page has an average of 6,101 people talking about it.
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The need for DBMM to reach Global Markets
It is clear that the economy continues its slow recovery from the global effect of market forces which impact on all areas of commerce and trade. As the markets remain volatile, the opportunity for a company like DBMM to approach new business with its proven track record, increases. The core markets remain US and English speaking European markets. Emerging markets are a target for 2014. BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China) will be the next targets from the emerging markets.
Internet usage is poised for explosive growth across Asia, driving massive consumer demand for digital content and services. The biggest challenge for businesses hoping to meet this demand is how to make money while creating low-cost content. According to McKinsey & Co, India and China are driving the next digital revolution via new mobile devices.
The Company intends to further extend its services in the Middle Eastern market initially then review the successes using a lean methodology and continuous improvement along the way, and then roll out to the BRIC markets.
US
The US remains the center of the entertainment, technology and digital industries and as such the emphasis looking forward to 2014 and building on the recent success in the last quarter of the 2013 calendar year means that DBMM and its agency Digital Clarity are perfectly positioned to spring board into this market using the successful models established over the last two years.
The digital market continues to be focused on New York and Los Angeles therefore DBMM’s triangle of London/New York/LA is strategically sound. We are establishing a strong digital marketing presence in the Los Angeles area to cover the entertainment and music market and then plan to have the same model in New York. Our corporate offices are located in New York, however Los Angeles remains a key regional base from which to build and expand relationships, while a New York presence is equally important to serve and build relationships in the largest advertising market in the US.
The Asian American Market - An Unusually Attractive Opportunity
Fast Growing: -Current Population - 13+ Million - 49% population growth 1990-2000; 29% growth 2000-2008.
Educated & Affluent: -44% holding BA degree - vs. 28% of Non-Hispanic Whites -Median HH income almost $10K greater than Non-Hispanic Whites
Geographically Concentrated: -More than 50% reside in 3 states alone: CA, NY, TX.
Money to Spend:
$509 billion in annual purchasing power.
Entrepreneurial and Driven -Own and operate 1.1 million business nationally, generating $343 billion in annual revenue.
Cost Efficient Reach -Almost 1,000 targeted media outlets reaching Asians nationally, with lowest CPMs of all consumer segments.
Europe
As the current base of the digital marketing agency is in London England, it is perfectly placed to reach out to the broader European market to replicate the Company’s model in the stronger economies in this region. As with the relationships mentioned in the US, opportunities were advanced with US partners to leverage Digital Clarity’s reach in this region and help take established US agencies into the European region.
In 2013, the execution of this aspect of the business plan is illustrated by the agreements with VMS and Brandmini to represent them outside the United States, initially in Europe.
Middle East
The Middle East is a fertile market for heritage based US and European brands looking for entry into this lucrative market. The fastest area for growth in this sector is to leverage on the luxury arena. Digital Clarity is already in discussions with a number of different luxury groups each with different brands within the group.
Given the complexity of the region as well as the enormous potential, it is important that Digital Clarity aligns itself with established players in local markets. With this in mind, Digital Clarity will look to collaborate with some digital agency partners where there is already a relationship and create a strategy that allows the company to look at the breakdown of current digital competence of these brands focusing on various touch points such as tablets, sites, mobile & social reach in the Middle East.
Our value proposition is very much about creating digital penetration of the Middle Eastern market for a particular group and how those brands would be positioned to create brand value – a byproduct of which would be sales.
Support for growth in the Middle East
Worldwide luxury goods continues double-digit annual growth; global market now tops €200 billion
Dubai commands around 30 per cent of Middle East luxury market and around 60 per cent of the UAE’s luxury market
The Dubai Mall accounts for around 50 per cent of Dubai’s luxury purchases
Each year, more “HENRYs” (High Earnings, Not Rich Yet) become potential customers, with ten times as many HENRYs as ultra-affluent individuals
The rise of the middle class in emerging countries is polarizing the competitive arena, becoming a “new baby-boom sized generation” for luxury brands to target.
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Financial Overview/Outlook
DBMM began the 2013 fiscal year with significant challenges while continuing to streamline the Company which resulted in a reduction of 39% in operating expenses coupled with a decrease in other expenses of 56%. While the Company is still operating at a loss, the loss was 46% less than 2012. The focus remains on the growth of digital marketing services and technology driven through Digital Clarity. The cost of sales has decreased by 19% while gross profit increased by 3%, which continued into the first quarter of fiscal 2014. DBMM is a marketing services company which is labor intensive in order to provide a differentiating product to its clients. As such, it is imperative to raise a significant amount of capital to hire professionals who can deliver profit to the Company within a quarter. The proven model carried in our financials is each new hire/client averages a margin of 35%-55%, straight line and simple. On that basis, our target is to recruit 10-20 new staff to represent a critical mass and scale up our revenues proportionately.
The Company restructured through a reverse stock split in early 2013 coincident with a name change and trading symbol change effective in April, 2013.
Unfortunately all of the corporate realignment took a significant portion of the fiscal year, thus a significant capital raise was deferred until 2014 in order to follow the fiscal year 2013 audit. In the interim, the Company relied on short-term financing, a practice which we do not expect to continue in 2014 when it will be replaced by long term financing.
However, the weakened share price remains a challenge to the Company. On that basis, in the last two years having revenues of approximately $500,000 would suggest a conservative market multiple of x10-x16, the latter being the manufacturing average, the market cap of DBMM should be a minimum of $5,000,000. The multiples for media tend to be at the higher end of the spectrum, therefore, compared to other companies in this sector, DBMM is significantly undervalued. The issue will be addressed as a priority early in the 2014 fiscal year. Professional advisors suggested that in order to position the Company successfully with the long-term financial community, a restructuring was required. The Company concluded its reverse split and name change and post - fiscal year 2013 filing of the 10-K, will be in a good position to continue discussions with a number of target groups. In addition an investment bank in New York is collaborating with DBMM in the identification of a significant acquisition in our industry sector. Initial due diligence is now taking place.
In summary, DBMM’s financing efforts have always been in short term, small amounts of working capital. That is going to change in 2014. Going forward, DBMM intends to embark on a significant capital raise to allow the Company to scale up geographically and maximize our global reach through partnered relationships. This strategy is the most efficient and effective path to grow DBMM quickly into multiple revenue streams. We have proven the model in the last year. Our marketing services’ offering is a labor intensive endeavor, wherein human capital is a key differentiator of knowledge and/or relationships. What we have discussed here is organic growth which will be conducted in conjunction with concluding an acquisition in the digital technology/marketing services sector.
After a very difficult year, fraught with challenges and hurdles, we see 2014 as poised for growth on multiple fronts. With capital infusion, which will allow us to bring in new clients, grow existing successful clients and service them accordingly, coupled with an offer of a deferred tax asset to attract partners with significant revenue and expansion patterns, we will have a model in place which will be sustainable.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We are not currently a party to, or otherwise involved with, any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future material effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Management does not believe that any recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting standards, if currently adopted, could have a material effect on the accompanying financial statements.
Reclassifications
Certain amounts in the prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform with the current period presentation.
Significant and Critical Accounting Policies
Our discussion of the financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of our consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of any contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Management regularly reviews its estimates and assumptions, which are based on historical factors and other factors that are believed to be relevant under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions, estimates or conditions.
Critical accounting policies are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties, and potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. See “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for additional disclosure of the application of these and other accounting policies.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
During the 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 fiscal years, we migrated the technology in-house and concentrated on activities to grow Digital Clarity organically and by acquisition. We spent fiscal year 2012-2013 establishing a client model for existing and new customers which can be exported geographically, continued the successful model into 2013 and will expand the base in 2014.
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SIX-MONTH PERIOD ENDED FEBRUARY 28, 2014
We had approximately $75,000 in cash at February 28, 2014. Our working capital deficiency amounted to approximately $2.7 million at February 28, 2014.
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, we used cash in our operating activities amounting to approximately $183,000. Our cash used in operating activities was comprised of our net loss from continuing operations of approximately $1.3 adjusted for the following:
| | |
| · | Fair value of preferred shares issued of $144,985; |
| · | Change in fair value of derivative liability of $468,706; |
| · | Amortization of debt discount of $296,443; |
| · | Fair value of shares issued as payment for interest and related financing fees of $47,029; |
Additionally, the following variations in operating assets and liabilities impacted our cash used in operating activity:
| | |
| · | An increase in our accounts payable and accrued expenses, including accrued compensation of approximately $166,000, resulting from slower payment processing due to our financial condition. |
| · | An increase in our accounts receivable of approximately $42,000, primarily due to the timing of certain revenues during the quarter ended February 28, 2014. |
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, we generated cash from financing activities of $241,450, which primarily consists of the proceeds from the issuance of loans and convertible debt aggregating $279,600 offset by principal repayments of loans payable of $15,000 and payment of the bank overdraft of approximately $23,000.
SIX-MONTH PERIOD ENDED FEBURARY 28, 2013
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2013, we used cash in our operating activities amounting to approximately $402,000. Our cash used in operating activities was comprised of our net loss from continuing operations of approximately $554,000 adjusted for the following:
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| · | Fair value of preferred shares issued for bonus of $27,600; |
| · | Amortization of debt discount of $57,115; |
| · | Gain on settlement of debt of $33,151; |
Additionally, the following variations in operating assets and liabilities impacted our cash used in operating activity:
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| · | An increase in our accounts payable and accrued expenses, including accrued compensation of approximately $97,000, resulting from slower payment processing due to our financial condition. |
During the six-month period ended February 28, 2013, we generated cash from financing activities of $49,500, which consist of the proceeds from the issuance of loans totaling $44,500 and a convertible note totaling $5,000.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Comparison of the Results for the Three and Six-month periods Ended February 28, 2014 and 2012
We currently generate revenue through our Pay-Per-Click Advertising, Search Engine Marketing, Search Engine Optimization Services, Web Design, Social Media, Digital analytics and Advisory Services.
For the three and six-month periods ended February 28, 2014 our primary sources of revenue are the Per-Click Advertising, Web Design and Search Engine Optimization Services. These primary sources amounted to 89% of our revenues. Our secondary sources of revenue are our Social Media and Email Media. These secondary sources amounted to approximately 11% of our revenues. For the six-month period ended February 28, 2013 our primary sources of revenue are the Per-Click Advertising, Web Design and Search Engine Optimization Services. These primary sources amounted to 74% of our revenues. Our secondary sources of revenue are our Social Media and Email Media. These secondary sources amounted to approximately 26% of our revenues.
We recognize revenue upon the completion of our performance obligation, provided that: (1) evidence of an arrangement exists; (2) the arrangement fee is fixed and determinable; and (3) collection is reasonably assured.
During the three-month period ended February 28, 2014, the increase in our revenues, when compared to the prior year period, is primarily attributable to an increase in volume of transactions from new clients. During the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, our revenues for that period were at comparable levels with the prior year period.
For the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, cost of sales included advertising, salaries and media spend. Our cost of sales decreased as a % of the revenues , during the three-month and six-month period ended February 28, 2014, when compared to the prior year periods, primarily from more efficient spending on media spend.
The decrease in general and administrative expenses during the six-month period ended February 28, 2014, when compared to the prior year period, results from streamlining or overhead that the Company undertook at the end of fiscal 2013. Otherwise, the general and administrative expenses are at similar levels during the three-month period ended February 28, 2014 when compared to the prior year period.
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The increase in compensation expense during the six-month period is primarily attributable to a non-recurring grant of preferred shares as bonus to certain of its officers which occurred during the first quarter of fiscal 2014 and which amounted to $145,000.
The decrease in legal and professional fees during the three-month period and six-month period ended February 28, 2014 when compared to the comparable prior year periods is primarily due to the timing of performance of services by certain of our professionals which did not occur during the three-month period ended February 28, 2014, but which, rather, will be incurred in later quarters.
Interest expense, which include interest accrued on certain notes, as well as amortization of debt discount and the fair value of shares issued pursuant to reset provisions of certain convertible promissory notes, increased during the three-month period and the six-month period ended February 28, 2014 is primarily attributable to the amortization of debt discount which was higher during the three-and six-month period ended February 28, 2014, when compared to the comparable prior year periods. The increase in amortization debt discount is primarily due to the issuance of a larger amount of convertible debt with beneficial conversion features and embedded conversion features during the six-month period ended February 28, 2014 than the prior year comparable periods.
Gain on settlement of debt totaled $0 and $33,151 for the six-month periods ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively. There were no settlements during the three-month and six-month periods ended February 28, 2014.
The loss on derivative liabilities is primarily attributable to a change in fair value of derivative liabilities between measurement dates.
Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
As a “smaller reporting company”, as defined by Rule 10(f)(1) of Regulation S-K, the Company is not required to provide this information.
Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
As of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report, our management evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) promulgated under the Exchange Act. Based upon that evaluation, our management concluded that, as of February 28, 2014, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in ensuring that material information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, including ensuring that such material information is accumulated and communicated to our management, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls
We maintain controls and procedures designed to ensure that we are able to collect the information that is required to be disclosed in the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and to process, summarize and disclose this information within the time period specified in the rules of the SEC. Our management is responsible for establishing, maintaining and enhancing these procedures. Management is also responsible, as required by the rules established by the SEC, for the evaluation of the effectiveness of these procedures.
Internal Controls
We maintain a system of internal controls designed to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are executed in accordance with management's general or specific authorization; transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP") and maintain accountability for assets. Access to assets is permitted only in accordance with management's general or specific authorization.
In conclusion, the disclosure and procedure controls provide for reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and preparation of financial statements for external purposes.
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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
The Company is involved in a litigation, Asher Enterprises, Inc. v. Digital Brand Media & Marketing Group, Inc. and Linda Perry, Index No. 600717/2014, in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, sitting in the County of Nassau. The Plaintiff alleges $337,500 in damages based on breach of contract allegations arising from the Company’s untimely periodic filings in November 2013. On September 18, 2014, the Court declined to grant the plaintiffs application for default judgment. The cross-motion by the Company was granted and the lender was directed to file a verified answer in the form submitted within 20 days. The Company plans on vigorously defending the litigation. However, it is possible that the Company will incur a loss of $37,500.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
As a “smaller reporting company” as defined by Item 10 of Regulation S-K, the Company is not required to provide information required by this item.
Item 2. Unregistered Sale of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
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Period | Class | Shares | Consideration | Use of Proceeds | Exemption from Registration |
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2013-2014 Q2 | Investors | 635,108,399 | $146,053 | Reduction of Outstanding Debt | §4 (a) (2) |