UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
(MARK ONE)
[ ] REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OR 12(G) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year endedDecember 31, 2007
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from __________or __________
Commission file number:0-32359
MERIDIAN CO., LTD.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
The Republic of Korea
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
3F, Poonglim Tech-one BLDG, 273-10, Seongsu-Dong 2ga, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul Korea 133-120 (Tel: 82-2-2103-3300)
(Address of principal executive offices)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class: None
Name of each exchange on which registered: Not applicable S
ecurities registered or to be registered pursuant to section 12(g) of the act:
Common shares with par value
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer's classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.
Common shares outstanding December 31, 2007: 35,004,156
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes [ ] No [X]
If this report is an annual report or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes [ ] No [X]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of "accelerated filer and large accelerated filer" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer [ ] Accelerated filer [ ] Non-accelerated filer [X]
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP [X] | International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board [ ] | Other [ ] |
Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has selected to follow. Item 17 [ ] Item 18 [X]
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [ ] No [X]
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
References
Currency Translation
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References
All references to "Korea" herein are references to The Republic of Korea. All references to "Meridian," the "Company", "we," "us" or "our" herein are references to Meridian Co., Ltd. All references to the "Government" are references to the government of Korea. All references to the "shares" are references to the Company's issued common shares of par value Won 100 (US $0.10 at June 20, 2008 and US $0.09 at December 31, 2007).
Forward Looking Statements
All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this registration statement, including, without limitation, the statements under and located elsewhere herein regarding industry prospects and the Company's financial position are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectation will prove to have been correct. A shareholder or prospective shareholder should bear this in mind when assessing the Company's business.
Currency Translation
In this annual report, references to "Won" or "\" are to the currency of Korea and all references to "Dollars," "$" or "US$" are to the currency of the United States of America. Our financial statements are prepared in Won and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005. Solely for the convenience of the reader and to improve clarity, certain items in this annual report were expressed in US$ at specified rates. Those US$ amounts are not audited. All translations from Won to US$ were made (unless otherwise indicated) at the noon buying rate in The City of New York for cable transfers in Won per US$1.00 as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in effect on December 31, 2007, which was Won 935.8 to US$1.00. No representation is made that the Won or US$ amounts referred to in this annual report could have been or could be converted into US$ or Won, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all. See also Item 3, Key Information, Exchange Rates Information, for information regarding the rates of exchange between the Won and the US$. On June 20, 2008 the exchange rate was Won 1031.5 to US$1.00.
PART I
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
A. DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT
See Item 4.C.
B. ADVISERS
Not Applicable
C. AUDITORS
Not Applicable
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
Not Applicable
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION
A. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The selected consolidated financial and other data set forth below should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements of Meridian Co., Ltd. as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 and for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 including the notes thereto, and "Item 5 - Operating and Financial Review and Prospects" included in this annual report. The selected consolidated financial data set forth below for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004 and 2003 are derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of Meridian, which have been audited by Choi, Kim and Park LLP, independent accountants (for the fiscal year ended
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December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005) and by ShinHan Accounting Corporation, independent accountants (for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003).
Our consolidated financial statements are compiled in Won and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations |
For the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004 and 2003 |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands, except per share amounts) |
2007(1)(in US$) | ||||||||||||||||||
(unaudited) | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | |||||||||||||
Sales | $ | 2,783,224 | \ | 2,604,541 | \ | 1,526,828 | \ | 1,434,519 | \ | 2,204,234 | \ | 3,441,119 | ||||||
Cost of sales | 875,634 | 819,418 | 591,819 | 1,099,194 | 1,214,803 | 1,490,837 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit | 1,907,590 | 1,785,123 | 935,009 | 335,325 | 989,431 | 1,950,282 | ||||||||||||
Operating expenses | 2,508,516 | 2,347,469 | 1,186,416 | 2,293,172 | 2,461,664 | 3,460,603 | ||||||||||||
Loss from operations | (600,926 | ) | (562,346 | ) | (251,407 | ) | (1,957,847 | ) | (1,472,233 | ) | (1,510,322 | ) | ||||||
Other expenses | (48,426 | ) | (45,317 | ) | (83,600 | ) | (1,424,510 | ) | (584,913 | ) | (641,349 | ) | ||||||
Noncontrolling interest | - | - | 10,260 | 32,951 | 1,319 | - | ||||||||||||
Loss before income taxes | $ | (649,352 | ) | \ | (607,663 | ) | \ | (324,747 | ) | \ | (3,349,406 | ) | \ | (2,055,827 | ) | \ | (2,151,672 | ) |
Income taxes | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||
Net loss | (649,352 | ) | (607,663 | ) | (324,747 | ) | (3,349,406 | ) | (2,055,827 | ) | (2,151,672 | ) | ||||||
Weighted average number of common | 32,553,528 | 32,553,528 | 31,393,984 | 31,603,847 | 22,199,701 | 18,094,211 | ||||||||||||
shares | ||||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted loss per common share | $ | (0.020 | ) | \ | (19 | ) | \ | (10 | ) | \ | (106 | ) | \ | (93 | ) | \ | (119 | ) |
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets |
As of December 31, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, and 2003 |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
2007(1)(in US$) | ||||||||||||||||||
(unaudited) | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | |||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 110,991 | \ | 103,865 | \ | 2,387 | \ | 22,967 | \ | 42,131 | \ | 37,292 | ||||||
Accounts receivable | 1,277,178 | 1,195,182 | 453,747 | 368,226 | 586,411 | 548,485 | ||||||||||||
Inventories | 587,516 | 549,798 | 371,209 | 488,455 | 695,996 | 838,660 | ||||||||||||
Other current assets | 25,532 | 23,893 | 21,337 | 1,749 | 188,614 | 38,011 | ||||||||||||
Total current assets | 2,001,217 | 1,872,738 | 848,680 | 881,397 | 1,513,152 | 1,462,448 | ||||||||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net | 54,034 | 50,565 | 16,546 | 23,804 | 1,491,667 | 1,542,335 | ||||||||||||
Investments and other assets | 141,151 | 132,090 | 104,792 | 50,636 | 162,109 | 170,398 | ||||||||||||
TOTAL ASSETS | $ | 2,196,402 | \ | 2,055,393 | \ | 970,018 | \ | 955,837 | \ | 3,166,928 | \ | 3,175,181 | ||||||
Trade accounts payable and current debt | $ | 4,762,910 | \ | 4,457,132 | \ | 5,085,477 | \ | 3,669,845 | \ | 3,297,535 | \ | 4,000,838 | ||||||
Long-term borrowings | 3,936,310 | 3,683,599 | 3,984,116 | 5,072,441 | 4,591,176 | 3,774,903 | ||||||||||||
Shareholders’ deficiency | (6,502,818 | ) | (6,085,338 | ) | (8,099,575 | ) | (7,786,449 | ) | (4,741,719 | ) | (4,600,560 | ) | ||||||
Noncontrolling interest | - | - | - | - | 19,936 | - | ||||||||||||
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND | ||||||||||||||||||
SHAREHOLDERS' DEFICIENCY | $ | 2,196,402 | \ | 2,055,393 | \ | 970,018 | \ | 955,837 | \ | 3,166,928 | \ | 3,175,181 |
(1) For convenience, 2007 financial statements in Won are also expressed in US$ at the rate of (Won) 935.8 to US$ 1.00. The exchange rate in effect on December 31, 2007 was published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. This translation should not be construed as a representation that the Won amounts represent, have been or could be converted to US$ at that rate or any other rate.
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Exchange rate information
The following table sets forth, for the periods and dates indicated, certain information concerning the noon buying rate of a U.S. dollar in Won. No representation is made that the Won or Dollar amounts referred to herein could have been or could be converted into Dollars or Won, as the case may be, at any particular rate, or at all.
ANNUAL | ANNUAL | |||
YEAR | AT DECEMBER 31 | ANNUAL AVERAGE RATE PER $1.00 US | HIGH | LOW |
2007 | 935.8 | 929 | 950.2 | 903.2 |
2006 | 930 | 954.3 | 1002.9 | 913.7 |
2005 | 1010 | 1023.8 | 1059.8 | 997 |
2004 | 1035.1 | 1139.3 | 1195.1 | 1035.1 |
2003 | 1192 | 1193 | 1262 | 1146 |
B. Capitalization and indebtedness
Not applicable
C. Reasons for the offer and use of proceeds
Not applicable
D. Risk Factors
The following risks relate specifically to the Company's business and should be considered carefully. The Company's business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected by any of the following risks. In particular, the Company is a Korean Company and is governed by a legal and regulatory environment which in some respects may differ from that which prevails in other countries.
The Company may require additional funding, which may not be available on favorable terms or at all.
The Company has limited financial resources. The Company will require additional cash to implement its business strategies, including cash for (i) payment of long-term and short-term borrowings (ii) payment of operating expenses, (iii) costs associated with bringing new products to market, (iv) continued research and development and (v) further implementation of those business strategies. The Company anticipates raising such additional capital through public or private financings, as well as through loans and other resources. There is no assurance that the necessary funds would be available to the Company on terms acceptable to it. Failure to obtain such additional funding could result in a delay or an indefinite postponement in providing some or all of the Company's products to the market place, or the ability to supply sufficient product to the market place on a continual and profitable basis. Additional funds raised by the Company through the issuance of equity will cause the Company's current stockholders to experience dilution. Such securities may grant rights, preferences or privileges senior to those of the Company's common stockholders. The Company does not have any contractual restrictions on the Company's ability to incur debt and, accordingly, the Company could incur significant amounts of indebtedness to finance its operations. Any such indebtedness could contain covenants which would restrict the Company's operations.
In February 2004, the Company received approval for a debt restructuring plan for a total of 4,697,927,000 Won from the Chooncheon District Court, Korea, whereby a group of creditors of the Company and a representative of the Company agreed to reschedule the payments on 4,697,927,000 Won of the Company's debt.
In January 2005, Woori Bank exercised its security right on the apartment owned by Meridian. The proceeds of 42,837 thousand Won from foreclosure were used to pay debt principal, interest and other direct expenses related to foreclosure.
Aside from the debt restructuring, Meridian had a borrowing from Chohung Bank (Chohung Bank has been merged into Shinhan Bank as of April 1, 2006), which was not included in the original restructuring plan, as the bank did not agreed to the terms. In December 2005, Chohung Bank exercised its security right on the land and building, which had been provided as collaterals by Meridian. The proceeds of 883,308 thousand Won from the foreclosure, was paid to preemptive other creditors and Chochung Bank. Subsequent to the foreclosure, the original debt restructuring plan was modified to include the outstanding principal of 1,074,455 thousand Won to Chohung Bank.
The future payment schedule related to the above explained debt restructuring including both principals and interests is summarized as follows (Korean Won (\) in thousands):
2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Principal | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,756 | \ | 4,555,298 | ||||||||
Interest | 159,435 | 136,659 | 113,883 | 91,106 | 68,329 | 45,553 | 22,777 | 637,742 | ||||||||||||||||
Total | \ | 810,192 | \ | 787,416 | \ | 764,640 | \ | 741,863 | \ | 719,086 | \ | 696,310 | \ | 673,533 | \ | 5,193,040 |
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However, due to the recurring losses from operations, Meridian was not able to meet the 2007 repayment schedule. As of December 31, 2007, Meridian has not paid 650,757 thousand Won of principal and 487,388 thousand Won of accrued interest outstanding to financial institutions, and 940,123 thousand Won of accounts payable to various vendors.
In June, 2004, the Company received funds of US$530,000 from investors through an equity financing whereby, the Company issued 3,312,500 common shares of the Company to three non-U.S. investors at the price of US$0.16 per share.
In March 2007, the Company raised 517,000,000 Won from twenty non-U.S. investors for total 933,506 common shares at the price of 554 Won per share and warrants to purchase 133,358 common shares at 950 Won per share.
In June 2007, the Company raised US$350,000 from one non-U.S. investor for 700,000 common shares at the price of US$0.50 per share.
In December 2007, the Company raised 1,779,000,000 Won from forty nine non-U.S. investors for total 1,976,666 common shares at the price of 900 Won per share.
The Company intends to raise additional financing through the issuance of debt or equity instruments. However, if the Company's efforts are not successful, the Company may not be able to realize its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of operations.
The Company incurred significant operating losses in the past and may not be able to achieve or sustain profitability in the future.
For the year ended December 31, 2007 the Company had a net loss of 607,663 thousand won ($649,352) and an accumulated deficit of 16,058,106 thousand won ($17,159,764). The Company recognizes the possibility of incurring losses for the foreseeable future. The extent of future losses will depend, in part, on the amount of growth in revenues from the Company's products. The Company expects that operating costs will increase during the next several years, especially in the areas of sales and marketing, product development and general and administrative expenses as it pursues its business strategy. Thus, the Company will need to generate increased revenues faster than the rate of growth in costs to achieve profitability. To the extent that increases in its operating expenses precede or are not subsequently followed by corresponding increases in revenues, or if it is unable to adjust operating expense levels accordingly, the Company's business, results of operations and financial condition would be materially and adversely affected. There can be no assurance that the Company will sustain profitability or that its operating losses will not increase in the future.
The Company expects increasing competition from larger companies.
The markets in which the Company competes are intensely competitive and the Company competes and will compete with companies that have greater financial and technical resources. Therefore, to the extent that the Company is able to establish sales revenues, there is no assurance that it would be able to sustain such sales revenues. Moreover if, and when, the Company begins achieving its objectives, larger, better financed companies in peripheral businesses may be attracted to the Company's markets. They may be prepared to spend large sums quickly to develop competitive products and to mount major marketing campaigns. The risk to the Company's markets could impair the Company's growth and have a negative effect on the Company's business.
The Company may need to upgrade products and develop new technologies to be competitive in the market.
Continued participation by the Company in its market may require the investment of the Company's resources in upgrading of its products and technology for the Company to compete and meet regulatory and statutory standards. There can be no assurance that such resources will be available to the Company or that the pace of product and technology development established by management will be appropriate to the competitive requirements of the marketplace. The Company's success will depend to a substantial degree on its ability to develop and introduce in a timely manner new products and enhancements that meet changing customer requirements and emerging industry standards. The development of new, technologically advanced products and enhancements is a complex and uncertain process requiring high levels of innovation as well as the anticipation of technology and market trends.
There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to identify, develop, manufacture, market, sell, or support new products and enhancements successfully, that new products or enhancements will achieve market acceptance, or that the Company will be able to respond effectively to technology changes, emerging industry standards or product announcements by competitors.
The Company currently depends on a limited number of domestic suppliers to manufacture certain key components and these manufacturers may not be able to satisfy requirements and could cause the Company's potential revenues to decline.
The Company currently buys certain key components from a limited number of suppliers. The Company anticipates that these suppliers will manufacture these key components in sufficient amounts to meet its production requirements. If these suppliers fail to satisfy the Company's requirements on a timely basis and at competitive prices, the Company could suffer manufacturing delays, a possible loss of revenues or higher than anticipated costs of revenues, any of which could seriously harm its operating results.
Macroeconomic factors in regional markets may adversely affect the business.
Any significant deterioration in the general economic conditions would have an adverse effect on the Company's business, results of operations and financial condition. The success of the Company's operations depends to a significant extent upon a number of factors relating to discretionary consumer spending, including economic conditions (and perceptions of such conditions by consumers) affecting disposable consumer income such as employment, wages, salaries, business conditions, interest rates, availability of credit and taxation for the economy as
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a whole and in regional and local markets where the Company operates. There can be no assurance that consumer spending will not be adversely affected by general economic conditions, which could negatively impact the Company's results of operations and financial conditions. Any significant deterioration in general economic conditions or increases in interest rates may inhibit consumers' use of credit and cause a material adverse effect on the Company's revenues and profitability. Any significant deterioration in general economic conditions that adversely affect these companies could also have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, results of operations and financial condition.
Sales and Distribution
The Company has yet to establish a significant distribution and support network in certain markets. Failure on the part of the Company to put into place an experienced and effective marketing infrastructure in a timely manner could act to delay or negate the realization of anticipated revenues.
Market Acceptance
The viability of the Company is dependent upon the market acceptance of its current and future products. There is no assurance that the Company's products will attain a level of market acceptance that will allow for continuation and growth of its business operations. In addition, the Company will need to develop new processes and products to maintain its operations in the longer term. The development and launching of such processes and products can involve significant expenditure. There can be no assurance that the Company will have sufficient financial resources to fund such programs and whether such undertaking will be commercially successful.
Adequate Labor and Dependence upon Key personnel; No Employment Agreements
The Company will depend upon recruiting and maintaining qualified personnel to staff its operations. The Company believes that such personnel are currently available at reasonable salaries and wages. There can be no assurance, however, that such personnel will always be available in the future. The continuing development of the Company's products has been almost entirely dependent on the skills of management and certain key employees of the Company with which the Company has no employment agreements. Loss of the services of any of this management team and key employees could have a material adverse effect upon the Company.
The Company's growth depends on its ability to commercialize products.
Currently a significant amount of the Company's revenue comes from the Meridian product line that is central to the Company's growth strategy. This line of products encounters competition and is price sensitive. While the Company is currently developing new products, the Company cannot be assured that these products will reach the market on time, will satisfactorily address customer needs, will be sold in high volume, or will be sold at profitable margins.
The Company's operating expenses are anticipated to be relatively fixed and therefore the Company may have limited ability to reduce expenses quickly in response to any revenue shortfall.
The Company anticipates that its operating expenses will be relatively fixed, and the Company therefore has limited ability to reduce expenses quickly in response to any revenue shortfalls. Consequently, the Company's operating results will be harmed if the Company's revenues do not meet its revenue projections. The Company may experience revenue shortfalls for the following reasons:
- significant pricing pressures that occur due to competition, over supply, or other reasons;
- sudden shortages of raw materials or fabrication, test or assembly capacity constraints that lead the Company's suppliers to allocate available supplies or capacity to other customers which, in turn, harm the Company's ability to meet its sales obligations; and
- the reduction, restructuring or cancellation of customer orders.
The Company's markets are subject to rapid technological change.
The Company's markets are subject to rapid technological change and, therefore, its success depends upon the Company's ability to develop and introduce new products. The markets for the Company's products are characterized by:
- rapidly changing technologies;
- evolving and competing industry standards
- changing customer needs; and
- frequent new product introductions and enhancements.
To develop new products for its target markets, the Company must develop, gain access to and use leading technologies in a cost-effective and timely manner and continue to expand its technical and design expertise. In addition, the Company must have its products designed into its customers' future products and maintain close working relationships with key customers in order to develop new products that meet their changing needs.
The Company cannot be assured that it will be able to identify new product opportunities successfully, develop and bring to market new products, achieve design wins or respond effectively to new technological changes or product announcements by its competitors. In addition, the Company may not be successful in developing or using new technologies or in developing new products or product enhancements that
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achieve market acceptance. The pursuit of necessary technological advances may require substantial time and expense. Failure in any of these areas could harm the Company's anticipated operating results.
The Company's ability to compete successfully will depend, in part, on its ability to protect its intellectual property rights, which the Company may not be able to protect.
The Company relies on a combination of patent, trade secrets, and copyright, nondisclosure agreements and other contractual provisions and technical measures to protect its intellectual property rights. Policing unauthorized use of the Company's products is difficult, especially in foreign countries. Litigations may continue to be necessary in the future to enforce its intellectual property rights, to protect its trade secrets, to determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others, or to defend against claims of infringement or invalidity. Litigation could result in substantial costs and diversion of resources and could harm its business, operating results and financial condition regardless of the outcome of the litigation.
The Company cannot be assured that any pending patent application will be granted.
The Company has acquired ownership or exclusive license to a number of patents or patent applications related to its products. However, the Company cannot be assured that any pending patent application will be granted, or that all such patents can provide adequate protection for its intellectual property. The Company's operating results could be seriously harmed by the failure to protect its intellectual property. If the Company is accused of infringing the intellectual property rights of other parties, it may become subject to time-consuming and costly litigation. If the Company loses, it could suffer a significant impact on its business and it may be forced to pay damages. Third parties may assert that the Company's products infringe their proprietary rights, or may assert claims for indemnification resulting from infringement claims against it. Any such claims may cause the Company to delay or cancel shipment of its products or pay damages that could seriously harm its business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, irrespective of the validity or the successful assertion of such claims, the Company could incur significant costs in defending against such claims. The Company's litigation may be expensive, may be protracted, and confidential information may be compromised. Whether or not the Company is successful in any litigation, the Company expects the litigation to consume substantial amounts of its financial and managerial resources. Further, because of the substantial amount of discovery required in connection with this type of litigation, there is a risk that some of the Company's confidential information could be compromised by disclosure.
A limited number of customers generate a significant portion of the Company’s revenue.
The Company's accounts receivable are derived primarily from revenue earned from customers located in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Japan and Korea. In fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, sales to the Company's top 5 customers accounted for approximately 75%, 52% and 40% of net revenues, respectively. As of December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the Company’s top 5 customers accounted for approximately 85%, 73% and 51% of trade accounts receivable, respectively. A reduction, delay, or cancellation of orders from one or more of these customers or the loss of one or more customer relationships could significantly reduce the revenue.
Expansion of the Company’s operations abroad is important to its long-term successs, and its limited experience in the operation outside Korea increases the risk that each international expansion efforts would not be successful.
The Company's business may suffer due to risks associated with international sales and operations. The Company anticipates that export products will account for most of its revenues. International business activities are subject to a number of risks, each of which could impose unexpected costs of the Company that would have an adverse effect on its operating results. These risks include:
- difficulty in complying with regulatory requirements and standards;
- tariffs and other trade barriers;
- costs and risks of localizing products for foreign countries;
- reliance on third parties to distribute the Company's products;
- longer accounts receivable payment cycles;
- potentially adverse tax consequences;
- limits on repatriation of earnings; and
- burdens of complying with a wide variety of foreign laws
The Company anticipates that it will have to continue to depend on manufacturers' representatives, agents, and distributors to generate substantial amounts of its revenues.
The Company anticipates that it will have to continue to rely on manufacturers' representatives, agents, and distributors to sell a significant portion of its products, and these entities could discontinue selling its products at any time. The loss of any significant agent could seriously harm the Company's operating results.
The Company's success may be affected by unusual growth of competing new products.
There may be new products being introduced by competitors in the future which meet unusually high global demands. If the new products' customer base overlaps a substantial portion of the Company's products' customer base, or that the new products use the same key component as the Company's products, the demand for the Company's products or the supply of their key component may be reduced, which may seriously harm the Company's operations.
Shares Eligible for Future Sales
There has been no sustained market for the Company's shares, and there can be no assurance that a significant market will develop or be
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sustained. Future sales of substantial amounts of the Company's shares (including shares issued upon exercise of options and warrants) in the public market could adversely affect market prices prevailing from time to time and could impair the Company's ability to raise capital through sales of the Company's equity securities.
Country Risks
There are unique economic and political risks associated with investing in companies from Korea. Some of Korea's recent financial and economic difficulties have included:
- Exchange rate fluctuations;
- Interest rate fluctuations;
- Reduced credit from foreign banks;
- Volatile stock prices; and
- Higher unemployment.
Relations between South Korea and North Korea have been tense over most of Korea's history. The level of tension between the two Koreas has fluctuated and may increase or change abruptly as a result of current or future events. The occurrence of such events could have a material adverse effect on the Company's operations and the price of its shares.
Ownership of shares may be subject to certain restrictions under Korean law.
Prior to making an investment in 10% or more of the outstanding shares of a Korean company, foreign investors are generally required under Foreign Investment Promotion Law of Korea to submit a report to a Korean bank pursuant to a delegation by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy of Korea. Failure to comply with this reporting requirement may result in the imposition of criminal sanctions. Subsequent sales by such investors of its shares in such company will also require a prior report to such bank.
The Company may not be able to convert and remit dividends in Dollars if the Government imposes certain emergency measures.
The Company does not intend to pay dividends on its shares in the foreseeable future. However, if it declares cash dividends, such dividends will be declared in Won. In order for the Company to pay such dividends outside Korea, such dividends will be converted into Dollars and remitted to the shareholders, subject to certain conditions. Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Won and the Dollar will affect, among other things, the amounts a holder of shares of the Company will receive as dividends. Under Korean law, if the Government deems that certain emergency circumstances are likely to occur it may impose necessary restrictions. Emergency circumstances include, but are not limited to, sudden fluctuations in interest rates or exchange rates, extreme difficulty in stabilizing the balance of payments, or a substantial disturbance in the Korean financial and capital markets. The restrictions imposed by the Korean government could include requiring foreign investors to obtain prior approval from the Ministry of Finance and Economy for the acquisition of Korean securities or for the repatriation of interest, dividend or sales proceeds arising from Korean securities or from disposition of such securities, including the Company's shares.
The Company cannot give any assurance that it can secure such prior approval from the Ministry of Finance and Economy for payment of dividends to foreign investors in the future when the Government deems that there are emergency circumstances in the Korean financial market.
The Company's ability to raise money in equity offerings may be constrained by the need to register those offerings with the SEC.
The Commercial Code of Korea and the Company's Articles of Incorporation require the Company, with certain exceptions, to offer shareholders the right to subscribe for new shares in proportion to their existing ownership percentage whenever new shares are issued. The Company cannot exclude U.S. holders of shares from these offers, and must thus register those offers with the SEC. If the Company cannot, or chooses not to register these offerings, the Company will be unable to consummate them, which will restrict the range of capital raising options available to the Company.
Compliance with corporate governance regulations could increase the cost of our operations
As a result of changing laws, regulations and standards relating to accounting, corporate governance and public disclosure, the costs of being a public company in general have increased in recent years. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires changes in some of corporate governance and securities disclosure or compliance practices. The Company expects that the on-going implementation of these regulations will further increase its legal compliance costs and will make some activities more time consuming. The Company is presently planning and implementing regulatory developments and cannot estimate the magnitude of additional costs it may incur as a result of such developments in connection with its future implementation of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which governs.
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ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
A. HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY
Meridian Co., Ltd. (“Meridian” or the “Company”) was incorporated in the Republic of Korea on April 19, 1994 for the purpose of developing and manufacturing medical devices, particularly to the integrative medical markets. In July 1998, the Company completed the acquisition of Hippo Medical Devices Co. Ltd. ("Hippo"), a Korean company that was engaged in selling medical equipment. The acquisition of Hippo by Meridian was a synergistic union whereby the sales and distribution offices of Hippo were consolidated with the research and manufacturing divisions of the Company.
On August 30, 1999, the Company agreed to sell, in an arm's length transaction, certain assets amounting to $1,284,556 relating to two product lines acquired in the 1998 acquisition of Hippo, to Medicore Co. Ltd., an unrelated Korean company. In return, Medicore assumed certain liabilities, primarily attributed to the two product lines, of the Company in the same amount. These product lines are the Urea Breath Test Device (UBT) and Infra-Red Imaging System (IR-2000). This transaction was completed on December 31, 1999.
Pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the Merger Agreement) dated February 6, 2001, the Company acquired all the outstanding shares of common stock of By George Holding, Corp. (By George), a Georgia corporation, from the shareholders thereof in an exchange of an aggregate of 68,142 shares (equivalent to 1,703,550 post split shares) of common stock of the Company and other consideration of payments of certain fees and expenses. Immediately following the Acquisition, ABR Meridian (Georgia) Inc. (Subco), a Georgia corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, merged with By George (the Merger) in a transaction in which the Subco became the surviving corporation.
Upon effectiveness of the Acquisition and Merger, pursuant to Rule 12g-13(a) of the General Rules and Regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Company elected to become the successor issuer to By George for reporting purposes under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the 1934 Act) and elects to report under the 1934 Act effective February 12, 2001.
On February 13, 2002, the Company's common stock was accepted for quotation by the NASD on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol MRDAF.
The Company's corporate head office is located at 3F, Poonglim Tech-one BLDG, 273-10, Seongsu-Dong 2ga, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul Korea 133-120.
In February 2004, the Company received an approval for a debt restructuring plan for a total of 4,697,927,000 Won from Chooncheon District Court, Korea. The adjusted period of payment is generally 7 years after 3 years of grace period.
B. BUSINESS OVERVIEW
Meridian is an established leader in the research, development, manufacturing, and marketing of integrative medical devices in the healthcare industry.
With a dynamic research and development team, Meridian is at the forefront in the development of cutting edge medical technologies. The Company presently holds a total of 5 registered and pending patents, 2 design rights and 7 trademarks and has received 4 FDA 510(k) clearances for their medical devices. In order to distribute worldwide, Meridian has also gained 3 SDA approvals in China and 3 FIP approvals in South America. Successfully marketed in Korea, Japan, EU, Turkey, Middle East, USA, Canada, and China, Meridian continues to provide its superior product line to a growing number of clients worldwide. Meridian has over 5,000 clients, which include physicians, hospitals, healthcare professionals, medical device manufacturers, beauty salons and health and fitness centers.
The Company believes that blending together a combination of intrinsic medical knowledge with superior software and technology it can create high quality physiological monitoring applications that capitalize on the growing wellness market.
Meridian’s strength lies in the unique knowledge base and skills of our team who possess medical backgrounds, software engineering skills, and a sincere passion for preventative medicine that can improve the quality of one’s life. As a part of Company’s continuing effort, the Company completed the development of the Composition Corpulence Curer as an aid in the reduction of body fat during 2002.
On September 26, 2001 the Beijing Meridian Medical Equipment Co., Ltd. (“BMMEC”) was established to further pursue the Company's business in China. BMMEC is a joint corporation formed by Meridian Co., Ltd. and Mr. Trigon Jung, investor and president of BMMEC. The main business of BMMEC is publicity activities and setting up dealership networks for sales in China. Also, Meridian is planning to give BMMEC a manufacturing license for its products in the future. Expected sales in China have not materialized according to the Company's expectations, however, the Company will continue to market their product to the Chinese market.
The Company identified the United States as a significant market and incorporated Meridian America Medical Inc (“MAMI”) in the United States as a subsidiary of the Company, in February 2002, in preparation for the launch of the Meridian products into the US market.
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On March 4, 2002, Meridian acquired 100% ownership of Meridian America Medicals, Inc. located in the city of Irvine, California, USA to establish distribution post for the North American market. On December 13, 2004 and February 15, 2005, Meridian America Medicals, Inc. issued new common stock, of which the shares were entirely subscribed by a non-controlling shareholder, Meridian Medical, Inc. Consequently; the ownership by Meridian was diluted from 100% to 75.76% .
In 2004, Meridian Co. Ltd. entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with a corporation in Vancouver, BC, Canada, Meridian Medical Inc. has been fully concentrating on the marketing and sales of the DPA and Lapex-2000. Meridian Medical has secured valuable strategic relationships since its inception and is expected to continue its success in the market adding further value to Meridian Co. Ltd.
On September 29, 2005, Meridian acquired 100% ownership of Rapha & Health Co., Ltd. for 50 million Won in cash to systemize its sales process in domestic (Korea) market. On June 7, 2006, Rapha & Health Co., Ltd. changed its name to Meitian Co., Ltd. However, Meitian Co., Ltd. closed down in April 2008, so that Meridian could concentrate its resources on the overseas markets.
As of December 31, 2007, the Company achieved more than $3.5 Million in sales to the U.S. market through MAMI and expects a further significant increase in sales to the United States in the next year.
The Company currently sells four different products to healthcare practitioners throughout the domestic and overseas market. These include DPA (Digital Pulse Analyzer), Lapex-2000, Lapex BCS (Lapex-2000 LipoLaser), and Meridian II.
Products of the Company
The Meridian line of products includes DPA (Digital Pulse Analyzer), Lapex-2000, LAPEX BCS (Lapex-2000 LipoLaser), and Meridian II.
Digital Pulse Analyzer
The DPA uses pulse waveform analysis to measure arterial compliance. The pulse wave is the arterial pressure change that originates from the heart and transmits through an artery. The pulse wave is changed by the systolic power of the heart, the vascular condition (the arterial elasticity, resistance, etc.), and the functional status of cardio-vascular circulation. DPA irradiates IR (infrared) through the finger-tip and obtains pulse wave information with the light absorbing characteristics of HbO2 of arterial blood. All measurements, calculations, analysis, and printouts can be performed automatically in less than a minute with a fully non-invasive method.
Automated Digital Pulse Waveform Exam
- Useful device in detecting early signs of cardiovascular dysfunction.
- Loss of arterial compliance, can be detected in early stages.
- Uses pulse wave analysis.
- Completely non-invasive
- Diagnosis can be done in a little as one minute.
- Results are immediate and can be saved to a patient database
The DPA (Digital Arterial Pulsewave Analyzer) has the additional feature of measuring heart rate variability(HRV), which gives a good indication of the condition of the autonomic nervous system. The software has the capability to store all of the patient's data. The structure is configured with a DPA console, SpO2 electrode, and computer software with WINDOWS base.
Lapex-2000
The Lapex-2000 is a semiconductor laser therapeutic device, which applies a laser to the foci of the human body without damaging the skin tissue and, in turn, promotes healing of any damaged skin tissue. The use of laser therapy facilities increases blood flow, vitalization of cells, and increases protein synthesis which can assist in the treatment of soft tissue damage, acute and chronic joint diseases, chronic pain, and improvement of circulation.
The Lapex-2000 comes equipped with an advanced digital semiconductor laser.
ASPECT LAPEX-2000 DESCRIPTION
Features:
Advanced digital semiconductor laser, solid curative effect, semi-permanent
No other supplies are necessary
Non-invasive laser
Practical for small spaces, easy to move
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Structure:
Point Laser Probe - Trigger Point Monitoring Function and Applying Laser to Trigger Point
Multi Laser Probe - To address the largely affected parts at once
LIB (Laser Irradiation of Blood) probe - Non-invasive irradiation of venous blood, easy to operate, solid curative effect
Lapex BCS (Lapex-2000 LipoLaser)
LAPEX BCS is a modified version of the Lapex-2000 specifically to target the growing obesity market. The LAPEX BCS's non-invasive treatment is considered one of the most innovative methods of body contouring to liquefy adipose tissue under skin layer, and the demand for this type of treatment is expected to grow rapidly, not only in the plastic surgery profession, but in any clinical and aesthetic setting, such as spas and wellness centers, that treat localized body fat deposits which may not have responded to diet and exercise.
It uses 2 multi-beam and 2 enhanced probes which irradiate a powerful cold red laser (635 – 680nm/ 40mW) on adipose (fat) Cell.
Meridian-II
The Meridian-II is a computer assisted assessment and diagnostic device, which is based on the analysis technique, pioneered by Dr. Reinhold Voll, a German medical doctor. Termed Electro-Acupuncture according to Voll (E.A.V.), the assessment process incorporates elements of Western science and principles of traditional Chinese medicine. Practitioners use electrical, magnetic, sonic, acoustic, microwave and infrared devices to screen for or treat health conditions by detecting imbalances in the body's energy field and then correcting them. E.A.V. works by measuring the meridian lines on the hands and feet that correspond to the different organs in the body. The purpose of E.A.V. is to establish a functional testing of organs and tissues by measuring their respective acupuncture points. The conductance (capacity to let the stimulation current through) of an organ or a tissue is measured in order to discover any energetically unbalanced points. It is believed that the energetic equilibrium of a human is altered, among other things, by the negative ambiance influence exercised by some medications, stress, poisons, insecticides, viruses, bacteria, harmful electromagnetic fields and inflammations as well as certain ailments.
The Meridian-II is a computer assisted assessment and diagnostic device that establishes a functional testing of organs and tissues by measuring their respective acupuncture points and delivers a complete computer drafted evaluation for analysis. If stress or imbalance is detected in a patient, the Meridian-II can identify the meridian imbalances in a person's body and also assist the practitioner in recommending a course of treatment or therapy to alleviate the stress or to restore balance to the body's meridian systems. This provides the health practitioner with the ability to detect a potential health problem early and to treat it before the problem manifests itself. Using the Meridian-II, the practitioner can monitor the progress of corrective therapies. The device is in the structure of a cart that includes a touch screen monitor, computer, printer, a set of medical instruments and supplemental parts including hand and foot electrodes.
ASPECTS MERIDIAN-II DESCRIPTION
Features: | |
Point finder (ARC) | |
MS WINDOWS 98 | |
Acupuncture Point finder (ARC) / Better curative effect (UPM) | |
Easy operation (TOUCH SCREEN) | |
Single body design | |
Structure: | |
Main body - CART in exclusive use PC: | |
P-233MHz CPU, 32MB MEMORY, 6.4GB HDD | |
WINDOWS 98 OS, 40X CD-ROM, AGP 4MB VGA |
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Revenue by Geographic Market
Sales revenue is attributable to geographic locations based on the location of the customer, as follows: (Korean Won (\) in thousands)
2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||
Export | |||||||||
U.S.A. | \ | 779,307 | \ | 470,532 | \ | 576,699 | |||
Asia | 1,109,121 | 71,092 | 26,304 | ||||||
Europe | 266,629 | - | 7,100 | ||||||
Other | 111,036 | 56,372 | - | ||||||
2,266,093 | 597,996 | 610,103 | |||||||
Domestic Sales | 338,448 | 928,832 | 824,416 | ||||||
\ | 2,604,541 | \ | 1,526,828 | \ | 1,434,519 |
Industry Background
The medical instruments industry is characterized by low-volume production of various medical equipments and apparatus. It contains components from a diverse range of industries such as electronics, advanced materials and information technology and includes the fields of physics, chemistry, biology and medicine. In many countries, government support is provided in the medical instruments industry as a priority industry. This industry tends to be technology-intensive, low energy consuming and non-polluting.
Size of Industry
World Medical Electronic Device Market
The demand for medical electronic devices is influenced by an increasing patient population and the focus on health care cost containment and preventative therapies. Medical devices include a broad range of surgical devices and equipment used in cardiovascular, orthopedics, respiratory, ophthalmic, neurology, urinary, disposable, infection and more. In the fact, World Medical Market reported that the global medical electronic device market was valued at $176 billion in 2006, of which $97 billion was generated from the U.S. market.
The U.S. is still the largest electronic medical device market and leads the world in advanced medical technologies. The U.S. medical device industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.2 percent between 2006 and 2010. It will continue to develop new innovative devices in minimal invasive surgery, cardiovascular, and orthopedic implants. However, cost containment constraints in the healthcare system have contributed to hospital cutbacks in medical device purchases.
The medical electronic device industry outside of the U.S. has grown significantly in recent decades. In 2006, foreign markets accounted for 47 percent of the global medical device industry. Among these countries, Serbia (12.4%), Russia (9.7%) and Ukraine (8.9%) have the highest growth rates while top 3 markets, the US, Japan and Germany have 5.9%, 2.5% and 2.1% respectively. (KHDI, Medical Device Industry Research, December 2006)
Cardiovascular Device Market (U.S.)
According to US Medical Device Outlook, May 2005 published by Frost & Sullivan, the total revenue generated from medical device market in the U.S. was close to $68 billion in 2004. The revenue in the U.S. medical device market is expected to grow average 11.7% annually until 2011. The revenue from cardiovascular devices was the highest, $12.5 billion and it was more than 23% of the total revenue. With the expected annual growth rate at 16.8% until 2011, the cardiovascular device industry is expected to be remaining the biggest industry in the U.S. medical device market for next several years. (Medical Market & Technology Information, March 2007, Medical Device Intelligence)
Medical Laser Market
In 2007, Global Industry Analysts, Inc. reported that the estimated size of the world medical laser system market US$4 billion in 2007. United States is the largest market for medical laser systems worldwide at an estimated US$2.4 billion in 2007. Europe is the second largest market followed by Japan at a distant third. United States and Europe together account for about 82 percent of the global share. The global and regional markets are expected to grow at CAGRs ranging between 9% and 13%. The expected global market value in 2010 is $5.8 billion.
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C. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
Meridian Co., Ltd. was incorporated under the laws of Korea on April 19, 1994 as a private company. The Company operates from its both corporate head office and manufacturing plant are located at 3F, Poonglim Tech-one Bldg, 273-10, Seongsu-Dong 2ga, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul Korea 133-120.
As of December 31, 2007, the Company had two subsidiaries. The acquisition dates and Meridian Co., Ltd.'s ownership percentages of its consolidated subsidiaries as at December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are as follows:
Acquisition | Percentage ownership at December 31, | |||||
Subsidiary | Country of Incorporation | Primary Business | Date | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 |
Meridian America | Wholesale and retail of | March 4, | ||||
Medicals, Inc. | USA | medical equipment | 2002 | 75.76% | 75.76% | 75.76% |
September 29, | ||||||
Meitian Co., Ltd | " | 100.00% | 100.00% | 100.00% | ||
Korea | 2005 |
On March 4, 2002, Meridian acquired 100% ownership of Meridian America Medicals, Inc. located in the city of Irvine, California, USA to establish distribution post for the North American market. On December 13, 2004 and February 15, 2005, Meridian America Medicals, Inc. issued new common stock, of which the shares were entirely subscribed by a non-controlling shareholder, Meridian Medical, Inc. Consequently; the ownership by Meridian was diluted from 100% to 75.76% .
On September 29, 2005, Meridian acquired 100% ownership of Rapha & Health Co., Ltd. for 50 million Won in cash to systemize its sales process in domestic (Korea) market. On June 7, 2006, Rapha & Health Co., Ltd. changed its name to Meitian Co., Ltd. However, Meitian Co., Ltd. closed down in April 2008, so that Meridian could concentrate its resources on the overseas markets.
Directors and Senior Management Team
HYEON-SEONG MYEONG, President, CEO and Director
Mr. Myeong graduated from the Seoul National University in 1982 with a degree in Electronic Engineering. From 1983 to 1988 he was Section Chief of Research Center for the GoldStar (LG Electronics) Company. From 1990 to 1991 Mr. Myeong was Division Chief of Research for Medison Co. Ltd., a large Korean medical device company. From 1992 to 1993 he was the Chief of the International Technical Coordination and the Vice President of a Joint Corporation with Russia (Ultramed) as a director of Medison Co., Ltd. Since 1994, Mr. Myeong has been the President and CEO of the Company and is the founder of the Company.
IN BEOM PARK, Secretary and Director
Mr. Park graduated from the Seoul National University with a degree in Sociology. From 1991 to 1998 he was the head of the Development & Planning Department of Kia Techono Co., Ltd. He was the Founder of Eduevision Korea Co., Ltd. in 1999. Mr. Park joined Meridian in 2002 as the head of the Planning Department.
SOON WOONG JANG, Director (appointed as a director on March, 2006)
Mr. Jang graduated from Korea University in South Korea with Agriculture as his major. From 1988 to 1992 he was the Business Manager for Hyundai Department Store, a subsidiary of KeumKang Development Industrial Co., Ltd. He established Samgong Distribution Co., Ltd., a wholesale distributor, and had been a CEO of Samgong until 2003. From 2001 he has been a vice president of Korea E-commerce Association. On March 31, 2006, he was appointed a Director of Meridian.
D. PROPERTY, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT
The Company relocated its factory from Kangwon Province to Seoul in November 2005. The previous factory in Kangwon Province (687-6, Sangohan-Ri, Hongchun-Eup, Hongchun-Kun, Kangwon-Do, Korea) was disposed to repay its debts to pre-emptive creditors and Chohung Bank.
The Company signed the lease contract for its current office and factory at 3F, Poonglim Tech-One Bldg, 273-10, Seongsu-dong 2ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, Korea in June 2006. The Company’s products are assembled from purchased and manufactured components at its factory. Virtually all of the components making up the Company’s products are readily available from domestic suppliers. Some of the components have been designed by the Company and/or are custom manufactured to its specifications.
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
The following discussion and analysis is based on and should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, and other financial information appearing elsewhere herein. The audited consolidated financial
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statements have been prepared using Korean Won and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
A. OPERATING RESULTS
Year comparisons between 2007, 2006, and 2005
For the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company achieved sales revenue of 2,604,541 thousand Won ($2,783,224) resulting in a gross profit of 1,785,123 thousand Won ($1,907,590) compared with sales revenues of 1,526,828 thousand Won that resulted in a gross profit of 935,009 thousand Won for the year ended December 31, 2006 and sales revenues of 1,434,519 thousand Won that resulted in a gross profit of 335,325 thousand Won for the year ended December 31, 2005.
The sales revenue in 2007 has increased by 70.6% from 2006 and was 81.6% higher than 2005, the gross profit in 2007 has increased by 90.9% from 2006 and has increased 432.4% from 2005. Moreover, the gross margin in 2007 was 68.5% compared to 61.2% in 2006 and 23.4% in 2005. The significant increases of gross profit and gross margin in 2007 and 2006 were due to successful transition of the Company’s target market and its products that were generating larger sales and higher margins. Sales of the Company’s new products, Lapex BCS and DPA was 93.8% of the total sales revenue in 2007 and 89.5% in 2006 compared with 59.8% in 2005. Especially, in 2007, the Company has successfully launched Lapex BCS to Japan and Europe. As a result, the sales generated from oversea market were 2,266,093 thousand Won ($2,421,557) and 87% of the total sales revenue of the Company in 2007.
The Company’s operating loss has increased to 562,346 thousand Won ($600,926) in 2007 from the loss of 251,407 thousand Won in 2006 and from a loss of 1,957,847 thousand Won in 2005. The increase in the operating loss in 2007 from 2006 and 2005 was due primarily to the increase of selling, general and administrative expenses. The total operating expense in 2007 was 2,042,162 thousand Won ($2,182,264), 83.8% increase from 2006, due to increases in salaries, and commissions and fees for the expansion of the Company’s operations and new market (region) preparation.
For the research and development, the Company has expensed 305,307 thousand Won ($326,252), 75,309 thousand Won and 100,201 thousand Won during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. In the same period, working capital deficit has decreased to 2,584,394 thousand Won ($2,761,693) at December 31, 2007 from working capital deficits of 4,237,797 thousand Won and 2,788,448 thousand Won at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
The Company has appropriated 267,608 thousand Won of retained earnings for future investment and business rationalization. The appropriation was a legal requirement in Korea until 2001 when the applicable statute was repealed. There are presently no restrictions on the use of the appropriation for business rationalization.
B. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The following table sets forth the summary of our cash flows for the periods indicated:
For the Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||
2007(1) | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||||
(Korean Won (\) in thousands,and US$) | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | US$ | (2,082,805 | ) | \ | (1,949,090 | ) | \ | (165,145 | ) | \ | (1,108,499 | ) |
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | (102,574 | ) | (95,988 | ) | 125,565 | 923,606 | ||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 2,293,818 | 2,146,556 | 19,000 | 165,729 | ||||||||
Net increase(decrease) in cash | 108,439 | 101,478 | (20,580 | ) | (19,164 | ) | ||||||
Cash at beginning of period | 2,552 | 2,387 | 22,967 | 42,131 | ||||||||
Cash at end of period | 110,991 | 103,865 | 2,387 | 22,967 |
Note:
For the convenience of the reader, the Won amounts are expressed in US$ at the rate of Won 935.8 to US$1.00, the exchange rate announced by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on December 31, 2007.
Our primary source of liquidity is cash flow from financing activities.
Net cash used in operating activities was Won 1949,090 thousand ($2,082,805) in 2007, Won 165,145 thousand in 2006 and Won 1,108,499 thousand in 2005. We have not been able to generate positive cash flow from operating activities over the last three years as we have recorded net losses in each year.
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Net cash used in investing activities was Won 95,988 thousand ($102,574) in 2007, mainly due to the increase of the tangible asset acquisitions. We generated positive cash flow from investing activities of Won 125,565 thousand in 2006, mainly from the decrease in short-term loans. Net cash provided by investing activities was Won 923,606 thousand in 2005, primarily due to proceeds from the sale of our plant and equipment in 2005.
Net cash provided by financing activities was Won 2,146,556 thousand ($2,293,818) in 2007, reflecting the increase in our capital stock. Net cash provided by financing activities was Won 19,000 thousand in 2006 and Won 165,729 thousand in 2005, mainly due to the issuance of short-term borrowings.
C. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES, ETC.
Research and Development
It is the goal of the Company to continually make enhancements and improvements to its products. Costs incurred to make routine enhancements or improvements, design changes to existing products and trouble shooting in production are excluded from research and development expenses.
Proprietary Technology and Other Intellectual Properties
The Company has 5 registered and pending patents, 2 design rights and 7 trademarks at the Korea and Japan Industrial Property Office. The Company also has 1 pending patent under the Patent Cooperation Treaty as well as the United States and EU, China, Canada. The Company believes that Korean intellectual property laws and regulations afford owners of intellectual property protections similar to those enjoyed by owners of intellectual property in the United States. Korean intellectual property laws were amended at the end of 1995 to harmonize them with the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights Agreement.
The Company’s registered patents are summarized in the following table:
TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION | REGISTRATION NUMBER | DATE OF REGISTRATION |
(PATENTS) | ||
Diagnostic device using the electric features of the human body | 130791 | November – 97 |
Automatic detection of meridians by probe device | 210233 | April – 99 |
Pulse formation analysis device | 0368021 | December – 02 |
Laser beam irradiation device | 0457964 | January – 03 |
Adipose Resolve Apparatus for Low-Power LASER: Korea | 0653441 | March – 06 |
Adipose Resolve Apparatus for Low-Power LASER: PCT | PCT – KR20061000694 | May – 06 |
Adipose Resolve Apparatus for Low-Power LASER: Japan | 2008-511428 | May – 08 |
Adipose Resolve Apparatus for Low-Power LASER: USA (pending) | 11-577356 | May – 07 |
Adipose Resolve Apparatus for Low-Power LASER: EU (pending) | - | September – 07 |
Adipose Resolve Apparatus for Low-Power LASER: Canada (pending) | 200680004048 | August – 07 |
Adipose Resolve Apparatus for Low-Power LASER: China (pending) | - | August – 07 |
(DESIGN) | ||
Electrode holder for laser treatment | 0302314 | June – 02 |
Electrode for laser treatment | 0302315 | June – 02 |
(TRADEMARK) | ||
BRIEF | 345494 | August – 96 |
BRD | 409677 | July – 98 |
Lapex | 500915 | September – 01 |
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Biomeridian | 0522196 | June – 02 |
Pulsecare | 0538120 | December – 02 |
Mcview | 0531965 | October – 02 |
Meridian CI Logo | 0685047 | November 06 |
The Company relies on a combination of patent and trade secrets to establish and protect the proprietary rights in its products. In order to protect and support current and future development of its products, the Company expects that it will continue to make application for patents at the Korea Industrial Property Office. The Company believes that the ownership of patents will be a significant factor in contributing to its business. However, the success of the Company will depend primarily on the innovative skills, technical competence and marketing abilities of its personnel. In addition, there can be no assurances that the Company’s current and future patent applications will be granted, or if granted, that the claims covered by the patents will not be reduced from those included in the Company’s applications. Claims by third parties that the Company’s current or future products infringe upon their intellectual property rights may have a material adverse effect on the Company. Intellectual property litigation is complex and expensive and the outcome of this litigation is difficult to predict. Any future litigation, regardless of outcome, may result in substantial expense to the Company and significant diversion of the Company’s management and technical personnel.
Regulatory Restrictions
Use of the Company’s products internationally is subject to various government regulatory requirements on a country-by-country basis. Europe, the U.S., Canada, Australia, Japan and China each have their own product certification systems. As a result, this has slowed the process for the Company to expand in the world market. Even if there are no technical difficulties, its products are directly involved with human life, and require that the Company obtain government approval of clinical safety for the products through various analysis and testing procedures. The table below includes all the regions in the world where Meridian’s products have been approved for sale.
REGION | REGULATION | PRODUCTS APPROVED |
Korea | KFDA | Meridian-II, ABR-2000, Lapex–2000 (LipoLaser), DPA (Digital Pulse Analyzer) |
China | SDA | Meridian-II, ABR – 2000, Lapex-2000 |
U.S.A. | FDA | Meridian-II, Meridian Portable, Lapex-2000, ABR-2000, Digital Pulse Analyzer Lapex-2000 LipoLaser (pending), Lapex-BCS (pending) |
Canada | Health Canada | DPA (Digital Pulse Analyzer), Lapex-2000 LipoLaser |
South America | FIP | Meridian-II, ABR – 2000, Lapex-2000 |
EU | CE EMC, CE LVD CE MDD | Lapex-2000 (Lapex BCS): CE LVD, CE EMC DPA: CE MDD |
International | ISO13485:2003 ISO13485:CMDCAS | Quality Assurance System for DPA and Laser Therapy Device |
D. TREND INFORMATION
The operations of the Company have been significantly affected, and may continue to be affected for the foreseeable future, by the general unstable economic conditions in Korea and in the Asia Pacific region. The curtailed economic activity in the Company’s traditional markets resulted in a significant decline in the Company’s sales, production and inventory from 2003 to 2005. The Company is actively seeking to expand its sales into new markets, principally the United States, Europe and Japan. From 2005, the Company is in transition of its target market, mainly preventive medicine and medical laser market with Lapex-BCS (LipoLaser) and DPA. These two products contributed 94% of the total sales revenue in 2007 and 90% in 2006. In 2007, the sales portions from the US, Europe and Asia (excluding Korea) were 30%, 10% and 43% of the total revenue of the Company.
E. OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
Not applicable.
F. TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
Payments due (by period) (Korean Won (\) in thousands) | |||||||||||||||
Less than | more than | ||||||||||||||
Contractual Obligations | Total | one year | 1-3 years | 3-5 years | 5 years | ||||||||||
Long-term accounts payable | \ | 1,252,017 | \ | 940,123 | \ | 311,894 | \ | - | \ | - | |||||
Lease obligations | 55,616 | 55,616 | - | - | - | ||||||||||
Long-term debt obligations(1) | 3,055,298 | 872,942 | 872,942 | 872,942 | 436,472 |
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Debentures(2) | 1,500,000 | 428,572 | 428,571 | 428,570 | 214,287 | ||||||||||
Subtotal – borrowings | 4,555,298 | 1,301,514 | 1,301,513 | 1,301,512 | 650,759 | ||||||||||
Grand total | \ | 5,862,931 | \ | 2,297,253 | \ | 1,613,407 | \ | 1,301,512 | \ | 650,759 |
(1) See Note 11. “Long-Term Borrowings” of consolidated financial statements.
(2) The Company had issued two series of non-guaranteed corporate bonds in 2001. The Company received an approval for debt restructuring plan including debentures. As a result, two series of debentures were reclassified to long-term borrowings and the Company extended the maturity date of those long-term borrowings to December 31, 2013 with a reduced interest rate (3.5% per annum).
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
A. DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT
See Item 4.C.
B. COMPENSATION
Name & Principal (Position) | Year | Salary | Bonus | Accrued Severance | All Other | ||||||||||
(US$) | (US$) | Benefits (US$) | Compensation | ||||||||||||
Myeong, Hyeon-Seong (Director, President, CEO) | 2007 | 62,834 | Nil | 68,808 | Nil | ||||||||||
Park, In Beom (Director, General Manager) | 2007 | 53,858 | Nil | 9,724 | Nil | ||||||||||
Soon Woong Jang | 2007 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil |
*Hyeon Seong Myeong was granted options for 2,218 shares of the Company’s common stock at the price of 680 Won in March 2001 (expired in February 2008).
Compensation of Directors
Directors and directors who are also employees of the Company receive no extra compensation for their services on the Board of Directors of the Company.
Employment Contracts with employees and officers
The Company has not entered into any employment contracts, but anticipates entering into employment contracts with certain management and other key personnel.
C. BOARD PRACTICES
Not applicable
D. EMPLOYEES
The Company has 21 employees in the following areas:
Department | Number of Employees |
Finance and Accounting | 4 |
Sales | 4 |
Customer Support | 2 |
Business Administration | 1 |
Research and Development | 3 |
Technical Support | 4 |
Purchasing | 1 |
Quality Control | 2 |
Total | 21 |
There were no significant changes in number of employees during the past three years.
E. SHARE OWNERSHIP
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The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial ownership of the common stock of the Company as of December 31, 2007 and June 20, 2008, (a) each of the Company’s directors and officers, and (b) all directors and officers of the Company, as a group:
Name and address of beneficial owner | Amount Stock | Percentage of | Percentage of |
and position with the company | Beneficially Owned | Class as of Dec.31,2007 | Class as of June 20, 2008 |
Myeong, Hyeong-seong. (President, CEO and Director) #997-4 Daechi-dong Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea | 971,500 common shares | 2.78% | 2.78% |
In Beom Park (Director) #603 605, JungSan town, Ilsan-dong, Ilsan-gu, Goyang-city, KyungKi-do, Korea | Nil | Nil | Nil |
Soon Woong Jang (Director) #122-75 Noranggin dong, Dongjak-gu, Korea, | Nil | Nil | Nil |
All officers and Directors as a | |||
Group | 971,500 | 2,78% | 2.78% |
Stock Option Plans
Under the Company’s Articles of Incorporation, the Company may grant options for the purchase of its shares to certain qualified officers and employees. Set forth below are the details of the Company’s stock option plan as currently contained in its Articles of Incorporation (the “Stock Option Plan”). In order to qualify for participation in the Stock Option Plan, officers and employees must have the ability to contribute to, the establishment, development or technological innovation of the Company. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the following criteria shall not be eligible to receive options under the Stock Option Plan; (i) the Company’s largest shareholder and its specially related parties, as defined in the Securities and Exchange Act of Korea (the “Securities Act of Korea”), (ii) major shareholders and their specially related parties, as defined in the Securities Act of Korea, and (iii) any shareholder who would become a major shareholder upon exercise of stock options granted under the Stock Option Plan. Under the Securities Act of Korea, a major shareholder is defined as a shareholder who (i) holds 10% or more of shares issued and outstanding or (ii) has actual control over major management decisions. Under the Securities Act of Korea the largest shareholder of a company is the person who holds the largest number of issued and outstanding shares of the company. The specific terms and conditions of stock options granted under the Stock Option Plan shall be approved at a duly convened shareholders’ meeting. Under the Company’s Articles of Incorporation, stock options shall be offered through (i) issuance of new shares, or (ii) payment in cash or treasury stock held by the Company of the difference between the market price of its shares and the option exercise price. The maximum aggregate number of the Company’s shares available for issuance under the Stock Option Plan shall not exceed 15% of the total number of its shares outstanding. The stock options may not be granted to all officers and employees at the same time. Any single officer or employee may not be granted stock options for the shares exceeding 10% of the shares issued and outstanding. Stock options granted under the Stock Option Plan will have a minimum exercise price equal to the arithmetic mean of (i) the weighted average of the daily market share prices for the two-month period prior to the date on which the stock options are granted, (ii) the weighted average of the daily market share prices for the one-month period prior to such date and (iii) the weighted average of the daily market share prices for the one-week period prior to such date. When new shares are issued upon the exercise of the stock options, the option exercise price shall not be less than the par value of the Company’s shares. Stock options granted under the Stock Option Plan may be exercised after the third anniversary date of the shareholders’ meeting at which the grant of stock options under the Stock Option Plan is approved but prior to the seventh anniversary date thereof, unless otherwise revoked by the board of directors. The board of directors may revoke stock options granted under the Stock Option Plan if (i) a beneficiary resigns prior to the exercise of the stock options, (ii) the beneficiary causes significant loss to the Company by his or her negligence or willful misconduct, or (iii) an event of termination specified in the Stock Option Plan occur. Shares purchased upon the exercise of stock options granted under the Stock Option Plan will not, at the time of their issuance, be registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission but may be salable in the public market in the United States in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act and applicable Korean laws and regulations.
The Company adopted the following material changes with respect to its Stock Option Plan:
persons entitled to receive stock options has been expanded to include researchers, faculty members of a university, practicing lawyers, certified public accountants who possess technological or managerial capabilities and Universities and Research Institutes;
the number of stock options granted at any one time cannot exceed 50% of the total issued and outstanding shares of the Company; and.
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- stock option holders shall be entitled to exercise their stock options only after having served in the Company for two (2) years.
On March 19, 2001, the Company granted stock options to its executive officers, directors and 13 employees to purchase 425,250 common shares at an exercise price of Won 680 per share. The options will vest on March 19, 2004 and are exercisable until March 18, 2008.
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
A. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS
The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of our shares as of December 31, 2007 and June 20, 2008), by each person known to us to own beneficially more than five percent (5%) of our shares.
Name and address | Amount Stock | Percentage of Class | Percentage of Class | Number of |
Beneficially Owned | of Dec.31, 2007 | of June 20,2008 | Stock Option Held | |
Terasource Funds (Muhan Investment Co., Ltd.) including: Terasource Kosdaq Venture Investment (2,066,700 common shares); Terasource Venture Investment Capital (403,900 common shares); Terasource Venture Capital Fund 2 (1,070,270 common shares); Terasource Venture Capital Fund 3 (1,551,350 common shares); Terasource Venture Capital Fund 4 (378,380 common shares); 8FR Dongshin Bldg. 141-30 Samseong-dong, Kangnam-gu Seoul, Korea | 5,470,600 common shares | 15.63% | 15.63% | Nil |
The Hong Group of Companies including: Serome Investment Co. Ltd. (1,085,675shares), 151-7 Samseong-Dong Kangnam-Gu Seoul Korea; Mok-Won Assets Management Co. Ltd (1,375,000 shares),2004 Ho, Anam tower 702-10 Yuksam-dong Kangnam-ku, Seoul, Korea; Bio & Medical Research Co. Ltd. (524,425 shares), 702-10 Yuksam-dong, Kangnam-ku, Seoul, Korea; Ki-tae Hong (127,800 shares) and Hye-sook Lee (213,000 shares)151-7 Samseong-Dong, Kangnam-Gu, Seoul, Korea | 3,325,900 common shares | 9.50% | 9.50% | Nil |
Note: Every shareholder’s right and interest is not different. |
Securities held in the host country
The Company has legally issued its shares and complied with the filing requirements pursuant to the SEC regulations. However, 13,885,159 common shares issued through S-8 registrations, (i) for acquisition of By George Holdings, (ii) debt-for-equity swap on October 21, 2004 and (iii) service fee for IR and marketing activities, have not been included in the Korean Commercial Registration Office due to the different requirements of the share issuance between the US and Korean Commercial Laws. The number of outstanding shares and capital stock as of December 31, 2007 in SEC and in Korean Commercial Registration Office are as follows: (Korean Won (\) in thousands,)
Korean Commercial | ||||||
SEC | Registration Office | |||||
Number of outstanding shares | 35,004,156 shares | 19,421,182 shares | ||||
Capital Stock | \ | 3,500,4156 | \ | 1,942,118 |
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Related party transactions
There is no known relationship between any of the Directors and Officers of the Company with major clients or provider of essential products and technology.
In the event conflicts do arise the Company will attempt to resolve any such conflicts of interest in favor of the Company. The officers and directors of the Company are accountable to the Company and its shareholders as fiduciaries, which requires that such officers and directors exercise good faith and integrity in handling the Company’s affairs. A shareholder may be able to institute legal action on behalf of the Company or on behalf of that shareholder and all other similarly situated shareholders to recover damages or for other relief in cases of the resolution of conflicts in any manner prejudicial to the Company.
The transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries are disclosed in the Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
A. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION
See “Item 18- Financial Statements”
Legal Proceedings
On February 27, 2004, the Company received approval for a debt restructuring plan for a total of 4,697,927,000 Won from the Chooncheon District Court, Korea, whereby a group of creditors of the Company and a representative of the Company agreed to reschedule the payments on 4,697,927,000 Won of the Company’s debt. An application for the restructuring plan was subsequently filed with Chooncheon District Court and approved by the court on the same day.
Meridian America Medical Inc., a subsidiary of Meridian Co., Ltd. was served in October 2007 as a defendant in a lawsuit claiming trademark infringement and false advertising filed by Therapy Products, Inc. d/b/a Erchonia Medical to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Fact discovery has been ongoing and is scheduled to be completed June 30, 2008. We anticipate making summary judgment motions in October 2008 that we hope will result in a ruling that Erchonia’s claims will be dismissed. We are also scheduled for court-ordered mediation on July 1, 2008.
Dividend Policy
We intend to retain any earnings for use in our business. We do not intend to pay dividends on our shares for the foreseeable future. Dividends, if any, on the outstanding shares are recommended by the board of directors and must be approved at our annual general meeting of shareholders. This meeting is generally held in March each year, and the dividend in respect of the preceding year is generally paid shortly thereafter. The declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of the shareholders, and consequently, no assurance can be given to the amount of dividends per share or that any such dividends will be declared. Future cash dividends, if any, will also depend upon our future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors as may deem relevant. Loan agreements and contractual arrangements entered into by Meridian may also restrict distributions of dividends.
B. SIGNIFICANT CHANGES
On April 30, 2008, Meitian Co., Ltd., a subsidiary in Korea, closed down and discontinued its operations. The decision was made by management to concentrate the Company’s resources on growing overseas markets.
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING
A. OFFER AND LISTING DETAILS
Price History
The common shares of the Company began trading on the OTC Bulletin Board on February 13, 2002 under the symbol MRDAF. The following table sets forth the high and low sales of prices of our common shares on the OTC Bulletin Board for the periods indicated.
OTC Bulletin Board | ||
High (U.S.$) | Low (U.S.$) | |
Annual Highs and Lows | ||
2006 | 0.74 | 0.11 |
2005 | 0.48 | 0.2 |
2004 | 0.58 | 0.2 |
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2003 | 0.51 | 0.065 |
Quarterly Highs and Lows | ||
2007 | ||
Fourth Quarter | 1.45 | 1.15 |
Third Quarter | 1.54 | 0.83 |
Second Quarter | 0.87 | 0.7 |
First Quarter | 0.82 | 0.4 |
2006 | ||
Fourth Quarter | 0.74 | 0.35 |
Third Quarter | 0.55 | 0.11 |
Second Quarter | 0.31 | 0.17 |
First Quarter | 0.26 | 0.17 |
Monthly Highs and Lows | ||
2008 | ||
May | 1.15 | 0.72 |
April | 0.75 | 0.65 |
March | 0.99 | 0.6 |
February | 1.2 | 0.96 |
January | 1.35 | 1.10 |
2007 | ||
December | 1.32 | 1.15 |
The transfer of our common shares is managed by our transfer agent, Pacific Corporate Trust Company, 3rd Floor – 510 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 3B9 (Telephone: 604.689.9853; Facsimile: 604.689.8144) .
B. PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
Not applicable.
C. MARKETS
Our common shares are quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board (as they have been quoted since February 13, 2002). Our symbol is "MRDAF" and our CUSIP number is Y6020X 10 3.
D. SELLING SHAREHOLDERS
Not applicable.
E. DILUTION
Not applicable.
F. EXPENSES OF THE ISSUER
Not applicable.
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A. SHARE CAPITAL
Not applicable.
B. MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
The Company is authorized to issue 50,000,000 shares of common stock, each share of common stock having equal rights and preferences, including voting privileges. The Company is not authorized to issue shares of preferred stock. As of December 31, 2007 there were 35,004,156
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shares of the Company's stock issued and outstanding. The shares of common stock of the Company constitute equity interests in the Company entitling each shareholder to a pro rata share of cash distributions made to shareholders, including dividend payments. The holders of the Company's common stock are entitled to one vote for each share of record on all matters to be voted on by shareholders. There is no cumulative voting with respect to election of directors of the Company or any other matter, with the result that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voted for the election of those directors can elect all of the directors. The holders of the Company's common stock are entitled to receive dividends when, as and if declared by the Company's Board of Directors from funds legally available therefore; provided, however, that cash dividends are at the sole discretion of the Company's Board of Directors. In the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, the holders of common stock are entitled to share ratably in all assets remaining available for distribution to them after payment of liabilities of the Company and after provision has been made for each class of stock, if any, having preference in relation to the Company's common stock. Holders of the shares of the Company's common stock have no conversion, preemptive or other subscription rights, and there are no redemption provisions applicable to the Company's common stock. All of the outstanding shares of the Company's common stock are duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable.
Dividends
Dividends are distributed to shareholders in proportion to the number of shares of capital stock owned by each shareholder following approval by the shareholders at a general meeting of shareholders. Under the Commercial Code and the Company's Articles of Incorporation, the Company will pay, to the extent declared, full annual dividends on newly issued shares. The Company may declare dividends annually ("annual dividends") at the annual general meeting of shareholders which is held within three months after the end of the fiscal year. Shortly after the annual general meeting, the annual dividend is paid to the shareholders of record as of the end of the preceding fiscal year. Annual dividends may be distributed either in cash or in shares provided that shares must be distributed at par value and dividends in shares may not exceed one-half of the annual dividend. Under the Commercial Code and the Company's Articles of Incorporation, the Company does have an obligation to pay any annual dividend unclaimed for five years from the payment date. The Commercial Code provides that a company shall not pay an annual dividend unless it has set aside in its legal reserve an amount equal to at least one-tenth of the cash portion of such annual dividend or has a legal reserve of not less than one-half of its stated capital. The Commercial Code also provides that a company may pay an annual dividend out of the excess of its net assets over the sum of (i) its stated capital, (ii) the aggregate amount of its capital surplus reserve and legal reserve which have been accumulated up to the end of the relevant dividend period, and (iii) the legal reserve to be set aside in respect of such annual dividend. Such reserves are not available for payment of cash dividends but may be transferred to capital stock or used to reduce an accumulated deficit through a shareholder action.
Distribution of Free Shares
In addition to dividends in the form of shares to be paid out of retained or current earnings, the Commercial Code permits a company to distribute to is shareholders an amount transferred form the capital surplus or legal reserve to stated capital in the form of free shares. Such distribution must be made pro rata.
Preemptive Rights and Issuance of Additional Shares
The authorized but unissued shares may be issued at such times and, unless otherwise provided in the Commercial Code, upon such terms as the board of directors of a company may determine. The new shares must be offered on uniform terms to all shareholders who have preemptive rights and who are listed on the shareholders' register as of the record date. The Company's shareholders are entitled to subscribe for any newly issued shares in proportion to their existing shareholdings, provided that pursuant to the Articles of Incorporation, new share that are (i) issued by public offering in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Law of Korea, (ii) represented by depositary receipts, (iii) issued to foreigners in accordance with the Foreign Investment Promotion Law of Korea within 33% of the total number of shares outstanding, (iv) issued to the Company's employee stock ownership association up to 20% of the newly issued shares (to the extent the total number of shares so subscribed and held by th e members of the employee stock ownership association does not exceed 20% of the total number of shares), (v)issued outside Korea for listing on a foreign stock exchange or foreign securities market trading securities by means of an electronic or a quotation system, (vi) issued according to a stock option plan, (vii) issued to a domestic corporation having a strategic relationship with the Company in connection with the Company's management or technology of up to 5% of the total number of issued and outstanding shares after such issuance, (viii)issued as consideration for the acquisition of the stock or assets of another company up to less than 20% of the total number of issued and outstanding shares, or (ix) issued through general public offering in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Law of Korea may be issued pursuant to a resolution of the board of directors to persons other than existing shareholders. Under the Commercial Code, a company may vary, without shareholder approval, the terms of such preemptive rights for different classes of shares. Public notice of the preemptive rights to new shares and the transferability thereof must be given not less than two weeks (excluding the period during which the shareholders' register is closed) prior to the record date. The Company will notify the shareholders who are entitled to subscribe for newly issued shares of the deadline for subscription at least two weeks prior to such deadline. If a shareholder fails to subscribe on or before such deadline, such shareholder's preemptive rights will lapse. The board of directors may determine how to distribute shares in respect of which preemptive rights have not been exercised or where fractions of shares occur. If the Company adopts the New Articles of Incorporation newly issued shares can be issued pursuant to a resolution of the board of directors of the Company to persons other than existing shareholders of the Company under the following cases (i) the Company offers new shares or allows underwriters to underwrite new shares in accordance with Article 2 and Article 8 of the Securities Exchange Act of Korea;(ii) the Company issues new shares through a public offering by the resolution of the Board of Directors in accordance with Article 189-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of Korea; (iii) the Company issues new shares through exercises of stock options in accordance with Article 16-3 of the Venture Company Promotion Special Measures Act of Korea; (iv) the Company issues new shares for the purpose of listing or registration on or with a foreign securities exchange or market;(v) the Company issues new shares for foreign direct investments in accordance with the Foreign Investment Promotion Act as needed for business purposes, including
24
but not limited to improvement of the financial structure;(vi) the Company issues new shares to another company with which the Company forms or intends to form a business alliance relationship for the purpose of technology transfer; or (vii) the Company issues new shares for consideration for the acquisition of the shares or assets of another company or the assets of a person.
General Meeting of Shareholders
Under the Commercial Code, the ordinary general meeting of shareholders is held within three months after the end of each fiscal year and, subject to board resolution or court approval, an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders may be held as necessary or at the request of holders of an aggregate of 3% or more of the outstanding shares of a company or at the request of a company's statutory auditor or audit committee. Under the Commercial Code, written notices setting forth the date, place and agenda of the meeting must be given to shareholders at least two weeks prior to the date of the general meeting of shareholders. Currently, the Company uses The Korean Economic Daily for the purpose of providing public notices. Shareholders not on the shareholders' register as of the record date are not entitled to receive notice of the annual general meeting o f shareholders or attend or vote at such meeting. The agenda of the general meeting of shareholders is determined at the meeting of the board of directors. In addition, shareholders holding an aggregate of 3% or more of the outstanding shares may propose an agenda for the general meeting of shareholders. Such proposal should be made in writing at least six weeks prior to the meeting. The board of directors may decline such proposal if it is in violation of the relevant laws and regulations of the Company's Articles of Incorporation. The general meeting of shareholders is held at the Company's headquarters or, if necessary, may be held anywhere in the vicinity of the Company's headquarters.
Voting Rights
Holders of the Company's shares are entitled to one vote for each share, except that voting rights with respect to shares held by the Company and shares held by a corporate shareholder, more than one-tenth of whose outstanding capital stock is directly or indirectly owned by the Company, may not be exercised. Cumulative voting is precluded in the Company's Articles of Incorporation. Under the Commercial Code, for the purpose of electing the Company's statutory auditors, a shareholder holding more than 3% of the total shares may not exercise voting rights with respect to such shares in excess of such 3% limit. The Commercial Code also provides that in order to amend the Company's Articles of Incorporation (which is required for any change to the Company's authorized share capital) and for certain other instances, including removal of any of the Company's director and statutory auditor, dissolution, merger or consolidation, transfer of the whole or a significant part of the Company's business, acquisition of all of the business of any other company or issuance of new shares at a price lower than their par value, an approval from holders of at least two-thirds of those shares present or represented at such meeting is required, provided that such super-majority also represents at least one-third of the total issued and outstanding shares. A shareholder may exercise his voting by proxy given to any person. The proxy must present a document evidencing the power of attorney prior to the start of the general meeting of shareholders.
Registration of Shareholders and Record Date Pacific Corporate Trust Company of Vancouver BC Canada ("Pacific Corporate") is the Company's sole transfer agent. Pacific Corporate maintains the register of the Company's shareholders and register of transfers of registered shares traded. For the purpose of determining the holders of the Company's shares entitled to annual dividends, the register of shareholders is closed for a period following December 31 and ending on the close of the ordinary general shareholders' meeting for such fiscal year. The record date for annual dividends is December 31. Further, the Commercial Code and the Company's Articles of Incorporation permit the Company, upon at least two weeks' public notice, to set a record date and/or close the register of shareholders entitled to certain rights pertaining to the Company's shares. The trading of the Company's shares and the delivery of certificates in respect thereof may continue while the register of shareholders is closed.
Annual and Periodic Reports
At least one week prior to the annual general meeting of shareholders, the Company's annual report and audited non-consolidated financial statements must be made available for inspection at the Company's principal office and at all branch offices. Copies of annual reports, the audited consolidated financial statements and any resolutions adopted at the general meeting of shareholders will be available to the Company's shareholders. In addition, the Company will dispatch the copies of its financials and statements and business report to its shareholders at least two weeks prior to the date of the annual general meeting of shareholders.
Transfer of Shares
Under the Commercial Code, the transfer of shares is affected by delivery of share certificates but, in order to assert shareholders' rights against the Company, the transferee must have his name and address registered on the register of shareholders. For this purpose, shareholders are required to file their name, address and seal or specimen signature with the Company. Under the regulations of the Financial Supervisory Commission of Korea, non-resident shareholders may appoint a standing proxy and may not allow any person other than such standing proxy to exercise rights regarding the acquired shares or perform any task related thereto on his behalf, subject to certain exceptions. Under current Korean regulations, securities companies and banks in Korea (including licensed branches of non-Korean securities companies and banks), investment management companies in Korea, internationally recognized foreign custodians and the Korean Securities Depository are authorized to act as agents and provide related services.
Acquisition by the Company of Shares
The Company generally may not acquire its own shares except in certain limited circumstances, including, without limitation, a reduction in capital. Under the Commercial Code, except in case of a reduction in capital, any of the Company's own shares acquired by it must be sold or otherwise transferred to a third party within a reasonable time.
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Liquidation Rights
In the event of a liquidation of the Company remaining after payment of all debts, liquidation expenses and taxes will be distributed among shareholders in proportion to the number of the Company's shares held.
Inspection of Books and Records
Under the Commercial Code, any individual shareholder or shareholders having at least 3% of all outstanding shares (irrespective of voting or non-voting shares) of a Korean corporation may inspect books and records of the corporation.
C. MATERIAL CONTRACTS
Not applicable.
D. EXCHANGE CONTROLS
The Foreign Exchange Transaction Law of Korea and the Presidential Decree and regulations established thereunder (collectively the "Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws") regulate investment in Korean securities by non-residents and issuance of securities outside Korea by Korean companies. Under the Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws, non-residents may invest in Korean securities only to the extent specifically allowed by such laws or otherwise permitted by the Ministry of Finance and Economy. The Financial Supervisory Commission also has adopted, pursuant to the delegated authority under the Securities and Exchange Law of Korea, regulations that restrict investment by foreigners in Korean securities and regulate issuance of securities outside Korea by Korean companies. Under the Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws, if the Government deems that certain emergency circumstances are likely to occur, it may require certain investors to obtain prior approval for certain Capital Transactions as defined in the Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws from the relevant Korean authority or to deposit a certain portion of the investors' holdings in Korea. Such emergency circumstances include sudden fluctuations in interest rates or exchange rates, extreme difficulty in stabilizing the balance of payments or a substantial disturbance in the Korean financial and capital markets.
Government Reporting Requirements
In order for the Company to issue its shares outside of Korea, the Company is required to file a prior report of such issuance with the Ministry of Finance and Economy. No further approval from the Government is necessary fort he issuance of the Company's shares. Furthermore, prior to making an investment to 10% or more of the outstanding shares of a Korean company, foreign investors are generally required under the Foreign Investment Promotion Law to submit a report to a Korean bank pursuant to a delegation by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy. Subsequent sale by such investor of the shares will also require a prior report to such bank
Dividend to be declared in Won
The Company currently is not in the position to pay dividends on its shares for the foreseeable future. However, if the Company declares cash dividends, such dividends will be declared in Won. In order for the Company to pay such dividends outside Korea, such dividends will be converted into Dollars and remitted to the shareholders, subject to certain conditions. The Company will convert dividend amount in foreign currency and remit them to shareholders abroad. No governmental approval is required for foreign investors to receive dividends. However, in order for the Company to convert the Won amount in foreign currency and to remit such amount abroad, relevant documents must be submitted to the foreign exchange bank to verify (i) that the amount being paid conforms to the amount required to be paid and (ii) whether all necessary legal procedures have been completed.
E. TAXATION
KOREAN TAXATION
The following is a summary of the principal Korean tax consequences to owners of our shares that are non-resident individuals or non-Korean corporations without a permanent establishment in Korea to which the relevant income is attributable ("non-resident holders"). The statements regarding Korean tax laws set forth below are based on the laws in force and as interpreted by the Korean taxation authorities as of the date hereof. This summary is not exhaustive of all possible tax consideration which may apply to a particular investor and prospective investors are advised to satisfy themselves as to the overall tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our shares, including specifically the tax consequences under Korean law, the laws of the jurisdiction of which they are resident, and any tax treaty between Korea and their country of residence, by consulting their own tax advisors.
Taxation of Dividends
For the purposes of Korean taxation of distributions of profits either in cash or shares made on the Company's shares, a non-resident holder will be treated as the owner of the Company's shares. Dividends paid (whether in cash or in shares) to a non-resident holder are generally subject to withholding tax at a rate of 27.5% or such lower rate as is applicable under a treaty between Korean and such non-resident holder's country of tax residence. Such tax is required to be deducted from such dividends and only the net amount is paid to the non-resident holder of the Company's shares. Under the U.S. - Korea Tax Treaty, the maximum rate of withholding on dividends paid to United States residents eligible for treaty benefits and beneficial owners of such dividend generally is 15% (10% if the recipient of the dividends is a U.S. corporation and owned at least 10% of the outstanding shares of voting stock of the relevant Korean company during any part of its taxable year which precedes the date of payment of the dividend and during the whole of its prior taxable year {if any} and certain other conditions are satisfied) which does not include withholding of local tax. In addition, a local surtax will be included in the withholding, therefore the maximum rate of withholding
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is generally 16.5% . The aforementioned maximum rate on withholding of dividends does not apply if the United States resident has a permanent establishment in Korea and the shares to which the dividends are paid are connected with such permanent establishment.
Distribution of free shares representing a transfer of certain capital reserves or asset revaluation reserves into paid-in capital may be treated as dividends subject to Korean tax. However, stock splits, if any, will not be treated as dividends.
Taxation of Capital Gains
A non-resident holder will be subject to Korean taxation on capital gains realized on a sale of our shares unless the non-resident holder is eligible for the benefits of an applicable tax treaty exempting such capital tax. In addition, the capital gains realized from the transfer of shares listed on certain foreign stock exchanges (including the NASDAQ National Market), insofar as the transfer is completed through such stock exchange, are exempted from Korean income taxation by virtue of the Tax Exemption and Limitation Law. Under the U.S.-Korea tax treaty, capital gains realized by holders that are residents of the United States eligible for treaty benefits will not be subject to Korean taxation upon the disposition of our shares, with certain exceptions. In the absence of any applicable treaty or the exemption under the Tax Exemption and Limitation Law, a non-resident holder will generally be subject to Korean taxation on capital gains realized on a sale of our shares at the rate of the lesser of 27.5% of the gains or 11% of the gross sales proceeds until December 31, 2000 and the lesser of 26 7/8% of the gains and 10 3/4% of the gross sales proceeds thereafter. See "-Withholding of Taxes."
Application of the U.S.-Korea Tax Treaty Under the U.S.-Korea tax treaty, a resident of the United States means (i) a United States corporation and, (ii) any other person (except a corporation or any entity treated under United States law as a corporation) resident in the United States for purposes of its tax, but in the case of a person acting as partner or fiduciary only to the extent that the income derived by such person is subject to United States tax as the income of a resident. Further, the reduced Korean withholding tax rate on dividends and capital gains under the U.S.-Korea Tax Treaty would not be available if (a) the U.S. resident holders are certain investment or holding companies or (b) the dividends or capital gains derived by residents of the United States from our shares are effectively connected with the United States residents' permanent establishment in Korea or, in the case o f capital gains derived by an individual, (i) such United States resident maintains a fixed base in Korea for a period aggregating 183 days or more during the taxable year and our shares are effectively connected with such fixed base or (ii) such United States resident is present in Korea for 183 days or more during the taxable year.
Securities Transaction Tax
Under the Securities Transaction Tax Law of Korea, securities transaction tax to be imposed at the rate of 0.5% (this rate may be reduced to 0.3%, including other surtax, if traded through the Korea Stock Exchange or KOSDAQ) will not be imposed on the trading of shares through a foreign stock exchange on which the shares are listed. Although there has been no established precedent on the point of whether the NASDAQ National Market will be included in the definition of "foreign stock exchange" for the purpose of Securities Transaction Tax Law, it is likely that the securities transaction tax will not be imposed on the trading through the NASDAQ National Market. Further, securities transaction tax will not be applied if the sale is executed between non-residents without permanent establishments in Korea and the non-resident holder (together with our shares held by any entity which has a certain special relationship with such non-resident) did not own 10% or more of the total issued and outstanding shares at any time during the five years before the year within which the transfer occurs and the non-resident holder did not sell such shares through a securities broker in Korea.
Inheritance Tax and Gift Tax
Under Korean inheritance and gift tax laws, shares issued by Korean corporations are deemed located in Korea irrespective of where they are physically located or by whom they are owned. Therefore, Korean inheritance tax and gift tax are imposed with respect to our shares. The taxes are imposed currently at the rate of 10% to 50%, if the value of the relevant property is above a certain limit and vary according to the identity of the parties involved. At present, Korea has not entered into any tax treaty with respect to inheritance or gift tax.
Withholding of Taxes
Under Korean tax law, holders of our shares in the United States will generally be subject to Korean withholding taxes on the capital gains and dividend payments by us in respect of those shares, unless exempted by a relevant tax treaty or the Tax Exemption and Limitation Law. Failure to withhold Korean taxes may result in the imposition of the withholding tax itself and 10% penalty tax, and, if prosecuted, a criminal penalty of an imprisonment up to one year and/or a fine up to the tax amount, on the relevant withholding agent. We, as payer of dividends, will act as withholding agent for the collection of Korean tax on such dividend payment. The capital gains realized from the transfer of shares listed and traded on the NASDAQ National Market are exempt from Korean income taxation by virtue of the Tax Exemption and Limitation Law. Korean tax law provides that, in case of transfer of Korean shares, the Korean securities broker broking such transfer, or if there is no such securities broker, the purchaser is required to withhold the relevant Korean capital gains taxes.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAXATION
The following is a general discussion of the material United States federal income tax consequences of purchasing, owning, and disposing the common shares if you are a U.S. Holder (as defined below) and hold the common shares as capital assets for United States federal income tax purposes. This discussion does not address all of the tax consequences relating to the ownership of the common shares, and does not take into account U.S. Holders subject to special rules including:
- dealers in securities or currencies;
- financial institutions;
27
- tax-exempt entities;
- banks;
- life insurance companies;
- traders in securities that elect to mark-to-market their securities;
- persons that hold common shares as a part of a straddle or a hedging, or conversion transaction;
- persons liable for the alternative minimum tax;
- persons that actually or constructively owns 10% or more of our voting stock; or
- persons whose "functional currency" is not the U.S. dollar. This discussion is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, its legislative history, final, temporary, and proposed Treasury regulations, published rulings and court decisions, all as currently in effect. These laws are subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis. You are a "U.S. Holder" if you are:
- a citizen or resident of the United States;
- a corporation, partnership or other entity created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof;
- an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source;
- a trust:
- if a United States court can exercise primary supervision over the trust's administration and one or more United States persons are authorized to control all substantial decisions of the trust; or
- that has elected to be treated as a United States person under applicable Treasury regulations. This discussion addresses only United States federal income taxation.
F. DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENT
Not applicable.
G. STATEMENTS BY EXPERTS
Not applicable.
H. DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY
Not applicable
I. SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION
See Note 2 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market Risk Disclosure
Market risk generally represents the risk that losses may occur in the value of financial instruments as a result of movements in market rates of interest and foreign exchange. The Company's primary market risk exposures are fluctuations in exchange rates, interest rates and equity prices. The Company is exposed to foreign exchange risk related to export sales denominated in foreign currency. All of the Company's export sales are denominated in U.S. Dollars, regardless of the currencies of the countries/regions in which the purchasers are located. For the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company had an aggregate 2,266,093 thousand Won export sales, accounting for 87% of the Company's total revenues. The Company has no other significant foreign currency denominated revenue. As a result, changes in the foreign exchange rate between the Won and the Dollar may significantly affect the Company due to the effect of such changes on the amount of payment, denominated in Won, the Company receives from foreign purchasers on the export sales. As of December 31, 2007, all of the Company's liabilities are denominated in Won. Therefore, if the Won depreciates against the Dollar by 10% and all other variables are held constant from their levels for the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company estimates that the payment receivable from its overseas customers will decrease by approximately 226,609 thousand Won ($242,155) in 2007. The Company is exposed to interest rate risk due to significant amounts of short-term and long-term debt. Upward fluctuations in interest rates increase the cost of additional debt. However, as of December 31, 2007, the Company had no floating rate borrowings. Currently the Company does not use any derivatives or other financial instruments to mitigate these risks discussed above.
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
The Company currently has the default tax payment of 196,910 thousand Won ($210,419) to the federal tax office and the default interest payment of 487,388 thousand Won ($520,825).
28
Due to the recurring losses from operations, Meridian was not able to meet the repayment schedule. As of December 31, 2007, Meridian has not paid 650,757 thousand Won of principal and 487,388 thousand Won of accrued interest outstanding to financial institutions, and 940,123 thousand Won of accounts payable to various vendors.
The details of the debt restructuring of the Company, which is disclosed in Item 8. and Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements in this report, were reported in the form 6-K filed on March 28, 2004.
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Not applicable.
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
A. Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our management has evaluated, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Director, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, as of December 31, 2007. There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives. Based upon our evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Director concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms, and that it is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Director, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
B. Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, and under the supervision of, our principal executive, principal operating and principal financial officers, and effected by our board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of our financial statements would be prevented or detected. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Our management has completed an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007 based on criteria in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Based on this assessment, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2007.
C. Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Not applicable.
D. Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the year covered by this annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
29
The Company does not yet have an audit committee financial expert.
ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS
The Company does not have in place a written code of ethics that applies to its executive, financial or accounting officers or to persons performing similar functions. The Company is dependent upon its president to lead by example and has faith in his ability to do so. The Company does not plan to grant any waiver, including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the code of business conduct and ethics to any person.
ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
(a)Audit Fees: For the fiscal year 2006, the Company was charged 57,543,620 Won ($61,750) for professional services rendered by its auditors for the audit of the Company's annual financial statements or services normally provided in connection with statutory and regulatory filings for the fiscal year 2006.
(b)Audit-Related Fees During the last two fiscal years, the Company paid $nil for professional services rendered by the current or former auditors for audit-related services..
(c)Tax Fees During the last two fiscal years, the Company paid $nil for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.
(d)All Other Fees During the last two fiscal years, the Company paid $nil for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for services other than those described under (a) through (c).
(e) The Company's board of directors is currently acting as the audit committee. The board approves all of the services provided by the principal accountants.
(f)Percentage of work performed by persons other than the principal accountant's full-time, permanent employees: 0%
ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
Not Applicable.
ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
Not Applicable.
Part III
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company has responded to Item 18 in lieu of this item.
30
ITEM 18. FINACIAL STATEMENTS
Meridian Co., Ltd.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
Table of Contents
31
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Meridian Co., Ltd.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Meridian Co., Ltd., and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders’ deficiency, and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Meridian Co., Ltd. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the results of their operations and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company's significant operating losses and working capital deficit raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
/s/ Choi, Kim & Park LLP
Los Angeles, California
Certified Public Accountants
June 18, 2008
32
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Consolidated Balance Sheets |
As of December 31, 2007 and 2006 |
(in thousands of Korean Won (\)) |
2007 (in US$) | ||||||||||
(Note 4) | ||||||||||
A S S E T S | (unaudited) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Current assets : | ||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 3) | $ | 110,991 | \ | 103,865 | \ | 2,387 | ||||
Trade accounts receivable - less allowance for doubtful accounts | ||||||||||
of 534,484 (USD 571,152) in 2007 and 571,968 in 2006 (Notes 3 and 5) | 1,223,354 | 1,144,814 | 413,228 | |||||||
Short-term loans - less allowance for doubtful accounts | ||||||||||
of 218,485 (USD 233,474) in 2007 and 218,485 in 2006 | 10,686 | 10,000 | - | |||||||
Other accounts receivable - less allowance for doubtful accounts | ||||||||||
of 3,020 (USD 3,227) in 2007 and 3,020 in 2006 | 43,138 | 40,368 | 40,519 | |||||||
Inventories (Note 6) | 587,516 | 549,798 | 371,209 | |||||||
Other current assets | 25,532 | 23,893 | 21,337 | |||||||
Total current assets | 2,001,217 | 1,872,738 | 848,680 | |||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net (Notes 3 and 7) | 54,034 | 50,565 | 16,546 | |||||||
Investments and other assets : | ||||||||||
Investments (Note 8) | 30,900 | 28,917 | 27,316 | |||||||
Security deposits | 109,445 | 102,419 | 76,533 | |||||||
Patents and trademarks, net of amortization (Notes 3 and 9) | 806 | 754 | 943 | |||||||
Total investments and other assets | 141,151 | 132,090 | 104,792 | |||||||
TOTAL ASSETS | $ | 2,196,402 | \ | 2,055,393 | \ | 970,018 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements
33
(Continued) |
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Consolidated Balance Sheets |
As of December 31, 2007 and 2006 |
(in thousands of Korean Won (\)) |
2007 (in US$) | |||||||||
(Note 4) | |||||||||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' DEFICIENCY | (unaudited) | 2007 | 2006 | ||||||
Current liabilities | |||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 1,299,221 | \ | 1,215,811 | \ | 1,751,943 | |||
Current portion of long-term accounts payable (Note 2) | 1,004,619 | 940,123 | 1,278,761 | ||||||
Short-term borrowings (Note 10) | 207,961 | 194,610 | 330,216 | ||||||
Current portion of long-term borrowings (Note 11) | 1,390,803 | 1,301,514 | 650,757 | ||||||
Other current liabilities | 790,574 | 739,819 | 1,035,343 | ||||||
Deferred warranty revenue | 69,732 | 65,255 | 38,457 | ||||||
Total current liabilities | 4,762,910 | 4,457,132 | 5,085,477 | ||||||
Long-term accounts payable (Note 2) | 333,291 | 311,894 | 1,464 | ||||||
Long-term borrowings (Note 11) | 3,477,008 | 3,253,784 | 3,904,541 | ||||||
Accrued severence benefits (Note 12) | 126,011 | 117,921 | 78,111 | ||||||
Total liabilities | 8,699,220 | 8,140,731 | 9,069,593 | ||||||
Commitments (Note 13) | - | - | - | ||||||
Shareholders' deficiency (Notes 14 and 15) | |||||||||
Meridian Co. shareholders' equity | |||||||||
Common stock - par value 100 WON per share; 50 million shares authorized; | |||||||||
issued and outstanding 35,004 thousand shares and 31,394 thousand shares | 3,740,560 | 3,500,415 | 3,139,398 | ||||||
at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively | |||||||||
Additional paid-in capital | 6,614,323 | 6,189,683 | 3,929,900 | ||||||
Appropriation for business rationalization (Note 15) | 285,968 | 267,608 | 267,608 | ||||||
Accumulated deficit | (17,159,764 | ) | (16,058,106 | ) | (15,450,443 | ) | |||
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | 16,095 | 15,062 | 13,962 | ||||||
Noncontrolling interest | - | - | - | ||||||
Total shareholders' deficiency | (6,502,818 | ) | (6,085,338 | ) | (8,099,575 | ) | |||
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' DEFICIENCY | $ | 2,196,402 | \ | 2,055,393 | \ | 970,018 |
34
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Consolidated Statements of Operations |
For the Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 |
(in thousands of Korean Won (\), except per share amounts) |
2007 (in US$) | ||||||||||||
(Note 4) | ||||||||||||
(unaudited) | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||||
Sales (Notes 3 and 22) | $ | 2,783,224 | \ | 2,604,541 | \ | 1,526,828 | \ | 1,434,519 | ||||
Cost of sales | 875,634 | 819,418 | 591,819 | 1,099,194 | ||||||||
Gross profit | 1,907,590 | 1,785,123 | 935,009 | 335,325 | ||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses (Note 16) | 2,182,264 | 2,042,162 | 1,111,107 | 2,192,971 | ||||||||
Research and development expenses | 326,252 | 305,307 | 75,309 | 100,201 | ||||||||
Loss from operations | (600,926 | ) | (562,346 | ) | (251,407 | ) | (1,957,847 | ) | ||||
Other income (expense) | ||||||||||||
Interest income | 92 | 87 | 30 | 2,307 | ||||||||
Interest expense | (251,934 | ) | (235,760 | ) | (246,523 | ) | (806,908 | ) | ||||
Foreign transaction gain(loss), net | (11,140 | ) | (10,425 | ) | (9,029 | ) | 1,758 | |||||
Other, net | 214,556 | 200,781 | 171,922 | (621,667 | ) | |||||||
Total other expense | (48,426 | ) | (45,317 | ) | (83,600 | ) | (1,424,510 | ) | ||||
Minority interest in net loss of consolidated subsidiaries | - | - | 10,260 | 32,951 | ||||||||
Loss before income taxes | (649,352 | ) | (607,663 | ) | (324,747 | ) | (3,349,406 | ) | ||||
Income taxes (Note 17) | - | - | - | - | ||||||||
Net loss | $ | (649,352 | ) | \ | (607,663 | ) | \ | (324,747 | ) | \ | (3,349,406 | ) |
Net loss per common share (Note 19) | ||||||||||||
Basic and diluted | $ | -0.020 | \ | (19 | ) | \ | (10 | ) | \ | (106 | ) | |
Weighted average number of common shares | ||||||||||||
Basic and diluted | 32,553,528 | 32,553,528 | 31,393,984 | 31,603,847 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements
35
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders' Deficiency |
For the Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 |
(in thousands of Korean Won (\), except per share amounts) |
Accumulated | ||||||||||||||||||
Common Stock Issued | Additional | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Paid-in | Accumulated | Comprehensive | ||||||||||||||||
Shares | Amount | Capital | Deficit | Income (Loss) | Total | |||||||||||||
Balance at January 1, 2005 | 29,993,984 | \ | 2,999,398 | \ | 3,724,910 | \ | (11,463,996 | ) | \ | (2,034 | ) | \ | (4,741,722 | ) | ||||
Issuance of common shares | 2,400,000 | 240,000 | 243,936 | - | - | 483,936 | ||||||||||||
Return to treasury of shares of common stock | (1,000,000 | ) | (100,000 | ) | (70,656 | ) | - | - | (170,656 | ) | ||||||||
Capital transaction by an equity method investee | - | - | 31,710 | - | - | 31,710 | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | - | - | - | (3,349,406 | ) | - | (3,349,406 | ) | ||||||||||
Losses in excess of minority interests | - | - | - | (41,909 | ) | - | (41,909 | ) | ||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative translation adjustment | - | - | - | - | 4,376 | 4,376 | ||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2005 | 31,393,984 | \ | 3,139,398 | \ | 3,929,900 | \ | (14,855,311 | ) | \ | 2,342 | \ | (7,783,671 | ) | |||||
Net income (loss) | - | - | - | (324,747 | ) | - | (324,747 | ) | ||||||||||
Losses in excess of minority interests | - | - | - | (2,777 | ) | - | (2,777 | ) | ||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative translation adjustment | - | - | - | - | 11,620 | 11,620 | ||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2006 | 31,393,984 | \ | 3,139,398 | \ | 3,929,900 | \ | (15,182,835 | ) | \ | 13,962 | (8,099,575 | ) | ||||||
Issuance of common shares | 3,610,172 | 361,017 | 2,259,783 | - | - | 2,620,800 | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | - | - | - | (607,663 | ) | - | (607,663 | ) | ||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative translation adjustment | - | - | - | - | 1,100 | 1,100 | ||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2007 | 35,004,156 | \ | 3,500,415 | \ | 6,189,683 | \ | (15,790,498 | ) | \ | 15,062 | \ | (6,085,338 | ) | |||||
Balance at December 31, 2006 (in US$) (Note 4) | 31,393,984 | $ | 3,354,775 | $ | 4,199,509 | $ | (16,224,444 | ) | $ | 14,920 | $ | (8,655,240 | ) | |||||
Issuance of common shares | 3,610,172 | 385,785 | 2,414,814 | - | - | 2,800,599 | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | - | - | - | (649,352 | ) | - | (649,352 | ) | ||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative translation adjustment | - | - | - | - | 1,175 | 1,175 | ||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2007 | 35,004,156 | $ | 3,740,560 | $ | 6,614,323 | $ | (16,873,796 | ) | $ | 16,095 | $ | (6,502,818 | ) |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
36
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows |
For the Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 |
(in thousands of Korean Won (\)) |
2007 (in US$) | ||||||||||||
(Note 4) | ||||||||||||
(unaudited) | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES : | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | (649,352 | ) | \ | (607,663 | ) | \ | (324,747 | ) | \ | (3,349,406 | ) |
Adjustments to reconcile loss from operations to net cash used | ||||||||||||
for operating activities | ||||||||||||
Depreciation | 24,491 | 22,918 | 8,763 | 25,150 | ||||||||
Provision for severance benefits | 82,234 | 76,955 | 36,710 | 4,900 | ||||||||
Bad debt expenses, net (recovery income) | (42,437 | ) | (39,712 | ) | (201,352 | ) | 541,642 | |||||
Amortization of intangible assets | 202 | 189 | 263 | 263 | ||||||||
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment | 3,428 | 3,656 | - | 502,195 | ||||||||
Equity in loss(gain) of investee | 586 | 548 | 483 | (14,071 | ) | |||||||
Service fee paid with issuance of stock | - | - | - | 483,936 | ||||||||
Cancellation of service fee paid with issuance of stock | - | - | - | (170,656 | ) | |||||||
Other | 18,790 | 26,797 | 5,223 | (30,392 | ) | |||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities | ||||||||||||
Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable | (739,178 | ) | (691,723 | ) | (29,667 | ) | (179,412 | ) | ||||
Decrease (increase) in inventory | (180,994 | ) | (178,588 | ) | 117,246 | 207,540 | ||||||
Decrease (increase) in other current assets | (2,730 | ) | (2,554 | ) | (19,588 | ) | 186,865 | |||||
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable - trade | (92,100 | ) | (86,187 | ) | (40,701 | ) | 75,200 | |||||
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable - other | (480,814 | ) | (449,945 | ) | 307,420 | 72,520 | ||||||
Increase (decrease) in other current liabilities | 11,200 | 10,480 | (106,036 | ) | 756,994 | |||||||
Severance payments | (34,966 | ) | (32,722 | ) | - | (228,746 | ) | |||||
Other | (1,165 | ) | (1,539 | ) | 80,838 | 6,979 | ||||||
Sub-total | (1,433,453 | ) | (1,341,427 | ) | 159,602 | 2,240,907 | ||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities | (2,082,805 | ) | (1,949,090 | ) | (165,145 | ) | (1,108,499 | ) | ||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES : | ||||||||||||
Decrease in short-term loans | - | - | 145,500 | - | ||||||||
Decrease in long-term financial instruments | - | - | - | 41,084 | ||||||||
Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment | 10,892 | 10,193 | - | 946,751 | ||||||||
Increase in short-term loans | (10,686 | ) | (10,000 | ) | - | (144,046 | ) | |||||
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment | (75,119 | ) | (70,296 | ) | (1,505 | ) | (6,233 | ) | ||||
Changes in investments and other assets | (27,661 | ) | (25,885 | ) | (18,430 | ) | 86,050 | |||||
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (102,574 | ) | (95,988 | ) | 125,565 | 923,606 | ||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES : | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from issuance of common stocks | 2,800,599 | 2,620,800 | - | - | ||||||||
Proceeds from short-term borrowings | 524,630 | 490,950 | 30,000 | 196,000 | ||||||||
Repayment of short-term borrowings | (669,541 | ) | (626,556 | ) | (11,000 | ) | - | |||||
Repayment of long-term borrowings | (361,870 | ) | (338,638 | ) | - | (30,271 | ) | |||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 2,293,818 | 2,146,556 | 19,000 | 165,729 | ||||||||
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENT | 108,439 | 101,478 | (20,580 | ) | (19,164 | ) | ||||||
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR | 2,552 | 2,387 | 22,967 | 42,131 | ||||||||
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR | $ | 110,991 | \ | 103,865 | \ | 2,387 | \ | 22,967 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
37
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
Note 1. Nature of Operation
Meridian Co., Ltd. (“Meridian”), incorporated on April 19, 1994 under the laws of the Republic of Korea ("Korea"), and its subsidiaries (hereinafter collectively referred to as the “Company”), are in the business of developing, manufacturing and selling of integrated medical equipment in domestic (Korea) and overseas markets.
On March 4, 2002, Meridian acquired 100% ownership of Meridian America Medicals, Inc. located in the city of Irvine, California, USA to establish distribution post for the North American market. On December 13, 2004 and February 15, 2005, Meridian America Medicals, Inc. issued new common stock, of which the shares were entirely subscribed by a non-controlling shareholder, Meridian Medical, Inc. Consequently; the ownership by Meridian was diluted from 100% to 75.76% .
On September 29, 2005, Meridian acquired 100% ownership of Rapha & Health Co., Ltd. for \ 50 million in cash to systemize its sales process in domestic (Korea) market. On June 7, 2006, Rapha & Health Co., Ltd. changed its name to Meitian Co., Ltd. However, Meitian Co., Ltd. closed down in April 2008, so that Meridian could concentrate its resources on the overseas markets.
Note 2. Liquidity and Going Concern
The Company has experienced losses from continuing operations during the last three fiscal years and has an accumulated deficit of \ 16,058,106 as of December 31, 2007. Net cash used for continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2007 was \ 1,949,090. At December 31, 2007, working capital deficit was \ 2,584,394. As of December 31, 2007, the Company’s principal source of liquidity is \ 103,865 of cash and \ 1,195,182 of trade and other accounts receivable. Such conditions raise substantial doubt that the Company will be able to continue as a going concern. These operating results occurred while the Company continues to develop and commercialize new products. These factors have placed a significant strain on the financial resources of the Company. The ability of the Company to overcome these challenges depends on its ability to continue to generate higher revenue, and achieve positive cash flows from continuing operations, profitability and continued sources of debt and equity financing. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of the uncertainties.
On August 4, 2003, when Meridian suffered deteriorated liquidity, bank accounts of Meridian were suspended from the transactions such as check clearing and direct deposits. In addition, on February 27, 2004, Chooncheon District Court in Korea approved the Company’s debt restructuring plan (or composition) for the total debt of \ 4,697,927, which constituted approximately 68% of the total outstanding borrowings and payables of Meridian at that time. The creditors who have agreed to the debt restructuring include the following:
Account | Creditor | Amount | ||||
Borrowings | Woori Bank | \ | 391,787 | |||
SMI ABS Specialty Co., Ltd. | 1,000,000 | |||||
Rainbow Specialty Securitization Co., Ltd. | 500,000 | |||||
Korea Technology Credit Guarantee Fund | 1,151,884 | |||||
Small Business Corporation | 300,000 | |||||
Korea Exchange Bank | 125,831 | |||||
Shinhan Bank | 41,612 | |||||
Subtotal – financial institutions | 3,511,114 | |||||
Accounts payable | Various vendors | 1,186,813 | ||||
Total | \ | 4,697,927 |
The original terms of the borrowings, which include secured \ 34,200 and unsecured \ 3,476,914 of debts to various financial institutions, were alleviated. The new terms require installment payments over 7 years through 2013 at the fixed interest rate of 3.5% per annum. All accrued and unpaid interests on the borrowings were forgiven.
New terms were obtained for the accounts payable due to various vendors, which require installment repayments over 3 years through 2007 at no interest.
In January 2005, Woori Bank exercised its security right on the apartment owned by Meridian. The proceeds of \ 42,837 from foreclosure were used to pay debt principal, interest and other direct expenses related to foreclosure.
38
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
Aside from the debt restructuring, Meridian had a borrowing from Chohung Bank (Chohung Bank has been merged into Shinhan Bank as of April 1, 2006), which was not included in the original restructuring plan, as the bank did not agreed to the terms. In December 2005, Chohung Bank exercised its security right on the land and building, which had been provided as collaterals by Meridian. The proceeds of \ 883,308 from the foreclosure, was paid to preemptive other creditors and Chochung Bank. Subsequent to the foreclosure, the original debt restructuring plan was modified to include the outstanding principal of \ 1,074,455 to Chohung Bank. The repayments under the modified plan are scheduled as follows:
2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Principal | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,757 | \ | 650,756 | \ | 4,555,298 | ||||||||
Interest | 159,435 | 136,659 | 113,883 | 91,106 | 68,329 | 45,553 | 22,777 | 637,742 | ||||||||||||||||
Total | \ | 810,192 | \ | 787,416 | \ | 764,640 | \ | 741,863 | \ | 719,086 | \ | 696,310 | \ | 673,533 | \ | 5,193,040 |
However, due to the recurring losses from operations, Meridian was not able to meet the repayment schedule. As of December 31, 2007, Meridian has not paid \ 650,757 of principal and \ 487,388 of accrued interest outstanding to financial institutions, and \ 940,123 of accounts payable to various vendors.
The status of the restructuring plan is reported to Chooncheon District Court, Korea every quarter. However, under the restructuring plan (or composition), the Court does not have authorities to dictate or supervise day-to-day financial activities, which is typical for court receivership. Therefore, any additional debt or equity financing could be made with no intervention from the Court.
Meridian believes that additional equity financing and continued increase in sales of the new product line-up, recently launched in the international markets will provide sufficient cash flow for it to continue as a going concern. During 2007, Meridian was able to attract new investors, increased its overseas revenue. Particularly, in 2007, Meridian attained the sales approvals of Lapex-BCS (LipoLaser) and DPA in EU and Canadian markets, in addition to Japan market, which will expedite its revenue growth.
Note 3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
The consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Significant accounting policies followed by the Company in the preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements are summarized below.
Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Meridian, the parent company, and its majority-owned subsidiary, Meridian America Medicals, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Meitian Co., Ltd. All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated. Non-controlling interest in consolidated financial statements represent the share of Meridian Medical Inc. who owns 24.24% of common stock of Meridian America Medicals, Inc.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognized pursuant to applicable accounting standards including Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) No. 101 (SAB 101), “Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements”, and SAB 104, Revenue Recognition. SAB 101 as amended and SAB 104 summarize certain points of the SEC staff’s views in applying generally accepted accounting principles to revenue recognition in financial statements and provide guidance on revenue recognition issues in the absence of authoritative literature addressing a specific arrangement or a specific industry. The Company’s revenue recognition policy complies with the requirements of SAB 101 and SAB 104.
Revenue from sales of products is recognized when the products are received and accepted by customers based on the FOB (free-on board) destination term. For medical equipment, the Company’s sales policy does not allow returns unless the products are defective. The customer’s acceptance is governed by the terms on the contract or arrangement, and any transactions not meeting the predetermined conditions are not recorded as revenue.
39
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying disclosures. The most significant estimates and assumptions relate to the allowance for doubtful accounts, inventory write-down due to decline in market value and deferred tax valuation allowance. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions that the Company may undertake in the future, actual results may be different from the estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include all cash balances and highly liquid investments, including term deposits and short-term bonds which are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and have an original maturity of three months or less. For the purposes of the statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid instruments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
There are \ 227 included in cash which are restricted in use for pledging to Seongdong District Tax Office as of December 31, 2007.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Allowance for doubtful accounts is estimated based on analyses of individual accounts and past experience of collection. When circumstances indicate that collection of an accounts receivable is doubtful, an allowance and a charge against earnings are recognized. When circumstances indicate that collection of an accounts receivable is not to be realized, the outstanding accounts receivable and the associated allowance are written off.
Concentrations of credit risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, short-term and long-term investments and accounts receivable. The Company places its cash primarily in deposit accounts with reputable financial institutions. The Company's accounts receivable are derived primarily from revenue earned from customers located in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Japan and Korea. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers' financial condition and, generally, requires no collaterals from its customers. The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based upon the expected collectability of accounts receivable. \ 992,089 of the Company’s accounts receivable was written off in the year ended December 31, 2005. There were no write offs in the years ended December 31, 2007, and 2006. In fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, sales to the Company's top 5 customers accounted for approximately 75%, 52% and 40% of net revenues, respectively. At December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the Company’s top 5 customers accounted for approximately 85%, 73% and 51% of trade accounts receivable, respectively.
Value - Added Taxes
Under the Korean Value-Added Tax ("VAT") law, the Company pays a 10% VAT on each purchase of VAT-taxable goods or services("input VAT") and collects VAT from its customers equal to 10% of sales ("output VAT"). The net amount is recorded as prepaid VAT, if the input VAT is greater than the output VAT, or VAT payable if the output VAT is greater than the input VAT.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated selling cost. The cost of inventories is determined on the average cost method.
Investment in Affiliate
Investee entities, in which the Company may exercise significant influence, but not control, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Whether the Company exercises significant influence with respect to an investee depends on an evaluation of several factors including, among others, representation on the entity’s board of directors and ownership level, generally 20% to 50% interest in the voting securities of the entity including voting rights associated with the Company’s holdings in common, preferred and other convertible instruments in the entity. Under the equity method of accounting, the Company’s share of the earnings or losses of these entities is included in the equity income (loss) section of the consolidated statements of operations.
A loss in value of an investment that is other than a temporary decline is recognized as a charge to current operations. Evidence of a loss in value might include, but would not necessarily be limited to, absence of an ability to recover the carrying amount of the investment or inability of the investee to sustain an earnings capacity that would justify the carrying amount of the investment.
40
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Significant additions or improvements extending useful lives of assets are capitalized. However, normal maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.
Depreciation is computed by the declining-balance method using rates based on useful lives of 4 years.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
The Company reviews for the impairment of long-lived assets, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss would be recognized when estimated undiscounted future net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets.
No impairment loss was recognized in 2007, 2006 and 2005.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets, which consist of patents and trademarks, are stated at cost less accumulated amortization computed using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives of 10 years.
Accrued Severance Benefits
Employees who have been with the Company for more than one year are entitled to lump-sum payments based on current rates of pay and length of service when they leave the Company. The Company's estimated liability under the plan which would be payable if all employees left on the balance sheet date is accrued in the accompanying balance sheets.
Through March 1999, under the National Pension Plan in Korea, the Company was required to transfer a certain portion of retirement allowances of employees to the National Pension Fund. The amount transferred will reduce the retirement and severance benefit amount to be payable to the employees and is accordingly reflected in the accompanying financial statements as a reduction from the accrued severance benefits liability. Since April 1999, however, under a new regulation, such transfers to the National Pension Fund became no longer required.
Shipping and Handling Costs
The Company includes shipping and handling costs in selling, general and administrative costs. Shipping and handling costs for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, amounted to \ 12,421, \ 6,483 and \ 12,180, respectively.
Research and Development Costs
Certain costs incurred in connection with the purchase of equipment and facilities used in the Company’s research and development activities are capitalized into property, plant and equipment, to the extent that they have alternative future uses. However, all other research and development costs are expensed as incurred. The Company has expensed \ 305,307, \ 75,309 and \ 100,201 during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
Advertising Costs
The Company expenses advertising expenses as they are incurred. Advertising expenses for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are \ 25,938, \ 35,671 and \ 40,266, respectively.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The estimated fair value of amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements have been determined using available market information and valuation methodologies, as applicable. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and all other current assets and liabilities approximate their fair value because of their short term maturities at December 31, 2007 and 2006, unless otherwise stated. The fair value of non-current assets and liabilities approximate their carrying value unless otherwise stated. The fair value of the Company's long-term debt is based on interest rates that would be available to the Company for the issuance of debt with similar terms.
Income Taxes
41
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment.
Other Comprehensive Income
Other comprehensive income refers to revenues, expenses, gains and losses that, under U.S GAAP are included in comprehensive income, but are excluded from net income as these amounts are recorded directly as an adjustment to shareholders’ deficiency. The Company’s other comprehensive income is primarily comprised of foreign currency translation gain (loss).
Translation of Foreign Currency
The Company applies FASB No. 52, Foreign Currency Translation, for translating foreign currency into Korean Won in its consolidation of the financial statements. Upon consolidation of the Company’s foreign subsidiary into the Company’s consolidated financial statements, any balances with the subsidiary denominated in the foreign currency are translated at the exchange rate at year end. The financial statements of Meridian America Medicals, Inc. (“MAMI”) have been translated based upon US Dollar as the functional currency. MAMI’s assets and liabilities were translated using the exchange rate at year end and income and expense items were translated at the average exchange rate for the year. The resulting translation adjustment was included in other comprehensive income (loss).
The Company used the exchange rates published by The Korea Financial Telecommunications & Clearings Institute.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing earnings (losses) attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the periods. Diluted EPS is computed using the weighted average number of common and redeemable common shares and dilutive common equivalent shares outstanding during the year using the treasury stock method for warrants.
Stock Option Plan
The Company previously applied the intrinsic value-based method of accounting prescribed by APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations, in accounting for its fixed stock option plan.. As permitted, the Company had previously elected to adopt provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation for options granted to non-employees who perform services for the Company and the disclosure-only provisions of options granted to employees.
In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 123R (revised 2004), Share-Based Payment (“SFAS 123R”), which replaces SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, (“SFAS 123”) and supersedes APB Opinion No. 25. SFAS 123R requires all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, to be recognized in the financial statements based on their fair values. Under SFAS 123R, the Company is required to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for stock options and similar awards based on the grant-date fair value of the award and recognize this cost in the income statement over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award. The pro forma disclosures previously permitted under SFAS 123 are no longer an alternative to financial statement recognition. This new rule is effective from the annual reporting period beginning after June 15, 2005. However, the Company did not recognize compensation cost related with stock options as the vesting period was completed up prior to 2004 for all outstanding options.
The fair value of stock options granted were estimated on the dates of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions: dividend yield and expected volatility of nil for all years, risk-free interest rate of 5.64% to 9% and expected lives of 4 years. The weighted average fair value per stock option granted during 2001 was \607 (See note 17).
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48 (FIN 48), “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes”, which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”. FIN 48 provides guidance on the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosures, and
42
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
transition. FIN 48 is effective for years beginning after December 15, 2006. The Company does not expect the adoption of FIN 48 will have a material impact on its financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 157, or SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. SFAS No. 157 provides enhanced guidance for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities. SFAS No. 157 also responds to investors’ requests for expanded information about the extent to which companies measure assets and liabilities at fair value, the information used to measure fair value and the effect of fair value measurements on earnings. SFAS No. 157 applies whenever other standards require (or permit) assets or liabilities to be measured at fair value. SFAS No. 157 does not expand the use of fair value in any new circumstances. SFAS No. 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” delays the effective date of Statement 157 for all nonrecurring fair value measurements of non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. We are currently evaluating whether the adoption of SFAS No. 157 will have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In February 2007, FASB, issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159, or SFAS 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities – Including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115.” SFAS 159 provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value. It requires a company to provide additional information that will help investors and other users of financial statements to more easily understand the effect of the company’s choice to use fair value on its earnings. It also requires a company to display the fair value of those assets and liabilities for which it has chosen to use fair value on the face of the balance sheet. SFAS 159 is effective as of the beginning of a company’s first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently evaluating whether the adoption of SFAS 159 will have a significant effect on our consolidated results of operations and financial position.
In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 160, or SFAS 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements,” to improves the relevance, comparability, and transparency of financial information provided to investors by requiring all entities to report noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries in the same way as required in the consolidated financial statements. Moreover, SFAS 160 eliminates the diversity that currently exists in accounting for transactions between an entity and a noncontrolling interest holder by requiring that they be treated as equity transactions. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Earlier adoption is prohibited. We are currently evaluating whether the adoption of SFAS 160 will have a significant effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Other recent accounting pronouncements issued by the FASB (including its Emerging Issues Task Force), the AICPA and the SEC did not or are not believed by management to have a material impact on our company’s present or future consolidated financial statements.
Note 4. United States Dollar Amounts
The Company operates primarily in Korea and its financial accounting records are maintained in Korean WON(\). These translations should not be construed as a representation that the Korean WON amounts shown could be converted, realized or settled in US dollars at this or any other rate. The US dollar amounts are provided herein as supplemental information solely for the convenience of the readers. Korean WON amounts are expressed in US dollars at the rate of \ 935.8: US$1, the US Federal Reserve Bank of New York noon buying exchange rate in effect on December 31, 2007. The US dollar amounts are unaudited and are not presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in either Korea or the United States of America.
Note 5. Accounts Receivable
Trade and other accounts receivable at December 31, 2007 and 2006 are as follows:
2007 | 2006 | |||||
Trade | \ | 1,679,298 | \ | 985,196 | ||
Others | 43,388 | 43,539 | ||||
1,722,686 | 1,028,735 | |||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts | (537,504 | ) | (574,988 | ) | ||
Accounts Receivable, net | \ | 1,185,182 | \ | 453,747 |
Note 6. Inventories
Inventories are comprised of the following as of December 31, 2007 and 2006:
43
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
2007 | 2006 | |||||
Merchandise | \ | 244,149 | \ | 311,195 | ||
Finished goods | 111,749 | 73,112 | ||||
Work-in-process | 196,579 | 116,598 | ||||
Raw material | 354,737 | 266,293 | ||||
907,214 | 767,198 | |||||
Reserves | (357,416 | ) | (395,989 | ) | ||
\ | 549,798 | \ | 371,209 |
Merchandise consists of medical equipment, medical supplies and electronic equipment purchased and held for resale by the Company. Finished goods are comprised principally of alternative medical equipments manufactured by the Company.
Note 7. Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are comprised of the following at December 31, 2007 and 2006:
2007 | 2006 | |||||
Machinery | \ | 54,296 | \ | 54,254 | ||
Vehicles | 44,171 | 52,219 | ||||
Tools | 47,900 | 47,900 | ||||
Furniture and fixtures | 835,721 | 797,304 | ||||
982,088 | 951,677 | |||||
Less accumulated depreciation | (931,523 | ) | (935,131 | ) | ||
Property, plant and equipment, net | \ | 50,565 | \ | 16,546 |
Depreciation expenses for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are \ 22,918, \ 8,763 and \ 25,150, respectively.
Note 8. Equity Method Investment
The Company accounts for its ownership interest in Beijing Meridian Medicals Equipment Co., Ltd. ("Beijing Meridian") under the equity method of accounting and adjusts its investment balance for its share of Beijing Meridian income and losses. Beijing Meridian’s primary business is wholesale and retail of medical equipment in China.
On November 10, 2001, the Company acquired 45% ownership of Beijing Meridian for \ 76,956 in cash. The changes of ownership percentage occurred in 2002 and 2003 when Beijing Meridian issued additional capital stocks. The ownership percentage was 25% in 2007 and 2006.
The recognized loss on this investment was \ 548 and \ 483 in 2007 and 2006, respectively. And the carrying amount of the investment was \ 28,917 and \ 27,316 as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.
Note 9. Patents and Trademarks
Patents and trademarks are comprised of the following at December 31, 2007 and 2006:
2007 | 2006 | |||||
Acquisition cost | \ | 5,466 | \ | 5,466 | ||
Less accumulated amortization | (4,712 | ) | (4,523 | ) | ||
Intangible assets, net | \ | 754 | \ | 943 |
Amortization expenses for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are \ 189, \ 263 and \ 263, respectively.
Note 10. Short-Term Borrowings
44
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
Short-term borrowings as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 are as follows:
Annual | |||||||||
Creditor | interest rate | 2007 | 2006 | ||||||
Medison Co., Ltd. | - | \ | - | \ | 1,216 | ||||
Other (third party individuals) | 5 ~ 8% | 194,610 | 329,000 | ||||||
\ | 194,610 | \ | 330,216 |
Note 11. Long-Term Borrowings
Long-term borrowings as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 are as follows:
Annual | ||||||||||||
Creditor | interest rate | Maturity Date | 2007 | 2006 | ||||||||
Chohung Bank (Note a) | 3.5 % | December 31, 2013 | \ | 1,074,455 | \ | 1,074,455 | ||||||
Korea Technology Credit | ||||||||||||
Guarantee Fund | 3.5 % | December 31, 2013 | 1,151,884 | 1,151,884 | ||||||||
Korea Exchange Bank | 3.5 % | December 31, 2013 | 125,831 | 125,831 | ||||||||
Woori Bank | 3.5 % | December 31, 2013 | 361,516 | 361,516 | ||||||||
Small Business | ||||||||||||
Corporation | 3.5 % | December 31, 2013 | 300,000 | 300,000 | ||||||||
Shinhan Bank | 3.5 % | December 31, 2013 | 41,612 | 41,612 | ||||||||
SMI ABS Specialty | ||||||||||||
Co., Ltd. (Note b) | 3.5 % | December 31, 2013 | 1,000,000 | 1,000,000 | ||||||||
Rainbow Specialty Sec | ||||||||||||
Co., Ltd. (Note b) | 3.5 % | December 31, 2013 | 500,000 | 500,000 | ||||||||
4,555,298 | 4,555,298 | |||||||||||
Less current portion | (1,301,514 | ) | (650,757 | ) | ||||||||
\ | 3,253,784 | \ | 3,904,541 |
(Note a) Chohung Bank has been merged into Shinhan Bank as of April 1, 2006.
(Note b) The Company had issued two series of non-guaranteed corporate bonds in 2001. As explained in Note 1, the Company entered into debt restructuring plan including debentures. As a result, two series of debentures were reclassified to long-term borrowings and the maturity date was extended to December 31, 2013 with a reduced interest rate of 3.5% per annum. Details of debentures as of December 31, 2007, are as follows:
Restructured | Original | ||||||||||||||
Amount | Interest rate | Maturity | Interest rate | Maturity | |||||||||||
1stdebentures | \ | 1,000,000 | 3.5% | December 31, 2013 | 12.15% | January 31, 2003 | |||||||||
2nddebentures | 500,000 | 3.5% | December 31, 2013 | 13.92% | August 14, 2004 | ||||||||||
\ | 1,500,000 |
The repayment schedule for long-term borrowings as of December 31, 2007 is as follows:
Year | Amount | ||
2008 | \ | 1,301,514 | |
2009 | 650,757 |
45
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
2010 | 650,757 | ||
2011 | 650,757 | ||
2012 | 650,757 | ||
2013 | 650,756 | ||
\ | 4,555,298 |
Note 12. Accrued Severance Benefits
Changes in accrued severance benefits for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 are summarized as follows:
2007 | 2006 | |||||
Accrued severance benefits at beginning of year | \ | 87,241 | \ | 54,594 | ||
Provision | 76,955 | 36,710 | ||||
Payments | (32,722 | ) | - | |||
Transfer to National Pension Fund | - | (4,063 | ) | |||
131,474 | 87,241 | |||||
Less current portion | (13,553 | ) | (9,130 | ) | ||
Balance at end of year | \ | 117,921 | \ | 78,111 |
Note 13. Commitments
The Company leases its manufacturing and office facilities from non-affiliates. Current lease will be expired in June 2008. Thereafter, the management expects to renew its lease agreement on an annual basis. Total rent expense were \154,217, \132,756 and \114,346 for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
Note 14. Shareholders’ Deficiency
The Company’s capital stock consists entirely of common stock with a par value of 100 Won and the number of authorized, issued and outstanding shares as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 are as follows:
2007 | 2006 | |||||
Authorized shares | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||
Issued and outstanding shares | 35,004,156 | 31,393,984 |
The Company received funds of US$530,000 from investors through an equity financing whereby, on June 8, 2004 the Company issued 3,312,500 shares of common stock ($ 0.16 per share). Share issue costs of $ 26,500 were paid in connection with the financing.
On May 2, 2005, the board of directors of the Company authorized the return to treasury of 1,000,000 shares of common stock issued to Edward Fitzpatrick (the “Shares”). The Shares had been issued to Mr. Fitzpatrick pursuant to a consulting agreement entered into between Fitzpatrick and the Company, on February 5th, 2004 (the “Agreement”). The Agreement was terminated by the Company due to lack of performance by Fitzpatrick of his obligations under the Agreement, and the Shares were subsequently returned to the Company’s treasury, effected by resolution of the Company’s Board of Directors.
On June 20, 2005, the Company issued 2,400,000 shares of common stock (par value 100 Won) in exchange for investor relations and marketing services with the fair value to the Company of \ 483,936. The shares issued were valued at the trading price of the company's common stock as of the date of authorization for the issuance.
In April 2007, the Company raised 517,000 Won from twenty non-U.S. investors for total 933,506 common shares at the price of 554 Won per share and warrants to purchase 133,358 common shares at 950 Won per share. The warrant exercise period commences on April 4, 2008, 1 year after issuance of the relevant common shares and warrants, and expires on October 4, 2008.
In June 2007, the Company raised US$350,000 from one non-U.S. investor for 700,000 common shares at the price of US$0.50 per share.
In December 2007, the Company raised 1,779,000 Won from forty nine non-U.S. investors for total 1,976,666 common shares at the price of 900 Won per share.
46
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
The Company has legally issued its shares and complied with the filing requirements pursuant to the SEC regulations. However, 13,885,159 common shares issued through S-8 registrations, (i) for acquisition of By George Holdings, (ii) debt-for-equity swap on October 21, 2004 and (iii) service fee for IR and marketing activities, have not been included in the Korean Commercial Registration Office due to the different requirements of the share issuance between the US and Korean Commercial Laws. The number of outstanding shares and capital stock as of December 31, 2007 in SEC and in Korean Commercial Registration Office are as follows:
Korean Commercial | ||||||
SEC | Registration Office | |||||
Number of outstanding shares | 35,004,156 shares | 19,421,182 shares | ||||
Capital Stock | \ | 3,500,4156 | \ | 1,942,118 |
However, regardless of registration in Korean Commercial Registration Office, every shareholder’s right and interest is not different.
Note 15. Appropriation for Business Rationalization
The Company has appropriated \ 267,608 of retained earnings for future investment and business rationalization. The appropriation was a legal requirement in Korea until 2001 when the applicable statute was repealed. There are presently no restrictions on the use of the appropriation for business rationalization.
Note 16. Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Details of selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are as follows:
2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||
Salaries | \ | 602,504 | \ | 456,982 | \ | 515,208 | |||
Provision for retirement and severance benefits | 58,776 | 19,280 | 28,683 | ||||||
Other employee benefits | 60,972 | 46,053 | 53,946 | ||||||
Travel | 2,825 | 2,410 | 7,664 | ||||||
Entertainment | 515 | 1,562 | 4,504 | ||||||
Advertising | 25,938 | 35,671 | 40,266 | ||||||
Communications | 22,875 | 17,401 | 16,847 | ||||||
Commissions and fees | 764,910 | 169,935 | 869,622 | ||||||
Insurance | 34,683 | 8,279 | 9,954 | ||||||
Transportation | 51,065 | 33,565 | 39,313 | ||||||
Depreciation | 14,901 | 3,696 | 8,740 | ||||||
Amortization | 187 | 263 | 263 | ||||||
Taxes and dues | 47,185 | 43,406 | 16,399 | ||||||
Bad debt expenses | - | - | 360,003 | ||||||
Rents | 154,217 | 132,756 | 114,346 | ||||||
Miscellaneous | 200,609 | 139,848 | 107,213 | ||||||
\ | 2,042,162 | \ | 1,111,107 | \ | 2,192,971 |
Note 17. Income Taxes
Income (loss) before income taxes and tax provision for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 comprises of the followings:
2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | \ | (-) 607,663 | \ | (-) 324,747 | \ | (-) 3,349,406 | |||
Income taxes – Current | - | - | - | ||||||
Income taxes – Deferred | - | - | - | ||||||
Total income taxes | \ | - | \ | - | \ | - |
47
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
The Company is subject to corporate income tax and resident surtax normally at an aggregate rate of 14.3% on taxable income up to \ 100,000 and 27.5% on taxable income over that amount. However, there were no income taxes-current because the Company had net operating losses for income tax purposes for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005.
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 are as follows:
2007 | 2006 | |||||
Temporary differences | \ | 152,146 | \ | 390,459 | ||
Tax credit carry forwards | 31,991 | 80,062 | ||||
Net operating loss carry forwards for tax purpose | 3,618,469 | 3,219,653 | ||||
Total deferred income tax assets | 3,802,606 | 3,690,174 | ||||
Less valuation allowance | (3,802,606 | ) | (3,690,174 | ) | ||
Net deferred income tax assets | \ | - | \ | - |
As of December 31, 2007, the Company has \ 13,158,069 of net operating loss carryforwards for income tax purposes, tax credit carryforwards and accumulated deductible temporary differences. Realization of the future tax benefits related to the deferred tax asset is dependent on many factors, including the Company’s ability to generate taxable income within the period during which the temporary differences reverse, the outlook for the Korean economic environment and the overall future industry outlook. Management periodically considers these factors in reaching its conclusion and has determined that valuation allowance was required as of December 31, 2007 and 2006. Therefore, the management concluded that 100% of valuation allowance is recorded in the Company’s financial statements based on the remote possibility to generate future taxable income within the period during which the all temporary differences reverse.
Note 18. Stock Options
Under the Company's Articles of Incorporation, the Company's Board of Directors may grant stock options to officers and key employees (the “Stock Option Plan”). The maximum aggregate number of shares available for issuance under the Stock Option Plan may not exceed 50% of the total number of shares outstanding. Stock options may not be granted to all officers and employees at the same time. Any single officer or employee may not be granted stock options for shares exceeding 10% of shares issued and outstanding.
Stock options granted under the Stock Option Plan will have a minimum exercise price equal to the arithmetic mean of (i) the weighted average of the daily market prices for the two-month period prior to the date of grant, (ii) the weighted average of the daily market prices for the one-month period prior to such date, and (iii) the weighted average of the daily market prices for the one-week period prior to such date. When new shares are issued upon the exercise of the stock options, the option exercise price shall not be less than the greater of the market price of shares valued as of the date of the grant or the par value of the shares concerned.
Details of stock option rights granted by the Company as of December 31, 2007, are presented below (in Korean Won):
Grant | Options | Type of | Exercise | Fair | Service | Exercisable | ||||||||||||
Date | Outstanding | Stock Option | Price | Value | Period | Period | ||||||||||||
March 19, 2001 | 147,875 | Issuance of Common stock | \ | 340 | \ | 607 | March, 2001 to February, 2004 | March, 2004 to February, 2008 |
Note 19. Loss Per Share
Loss per share is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the year.
Diluted loss per share is computed in a manner consistent with that of basic loss per share while giving effect to all potentially dilutive common shares that were outstanding during the period. The Company has potentially dilutive common shares as of December 31, 2007, 2005 and 2004, however there were no dilutive effects as of December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, applying the treasury stock method.
48
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
Note 20. Related Party Transactions
Significant account balance with related company as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 are summarized as follows:
Related party | Nature of Relationship | Account balance | 2007 | 2006 | ||||||||
Meridian Medical, Inc. | MAMI’s minority shareholder | Account Receivables | \ | 968,838 | \ | 299,495 |
Significant transactions with related company for the year ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are summarized as follows:
Related party | Transactions | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | ||||||||
Meridian Medical, Inc. | Sales | 676,137 | 327,265 | 451,301 | ||||||||
Service fees | 124,736 | - | - | |||||||||
\ | 800,873 | \ | 327,265 | \ | 451,301 |
In June 2004, the Company entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with MMI. Under the agreement, MMI was entitled to an exclusive distribution right in North American Market. On April 1, 2007, the Company entered into service agreement with Meridian Medical, Inc ("MMI"). Based on that agreement, MMI carries out sales, marketing and admin support service on behalf of the Company in US market.
Note 21. Statement of Cash Flows
(a) Transactions not involving cash
Significant non-cash investing and financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2007 are summarized as follows:
Long-term borrowings transferred to current portion of long-term borrowings | \ | 650,757 | |
Accrued severance benefits transferred to other current liability | 4,423 |
(b) Interest paid
Interest paid in cash for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are as follows:
2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||
\ | \ | 155,137 | \ | 105,296 | \ | 649,382 |
Note 22. Segment Information
In 2007, the Company operated in one industry segment, the development and manufacturing of alternative medical equipments. The Company's identifiable assets are located in one geographic area, the Republic of Korea (also known as South Korea). Sales revenue is attributable to geographic locations based on the location of the customer, as follows:
2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||
Export | |||||||||
U.S.A. | \ | 779,307 | \ | 470,532 | \ | 576,699 | |||
Asia | 1,109,121 | 71,092 | 26,304 | ||||||
Europe | 266,629 | - | 7,100 | ||||||
Other | 111,036 | 56,372 | - | ||||||
2,266,093 | 597,996 | 610,103 | |||||||
Domestic Sales | 338,448 | 928,832 | 824,416 |
49
Meridian Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
(Korean Won (\) in thousands) |
2007 | 2006 | 2005 | |||||||
\ | 2,604,541 | \ | 1,526,828 | \ | 1,434,519 |
Note 23. Subsequent Event
On April 30, 2008, Meitian Co., Ltd., a subsidiary in Korea, closed down and discontinued its operations. The decision was made by management to shift the Company’s resources to growing overseas markets from domestic market.
50
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS
Exhibit | |
12.1 | Section 302 Certification of the CEO |
12.2 | Section 302 Certification |
13.1 | Section 906 Certification of the CEO |
13.2 | Section 906 Certification |
51
SIGNATURES
The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.
By:/s/Hyeon Seong Myeong | |
Name: Myeong, Hyeon Seong | |
Title: President, CEO, Director | |
Date: June 30, 2008 |
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