Our product cost of revenues consists primarily of costs of materials, manufacturing services and overhead, warehousing, testing and royalties paid primarily to the Office of the Chief Scientist of the Israeli Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor. Our services cost of revenues consist primarily of salaries and related personnel costs for our customer support staff as well as the royalty payments mentioned above. We expect cost of revenues to increase as a result of the increase in our product and service revenues, the increased sales of our higher end products, primarily consisting of our Service Gateway – Omega Series and sale of extended service suites to large scale customers that will require additional personnel hiring and other expenditures. As a result, our gross margins as a percentage of revenues may decrease.
Stock-based compensation. We have granted options to purchase our ordinary shares to our employees and consultants at prices below the fair market value of the underlying ordinary shares on the grant date. These options were considered compensatory because the deemed fair market value of the underlying ordinary shares was greater than the exercise prices determined by our board of directors on the option grant date. The determination of the fair market value of the underlying ordinary shares prior to our initial public offering involved subjective judgment, third party valuations and the consideration by our board of directors of a variety of factors. Because there was no public market for our ordinary shares prior to our initial public offering, the amount of the compensatory charge was not based on an objective measure, such as the trading price of our ordinary shares. As of January 1, 2006, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R) “Share Based Payment,” or SFAS No. 123(R), which requires us to expense the fair value of employee stock options. We adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), using the modified prospective method for grants that were measured using the fair value method and adopted SFAS No. 123(R) using the prospective-transition method for grants that were measured using the Minimum Value method in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” or SFAS No. 123, for either recognition or pro forma disclosures. The fair value of stock-based awards granted after January 1, 2006, was estimated using the binominal model.
In connection with the grant of options, we recorded total stock-based compensation expense of $305,000 in 2005, $1.4 million in 2006 and $1.4 million in 2007. In 2007, $48,000, $230,000, $340,000 and $743,000 of our stock-based compensation expense resulted from cost of revenue, research and development expenses, sales and marketing expenses and general and administrative expenses, respectively, based on the division in which the recipient of the option grant was employed. As of December 31, 2007, we had an aggregate of $4.9 million of deferred unrecognized stock-based compensation remaining to be recognized. We estimate that this deferred unrecognized stock-based compensation balance will be amortized as follows: $1.9 million in 2008, $1.8 million in 2009 and $1.2 million in 2010 and thereafter.
Financial income (expenses), net
Financial income (expenses), net consists primarily of interest earned on our cash balances and other financial investments, foreign currency exchange gains or losses, devaluation of marketable securities and bank fees.
As of December 31, 2007, we had $40.3 million of principal invested in Auction-Rate Securities, or ARS, which were rated AAA and AA at the time of purchase. Due to the continued deterioration of, and uncertainties in, the credit and capital markets that began in the second half of 2007, our ARS have experienced multiple failed auctions due to a lack of liquidity in the market. A few of our ARS have had their credit rating downgraded. To date, our ARS have paid interest in accordance with their stated terms. Based on valuation reports received from investment banks, we have recorded an impairment charge of $4.9 million to financial and other expenses, net, in our statement of operations with respect to devaluation, which is considered “other than temporary.” In addition, all of our ARS have been classified as long term assets. If uncertainties in the credit and capital markets continue, these markets deteriorate further or we experience any ratings downgrades on any ongoing investments in our portfolio, including of ARS, we may incur additional impairments to our investment portfolio and record further impairment charges to our financial and other expenses, net, in our statement of operations.
34
In addition, the financial and other income (expenses), net, may fluctuate due to foreign currency exchange gains or losses. See also paragraph “ITEM 11: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk – Foreign Currency Exchange Risk.”
Tax Reform
On January 1, 2003, a comprehensive tax reform took effect in Israel. Pursuant to the reform, resident companies are subject to Israeli tax on income accrued or derived in Israel or abroad. In addition, the concept of controlled foreign corporation, or CFC, was introduced according to which an Israeli company may become subject to Israeli taxes on certain income of a non-Israeli subsidiary if, among other things, the subsidiary’s primary source of income is passive income (such as interest, dividends, royalties, rental income or capital gains).
Our facilities in Hod-Hasharon, Israel have been granted Approved Enterprise status under the Investment Law and enjoy certain tax benefits. We expect to utilize these tax benefits after we utilize our net operating loss carry forwards. As of December 31, 2007, our net operating loss carry forwards for Israeli tax purposes amounted to approximately $38 million. Income derived from other sources, other than the “Approved Enterprise,” during the benefit period will be subject to tax at the regular corporate tax rate. For more information about the tax benefits available to us as an Approved Enterprise see “ITEM 10: Additional Information—Taxation and Government Programs—Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959.”
Government Grants
Our research and development efforts have been financed, in part, through grants from the Office of the Chief Scientist under our approved plans in accordance with the Israeli Law for Encouragement of Research and Development in the Industry, 1984, or the Research and Development Law. Through December 31, 2007, we had applied and received approval for grants totaling $13.6 million from the Office of the Chief Scientist, of which $4.1 million is attributed to NetReality products. Under Israeli law and the approved plans, royalties on the revenues derived from sales of all of our products are payable to the Israeli government, generally at the rate of 3.0% during the first three years and 3.5% beginning with the fourth year, up to the amount of the received grants as adjusted for fluctuation in the U.S. dollar/shekel exchange rate. The amounts received after January 1, 1999 bear interest at twelve month LIBOR as at the beginning of the year in which a grant is approved. Our obligation to pay these royalties is contingent upon actual consolidated sales of our products and no payment is required if no sales are made. As of December 31, 2007, we had an outstanding contingent obligation to pay royalties in the amount of $5.9 million.
The government of Israel does not own proprietary rights in knowledge developed using its funding and there is no restriction related to such funding on the export of products manufactured using the know-how. The know-how is, however, subject to other legal restrictions, including the obligation to manufacture the product based on the know-how in Israel and to obtain the Office of the Chief Scientist’s consent to transfer the know-how to a third party, whether in or outside Israel. These restrictions may impair our ability to outsource manufacturing or enter into similar arrangements for those products or technologies and they continue to apply even after we have paid the full amount of royalties payable for the grants.
35
If the Office of the Chief Scientist consents to the manufacture of the products outside Israel, the regulations allow the Office of the Chief Scientist to require the payment of increased royalties, ranging from 120% to 300% of the amount of the grant plus interest, depending on the percentage of foreign manufacture. If the manufacturing is performed outside of Israel by us, the rate of royalties payable by us on revenues from the sale of products manufactured outside of Israel will increase by 1% over the regular rates. If the manufacturing, marketing and distribution is carried outside of Israel, the rate of royalties payable by us on those revenues will be calculated in accordance with the proportion between the grant received and the grant plus the amount of our own investments in research and development for such technology. The Research and Development Law further permits the Office of the Chief Scientist, among other things, to approve the transfer of manufacturing or manufacturing rights outside Israel in exchange for an import of certain manufacturing or manufacturing rights into Israel as a substitute, in lieu of the increased royalties.
The Research and Development Law provides that the consent of the Office of the Chief Scientist for the transfer outside of Israel of know-how derived out of an approved plan may only be granted under special circumstances and subject to fulfillment of certain conditions specified in the Research and Development Law as follows: (a) the grant recipient pays to the Office of the Chief Scientist an amount based on the scope of the support received, the royalties that were paid by the company, the amount of time that elapsed since the date on which the grants were received, and the sale price (according to certain formulas), except if the grantee receives from the transferee of the know-how an exclusive, irrevocable, perpetual unlimited license to fully utilize the know-how and all related rights; (b) the grant recipient receives know-how from a third party in exchange for its Office of the Chief Scientist funded know-how; or (c) such transfer of Office of the Chief Scientist funded know-how arises in connection with certain types of cooperation in research and development activities.
In September 2002, we acquired the assets of NetReality, an Israeli manufacturer, from a receiver pursuant to a court ruling. In connection with the NetReality acquisition, we assumed a commitment to pay royalties to the Office of the Chief Scientist up to the amount of the contingent liabilities derived from the grants that had been received by NetReality prior to the acquisition. Following the acquisition of NetReality, the Office of the Chief Scientist merged the NetReality approved plans with our other approved plans under a unified file. In April 2007, the Office of the Chief Scientist notified us of its decision, per our request, to separate the NetReality related approved plans from other approved plans. The Office of the Chief Scientist also approved the discontinuation of the NetReality related approved plans and as a result the balance of our outstanding contingent obligation to pay royalties was reduced by $4.7 million.
Factors Affecting Our Performance
Our business, financial position and results of operations, as well as the period-to-period comparability of our financial results, are significantly affected by a number of factors, some of which are beyond our control, including:
Size of end-customers and sales cycles. We have a global, diversified end-customer base consisting primarily of service providers and enterprises. We are making efforts to increase our sales to large service providers. The deployment of our products by small and midsize enterprises and service providers can be completed relatively quickly with a limited number of NetEnforcer and/or Service Gateway – Omega systems compared to the number required by large service providers. Large service providers take longer to plan the integration of DPI solutions into their existing networks and to set goals for the implementation of the technology. Sales to large service providers are therefore more complicated as they involve a relatively larger number of network elements and solutions, as well as NetEnforcer and/or Service Gateway – Omega systems. We are seeking to achieve significant customer wins in the large service provider market that will positively impact future performance. However, our performance is also influenced by sales cycles for our products, which typically fluctuate based upon the size and needs of end-customers that purchase our products. We expect that increased sales to large service providers of Service Gateway systems will result in longer sales cycles that will increase unpredictability regarding the timing of our sales and may cause our quarterly and annual operating results to fluctuate if a significant customer delays its purchasing decision and/or defers an order. Furthermore, longer sales cycles may result in delays from the time we increase our operating expenses and make investments in inventory, until the time that we generate revenue from related product sales.
36
Average selling prices. Our performance is affected by the selling price of our products. We price our products based on several factors, including manufacturing costs, the stage of the product’s life cycle, competition, technical complexity of the product, discounts given to channel partners in certain territories, customization and other special considerations in connection with larger projects. We typically are able to charge the highest price for a product when it is first introduced to the market. We expect that the average selling prices for our products will decrease over the product’s life cycle as our competitors introduce new products and DPI technology becomes more standardized. In order to maintain or increase our current price, we expect that we will need to enhance the functionality of our existing products by offering higher system speeds, and additional features, such as additional security functions, supporting additional applications and enhanced reporting tools. We also from time to time introduce enhanced products, typically higher end models that include new architecture and design and new capabilities, primarily to higher end models. Such enhanced products typically increase our average selling price. To further offset such declines, we sell maintenance and support programs on our products, and as our customer base and number of field installations grows our related service revenues are expected to increase.
Cost of revenues and cost reductions. Our cost of revenues as a percentage of total revenues was 23.6% for 2005, 22.2% for 2006 and 24.7% for 2007. Our products use off-the-shelf components and typically the prices of such components decline over time. However, the introduction and sale of new or enhanced products and services may result in an increase in our costs of revenues. We make a continuous effort to identify cheaper components of comparable performance and quality. We also seek improvements in engineering and manufacturing efficiency that will reduce costs. Since our cost of revenues also include royalties paid to the Office of the Chief Scientist, our cost of sales may be impacted positively or negatively by actions of the Israeli government changing the royalty rate. Our products incorporate features that require payment of royalties to third parties. In addition, new products, such as the Service Gateway platform, usually have higher costs during the initial introduction period. We generally expect such costs to decline as the product matures and sales volume increases. The growth of our customer base is usually coupled with increased service revenues and demand for extended service suites by our large services providers and Tier 1 carriers may require us to hire additional personnel and incur other expenditures. However, these additional expenses, handled efficiently, may be utilized to further support the growth of our customer base and increase service revenues.
37
Currency exposure.A majority of our revenues and a substantial portion of our expenses are denominated in U.S. dollars. However, a significant portion of the expenses associated with our global operations, including personnel and facilities related expenses, are incurred in currencies other than U.S. dollar. This is the case in primarily in Israel and to a lesser extent in certain countries in Europe and Asia. Consequently, a decrease in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to local currencies will increase the dollar cost of our operations in these countries. A relative decrease in the value of the U.S. dollar would be partially offset to the extent that we generate revenues in such currencies.
Over the past two years, the U.S. dollar has devaluated relative to the Israeli currency, the New Israeli Shekel, or the NIS. In 2007, the U.S. dollar depreciated against the NIS by 9.0%. During the first half of 2008, this devaluation trend was accelerated. This trend occurred as well in respect to the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar and other currencies. If this trend continues, our U.S. dollar-measured results of operations might be adversely affected.
In addition, since certain assets and liabilities on our balance sheet are denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollar, our financial and other income (expenses), net, may fluctuate due to revaluation and/or realization of these assets and liabilities in exchange rates other than those prevailing at the time in which these assets and/or liabilities were incurred.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates and judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty and actual results may differ. Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. Certain of our accounting policies are particularly important to the portrayal of our financial position and results of operations. In applying these critical accounting policies, our management uses its judgment to determine the appropriate assumptions to be used in making certain estimates. Those estimates are based on our historical experience, the terms of existing contracts, our observance of trends in our industry, information provided by our customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate. With respect to our policies on revenue recognition and warranty costs, our historical experience is based principally on our operations since we commenced selling our products in 1998. Our estimates are guided by observing the following critical accounting policies:
Revenue recognition. We recognize revenues from sales of our products in accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Statement of Position, or SOP, 97-2, “Software Revenue Recognition,” as modified by SOP 98-9, “Modification of SOP 97-2, Software Revenue Recognition, with Respect to Certain Transactions.” When an arrangement does not require significant production, modification or customization of software or does not contain services considered to be essential to the functionality of the software, revenue is recognized when the following four criteria are met: (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (ii) delivery has occurred; (iii) the fee is fixed and determinable; and (iv) collection is probable.
38
We exercise judgment and use estimates in connection with the determination of the amount of product software license and services revenues to be recognized in each accounting period. If collection is not considered probable, revenue is recognized when the fee is collected. We record provisions against revenue for estimated sales returns and sales incentives on product and service-related sales in the same period as the related revenue is recorded. We estimate the costs that may be incurred under the warranty arrangements and record a liability to cost of sales in the amount of such costs at the time product revenue is recognized. We also record a provision to operating expenses for bad debts resulting from customers’ inability to pay for the products or services they have received. These estimates are based on historical sales returns, sale incentives, warranty related expenses, and bad debt expense, analyses of credit memo data, and other known factors, such as bankruptcy. If the historical data we use to calculate these estimates do not accurately reflect actual or future returns, sales incentives, warranty related expenses or bad debts, adjustments to these reserves may be required that would increase or decrease revenue or net income.
Many of our product sales include multiple elements. Such elements typically include several or all of the following: hardware appliance, software licenses, hardware and software maintenance, technical support and training services. For multiple-element arrangements that do not involve significant modification or customization of the software and do not involve services that are considered essential to the functionality of the software, we use the residual method to allocate value to each element when sufficient specific objective evidence exists for all undelivered elements, but does not exist for the delivered element, typically the hardware appliance and software license. Under the residual method, each undelivered element is allocated value based on customer specific objective evidence of fair value for that element, as described above, and the remainder of the total arrangement fee is allocated to the delivered element(s). If sufficient customer specific objective evidence does not exist for all undelivered elements, revenue is deferred for the entire arrangement until all revenue recognition criteria are met for such undelivered elements.
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. Effective January 1, 2006, we adopted SFAS No. 123(R), which supersedes Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”. Generally, the approach in SFAS No. 123(R) is similar to the approach described in SFAS No. 123. However, SFAS No. 123(R) requires all equity-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, to be recognized in the statement of income based on their fair values. We elected the modified-prospective method and therefore prior periods were not restated. Under the modified-prospective method, compensation costs recognized in 2007 include also compensation costs for all share-based payments granted prior to, but not yet vested, as of December 31, 2007. In 2007, we recognized equity-based compensation expense under SFAS No. 123(R) in the amount of $1.4 million. When calculating this equity-based compensation expense we took into consideration awards that are ultimately expected to vest. Therefore, this expense has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. In our pro forma information required under SFAS No. 123 for the periods prior to fiscal 2006, we accounted for forfeitures as they occurred. We elected to apply the intrinsic value-based method prescribed in APB Opinion No. 25 for our equity-based compensation to employees and directors and provide the pro forma disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 123, as amended by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition and Disclosure, an amendment of SFAS No. 123.” As such, we computed and recorded compensation expense for grants whose terms were fixed with respect to the number of shares and option price only if the market price on the date of grant exceeded the exercise price of the stock option. The compensation cost for the fixed plans was recorded over the period the employee performs the service to which the stock compensation relates.
39
Inventories. We value our inventories at the lower of cost or estimated market value. Cost being determined on the basis of First In, First Out (“FIFO”) cost method for raw materials and out-of-pocket manufacturing costs. Indirect costs are allocated on average basis. We estimate market value based on our current pricing, market conditions and specific customer information. We write off inventory for slow-moving items or technological obsolescence. We also assess our inventories for obsolescence based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. Once inventory is written off, a new cost basis for these assets is established for future periods. Inventory write offs totaled $0.2 million in 2005, $0.3 million in 2006 and $0.2 million in 2007.
Marketable securities. We account for our investments in marketable securities using Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities,” or SFAS No. 115. Our management determines the appropriate classification of marketable securities at the time of purchase and evaluates such designation as of each balance sheet date. To date, all debt securities have been classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair market value. Fair value is determined based on observable market value quotes or, if market values are not available, using valuation models including assessments of counterparty credit worthiness, credit default risk, underlying security type of collaterals risk premium and overall capital market liquidity conditions. Declines in fair value that are considered other-than-temporary are charged to earnings and those that are considered temporary are reported, net of tax, as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders’ equity. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. As of December 31, 2007, we held marketable securities in U.S. dollars in the United States, which were classified as available for sale. The balance was composed of ARS and corporate bonds. The ARS and corporate bonds bear interest at rates ranging from 4.59% to 7.55% per annum.
Following SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 59, EITF 03-1 and FAS 115-1, management evaluated in each period whether declines in the market value of its securities are other than temporary. Where such declines are determined to be other than temporary, the related unrealized loss is recorded as a write-down included in financial expenses.
We recorded a pre-tax impairment charge relating to our investments in ARS of $4.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2007 and an additional pre-tax impairment charge of $2.2 million in the first quarter of 2008. See “ITEM 3: Key Information—Risk Factors—We have invested a portion of our cash in auction-rate securities, which subjects us to liquidity and investment risk. Due to recent uncertainties in the capital markets regarding auction-rate securities, we recorded impairment charges in the fourth quarter of 2007 and the first quarter of 2008, and, if the fair value of these investments were to decline further, we could be required to record further impairment charges related to these investments.”
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or the FASB, issued the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” or SFAS No. 157. This statement provides a single definition of fair value, a framework for measuring fair value, and expanded disclosures concerning fair value. Previously, different definitions of fair value were contained in various accounting pronouncements creating inconsistencies in measurement and disclosures. SFAS No. 157 applies under those previously issued pronouncements that prescribe fair value as the relevant measure of value, except SFAS No. 123(R) and related interpretations. The statements does not apply to accounting standards that require or permit measurement similar to fair value but are not intended to measure fair value. This pronouncement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. On February 12, 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157,” or FSP No. 157-2. FSP 157-2 amends SFAS No. 157 to delay the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (that is, at least annually). For items within its scope, FSP No. 157-2 defers the effective date of SFAS No. 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. We are currently evaluating the impact on our consolidated financial statements of adopting SFAS No. 157.
40
In February 2007, the FASB issued the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” or SFAS No. 159. This statement provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value. Generally accepted accounting principles have required different measurement attributes for different assets and liabilities that can create artificial volatility in earnings. The SFAS No. 159 objective is to reduce both complexity in accounting for financial instruments and the volatility in earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently. SFAS No. 159 is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007. The adoption of SFAS No. 159 will not have effect on our consolidated financial statements.
In December 2007, the FASB issued the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141R, “Business Combinations,” or SFAS No. 141R. SFAS No. 141R establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer of a business recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. The statement also provides guidance for recognizing and measuring the goodwill acquired in the business combination and determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statement to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS No. 141R is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Accordingly, any business combinations the Company executes will be recorded and disclosed following existing GAAP until January 1, 2009. We expect that SFAS No. 141R will have an impact on our consolidated financial statements when effective, but the nature and magnitude of the specific effects will depend upon the nature, terms and size of the acquisitions we consummate after the effective date. We are still assessing the impact of this standard on our future consolidated financial statements.
In December 2007, the SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 110, or SAB 110, which, effective January 1, 2008, amends and replaces SAB 107, Share-Based Payment. SAB 110 expresses the views of the SEC staff regarding the use of a “simplified” method in developing an estimate of expected term of “plain vanilla” share options in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R). Under the “simplified” method, the expected term is calculated as the midpoint between the vesting date and the end of the contractual term of the option. The use of the “simplified” method, which was first described in SAB 107, was scheduled to expire on December 31, 2007. SAB 110 extends the use of the “simplified” method for “plain vanilla” awards in certain situations. The SEC staff does not expect the “simplified” method to be used when sufficient information regarding exercise behavior, such as historical exercise data or exercise information from external sources, becomes available. We are currently assessing the potential impact that the adoption of SAB 110 could have on our consolidated financial statements.
41
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth our statements of operations as a percentage of revenues for the periods indicated:
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year ended December 31, | |
| | |
| |
| | | 2005 | | | 2006 | | | 2007 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Revenues: | | | | | | | | | | |
Products | | | 80.5 | % | | 84.2 | % | | 77.1 | % |
Services | | | 19.5 | | | 15.8 | | | 22.9 | |
Total revenues | | | 100.0 | | | 100.0 | | | 100.0 | |
Cost of revenues: | | | | | | | | | | |
Products | | | 19.5 | | | 18.8 | | | 20.3 | |
Services | | | 4.1 | | | 3.4 | | | 4.4 | |
Total cost of revenues | | | 23.6 | | | 22.2 | | | 24.7 | |
Gross profit | | | 76.4 | | | 77.8 | | | 75.3 | |
Operating expenses: | | | | | | | | | | |
Research and development, net | | | 25.8 | | | 22.1 | | | 28.9 | |
Sales and marketing | | | 51.7 | | | 45.3 | | | 55.6 | |
General and administrative | | | 10.4 | | | 10.2 | | | 17.2 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
Total operating expenses | | | 87.9 | | | 77.5 | | | 101.7 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
Operating income (loss) | | | (11.5 | ) | | 0.3 | | | (26.4 | ) |
Financing and other income (expenses), net | | | 0.2 | | | 1.9 | | | (2.6 | ) |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
Income (loss) before income tax benefit (expense) | | | (11.3 | ) | | 2.2 | | | (29.0 | ) |
Income tax benefit (expense) | | | 1.0 | | | 0.3 | | | 1.6 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
Net income (loss) | | | (10.3 | ) | | 1.8 | | | (30.6 | ) |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
Year Ended December 31, 2007 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2006
Revenues
Products. Product revenues decreased by $3.7 million, or 13%, to $25.1 million in 2007 from $28.8 million in 2006. The majority of our product revenue in 2007 was derived from sales of our NetEnforcer AC-1000 and AC-2500, and to a lesser extent, from the Service Gateway – Omega, which are targeted primarily at large and medium service providers. The decrease is primarily attributable to the completion in 2006 of a project that generated revenues of $6.9 million from a single system integrator.
Services. Service revenues increased by $2.0 million, or 37%, to $7.4 million in 2007 from $5.4 million in 2006. The increase in service revenues resulted primarily from a larger customer base and increased field installations covered by maintenance and support contracts.
42
Revenues from products, which comprised 77.1% of our total revenues in 2007, decreased by 7.1% compared to 2006, while the service revenues increased by a comparable amount.
Cost of revenues and gross margin
Products. Cost of product revenues increased by $0.2 million, or 3%, to $6.6 million in 2007 from $6.4 million in 2006. This increase resulted primarily from growth in salaries and overhead expenses. Product gross margin was 73.7% in 2007 compared to 77.6% in 2006. This decrease is primarily attributable to increased expenses attributable to salaries, third-party royalties and overhead expenses combined with higher sales volume of our high-end products, which require higher material and labor costs than other products.
Services. Service cost of revenues increased by $0.2 million, or 17%, to $1.4 million in 2007 from $1.2 million in 2006. This increase resulted primarily from an increase in post-sales support expenses caused by employing additional post-sale support engineers and salary increases. Services gross margin was 80.9% in 2007 compared to 78.4% in 2006.
Total gross margin was 75.3% in 2007 compared to 77.8% in 2006.
Operating expenses
Research and development. Gross research and development expenses increased by $2.5 million, or 26.9%, to $11.8 million in 2007 from $9.3 million in 2006. This increase was primarily attributed to an increase of salaries of approximately $1.4 million, which resulted principally from salary raises and the devaluation of the U.S. dollar relative to the NIS; an increase in depreciation of $0.3 million; and an increase in other expenses, principally consisted of rent and overhead, of approximately $0.8 million. The increase in gross research and development expenses is primarily driven by the development of our NetXplorer management application suite and the Service Gateway platform.
Research and development expenses, net of received and accrued grants from the Office of the Chief Scientist, increased by $1.9 million, or 24.6%, to $9.4 million in 2007 from $7.5 million in 2006. Grants totaled $2.4 million in 2007 compared to $1.8 million in 2006. The increase in grants received was due to a larger grant approved by the Office of the Chief Scientist and the devaluation of U.S. dollar relative to the NIS. Research and development expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 28.9% in 2007 from 22.1% in 2006.
Sales and marketing. Sales and marketing expenses increased by $2.6 million in 2007, or 16.9%, to $18.1 million in 2007 from $15.5 million in 2006. This increase resulted from growth in salaries and related expenses of $1.9 million, primarily related to hiring of additional sales, marketing and presale support personnel to provide broader geographical coverage and increased focus on the service provider market, an increase of $0.4 million in facilities-related and overhead expenses and an increase of $0.6 million in consulting, travel and other expenses, partially offset by a decrease of $0.3 million in amortization of stock-based compensation. Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 55.6% in 2007 from 45.3% in 2006.
43
General and administrative. General and administrative expenses increased by $2.1 million, or 61.2%, to $5.6 million in 2007 from $3.5 million in 2006. This increase is primarily attributable to: an increase of $1.1 million in professional services expenses primarily associated with corporate governance compliance under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and Nasdaq; director and officer liability insurance premiums and defending the class action law suits filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and certain of our directors and officers; an increase of $0.5 million in personnel expenses due to the hiring of additional personnel as well as salary increases; an increase of $0.3 million in other expenses mainly depreciation and travel; and an increase of $0.2 million in amortization of stock-based compensation.
General and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 17.2% in 2007 from 10.2% in 2006.
Financial and other income (expenses), net.Financial and other expenses, net were $845,000 in 2007 compared to a net income of $630,000 in 2006. The decrease in financial and other income (expenses), net is primarily due to the $4.9 million impairment charge against our investment in auction-rate securities, and was partially offset by an increase in interest received on cash balances and marketable securities of $3.3 million that is primarily attributable to the increase in cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities as a result of our initial public offering and decrease in interest and other expenses of $0.1 million.
Income tax expense. Income tax expense was $0.5 million in 2007 compared to income tax expense of $0.1 million in 2006. The increase in income tax expense is primarily attributable to a write-down of a withholding tax asset, which resulted from our assessment as to our ability to utilize them in the foreseeable future.
Year Ended December 31, 2006 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2005
Revenues
Products. Product revenues increased by $10.3 million, or 56%, to $28.8 million in 2006 from $18.5 million in 2005. The majority of our product revenue in 2006 was derived from sales of the NetEnforcer AC-1000 and AC-2500, which are targeted primarily at large and medium service providers. Product revenues for 2006 also include $6.9 million of sales to a single system integrator compared to $3.7 million of sales to the same system integrator in 2005.
Services. Service revenues increased by $0.9 million, or 20%, to $5.4 million in 2006 from $4.5 million in 2005. The increase in service revenues resulted primarily from a larger product base covered by maintenance and support contracts. The increase in service revenues was partially offset by a decrease of sales of maintenance and support programs related to NetReality’s legacy products in 2006 compared to 2005. Service revenues as a percentage of sales decreased in part due to sales to NTL, which, as of December 31, 2006, had not included maintenance and support contracts typically associated with our product sales.
Revenues from products, which comprised 84.2% of our total revenues in 2006, increased by 3.7% compared to 2005, while the balance of our revenues were attributable to service revenues.
44
Cost of revenues and gross margin
Products. Cost of product revenues increased by $1.9 million, or 44%, to $6.4 million in 2006 from $4.5 million in 2005. This increase resulted primarily from increased expenditure of $1.1 million on materials due to an increased number of units sold, and an increase of $0.4 million in royalty expense accrued or paid to the Office of the Chief Scientist. Product gross margin was 77.6% in 2006 compared to 75.8% in 2005. This increase resulted from higher priced modules accounting for a greater proportion of total sales.
Services. Service cost of revenues increased by $0.3 million, or 24%, to $1.2 million in 2006 from $0.9 million in 2005. This increase resulted from an increase of $0.2 million in post-sales support expenses as a result of employing additional post-sale support engineers and salary increases. Services gross margin was 78.4% in 2006 compared to 79.0% in 2005.
Total gross margin was 77.8% in 2006 compared to 76.4% in 2005.
Operating expenses
Research and development. Gross research and development expenses increased by $2.6 million, or 38.8%, to $9.3 million in 2006 from $6.7 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to the hiring of additional research and development staff as well as increased salaries. These increases were driven by the development of new products, such as our NetXplorer management application suite and the initial development of our Service Gateway platform.
Research and development expenses, net of received and accrued grants from the Office of the Chief Scientist, increased by $1.6 million, or 27.1%, to $7.5 million in 2006 from $5.9 million in 2005. Grants totaled $1.8 million in 2006 compared to $0.7 million in 2005. The increase in grants received was due to a larger grant approved by the Office of the Chief Scientist. Research and development expenses as a percentage of revenues decreased to 22.1% in 2006 from 25.8% in 2005.
Sales and marketing. Sales and marketing expenses increased by $3.6 million in 2006, or 30.0%, to $15.5 million in 2006 from $11.9 million in 2005. This increase resulted from an increase of $0.9 million due primarily to the hiring of additional sales, marketing and engineering personnel to provide broader geographical coverage and increased focus on the service provider market, an increase of $0.6 million in amortization of stock-based compensation and an increase of $0.3 million in expenses relating to cooperative advertising expenses, public relations and advertising. Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of revenues decreased to 45.3% in 2006 from 52% in 2005.
General and administrative. General and administrative expenses increased by $1.1 million, or 45.6%, to $3.5 million in 2006 from $2.4 million in 2005. This increase resulted from an increase of $0.2 million due primarily to the hiring of additional personnel as well as salary increases, an increase of $0.2 million in expenses related to professional services and increase of $0.5 million in amortization of stock-based compensation. General and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues were approximately 10% in 2006 maintaining similar level as in 2005.
45
Financial and other income (expenses), net.Financial and other income, net was $0.6 million in 2006 compared to $45,000 in 2005. The increase in financial and other income resulted from an increase of $0.6 million related to interest received on cash balances.
Income tax benefit (expense). Income tax expense was $111,000 in 2006 compared to income tax benefit of $218,000 in 2005. The income tax expense in 2006 was attributable to a reversal of deferred income tax asset and taxable income in the U.S. subsidiary.
| |
B. | Liquidity and Capital Resources |
From inception until consummation of our initial public offering we financed our operations primarily through private placements of our equity securities and, to a lesser extent, through borrowings from financial institutions. Sales of our equity securities including the consummation of our initial public offering resulted in net proceeds to us of approximately $112.7 million, net of issuance expenses.
As of December 31, 2007, we had $28.1 million in cash and cash equivalents and $42.6 million in marketable securities, of which $35.4 million were ARS. As of December 31, 2007, our working capital, which we calculate by subtracting our current liabilities from our current assets, was $37.2 million.
Based on our current business plan, we believe that our existing cash balances, will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs for payments of our recent acquisition of Esphion’s business and for working capital and capital expenditures for at least the next twelve months. In addition, we believe that the current lack of liquidity of the ARS will not have a material impact on our liquidity, cash flow or our ability to fund our operations for at least the next twelve months. If our estimates of revenues, expenses or capital or liquidity requirements change or are inaccurate and are insufficient to satisfy our liquidity requirements, we may seek to sell additional equity or arrange additional debt financing. In addition, we may seek to sell additional equity or arrange debt financing to give us financial flexibility to pursue attractive acquisition or investment opportunities that may arise in the future, although we currently do not have any specific acquisitions or investments planned.
Operating activities. Net cash used in operating activities in 2007 was $6.1 million. Net cash used in operating activities was primarily attributable to our net loss of $9.9 million and was partially offset by non-cash expenses that primarily consisted of a $4.9 million impairment charge against ARS, $1.5 million in depreciation and amortization and $1.4 million in stock-based compensation expenses. In addition, an increase of $1.9 million in trade receivables, an increase of $1.8 million in other receivables and prepaid expenses, which is primarily attributable to the increase of a receivable from the Office of Chief Scientist, an increase of $1.6 million in inventories balances, a decrease of $1.0 million in trade payables and changes in other balance sheet items, net of $0.4 million, partially offset by the increase of $1.0 million in employees and payroll accruals and an increase of $1.7 million in deferred revenues, caused a further increase of the net cash used in operating activities.
Net cash provided by the operating activities in 2006 was $1.3 million. This net cash was generated primarily from our net income of $0.6 million adjusted for non-cash expenses of $2.3 million and by an increase in trade and other accounts payable of $2.8 million, an increase of $1.1 million in deferred revenues, partially offset by an increase of $2.3 million in trade receivables, an increase of $2.1 million in inventories, and by an increase of $1.1 million in other receivables and prepaid expenses and other assets due to prepaid payments for the lease on our new offices in Hod-Hasharon, Israel. Net cash provided by operating activities in 2005 was $0.2 million and was generated primarily by an increase of $1.3 million in deferred revenues and an increase in trade and other accounts payable of $1.1 million, partially offset by our net loss of $2.4 million adjusted for non-cash expenses of $0.9 million.
46
Investing activities. Net cash provided by investing activities in 2007 was $25.6 million, primarily due to redemption and sale of available-for-sale marketable securities in the amount of $115.7 million, partially offset by investment in available-for-sale marketable securities in the amount of $87.1 million, and $3.0 million of capital investment primarily in research and development equipment. Net cash used in investing activities in 2006 was $73.9 million and consisted primarily of $104.1 million investments in available-for-sale marketable securities, partially offset by $32.5 million of redemption and sales of available-for-sale marketable securities, $2.1 million of capital investments primarily in research and development equipment and $0.3 million of investment in severance pay funds. Net cash used in investing activities in 2005 was $0.4 million and consisted primarily of $0.7 million of capital investments primarily in research and development equipment, $4.3 million investments in available-for-sale marketable securities, partially offset by $4.6 million of redemption and sales of available-for-sale marketable securities.
We expect that our capital expenditures will total approximately $2.0 million in 2008. We anticipate that these capital expenditures will be primarily related to further investments in research and development equipment of our next generation products and in leasehold improvements.
Financing activities. Net cash provided by financing activities in 2007 was $1.5 million and was generated primarily by the issuance of share capital through stock options and warrant exercise. Net cash provided by financing activities in 2006 was $76.1 million and was primarily attributable to the net funds raised in our initial public offering of $70.5 million, issuance of share capital prior to our initial public offering of $5.4 million and other issuances of share capital due to options and warrants exercise including related stock based compensation tax benefits of $0.2 million. Net cash used in financing activities in 2005 was $0.1 million resulting primarily from the repayment of $0.2 million of indebtedness partially offset by funds received from option exercises.
| |
C. | Research and Development, Patents and Licenses |
Our research and development activities take place in Israel and New Zealand. As of December 31, 2007, 89 of our employees were engaged primarily in research and development. We devote a significant amount of our resources towards research and development to introduce and continuously enhance products to support our growth strategy.
Our research and development efforts have benefited from royalty-bearing grants from the Office of the Chief Scientist. The State of Israel does not own any proprietary rights in technology developed with the Office of the Chief Scientist funding and there is no restriction related to the Office of the Chief Scientist on the export of products manufactured using technology developed with Office of the Chief Scientist funding. For a description of restrictions on the transfer of the technology and with respect to manufacturing rights, please see “ITEM 3: Key Information—Risk Factors—The government grants we have received for research and development expenditures restrict our ability to manufacture products and transfer technologies outside of Israel and require us to satisfy specified conditions. If we fail to comply with such restrictions or these conditions, we may be required to refund grants previously received together with interest and penalties, and may be subject to criminal charges.”
47
Total research and development expenses, before royalty bearing grants, were approximately $6.7 million, $9.3 million and $11.8 million in the years ended December 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively. Royalty bearing grants amounted to $0.7 million, $1.8 million and $2.4 million in 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively.
See “ITEM 5: Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” above.
| |
E. | Off Balance Sheet Arrangements |
We are not a party to any material off-balance sheet arrangements. In addition, we have no unconsolidated special purpose financing or partnership entities that are likely to create material contingent obligations.
| |
F. | Contractual and Other Commitments |
The following table of our material contractual and other obligations known to us as of December 31, 2007, summarizes the aggregate effect that these obligations are expected to have on our cash flows in the periods indicated. We currently estimate that we may be required to pay an aggregate of $0.5 to $0.8 million in earnout payments to be accrued in 2008.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Payments due by period | |
| |
| |
Contractual Obligations | | Total | | Less than 1 year | | 1– 3 years | | 3-5 years | | Over 5 years | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | (in thousands of U.S. dollars) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating leases — offices(1) | | $ | 2,737 | | $ | 645 | | $ | 1,424 | | $ | 668 | | $ | – | |
Operating leases — vehicles | | | 1,471 | | | 857 | | | 614 | | | – | | | – | |
Purchase obligations | | | 1,900 | | | 1,900 | | | – | | | – | | | – | |
Accrued severance pay(2) | | | 3,175 | | | – | | | – | | | – | | | 3,175 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Total | | $ | 9,283 | | $ | 3,402 | | $ | 2,038 | | $ | 668 | | $ | 3,175 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
(1) | Consists primarily of an operating lease for our facilities in Hod-Hasharon, Israel, as well as operating leases for facilities leased by our subsidiaries. |
(2) | Accrued severance pay relates to obligations to our Israeli employees as required under Israeli labor laws. These obligations are payable, among others, upon termination, retirement or death of the respective employee. |
48
ITEM 6: Directors, Senior Management and Employees
| |
A. | Directors and Senior Management |
Our directors and executive officers, their ages and positions as of June 15, 2008, are as follows:
| | | | |
Name | | Age | | Position |
| |
| |
|
| | | | |
Directors | | | | |
Yigal Jacoby | | 47 | | Chairman of the Board |
Rami Hadar | | 44 | | Director, Chief Executive Officer and President |
Yossi Sela(1) | | 56 | | Director |
Dr. Eyal Kishon(1)(2) | | 48 | | Director |
Shai Saul(1) | | 45 | | Director |
Nurit Benjamini(1)(2) | | 41 | | Director |
Steven D. Levy(2) | | 52 | | Director |
| | | | |
Executive Officers | | | | |
Amir Weinstein(3) | | 47 | | Executive Vice President — Products and Technology |
Anat Shenig | | 39 | | Vice President — Human Resources |
Andrei Elefant | | 34 | | Vice President — Product Management and Marketing |
Doron Arazi | | 44 | | Chief Financial Officer |
Elazar (Azi) Ronen | | 46 | | Executive Vice President — Corporate Development |
Eli Cohen | | 40 | | Vice President — International Sales |
Jay Klein | | 43 | | Vice President — Chief Technology Officer |
Pini Gvili | | 42 | | Vice President — Operations |
Ramy Moriah | | 52 | | Vice President — Customer Care and Information Technology |
Vin Costello | | 51 | | Vice President and General Manager — The Americas |
| |
(1) | Member of our compensation and nomination committee. |
(2) | Member of our audit committee. |
(3) | Mr. Weinstein has resigned his position to be effective as of September 1, 2008. |
Directors
Yigal Jacoby co-founded our company in 1996 and serves as Chairman of our board of directors. Prior to co-founding Allot, Mr. Jacoby served as General Manager of Bay Network’s Network Management Division in Santa Clara from 1996 to 1997. In 1992, he founded Armon Networking, a manufacturer of RMON-based network management solutions, which was sold to Bay Networks in 1996. He also held various engineering and marketing management positions at Tekelec, a manufacturer of Telecommunication monitoring and diagnostic equipment, including Director, OSI & LAN Products from 1989 to 1992 and Engineering Manager from 1987 to 1989. Mr. Jacoby has founded several startups in the communications field and served on their boards. Mr. Jacoby has a B.A., cum laude, in Computer Science from Technion — Israel Institute of Technology and an M.Sc. in Computer Science from University of Southern California.
Rami Hadar has served as our Chief Executive Officer and President since 2006 and is a member of our board of directors. Prior to joining us, Mr. Hadar founded CTP Systems, a developer of cordless telephony systems in 1989 and served as Chief Executive Officer until its acquisition by DSP Communications in 1995. Mr. Hadar continued with DSP Communication’s executive management team for two years, and thereafter, in 1999, the company was acquired by Intel. In 1997, Mr. Hadar co-founded Ensemble Communications, a pioneer in the broadband wireless space and the WiMax standard, where he served as Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing until 2002. Mr. Hadar also served as Chief Executive Officer of Native Networks from 2002 to 2005, which was successfully sold and integrated to Alcatel. Mr. Hadar holds a B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from Technion — Israel Institute of Technology.
49
Yossi Sela has served as a director since 1998. Mr. Sela is the Managing Partner of Gemini Israel Funds, a leading Venture Capital fund, which invests primarily in seed and early stage Israeli technology companies. In this capacity, Mr. Sela sits on the board of a number of Gemini portfolio companies, including Adimos Inc., Saifun Semiconductors Ltd., and IXI Mobile, Ltd. Mr. Sela’s past board positions include CommTouch Software Ltd., Precise Software Solutions Ltd. and Envara Inc. In 1995, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of Ornet Data Communication Technologies Ltd., which was a Gemini portfolio company. Mr. Sela led that company until its acquisition by Siemens AG in September 1995. From 1990 to 1992, Mr. Sela served as Vice President of Marketing at DSP Group, an American-Israeli company specializing in proprietary Digital Signal Processing for consumer and telecommunication applications. He later served as VP Marketing at DSP Communications, Inc., a spin-off of DSP Group. From 1985 to 1989, Mr. Sela worked at Daisy Systems Inc. where he was Director for CAD Development and PCB Marketing Manager for Europe. From 1974 to 1984, he served in the Israel Defense Forces and was responsible for the definition and development of systems for communication applications. Mr. Sela holds a B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from the Technion — Israel Institute of Technology and an M.B.A. from Tel Aviv University.
Dr. Eyal Kishon has served as a director since 1998. In 1996, Dr. Kishon co-founded Genesis Partners, an Israeli technology-driven venture capital fund, and currently serves as Founder and Managing Partner. From 1993 to 1996, Dr. Kishon served as the Associate Director of the Polaris Fund, now Pitango. Prior to that, Dr. Kishon served as Chief Technology Officer at Yozma Venture Capital from 1992 to 1993. From 1991 to 1992, he worked at the IBM Research Center, and from 1989 to 1991 he worked at the AT&T Bell Laboratories’ Robotics Research Department. Dr. Kishon also serves as a director of AudioCodes Ltd. (NASDAQ: AUDC) and Celtro Inc. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Robotics from the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University and a B.A. in Computer Science from the Technion — Israel Institute of Technology. Dr. Kishon has written a number of scientific publications and holds a patent for signature verification for interactive security systems.
Shai Saul has served as a director since 2000. Mr. Saul is currently Managing General Partner of Tamir Fishman Ventures. During 2001, he acted as interim-CEO for CopperGate Communications. From 1994 to 1999, Mr. Saul acted as Executive Vice President for Aladdin Knowledge Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ALDN), a leading provider of digital security solutions. From 1993 to 1994, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Ganot Ltd. Mr. Saul also serves as Chairman of the Board of CopperGate Communications and as member of the board of Lanoptics Ltd. (NASDAQ: LNOP). Mr. Saul holds an LL.B. from Tel Aviv University.
Nurit Benjamini has served as an outside director since 2007. Ms. Benjamini has served as the Chief Financial Officer of CopperGate Communications, a system-on-chip company that develops markets and sells chipsets for the home networking and MDU/MTU Broadband Access markets, since 2007. Previously, Ms. Benjamini served as the Chief Financial Officer of Compugen Ltd. (NASDAQ: CGEN) from 2000 to 2007. Prior to her position with Compugen Ltd., from 1998 to 2000, Ms. Benjamini served as the Chief Financial Officer of Phone-Or Ltd. Between 1993 and 1998, Ms. Benjamini served as the Chief Financial Officer of Aladdin Knowledge Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ALDN). Ms. Benjamini holds a B.A. in Economics and Business and an M.B.A. in Finance, both from Bar Ilan University, Israel.
50
Steven D. Levy has served as an outside director since 2007. Mr. Levy served as a Managing Director and Global Head of Communications Technology Research at Lehman Brothers from 1998 to 2005. Before joining Lehman Brothers, Mr. Levy was a Director of Telecommunications Research at Salomon Brothers from 1997 to 1998, Managing Director and Head of the Communications Research Team at Oppenheimer & Co. from 1994 to 1997 and a senior communications analyst at Hambrecht & Quist from 1986 to 1994. Mr. Levy has served as a director of PCTEL, a broadband wireless technology company since January 2006 and of Zhone Technologies, Inc., a U.S. provider of telecommunications equipment, since April 2006. Mr. Levy holds a B.Sc. in Materials Engineering and an M.B.A., both from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Executive Officers
Amir Weinstein joined our company in 2005 and has served as our Executive Vice President — Products and Technology since then. Prior to that, in 1999, Mr. Weinstein co-founded Business Layers, now Netegrity, a provisioning company, providing workflow and IT provisioning solutions to enterprises, and held the position of General Manager until 2004. Mr. Weinstein has held several other senior management positions, including Vice President of Engineering at Nortel Networks, a phone and data communication company from 1996 to 1999. Amir holds a B.Sc. in Computer Science and Mathematics from Bar Ilan University and M.Sc. in Computer Science from UCLA.
Anat Shenig joined our company in 2000 and has served as Vice President — Human Resources since 2007. Ms. Shenig is responsible for human resources recruiting, welfare policy and employees’ training. Prior to joining us, Ms. Shenig served as Human Resource Manager for Davidoff insurance company and as an organizational consultant for Aman Consulting. Ms. Shenig holds bachelor degrees in Psychology and Economics from Tel Aviv University and an M.B.A. in organizational behavior from Tel Aviv University.
Andrei Elefant joined our company in 2000 and has served as VP Product Management since 2007. Mr. Elefant assumed responsibility to our marketing activities in 2008. Mr. Elefant is responsible for product management, product marketing and strategic project management. Prior to joining us, Mr. Elefant served as officer in the Israeli air force. Mr. Elefant holds a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from the Technion — Israel Institute of Technology and an M.B.A. from Tel-Aviv University.
Doron Arazi has served as our Chief Financial Officer since 2007. Prior to joining us, Mr. Arazi held various financial positions at Verint Systems Ltd., one of the largest subsidiaries of Verint System Inc., an analytic software-based solutions provider. For the last three years, Mr. Arazi has served as Vice President Finance of Verint Systems Ltd. Mr. Arazi is a certified public accountant and he holds a B.A. in Accounting and Economics and an M.B.A. from Tel Aviv University.
51
Eli Cohen has served as our Vice President International Sales since 2008. Prior to joining us, from 2006 through 2008, Mr. Cohen was general manager of the Access Line business and before that the Vice President of Sales and Sales Operations for the Broadband Access Division at ECI Telecom, a supplier of networking infrastructure for carriers and service provider networks. Previously, Mr. Cohen held various senior positions in sales and marketing from 2002 to 2006 at ECI. Before that, between 1999 and 2002, Mr. Cohen was CEO and Director of Sales & Marketing of GigaSpaces Technologies, an e-commerce start-up company in the field of infrastructure for business and residential applications. Mr. Cohen has a B.Sc. in Electronic Engineering from Coventry University and an M.B.A. from Manchester University.
Elazar (Azi) Ronen has served as our Executive Vice President — Corporate Development since 2005 and served as Executive Vice President — Technology and Marketing from 1999 to 2005. Prior to joining us, from 1998 through 1999, Mr. Ronen was the Vice President of Marketing at VocalTec Communications, a vendor of VoIP networking equipment. Previously, Mr. Ronen was the Vice President of Research and Development at RADLINX, a member of the RAD group, a vendor of remote access servers and fax over IP networking equipment from 1990 to 1998. Mr. Ronen has a B.Sc., cum laude, in Computer Sciences from the Technion — Israel Institute of Technology.
Jay Klein joined our company in 2006 and has served as VP and CTO since 2007. Mr. Klein is responsible for driving our technology strategy, expanding our core algorithmic competence and driving intellectual property development, industry standards involvement and academic cooperation. Prior to joining us, between 2004 and 2006, Mr. Klein served as VP at DSPG (VoIP and multimedia silicon solutions) where he was responsible for strategic technology acquisitions. Between 1997 and 2003, Mr. Klein was Co-Founder and CTO of Ensemble Communications, a wireless access systems manufacturer and was one of the founders and creators of WiMAX and IEEE 802.16. Prior to that, between 1993 and 1997, he served as CTO and VP of R&D at CPT Systems, a cellular systems manufacturer, which was acquired by DSP Communications and later by Intel. Mr. Klein holds a B.Sc. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Tel-Aviv University.
Pini Gvili has served as our Vice President — Operations since 2006. Prior to joining us, from 2004 to 2006, he served as Vice President Operations for Celerica, a start-up company specializing in solutions for cellular network optimization. From 2001 to 2004, Mr. Gvili was the Vice President — Operations and IT at Terayon Communication Systems, and from 1998 to 2000, held the position of Manager of Integration and Final Testing at Telegate. Mr. Gvili was also a hardware/software engineer at Comverse/Efrat, a world leader of voice mail and digital recording systems, from 1994 to 1997. Mr. Gvili has a B.Sc. in Computer Science from Champlain University and was awarded a practical electronics degree from ORT Technical College.
Ramy Moriah has served as our Vice President — Customer Care & IT since 2005. Prior to joining us, Mr. Moriah was a founding member of Daisy System’s Design Center in Israel, in 1984. From 1991 to 1994, Mr. Moriah held the position of Manager of Software Development at Orbot Instruments, a world leader of Automatic Optical Inspection manufacturer for the VLSI Chip Industry. Mr. Moriah was also the acting General Manager at ACA, 3D CAD/solid modeling software for architecture from 1995 to 1997, and served there as Vice President — Research and Development from 1995 to 1997. Mr. Moriah holds a B.Sc., cum laude, in Computer Engineering from the Technion — Israel Institute of Technology and an M.Sc. in Management and Information Systems from the Tel Aviv University School of Business Administration.
52
Vin Costello has served as VP and & General Manager – Americas since 2006. Mr. Costello began his career with NYNEX and rapidly rose through the ranks achieving the title of Vice President, Business Network Solutions and Vice President Global Sales. Mr. Costello founded and headed NYNEX Network Integration and upon the merger with Bell Atlantic, was named President and CEO of Bell Atlantic Network Integration. Mr. Costello departed Verizon for an optical networking start-up where he served as VP of Sales and assisted Corvis Corporation, in their successful initial public offering. Mr. Costello was subsequently named VP and General Manager of the Managed Storage Division after Corvis purchased Broadwing and reinvented itself as a service provider. Mr. Costello holds a B.Sc. in Computer Applications and Information Systems as well as Business Management (double major) from New York University and earned an M.Sc. in Telecommunications and Computing Management from Polytechnic University.
| |
B. | Compensation of Officers and Directors |
The aggregate compensation paid to or accrued on behalf of our directors and executive officers as a group during 2007 consisted of approximately $2.3 million in salary, fees, bonus, commissions and directors’ fees and approximately $377,000 in amounts set aside or accrued to provide pension, retirement or similar benefits, but excluding amounts we expended for automobiles made available to our officers, expenses, including dues for professional and business associations, business travel and other expenses, and other benefits commonly reimbursed or paid by companies in Israel.
We pay each of our outside directors an annual fee of $10,000, paid in four equal installments of $2,500, at the beginning of each calendar quarter with respect to the preceding quarter (with a pro-rata payment for the first and last calendar quarters of service, to the extent the outside director did not serve as such during the entire calendar quarter). Each outside director also was granted upon his or her election options to purchase 15,000 of our ordinary shares, which vest on a quarterly basis over a period of three years.
During 2007, our officers and directors received, in the aggregate, options to purchase 440,000 ordinary shares under our equity based compensation plans. These options have a weighted average exercise price of approximately $8.76 and the options will expire ten years after the date the options were granted.
Corporate Governance Practices
As a foreign private issuer, we are permitted under Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 4350 to follow Israeli corporate governance practices instead of the Nasdaq Global Market requirements, provided we disclose which requirements we are not following and the equivalent Israeli requirement. We must also provide Nasdaq with a letter from outside counsel in our home country, Israel, certifying that our corporate governance practices are not prohibited by Israeli law.
53
We rely on this “foreign private issuer exemption” with respect to the following items:
| | |
| · | We follow the requirements of Israeli law with respect to the quorum requirement for meetings of our shareholders, which are different from the requirements of Rule 4350(f). Under our articles of association, the quorum required for an ordinary meeting of shareholders consists of at least two shareholders present in person, by proxy or by written ballot, who hold or represent between them at least 25% of the voting power of our shares, instead of 33 1/3% of the issued share capital provided by under the Nasdaq Global Market requirements. This quorum requirement is based on the default requirement set forth in the Israeli Companies Law, 1999, or the Companies Law. We submitted a letter from our outside counsel in connection with this item prior to our initial public offering in November 2006. |
| | |
| · | We do not seek shareholder approval for equity compensation plans in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Law, which does not fully reflect the requirements of Rule 4350(i)(1)(A). Under Israeli law, we may amend our 2006 Incentive Compensation Plan by the approval of our board of directors, and without shareholder approval as is generally required under rule 4350(i)(1)(A). Under Israeli law, the adoption and amendment of equity compensation plans, including changes to the reserved shares, do not require shareholder approval. We submitted a letter from our outside counsel in connection with this item in June 2008. |
We otherwise comply with the Nasdaq Global Market rules requiring that listed companies have a majority of independent directors and maintain a compensation and nominating committee composed entirely of independent directors. We are also subject to Israeli corporate governance requirements applicable to companies incorporated in Israel whose securities are listed for trading on a stock exchange outside of Israel.
We may in the future provide Nasdaq with an additional letter or letters notifying Nasdaq that we are following our home country practices, consistent with the Israeli Companies Law and practices, in lieu of other requirements of Marketplace Rule 4350.
Board of Directors
Terms of Directors
Our current board of directors consists of seven directors, each of whom was appointed by a certain group of shareholders pursuant to rights of appointment granted in our previous articles of association, except for Mr. Hadar, who serves on our board of directors by virtue of his position as Chief Executive Officer and the outside directors, Ms. Benjamini and Mr. Levy, who were elected by our shareholders in 2007. Our articles of association provide that we may have not less than five directors and up to nine directors. The members of our board of directors do not receive any additional remuneration upon termination of their services as directors.
Under our articles of association our directors (other than the outside directors, whose appointment is required under the Companies Law; see “—Outside Directors”) are divided into three classes. Each class of directors consists, as nearly as possible, of one-third of the total number of directors constituting the entire board of directors (other than the outside directors). At each annual general meeting of our shareholders, the election or re-election of directors following the expiration of the term of office of the directors of that class of directors, will be for a term of office that expires on the third annual general meeting following such election or re-election, such that each year the term of office of only one class of directors will expire. Yossi Sela who is a Class I director, will hold office until our annual meeting of shareholders to be held in 2010. Class II directors, consisting of Dr. Eyal Kishon and Shai Saul, will hold office until our annual meeting of shareholders to be held in 2008. Class III directors, consisting of Yigal Jacoby and Rami Hadar, will hold office until our annual meeting of shareholders to be held in 2009. The directors shall be elected by a vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power present and voting at that meeting. Each director, will hold office until the annual general meeting of our shareholders for the year in which his term expires and until his successor is elected and qualified, unless the tenure of such director expires earlier pursuant to the Companies Law or unless he is removed from office as described below.
54
Under our articles of association the approval of a special majority of the holders of at least 75.0% of the voting rights present and voting at a general meeting is generally required to remove any of our directors from office. The holders of a majority of the voting power present and voting at a meeting may elect directors in their stead or fill any vacancy, however created, in our board of directors. In addition, vacancies on our board of directors, other than vacancies created by an outside director, may be filled by a vote of a simple majority of the directors then in office. A director so chosen or appointed will hold office until the next annual general meeting of our shareholders, unless earlier removed by the vote of a majority of the directors then in office prior to such annual meeting. See “—Outside Directors” for a description of the procedure for election of outside directors.
Outside Directors
Qualifications of Outside Directors
Under the Israeli Companies Law, companies incorporated under the laws of the State of Israel that are “public companies,” which also includes companies with shares listed on the Nasdaq Global Market, are required to appoint at least two outside directors.
A person may not serve as an outside director if at the date of the person’s appointment or within the prior two years, the person, the person’s relatives, entities under the person’s control, or the person’s partners or employer, have or had any affiliation with us or any entity controlled by or under common control with us during the prior two years, or which controls us at the time of such person’s appointment.
The term affiliation includes:
| | |
| · | an employment relationship; |
| | |
| · | a business or professional relationship maintained on a regular basis; |
| | |
| · | control; and |
| | |
| · | service as an office holder, excluding service as a director in a private company prior to the first offering of its shares to the public if such director was appointed as a director of the private company in order to serve as an outside director following the public offering. |
The term relative is defined as spouses, siblings, parents, grandparents, descendants, spouse’s descendants and the spouses of each of these persons.
55
The term office holder is defined as a director, general manager, chief business manager, deputy general manager, vice general manager, executive vice president, vice president, other manager directly subordinate to the general manager or any other person assuming the responsibilities of any of the foregoing positions, without regard to such person’s title. Each person listed under “—Directors and Senior Management” is an office holder.
No person can serve as an outside director if the person’s position or other business create, or may create, a conflict of interests with the person’s responsibilities as a director or may otherwise interfere with the person’s ability to serve as a director. If at the time an outside director is appointed all current members of the board of directors are of the same gender, then that outside director must be of the other gender.
The Companies Law provides that each outside director must meet certain professional qualifications or have financial and accounting expertise, and that at least one outside director must have financial and accounting expertise. However, if at least one of our directors meets the independence requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the standards of the Nasdaq Global Market rules for membership on the audit committee and also has financial and accounting expertise as defined in the Companies Law and applicable regulations, then our outside directors are required to meet the professional qualifications only. Under applicable regulations, a director with financial and accounting expertise is a director who, by reason of his or her education, professional experience and skill, has a high level of proficiency in and understanding of business accounting matters and financial statements. He or she must be able to thoroughly comprehend the financial statements of the company and initiate debate regarding the manner in which financial information is presented. The regulations define a director with the requisite professional qualifications as a director who satisfies one of the following requirements: (1) the director holds an academic degree in either economics, business administration, accounting, law or public administration, (2) the director either holds an academic degree in any other field or has completed another form of higher education in the company’s primary field of business or in an area which is relevant to the office of an outside director, or (3) the director has at least five years of cumulative experience serving in one or more of the following capacities: (a) a senior business management position in a corporation with a substantial scope of business, (b) a senior position in the company’s primary field of business or (c) a senior position in public administration.
Until the lapse of two years from termination of office, a company may not engage an outside director to serve as an office holder and cannot employ or receive professional services for payment from that person, either directly or indirectly, including through a corporation controlled by that person.
Election of Outside Directors
Outside directors are elected by a majority vote at a shareholders’ meeting, provided that either:
| | |
| · | the majority of shares voted at the meeting, including at least one-third of the shares of non-controlling shareholders voted at the meeting, excluding abstentions, vote in favor of the election of the outside director; or |
56
| | |
| · | the total number of shares of non-controlling shareholders voted against the election of the outside director does not exceed one percent of the aggregate voting rights in the company. |
For a company such as ours, the initial term of an outside director is three years and may be extended for additional three-year terms by the shareholders, if certain conditions are met. An outside director can be removed from office only by the same majority of shareholders that is required to elect an outside director, or by a court (if the outside director ceases to meet the statutory qualifications with respect to his or her appointment, or if he or she violates his or her duty of loyalty to the company). Each committee of a company’s board of directors which is authorized to exercise the board of directors’ authorities is required to include at least one outside director, except for the audit committee, which is required to include all outside director.
An outside director is entitled to compensation as provided in regulations promulgated under the Companies Law and is otherwise prohibited from receiving any other compensation, directly or indirectly, in connection with services provided as an outside director.
Nasdaq Requirements
Under the rules of the Nasdaq Global Market, a majority of directors must meet the definition of independence contained in those rules. Our board of directors has determined that all of our directors, other than Yigal Jacoby and Rami Hadar, meet the independence standards contained in the rules of the Nasdaq Global Market. We do not believe that any of these directors have a relationship that would preclude a finding of independence under these rules and, in reaching its determination, our board of directors determined that the other relationships that these directors have with us do not impair their independence.
Audit Committee
Companies Law Requirements
Under the Companies Law, the board of directors of any public company must also appoint an audit committee comprised of at least three directors including all of the outside directors, but excluding the:
| | |
| · | chairman of the board of directors; |
| | |
| · | controlling shareholder or a relative of a controlling shareholder; and |
| | |
| · | any director employed by the company or who provides services to the company on a regular basis. |
Nasdaq Requirements
Under the Nasdaq Global Market rules, we are required to maintain an audit committee consisting of at least three independent directors, all of whom are financially literate and one of whom has accounting or related financial management expertise. Our audit committee members are required to meet additional independence standards, including minimum standards set forth in rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission and adopted by the Nasdaq Global Market.
57
Approval of Transactions with Office Holders and Controlling Shareholders
The approval of the audit committee is required to effect specified actions and transactions with office holders and controlling shareholders. The term controlling shareholder means a shareholder with the ability to direct the activities of the company, other than by virtue of being an office holder. A shareholder is presumed to be a controlling shareholder if the shareholder holds 50.0% or more of the voting rights in a company or has the right to appoint the majority of the directors of the company or its general manager. For the purpose of approving transactions with controlling shareholders, the term also includes any shareholder that holds 25.0% or more of the voting rights of the company if the company has no shareholder that owns more than 50.0% of its voting rights. For purposes of determining the holding percentage stated above, two or more shareholders who have a personal interest in a transaction that is brought for the company’s approval are deemed as joint holders. The audit committee may not approve an action or a transaction with a controlling shareholder or with an office holder unless at the time of approval two outside directors are serving as members of the audit committee and at least one of them was present at the meeting at which the approval was granted.
Audit Committee Role
Our board of directors has adopted an audit committee charter setting forth the responsibilities of the audit committee consistent with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission and The Nasdaq Global Market rules, which include:
| | |
| · | retaining and terminating the company’s independent auditors, subject to shareholder ratification; |
| | |
| · | pre-approval of audit and non-audit services provided by the independent auditors; and |
| | |
| · | approval of transactions with office holders and controlling shareholders, as described above, and other related-party transactions. |
Additionally, under the Companies Law, the role of the audit committee is to identify irregularities in the business management of the company in consultation with the internal auditor or the company’s independent auditors and suggest an appropriate course of action to the board of directors and to approve the yearly or periodic work plan proposed by the internal auditor to the extent required. The audit committee charter states that in fulfilling this role the committee is entitled to rely on interviews and consultations with our management, our internal auditor and our independent auditor, and is not obligated to conduct any independent investigation or verification.
Our audit committee consists of our directors, Ms. Nurit Benjamini, Mr. Steven Levy and Dr. Eyal Kishon. The financial expert on the audit committee pursuant to the definition of the Securities and Exchange Commission is Ms. Benjamini.
58
Compensation and Nominating Committee
We have established a compensation and nominating committee consisting of our directors, Mr. Yossi Sela, Dr. Eyal Kishon, Ms. Nurit Benjamini and Mr. Shai Saul. This committee also oversees matters related to our corporate governance practices. Our board of directors has adopted a compensation and nominating committee charter setting forth the responsibilities of the committee consistent with the Nasdaq Global Market rules, which include:
| | |
| · | determining the compensation of our Chief Executive Officer and other executive officers; |
| | |
| · | granting options to our employees and the employees of our subsidiaries; |
| | |
| · | recommending candidates for nomination as members of our board of directors; and |
| | |
| · | developing and recommending to the board corporate governance guidelines and a code of business ethics and conduct in accordance with applicable laws. |
Internal Auditor
Under the Companies Law, the board of directors of a public company must appoint an internal auditor nominated by the audit committee. The role of the internal auditor is, among other things, to examine whether a company’s actions comply with applicable law and orderly business procedure. Under the Companies Law, the internal auditor may be an employee of the company but not an interested party or an office holder or a relative of an interested party or an office holder, nor may the internal auditor be the company’s independent auditor or the representative of the same. An interested party is defined in the Companies Law as a holder of 5.0% or more of the issued share capital or voting power in a company, any person or entity who has the right to designate one director or more or the chief executive officer of the company or any person who serves as a director or as a chief executive officer. In February 2007, our board of directors approved the appointment of the firm of Haikin, Rubin, Cohen & Gilboa as the internal auditor of the Company.
Exculpation, Insurance and Indemnification of Office Holders
Under the Companies Law, a company may not exculpate an office holder from liability for a breach of the duty of loyalty. However, a company may approve an act performed in breach of the duty of loyalty of an office holder provided that the office holder acted in good faith, the act or its approval does not harm the company, and the office holder discloses the nature of his or her personal interest in the act and all material facts and documents a reasonable time before discussion of the approval. An Israeli company may exculpate an office holder in advance from liability to the company, in whole or in part, for damages caused to the company as a result of a breach of duty of care but only if a provision authorizing such exculpation is inserted in its articles of association. Our articles of association include such a provision. An Israeli company may not exculpate a director for liability arising out of a prohibited dividend or distribution to shareholders.
59
An Israeli company may indemnify an office holder in respect of certain liabilities either in advance of an event or following an event provided a provision authorizing such indemnification is inserted in its articles of association. Our articles of association contain such an authorization. An undertaking provided in advance by an Israeli company to indemnify an office holder with respect to a financial liability imposed on him or her in favor of another person pursuant to a judgment, settlement or arbitrator’s award approved by a court must be limited to events which in the opinion of the board of directors can be foreseen based on the company’s activities when the undertaking to indemnify is given, and to an amount or according to criteria determined by the board of directors as reasonable under the circumstances, and such undertaking shall detail the above mentioned events and amount or criteria. In addition, a company may undertake in advance to indemnify an office holder against the following liabilities incurred for acts performed as an office holder:
| | |
| · | reasonable litigation expenses, including attorneys’ fees, incurred by the office holder as a result of an investigation or proceeding instituted against him or her by an authority authorized to conduct such investigation or proceeding, provided that (i) no indictment was filed against such office holder as a result of such investigation or proceeding; and (ii) no financial liability, such as a criminal penalty, was imposed upon him or her as a substitute for the criminal proceeding as a result of such investigation or proceeding or, if such financial liability was imposed, it was imposed with respect to an offense that does not require proof of criminal intent; and |
| | |
| · | reasonable litigation expenses, including attorneys’ fees, incurred by the office holder or imposed by a court in proceedings instituted against him or her by the company, on its behalf or by a third party or in connection with criminal proceedings in which the office holder was acquitted or as a result of a conviction for an offense that does not require proof of criminal intent. |
An Israeli company may insure an office holder against the following liabilities incurred for acts performed as an office holder if and to the extent provided in the company’s articles of association:
| | |
| · | a breach of duty of loyalty to the company, to the extent that the office holder acted in good faith and had a reasonable basis to believe that the act would not prejudice the company; |
| | |
| · | a breach of duty of care to the company or to a third party, including a breach arising out of the negligent conduct of the office holder; and |
| | |
| · | a financial liability imposed on the office holder in favor of a third party. |
An Israeli company may not indemnify or insure an office holder against any of the following:
| | |
| · | a breach of duty of loyalty, except to the extent that the office holder acted in good faith and had a reasonable basis to believe that the act would not prejudice the company; |
| | |
| · | a breach of duty of care committed intentionally or recklessly, excluding a breach arising out of the negligent conduct of the office holder; |
| | |
| · | an act or omission committed with intent to derive illegal personal benefit; or |
| | |
| · | a fine or forfeit levied against the office holder. |
60
Under the Companies Law, exculpation, indemnification and insurance of office holders must be approved by our audit committee and our board of directors and, in respect of our directors, by our shareholders.
Our articles of association allow us to indemnify and insure our office holders to the fullest extent permitted by the Companies Law. Our office holders are currently covered by a directors and officers’ liability insurance policy. In May 2007, we and certain of our officers and directors were named as defendants in a number of purported securities class action lawsuits filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and that were consolidated to “In re Allot Communications Ltd. Securities Litigation.” under Master File No. 07-cv-03455 (RJH). See “ITEM 8: Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.” As of the date of this annual report, no other claims for directors and officers’ liability insurance have been filed under our policies and we are not aware of any pending or threatened litigation or proceeding involving any of our directors or officers in which indemnification is sought.
We have entered into agreements with each of our directors and office holders exculpating them, to the fullest extent permitted by law, from liability to us for damages caused to us as a result of a breach of duty of care, and undertaking to indemnify them to the fullest extent permitted by law. This indemnification is limited to events determined as foreseeable by the board of directors based on our activities, and to an amount or according to criteria determined by the board of directors as reasonable under the circumstances, and the insurance is subject to our discretion depending on its availability, effectiveness and cost. The current maximum amount set forth in such agreements is the greater of (1) with respect to indemnification in connection with a public offering of our securities, the gross proceeds raised by us and/or any selling shareholder in such public offering, and (2) with respect to all permitted indemnification, including a public offering of our securities, an amount equal to 50% of the our shareholders’ equity on a consolidated basis, based on our most recent financial statements made publicly available before the date on which the indemnity payment is made.
In the opinion of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, however, indemnification of directors and office holders for liabilities arising under the Securities Act is against public policy and therefore unenforceable.
As of December 31, 2007, we had 242 employees of whom 174 were based in Israel, 29 in the United States and the remainder in Asia and Europe. The breakdown of our employees by department is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | December 31, | |
| | |
| |
Department | | | 2005 | | | 2006 | | | 2007 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Manufacturing and operations | | | 14 | | | 19 | | | 19 | |
Research and development | | | 75 | | | 95 | | | 89 | |
Sales, marketing, service and support | | | 80 | | | 95 | | | 102 | |
Management and administration | | | 15 | | | 27 | | | 32 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | | 184 | | | 236 | | | 242 | |
61
Under applicable Israeli law, we and our employees are subject to protective labor provisions such as restrictions on working hours, minimum wages, minimum vacation, sick pay, severance pay and advance notice of termination of employment as well as equal opportunity and anti-discrimination laws. Orders issued by the Israeli Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor make certain industry-wide collective bargaining agreements applicable to us. These agreements affect matters such as cost of living adjustments to salaries, length of working hours and week, recuperation, travel expenses, and pension rights. Our employees are not represented by a labor union. We provide our employees with benefits and working conditions which we believe are competitive with benefits and working conditions provided by similar companies in Israel. We have never experienced labor-related work stoppages and believe that our relations with our employees are good.
Beneficial Ownership of Executive Officers and Directors
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares as of June 15, 2008, of each of our directors and executive officers.
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Name of Beneficial Owner | | Number of Shares Beneficially Held(1) | | | Percent of Class | | |
| |
| | |
| | |
| | | | | | | |
Directors | | | | | | | |
Shai Saul(2) | | 2,337,843 | | | 10.6 | % | |
Dr. Eyal Kishon(3) | | 2,034,760 | | | 9.2 | % | |
Yigal Jacoby(4) | | 1,817,674 | | | 7.9 | % | |
Yossi Sela(5) | | 1,708,929 | | | 7.7 | % | |
Rami Hadar | | 272,963 | | | 1.2 | % | |
Nurit Benjamini | | * | | | * | | |
Steven D. Levy | | * | | | * | | |
| | | | | | | |
Executive Officers | | | | | | | |
Amir Weinstein | | 215,811 | | | 1.0 | % | |
Anat Shenig | | * | | | * | | |
Andrei Elefant | | * | | | * | | |
Doron Arazi | | * | | | * | | |
Elazar (Azi) Ronen | | * | | | * | | |
Eli Cohen | | * | | | * | | |
Jay Klein | | * | | | * | | |
Pini Gvili | | * | | | * | | |
Ramy Moriah | | * | | | * | | |
Vin Costello | | * | | | * | | |
| | | | | | | |
All directors and executive officers as a group | | 8,552,483 | | | 38.4 | % | |
| |
* | Less than one percent of the outstanding ordinary shares. |
| |
(1) | As used in this table, “beneficial ownership” means the sole or shared power to vote or direct the voting or to dispose or direct the disposition of any security. For purposes of this table, a person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of securities that can be acquired within 60 days from June 15, 2008 through the exercise of any option or warrant. Ordinary shares subject to options or warrants that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days are deemed outstanding for computing the ownership percentage of the person holding such options or warrants, but are not deemed outstanding for computing the ownership percentage of any other person. The amounts and percentages are based upon 22,061,347 ordinary shares outstanding as of June 15, 2008. |
62
| |
(2) | Consists of 2,331,593 shares held by the Tamir Fishman Ventures and an option to purchase 6,250 shares held by Shai Saul. Mr. Saul is a managing partner of Tamir Fishman and, by virtue of his position, may be deemed to have voting and investment power, and thus beneficial ownership, with respect to the shares held by the Tamir Fishman Ventures. Mr. Saul disclaims such beneficial ownership except to the extent of his pecuniary interest therein. |
(3) | Consists of 2,028,510 shares held by the Genesis Group and an option to purchase 6,250 shares held by Dr. Eyal Kishon. Dr. Kishon is a managing partner of Genesis Partners and, by virtue of his position, may be deemed to have voting and investment power, and thus beneficial ownership, with respect to the shares held by the Genesis Group. Dr. Kishon disclaims such beneficial ownership except to the extent of his pecuniary interest therein. |
(4) | Consists of 835,410 shares held by Odem Rotem Holdings Ltd., a company wholly-owned and controlled by Yigal Jacoby, 1,500 shares held by Anat Jacoby, who is Yigal Jacoby’s spouse, and an option to purchase 481,794 shares held by Odem Rotem Holdings. Also consists of options held directly by Mr. Jacoby to purchase 222,491 shares and a right held by Mr. Jacoby to purchase 246,479 shares currently held by a trustee. See “ITEM 7: Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—Escrow Agreement with Yigal Jacoby.” |
(5) | Consists of 1,702,679 shares held by the Gemini Group and an option to purchase 6,250 shares held by Yossi Sela. Mr. Sela is a managing partner of Gemini Israel Funds and, by virtue of his position, may be deemed to have voting and investment power, and thus beneficial ownership, with respect to the shares held by the Gemini Group. Mr. Sela disclaims such beneficial ownership except to the extent of his pecuniary interest therein. |
Our directors and executive officers hold, in the aggregate, options exercisable into 2,495,541 ordinary shares. The 2,495,541 options have a weighted average exercise price of approximately $3.43 per share and have expiration dates until 2018.
Share Option Plans
We have adopted four share option plans and, as of June 1, 2008, we had 3,961,817 ordinary shares reserved for issuance under these plans, with respect to which (i) options to purchase 3,724,603 ordinary shares at a weighted average exercise price of $4.08 per share were outstanding, and (ii) options to purchase 1,748,128 ordinary shares were already exercised by certain of the grantees and such shares were issued by us. As of June 1, 2008, options to purchase 1,785,021 ordinary shares were vested and exercisable.
We will only grant options or other equity incentive awards under the 2006 Incentive Compensation Plan, although previously-granted options will continue to be governed by our other plans.
2006 Incentive Compensation Plan
The 2006 plan is intended to further our success by increasing the ownership interest of certain of our and our subsidiaries’ employees, directors and consultants and to enhance our and our subsidiaries’ ability to attract and retain employees, directors and consultants.
The number of ordinary shares that we may issue under the 2006 plan will increase on the first day of each fiscal year during the term of the 2006 plan, in each case in an amount equal to the lesser of (i) 1,000,000 shares, (ii) 3.5% of our outstanding ordinary shares on the last day of the immediately preceding year, or (iii) an amount determined by our board of directors. The number of shares subject to the 2006 plan is also subject to adjustment if particular capital changes affect our share capital. Ordinary shares subject to outstanding awards under the 2006 plan or our 2003 plan or 1997 plans that are subsequently forfeited or terminated for any other reason before being exercised will again be available for grant under the 2006 plan. As of June 1, 2008, options or other awards to purchase 1,656,399 ordinary shares had been granted under the 2006 plan and 237,214 remained available for future options or other awards.
63
Israeli participants in the 2006 plan may be granted options subject to Section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance. Section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance, allows employees, directors and officers, who are not controlling shareholders and are considered Israeli residents to receive favorable tax treatment for compensation in the form of shares or options. Our non-employees service providers and controlling shareholders may only be granted options under another section of the Tax Ordinance, which does not provide for similar tax benefits. Section 102 includes two alternatives for tax treatment involving the issuance of options or shares to a trustee for the benefit of the grantees and also includes an additional alternative for the issuance of options or shares directly to the grantee. The most favorable tax treatment for the grantees is under Section 102(b)(2) of the Tax Ordinance, the issuance to a trustee under the “capital gain track.” However, under this track we are not allowed to deduct an expense with respect to the issuance of the options or shares. Any stock options granted under the 2006 plan to participants in the United States will be either “incentive stock options,” which may be eligible for special tax treatment under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or options other than incentive stock options (referred to as “nonqualified stock options”), as determined by our compensation and nominating committee and stated in the option agreement.
Our compensation and nominating committee administers the 2006 plan and it will select which of our and our subsidiaries’ and affiliates’ eligible employees, directors and/or consultants shall receive options or other awards under the 2006 plan and will determine the terms of the grant, including, exercise prices, method of payment, vesting schedules, acceleration of vesting and the other matters necessary in the administration of the plan.
If we undergo a change of control, as defined in the 2006 plan, subject to any contrary law or rule, or the terms of any award agreement in effect before the change of control, (a) the compensation and nominating committee may, in its discretion, accelerate the vesting, exercisability and payment, as applicable, of outstanding options and other awards; and (b) the compensation and nominating committee, in its discretion, may adjust outstanding awards by substituting ordinary shares or other securities of any successor or another party to the change of control transaction, or cash out outstanding options and other awards, in any such case, generally based on the consideration received by our shareholders in the transaction.
Allot Communications Ltd. Key Employee Share Incentive Plan (2003)
Our 2003 share option plan provides for the grant of options to our and our affiliates’ employees, directors, officers, consultants, advisers and service providers. As of June 1, 2008, there were outstanding options to purchase 2,169,664 ordinary shares under the plan, of which options to purchase 1,572,337 ordinary shares were vested and exercisable and options to purchase 991,794 ordinary shares were already exercised for ordinary shares. We no longer grant options under this plan, and ordinary shares underlying any option granted under this plan that terminates without exercise become available for future issuance under our 2006 plan.
64
The terms of the 2003 plan are in compliance with Section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance, which allows employees, directors and officers, who are not controlling shareholders and are considered Israeli residents to receive favorable tax treatment for compensation in the form of shares or options. Our non-employees service providers and controlling shareholders may only be granted options under another section of the Tax Ordinance, which does not provide for similar tax benefits.
We have elected to issue our options under the capital gain track and, accordingly, all options granted under this plan to Israeli residents have been granted under the capital gain track. Section 102 also provides for an income tax track, under which, among other things, the benefits to the employees would be taxed as ordinary income, we would be allowed to recognize expenses for tax purposes and the minimum holding period for the trustee will be twelve months from the end of the calendar year in which such options are granted, and if granted after January 1, 2006, twelve months after the date of grant. In order to comply with the terms of the capital gain track, all options, as well as the ordinary shares issued upon exercise of these options and other shares received subsequently following any realization of rights with respect to such options, such as stock dividends and stock splits are granted to a trustee and should be held by the trustee for the lesser of thirty months from the date of grant, or two years following the end of the tax year in which the options were granted and if granted after January 1, 2006 only two years after the date of grant. Under this plan, all options, whether or not granted pursuant to said Section 102, the ordinary shares issued upon their exercise and other shares received subsequently following any realization of rights are issued to a trustee.
The plan is administered by our board of directors which has delegated certain responsibilities to our compensation and nomination committee.
In the event of our being acquired by means of merger with or into another entity, in which our outstanding shares are exchanged for securities or other consideration issued, or caused to be issued, by the acquiring company or its subsidiary, or in the event of the sale of all or substantially all of our assets, to the extent it has not been previously exercised, each vested or unvested option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such transaction. The plan further provides that, in the event of our consolidation or merger with or into another corporation, the compensation committee may, in its absolute discretion and without obligation, agree that instead of termination: (i) each unexercised option, if possible, will be assumed or an equivalent option will be substituted by our successor corporation or a parent or subsidiary of our successor corporation; or (ii) we will pay to the grantee an amount equivalent to the valuation of the grantee’s unexercised options on an as converted basis at that time.
Allot Communications Ltd. Key Employees Share Incentive Plan and Key Employees of Subsidiaries and Consultants Share Incentive Plan (1997)
Our Key Employees Share Incentive Plan, adopted in 1997, provides for the grant of options to any of our directors, officers and employees, and our Key Employees of Subsidiaries and Consultants Share Incentive Plan, also adopted in 1997, provides for the grant of options to any of our or our subsidiaries’ directors, officers, employees, or consultants. The terms of both plans are identical, except that the grant of options under the first plan was made in compliance with the provisions of Section 102 of the Tax Ordinance, as was in effect in 1997 and prior to its amendments in 2003, which allows employees who are considered Israeli residents to receive favorable tax treatment.
65
As of June 1, 2008, there were outstanding options to purchase 9,737 ordinary shares under the two plans, all of which were vested and options to purchase 9,737 ordinary shares that were already exercised for ordinary shares. We no longer grant options under these plans, and ordinary shares underlying any option granted under these plans that terminate without exercise become available for future issuance under our 2006 plan.
The plans are administered by our compensation and nominating committee.
ITEM 7: Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial ownership of our outstanding ordinary shares as of June 15, 2008, by each person who we know beneficially owns 5.0% or more of the outstanding ordinary shares. Each of our shareholders has identical voting rights with respect to its shares. All of the information with respect to beneficial ownership of the ordinary shares is given to the best of our knowledge.
| | | | |
| | Ordinary Shares Beneficially Owned(1) | | Percentage of Ordinary Shares Beneficially Owned |
| |
| |
|
| | | | |
Brookside Capital Fund(2) | | 3,426,638 | | 15.5% |
Tamir Fishman Ventures(3) | | 2,337,843 | | 10.6% |
Genesis Partners(4) | | 2,034,760 | | 9.2% |
Yigal Jacoby(5) | | 1,817,674 | | 7.9% |
Gemini Group(6) | | 1,708,929 | | 7.8% |
Partech International Group(7) | | 1,280,562 | | 5.8% |
| |
(1) | As used in this table, “beneficial ownership” means the sole or shared power to vote or direct the voting or to dispose or direct the disposition of any security. For purposes of this table, a person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of securities that can be acquired within 60 days from June 15, 2008 through the exercise of any option or warrant. Ordinary shares subject to options or warrants that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days are deemed outstanding for computing the ownership percentage of the person holding such options or warrants, but are not deemed outstanding for computing the ownership percentage of any other person. The amounts and percentages are based upon 22,061,347 ordinary shares outstanding as of June 15, 2008. |
(2) | Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed on January 9, 2008. Consists of 3,426,638 shares held by Brookside Capital Partners Fund, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership. Brookside Capital Investors, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership is the sole general partner of the Brookside Capital Partners Fund, L.P. Brookside Capital Management, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, is the sole general partner of Brookside Capital Investors, L.P. Domenic J. Ferrante is the sole managing member of Brookside Capital Management, LLC. The address of the Brookside entities and the foregoing individual is 111 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02199. |
66
| |
(3) | Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 14, 2008. Consists of 1,165,014 shares held by Tamir Fishman Ventures II L.P., 804,842 shares held by Tamir Fishman Venture Capital II Ltd., 155,904 shares held by Tamir Fishman Ventures II (Israel) L.P., 138,310 shares held by Tamir Fishman Ventures II (Cayman Islands) L.P., 54,543 shares held by Tamir Fishman Ventures II CEO Funds (U.S.) L.P., 12,980 shares held by Tamir Fishman Ventures II CEO Funds L.P. and an option to purchase 6,250 shares held by Shai Saul. Tamir Fishman Ventures II, LLC is the sole general partner of each of the foregoing limited partnerships and has management rights over the shares held by Tamir Fishman Venture Capital II Ltd. by virtue of a management agreement with Tamir Fishman Ventures II, LLC. The managing members of Tamir Fishman Ventures II, LLC are Shai Saul, Michael Elias and Tamir Fishman & Co. Ltd. Eldad Tamir and Danny Fishman are Co-Presidents and Co-Chief Executive Officers of Tamir Fishman & Co. Ltd. and, by virtue of their positions, may be deemed to be beneficial owners of the securities held thereby. Each of the foregoing entities and individuals disclaims beneficial ownership of these securities except to the extent of its or his pecuniary interest therein. The address of the Tamir Fishman entities and the foregoing individuals is 21 Haarbaa, Tel Aviv 64739 Israel. |
(4) | Based on a Schedule 13G filed on February 14, 2007. Consists of 1,312,770 shares held by Genesis Partners I L.P., 715,740 shares held by Genesis Partners (Cayman) L.P. and an option to purchase 6,250 shares held by Dr. Eyal Kishon. Eddy Shalev and Dr. Kishon are the directors of E. Shalev Management Ltd., a general partner of these funds. These individuals each have voting, investment and dispositive power with respect to the shares held by the Genesis entities and may be deemed to be beneficial owners of the securities held thereby. Each individual disclaims beneficial ownership of these securities except to the extent of his pecuniary interest therein. The address of the Genesis entities and the foregoing individuals is 11 HaMenofim Street, Herzliya Pituach 46725, Israel. |
(5) | Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 20, 2008. Consists of 30,000 ordinary shares personally held by Yigal Jacoby, 1,500 ordinary shares held jointly by Yigal Jacoby and his wife, Anat Jacoby. Also consists of options held directly by Mr. Jacoby to purchase 222,491 shares and a right held by Mr. Jacoby to purchase 246,479 shares currently held by a trustee. Also consists of 835,410 shares held by Odem Rotem Holdings Ltd., a company wholly-owned and controlled by Mr. Jacoby, and an option to purchase 481,794 shares held by Odem Rotem Holdings. The address of Mr. Jacoby is 22 Hanagar Street, Neve Ne'eman Industrial Zone B, Hod-Hasharon 45240, Israel. The address of Odem Rotem Holdings Ltd. and Anat Jacoby is 9 Nordau Street, Rannana, Israel. |
(6) | Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 14, 2008. Consists of 880,295 shares held by Gemini Israel II L.P., 690,669 shares held by Gemini Israel II Parallel Fund L.P., 112,216 shares held by Advent PGGM Gemini L.P., 19,499 shares held by Gemini Partner Investors L.P. and an option to purchase 6,250 shares held by Yossi Sela. Mr. Sela is a managing partner and a shareholder of Gemini Israel Funds Ltd., the sole general partner or the sole general partner of the general partner of Gemini Israel II L.P., Gemini Israel II Parallel Fund L.P., Advent PGGM Gemini L.P., Gemini Partner Investors L.P., Gemini Israel III L.P. and Gemini Israel III Parallel Fund L.P. The board of directors of Gemini Israel Funds Ltd. has sole investment control with respect to these entities and is comprised of Steve Kahn, Amram Rasiel, Dr. A.I. (Ed) Mlavsky, Yossi Sela and David Cohen. These individuals share voting power over the shares and held by the Gemini entities and may be deemed to be the beneficial owners of the securities held thereby. Each individual disclaims beneficial ownership of these securities except to the extent of his pecuniary interest therein. The address of the Gemini entities and the foregoing individuals is 9 HaMenofim Street, Herzliya Pituach 46725, Israel. |
(7) | Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 14, 2008. Consists of 469,537 shares held by Partech International Growth Capital I LLC, 533,565 shares held by Partech International Growth Capital III LLC, 224,098 shares held by AXA Growth Capital II L.P., 32,016 shares held by Double Black Diamond II LLC and 21,346 shares held by Multinvest LLC. 46th Parallel, LLC is the managing member of each of Partech International Growth Capital I, LLC and Partech International Growth Capital III, LLC. 48th Parallel, LLC is the general partner of AXA Growth Capital II L.P. ParVenture Japan Managers, LLC is the managing member of Multinvest, LLC. Thomas G. McKinley and Vincent Worms are the managing members of Double Black Diamond II, LLC. PAR SF, LLC is the managing member of each of 46th Parallel, LLC and 48th Parallel, LLC. Vincent Worms and Vendome Capital, LLC are the managing members of each of PAR SF, LLC and ParVenture Japan Managers, LLC. Thomas G. McKinley is the managing member of Vendome Capital, LLC. Thomas G. McKinley and Vincent Worms share voting power over the shares held by the Partech International Group and may be deemed to be the beneficial owners of the securities held thereby. Each individual disclaims beneficial ownership of these securities except to the extent of his pecuniary interest therein. The address of the Partech International entities and the foregoing individuals is 50 California Street, Suite 3200, San Francisco, California. |
Significant Changes in the Ownership of Major Shareholders
As of June 15, 2008, Brookside Capital Partners Fund, L.P. was the beneficial owner of 3,426,638, or 15.5%, of our ordinary shares. As of December 31, 2007, Brookside Capital Partners was the beneficial owner of 2,204,921. 10.5%. As of December 31, 2006, Brookside Capital Partners was not a major shareholder.
67
Record Holders
Based on a review of the information provided to us by our transfer agent, as of June 15, 2008, there were 46* record holders of ordinary shares, of which 13 represented United States* record holders holding approximately 67% of our outstanding ordinary shares.
| |
* | Including the Depository Trust Company. |
| |
B. | Related Party Transactions |
Our policy is to enter into transactions with related parties on terms that, on the whole, are no more favorable, or no less favorable, than those available from unaffiliated third parties. Based on our experience in the business sectors in which we operate and the terms of our transactions with unaffiliated third parties, we believe that all of the transactions described below met this policy standard at the time they occurred.
Registration Rights
We have entered into an amended and restated investors rights agreement with certain of our shareholders, pursuant to which holders of 13,275,813 ordinary shares are entitled to certain registration rights as described below. This amount does not include shares issuable upon the exercise of options and warrants, which are also entitled to registration rights as described under “— Registration Rights—Certain Options and Warrants.” In accordance with such agreement, the following entities which beneficially own more than 5.0% of our ordinary shares, are entitled to registration rights: the Tamir Fishman Ventures; the Gemini Group; the Genesis Group; the Partech International Group; and our Chairman, Yigal Jacoby and Odem Rotem Holdings, a company wholly-owned and controlled by Mr. Jacoby.
Demand registration rights.We are required to file a registration statement in respect of ordinary shares held by our former preferred shareholders as follows:
| | |
| · | two registrations at the request of one or more of our shareholders holding ordinary shares representing in the aggregate a majority of ordinary shares resulting from conversion of our Series A preferred shares, Series B preferred shares, collectively, referred to as the B Registrable Securities, and Series C preferred shares and all ordinary shares issued in respect of such shares; |
| | |
| · | one registration at the request of one of more of our shareholders holding ordinary shares representing in the aggregate a majority of ordinary shares resulting from conversion of our Series D preferred shares and all ordinary shares issued in respect of such shares; |
| | |
| · | one registration at the request of one of more of our shareholders holding ordinary shares representing in the aggregate a majority of ordinary shares resulting from conversion of our Series E preferred shares and all ordinary shares issued in respect of such shares; and |
| | |
| · | provided that (1) the aggregate proceeds from any such registration are estimated in good faith to be in excess of $5.0 million and (2) we are not required to effect a registration within 180 days after the effective date of our initial public offering or a registration statement for any subsequent offering. |
68
Following a request to effect a registration by our shareholders as described above, we are required to offer the other shareholders that are entitled to registration rights an opportunity to include their shares in the registration statement. In the event that the managing underwriter advises the registering shareholders in writing that marketing factors require a limitation on the number of shares that can be included in the registration statement, certain preferences will apply with respect to the inclusion of the registrable securities.
Registration on Form F-3.Shareholders holding registrable securities may request that we register such registrable securities on Form F-3, provided that each such registration generates proceeds of at least $2.0 million. This right may be exercised up to twice in any twelve-month period. We are required to give notice of any such request to the other holders of registrable securities and offer them an opportunity to include their shares in the registration statement. In the event that the managing underwriter advises in writing that marketing factors require a limitation on the number of shares that can be included in the registration statement, the shares will be included in the registration statement in an agreed order of preference between the shareholders holding registrable securities.
Piggyback registration rights.Shareholders holding registrable securities also have the right to request that we include their registrable securities in any registration statements filed by us in the future for the purposes of a public offering, subject to specified exceptions. In the event that the managing underwriter advises in writing that marketing factors require a limitation on the number of shares that can be included in the registration statement, the shares will be included in the registration statement in an agreed order of preference between the shareholders holding registrable securities.
Termination.All registration rights granted to holders of registrable securities will terminate on the fifth anniversary of the closing of our initial public offering and, with respect to any of our holders of registrable securities, when the shares held by such shareholder can be sold within a ninety-day period under Rule 144.
Expenses.We will pay all expenses in carrying out the above registrations.
�� Certain options and warrants.We have also granted the following registration rights to holders of certain warrants and options to purchase our preferred shares:
| | |
| · | 68,713 ordinary shares issuable upon the non-cashless exercise of warrants granted to an Israeli bank and 73,069 ordinary shares that were issued to that Israeli bank pursuant to a cashless exercise of warrants are entitled to the same registration rights as the B Registrable Securities, subject to first cutback as to the B Registrable Securities. |
| | |
| · | 163,665 ordinary shares that were issued to an affiliate of another Israeli bank are entitled to notice of and inclusion in any registration statement that we file following our initial public offering. This right terminates with respect to 102,291 of such shares if they can be sold within a 180-day period under Rule 144. |
| | |
| · | 246,479 ordinary shares that have been issued, but are held in trust for the benefit of our Chairman, Yigal Jacoby, pending his payment of the purchase price of such shares, will be entitled, upon the payment of the purchase price, to the same registration rights as the Series A preferred shares. |
69
Agreements with Directors and Officers
Employment of Yigal Jacoby.In October 2006, we entered into an agreement with Yigal Jacoby governing the terms of his employment with us for the provision of management and guidance services with regard to our strategy, long term vision and key objectives. Under the terms of the agreement, Mr. Jacoby is required to devote 75% of his time to his position with us. The agreement contains standard employment provisions, including provisions relating to confidentiality and assignment of inventions. We may terminate Mr. Jacoby’s employment on thirty days’ prior notice, or we may terminate Mr. Jacoby’s employment without notice if we give him thirty days’ pay in lieu of notice. As of February 2008, Mr. Jacoby waives approximately 65% of his salary under the agreement.
Prior to his transition to a direct employment relationship, Mr. Jacoby provided substantially identical services to us pursuant to a consulting agreement, dated December 2001. The agreement was terminated in October 2006. The agreement contained standard confidentiality provisions that survived the agreement’s termination.
In August 2004, we entered into a non-competition agreement with Mr. Jacoby and Odem Rotem Holdings. Under this agreement, Mr. Jacoby and Odem Rotem Holdings are prohibited during the term of Mr. Jacoby’s engagement with us and for a period of twelve months thereafter from directly or indirectly competing with our products or services or directly or indirectly soliciting our employees or consultants to engage in business which competes with our products or services. The non-competition agreement does, however, permit Mr. Jacoby, if he becomes an executive of a venture capital fund in the future to serve as a director of the venture capital fund’s portfolio companies. Further, any employment or solicitation of our employees or consultants or solicitation of business opportunities by a company in which Odem Rotem Holdings or Mr. Jacoby are a director or shareholders are not be deemed, by itself, to violate the non-competition agreement so long as neither Odem Rotem Holdings nor Mr. Jacoby were actively involved in such employment or solicitation.
Escrow Agreement with Yigal Jacoby. A right to purchase 246,479 ordinary shares was granted to Mr. Jacoby in connection with our Series A financing. The shares are issued, but are held in trust for the benefit of the Mr. Jacoby pursuant to an escrow agreement entered into on January 28, 1998, amended on October 26, 2006, by and among the Company, Mr. Jacoby and an escrow agent. Pursuant to the terms of this agreement, the escrow agent is holding such shares for which Mr. Jacoby has paid nominal value. While these shares are held in trust, neither Mr. Jacoby nor the trustee has voting or economic rights with respect to such shares. Mr. Jacoby may exercise his right to purchase the shares in trust, in whole or in part, by paying any portion of the full $600,000 purchase price (less $475 previously paid in respect of the nominal value of the shares) for the respective portion of the shares. Mr. Jacoby has the right to pay any portion of the purchase price for the respective portion of shares by “net payment” of his right to purchase. Mr. Jacoby’s right to purchase expires upon November 15, 2008. See Note 8b(3) to our consolidated financial statements for additional information.
70
Consulting Agreement with Hess MarkITing Ltd.In June 2005, we entered into a consulting agreement with Hess MarkITing Ltd., as consultant, for consulting services to be determined. This agreement was terminated in May 2008. All of the consulting service under that agreement were to be provided through Sharon Hess, our former Vice President — Marketing and the founder and owner of Hess MarkITing Ltd. The agreement contained a non-compete provision prohibiting the consultant from directly or indirectly having any connection with a business or venture that competes with us. Under the agreement, we paid Hess MarkITing a monthly consulting fee, provided use of one of our company cars and granted stock options to purchase our ordinary shares to Ms. Hess. Such monthly consulting fee was recorded as a sales and marketing expense.
Technical Training Services Agreement with Experteam.We have received technical writing services from Experteam Ltd., a company owned and controlled by the wife of our Chairman, Yigal Jacoby. We began using Experteam in 2004 and our expenses incurred in connection with the engagement of Experteam were approximately $14,000 in 2005, $78,000 in 2006 and $36,000 in 2007.
Employment Agreements.We have entered into employment agreements with each of our officers who work for us as employees. These agreements all contain provisions standard for a company in our industry regarding noncompetition, confidentiality of information and assignment of inventions. The enforceability of covenants not to compete in Israel is limited.
Exculpation, Indemnification and Insurance.Our articles of association permit us to exculpate, indemnify and insure our office holders to the fullest extent permitted by the Companies Law. We have entered into agreements with each of our office holders, exculpating them from a breach of their duty of care to us to the fullest extent permitted by law and undertaking to indemnify them to the fullest extent permitted by law, to the extent that these liabilities are not covered by insurance. See “ITEM 6: Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Board Practices—Exculpation, Insurance and Indemnification of Office Holders.”
| |
C. | Interests of experts and counsel |
Not applicable.
ITEM 8: Financial Information
| |
A. | Consolidated Financial Statements and Other Financial Information. |
Consolidated Financial Statements
For our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2007, please see pages F-2 to F-36 of this report.
Export Sales
See “ITEM 5: Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” under the caption “Geographic Breakdown of Revenues” for certain details of export sales for the last three fiscal years.
71
Legal Proceedings
On May 1, 2007, a securities class action complaint,Brickman Investment Inc. v. Allot Communications Ltd. et al., was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. A number of substantially similar complaints were filed in the same court after the original action was filed. We and certain of our directors and officers are named as defendants. The securities class action complaints allege that the defendants violated Sections 11 and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 by making false and misleading statements and omissions in our registration statement for our initial public offering in November 2006. The claims are purportedly brought on behalf of persons who purchased our stock pursuant to and/or traceable to the initial public offering on or about November 15, 2006 through April 2, 2007. The plaintiffs seek unspecified compensatory damages against the defendants, as well as attorney’s fees and costs. Motions for consolidation and for appointment of lead plaintiff were filed on July 2, 2007 and were decided on March 27, 2008, with an order granting consolidation and appointing co-lead plaintiffs. The Consolidated Amended Compliant was served on June 9, 2008. We have not responded to the complaints, and expect to respond on or about August 10, 2008. We believe that we have meritorious defenses to the pleaded claims. We intend to vigorously defend against those claims.
We may, from time to time in the future be involved in legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business.
Dividends
We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our ordinary shares and we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our ordinary shares in the future. We currently intend to retain all future earnings to finance our operations and to expand our business. Any future determination relating to our dividend policy will be made at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on a number of factors, including future earnings, capital requirements, financial condition and future prospects and other factors our board of directors may deem relevant.
Since the date of our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report, there have not been any significant changes in our financial position.
ITEM 9: The Offer and Listing
Not applicable, except for Items 9.A.4 and 9.C, which are detailed below.
Stock Price History
Our ordinary shares began trading publicly on November 16, 2006. Prior to that date, there was no public market for our ordinary shares. The following table lists the high and low closing sale prices for our ordinary shares for the periods indicated as reported by The Nasdaq Global Market.
| | | | | | | |
Year | | High | | Low | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | |
2006 | | $ | 13.81 | | $ | 10.10 | |
2007 | | | 11.50 | | | 4.35 | |
72
| | | | | | | |
| | High | | Low | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | |
2006 | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Fourth Quarter | | $ | 13.81 | | $ | 10.10 | |
| | | | | | | |
2007 | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
First Quarter | | $ | 11.50 | | $ | 8.42 | |
Second Quarter | | | 8.31 | | | 6.45 | |
Third Quarter | | | 8.06 | | | 5.63 | |
Fourth Quarter | | | 6.96 | | | 4.35 | |
| | | | | | | |
2008 | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
First Quarter | | $ | 4.85 | | $ | 2.24 | |
| | | | | | | |
Most Recent Six Months | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
May 2008 | | $ | 3.46 | | $ | 3.10 | |
April 2008 | | | 3.54 | | | 2.50 | |
March 2008 | | | 2.90 | | | 2.24 | |
February 2008 | | | 4.00 | | | 2.80 | |
January 2008 | | | 4.85 | | | 3.97 | |
December 2007 | | | 4.85 | | | 4.35 | |
Markets
Our ordinary shares have been quoted on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “ALLT” since November 16, 2006.
ITEM 10: Additional Information
Not applicable.
| |
B. | Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association |
Memorandum and Articles of Association
We are registered with the Israeli Registrar of Companies in Jerusalem. Our registration number is 51-239477-6.
A description of our memorandum and articles of association was previously provided in our registration statement on Form F-1 (Registration Statement 333-138313) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 31, 2006, and is incorporated herein by reference.
73
Acquisitions under Israeli Law
Full Tender Offer.A person wishing to acquire shares of a public Israeli company and who would as a result hold over 90.0% of the target company’s issued and outstanding share capital is required by the Companies Law to make a tender offer to all of the company’s shareholders for the purchase of all of the issued and outstanding shares of the company. A person wishing to acquire shares of a public Israeli company and who would as a result hold over 90.0% of the issued and outstanding share capital of a certain class of shares is required to make a tender offer to all of the shareholders who hold shares of the same class for the purchase of all of the issued and outstanding shares of the same class. If the shareholders who do not accept the offer hold less than 5.0% of the issued and outstanding share capital of the company or of the applicable class, all of the shares that the acquirer offered to purchase will be transferred to the acquirer by operation of law. However, a shareholder that had its shares so transferred may, within three months from the date of acceptance of the tender offer, petition the court to determine that tender offer was for less than fair value and that the fair value should be paid as determined by the court. If the shareholders who did not accept the tender offer hold at least 5.0% of the issued and outstanding share capital of the company or of the applicable class, the acquirer may not acquire shares of the company that will increase its holdings to more than 90.0% of the company’s issued and outstanding share capital or of the applicable class from shareholders who accepted the tender offer.
Special Tender Offer.The Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares of a public Israeli company must be made by means of a special tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a holder of at least 25.0% of the voting rights in the company. This rule does not apply if there is already another holder of at least 25.0% of the voting rights in the company. Similarly, the Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares in a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a holder of more than 45.0% of the voting rights in the company, if there is no other shareholder of the company who holds more than 45.0% of the voting rights in the company. These requirements do not apply if the acquisition (i) occurs in the context of a private placement by the company that received shareholder approval, (ii) was from a shareholder holding at least 25.0% of the voting rights in the company and resulted in the acquirer becoming a holder of at least 25.0% of the voting rights in the company or (iii) was from a holder of more then 45.0% of the voting rights in the company and resulted in the acquirer becoming a holder of more than 45.0% of the voting rights in the company. The special tender offer may be consummated only if (a) at least 5.0% of the voting rights attached to the company’s outstanding shares will be acquired by the offeror and (b) the number of shares tendered in the offer exceeds the number of shares whose holders objected to the offer.
In the event that a special tender offer is made, a company’s board of directors is required to express its opinion on the advisability of the offer, or shall abstain from expressing any opinion if it is unable to do so, provided that it gives the reasons for its abstention. An office holder in a target company who, in his or her capacity as an office holder, performs an action the purpose of which is to cause the failure of an existing or foreseeable special tender offer or is to impair the chances of its acceptance, is liable to the potential purchaser and shareholders for damages, unless such office holder acted in good faith and had reasonable grounds to believe he or she was acting for the benefit of the company. However, office holders of the target company may negotiate with the potential purchaser in order to improve the terms of the special tender offer, and may further negotiate with third parties in order to obtain a competing offer.
74
If a special tender offer was accepted by a majority of the shareholders who announced their stand on such offer, then shareholders who did not announce their stand or who had objected to the offer may accept the offer within four days of the last day set for the acceptance of the offer.
In the event that a special tender offer is accepted, then the purchaser or any person or entity controlling it or under common control with the purchaser or such controlling person or entity shall refrain of making a subsequent tender offer for the purchase of shares of the target company and cannot execute a merger with the target company for a period of one year from the date of the offer, unless the purchaser or such person or entity undertook to effect such an offer or merger in the initial special tender offer.
Merger.The Companies Law permits merger transactions if approved by each party’s board of directors and, unless certain requirements described under the Companies Law are met, a certain percentage of each party’s shareholders. The board of directors of a merging company is required pursuant to the Companies Law to discuss and determine whether in its opinion there exists a reasonable concern that as a result of a proposed merger, the surviving company will not be able to satisfy its obligations towards its creditors, such determination taking into account the financial status of the merging companies. If the board has determined that such a concern exists, it may not approve a proposed merger. Following the approval of the board of directors of each of the merging companies, the boards must jointly prepare a merger proposal for submission to the Israeli Registrar of Companies.
Under the Companies Law, if the approval of a general meeting of the shareholders is required, merger transactions may be approved by holders of a simple majority of our shares (including the separate vote of each class of shares of the party to the merger which is not the surviving entity) present, in person, by proxy or by written ballot, at a general meeting and voting on the transaction. In determining whether the required majority has approved the merger, if shares of the company are held by the other party to the merger, or by any person holding at least 25.0% of the voting rights or 25.0% of the means of appointing directors or the general manager of the other party to the merger, then a vote against the merger by holders of the majority of the shares present and voting, excluding shares held by the other party or by such person, or any person or entity acting on behalf of, related to or controlled by either of them, is sufficient to reject the merger transaction. If the transaction would have been approved but for the separate approval of each class or the exclusion of the votes of certain shareholders as provided above, a court may still approve the merger upon the request of holders of at least 25.0% of the voting rights of a company, if the court holds that the merger is fair and reasonable, taking into account the value of the parties to the merger and the consideration offered to the shareholders.
Under the Companies Law, each merging company must inform its secured creditors of the proposed merger plans. Creditors are entitled to notice of the merger pursuant to the regulations adopted under the Companies Law. Upon the request of a creditor of either party to the proposed merger, the court may delay or prevent the merger if it concludes that there exists a reasonable concern that, as a result of the merger, the surviving company will be unable to satisfy the obligations of any of the parties to the merger, and may further give instructions to secure the rights of creditors.
75
In addition, a merger may not be completed unless at least fifty days have passed from the date that a proposal for approval of the merger was filed with the Israeli Registrar of Companies and thirty days from the date that shareholder approval of both merging companies was obtained.
Anti-Takeover Measures
Undesignated preferred stock.The Companies Law allows us to create and issue shares having rights different to those attached to our ordinary shares, including shares providing certain preferred or additional rights to voting, distributions or other matters and shares having preemptive rights. We do not have any authorized or issued shares other than ordinary shares. In the future, if we do create and issue a class of shares other than ordinary shares, such class of shares, depending on the specific rights that may be attached to them, may delay or prevent a takeover or otherwise prevent our shareholders from realizing a potential premium over the market value of their ordinary shares. The authorization of a new class of shares will require an amendment to our articles of association which requires the prior approval of a simple majority of our shares represented and voted at a general meeting.
Supermajority voting.Our articles of association require the approval of the holders of at least two thirds of our combined voting power to effect certain amendments to our articles of association.
Classified board of directors.Our articles of association provide for a classified board of directors. See “ITEM 6: Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Board Practices—Term of Directors.”
Transfer Agent and Registrar
The transfer agent and registrar for our ordinary shares is American Stock Transfer& Trust Company. Its address is 59 Maiden Lane, New York, New York 10038 and its telephone number is (718)921-8200.
Summaries of the following material contracts and amendments to these contracts are included in this annual report in the places indicated:
| | |
Material Contract | | Location |
| |
|
| | |
Agreement with R.H. Electronics Ltd. | | “ITEM 4.B: Information on the Company–Business Overview–Manufacturing.” |
| | |
Agreement with Flextronics (Israel) Ltd. | | “ITEM 4.B: Information on the Company–Business Overview–Manufacturing.” |
| | |
Esphion Limited | | “ITEM 5: Operating and Financial Review and Prospects–Operating Results–Overview.” |
| | |
Second Amended and Restated Investor Rights Agreement | | “ITEM 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions–Related Party Transactions–Registration Rights.” |
76
In 1998, Israeli currency control regulations were liberalized significantly, so that Israeli residents generally may freely deal in foreign currency and foreign assets, and non-residents may freely deal in Israeli currency and Israeli assets. There are currently no Israeli currency control restrictions on remittances of dividends on the ordinary shares or the proceeds from the sale of the shares provided that all taxes were paid or withheld; however, legislation remains in effect pursuant to which currency controls can be imposed by administrative action at any time.
Non-residents of Israel may freely hold and trade our securities. Neither our memorandum of association nor our articles of association nor the laws of the State of Israel restrict in any way the ownership or voting of ordinary shares by non-residents, except that such restrictions may exist with respect to citizens of countries which are in a state of war with Israel. Israeli residents are allowed to purchase our ordinary shares.
Israeli Tax Considerations and Government Programs
The following is a general discussion only and is not exhaustive of all possible tax considerations. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal or professional tax advice and should not be relied upon for tax planning purposes. In addition, this discussion does not address all of the tax consequences that may be relevant to purchasers of our ordinary shares in light of their particular circumstances, or certain types of purchasers of our ordinary shares subject to special tax treatment. Examples of this kind of investor include residents of Israel and traders in securities who are subject to special tax regimes not covered in this discussion. Each individual/entity should consult its own tax or legal advisor as to the Israeli tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares.
To the extent that part of the discussion is based on new tax legislation, which has not been subject to judicial or administrative interpretation, we cannot assure that the tax authorities or the courts will accept the views expressed in this section.
The following summary describes the current tax structure applicable to companies in Israel, with special reference to its effect on us. The following also contains a discussion of the material Israeli tax consequences to holders of our ordinary shares.
General Corporate Tax Structure in Israel
Israeli companies were generally subject to corporate tax at the rate of 29% of their taxable income in 2007. The corporate tax rate is scheduled to decline to 27% in 2008, 26% in 2009 and 25% in 2010 and thereafter. However, the effective tax rate payable by a company that derives income from an approved enterprise (as discussed below) may be considerably less.
77
Tax Benefits and Grants for Research and Development
Israeli tax law allows, under certain conditions, a tax deduction for expenditures, including capital expenditures, for the year in which they are incurred. Expenditures are deemed related to scientific research and development projects, if:
| | |
| · | The expenditures are approved by the relevant Israeli government ministry, determined by the field of research; |
| | |
| · | The research and development must be for the promotion of the company; and |
| | |
| · | The research and development is carried out by or on behalf of the company seeking such tax deduction. |
The amount of such deductible expenses is reduced by the sum of any funds received through government grants for the finance of such scientific research and development projects. No deduction under these research and development deduction rules is allowed if such deduction is related to an expense invested in an asset depreciable under the general depreciation rules of the income Tax Ordinance, 1961. Expenditures not so approved are deductible in equal amounts over three years.
We intend to apply the Office of the Chief Scientist for approval to allow a tax deduction for all research and development expenses during the year incurred. There can be no assurance that our application will be accepted.
Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 1969
The Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 1969, generally referred to as the Industry Encouragement Law, provides several tax benefits for industrial companies. We believe that we currently qualify as an “Industrial Company” within the meaning of the Industry Encouragement Law. The Industry Encouragement Law defines “Industrial Company” as a company resident in Israel, of which 90% or more of its income in any tax year, other than of income from defense loans, capital gains, interest and dividend, is derived from an “Industrial Enterprise” owned by it. An “Industrial Enterprise” is defined as an enterprise whose major activity in a given tax year is industrial production activity.
The following corporate tax benefits, among others, are available to Industrial Companies:
| | | |
| · | Amortization of the cost of purchased know-how and patents and of rights to use a patent and know-how which are used for the development or advancement of the company, over an eight-year period; | |
| | | |
| · | Accelerated depreciation rates on equipment and buildings; | |
| | | |
| · | Under specified conditions, an election to file consolidated tax returns with additional related Israeli Industrial Companies; and | |
| | | |
| · | Expenses related to a public offering on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange and, as of January 1, 2003, also on recognized stock markets outside Israel, are deductible in equal amounts over three years. | |
78
Under certain tax laws and regulations, an “Industrial Enterprise” may be eligible for special depreciation rates for machinery, equipment and buildings. These rates differ based on various factors, including the date the operations begin and the number of work shifts. An “Industrial Company” owning an approved enterprise may choose between these special depreciation rates and the depreciation rates available to the approved enterprise.
Eligibility for the benefits under the Industry Encouragement Law is not subject to receipt of prior approval from any governmental authority. We can give no assurance that we qualify or will continue to qualify as an “Industrial Company” or that the benefits described above will be available in the future.
Special Provisions Relating to Taxation Under Inflationary Conditions
The Income Tax Law (Inflationary Adjustments), 1985, generally referred to as the Inflationary Adjustments Law, represents an attempt to overcome the problems presented to a traditional tax system by an economy undergoing rapid inflation. The Inflationary Adjustments Law is highly complex. Its features, which are material to us, can be generally described as follows:
| | |
| · | Where a company’s equity, as calculated under the Inflationary Adjustments Law, exceeds the depreciated cost of its fixed assets (as defined in the Inflationary Adjustments Law), a deduction from taxable income is permitted equal to the excess multiplied by the applicable annual rate of inflation. The maximum deduction permitted in any single tax year is 70% of taxable income, with the unused portion permitted to be carried forward, linked to the Israeli consumer price index. The unused portion that is carried forward may be deducted in full in the following year. |
| | |
| · | Where a company’s depreciated cost of fixed assets exceeds its equity, then the excess multiplied by the applicable annual rate of inflation is added to the company’s ordinary income, provided that the inflation supplement will only be added to the corporate income and not to other sources of income such as capital gains. |
| | |
| · | Subject to certain limitations, depreciation deductions on fixed assets and losses carried forward are adjusted for inflation based on the change in the consumer price index. |
The Minister of Finance may, with the approval of the Knesset Finance Committee, determine by decree, during a certain fiscal year (or until February 28th of the following year) in which the rate of increase of the Israeli consumer price index would not exceed or did not exceed, as applicable, 3%, that some or all of the provisions of the Inflationary Adjustments Law shall not apply with respect to such fiscal year, or, that the rate of increase of the Israeli consumer price index relating to such fiscal year shall be deemed to be 0%, and to make the adjustments required to be made as a result of such determination.
Tax Benefits Under theLaw for Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959
Tax benefits prior the 2005 amendment
The Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959, as amended (effective as of April 1, 2005), generally referred to as the Investments Law, provides that a proposed capital investment in eligible facilities may, upon application to the Investment Center of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of the State of Israel, be designated as an “Approved Enterprise”. The Investment Center bases its decision as to whether or not to approve an application, among other things, on the criteria set forth in the Investments Law and regulations, the policy of the Investment Center, and the specific objectives and financial criteria of the applicant. Each certificate of approval for an Approved Enterprise relates to a specific investment program delineated both by its financial scope, including its capital sources, and by its physical characteristics, such as the equipment to be purchased and utilized pursuant to the program.
79
The Investments Law provides that an approved enterprise is eligible for tax benefits on taxable income derived from its approved enterprise programs. The tax benefits under the Investments Law also apply to income generated by a company from the grant of a usage right with respect to know-how developed by the Approved Enterprise, income generated from royalties, and income derived from a service which is auxiliary to such usage right or royalties, provided that such income is generated within the Approved Enterprise’s ordinary course of business. If a company has more than one approval or only a portion of its capital investments are approved, its effective tax rate is the result of a weighted average of the applicable rates. The tax benefits under the Investments Law are not, generally, available with respect to income derived from products manufactured outside of Israel. In addition, the tax benefits available to an Approved Enterprise are contingent upon the fulfillment of conditions stipulated in the Investments Law and regulations and the criteria set forth in the specific certificate of approval, as described above. In the event that a company does not meet these conditions, it would be required to refund the amount of tax benefits, plus a consumer price index linkage adjustment and interest.
The Investments Law also provides that an Approved Enterprise is entitled to accelerated depreciation on its property and equipment that are included in an Approved Enterprise program in the first five years of using the equipment.
Taxable income of a company derived from an Approved Enterprise is subject to corporate tax at the maximum rate of 25%, rather than the regular corporate tax rate, for the benefit period. This period is ordinarily seven years commencing with the year in which the approved enterprise first generates taxable income after the commencement of production, and is limited to twelve years from commencement of production or fourteen years from the date of approval, whichever is earlier. This time limitation does not apply to the exemption period described below.
Should we derive income from sources other than the Approved Enterprise during the relevant period of benefits, such income will be taxable at the regular corporate tax rates.
Under certain circumstances (as further detailed below), the benefit period may extend to a maximum of ten years from the commencement of the benefit period.
A company may elect to receive an alternative package of benefits. Under the alternative package of benefits, a company’s undistributed income derived from the Approved Enterprise will be exempt from corporate tax for a period of between two and ten years from the first year the company derives taxable income under the program, after the commencement of production, depending on the geographic location of the Approved Enterprise within Israel, and such company will be eligible for a reduced tax rate for the remainder of the benefits period. The year’s limitation does not apply to the exemption period.
80
A company that has elected the alternative package of benefits, such as us, that subsequently pays a dividend out of income derived from the approved enterprise(s) during the tax exemption period will be subject to corporate tax in the year the dividend is distributed in respect of the gross amount distributed, at the rate which would have been applicable had the company not elected the alternative package of benefits, (generally 10%-25%, depending on the percentage of the company’s ordinary shares held by foreign shareholders). The dividend recipient is subject to withholding tax at the reduced rate of 15% applicable to dividends from approved enterprises, if the dividend is distributed during the tax exemption period or within twelve years thereafter. In the event, however, that the company is qualifies as a foreign investors’ company, there is no such time limitation. This tax must be withheld by the company at source, regardless of whether the dividend is converted into foreign currency.
Foreign Investor’s Company (“FIC”)
A company that has an Approved Enterprise program is eligible for further tax benefits if it qualifies as a foreign investors’ company. A foreign investors’ company is a company of which, among other criteria, more than 25% of its share capital and combined share and loan capital is owned by non-Israeli residents. A company that qualifies as a foreign investors’ company and has an approved enterprise program is eligible for tax benefits for a ten-year benefit period. As specified above, depending on the geographic location of the approved enterprise within Israel, income derived from the approved enterprise program may be entitled to the following:
| | |
| · | Extension of the benefit period to up to ten years. |
| | |
| · | An additional period of reduced corporate tax liability at rates ranging between 10% and 25%, depending on the level of foreign (that is, non-Israeli) ownership of our shares. Those tax rates and the related levels of foreign investment are as set forth in the following table: |
| | | | | | |
Rate of Reduced Tax | | Reduced Tax Period | | Tax Exemption Period | | Percent of Foreign Ownership |
| |
| |
| |
|
| | | | | | |
25 | | 0 years | | 10 years | | 0-25% |
25 | | 0 years | | 10 years | | 25-48.99% |
20 | | 0 years | | 10 years | | 49-73.99% |
15 | | 0 years | | 10 years | | 74-89.99% |
10 | | 0 years | | 10 years | | 90-100% |
| | | | | | |
Rate of Reduced Tax | | Reduced Tax Period | | Tax Exemption Period | | Percent of Foreign Ownership |
| |
| |
| |
|
| | | | | | |
25 | | 1 years | | 6 years | | 0-25% |
25 | | 4 years | | 6 years | | 25-48.99% |
20 | | 4 years | | 6 years | | 49-73.99% |
15 | | 4 years | | 6 years | | 74-89.99% |
10 | | 4 years | | 6 years | | 90-100% |
81
| | | | | | |
Rate of Reduced Tax | | Reduced Tax Period | | Tax Exemption Period | | Percent of Foreign Ownership |
| |
| |
| |
|
| | | | | | |
25 | | 5 years | | 2 years | | 0-25% |
25 | | 8 years | | 2 years | | 25-48.99% |
20 | | 8 years | | 2 years | | 49-73.99% |
15 | | 8 years | | 2 years | | 74-89.99% |
10 | | 8 years | | 2 years | | 90-100% |
| | |
| · | The twelve years limitation period for reduced tax rate of 15% on dividend from the approved enterprise will not apply. |
Subject to applicable provisions concerning income under the alternative package of benefits, dividends paid by a company are considered to be attributable to income received from the entire company and the company’s effective tax rate is the result of a weighted average of the various applicable tax rates, excluding any tax-exempt income. Under the Investments Law, a company that has elected the alternative package of benefits is not obliged to distribute retained profits, and may generally decide from which year’s profits to declare dividends.
We currently intend to reinvest any income derived from our Approved Enterprise program and not to distribute such income as a dividend. As of December 31, 2007, we did not generate income under the provision of the new law.
Tax Benefits under the 2005 Amendment
A recent amendment to the Investment Law, generally referred as the 2005 Amendment, effective as of April 1, 2005 has significantly changed the provisions of the Investments Law. The amendment includes revisions to the criteria for investments qualified to receive tax benefits as an Approved Enterprise. The 2005 Amendment applies to new investment programs and investment programs commencing after 2004, and does not apply to investment programs approved prior to December 31, 2004, and therefore to benefits included in any certificate of approval that was granted before the 2005 Amendment came into effect, which will remain subject to the provisions of the Investments Law as they were on the date of such approval.
However, a company that was granted benefits according to Section 51 of the Investments Law (prior the 2005 Amendment) will not be allowed to choose new tax year as a “Year of Election,” referred to below, under the 2005 Amendment, for a period of three years from the company’s previous Commencement Year (referred to below) under the old Investments Law.
The 2005 Amendment simplifies the approval process for the approved enterprise. According to the 2005 Amendment, only approved enterprises receiving cash grants require the approval of the Investment Center. The Investment Center will be entitled to approve such programs only until December 31, 2007.
82
As a result of the 2005 Amendment, it is no longer necessary for a company to acquire Approved Enterprise status in order to receive the tax benefits previously available under the Alternative Route, and therefore such companies need not apply to the Investment Center for this purpose. Rather, a company may claim the tax benefits offered by the Investment Law directly in its tax returns or by notifying the Israeli Tax Authority within twelve months of the end of that year, provided that its facilities meet the criteria for tax benefits set out by the 2005 Amendment. Such enterprise is referred to as the Benefited Enterprise. Companies are also granted a right to approach the Israeli Tax Authority for a pre-ruling regarding their eligibility for benefits under the 2005 Amendment. The 2005 Amendment includes provisions attempting to ensure that a company will not enjoy both Government grants and tax benefits for the same investment program.
Tax benefits are available under the 2005 Amendment to production facilities (or other eligible facilities), which are generally required to derive more than 25% of their business income from export. In order to receive the tax benefits, the 2005 Amendment states that a company must make an investment in the Benefited Enterprise exceeding a certain percentage or a minimum amount specified in the Investments Law. Such investment may be made over a period of no more than three years ending at the end of the year in which the company requested to have the tax benefits apply to the Benefited Enterprise, or the Year of Election. Where the company requests to have the tax benefits apply to an expansion of existing facilities, then only the expansion will be considered a Benefited Enterprise and the company’s effective tax rate will be the result of a weighted average of the applicable rates. In this case, the minimum investment required in order to qualify as a Benefited Enterprise is required to exceed a certain percentage or a minimum amount of the company’s production assets at the end of the year before the expansion.
The duration of tax benefits is subject to a limitation of the earlier of seven to ten years from the Commencement Year, or twelve years from the first day of the Year of Election. The Commencement Year is defined as the later of (a) the first tax year in which a company had derived income for tax purposes from the Beneficiary Enterprise or (b) the year in which a company requested to have the tax benefits apply to the Beneficiary Enterprise – Year of Election. The tax benefits granted to a Benefited Enterprise are determined, as applicable to its geographic location within Israel, according to one of the following new tax routes, which may be applicable to us:
| | |
| · | Similar to the currently available alternative route, exemption from corporate tax on undistributed income for a period of two to ten years, depending on the geographic location of the Benefited Enterprise within Israel, and a reduced corporate tax rate of 10% to 25% for the remainder of the benefits period, depending on the level of foreign investment in each year. Benefits may be granted for a term of seven to ten years, depending on the level of foreign investment in the company. If the company pays a dividend out of income derived from the Benefited Enterprise during the tax exemption period, such income will be subject to corporate tax at the applicable rate (10%-25%) in respect of the gross amount of the dividend that we may be distributed. The company is required to withhold tax at the source at a rate of 15% from any dividends distributed from income derived from the Benefited Enterprise; and |
| | |
| · | A special tax route, which enables companies owning facilities in certain geographical locations in Israel to pay corporate tax at the rate of 11.5% on income of the Benefited Enterprise. The benefits period is ten years. Upon payment of dividends, the company is required to withhold tax at source at a rate of 15% for Israeli residents and at a rate of 4% for foreign residents. |
83
Generally, a company that is Abundant in Foreign Investment (owned by at least 74% foreign shareholders and has undertaken to invest a minimum sum of $20 million in the Beneficiary Enterprise as defined in the Investments Law) is entitled to an extension of the benefits period by an additional five years, depending on the rate of its income that is derived in foreign currency.
The 2005 Amendment changes the definition of “foreign investment” in the Investments Law so that the definition now requires a minimal investment of NIS5 million by foreign investors. Furthermore, such definition now also includes the purchase of shares of a company from another shareholder, provided that the company’s outstanding and paid-up share capital exceeds NIS5 million. Such changes to the aforementioned definition will take effect retroactively from 2003.
The 2005 Amendment will apply to approved enterprise programs in which the year of election under the Investments Law is 2004 or later, unless such programs received approval from the Investment Center on or prior to December 31, 2004, in which case the 2005 Amendment provides that terms and benefits included in any certificate of approval already granted will remain subject to the provisions of the law as they were on the date of such approval.
As a result of the 2005 Amendment, tax-exempt income generated under the provisions of the Investments Law, as amended, will subject us to taxes upon distribution or liquidation and we may be required to record deferred tax liability with respect to such tax-exempt income.
A substantial portion of our taxable operating income is derived from our approved enterprise program and we expect that a substantial portion of any taxable operating income that we may realize in the future will be also derived from such program.
Capital Gains Tax on Sales of Our Ordinary Shares
Israeli law generally imposes a capital gains tax on the sale of any capital assets by residents of Israel, as defined for Israeli tax purposes, and on the sale of assets located in Israel, including shares in Israeli companies, by both residents and non-residents of Israel, unless a specific exemption is available or unless a tax treaty between Israel and the shareholder’s country of residence provides otherwise. The law distinguishes between real gain and inflationary surplus. The inflationary surplus is a portion of the total capital gain which is equivalent to the increase of the relevant asset’s purchase price which is attributable to the increase in the Israeli consumer price index or, in certain circumstances, a foreign currency exchange rate, between the date of purchase and the date of sale. The real gain is the excess of the total capital gain over the inflationary surplus.
Generally, until the 2006 tax year, capital gains tax was imposed on Israeli resident individuals at a rate of 15% on real gains derived on or after January 1, 2003, from the sale of shares in, among others, Israeli companies publicly traded on NASDAQ or on a recognized stock exchange or regulated market in a country that has a treaty for the prevention of double taxation with Israel. This tax rate was contingent upon the shareholder not claiming a deduction for financing expenses in connection with such shares (in which case the gain was generally be taxed at a rate of 25%), and did not apply to: (i) the sale of shares to a relative (as defined in the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance); (ii) the sale of shares by dealers in securities; (iii) the sale of shares by shareholders that report in accordance with the Inflationary Adjustments Law (that were taxed at corporate tax rates for corporations and at marginal tax rates for individuals); or (iv)the sale of shares by shareholders who acquired their shares prior to an initial public offering (that may be subject to a different tax arrangement).
84
As of January 1, 2006, the tax rate applicable to capital gains derived from the sale of shares, whether or not listed on a stock market, is 20% for Israeli individuals, unless such shareholder claims a deduction for financing expenses in connection with such shares, in which case the gain will generally be taxed at a rate of 25%. Additionally, if such shareholder is considered a “material shareholder” at any time during the twelve-month period preceding such sale, that is, such shareholder holds directly or indirectly, including with others, at least 10% of any means of control in the company, the tax rate shall be 25%. Israeli companies are subject to the corporate tax rate on capital gains derived from the sale of shares, unless such companies were not subject to the Inflationary Adjustments Law (or certain regulations) at the time of publication of the aforementioned amendment to the Tax Ordinance that came into effect on January 1, 2006, in which case the applicable tax rate is 25%. However, the foregoing tax rates do not apply to: (i) dealers in securities; and (ii) shareholders who acquired their shares prior to an initial public offering (that may be subject to a different tax arrangement).
The tax basis of shares acquired prior to January 1, 2003 will be determined in accordance with the average closing share price in the three trading days preceding January 1, 2003. However, a request may be made to the tax authorities to consider the actual adjusted cost of the shares as the tax basis if it is higher than such average price.
Non-Israeli residents are exempt from Israeli capital gains tax on any gains derived from the sale of shares of Israeli companies publicly traded on a recognized stock exchange or regulated market outside of Israel, provided, however, that such capital gains are not derived from a permanent establishment in Israel, such shareholders are not subject to the Inflationary Adjustments Law, and such shareholders did not acquire their shares prior to an initial public offering. However, non-Israeli corporations will not be entitled to such exemption if an Israeli resident (i) has a controlling interest of 25% or more in such non-Israeli corporation, or (ii) is the beneficiary or is entitled to 25% or more of the revenues or profits of such non-Israeli corporation, whether directly or indirectly.
In some instances where our shareholders may be liable to Israeli tax on the sale of their ordinary shares, the payment of the consideration may be subject to the withholding of Israeli tax at the source.
Pursuant to the Convention Between the government of the United States of America and the government of Israel with Respect to Taxes on Income, as amended, generally referred to as the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, the sale, exchange or disposition of ordinary shares by a person who (i) holds the ordinary shares as a capital asset, (ii) qualifies as a resident of the United States within the meaning of the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty and (iii) is entitled to claim the benefits afforded to such person by the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, generally, will not be subject to the Israeli capital gains tax. Such exemption will not apply if (a) such Treaty U.S. Resident holds, directly or indirectly, shares representing 10% or more of our voting power during any part of the twelve-month period preceding such sale, exchange or disposition, subject to certain conditions, or (b) the capital gains from such sale, exchange or disposition can be allocated to a permanent establishment in Israel. In such case, the sale, exchange or disposition of ordinary shares would be subject to Israeli tax, to the extent applicable; however, under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, such Treaty U.S. Resident would be permitted to claim a credit for such taxes against the U.S. federal income tax imposed with respect to such sale, exchange or disposition, subject to the limitations in U.S. laws applicable to foreign tax credits. The U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty does not relate to U.S. state or local taxes.
85
Taxation of Non-Resident Holders of Shares
Non-residents of Israel are subject to income tax on income accrued or derived from sources in Israel. Such sources of income include passive income such as dividends, royalties and interest, as well as non-passive income from services rendered in Israel. As of 2006, distributions of dividends other than bonus shares, or stock dividends, income tax is withheld at the source at the rate of 20%, 15% for dividends generated by an approved enterprise (if the dividend is distributed during the tax exemption period or within 12 years thereafter. In the event, however, that the company is qualifies as a Foreign Investors’ Company, there is no such time limitation, unless a different rate is provided in a treaty between Israel and the shareholder’s country of residence.
Under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, the maximum tax on dividends paid to a holder of ordinary shares who is a Treaty U.S. Resident is 20%. However, under the Investments Law, dividends generated by an Approved Enterprise (or Benefited Enterprise) are taxed at the rate of 15%. Furthermore, dividends not generated by an Approved Enterprise (or Benefited Enterprise) paid to a U.S. corporation holding at least 10% of our issued voting power during the part of the tax year which precedes the date of payment of the dividend and during the whole of its prior tax year, are generally taxed at a rate of 12.5%.
United States Federal Income Taxation
The following is a description of the material United States federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares. This description addresses only the United States federal income tax considerations of holders that are initial purchasers of our ordinary shares pursuant to the offering and that will hold such ordinary shares as capital assets. This description does not address tax considerations applicable to holders that may be subject to special tax rules, including:
| | |
| · | financial institutions or insurance companies; |
| | |
| · | real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies or grantor trusts; |
| | |
| · | dealers or traders in securities or currencies; |
| | |
| · | tax-exempt entities; |
| | |
| · | certain former citizens or long-term residents of the United States; |
| | |
| · | persons that will hold our shares through a partnership or other pass-through entity; |
| | |
| · | persons that received our shares as compensation for the performance of services; |
| | |
| · | persons that will hold our shares as part of a “hedging” or “conversion” transaction or as a position in a “straddle” for United States federal income tax purposes; |
| | |
| · | persons whose “functional currency” is not the United States dollar;or |
| | |
| · | holders that own directly, indirectly or through attribution 10.0% or more of the voting power or value of our shares. |
86
Moreover, this description does not address the United States federal estate and gift or alternative minimum tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares.
This description is based on the Code, existing, proposed and temporary United States Treasury Regulations and judicial and administrative interpretations thereof, in each case as in effect and available on the date hereof. All of the foregoing are subject to change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the tax consequences described below.
For purposes of this description, a “U.S.Holder” is a beneficial owner of our ordinary shares that, for United States federal income tax purposes, is:
| | |
| · | a citizen or resident of the United States; |
| | |
| · | corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S.federal income tax purposes, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof, including the District of Columbia; |
| | |
| · | an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source; or |
| | |
| · | a trust if such trust has validly elected to be treated as a United States person for United States federal income tax purposes or if (1)a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over its administration and (2)one or more United States persons have the authority to control all of the substantial decisions of such trust. |
A “Non-U.S.Holder” is a beneficial owner of our ordinary shares that is neither a U.S.Holder nor a partnership (or other entity treated as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes).
If a partnership (or any other entity treated as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes) holds our ordinary shares, the tax treatment of a partner in such partnership will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Such a partner or partnership should consult its tax advisor as to its tax consequences.
You should consult your tax advisor with respect to the United States federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences of acquiring, owning and disposing of our ordinary shares.
Distributions
Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations,” if you are a U.S.Holder, for United States federal income tax purposes, the gross amount of any distribution made to you, with respect to your ordinary shares before reduction for any Israeli taxes withheld therefrom, other than certain distributions, if any, of our ordinary shares distribute pro rata to all our shareholders, will be includible in your income as dividend income to the extent such distribution is paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits as determined under United States federal income tax principles. Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations,” non-corporate U.S.Holders may qualify for the lower rates of taxation with respect to dividends on ordinary shares applicable to long-term capital gains (that is, gains from the sale of capital assets held for more than one year) with respect to taxable years beginning on or before December31, 2010, provided that certain conditions are met, including certain holding period requirements and the absence of certain risk reduction transactions. However, such dividends will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction generally allowed to corporate U.S.Holders. Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations,” to the extent, if any, that the amount of any distribution by us exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits as determined under United States federal income tax principles, it will be treated first as a tax-free return of your adjusted tax basis in your ordinary shares and thereafter as capital gain. We do not expect to maintain calculations of our earnings and profits under United States federal income tax principles and, therefore, if you are a U.S. Holder you should expect that the entire amount of any distribution generally will be reported as dividend income to you.
87
If you are a U.S.Holder, dividends paid to you with respect to your ordinary shares will be treated as foreign source income, which may be relevant in calculating your foreign tax credit limitation. Subject to certain conditions and limitations, Israeli tax withheld on dividends may be deducted from your taxable income or credited against your United States federal income tax liability. The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific classes of income. For this purpose, dividends that we distribute generally should constitute “passive category income,” or, in the case of certain U.S. Holders, “general category income.” A foreign tax credit for foreign taxes imposed on distributions may be denied when you do not satisfy certain minimum holding period requirements. The rules relating to the determination of the foreign tax credit are complex, and you should consult your personal tax advisors to determine whether and to what extent you would be entitled to this credit.
Subject to the discussion below under “Backup Withholding Tax and Information Reporting Requirements,” if you are a Non-U.S.Holder, you generally will not be subject to United States federal income or withholding tax on dividends received by you on your ordinary shares, unless you conduct a trade or business in the United States and such income is effectively connected with that trade or business.
Sales Exchange or other Disposition of Ordinary Shares
Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations,” if you are a U.S.Holder, you generally will recognize gain or loss on the sale, exchange or other disposition of your ordinary shares equal to the difference between the amount realized on such sale, exchange or other disposition and your adjusted tax basis in your ordinary shares. Such gain or loss will be capital gain or loss. If you are a non corporate U.S.Holder, capital gain from the sale, exchange or other disposition of ordinary shares is eligible for the preferential rate of taxation applicable to long-term capital gains, with respect to taxable years beginning on or before December31, 2010, if your holding period for such ordinary shares exceeds one year (that is, such gain is long-term capital gain). Gain or loss, if any, recognized by you generally will be treated as United States source income or loss for United States foreign tax credit purposes. The deductibility of capital losses for U.S.federal income tax purposes is subject to limitations.
88
Subject to the discussion below under “Backup Withholding Tax and Information Reporting Requirements,” if you are a Non-U.S.Holder, you generally will not be subject to United States federal income or withholding tax on any gain realized on the sale or exchange of such ordinary shares unless:
| | |
| · | such gain is effectively connected with your conduct of a trade or business in the United States; or |
| | |
| · | you are an individual and have been present in the United States for 183days or more in the taxable year of such sale or exchange and certain other conditions are met. |
Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations
A non-U.S. corporation will be classified as a “passive foreign investment company,” or a PFIC, for United States federal income tax purposes in any taxable year in which, after applying certain look-through rules, either:
| | |
| · | at least 75 percent of its gross income is “passive income”; or |
| | |
| · | at least 50 percent of the average value of its gross assets (based on the quarterly value of such gross assets) is attributable to assets that produce “passive income” or are held for the production of passive income. |
Passive income for this purpose generally includes dividends, interest, royalties, rents, gains from commodities and securities transactions, the excess of gains over losses from the disposition of assets which produce passive income, and includes amounts derived by reason of the temporary investment of funds raised in offerings of our ordinary shares.
Based on our estimated gross income, the average value of our gross assets (the latter determined by reference to the market value of our shares and valuing our intangible assets using the methods prescribed for publicly traded corporations) and the nature of our business, we believe that we would not be classified as a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2007. However, based on the value of our gross assets determined by reference to the market value of our shares at the end of the first quarter of the 2008 taxable year, there is a substantial risk that we will be classified as a PFIC for the 2008 taxable year. However, because PFIC status is based on our income, assets and activities for the entire taxable year, it is not possible to determine whether we will have become a PFIC for the 2008 taxable year until after the close of the year. Moreover, no rulings have been or will be sought from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) with respect to our PFIC status, and no assurance can be given that the IRS or the courts would not reach a contrary conclusion. Our PFIC status should be determined annually based on tests which are factual in nature and our status in future years will depend on our income, assets and activities in those years, although you will be treated as continuing to own an interest in a PFIC if we are a PFIC in any year while you own your shares unless you make certain elections as described further below. While we intend to manage our business so as to avoid PFIC status, to the extent consistent with our other business goals, we cannot predict whether our business plans will allow us to avoid PFIC status determination. Because the market price of our ordinary shares is likely to fluctuate and the market price of the shares of technology companies has been especially volatile, and because that market price may affect the determination of whether we will be considered a PFIC, we cannot assure you that we will not be considered a PFIC for any taxable year. If we were a PFIC, you generally would be subject to imputed interest charges and other disadvantageous tax treatment (including the denial of the taxation of such dividends at the lower rates applicable to long-term capital gains, as discussed above under “Distributions”) with respect to any gain from the sale or exchange of, and excess distributions with respect to, the ordinary shares.
89
Under the PFIC rules, unless a U.S. Holder makes one of the elections described in the next paragraphs, a special tax regime will apply to both (a) any “excess distribution” by us (generally, the U.S. Holder’s ratable portion of distributions in any year which are greater than 125% of the average annual distribution received by such U.S. Holder in the shorter of the three preceding years or the U.S. Holder’s holding period) and (b) any gain realized on the sale or other disposition of the ordinary shares. Under this regime, any excess distribution and realized gain will be treated as ordinary income and will be subject to tax as if (a) the excess distribution or gain had been realized ratably over the U.S. Holder’s holding period, (b) the amount deemed realized had been subject to tax in each year of that holding period, and (c) the interest charge generally applicable to underpayments of tax had been imposed on the taxes deemed to have been payable in those years. In addition, dividend distributions made to you will not qualify for the lower rates of taxation applicable to long term capital gains discussed above under “Distributions.”
Certain elections are available to U.S. Holders of shares that may serve to alleviate some of the adverse tax consequences of PFIC status. If we agreed to provide the necessary information, you could avoid the interest charge imposed by the PFIC rules by making a qualified electing fund, or a QEF election, which election may be made retroactively under certain circumstances, in which case you generally would be required to include in income on a current basis your pro rata share of our ordinary earnings as ordinary income and your pro rata share of our net capital gains as long-term capital gain. We do not expect to provide to U.S. Holders the information needed to report income and gain pursuant to a QEF election, and we make no undertaking to provide such information in the event that we are a PFIC.
Under an alternative tax regime, you may also avoid certain adverse tax consequences relating to PFIC status discussed above by making a mark-to-market election with respect to your ordinary shares annually, provided that the shares are “marketable.” Shares will be marketable if they are regularly traded on certain U.S. stock exchanges (including NASDAQ) or on certain non-U.S. stock exchanges. For these purposes, the shares will generally be considered regularly traded during any calendar year during which they are traded, other than in negligible quantities, on at least fifteen days during each calendar quarter.
If you choose to make a mark-to-market election, you would recognize as ordinary income or loss each year an amount equal to the difference as of the close of the taxable year between the fair market value of the PFIC shares and your adjusted tax basis in the PFIC shares. Losses would be allowed only to the extent of net mark-to-market gain previously included by you under the election for prior taxable years. If the mark-to-market election were made, then the PFIC rules set forth above relating to excess distributions and realized gains would not apply for periods covered by the election. If you make a mark-to-market election after the beginning of your holding period of our ordinary shares, you would be subject to interest charges with respect to the inclusion of ordinary income attributable to the period before the effective date of such election.
90
Under certain circumstances, ordinary shares owned by a Non-U.S. Holder may be attributed to a U.S. person owning an interest, directly or indirectly, in the Non-U.S. Holder. In this event, distributions and other transactions in respect of such ordinary shares may be treated as excess distributions with respect to such U.S. person, and a QEF election may be made by such U.S. person with respect to its indirect interest in us, subject to the discussion in the preceding paragraphs.
We may invest in stock of non-U.S. corporations that are PFICs. In such a case, provided that we are classified as a PFIC, a U.S. Holder would be treated as owning its pro rata share of the stock of the PFIC owned by us. Such a U.S. Holder would be subject to the rules generally applicable to shareholders of PFICs discussed above with respect to distributions received by us from such a PFIC and dispositions by us of the stock of such a PFIC (even though the U.S. Holder may not have received the proceeds of such distribution or disposition). Assuming we receive the necessary information from the PFIC in which we own stock, certain U.S. Holders may make the QEF election discussed above with respect to the stock of the PFIC owned by us, with the consequences discussed above. However, no assurance can be given that we will be able to provide U.S. Holders with such information.
If we were a PFIC, a holder of ordinary shares that is a U.S. Holder must file United States Internal Revenue Service Form 8621 for each tax year in which the U.S. Holder owns the ordinary shares.
You should consult your own tax advisor regarding our potential status as a PFIC and the tax consequences that would arise if we were treated as a PFIC.
Backup Withholding Tax and Information Reporting Requirements
United States backup withholding tax and information reporting requirements generally apply to certain payments to certain non-corporate holders of stock. Information reporting generally will apply to payments of dividends on, and to proceeds from the sale or redemption of, ordinary shares made within the United States, or by a United States payor or United States middleman, to a holder of ordinary shares, other than an exempt recipient (including a corporation, a payee that is not a United States person that provides an appropriate certification and certain other persons). A payor will be required to withhold backup withholding tax from any payments of dividends on, or the proceeds from the sale or redemption of, ordinary shares within the United States, or by a United States payor or United States middleman, to a holder, other than an exempt recipient, if such holder fails to furnish its correct taxpayer identification number or otherwise fails to comply with, or establish an exemption from, such backup withholding tax requirements. The backup withholding tax rate is 28.0% for years through 2010.
Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a refund or credit against the beneficial owner’s United States federal income tax liability, if any, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS.
The above description is not intended to constitute a complete analysis of all tax consequences relating to acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares. You should consult your tax advisor concerning the tax consequences of your particular situation.
| |
F. | Dividends and Paying Agents |
Not applicable.
91
Not applicable.
We are currently subject to the information and periodic reporting requirements of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, generally referred to as the Exchange Act, and file periodic reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission through its electronic data gathering, analysis and retrieval (EDGAR) system. Our securities filings, including this annual report and the exhibits thereto, are available for inspection and copying at the public reference facilities of the Securities and Exchange Commission located at Room 1580, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may also obtain copies of the documents at prescribed rates by writing to the Public Reference Section of the Securities and Exchange Commission at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549. Please call the Securities and Exchange Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room. The Commission also maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov from which certain filings may be accessed.
As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act relating to the furnishing and content of proxy statements, and our officers, directors and principal shareholders will be exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act. In addition, we are not required under the Exchange Act to file periodic reports and financial statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission as frequently or as promptly as United States companies whose securities are registered under the Exchange Act.
Not applicable.
ITEM 11: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Market risk is the risk of loss related to changes in market prices, including interest rates and foreign exchange rates, of financial instruments that may adversely impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Risk of Interest Rate Fluctuation
We do not have any long-term borrowings. Our investments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and interest bearing, investment-grade investments in marketable securities. These marketable securities currently consist of corporate debt securities, money market funds and auction-rate securities. See “ITEM 3: Key Information—Risk Factors—We have invested a portion of our cash in auction-rate securities, which subjects us to liquidity and investment risk. Due to recent uncertainties in the capital markets regarding auction-rate securities, we recorded impairment charges in the fourth quarter of 2007 and the first quarter of 2008, and, if the fair value of these investments were to decline further, we could be required to record further impairment charges related to these investments” and “ITEM 5: Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Operating Results—Overview—Financial income (expenses), net” for further information regarding our investments in auction rate securities. The primary objective of our investment activities is to preserve principal while maximizing the income that we receive from our investments without significantly increasing risk and loss. Our investments are exposed to market risk due to fluctuation in interest rates, which may affect our interest income and the fair market value of our investments. We manage this exposure by performing ongoing evaluations of our investments. Due to the short and medium-term maturities of our investments to date, their carrying value approximates the fair value. We generally hold investments to maturity in order to limit our exposure to interest rate fluctuations.
92
Foreign Currency Exchange Risk
Our foreign currency exposures give rise to market risk associated with exchange rate movements of the U.S.dollar, our functional and reporting currency, mainly against the NIS. In 2007, we derived our revenues principally in U.S.dollars. Although a substantial part of our expenses were denominated in U.S.dollars, a significant portion of our expenses were denominated in shekels and to a lesser extent in euros and other Asian currencies. Our shekel-denominated expenses consist principally of salaries and related personnel expenses.
We anticipate that a material portion of our expenses will continue to be denominated in shekels. If the U.S.dollar continues to weaken against the shekel or other currencies we are exposed to, there will be a negative impact on our profit margins.
Impact of Inflation
We believe that the rate of inflation in Israel has had a minor effect on our business to date. However, our U.S. dollar costs in Israel will increase if inflation in Israel exceeds the devaluation of the shekel against the U.S. dollar or if the timing of such devaluation lags behind inflation in Israel.
The following table presents information about the rate of inflation in Israel, the rate of devaluation of the shekel against the U.S. dollar and the rate of inflation in Israel adjusted for such devaluation:
| | | | | | |
Year ended December 31, | | Israeli inflation rate % | | Israeli devaluation (appreciation) rate % | | Israeli inflation adjusted for devaluation % |
| |
| |
| |
|
| | | | | | |
2005 | | 2.4 | | 6.7 | | (4.3) |
2006 | | (0.1) | | (8.2) | | 8.1 |
2007 | | 3.4 | | (9.0) | | 12.4 |
We cannot assure you that we will not be materially and adversely affected in the future if inflation in Israel exceeds the devaluation of the shekel against the dollar or if the timing of the devaluation lags behind inflation in Israel.
ITEM 12: Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities
Not applicable.
93
PART II
ITEM 13: Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
None.
ITEM 14: Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceed
| |
A. | Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders |
| |
| None. |
| |
E. | Use of Proceeds |
The effective date of the registration statement (file no. 333-138313) for our initial public offering of ordinary shares, par value NIS 0.10, was November 15, 2006. The offering commenced on November 15, 2006 and terminated after the sale of all the securities registered. Lehman Brothers Inc. acted as the sole book-running manager for the offering, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. acted as co-lead manager and, CIBC World Markets Corp. and RBC Capital Markets Corporation acted as co-managers. We registered 6,500,000 ordinary shares in the offering. We sold 6,500,000 ordinary shares at an aggregate offering price of $78 million at a price per share of $12.00. Under the terms of the offering, we incurred aggregate underwriting discounts of $5.5 million. We also incurred expenses of $2 million in connection with the offering. The net proceeds that we received as a result of the offering were $70.5 million.
From the effective date of the registration statement and until December 31, 2007, the net proceeds had been invested in cash equivalents, marketable securities, capital expenditure and other corporate purposes.
None of the net proceeds of the offering was paid directly or indirectly to any director, officer, general partner of ours or to their associates, persons owning ten percent or more of any class of our equity securities, or to any of our affiliates.
ITEM 15: Controls and Procedures
(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated 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. Based on such evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of December 31, 2007, we have in place effective controls and procedures designed to ensure that information disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act and the rules thereunder, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.
94
(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 as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Our internal control over financial reporting is a process 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:
| | |
| · | pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; |
| | |
| · | 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; |
| | |
| · | 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. |
Our management recognizes that there are inherent limitations in the effectiveness of any system of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or override of internal control. Accordingly, even effective internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation, and may not prevent or detect all misstatements. Further, because of changes in conditions, the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting may vary over time.
Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007. Our management has concluded, based on its assessment, that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2007.
Our financial statements have been audited by Kost, Forer, Gabbay & Kasierer (a Member of Ernst & Young Global), an independent registered public accounting firm.
(c) Attestation Report of Registered Public Accounting Firm: See the report of Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer (a Member of Ernst & Young Global), an independent registered public accounting firm, included under “ITEM 18: Financial Statements” on page F-3.
(d) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. During the period covered by this report, no material changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) have occurred that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 16: Reserved
ITEM 16A: Audit Committee Financial Expert
The board of directors has determined that Nurit Benjamini is the financial expert serving on its audit committee and that Ms. Benjamini is independent under the rules of The Nasdaq Stock Market.
95
ITEM 16B: Code of Ethics
We have adopted a code of ethics applicable to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, controller and persons performing similar functions. This code has been posted on our website, www.allot.com.
ITEM 16C: Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Fees paid to the Auditors
The following table sets forth, for each of the years indicated, the fees billed by our independent registered public accounting firm.
| | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December, 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| | (in thousands of U.S. dollars) | |
| | | | | | | |
Audit Fees(1) | | $ | 426 | | $ | 265 | |
Audit-Related Fees(2) | | | – | | | 15 | |
Tax Fees(3) | | | 11 | | | 29 | |
All Other Fees(4) | | | 5 | | | 25 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Total | | $ | 442 | | $ | 334 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
(1) | “Audit fees” include fees for services performed by our independent public accounting firm in connection with our annual audit for 2007 (including the audit required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act), certain procedures regarding our quarterly financial results submitted on Form 6-K and consultation concerning financial accounting and reporting standards. |
(2) | “Audit-Related fees” include fees for the performance of due diligence investigations. |
(3) | “Tax fees” include fees for professional services rendered by our independent registered public accounting firm for tax compliance and tax advice on actual or contemplated transactions. |
(4) | “Other fees” include fees for services rendered by our independent registered public accounting firm with respect to government incentives. |
Audit Committee’s Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
Our audit committee pre-approved all audit and non-audit services provided to us and to our subsidiaries during the periods listed above.
ITEM 16D: Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
Not applicable.
ITEM 16E: Purchase of Equity Securities by the Company and Affiliated Purchasers
Not applicable.
96
PART III
ITEM 17: Financial Statements
Not applicable.
ITEM 18: Financial Statements
See Financial Statements included at the end of this report.
ITEM 19: Exhibits
See exhibit index incorporated herein by reference.
97
SIGNATURES
The registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| | |
| Allot Communications Ltd. |
| | |
| By: | /s/ Rami Hadar |
| |
|
| | Rami Hadar |
| | Chief Executive Officer and President |
Dated: June 27, 2008
98
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 20-F
INDEX OF EXHIBITS
| | |
Number | | Description |
| |
|
| | |
1.1 | | Articles of Association of the Registrant (1) |
| | |
1.2 | | Certificate of Name Change (1) |
| | |
2.1 | | Specimen share certificate (1) |
| | |
2.2 | | Second Amended and Restated Investors Rights Agreement, dated October 26, 2006, by and among the parties thereto and the Registrant (1) |
| | |
3.1 | | Escrow Agreement, dated January 28, 1998 by and among Yigal Jacoby, Ravillan Benzur & Co., Law Offices and the Registrant; Escrow Letter of Resignation and Appointment, dated January 31, 2004 by and among Yigal Jacoby, Yolovelsky, Dinstein, Sneh & Co. and the Registrant; and Assignment of Escrow Agreement, dated May 21, 2006 by and among Yodan Trust Company Ltd., Oro Trust Company Ltd., Yigal Jacoby and the Registrant (1) |
| | |
3.2 | | Addendum, dated October 26, 2006, to Escrow Agreement, dated January 28, 1998, by and between Yigal Jacoby and the Registrant (1) |
| | |
4.1 | | Share Purchase Agreement, dated May 18, 2006, by and among the parties thereto and the Registrant (1) |
| | |
4.2 | | Non-Competition Agreement, dated August 24, 2004, by and among Odem Rotem Holdings Ltd., Yigal Jacoby and the Registrant (1) |
| | |
4.3 | | Experteam Training Services Proposal, dated as of March 2006, by Experteam to the Registrant (1) |
| | |
4.4 | | Warrant to Purchase Series C-1 Shares, dated November 27, 2001, by and between the Company and Yigal Jacoby (1) |
| | |
4.5 | | Manufacturing Agreement, dated September 4, 2002, by and between R.H. Electronics Ltd. and the Registrant* (1) |
| | |
4.6 | | Non-Stabilized Lease Agreement, dated February 13, 2006, by and among, Aderet Hod Hasharon Ltd., Miritz, Inc., Leah and Israel Ruben Assets Ltd., Tamar and Moshe Cohen Assets Ltd., Drish Assets Ltd., S. L. A. A. Assets and Consulting Ltd., Iris Katz Ltd., Y. A. Groder Investments Ltd., Ginotel Hod Hasharon 2000 Ltd. and Allot Communications Ltd. (1) |
| | |
4.7 | | Key Employees of Subsidiaries and Consultants Share Incentive Plan (1997) (1) |
| | |
4.8 | | Key Employees Share Incentive Plan (1997) (1) |
99
| | |
Number | | Description |
| |
|
| | |
4.9 | | Key Employees Share Incentive Plan (2003) (1) |
| | |
4.10 | | 2006 Incentive Compensation Plan (1) |
| | |
4.11 | | Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 19, 2007, by and between Flextronics (Israel) Ltd. and the Registrant* |
| | |
4.12 | | Agreement relating to the sale and purchase of the Business and Assets dated January 1, 2008 by and between Esphion Limited and the Registrant |
| | |
8.1 | | List of Subsidiaries of the Registrant |
| | |
11.1 | | Code of Ethics (2) |
| | |
12.1 | | Certification of Principal Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) (Section 302 Certifications) |
| | |
12.2 | | Certification of Principal Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) (Section 302 Certifications) |
| | |
13.1 | | Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) and Rule 15d-14(b) (Section 906 Certifications) (3) |
| | |
14.1 | | Consent of Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer |
| |
(1) | Previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 31, 2006 pursuant to a registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138313) and incorporated by reference herein. |
| |
(2) | Previously filled with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28, 2007 on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2006 and incorporated by reference herein. |
| |
(3) | This document is being furnished in accordance with SEC Release Nos. 33-8212 and 34-47551. |
| |
* | Portions of this exhibit were omitted and have been filed separately with the Secretary of the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Registrant’s application requesting confidential treatment under Rule 24b-2 of the Exchange Act. |
100
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2007
U.S. DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS
INDEX
| |
|
Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer 3 Aminadav St. Tel-Aviv 67067, Israel
Tel: 972 (3)6232525 Fax: 972 (3)5622555 www.ey.com/il
|
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Allot Communications Ltd. (“the Company”) and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007. These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. 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, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
As explained in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, on January 1, 2006 the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(revised 2004), “Share Based Payment”.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated June 26, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
| |
| /s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER |
Tel-Aviv, Israel | KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER |
June 26, 2008 | A Member of Ernst & Young Global |
F – 2
| |
|
Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer 3 Aminadav St. Tel-Aviv 67067, Israel
Tel: 972 (3)6232525 Fax: 972 (3)5622555 www.ey.com/il
|
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
We have audited Allot Communications Ltd and its subsidiaries’ (the “Company’s”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (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 receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
F – 3
| |
|
Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer 3 Aminadav St. Tel-Aviv 67067, Israel
Tel: 972 (3)6232525 Fax: 972 (3)5622555 www.ey.com/il
|
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007 and our report dated June 26, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
| |
| /s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER |
Tel-Aviv, Israel | KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER |
June 26, 2008 | A Member of Ernst & Young Global |
F – 4
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands |
| | | | | | | |
| | December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
ASSETS | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
CURRENT ASSETS: | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | $ | 7,117 | | $ | 28,101 | |
Marketable securities | | | 70,364 | | | 7,243 | |
Short-term bank deposit | | | 59 | | | 62 | |
Trade receivables (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $ 0 and $ 49 at December 31, 2006 and 2007, respectively) | | | 4,178 | | | 6,122 | |
Other receivables and prepaid expenses | | | 1,961 | | | 3,799 | |
Inventories | | | 3,337 | | | 4,789 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Total current assets | | | 87,016 | | | 50,116 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
LONG-TERM ASSETS: | | | | | | | |
Marketable securities | | | 5,750 | | | 35,371 | |
Severance pay fund | | | 2,648 | | | 3,302 | |
Deferred taxes | | | 291 | | | 264 | |
Other assets | | | 763 | | | 744 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Total long-term assets | | | 9,452 | | | 39,681 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET | | | 2,939 | | | 4,619 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET | | | 99 | | | 239 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 99,506 | | $ | 94,655 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F – 5
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | | | | | | |
| | December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | | | | | | | |
Short-term bank credit | | $ | 6 | | $ | - | |
Trade payables | | | 4,415 | | | 3,409 | |
Employees and payroll accruals | | | 2,610 | | | 3,590 | |
Deferred revenues | | | 2,580 | | | 3,968 | |
Other payables and accrued expenses | | | 2,223 | | | 1,924 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Total current liabilities | | | 11,834 | | | 12,891 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES: | | | | | | | |
Deferred revenues | | | 1,108 | | | 1,404 | |
Accrued severance pay | | | 2,377 | | | 3,175 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Total long-term liabilities | | | 3,485 | | | 4,579 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY: | | | | | | | |
Share capital - | | | | | | | |
Ordinary shares of NIS 0.1 par value - Authorized: 200,000,000 shares at December 31, 2007 and 2006; Issued: 22,254,728 and 21,232,290 shares at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively; Outstanding: 22,008,249 and 20,985,811 shares at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively | | | 456 | | | 480 | |
Additional paid-in capital | | | 121,069 | | | 123,913 | |
Deferred stock compensation | | | (34 | ) | | - | |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | | | (36 | ) | | - | |
Accumulated deficit | | | (37,268 | ) | | (47,208 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Total shareholders’ equity | | | 84,187 | | | 77,185 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity | | $ | 99,506 | | $ | 94,655 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F – 6
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
| |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Revenues: | | | | | | | | | | |
Products | | $ | 18,498 | | $ | 28,756 | | $ | 25,073 | |
Services | | | 4,474 | | | 5,388 | | | 7,429 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenues | | | 22,972 | | | 34,144 | | | 32,502 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of revenues: | | | | | | | | | | |
Products | | | 4,481 | | | 6,435 | | | 6,603 | |
Services | | | 938 | | | 1,162 | | | 1,416 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total cost of revenues | | | 5,419 | | | 7,597 | | | 8,019 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Gross profit | | | 17,553 | | | 26,547 | | | 24,483 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Operating expenses: | | | | | | | | | | |
Research and development, net | | | 5,925 | | | 7,529 | | | 9,384 | |
Sales and marketing | | | 11,887 | | | 15,457 | | | 18,081 | |
General and administrative | | | 2,380 | | | 3,464 | | | 5,583 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total operating expenses | | | 20,192 | | | 26,450 | | | 33,048 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Operating income (loss) | | | (2,639 | ) | | 97 | | | (8,565 | ) |
Financial and other income (expenses), net | | | 45 | | | 630 | | | (845 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Income (loss) before income tax expenses (benefit) | | | (2,594 | ) | | 727 | | | (9,410 | ) |
Income tax expenses (benefit) | | | (218 | ) | | 111 | | | 530 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) | | $ | (2,376 | ) | $ | 616 | | $ | (9,940 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Basic net earnings (loss) per share | | $ | (0.81 | ) | $ | 0.04 | | $ | (0.46 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Diluted net earnings (loss) per share | | $ | (0.81 | ) | $ | 0.04 | | $ | (0.46 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average number of shares used in computing basic net earnings (loss) per share | | | 2,943,500 | | | 14,402,338 | | | 21,525,822 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Weighted average number of shares used in computing diluted net earnings (loss) per share | | | 2,943,500 | | | 16,423,227 | | | 21,525,822 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F – 7
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share data |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Ordinary shares | | Convertible Preferred shares | | Additional paid-in capital | | Deferred stock compensation | | Accumulated other comprehensive loss | | Accumulated deficit | | Total | |
| |
| |
| | | | | | |
| | Shares | | Amount | | Shares | | Amount | | | | | | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at January 1, 2005 | | 2,447,568 | | $ | 29 | | 4,357,769 | | $ | 103 | | $ | 43,692 | | $ | (119 | ) | $ | (4 | ) | $ | (35,508 | ) | $ | 8,193 | |
Exercise of warrants and employee stock options | | 276,519 | | | 3 | | - | | | - | | | 19 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 22 | |
Compensation related to warrants and options granted to consultants | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | 54 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 54 | |
Deferred stock compensation | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | 2 | | | (2 | ) | | - | | | - | | | - | |
Amortization of stock-based compensation | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | 205 | | | 46 | | | - | | | - | | | 251 | |
Net unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | (18 | ) | | - | | | (18 | ) |
Net loss | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | (2,376 | ) | | (2,376 | ) |
| |
| |
|
| |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at December 31, 2005 | | 2,724,087 | | | 32 | | 4,357,769 | | | 103 | | | 43,972 | | | (75 | ) | | (22 | ) | | (37,884 | ) | | 6,126 | |
Issuance of share capital (net of expenses of $ 68) | | - | | | - | | 452,157 | | | 10 | | | 5,422 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 5,432 | |
Exercise of warrants and employee stock options | | 488,027 | | | 9 | | - | | | - | | | 85 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 94 | |
Compensation related to warrants and options granted to consultants | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | 635 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 635 | |
Amortization of stock-based compensation | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | 685 | | | 41 | | | - | | | - | | | 726 | |
Net unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | (14 | ) | | - | | | (14 | ) |
Tax benefit related to exercise of stock options | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | 99 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 99 | |
Share dividend | | 342,588 | | | 8 | | 6,131,170 | | | 139 | | | (147 | ) | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
Issuance of share capital upon Initial Public Offering, net of expenses of $ 7,527 | | 6,500,000 | | | 150 | | - | | | | | | 70,323 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 70,473 | |
Conversion of Convertible Preferred Shares | | 11,177,588 | | | 257 | | (10,941,096 | ) | | (252 | ) | | (5 | ) | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
Net income | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 616 | | | 616 | |
| |
| |
|
| |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at December 31, 2006 | | 21,232,290 | | | 456 | | - | | | - | | | 121,069 | | | (34 | ) | | (36 | ) | | (37,268 | ) | | 84,187 | |
Exercise of warrants and employee stock options and repayment of non-recourse loan | | 1,022,438 | | | 24 | | - | | | - | | | 1,448 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 1,472 | |
Expenses related to issuance of share capital upon Initial Public Offering | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | (58 | ) | | - | | | - | | | - | | | (58 | ) |
Compensation related to options granted to consultants | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | (172 | ) | | - | | | - | | | - | | | (172 | ) |
Stock-based compensation related to options granted to employees | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | 1,499 | | | 34 | | | - | | | - | | | 1,533 | |
Realized loss on available-for-sale securities | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 36 | | | - | | | 36 | |
Tax benefit related to exercise of stock options | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | 127 | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 127 | |
Net loss | | - | | | - | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | (9,940 | ) | | (9,940 | ) |
| |
| |
|
| |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Balance at December 31, 2007 | | 22,254,728 | | $ | 480 | | - | | $ | - | | $ | 123,913 | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | (47,208 | ) | $ | 77,185 | |
| |
| |
|
| |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F – 8
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Cash flows from operating activities: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) | | $ | (2,376 | ) | $ | 616 | | $ | (9,940 | ) |
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | | | | | | | | | | |
Depreciation | | | 559 | | | 893 | | | 1,486 | |
Stock-based compensation related to options granted to employees and non-employees | | | 305 | | | 1,361 | | | 1,361 | |
Amortization of intangible assets | | | 23 | | | 24 | | | - | |
Capital loss | | | 6 | | | - | | | 2 | |
Decrease (increase) accrued severance pay, net | | | (3 | ) | | (75 | ) | | 144 | |
Decrease (increase) in other assets | | | 19 | | | (659 | ) | | 19 | |
Accrued interest on marketable securities | | | (4 | ) | | (223 | ) | | (82 | ) |
Decrease in other long-term liabilities | | | (294 | ) | | - | | | (228 | ) |
Increase in trade receivables | | | (194 | ) | | (648 | ) | | (1,944 | ) |
Increase in other receivables and prepaid expenses | | | (15 | ) | | (1,042 | ) | | (1,795 | ) |
Increase in inventories | | | (271 | ) | | (2,053 | ) | | (1,590 | ) |
Increase (decrease) in deferred taxes | | | (281 | ) | | (90 | ) | | 102 | |
Increase (decrease) in trade payables | | | 536 | | | 2,122 | | | (1,006 | ) |
Increase in employees and payroll accruals | | | 219 | | | 938 | | | 980 | |
Increase (decrease) in deferred revenues | | | 1,315 | | | (531 | ) | | 1,684 | |
Increase (decrease) in other payables and accrued expenses | | | 562 | | | 560 | | | (211 | ) |
Amortization of premium on marketable securities | | | - | | | 46 | | | 38 | |
Other than temporary loss on marketable securities | | | - | | | - | | | 4,881 | |
Amortization of discount on bank credit-line | | | 50 | | | - | | | - | |
Interest on short-term bank deposit | | | (1 | ) | | (1 | ) | | (3 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | | | 155 | | | 1,238 | | | (6,102 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from investing activities: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Decrease in restricted cash | | | 3 | | | 62 | | | - | |
Purchase of property and equipment | | | (686 | ) | | (2,072 | ) | | (3,030 | ) |
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment | | | 4 | | | 4 | | | - | |
Investment in marketable securities | | | (4,300 | ) | | (104,118 | ) | | (87,134 | ) |
Proceeds from redemption or sale of marketable securities | | | 4,550 | | | 32,525 | | | 115,751 | |
Investment in severance pay fund | | | - | | | (271 | ) | | - | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | | | (429 | ) | | (73,870 | ) | | 25,587 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F – 9
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Cash flows from financing activities: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Issuance of share capital upon initial public offering | | | - | | | 70,473 | | | - | |
Bank credit (repayment) | | | (166 | ) | | 6 | | | (6 | ) |
Exercise of warrants and employee stock options and repayment of non-recourse loan | | | 22 | | | 94 | | | 1,436 | |
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation | | | - | | | 67 | | | 127 | |
Expenses related to issuance of share capital upon Initial Public offering | | | - | | | - | | | (58 | ) |
Issuance of share capital, net | | | - | | | 5,432 | | | - | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | | | (144 | ) | | 76,072 | | | 1,499 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | | | (418 | ) | | 3,440 | | | 20,984 | |
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year | | | 4,095 | | | 3,677 | | | 7,117 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year | | $ | 3,677 | | $ | 7,117 | | $ | 28,101 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Supplementary cash flow information: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
(a) Non-cash activities: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Classification of inventory to property and equipment | | $ | 155 | | $ | 281 | | $ | 138 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Exercise of options on account of other receivables | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | 36 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Increase in goodwill on account of short term liability | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | 140 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
(b) Cash paid during the year for: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Interest | | $ | 8 | | $ | 3 | | $ | 1 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Taxes | | $ | - | | $ | 184 | | $ | 69 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F – 10
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
| Allot Communications Ltd. (the “Company”) was incorporated in November 1996 under the laws of the State of Israel. The Company is engaged in developing, selling and marketing broadband service optimization solutions using advanced deep packet inspection, or DPI, technology. The solutions provide broadband service providers and enterprises with real-time, highly granular visibility into network traffic, and enable them to efficiently and effectively manage and optimize their networks. The Company’s solutions are used to create policies to monitor network applications, enforce quality of service policies that guarantee mission-critical application performance, mitigate security risks and leverage network infrastructure investments. The Company’s products consist of the Service Gateway and NetEnforcer traffic management systems the NetXplorer and Subscribe Management Platform application management suites and following the acquisition of Esphion Limited, which was completed on January 8, 2008, also the Service Protector network protection solution. The products are also used by service providers to offer subscriber-based and application-based tiered services that enable them to optimize their service offerings. On November 16, 2006, trading in the Company’s ordinary shares commenced on the Nasdaq Stock Market. |
| |
| The Company holds six wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively “Allot”): Allot Communications, Inc. in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, United-States (the “US subsidiary”), which was incorporated in 1997 under the laws of the State of California, Allot Communication Europe SARL in Sophia, France (the “European subsidiary”), which was incorporated in 1998 under the laws of France, Allot Communications Japan K.K. in Tokyo, Japan (the “Japanese subsidiary”), which was incorporated in 2004 under the laws of Japan, Allot Communication (UK) Limited (the “UK subsidiary”), which was incorporated in 2006 under the laws of England and Wales, Allot Communications (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd. (the “Singaporean subsidiary”), which was incorporated in 2006 under the laws of Singapore, Allot Communications New Zealand Limited (the “NZ subsidiary”), which was incorporated in December 2007 under the laws of New Zealand. |
| |
| The US subsidiary commenced operations in 1997. It engages in the sale, marketing and technical support services in America of products manufactured and imported by the Company. The European, Japanese, UK and Singaporean subsidiaries are engaged in marketing and technical support services of the Company’s products in Europe, Japan UK and Asia Pacific, respectively. The NZ subsidiary commenced its operations in 2008 and is engaged in the research and development of the ServiceProtector Solution, and technical support services such solutions. |
| |
| During 2006 and 2005, approximately 20% and 16%, respectively, of Allot’s revenues derived from a single customer. During 2007, no revenues derived from this customer. |
| |
| Allot currently depends on two subcontractors to manufacture and provide hardware warranty support for its traffic management system. If they experiences delays, disruptions, quality control problem or a loss in capacity, it could materially adversely affect Allot’s operating results (see also Note 7e). Certain components for the Service Gateway and NetEnforcer traffic management systems come from single or limited sources, and Allot could lose sales if these sources fail to satisfy its supply requirements. |
F – 11
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
| | |
| The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“U.S. GAAP”). |
| | |
| a. | Use of estimates: |
| | |
| | The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from such estimates. |
| | |
| b. | Financial statements in U.S. dollars: |
| | |
| | The majority of the revenues of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries are generated in U.S. dollars (“dollar”) or linked to the dollar. In addition, a majority portion of the Company’s and certain of its subsidiaries’ costs are incurred or determined in dollars. A portion of the Company and its subsidiaries’ costs is paid in local currencies. The Company’s management believes that the dollar is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Company and its subsidiaries operate. Thus, the functional and reporting currency of the Company and its subsidiaries is the dollar. |
| | |
| | Accordingly, monetary accounts maintained in currencies other than the dollar are remeasured into U.S. dollars in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 52, “Foreign Currency Translation”. All transactions gains and losses from the remeasurement of monetary balance sheet items are reflected in the statements of operations as financial income or expenses as appropriate. |
| | |
| c. | Principles of consolidation: |
| | |
| | The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. Intercompany balances and transactions, including profits from intercompany sales not yet realized outside Allot, have been eliminated upon consolidation. |
| | |
| d. | Cash and cash equivalents: |
| | |
| | Allot considers all highly liquid investments which are readily convertible to cash with maturity of three months or less, at the date of acquisition, to be cash equivalents. |
| | |
| e. | Marketable securities: |
| | |
| | Allot accounts for its investments in marketable securities using Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities” (“SFAS No. 115”). |
F – 12
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| | The Company’s management determines the appropriate classification of marketable securities at the time of purchase and evaluates such designation as of each balance sheet date. To date, all debt securities have been classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair market value. Fair value is determined based on observable market value quotes or, if market values are not available, using valuation models including assessments of counterparty credit worthiness, credit default risk, underlying security type of collaterals risk premium and overall capital market liquidity conditions. Declines in fair value that are considered other-than-temporary are charged to earnings and those that are considered temporary are reported, net of tax, as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders’ equity. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. |
| | |
| | As of December 31, 2007, the Company held marketable securities in U.S. dollars in the United States, which were classified as available for sale. The balance was composed of Auction Rate Securities (“ARS”) and corporate bonds. The ARS and corporate bonds bear interest at rates ranging from 4.59% to 7.55% per annum. |
| | |
| | Following SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 59, EITF 03-1 and FAS 115-1, management evaluated in each period whether declines in the market value of its securities are other than temporary. Where such declines are determined to be other than temporary, the related unrealized loss is recorded as a write-down included in financial expenses. |
| | |
| f. | Short-term deposit: |
| | |
| | A short-term bank deposit is a deposit with a maturity of more than three months but less than one year. The deposit is in dollars and bears interest at annual weighted average rate of 4.88% at December 31, 2007 and 2006. The short-term deposit is presented at cost, including accrued interest. |
| | |
| g. | Inventories: |
| | |
| | Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost of inventories is determined as the cost of raw materials, manufacturing cost and addition of allocable indirect costs. Cost is determined using the “First In First Out” (FIFO) method. Inventory write-offs due to technological obsolescence totaled $ 175, $ 289 and $ 179 in 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. |
| | |
| h. | Property and equipment: |
| | |
| | Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets at the following annual rates: |
| | | | |
| | | % | |
| | |
| |
| | | | |
Lab equipment | | | 15-33 | |
Computers and peripheral equipment | | | 20-33 | |
Office furniture | | | 6-33 | |
Leasehold improvements | | | By the shorter of term of the lease | |
| | | or the useful life of the asset | |
F – 13
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| i. | Goodwill and intangible assets: |
| | |
| | Goodwill reflects the excess of the purchase price of business acquired over the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired. Intangible assets consist mainly of acquired technology, trade names and customer relations. |
| | |
| | Effective January 1, 2002, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS No. 142”). Under SFAS No. 142, goodwill is no longer amortized but instead is tested for impairment at least annually (or more frequently if impairment indicators arise). |
| | |
| | SFAS No. 142 prescribes a two-phase process for impairment testing of goodwill. The first phase screens for impairment while the second phase (if necessary) measures impairment. In the first phase of impairment testing, goodwill attributable to each of the reporting units is tested for impairment by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying value. The Company currently has one reporting unit. As of December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, no instances of impairment of goodwill were identified. |
| | |
| | Intangible assets are amortized over their useful lives using a method of amortization that reflects the pattern in which the economic benefits of the intangible assets are consumed or otherwise used up, in accordance with SFAS No. 142. The Company amortizes its intangible assets on a straight line basis. As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, the intangible assets were fully amortized. |
| | |
| j. | Impairment of long-lived assets: |
| | |
| | Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” (“SFAS No. 144”), whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. The recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. 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. As of December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, no instances of impairment were identified. |
| | |
| k. | Revenue recognition: |
| | |
| | Allot generates revenues mainly from the sale of hardware and software products and such provision of maintenance and support services. Allot sells its products mostly through resellers, distributors, OEMs, system integrators and value added resellers, all of whom are considered end-customers from Allot’s perspective. |
F – 14
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| | The software components of Allot’s products are deemed to be more than incidental to the products as a whole, in accordance with Statement of Position 97-2, “Software Revenue Recognition” (“SOP 97-2”) and EITF 03-5, “Applicability of AICPA Statement of Position 97-2 to Non-Software Deliverables in an Arrangement Containing More-Than-Incidental Software.” Therefore, Allot accounts for its product sales in accordance with SOP 97-2. Revenues from product sales are recognized when persuasive evidence of an agreement exists, delivery of the product has occurred, no significant obligations with regard to implementation remain, the fee is fixed or determinable and collectibility is probable. |
| | |
| | SOP 97-2 generally requires revenue earned on software arrangements involving multiple elements to be allocated to each element based on the relative objective fair value of the elements. Allot has adopted Statement of Position 98-9, “Modification of SOP 97-2, Software Revenue Recognition with Respect to Certain Transactions” (“SOP 98-9”). According to SOP 98-9, revenues should be allocated to the different elements in the arrangement under the “residual method” when Vendor Specific Objective Evidence (“VSOE”) of fair value exists for all undelivered elements and no VSOE exists for the delivered elements. Under the residual method, at the outset of the arrangement with a customer, Allot defers revenue for the fair value of its undelivered elements (maintenance and support) and recognizes revenue for the remainder of the arrangement fee attributable to the elements initially delivered in the arrangement (hardware and software products) when all other criteria in SOP 97-2 have been met. Any discount in the arrangement is allocated to the delivered element. If sufficient VSOE does not exist for all undelivered elements, revenue is deferred for the entire arrangement until all revenue recognition criteria are met for such undelivered elements. |
| | |
| | Maintenance and support revenue included in multiple element arrangements is deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the applicable maintenance and support agreement. The VSOE of fair value of the maintenance and support services is determined based on the price charged when sold separately. Deferred revenues are classified as short and long terms and recognized as revenues at the time respective elements are provided. |
| | |
| | Allot generally does not grant a right of return to its customers. However, when other customer incentives, such as returns or rebates, are expected and estimated, Allot records a provision at the time product revenues is recognized based on its experience in the last three years. The provision has been deducted from revenues and amounted to $ 467, $ 427 and $ 346 for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. |
| | |
| | Allot grants a one-year hardware warranty and three-month software warranty on all of its products. Allot estimates the costs that may be incurred under its warranty arrangements and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time product revenue is recognized. Factors that affect Allot’s warranty liability include the number of installed units, historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims and cost per claim. Allot periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary. |
F – 15
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| l. | Research and development costs: |
| | |
| | Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 86, “Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software to be Sold, Leased or Otherwise Marketed,” requires capitalization of certain software development costs subsequent to the establishment of technological feasibility. |
| | |
| | Based on Allot’s product development process, technological feasibility is established upon the completion of a working model. Allot does not incur material costs between the completion of a working model and the point at which the products are ready for general release. Therefore, research and development costs are charged to the statement of operations as incurred. |
| | |
| m. | Severance pay: |
| | |
| | The Company’s liability for severance pay for its Israeli employees is calculated pursuant to Israeli severance pay law, based on the most recent monthly salary of its employees multiplied by the number of years of employment as of the balance sheet date for such employees. The Company’s liability is partly provided by monthly deposits with severance pay funds and insurance policies and the remainder by an accrual. |
| | |
| | The deposited funds may be withdrawn only upon the fulfillment of the obligation pursuant to Israel’s Severance Pay law, labor agreements and/or applicable case law. The value of the deposited funds and insurance policies is based on the cash surrendered value and includes profits accumulated up to the balance sheet date. |
| | |
| | Severance expenses for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, amounted to approximately $ 952, $ 819 and $ 426, respectively. |
| | |
| n. | Accounting for stock-based compensation: |
| | |
| | Prior to January 1, 2006, the Company accounted for its stock based compensation awards using the intrinsic value method, under the recognition and measurement provisions of APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (“APB 25”), and related Interpretations, as permitted by Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” (“SFAS No. 123”). |
| | |
| | Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS No. 123(R)”), using the prospective-transition method. SFAS No. 123(R) requires companies to estimate the fair value of equity-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as an expense over the requisite service periods in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Operations. |
F – 16
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| |
| | Under the prospective-transition method, compensation costs recognized in 2006 includes compensation costs for all share-based payments granted subsequent to January 1, 2006 based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R). |
| | |
| | Allot applies SFAS No. 123 and Emerging Issues Task Force No. 96-18, “Accounting for Equity Instruments That Are Issued to Other Than Employees for Acquiring, or in Conjunction with Selling, Goods or Services” (“EITF No. 96-18”), with respect to options and warrants issued to non-employees. SFAS No. 123 requires the use of option valuation models to measure the fair value of the options and warrants at the measurement date as defined in EITF No. 96-18. |
| | |
| | Effective January 1, 2006, Allot adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R). For grants where Allot had previously presented the required SFAS No. 123 pro forma disclosures using the minimum value method, Allot adopted the new standard using the prospective transition method. As such, for those awards only, Allot will continue to apply APB 25 in future periods. |
| | |
| | SFAS No. 123(R) requires the cash flows resulting from the tax deductions in excess of the compensation costs recognized for those stock options to be classified as financing cash flows. The excess tax benefit classified as financing cash inflows would have been classified as an operating cash flow if the Company had not adopted SFAS No. 123(R) at the amount of $ 127 and $ 67 in 2007 and 2006, respectively. |
| | |
| | The following table sets forth the total stock-based compensation expense resulting from stock options included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006: |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Year ended December 31, | |
| | |
| |
| | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| | |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | |
| Cost of revenues | | $ | 15 | | $ | 48 | |
| Research and development expenses, net | | | 157 | | | 230 | |
| Sales and marketing expenses | | | 650 | | | 340 | |
| General and administrative expenses | | | 539 | | | 743 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | |
| Total stock-based compensation expense | | $ | 1,361 | | $ | 1,361 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
F – 17
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| | The fair value of stock-based awards was estimated using the Binomial model starting January 1, 2006 with the following weighted-average assumptions for the year ended December 31, 2007 and 2006: |
| | | | | |
| | | Year ended December 31, |
| | |
|
| | | 2006 | | 2007 |
| | |
| |
|
| | | | | |
| Suboptimal exercise multiple | | 2-3 | | 2-3 |
| Interest rate | | 4.4%-5.33% | | 3.18%-5.38% |
| Volatility | | 80%-85% | | 75% |
| Dividend yield | | 0% | | 0% |
| Weighted-average fair value at grant date | | 4.37 | | 8.57 |
| | |
| | The computation of expected volatility is based on realized historical stock price volatility of certain peer companies that the Company considered to be comparable based on market capitalization and type of technology platform. The computation of the suboptimal exercise multiple and the forfeiture rates are based on the employees expected exercise prior and post vesting termination behavior. The interest rate for period within the contractual life of the award is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The Company currently has no plans to distribute dividends and intends to retain future earnings to finance the development of its business. |
| | |
| o. | Concentration of credit risks: |
| | |
| | Financial instruments that potentially subject Allot to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, short-term deposits and trade receivables. |
| | |
| | The majority of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and short-term deposits of Allot are invested in dollar deposits in major U.S. and Israeli banks. Such deposits in the United States may be in excess of insured limits and are not insured in other jurisdictions. |
| | |
| | Allot’s trade receivables are primarily derived from sales to stable organizations located mainly in the United States, Europe and Asia. |
| | |
| | Allot has no off-balance-sheet concentration of credit risk, such as foreign exchange contracts, option contracts or other foreign hedging arrangements. |
| | |
| p. | Royalty bearing grants: |
| | |
| | Participation grants from the Office of the Chief Scientist of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor in Israel (“OCS”) for research and development activity are recognized at the time Allot is entitled to such grants on the basis of the costs incurred and included as a deduction of research and development costs. Research and development grants recognized amounted to $ 2,371, $ 1,811 and $ 727 in 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. |
F – 18
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| q. | Income taxes: |
| | |
| | Allot accounts for income taxes in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes (“SFAS No. 109”) This Statement prescribes the use of the liability method, whereby deferred tax asset and liability account balances are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Allot provides a valuation allowance, if necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to their estimated realizable value if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. |
| | |
| | Effective January 1, 2007, the Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainties in income taxes by establishing minimum standards for the recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Under the requirements of FIN 48, the Company must review all of its tax positions and make a determination as to whether its position is more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon examination by regulatory authorities. If a tax position meets the more-likely–than-not standard, then the related tax benefit is measured based on a cumulative probability analysis of the amount that is more-likely-than-not to be realized upon ultimate settlement or disposition of the underlying issue. As of January 1, 2007 there was no difference between the provisions of SFAS 5 and FIN 48 therefore no adjustment was recorded to the accumulated deficit. |
| | |
| | Prior to 2007 the Company determined its tax contingencies in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies” (“SFAS No. 5”). The Company recorded estimated tax liabilities to the extent the contingencies were probable and could be reasonably estimated. |
| | |
| r. | Basic and diluted net earnings (loss) per share: |
| | |
| | The Company applies the two class method as required by EITF No. 03-6, “Participating Securities and the Two-Class Method under FASB Statement No. 128” (“EITF No. 03-6”). EITF No. 03-6 requires the earnings (loss) per share for each class of shares (Ordinary shares and Preferred shares) to be calculated assuming 100% of the Company’s earnings are distributed as dividends to each class of shares based on their contractual rights. |
| | |
| | In compliance with EITF 03-6, the series of Preferred shares are not participating securities in losses, and therefore are not included in the computation of net loss per share. |
| | |
| | Basic and diluted net earnings (losses) per share are computed based on the weighted average number of shares of Ordinary shares outstanding during each year. Diluted net earnings (losses) per share are computed based on the weighted-average number of Ordinary shares outstanding during the period, plus dilutive potential shares of Ordinary shares considered outstanding during the period, in accordance with Statement of Financial Standard No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.” |
F – 19
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| | For the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2005, all outstanding options, warrants and Preferred shares (as applicable) have been excluded from the calculation of the diluted loss per share since their effect was anti-dilutive. |
| | |
| | For the year ended December 31, 2006, the total number of shares related to outstanding options excluded from the calculation of diluted net earnings per share was 572,790, because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. |
| | |
| s. | Fair value of financial instruments: |
| | |
| | The following methods and assumptions were used by Allot in estimating the fair value disclosures for financial instruments: |
| | |
| | The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, short-term deposits, trade receivables, other accounts receivable and prepaid expenses, trade payables and other liabilities approximate their fair values due to the short-term maturities of such instruments. |
| | |
| | For marketable securities not actively traded, fair values are estimated using values obtained from the Company’s cash asset managers. To estimate the value of these investments the cash asset managers employ various models that take into consideration such factors, among others, as the credit rating of the issuer, effective maturity of the security, yields on comparably rated publicly traded securities, availability of insurance and risk-free yield curves. The actual value at which such securities could actually be sold or settled with a willing buyer or seller may differ from such estimated fair values depending on a number of factors including, but not limited to, current and future economic conditions, the quantity sold or settled, the presence of an active market and the availability of a willing buyer or seller. |
| | |
| t. | Reclassification |
| | |
| | Certain comparative numbers were reclassified in order to conform to the classification in the current year. Accordingly, an amount of approximately $ 1,678 was reclassified from deferred revenues to trade receivables as of December 31, 2006. |
| | |
| u. | Impact of recently issued accounting standards: |
| | |
| | In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS No. 157”). This statement provides a single definition of fair value, a framework for measuring fair value, and expanded disclosures concerning fair value. Previously, different definitions of fair value were contained in various accounting pronouncements creating inconsistencies in measurement and disclosures. SFAS No. 157 applies under those previously issued pronouncements that prescribe fair value as the relevant measure of value, except SFAS No. 123(R) and related interpretations. The statements does not apply to accounting standards that require or permit measurement similar to fair value but are not intended to measure fair value. This pronouncement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. |
F – 20
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| | On February 12, 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” (“FSP 157-2”). FSP 157-2 amends SFAS No. 157 to delay the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (that is, at least annually). For items within its scope, FSP 157-2 defers the effective date of SFAS No. 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting SFAS No. 157. |
| | |
| | In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“SFAS No. 159”). This statement provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value. Generally accepted accounting principles have required different measurement attributes for different assets and liabilities that can create artificial volatility in earnings. The SFAS No. 159 objective is to reduce both complexity in accounting for financial instruments and the volatility in earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently. This SFAS No. 159 is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007. The adoption of SFAS No. 159 will not have effect on its consolidated financial statements. |
| | |
| | In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 141R, “Business Combinations”, (“SFAS No. 141R”). SFAS 141R establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer of a business recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. SFAS No. 141R also provides guidance for recognizing and measuring the goodwill acquired in the business combination and determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statement to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141R is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Accordingly, any business combinations the Company executes will be recorded and disclosed following existing GAAP until January 1, 2009. |
| | |
| | The Company expects that SFAS No. 141R will have an impact on its consolidated financial statements when effective, but the nature and magnitude of the specific effects will depend upon the nature, terms and size of the acquisitions it consummates after the effective date. The Company is still assessing the impact of this standard on its future consolidated financial statements. |
F – 21
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 2: – | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.) |
| | |
| | In December 2007, the SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 110 (“SAB 110”), which, effective January 1, 2008, amends and replaces SAB 107, Share-Based Payment. SAB 110 expresses the views of the SEC staff regarding the use of a “simplified” method in developing an estimate of expected term of “plain vanilla” share options in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R). Under the “simplified” method, the expected term is calculated as the midpoint between the vesting date and the end of the contractual term of the option. The use of the “simplified” method, which was first described in SAB 107, was scheduled to expire on December 31, 2007. SAB 110 extends the use of the “simplified” method for “plain vanilla” awards in certain situations. The SEC staff does not expect the “simplified” method to be used when sufficient information regarding exercise behavior, such as historical exercise data or exercise information from external sources, becomes available. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact that the adoption of SAB 110 could have on its financial statements. |
| | |
NOTE 3: – | MARKETABLE SECURITIES |
| |
| The following is a summary of available-for-sale securities: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, 2006 | | December 31, 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| | Carrying value | | Unrealized losses | | Market value | | Carrying value | | Unrealized losses | | Market value | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Auction rate securities (*) | | $ | 69,370 | | $ | - | | $ | 69,370 | | $ | 35,371 | | $ | - | | $ | 35,371 | |
Corporate bonds | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | 7,243 | | | - | | | 7,243 | |
Government agencies | | | 6,780 | | | (36 | ) | | 6,744 | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total securities | | $ | 76,150 | | $ | (36 | ) | $ | 76,114 | | $ | 42,614 | | $ | - | | $ | 42,614 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, 2006 | | December 31, 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| | Carrying value | | Market value | | Carrying value | | Market value | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Marketable securities with contractual maturities of less than one year | | $ | 70,370 | | $ | 70,364 | | $ | 7,243 | | $ | 7,243 | |
Marketable securities with contractual maturities of more than one year | | | 5,780 | | | 5,750 | | | 35,371 | | | 35,371 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total securities | | $ | 76,150 | | $ | 76,114 | | $ | 42,614 | | $ | 42,614 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | |
| (*) | Auction Rate Securities (“ARS”) held by the Company are private placement securities with long-term nominal maturities for which the interest rates are reset through a “dutch” auction each month. The monthly auctions historically have provided a liquid market for these securities. The Company’s investments in ARS represent interests in collateralized debt obligations supported by pools of residential and commercial mortgages or credit cards, insurance securitizations and other structured credits, including corporate bonds. Some of the underlying collateral for the ARS held by the Company consists of sub-prime mortgages |
F – 22
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 3: – | MARKETABLE SECURITIES (Cont.) |
| |
| ARS investments had AAA and AA credit ratings at the time of purchase, however, with the liquidity issues experienced in global credit and capital markets, the ARS held by the Company at December 31, 2007 have experienced multiple failed auctions as the amount of securities submitted for sale has exceeded the amount of purchase orders. |
| |
| Based on fair value indication received and valuation models applied by the investment banks and an analysis of other than temporary impairment factors, the Company has recorded a $ 4,881 impairment charge to reflect a devaluation of certain ARS that was considered as other-than-temporary. The impairment charge was included in finance income (expenses), net in the Company’s statement of operations. |
| |
| Historically, given the liquidity created by the auctions, ARS were presented as current assets under marketable securities on the Company’s balance sheet. As a result of the failed auctions, in recent periods the Company’s ARS are illiquid until there is a successful auction for them. Since there is uncertainty about the Company’s ability to liquidate these ARS in a short time, the entire amount of such remaining ARS has been reclassified from current to non-current assets on the Company’s balance sheet. |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | December 31, | |
| | |
| |
| | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| | |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | |
| Raw materials | | $ | 909 | | $ | 676 | |
| Finished products | | | 2,428 | | | 4,113 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | $ | 3,337 | | $ | 4,789 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
NOTE 5: – | PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET |
| | | | | | | | |
| Cost: | | | | | | | |
| Lab equipment | | $ | 3,100 | | $ | 5,879 | |
| Computers and peripheral equipment | | | 2,586 | | | 2,909 | |
| Office furniture and equipment | | | 384 | | | 430 | |
| Leasehold improvements | | | 253 | | | 271 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | | 6,323 | | | 9,489 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | |
| Accumulated depreciation | | | 3,384 | | | 4,870 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | |
| Depreciated cost | | $ | 2,939 | | $ | 4,619 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
| Depreciation expenses for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, were $ 1,486, $ 893 and $ 559, respectively. |
F – 23
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 6: – | INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET |
| | |
| a. | In September 2002, Allot acquired the tangible and intangible assets of NetReality Ltd. (“NetReality”), an Israeli manufacturer of traffic management solutions, following NetReality’s receivership proceedings filed with an Israeli court. Allot also recruited NetReality’s employees. |
| | |
| | In consideration for the assets acquired and liability assumed, Allot granted NetReality’s receiver a fully-vested warrant to purchase 48,267 of series B Preferred shares (with an exercise price of $ 0.02 per share) (“NetReality Warrant”), and undertook to pay royalties at the rate of the higher of (i) 7% from the sales of the NetReality products; or (ii) 1% of the total sales of Allot. The royalties were set to be paid over a period of five years from the date of the acquisition with a minimum of $ 1,000 and maximum of $ 2,500. In connection with the commitment to pay royalties to the OCS, see Note 7a. |
| | |
| | The purchase price was valued at approximately $ 1,254, based on the fair value of the warrant granted, and the minimum commitment to pay royalties. |
| | |
| | The acquisition was accounted for in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141, “Business Combination,” using the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liability assumed based on their fair value at the date of acquisition. The fair values of the identified intangible assets were established based on an independent valuation study performed by a third-party specialist. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired has been recorded as goodwill. |
| | |
| | NetReality’s receiver exercised the NetReality Warrant upon the closing of Allot’s initial public offering into 109,793 Ordinary shares and paid total exercise price of $ 1. |
| | |
| b. | Amortization expenses for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, were, $ 24 and $ 23, respectively. As of December 31, 2007, the intangible assets were fully amortized. |
| |
NOTE 7: – | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES |
| | | |
| a. | Royalties: |
| | |
| | 1. | The Company received research and development grants from the OCS. |
| | | |
| | | The Company is participating in programs sponsored by the Israeli Government for the support of research and development activities. Currently, the Company is obligated to pay royalties to the OCS, amounting to 3.5% of the sales of products of the Company and other related revenues generated, up to 100% of the grants received, linked to the U.S. dollar and for grants received after January 1, 1999 also bearing interest at the rate of LIBOR. The obligation to pay these royalties is contingent on actual sales of products of the Company and in the absence of such sales no payment is required. |
F – 24
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
| | | |
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
|
NOTE 7: – | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (Cont.) |
| |
| | | In connection with the NetReality acquisition, the Company assumed a commitment to pay royalties to the OCS up to the amount of the contingent liabilities derived from the grants that had been received by NetReality prior to the acquisition. In April 2007, the OCS notified the Company of its decision, as per the Company’s request, to separate the NetReality related approved plans from other approved plans. The OCS also approved the discontinuation of the NetReality related approved plans and as a result, the balance of outstanding contingent obligation to pay royalties in the amount of $ 4,722 was waived. |
| | | |
| | | Through December 31, 2007, the Company has paid or accrued royalties to the OCS in the amount of $ 4,826, which was recorded to cost of revenues. |
| | | |
| | | As of December 31, 2007, the Company had an outstanding contingent obligation to pay royalties to the OCS in the amount of approximately $ 5,899. |
| | | |
| | 2. | The Company undertook to pay royalties to the receiver of NetReality. |
| | | |
| | | The financial statements include a liability at present value of the royalties amount that will be paid to the receiver in the amount of $ 140. See Note 6a. |
| | | |
| b. | Lease commitments: |
| | |
| | In February 2006, the Company signed an agreement to rent new offices for a period of seven years, starting July 2006. The rental expenses are $ 39 per month and a management fee of costs plus 15% of the expenses incurred by the building management company as stipulated in the lease agreement. |
| | |
| | The US subsidiary has an operating lease for office facilities in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The lease expires on August 31, 2008. The lease provides for a base monthly rent, adjusted annually for cost of living increases. |
| | |
| | The Company’s subsidiaries maintain smaller offices in Boston (U.S.), Tokyo (Japan), Singapore, Sophia (France), Bedford (UK) and Madrid (Spain). |
| | |
| | In addition, Allot signed motor vehicle operating lease agreements. The terms of the lease agreements range from 36 to 39 months. |
| | |
| | Operating leases (offices and motor vehicles) expenses for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, were $ 2,484, $ 1,403 and $ 1,116, respectively. |
F – 25
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
| |
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
|
NOTE 7: – | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (Cont.) |
| | | |
| | As of December 31, 2007, the aggregate future minimum lease obligations (offices and motor vehicles) under non-cancelable operating leases agreements were as follows: |
| | | | |
Year ended December 31, | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
2008 | | $ | 1,502 | |
2009 | | | 983 | |
2010 | | | 581 | |
2011 | | | 473 | |
2012 and thereafter | | | 668 | |
| |
|
| |
| | | | |
| | $ | 4,207 | |
| |
|
| |
| | |
| c. | Law Suit: |
| | |
| | On May 1, 2007, a securities class action complaint, Brickman Investment Inc. v. Allot Communications Ltd. et al., was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. A number of substantially similar complaints were filed in the same court after the original action was filed. The Company and certain of our directors and officers are named as defendants. The securities class action complaints allege that the defendants violated Sections 11 and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 by making false and misleading statements and omissions in our registration statement for its initial public offering in November 2006. The claims are purportedly brought on behalf of persons who purchased the Company’s ordinary shares pursuant to and/or traceable to the initial public offering on or about November 15, 2006 through April 2, 2007. The plaintiffs seek unspecified compensatory damages against the defendants, as well as attorney’s fees and costs. Motions for consolidation and for appointment of lead plaintiff were filed on July 2, 2007 and were decided on March 27, 2008, with an order granting consolidation and appointing co-lead plaintiffs. The Consolidated Amended Compliant was served on June 9, 2008. No provision has been provided since the Company believes that the claims have no merit. |
| | |
| d. | Liens and charges: |
| | |
| | The Company placed a floating charge in favor of Hapoalim Bank B.M., on all its property, its assets and insurance rights in their respect, in return for credit lines which Hapoalim Bank B.M. has granted the Company. On October 11, 2006, Hapoalim Bank B.M. removed the floating charge. |
| | |
| e. | Other: |
| | |
| | The Company is dependent upon two subcontractors for acquiring components and assembling its products. The subcontractors maintain net supplier’s inventory in accordance with the Company’s selling forecasts. In the event that the Company terminates its business connection with the subcontractors, it will have to compensate the subcontractors for certain inventory costs, as specified in the agreement with the subcontractors. |
F – 26
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 8: – | SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY |
| | |
| a. | On October 26, 2006, the Company’s shareholders approved a 10-for-1 reverse share split by a way of consolidation of every 10 shares of each class of shares into one share of the same class and, accordingly, all shares (Ordinary and Preferred), options, warrants and earnings (losses) per share amounts were adjusted to reflect this reverse share split. Accordingly, all such amounts have been retroactively adjusted in these financial statements. Following such reverse share split, each share has a par value of NIS 0.1 instead of NIS 0.01. |
| | |
| | Effective as of October 29, 2006, following the above shareholders’ approval, the Company’s Board of Directors approved, in accordance with the Company’s Interim Articles of Association (as approved by the Company’s shareholders on October 26, 2006) (“Pre-IPO Articles of Association”), the following: (i) all Ordinary shares, options to purchase Ordinary shares and earnings (losses) per share amounts were adjusted to reflect a share dividend of approximately 1.275 Ordinary share for each Ordinary share; and (ii) the conversion price of each series A Ordinary share and Preferred share was adjusted to reflect such share dividend. Accordingly, all such amounts have been retroactively adjusted in previous financial statements. |
| | |
| | It was further resolved to increase the Company’s registered share capital to NIS 20,000,000. |
| | |
| b. | Composition of share capital: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Authorized | | Issued | | Outstanding | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | December 31, | | December 31, | | December 31, | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | 2006 | | 2007 | | 2006 | | 2007 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | Number of shares | |
| |
| |
Shares of NIS 0.01 par value: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Ordinary shares (1), (2) | | 200,000,000 | | 200,000,000 | | 21,232,290 | | 22,254,728 | | 20,985,811 | | 22,008,249 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 200,000,000 | | 200,000,000 | | 21,232,290 | | 22,254,728 | | 20,985,811 | | 22,008,249 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | |
| (1) | The Ordinary shares conferred upon their holders the right to receive notice of, and participate and vote such shares in general meetings of shareholders of the Company, the right to receive dividends, if and when declared. Until immediately prior to the Company’s initial public offering, the Ordinary shares had the right to receive the remaining assets of the Company upon liquidation or deemed liquidation (as was defined in the Pre-IPO Articles of Association of the Company), subject to the preference in the distribution thereof to the holders of Preferred shares (as described below). |
| | |
| (2) | Immediately prior to the closing of the Company’s initial public offering, all of the then outstanding Preferred shares were converted into Ordinary shares. Ordinary shares confer upon their holders the right to receive notice of, and participate and vote such shares in general meetings of shareholders of the Company, the right to receive dividends, if and when declared and the right to receive the remaining assets of the Company upon liquidation. |
F – 27
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 8: – | SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Cont.) |
| | | |
| | (3) | Shares held in trust: |
| | | |
| | | 246,479 Ordinary shares resulting from conversion of series A Preferred shares that were converted immediately prior to the losing of the Company’s initial public offering, are held in trust for the benefit of the Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors pursuant to a right to purchase pending his payment of the full purchase price of approximately $ 600. For the purposes of calculating shareholders equity, the Company has not considered such shares to be outstanding because neither the Chairman nor the trustee has voting or economic rights with respect to such shares. |
| | | |
| | | In October 2006, the Company’s shareholders and the Board of Directors approved an addendum to the escrow agreement with the Chairman of the Board of Directors regarding these shares. According to the addendum, if the right is not exercised prior to the consummation of a “Liquidity Event” as defined in the escrow agreement, or November 15, 2008, the right and the underlying shares will be forfeited. It was further approved that the Chairman has the right to pay for any portion of the shares by “net payment”. As a result of the modification of the right, the Company recorded a total expense of $ 150. |
| | | |
| c. | Stock option plans: |
| | | |
| | A summary of the Company’s stock option activity, pertaining to its option plans for employees and consultants, and related information is as follows: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | Number of shares upon exercise | | Weighted average exercise price | | Number of shares upon exercise | | Weighted average exercise price | | Number of shares upon exercise | | Weighted average exercise price | |
| |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Outstanding at beginning of year | | | 2,066,601 | | | $ | 1.17 | | | | 2,467,177 | | | $ | 1.56 | | | | 3,383,930 | | | $ | 2.33 | | |
Granted | | | 951,704 | | | $ | 2.24 | | | | 1,138,517 | | | $ | 3.79 | | | | 989,249 | | | $ | 8.57 | | |
Forfeited | | | (274,609 | ) | | $ | 1.88 | | | | (103,182 | ) | | $ | 2.12 | | | | (169,381 | ) | | $ | 5.37 | | |
Exercised | | | (276,519 | ) | | $ | 0.99 | | | | (118,582 | ) | | $ | 0.76 | | | | (982,304 | ) | | $ | 1.22 | | |
| |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
|
Outstanding at end of year | | | 2,467,177 | | | $ | 1.56 | | | | 3,383,930 | | | $ | 2.33 | | | | 3,221,494 | | | $ | 4.42 | | |
| |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|
Exercisable at end of year | | | 1,183,754 | | | $ | 1.10 | | | | 1,877,544 | | | $ | 1.52 | | | | 1,532,506 | | | $ | 4.42 | | |
| |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
| The aggregate intrinsic value represents the total intrinsic value (the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the fiscal year 2007 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on December 31, 2007. This amount changes based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock. The total intrinsic value of options outstanding at December 31, 2007, was $ 4,928. The total intrinsic value of exercisable options at the end of the year was approximately $ 3,751. The total intrinsic value of options vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2007 was approximately $ 4,783. |
F – 28
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 8: – | SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Cont.) |
| | |
| | The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2007 was approximately $ 3,568. The number of options vested during the year ended December 31, 2007 was 488,996. The weighted-average remaining contractual life of the outstanding options as of December 31, 2007 was 7.58 years. The weighted-average remaining contractual life of exercisable options as of December 31, 2007, was 6.84 years. As of December 31, 2007, $ 4,855 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.9 years. |
| | |
| | The options outstanding as of December 31, 2007, have been classified by exercise price, as follows: |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Exercise price | | Shares upon exercise of options outstanding as of December 31, 2007 | | Weighted average remaining contractual life | | Shares upon exercise of options exercisable as of December 31, 2007 | |
|
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | Years | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| $11.34-9.25 | | | 550,950 | | | 8.46 | | | 22,745 | |
| $7.62-6.14 | | | 317,000 | | | 9.15 | | | 1,250 | |
| $5.93-5.70 | | | 110,198 | | | 8.67 | | | 10,221 | |
| $4.616-4.167 | | | 251,298 | | | 7.42 | | | 92,590 | |
| $3.517-3.514 | | | 629,668 | | | 8.09 | | | 275,146 | |
| $2.242-2.240 | | | 996,651 | | | 7.11 | | | 767,177 | |
| $1.363-1.231 | | | 356,083 | | | 5.13 | | | 353,731 | |
| $0.009 | | | 9,646 | | | 3.50 | | | 9,646 | |
| | |
|
| | | | |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | 3,221,494 | | | | | | 1,532,506 | |
| | |
|
| | | | |
|
| |
| | |
| | The Company has three option plans under which outstanding options as of December 31, 2007, are as follows: (i) under the 1997 option plan the outstanding options are exercisable for 10,556 Ordinary shares, (ii) under the 2003 option plan, the outstanding options are exercisable for 2,279,915 Ordinary shares (iii) under the 2006 option plan, the outstanding options are exercisable for 931,024 Ordinary shares. |
| | |
| | Under the terms of the above option plans, options may be granted to employees, officers, directors and various service providers of the Company and its subsidiaries. The options generally become exercisable monthly over a four-year period, commencing one year after date of the grant, subject to the continued employment of the employee. The options generally expire no later than ten years from the date of the grant. The exercise price of the options granted under the plans may not be less than the nominal value of the shares into which such options are exercised. Any options, which are forfeited or cancelled before expiration, become available for future grants. |
F – 29
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 8: – | SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Cont.) |
| |
| The fair value assigned to the Ordinary shares in order to calculate the compensation resulting from employee option grants prior to the IPO, was determined primarily by management. In determining fair value, management has considered a number of factors, including independent valuations and appraisals. |
| |
| The fair value of options granted in 2005 was estimated at the date of grant using the Minimum Value Model option pricing model. |
| |
| The weighted average exercise prices and fair values of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, were as follows: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | Weighted average fair value | | Weighted average exercise price | | Weighted average fair value | | Weighted average exercise price | | Weighted average fair value | | Weighted average exercise price | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|
Lower than market price at date of grant | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Equals market price at date of grant | | $ | 0.35 | | $ | 2.24 | | $ | 2.58 | | $ | 3.79 | | $ | 4.53 | | $ | 8.57 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Greater than market price at date of grant | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | | $ | - | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | |
| d. | The Company’s outstanding rights, warrants and options to investors and others as of December 31, 2007, are as follows: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Issuance date | | Number of shares to be issued | | Class of shares | | Exercise price per share | | Exercisable through | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|
January 1998 (1) | | | 246,479 | | | Ordinary shares | | $ | 2.434 | | The earlier between a Liquidity event and two years after an IPO | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
October 2005 (2) | | | 11,374 | | | Ordinary shares | | $ | 2.24 | | October 2009 | |
| | |
| (1) | Granted to the Chairman of the Board of Directors who also served as Chief Executive Officer at the time of the grant. The underlined shares are issued and held in trust for the benefit of the Chairman, pending his payment of the full purchase price of approximately $ 600. The Company does not consider these shares to be outstanding since, while these shares are held in trust, neither the Chairman nor the trustee have voting or economic rights with respect to such shares |
| | |
| (2) | 56,868 options were granted to contractors in connection with advisory provided to the Board of Directors out of which 11,374 are outstanding and exercisable. All the options granted have a contractual life of 10 years and the exercised price was determined based on the share price at the date of grant. |
F – 30
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 9: – | TAXES ON INCOME |
| |
| a. | Corporate tax rates. |
| | |
| | Generally, Israeli companies are subject to “Corporate Tax” on their taxable income. On July 25, 2005, the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) approved the Law of the Amendment of the Income Tax Ordinance (No. 147), 2005, which prescribes, among others, a gradual decreased in the corporate tax rate in Israel to the following tax rates: in 2006 - 31%, in 2007 - 29%, in 2008 - 27%, in 2009 - 26% and in 2010 and thereafter - 25%. However, the effective tax rate payable by a company which derives income from an approved enterprise may be considerably less, (see Note 9b). |
| | |
| b. | Tax benefits under Israel’s Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 (the “Law”): |
| | |
| | The Company’s productions facilities have been granted a status of an “Approved Enterprise” under the Law. According to the provisions of the Law, the Company has elected the alternative package of benefits – and has waived Government grants in return for tax benefits. |
| | |
| | According to the provisions of the Law, the Company’s income is tax-exempt for a period of two years commencing with the year it first earns taxable income, and subject to corporate taxes at the reduced rate of 10% to 25%, for an additional period of five to eight years depending upon the level of foreign ownership of the Company. The benefit period of tax benefit has not yet commenced, since the Company has not yet reported taxable income. |
| | |
| | The period of tax benefits, detailed above, is limited to the earlier of 12 years from the commencement of production (in 2000), or 14 years from the approval date, (December 8, 1998), (the year’s limitation does not apply to the exemption period). |
| | |
| | The entitlement to the above benefits is contingent upon the fulfillment of the conditions stipulated in the Law, regulations published there under and the criteria set forth in the specific certificates of approval. In the event of failure to comply with these conditions, the benefits may be canceled and the Company may be required to refund the amount of the benefits, in whole or in part, including interest. As of December 31, 2007, management believes that the Company is meeting the aforementioned conditions. |
| | |
| | The tax-exempt income attributable to the “Approved Enterprises” can be distributed to shareholders, without subjecting the Company to taxes, only upon the complete liquidation of the Company. If this retained tax-exempt income is distributed in a manner other than a complete liquidation of the Company, it would be taxed at the corporate tax rate applicable to such profits as if the Company had not elected the alternative tax benefits track (currently, between 10% to 25%). |
F – 31
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 9: – | TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.) |
| |
| | On April 1, 2005, an amendment to the Investment Law came into effect (the “Amendment”) and has significantly changed the provisions of the Investment Law. The Amendment limits the scope of enterprises which may be approved by setting criteria for the approval of a facility as a Beneficiary Enterprise (rather than the previous terminology of Approved Enterprise), such as provisions generally requiring that at least 25% of the Beneficiary Enterprise’s income will be derived from export. Additionally, the Amendment enacted major changes in the manner in which tax benefits are awarded under the Investment Law so that companies no longer required for Investment Center approval in order to qualify for tax benefits. The period of tax benefits for a new “Beneficiary Enterprise” commences in the “Year of Commencement”. This year is the later of: (1) the year in which taxable income is first generated by the company, or (2) the Year of Election. |
| | |
| | If a company requested the “Alternative Package” of benefits for an Approved Enterprise under the Law prior to the 2005 amendment, it is precluded from filing a Year of Election notice for a “Beneficiary Enterprise” for three years after the year in which the Approved Enterprise was activated. |
| | |
| | In addition, the Investment Law provides that terms and benefits included in any certificate of approval already granted will remain subject to the provisions of the Law as they were on the date of such approval. Therefore the Company’s existing Approved Enterprise will generally not be subject to the provisions of the Amendment. |
| | |
| | The Company currently has no plans to distribute dividends and intends to retain future earnings to finance the development of its business. |
| | |
| | Income from sources other than the “Approved Enterprise” during the benefit period will be subject to tax at the regular corporate tax rate. |
| | |
| c. | Tax benefits under the Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 1969: |
| | |
| | The Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 1969, generally referred to as the Industry Encouragement Law, provides several tax benefits for industrial companies. An industrial company is defined as a company resident in Israel, at least 90% of the income of which in a given tax year exclusive of income from specified government loans, capital gains, interest and dividends, is derived from an industrial enterprise owned by it. An industrial enterprise is defined as an enterprise whose major activity in a given tax year is industrial production activity. |
| | |
| | Under some tax laws and regulations, an industrial enterprise may be eligible for special depreciation rates for machinery, equipment and buildings. These rates differ based on various factors, including the date the operations begin and the number of work shifts. An industrial company owning an approved enterprise may choose between these special depreciation rates and the depreciation rates available to the approved enterprise. |
F – 32
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 9: – | TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.) |
| |
| | Eligibility for benefits under the Industry Encouragement Law is not subject to receipt of prior approval from any governmental authority. No assurance can be given that the Israeli tax authorities will agree that the Company qualifies, or, if the Company qualifies, then the Company will continue to qualify as an industrial company or that the benefits described above will be available to the Company in the future. |
| | |
| d. | Pre-tax income (loss) is comprised as follows: |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|
Domestic | | $ | (2,867 | ) | $ | (1,144 | ) | $ | (9,318 | ) |
Foreign | | | 273 | | | 1,871 | | | (92 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | $ | (2,594 | ) | $ | 727 | | $ | (9,410 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | |
| e. | A reconciliation of the theoretical tax expenses, assuming all income is taxed at the statutory tax rate applicable to the income of the Company and the actual tax expenses is as follows: |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | Year ended December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|
Income (loss) before taxes on income | | $ | (2,594 | ) | $ | 727 | | $ | (9,410 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Theoretical tax expense (benefit) computed at the statutory tax rate (34%, 31% and 29% for the years 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively) | | $ | (882 | ) | $ | 225 | | $ | (2,729 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred tax asset for which valuation allowance was provided | | | 603 | | | (208 | ) | | 2,685 | |
Tax benefit related to exercise of options | | | - | | | (67 | ) | | - | |
Taxes with respect to prior years | | | 30 | | | 85 | | | (1 | ) |
Impairment of withholding tax asset | | | - | | | - | | | 250 | |
Non-deductible expenses and other | | | 104 | | | 99 | | | 181 | |
Other | | | (73 | ) | | (23 | ) | | 144 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Actual tax expenses (benefit) | | $ | (218 | ) | $ | 111 | | $ | 530 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Taxes on income are comprised as follows: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Current taxes | | $ | (531 | ) | $ | 111 | | $ | 179 | |
Deferred taxes | | | 283 | | | (85 | ) | | 102 | |
Taxes and deferred taxes in respect of previous years | | | 30 | | | 85 | | | (1 | ) |
Impairment of withholding tax asset | | | - | | | - | | | 250 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | $ | (218 | ) | $ | 111 | | $ | 530 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
F – 33
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 9: – | TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.) |
| |
| f. | Net operating losses carryforward: |
| | |
| | The Company has accumulated losses for tax purposes as of December 31, 2007, in the amount of approximately $ 38,000, which may be carried forward and offset against taxable income in the future for an indefinite period. The Company expects that during the period in which these tax losses are utilized its income would be substantially tax exempt. Accordingly, there will be no tax benefit available from such losses and no deferred income taxes have been included in these financial statements. |
| | |
| | The European subsidiary is subject to French income taxes and has a net operating loss carryforward amounting to approximately $ 1.6 million as of December 31, 2007. |
| | |
| g. | Deferred income taxes: |
| | |
| | Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company’s deferred income tax are as follows: |
| | | | | | | |
| | December 31, | |
| |
| |
| | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
Deferred tax assets: | | | | | | | |
Operating loss carry forward | | $ | 7,357 | | $ | 9,986 | |
Reserves and allowances | | | 366 | | | 320 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Deferred tax asset before valuation allowance | | | 7,723 | | | 10,306 | |
Valuation allowance | | | (7,325 | ) | | (10,010 | ) |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Net deferred tax asset | | $ | 398 | | $ | 296 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | |
| h. | The Company adopted the provisions of FIN 48 on January 1, 2007. Prior to 2007 the Company used the provisions of SFAS 5 to determine tax contingencies. As of January 1, 2007, there was no material difference between the provision under FIN 48 therefore there was no effect on the Company’s shareholders equity upon the Company’s adoption of FIN 48.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: |
| | | | |
Gross unrecognized tax benefits as of January 1, 2007 | | $ | 180 | |
Increase in tax position for prior years | | | 24 | |
Increase in tax position for current years | | | 46 | |
| |
|
| |
| | | | |
Gross unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2007 | | $ | 250 | |
| |
|
| |
| |
| The Company conducts business globally and, as a result, the Company or one or more of its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by taxing authorities throughout the world, including such major jurisdictions as Israel, France, and the United States. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to Israeli final tax assessment through the year 2003 and the European and U.S. subsidiaries have final tax assessment through 2005 and 2002, respectively. |
F – 34
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| | |
NOTE 10: – | NET EARNINGS (LOSSES) PER SHARE |
| |
| The following table sets forth the computation of the basic and diluted net earnings (loss) per share: |
| | |
| a. | Numerator: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | Year ended December 31, | |
| | | |
| |
| | | | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| | | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net income (loss) as reported | | $ | (2,376 | ) | $ | 616 | | $ | (9,940 | ) |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| b. | Denominator: | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | Number of shares | |
| | |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Weighted average number of ordinary shares | | | 2,943,500 | | | 14,402,338 | | | 21,525,822 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Denominator for basic net losses per share of Ordinary shares | | | 2,943,500 | | | 14,402,338 | | | 21,525,822 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Effect of dilutive securities: | | | | | | | | | | |
| Employee stock options and warrants | | | (*) | | | 2,020,889 | | | (*) | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Denominator for diluted net earnings (losses) per share of Ordinary shares | | | 2,943,500 | | | 16,423,227 | | | 21,525,822 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
NOTE 11: – | GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION |
| |
| Allot operates in a single reportable segment (see Note 1). Revenues are based on the customer’s location: |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year ended December 31, | |
| | |
| |
| | | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| United Kingdom | | $ | 5,781 | | $ | 8,566 | | $ | 1,915 | |
| Europe (excluding United Kingdom) | | | 4,916 | | | 8,030 | | | 8,581 | |
| MEA (Middle East and Africa) | | | 831 | | | 1,662 | | | 2,061 | |
| United States of America | | | 6,563 | | | 7,628 | | | 6,435 | |
| Americas (excluding United States of America) | | | 842 | | | 1,236 | | | 3,636 | |
| AO (Asia and Oceania) | | | 4,039 | | | 7,022 | | | 9,874 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | $ | 22,972 | | $ | 34,144 | | $ | 32,502 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
F – 35
ALLOT COMMUNICATIONS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
|
U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data |
| |
NOTE 11: – | GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Cont.) |
| |
| The following presents total long-lived assets as of December 31, 2006 and 2007: |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | December 31, | |
| | |
| |
| | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| | |
| |
| |
| Long-lived assets: | | | | | | | |
| Israel | | $ | 3,488 | | $ | 5,310 | |
| United States of America | | | 218 | | | 170 | |
| Other | | | 95 | | | 122 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | $ | 3,801 | | $ | 5,602 | |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
NOTE 12: – | FINANCIAL AND OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES) |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year ended December 31, | |
| | |
| |
| | | 2005 | | 2006 | | 2007 | |
| | |
| |
| |
| |
| Financial and other income: | | | | | | | | | | |
| Interest income | | $ | 204 | | $ | 845 | | $ | 4,193 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Financial and other expenses: | | | | | | | | | | |
| Interest expenses and other | | | (77 | ) | | (155 | ) | | (79 | ) |
| Amortization of discount on bank credit-line | | | (50 | ) | | - | | | - | |
| Foreign currency transactions differences, net | | | (32 | ) | | (60 | ) | | (78 | ) |
| Impairment related to Auction Rate Securities | | | - | | | - | | | (4,881 | ) |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | $ | 45 | | $ | 630 | | $ | (845 | ) |
| | |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
NOTE 13: – | SUBSEQUENT EVENTS |
| |
| On January 8, 2008, the Company completed an acquisition of the business of Esphion Limited, a developer of network protection solutions for carriers and internet service providers. The Company believes that the acquisition furthers its vision of offering value-added services on its new Service Gateway platform to help broadband providers build secure and intelligent networks by purchasing certain assets. Total consideration including direct transaction costs for the acquisition was approximately $ 3,931, plus potential earn-outs based on performance milestones amounting to a maximum of an additional $ 2,000 payable through December 2008. |
| |
| The Company allocated the purchase price of the acquisition to the tangible and intangible assets acquired, based on their estimated fair values. The excess purchase price over those fair values is recorded as goodwill. The fair value assigned to assets acquired is based on valuations using management’s estimates and assumptions. The Company recorded approximately $ 2,851 of goodwill and approximately $ 970 of purchased intangibles related to this acquisition. |
F – 36