Exhibit 99.1
MEDIGUS LTD.
Omer Industrial Park, No. 7A, P.O. Box 3030
Omer 8496500
Israel
July 26, 2021
Dear Shareholder:
You are cordially invited to attend the annual general meeting (the “Meeting”) of the shareholders of Medigus Ltd. (the “Company”), to be held on Monday, August 30, 2021, beginning at 5:00 PM, Israel time (10:00 AM Eastern time), at the offices of Meitar | Law Offices, 16 Abba Hillel Silver Rd. Ramat Gan, Israel 5250608, or at any adjournments thereof.
The Company’s formal notice of the Meeting and the proxy statement for the Meeting (the “Proxy Statement”) appearing on the following pages, describe in detail the matters to be acted upon at the Meeting.
Only shareholders who held shares at the close of business on Monday, August 2, 2021, are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting and any adjournments thereof. The Company’s board of directors recommends a vote “FOR” all of the matters set forth in the notice.
Whether or not you plan to attend the Meeting, it is important that your shares be represented and voted at the Meeting. Accordingly, after reading the enclosed Notice of Annual General Meeting of Shareholders and accompanying Proxy Statement, please sign, date and mail the enclosed proxy card in the envelope provided or vote by telephone or over the Internet in accordance with the instructions on your proxy card.
We look forward to seeing as many of you as can attend the Meeting.
Very truly yours, | |
Eliyahu Yoresh | |
Chairman of the Board of Directors |
MEDIGUS LTD.
Omer Industrial Park, No. 7A, P.O. Box 3030
Omer 8496500
Israel
PROXY STATEMENT
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To be held on August 30, 2021
Notice is hereby given to the holders of ordinary shares, of no par value (the “Ordinary Shares”), and to holders of American depository shares, evidenced by American depositary receipts, each representing twenty (20) Ordinary Shares, issued by The Bank of New York Mellon (“ADSs” and “ADRs”, respectively), of Medigus Ltd. (the “Company”) in connection with the solicitation by the board of directors (the “Board”) of proxies for use at the annual general meeting of shareholders (the “Meeting”), to be held on Monday, August 30, 2021, at 5:00 PM Israel time (10:00 AM Eastern time) at the offices of Meitar | Law Offices, 16 Abba Hillel Silver Rd. Ramat Gan, Israel 5250608, or at any adjournments thereof.
The agenda for the Meeting is to consider the approval of the following:
1. | Approval of the re-election of Ms. Kineret Tzedef to serve as a director of the Company; |
2. | Approval of a compensation policy for the Company’s officers and directors; |
3. | Approval of amendments to the compensation terms of the Company’s non-executives directors; |
4. | Approval of amendments to the compensation terms of Mr. Eliyahu Yoresh, the chairperson of the Board; |
5. | Approval of amendments to the compensation terms of Mr. Liron Carmel, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer; | |
6. | Approval of a reverse split of the Company’s Ordinary Shares; and |
7. | Approval and ratification of the re-appointment of Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co., a member firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, our independent auditors for the year ending December 31, 2021, and its service until the next annual general meeting of shareholders to be held in 2022. |
In addition, shareholders at the Meeting will have an opportunity to review and ask questions regarding the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.
The Company is currently unaware of any other matters that may be raised at the Meeting. Should any other matters be properly raised at the Meeting, the persons designated as proxies shall vote according to their own judgment on those matters.
The Board recommends that shareholders vote in favor of each of the above proposals, which will be described in the proxy statement to be made available to the Company’s shareholders.
Only shareholders and ADR holders of record at the close of business on Monday, August 2, 2021, shall be entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Meeting.
Whether or not you plan to attend the Meeting, it is important that your shares be represented. Accordingly, shareholders and ADR holders who will not attend the Meeting in person are urged to vote with respect to proposals by means of a proxy card. Holders of Ordinary Shares must submit their proxies to the Company’s offices no later than four (4) hours prior to the Meeting (i.e., 1:00 PM (Israel time) on Monday, August 30, 2021) with a proof of ownership on the Record Date in accordance with the Israel Companies Regulations (Proof of Ownership of Shares for Voting at General Meeting), 5760-2000. ADR holders should return their proxies by the date set forth on the form of proxy. Execution of a proxy will not in any way affect a shareholder’s right to attend the Meeting and vote in person, and any person giving a proxy has the right to revoke it at any time before it is exercised.
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A proxy statement describing the various matters to be voted upon at the Meeting along with a proxy card enabling the shareholders to indicate their vote on each matter was furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) under cover of Form 6-K and is available on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. Such proxy statement will also be available on the Company’s website at www.medigus.com.
In addition, ADR holders wishing to express their position on an agenda item for this Meeting may do so by submitting a written statement (“Position Statement”) to the Company’s offices, at Omer Industrial Park, No. 7A, P.O. Box 3030, Omer 8496500, Israel, Attention: Ms. Tali Dinar, Chief Financial Officer, facsimile number +972-8-8538194, e-mail address: tali.dinar@medigus.com. Any Position Statement received will be furnished to the Commission on Form 6-K, and will be made available to the public on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. Position Statements should be submitted to the Company no later than Monday, August 23, 2021.
The wording of the resolutions to be voted at the Meeting and relevant documents thereto may be inspected at the Company’s offices during normal business hours and by prior coordination with Ms. Tali Dinar (Tel: +972-8-6466880).
By Order of the Board of Directors, | |
Eliyahu Yoresh | |
Chairman of the Board of Directors |
Omer, Israel
July 26, 2021
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MEDIGUS LTD.
Omer Industrial Park, No. 7A, P.O. Box 3030, Omer 8496500, Israel
Tel: +972-72-2602200
PROXY STATEMENT
General Information
This proxy statement (the “Proxy Statement”) is furnished to the holders of ordinary shares, of no par value (the “Ordinary Shares”), and to holders of American depository shares evidenced by American depositary receipts, each representing twenty (20) Ordinary Shares, issued by The Bank of New York Mellon ((“ADSs”) and “ADRs”, respectively), of Medigus Ltd. (the “Company”) in connection with the solicitation by the board of directors (the “Board”) of proxies for use at the annual general meeting of shareholders (the “Meeting”), to be held on Monday, August 30, 2021, at 5:00 PM Israel time (10:00 AM Eastern time) at the offices of Meitar | Law Offices, 16 Abba Hillel Silver Rd. Ramat Gan, Israel 5250608, or at any adjournments thereof.
Record Date; Shareholders Entitled to Vote
Only holders of Ordinary Shares and ADR holders of record at the close of business on Monday, August 2, 2021 (the “Record Date”), shall be entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Meeting. At the close of business on July 23, 2021, the Company had 477,003,699 outstanding Ordinary Shares, each of which is entitled to one vote for each of the matters to be presented at the Meeting.
Proxies
Whether or not you plan to attend the Meeting, it is important that your shares be represented. Accordingly, holders of Ordinary Shares and ADR holders who will not attend the Meeting in person are urged to vote with respect to proposals by means of a proxy card. Holders of Ordinary Shares must submit their proxies to the Company’s offices no later than four (4) hours prior to the Meeting (i.e., 1:00 PM (Israel time) on Monday, August 30, 2021). ADR holders should return their proxies by the date set forth on the form of proxy. Execution of a proxy will not in any way affect a shareholder’s right to attend the Meeting and vote in person, and any person giving a proxy has the right to revoke it at any time before it is exercised.
The Proxy Statement describing the various matters to be voted upon at the Meeting along with a proxy card enabling the shareholders to indicate their vote on each matter was furnished to the Commission under cover of Form 6-K and is available on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. Such Proxy Statement will also be available on the Company’s website at www.medigus.com.
All shares represented by properly executed proxies received prior to or at the Meeting and not revoked prior to, or at, the Meeting in accordance with the procedures described in the proxy statement, will be voted as specified in the instructions indicated in such proxies. Subject to applicable law and the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market, in the absence of instructions, the shares represented by properly executed and received proxies will be voted “FOR” all of the proposed resolutions to be presented at the Meeting for which the Board recommends a “FOR”, other than for Proposal No. 2, and, in the event Proposal No. 2 is not approved, Proposal Nos. 3, 4 and 5.
Holders of Ordinary Shares and ADR holders may revoke their proxies at any time before the deadline for receipt of proxies by filing with the Company, in the case of holders of Ordinary Shares, or with the ADR depositary, in the case of holders of ADRs, a written notice of revocation or duly executed proxy bearing a later date.
In addition, ADR holders wishing to express their position on an agenda item for this Meeting may do so by submitting a written statement (“Position Statement”) to the Company’s offices, at Omer Industrial Park, No. 7A, P.O. Box 3030, Omer 8496500, Israel, Attention: Ms. Tali Dinar, Chief Financial Officer, facsimile number +972-8-8538194, e-mail address: tali.dinar@medigus.com. Any Position Statement received will be furnished to the Commission on Form 6-K, and will be made available to the public on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. Position Statements should be submitted to the Company no later than Monday, August 23, 2021.
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Expenses and Solicitation
The Board is soliciting proxies for use at the Meeting. The Company expects to mail this Proxy Statement and the accompanying proxies to ADR holders on or about Friday, August 6, 2021. In addition to solicitation of proxies to ADR holders by mail, certain officers, directors, employees and agents of the Company, none of whom shall receive additional compensation therefor, may solicit proxies by telephone or other personal contact. The Company shall bear the cost of the solicitation of the proxies, including postage, printing and handling and shall reimburse the reasonable expenses of brokerage firms and others for forwarding material to beneficial owners of Ordinary Shares or ADRs.
Quorum
Discussion at the Meeting will be commenced if a quorum is present. A quorum is constituted by two or more shareholders who are present in person or by proxy, and who hold or represent shares holding in the aggregate at least ten percent (10%) of the voting rights in the Company. If a quorum is not present within half an hour of the time designated for the Meeting, the Meeting will be adjourned to Tuesday, August 31, 2021, at the same time and place. At the adjourned Meeting, if a quorum is not present within half an hour, any number of shareholders who are present in person or proxy, or who have delivered a proxy card, will constitute a quorum.
Required Vote and Voting Procedures
The approval of each of the Proposals requires the affirmative vote of the Company’s shareholders holding at least a majority of the Company’s Ordinary Shares present, in person or by proxy, and voting on the matter.
Proposal No. 2, and, in the event Proposal No. 2 is not approved, the approval of Proposal Nos. 3, 4 and 5 are subject to the fulfillment of one of the following additional voting requirements:
(i) | the majority of the shares that are voted at the Meeting in favor of the Proposal, excluding abstentions, includes a majority of the votes of shareholders who are not controlling shareholders and do not have a personal interest in the Proposal; or |
(ii) | the total number of shares of the shareholders mentioned in clause (i) above that are voted against the Proposal does not exceed two percent (2%) of the total voting rights in the Company. |
For this purpose, a “controlling shareholder” is any shareholder that has the ability to direct the Company’s activities (other than by means of being a director or office holder of the Company). A person is presumed to be a controlling shareholder if he or she holds or controls, by himself or together with others, one half or more of any one of the “means of control” of a company. “Means of control” is defined as any one of the following: (i) the right to vote at a general meeting of a company, or (ii) the right to appoint directors of a company or its chief executive officer. A controlling shareholder shall also include, for the purpose of Proposal No. 3, 4 and 5, in the event Proposal No. 2 is not approved, a person who holds 25% or more of the voting rights in the general meeting of the company if there is no other person who holds more than 50% of the voting rights in the company; for the purpose of a holding, two or more persons holding voting rights in the company each of which has a personal interest in the approval of the transaction being brought for approval of the company will be considered to be joint holders.
A “personal interest” of a shareholder in an action or transaction of a company includes a personal interest of any of the shareholder’s relatives (i.e. spouse, brother or sister, parent, grandparent, child as well as child, brother, sister or parent of such shareholder’s spouse or the spouse of any of the above) or an interest of a company with respect to which the shareholder or the shareholder’s relative (as defined above) holds 5% or more of such company’s issued shares or voting rights, in which any such person has the right to appoint a director or the chief executive officer or in which any such person serves as director or the chief executive officer, including the personal interest of a person voting pursuant to a proxy which the proxy grantor has a personal interest, whether or not the person voting pursuant to such proxy has discretion with regards to the vote; and excludes an interest arising solely from the ownership of shares of a company.
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If you do not state whether you are a controlling shareholder or have personal interest with respect to Proposal No. 2, and in the event that Proposal No. 2 is not approved, with respect to Proposal Nos. 3, 4 and 5, your shares will not be voted for Proposal Nos. 2, 3, 4 and 5, as applicable.
In connection with Proposal Nos. 2 and 5, the Companies Law allows our Board to approve such proposal even if the general meeting of shareholders has voted against its approval, provided that the company’s compensation committee, and thereafter its Board, each determines to approve it, based on detailed arguments that the proposed resolutions are in the best interests of the Company despite the opposition of the shareholders, and after having reconsidered the matters.
The lack of a required majority for the adoption of any resolution presented shall not affect the adoption of any other resolutions for which the required majority was obtained.
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” EACH OF THE PROPOSALS.
Position Statements
Holders of Ordinary Shares or ADR holders wishing to express their position on an agenda item for this Meeting may do so by submitting a written statement (“Position Statement”) to the Company’s offices, at Omer Industrial Park, No. 7A, P.O. Box 3030, Omer 8496500, Israel, Attention: Ms. Tali Dinar, Chief Financial Officer, facsimile number +972-8-8538194, e-mail address: tali.dinar@medigus.com. Any Position Statement received will be furnished to the Commission on Form 6-K, and will be made available to the public on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. Position Statements should be submitted to the Company no later than Monday, August 23, 2021. A shareholder is entitled to contact the Company directly and receive the text of the proxy card and any Position Statement.
Reporting Requirements
The Company is subject to the information reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), applicable to foreign private issuers. The Company fulfills these requirements by filing reports with the Commission. Our filings with the Commission may be inspected without charge at the Commission’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room can be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Our filings are also available to the public on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov.
As a foreign private issuer, the Company is exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act related to the furnishing and content of proxy statements. The circulation of this notice and proxy statement should not be taken as an admission that the Company is subject to the proxy rules under the Exchange Act.
Meeting Agenda
In accordance with the Companies Law and regulations promulgated thereunder, any shareholder of the Company holding at least one percent of the outstanding voting rights of the Company for the meeting may submit to the Company a proposed additional agenda item for the meeting, to the Company’s offices at Omer Industrial Park, Building No. 7A, P.O. Box 3030, Omer 8496500, Israel, Attention: Ms. Tali Dinar, Chief Financial Officer, facsimile number +972-8-8538194, e-mail address: tali.dinar@medigus.com no later than Monday, August 2, 2021. To the extent that there are any additional agenda items that the Board determines to add as a result of any such submission, the Company will publish an updated agenda and proxy card with respect to the Meeting, no later than Monday, August 9, 2021 which will be furnished to the Commission on Form 6-K, and will be made available to the public on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov.
The wording of the resolutions to be voted at the Meeting and relevant documents thereto may be inspected at the Company’s offices during normal business hours and by prior coordination with Ms. Tali Dinar (Tel: +972-8-6466880).
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COMPENSATION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
For information regarding compensation granted to our five most highly compensated office holders (as defined in the Companies Law) during or with respect to the year ended December 31, 2020, please see Item 6 B. of our Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2020, filed on Form 20-F with the Commission on May 14, 2021, and accessible through the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov.
DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Our Board has determined that each of our directors satisfies the independent director requirements under the Nasdaq corporate governance requirements. As such, the Board is solely comprised of independent directors as such term is defined in the Nasdaq Rules.
Our Board has further determined that each member of our audit committee is independent as such term is defined in Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and that each member of our audit committee and compensation committee satisfies the additional requirements applicable under the Nasdaq Rules to members of audit committees and compensation committees, respectively.
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PROPOSAL NO. 1
APPROVAL OF THE RE-ELECTION OF MS. KINERET TZEDEF AS A DIRECTOR OF THE COMPANY
At the Meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve the re-election of Ms. Kineret Tzedef as a director of the Company to hold office until the close of the annual general meeting to be held in 2024.
Herein below are details on Ms. Kineret Tzedef, standing for re-election:
Kineret Tzedef has been serving as member of our Board since June 2019. Ms. Tzedef also serves as a director of sports division and served in other positions at Hapoel Organization (Israeli Sport Federation) since 2007. Ms. Tzedef is the president of Israeli Gymnastics Federation since 2018. Ms. Tzedef serves as an external director at Chiron Refineries Ltd. (TASE: CHR), and as an external director of Biomedico Hadarim Ltd. (TASE: BIMCM). Ms. Tzedef is admitted to the Israel Bar Association since 2014. Ms. Tzedef acquired a LL.B from the Academic Center for Law and Science, Israel and a B.Ed. in Law Study from the Academic College at Wingate, Israel.
At the Meeting, it is proposed that the following resolution be adopted:
“RESOLVED, to approve the re-election of Ms. Kineret Tzedef as a director of the Company to hold office until the close of the annual general meeting to be held in 2024, or her earlier resignation or removal, as applicable.”
The Board recommends shareholders vote
“FOR” Proposal No. 1
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PROPOSAL NO. 2
APPROVAL OF A COMPENSATION POLICY FOR THE COMPANY’S OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
At the Meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve a new compensation policy regarding the terms of office and employment of our executive officers and directors. As required by the Companies Law, we have adopted a compensation policy regarding the terms of office and employment of our executive officers and directors. Our current compensation policy (the “Compensation Policy”) became effective on January 9, 2019, following its approval by our shareholders as amended on July 25, 2019, July 9, 2020 and February 12, 2021.
Pursuant to the Companies Law, our Compensation Policy must be reviewed from time to time by our compensation committee of the Board (the “Compensation Committee”) and the Board, to ensure its alignment with the Company’s compensation philosophy and to consider its appropriateness for the Company. The Compensation Policy must generally be re-approved once every three years by the Board, after considering the recommendations of the Compensation Committee, and by the Company’s shareholders.
Following a review of the Current Compensation Policy by our Compensation Committee and Board, our Compensation Committee and the Board propose adopting a new compensation policy (the “Proposed Compensation Policy”), in the form attached to this Proxy Statement as Annex A.
The Proposed Compensation Policy, if approved by our shareholders, will become effective immediately following the Meeting, for a period of three years. If the Proposed Compensation Policy will not be approved by our shareholders, our current Compensation Policy will remain in full force and effect until the earlier of its expiration, on January 8, 2022, or the adoption of a new compensation policy. To the extent not approved by our shareholders at the Meeting, our Compensation Committee and Board may nonetheless approve the Proposed Compensation Policy, following re-discussion of the matter and for specified reasons, provided such approval is in the best interests of the Company.
The Proposed Compensation Policy is intended to incentivize individual excellence to align the interests of our office holders with the Company’s short and long-term goals and performance, and as a result, with those of our shareholders.
Pursuant to the Proposed Compensation Policy, the compensation that may be granted to an executive officer may include: base salary, annual bonuses and other cash bonuses (such as relocation/repatriation, signing and special bonuses), as well as equity-based compensation, retirement and termination of employment arrangements and other benefits. The cash bonuses that may be granted under the Proposed Compensation Policy are limited to a maximum amount linked to the executive officer’s base salary.
Under the Proposed Compensation Policy, an annual cash bonus that may be awarded to executive officers (other than the Chief Executive Officer) may be based on company, division, departmental, business unit, and individual objectives. Measurable performance objectives may be based on actual financial and operational results, personal objectives, operational objectives, project milestones objectives or investment in human capital objectives. The Company may also grant annual cash bonuses to executive officers (other than the Chief Executive Officer) on a discretionary basis.
The Proposed Compensation Policy provides that the annual bonus awarded to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer will be based on measurable performance objectives of the Company, subject to a minimum threshold. The measurable performance objectives will be determined annually by the Compensation Committee and the Board and will be based on actual financial and operational results, such as among others, revenues, sales, operating income, cash flow or the Company’s annual operating plan and long-term plan.
Similar to our current Compensation Policy, the equity-based compensation under the Proposed Compensation Policy for our executive officers is consistent with the underlying objectives in determining the base salary and the annual cash bonus and designed to enhance the alignment between the executive officers’ interests with the long term interests of the Company and its shareholders and to promote our retention efforts. Equity-based awards may be granted from time to time in the form of options and/or other equity-based awards, such as RSUs, in accordance with the Company’s 2013 Israeli Share Option and Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”) as may be updated from time to time, will be structured to vest over several years in order to align such executive officers incentives with longer-term strategic plans of the Company, and will be individually determined and awarded according to the performance, role and the personal responsibilities of the relevant executive officer.
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Under the Proposed Compensation Policy our executive officers may be granted with several cash and equity benefits upon or in connection with “Change of Control” or, where applicable, in the event of a Change of Control following which the employment of the executive officer is terminated or adversely adjusted in a material way. Our executive officers also may be granted with a non-compete grant upon the termination of their employment, the terms and conditions of which shall be decided by the Board.
The Proposed Compensation Policy contains compensation recovery (Clawback) provisions in the event of accounting restatement, which would allow the Company, under certain conditions, to recover bonuses or performance-based equity paid in excess of what would have been paid under the financial statements, as restated. The Proposed Compensation Policy also contains provisions that would enable our Chief Executive Officer to approve any immaterial change in the terms of employment of other executive officers (provided that the changes of the terms of employment are in accordance with the Proposed Compensation Policy) and would allow the Company to exculpate, indemnify and insure our executive officers and directors subject to certain updated limitations set forth in the Proposed Compensation Policy.
The Proposed Compensation Policy also governs the compensation of our Board members and provides that our non-employee directors may be entitled to an annual cash fee retainer, up to the limits set forth in the Proposed Compensation Policy. Our chairperson may also be entitled to an annual cash fee and annual bonus limited to a maximum amount as set forth in the Proposed Compensation Policy. In special circumstances, such as in the case of a professional director, an expert director or a director who makes a unique contribution to the Company, such director’s compensation may be different than the compensation of all other directors and may be greater than the maximal cash fee retainer amount allowed in the Proposed Compensation Policy, subject to the approval of the Company’s shareholders as required under the Companies Law.
Under the Proposed Compensation Policy, our non-executive directors and our chairperson may also be awarded annual equity-based compensation up to the applicable limits set forth in the Proposed Compensation Policy, as shall be determined from time to time and approved by the Compensation Committee, the Board and the Company’s shareholders, which will be subject to a vesting schedule over several years. In addition, our directors will be entitled to reimbursement of expenses incurred in the performance of their duties to the Company.
The foregoing overview is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Proposed Compensation Policy, which is attached as Annex A hereto.
At the Meeting, it is proposed that the following resolution be adopted:
“RESOLVED, to approve the compensation policy for the Company’s officers and directors, as detailed in the Proxy Statement, dated July 26, 2021.”
The Board recommends shareholders vote
“FOR” Proposal No. 2
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PROPOSAL NO. 3
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPENSATION TERMS OF THE COMPANY’S NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
At the Meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve an amendment to the compensation terms of each of our non-executive directors who serve on our Board from time to time, all in accordance with the terms set forth below.
Under the Companies Law, the compensation of directors must comply with the company’s compensation policy and requires the approval of the company’s compensation committee, the board of directors and shareholders, in that order. The Compensation Committee and the Board have reviewed, discussed and approved the proposed changes as detailed hereunder, in light of our Proposed Compensation Policy, and determined that these changes are in line with the terms and conditions of the Proposed Compensation Policy.
Under the Companies Law and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, each of our non-executive directors (other than the chairperson) is currently entitled to fixed annual compensation and to an additional payment for each meeting attended. We currently pay our non-executive directors an annual fee of NIS 49,380 and a per-meeting fee of NIS 1,275. In addition, each of our non-executive directors also received, a one-time grant of options to purchase 750,000 Ordinary Shares under the Incentive Plan, subject to a three-year vesting schedule and a six-year term.
It is proposed that, as compensation for their services, each of our non-executive directors (other than the chairperson if compensated under a separate arrangement) will receive a fixed quarterly payment of NIS 33,000, with no per-meeting attendance fee.
In addition, each of our non-executive directors (other than the chairperson if compensated under a separate arrangement) shall be entitled to a one-time grant of options to purchase 2,000,000 Ordinary Shares under the Incentive Plan. Such grant will be made initially upon the initial election or appointment of a non-executive director. With respect to our incumbent non-executive directors (other than the chairperson as provided above) and Ms. Tzedef, which is nominated for re-election at the Meeting (if re-elected), the one-time grant, in accordance with this Proposal, will be made upon the conclusion of the Meeting.
The options shall vest over a period of three (3) years commencing on April 1, 2021, with 1/12 of such options vesting at the end of each subsequent three-month period following the grant, (ii) the term of the options will be of six (6) years from the grant date, unless they have been exercised or cancelled in accordance with the terms of and conditions of the applicable incentive plan of the Company, (iii) unless previously exercised or cancelled, the options may be exercised until 180 days from the termination of the tenure of a director, (iv) the exercise price per share of the options will be equal to the average share price of the 30 days prior to the date of grant, (v) the options grant will be in accordance and pursuant to Section 102 of the Income Tax Ordinance [New Version] (“Tax Ordinance”), if applicable, and (vi) the options will be accelerated upon the closing of a material transaction, resulting in change of control of the Company.
The proposed terms of compensation were approved by our Compensation Committee and the Board and are not consistent with our current Compensation Policy, though such proposed terms are consistent with the Proposed Compensation Policy as further described in Proposal No. 2.
At the Meeting, it is proposed that the following resolution be adopted:
“RESOLVED, to approve the amendment of compensation terms of the Company’s non-executive directors (other than the chairperson if compensated under a separate arrangement), as detailed in the Proxy Statement, dated July 26, 2021.”
The Board recommends shareholders vote
“FOR” Proposal No. 3
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PROPOSAL NO. 4
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPENSATION TERMS OF MR. ELIYAHU YORESH,
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMPANY’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS
At the Meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve an amendment to the compensation terms of Mr. Eliyahu Yoresh, our chairperson of the Board, all in accordance with the terms set forth below.
Mr. Yoresh was appointed by the Board as the active chairman of the Board on February 2, 2020, as approved by our shareholders on July 9, 2020. As approved by the shareholders on July 9, 2020, Mr. Yoresh current compensation package includes a monthly fee in the amount of NIS 25,000, which includes payment for participation in Board (or Board committee) meetings. In addition, Mr. Yoresh is entitled to an annual target-based bonus of up to NIS 200,000 based on measurable objectives. Mr. Yoresh, as each of our non-executive directors, also received a one-time grant of options to purchase 750,000 Ordinary Shares under the Incentive Plan, subject to a three-year vesting schedule and a six-year term.
Due to the company request to increase the involvement and capacity of the chairperson of the Board, it is proposed to approve the following adjusted terms of compensation of Mr. Yoresh:
- a monthly fee of NIS 45,000 plus VAT, which will include payment for participation in Board (or Board committee) meetings, effective as of May 2021;
- (i) an annual target based bonus of up to 6 monthly salaries; and (ii) an additional overachievement bonus of up to 6 monthly salaries. The composition and weight afforded to each target and overachievement component shall be in accordance with the bonus structure set forth below:
● | Company performance measures of strategic goals and related objectives – 35%; | |
● | Company performance measures of material transaction or material profitability/revenues – 25%; | |
● | Company performance measures of revenues and/or loss reduction – 20%; and | |
● | Company performance measures of achieving commercialization of Company’s technology – 20%. |
- a one-time grant of options to purchase 6,000,000 Ordinary Shares under the Incentive Plan. The options shall vest over a period of three (3) years commencing on April 1,2021, with 1/12 of such options vesting at the end of each subsequent three-month period following the grant, (ii) the term of the options will be of six (6) years from the grant date, unless they have been exercised or cancelled in accordance with the terms of and conditions of the applicable incentive plan of the Company, (iii) unless previously exercised or cancelled, the options may be exercised until 180 days from the termination of Mr. Yoresh’ tenure as a chairman, (iv) the exercise price per share of the options will be equal to the average share price of the 30 days prior to the date of grant, (v) the options grant will be in accordance and pursuant to Section 102 of the Tax Ordinance, if applicable, and (vi) the options will be accelerated upon the closing of a material transaction, resulting in change of control of the Company.
The proposed terms of compensation were approved by our Compensation Committee and the Board and are not consistent with our current Compensation Policy, though such proposed terms are consistent with the Proposed Compensation Policy as further described in Proposal No. 2.
When considering the proposed compensation terms, the Compensation Committee and the Board considered numerous factors, including a benchmark analysis of the compensation terms of other active chairperson of boards of director in several peer companies as well as Mr. Yoresh’s performance and contribution to the Company.
At the Meeting, it is proposed that the following resolution be adopted:
“RESOLVED, to approve the amendment of the compensation terms of the Company’s chairman of the Board, as detailed in the Proxy Statement, dated July 26, 2021.”
The Board recommends shareholders vote
“FOR” Proposal No. 4
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PROPOSAL NO. 5
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPENSATION TERMS OF MR. LIRON CARMEL, COMPANY’S CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
At the Meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve an amendment to the compensation terms of Mr. Liron Carmel, our Chief Executive Officer, all in accordance with the terms set forth below.
Mr. Liron Carmel was appointed as our Chief Executive Officer, effective as of April 1, 2019. Mr. Carmel is responsible for the ongoing management of our Company and its subsidiaries, initiating new opportunities and leading our business development activities. As the Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Mr. Carmel’s leadership and command of the business have been critical to the Company’s success, and he has been a pillar in the execution of the Company’s strategy.
Mr. Carmel current monthly consulting fee is NIS 41,500 plus VAT. Mr. Carmel is further entitled for annual bonus of up to NIS 215,000 plus VAT, based on measurable objectives to be determined by the Compensation Committee and approved by the Board for the applicable fiscal year, while up to 25% of such annual bonus may be discretionary and not subject to measurable performance indexes and for other customary benefits. In addition, Mr. Carmel was granted with options to purchase up to 1,250,000 Ordinary Shares under the Incentive Plan, subject to a four-year vesting schedule and a six-year term.
Due to the increase in the Company’s business activities, it is proposed to approve the following adjusted terms of compensation of Mr. Liron Carmel:
- a monthly fee of NIS 60,000 plus VAT for a 80% position, effective as of May 2021;
- (i) an annual target based bonus of up to 6 monthly salaries; and (ii) an additional overachievement bonus of up to 6 monthly salaries based on measurable objectives to be determined by the Compensation Committee and approved by the Board for the applicable fiscal year. Up to 30% of such annual target based bonus may be discretionary and not subject to measurable performance indexes; and
- a one-time grant of options to purchase 6,000,000 Ordinary Shares under the Incentive Plan. The options will vest over a period of three (3) years commencing on April 1, 2021, with 1/12 of such options vesting at the end of each subsequent three-month period following the grant, (ii) the term of the options will be of six (6) years from the grant date, unless they have been exercised or cancelled in accordance with the terms of and conditions of the applicable incentive plan of the Company, (iii) unless previously exercised or cancelled, the options may be exercised until 180 days following the termination of the engagement, (iv) the exercise price per share of the options will be equal to the average share price of the 30 days prior to the date of grant, (v) the options grant will be in accordance and pursuant to Section 102 of the Tax Ordinance, if applicable, and (vi) the options will be accelerated upon the closing of a material transaction, resulting in change of control of the Company.
The proposed terms of compensation were approved by our Compensation Committee and the Board and are not consistent with our current Compensation Policy, though such proposed terms are consistent with the Proposed Compensation Policy as further described in Proposal No. 2.
When considering the proposed compensation terms, the Compensation Committee and the Board considered numerous factors, including a benchmark analysis of the compensation terms of other chief executive officers in several peer companies as well as Mr. Carmel’s performance and contribution to the Company.
At the Meeting, it is proposed that the following resolution be adopted:
“RESOLVED, to approve the amendment of the compensation terms of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, as detailed in the Proxy Statement, dated July 26, 2021.”
The Board recommends shareholders vote
“FOR” Proposal No. 5
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PROPOSAL NO. 6
APPROVAL OF A REVERSE SPLIT OF THE COMPANY’S ORDINARY SHARES
On June 29, 2021, our board of directors resolved to effect a reverse split of the Company’s authorized and outstanding Ordinary Shares at a ratio of 20:1, such that every 20 Ordinary Shares shall be consolidated into one Ordinary Share and consequently each ADS will represent one Ordinary Share instead of 20 Ordinary Shares. Such resolution is subject to the approval of our shareholders.
We are therefore seeking approval of the shareholders to effect a reverse split of the Company’s outstanding Ordinary Shares at a ratio of 20:1, such that every 20 Ordinary Shares shall be consolidated into one Ordinary Share (the “Reverse Split”) and to amend our amended and restated articles of association (the “Articles of Association”) to effect such Reverse Split.
In addition and on the same ground, the Board has determined, subject to the implementation of the Reverse Split, that each outstanding ADS will be adjusted such that once the Reverse Split is implemented each ADS will represent one Ordinary Share, instead of twenty (20) pre-Reverse Split Ordinary Shares (the “Adjustment”). We believe that the Reverse Split and the Adjustment will not impact the price of our ADSs nor any shareholder’s percentage ownership of the Company or voting power, except for minimal effects resulting from the treatment of fractional shares.
If the Reverse Split is implemented, the number of authorized as well as the issued and outstanding Ordinary Shares would be reduced in accordance with the Reverse Split ratio. In addition, if the Reverse Split is implemented, the exercise price and the number of Ordinary Shares issuable pursuant to outstanding options and warrants will be proportionately adjusted pursuant to the terms of the respective options and warrants in connection with the Reverse Split. Furthermore, upon completion of the Reverse Split, the number of Ordinary Shares issuable pursuant to our incentive plans shall be appropriately adjusted.
No fractional shares will be issued as a result of the Reverse Split. In accordance with our Articles of Association, all fractional shares will be rounded to the nearest whole Ordinary Share, such that only shareholders holding fractional consolidated shares of more than one half of one whole share shall be entitled to receive one consolidated share.
Upon the implementation of the Reverse Split, we intend to treat shares held by shareholders through a bank, broker, custodian or other nominee in the same manner as registered shareholders whose shares are registered in their names. Banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees will be instructed to affect the Reverse Split for their beneficial holders holding our Ordinary Shares in street name. However, these banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees may have different procedures than registered shareholders for processing the Reverse Split. Shareholders who hold our Ordinary Shares with a bank, broker, custodian or other nominee and who have any questions in this regard are encouraged to contact their banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees.
At the Meeting, it is proposed that the following resolution be adopted:
“RESOLVED, to approve a reverse share split of the Company’s Ordinary Shares at a ratio of 20:1, such that every 20 ordinary shares shall be consolidated into one Ordinary Share, to be effective on a date to be determined by the Board, and to amend the Company’s Articles of Association accordingly as detailed in the Proxy Statement, dated July 26, 2021.”
The Board recommends shareholders vote
“FOR” Proposal No. 6
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PROPOSAL NO. 7
APPROVAL OF THE REAPPOINTMENT OF AUDITORS
At the Meeting, following the approval of our audit committee and Board, shareholders will be asked to approve the re-appointment of Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co., a member firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, as the Company’s independent auditors for the year ending December 31, 2020, and to serve until the annual general meeting of shareholders to be held in 2022. Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co. has no relationship with the Company or with any affiliate of the Company except as auditors.
Under the Companies Law and our Articles of Association, the shareholders of the Company are authorized to appoint the Company’s independent auditors. In addition, under our Articles of Association, the Board is authorized to determine the independent auditor’s remuneration. The Listing Rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market require that the Company’s audit committee approve the reappointment and remuneration of the independent auditor.
For information regarding the total compensation that was paid by the Company and its subsidiaries to its independent auditors, please see Item 16C of our Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2020, filed on Form 20-F with the Commission on May 14, 2021, and accessible through the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov.
At the Meeting, it is proposed that the following resolution be adopted:
“RESOLVED, to approve and ratify the appointment of Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co., a member firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, as the Company’s independent auditors for the year ending December 31, 2021, and its service until the next annual general meeting of shareholders to be held in 2022.”
The Board recommends shareholders vote
“FOR” Proposal No. 7
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OTHER BUSINESS
Management knows of no other business to be acted upon at the Meeting. However, if any other business properly comes before the Meeting, the persons named in the enclosed proxy will vote upon such matters in accordance with their best judgment.
By the Order of the Board of Directors, | |
Eliyahu Yoresh | |
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company | |
Dated: July 26, 2021 |
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Annex A
COMPENSATION POLICY
MEDIGUS LTD.
Compensation Policy for Executive Officers and Directors
(As Adopted on [_____], 2021)
A. Overview and Objectives
1. | Introduction |
This document sets forth the Compensation Policy for Executive Officers and Directors (this “Compensation Policy” or “Policy”) of Medigus Ltd. (“Medigus” or the “Company”), in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Law, 5759-1999 and the regulations promulgated thereunder (the “Companies Law”).
Compensation is a key component of Medigus’ overall human capital strategy to attract, retain, reward, and motivate highly skilled individuals that will enhance Medigus’ value and otherwise assist Medigus to reach its business and financial long-term goals. Accordingly, the structure of this Policy is established to tie the compensation of each officer to Medigus’ goals and performance.
For purposes of this Policy, “Executive Officers” shall mean “Office Holders” as such term is defined in Section 1 of the Companies Law, excluding, unless otherwise expressly indicated herein, Medigus’ directors.
This policy is subject to applicable law and is not intended, and should not be interpreted as limiting or derogating from, provisions of applicable law to the extent not permitted.
This Policy shall apply to compensation agreements and arrangements which will be approved after the date on which this Policy is adopted and shall serve as Medigus’ Compensation Policy for five (5) years, commencing as of its adoption, unless amended earlier.
The Compensation Committee and the Board of Directors of Medigus (the “Compensation Committee” and the “Board”, respectively) shall review and reassess the adequacy of this Policy from time to time, as required by the Companies Law.
2. | Objectives |
Medigus’ objectives and goals in setting this Policy are to attract, motivate and retain experienced and talented leaders who will contribute to Medigus’ success and enhance shareholder value, while demonstrating professionalism in an achievement-oriented and merit-based culture that rewards long-term excellence, and embedding and modeling Medigus’ core values as part of a motivated behavior. To that end, this Policy is designed, among other things:
2.1. | To closely align the interests of the Executive Officers with those of Medigus’ shareholders in order to enhance shareholder value; |
2.2. | To align a significant portion of the Executive Officers’ compensation with Medigus’ short and long-term goals and performance; |
2.3. | To provide the Executive Officers with a structured compensation package, including competitive salaries, performance-motivating cash and equity incentive programs and benefits, and to be able to present to each Executive Officer an opportunity to advance in a growing organization; |
2.4. | To strengthen the retention and the motivation of Executive Officers in the long-term; |
2.5. | To provide appropriate awards in order to incentivize superior individual excellence and corporate performance; and |
2.6. | To maintain consistency in the way Executive Officers are compensated. |
3. | Compensation Instruments |
Compensation instruments under this Policy may include the following:
3.1. | Base salary; |
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3.2. | Benefits; |
3.3. | Cash bonuses; |
3.4. | Equity based compensation; |
3.5. | Change of control provisions; and |
3.6. | Retirement and termination terms. |
4. | Overall Compensation - Ratio Between Fixed and Variable Compensation |
4.1. | This Policy aims to balance the mix of “Fixed Compensation” (comprised of base salary and benefits) and “Variable Compensation” (comprised of cash bonuses and equity-based compensation) in order to, among other things, appropriately incentivize Executive Officers to meet Medigus’ short and long-term goals while taking into consideration the Company’s need to manage a variety of business risks. |
4.2. | The total annual target bonus and equity-based compensation per vesting annum (based on the fair market value at the time of grant calculated on a linear basis) of each Executive Officer shall not exceed 95% of such Executive Officer’s total compensation package for such year. |
5. | Inter-Company Compensation Ratio |
5.1. | In the process of drafting this Policy, Medigus’ Board and Compensation Committee have examined the ratio between employer cost associated with the engagement of the Executive Officers, including directors, and the average and median employer cost associated with the engagement of Medigus’ other employees (including contractor employees as defined in the Companies Law) (the “Ratio”). |
5.2. | The possible ramifications of the Ratio on the daily working environment in Medigus were examined and will continue to be examined by Medigus from time to time in order to ensure that levels of executive compensation, as compared to the overall workforce will not have a negative impact on work relations in Medigus. |
B. Base Salary and Benefits
6. | Base Salary |
6.1. | A base salary provides stable compensation to Executive Officers and allows Medigus to attract and retain competent executive talent and maintain a stable management team. The base salary varies among Executive Officers, and is individually determined according to the educational background, prior vocational experience, qualifications, corporate role, business responsibilities and past performance of each Executive Officer. |
6.2. | Since a competitive base salary is essential to Medigus’ ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, Medigus will seek to establish a base salary that is competitive with base salaries paid to Executive Officers in a peer group of other companies operating in technology sectors that are as much as possible similar in their characteristics to Medigus, while considering, among other things, such companies’ size and characteristics including their revenues, profitability rate, growth rates, market capitalization, number of employees and area of operations (in Israel or globally), the list of which shall be reviewed and approved by the Compensation Committee at least every two years. To that end, Medigus shall utilize comparative market data and practices as a reference, including a survey comparing and analyzing the level of the overall compensation package offered to an Executive Officer of the Company with compensation packages for persons serving in similar positions (to that of the relevant officer) in the peer group. Such compensation survey may be conducted internally or through an external independent consultant. |
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6.3. | The Compensation Committee and the Board may periodically consider and approve base salary adjustments for Executive Officers. The main considerations for salary adjustment will be similar to those used in initially determining the base salary, but may also include change of role or responsibilities, recognition for professional achievements, regulatory or contractual requirements, budgetary constraints or market trends. The Compensation Committee and the Board will also consider the previous and existing compensation arrangements of the Executive Officer whose base salary is being considered for adjustment. Any limitation herein based on the annual base salary shall be calculated based on the monthly base salary applicable at the time of consideration of the respective grant or benefit. |
7. | Benefits |
7.1. | The following benefits may be granted to the Executive Officers in order, among other things, to comply with legal requirements: |
7.1.1. | Vacation days in accordance with market practice; |
7.1.2. | Sick days in accordance with market practice; |
7.1.3. | Convalescence pay according to applicable law; |
7.1.4. | Monthly remuneration for a study fund, as allowed by applicable law and with reference to Medigus’ practice and the practice in peer group companies (including contributions on bonus payments); |
7.1.5. | Medigus shall contribute on behalf of the Executive Officer to an insurance policy or a pension fund, as allowed by applicable law and with reference to Medigus’ policies and procedures and the practice in peer group companies (including contributions on bonus payments); and |
7.1.6. | Medigus shall contribute on behalf of the Executive Officer towards work disability insurance, as allowed by applicable law and with reference to Medigus’ policies and procedures and to the practice in peer group companies. |
7.2. | Non-Israeli Executive Officers may receive other similar, comparable or customary benefits as applicable in the relevant jurisdiction in which they are employed. Such customary benefits shall be determined based on the methods described in Section 6.2 of this Policy (with the necessary changes and adjustments). |
7.3. | In the events of relocation and/or repatriation of an Executive Officer to another geography, such Executive Officer may receive other similar, comparable or customary benefits as applicable in the relevant jurisdiction in which he or she is employed or additional payments to reflect adjustments in the cost of living. Such benefits may include reimbursement for out-of-pocket one-time payments and other ongoing expenses, such as a housing allowance, a car allowance, home leave visit, etc. |
7.4. | Medigus may offer additional benefits to its Executive Officers, which will be comparable to customary market practices, such as, but not limited to: cellular and land line phone benefits, company car and travel benefits, reimbursement of business travel including a daily stipend when traveling and other business related expenses, insurances, other benefits (such as newspaper subscriptions, academic and professional studies), etc., provided, however, that such additional benefits shall be determined in accordance with Medigus’ policies and procedures. |
C. Cash Bonuses
8. | Annual Cash Bonuses - The Objective |
8.1. | Compensation in the form of an annual cash bonus is an important element in aligning the Executive Officers’ compensation with Medigus’ objectives and business goals. Therefore, annual cash bonuses will reflect a pay-for-performance element, with payout eligibility and levels determined based on actual financial and operational results, in addition to other factors the Compensation Committee may determine, including individual performance. |
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8.2. | An annual cash bonus may be awarded to Executive Officers upon the attainment of pre-set periodical objectives and individual targets determined by the Compensation Committee (and, if required by law, by the Board) for each fiscal year, or in connection with such officer’s engagement, in case of newly hired Executive Officers, taking into account Medigus’ short and long-term goals, as well as its compliance and risk management policies. The Compensation Committee and the Board shall also determine applicable minimum thresholds that must be met for entitlement to the annual cash bonus (all or any portion thereof) and the formula for calculating any annual cash bonus payout, with respect to each fiscal year, for each Executive Officer. In special circumstances, as determined by the Compensation Committee and the Board (e.g., regulatory changes, significant changes in Medigus’ business environment, a significant organizational change, significant merger and acquisition events, etc.), the Compensation Committee and the Board may modify the objectives and/or their relative weight during the fiscal year, or may modify payouts following the conclusion of the year. |
8.3. | In the event that the employment of an Executive Officer is terminated prior to the end of a fiscal year, the Company may (but shall not be obligated to) pay such Executive Officer an annual cash bonus (which may or may not be pro-rated) assuming the Executive Officer is otherwise entitled to an annual cash bonus. |
8.4. | The actual annual cash bonus to be paid to Executive Officers shall be approved by the Compensation Committee and the Board. |
9. | Annual Cash Bonuses - The Formula |
Executive Officers other than the CEO
9.1. | The performance objectives for the annual cash bonus of Medigus’ Executive Officers, other than the chief executive officer (the “CEO”), may be approved by Medigus’ CEO (in lieu of the Compensation Committee) and may be based on company, division/ departmental/business unit and individual objectives. Measurable performance objectives, which include the objectives and the weight to be assigned to each achievement in the overall evaluation, may be based on actual financial and operational results, personal objectives, operational objectives, project milestones objectives or investment in human capital objectives. The Company may also grant annual cash bonuses to Medigus’ Executive Officers, other than the CEO, on a discretionary basis. |
9.2. | The target annual cash bonus that an Executive Officer, other than the CEO, will be entitled to receive for any given fiscal year, will not exceed 100 % of such Executive Officer’s annual base salary. |
9.3. | The maximum annual cash bonus, including for overachievement performance, that an Executive Officer, other than the CEO, will be entitled to receive for any given fiscal year, will not exceed 200 % of such Executive Officer’s annual base salary. |
CEO
9.4. | The annual cash bonus of Medigus’ CEO will be mainly based on measurable performance objectives and subject to minimum thresholds as provided in Section 8.2 above. Such measurable performance objectives will be determined annually by Medigus’ Compensation Committee (and, if required by law, by Medigus’ Board) and will be based on company and personal objectives. These measurable performance objectives, which include the objectives and the weight to be assigned to each achievement in the overall evaluation, will be based on overall company performance measures, which are based on actual financial and operational results, such as (by way of example and not by way of limitation) revenues, sales, operating income, cash flow or the Company’s annual operating plan and long-term plan. |
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9.5. | The less significant part of the annual cash bonus granted to Medigus’ CEO, and in any event not more than 30% of the annual cash bonus, may be based on a discretionary evaluation of the CEO’s overall performance by the Compensation Committee and the Board based on quantitative and qualitative criteria. |
9.6. | The target annual cash bonus that the CEO will be entitled to receive for any given fiscal year, will not exceed 100% of his or her annual base salary. |
9.7. | The maximum annual cash bonus including for overachievement performance that the CEO will be entitled to receive for any given fiscal year, will not exceed 200% of his or her annual base salary. |
10. | Other Bonuses |
10.1. | Special Bonus. Medigus may grant its Executive Officers a special bonus as an award for special achievements (such as in connection with mergers and acquisitions, offerings, achieving target budget or business plan objectives under exceptional circumstances, or special recognition in case of retirement) or as a retention award at the CEO’s discretion for Executive Officers other than the CEO (and in the CEO’s case, at the Compensation Committee’s and the Board’s discretion), subject to any additional approval as may be required by the Companies Law (the “Special Bonus”). Any such Special Bonus will not exceed 200% of the Executive Officer’s annual base salary. A Special Bonus can be paid, in whole or in part, in equity in lieu of cash and the value of any such equity component of a Special Bonus shall be determined in accordance with Section 13.3 below. |
10.2. | Signing Bonus. Medigus may grant a newly recruited Executive Officer a signing bonus. Any such signing bonus shall be granted and determined at the CEO’s discretion for Executive Officers other than the CEO (and in the CEO’s case, at the Compensation Committee’s and the Board’s discretion), subject to any additional approval as may be required by the Companies Law (the “Signing Bonus”). Any such Signing Bonus will not exceed 100% of the Executive Officer’s annual base salary. |
10.3. | Relocation/ Repatriation Bonus. Medigus may grant its Executive Officers a special bonus in the event of relocation or repatriation of an Executive Officer to another geography (the “Relocation Bonus”). Any such Relocation bonus will include customary benefits associated with such relocation and its monetary value will not exceed 100% of the Executive Officer’s annual base salary. |
11. | Compensation Recovery (“Clawback”) |
11.1. | In the event of an accounting restatement, Medigus shall be entitled to recover from its Executive Officers the bonus compensation or performance-based equity compensation in the amount in which such compensation exceeded what would have been paid based on the financial statements, as restated, provided that a claim is made by Medigus prior to the second anniversary following the filing of such restated financial statements. |
11.2. | Notwithstanding the aforesaid, the compensation recovery will not be triggered in the following events: |
11.2.1. | The financial restatement is required due to changes in the applicable financial reporting standards; or |
11.2.2. | The Compensation Committee has determined that Clawback proceedings in the specific case would be impossible, impractical, or not commercially or legally efficient. |
11.3. | Nothing in this Section 11 derogates from any other “Clawback” or similar provisions regarding disgorging of profits imposed on Executive Officers by virtue of applicable securities laws or a separate contractual obligation. |
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D. Equity Based Compensation
12. | The Objective |
12.1. | The equity-based compensation for Medigus’ Executive Officers will be designed in a manner consistent with the underlying objectives of the Company in determining the base salary and the annual cash bonus, with its main objectives being to enhance the alignment between the Executive Officers’ interests with the long-term interests of Medigus and its shareholders, and to strengthen the retention and the motivation of Executive Officers in the long term. In addition, since equity-based awards are structured to vest over several years, their incentive value to recipients is aligned with longer-term strategic plans. |
12.2. | The equity-based compensation offered by Medigus is intended to be in the form of share options and/or other equity-based awards, such as restricted shares, RSUs or performance stock units, in accordance with the Company’s equity incentive plan in place as may be updated from time to time. |
12.3. | All equity-based incentives granted to Executive Officers (other than bonuses paid in equity in lieu of cash) shall normally be subject to vesting periods in order to promote long-term retention of the awarded Executive Officers. Unless determined otherwise in a specific award agreement or in a specific compensation plan approved by the Compensation Committee and the Board, grants to Executive Officers other than non-employee directors shall vest based on time, gradually over a period of at least 2-4 years, or based on performance. The exercise price of options shall be determined in accordance with Medigus’ policies, the main terms of which shall be disclosed in the annual report of Medigus. |
12.4. | All other terms of the equity awards shall be in accordance with Medigus’ incentive plans and other related practices and policies. Accordingly, the Board may, following approval by the Compensation Committee, make modifications to such awards consistent with the terms of such incentive plans, subject to any additional approval as may be required by the Companies Law. |
13. | General Guidelines for the Grant of Awards |
13.1. | The equity-based compensation shall be granted from time to time and be individually determined and awarded according to the performance, educational background, prior business experience, qualifications, corporate role and the personal responsibilities of the Executive Officer. |
13.2. | In determining the equity-based compensation granted to each Executive Officer, the Compensation Committee and the Board shall consider the factors specified in Section 13.1 above, and in any event, the total fair market value of an annual equity-based compensation award at the time of grant (not including bonuses paid in equity in lieu of cash) shall not exceed: (i) with respect to the CEO - the higher of (w) 300% of his or her annual base salary or (x) 2% of the Company’s fair market value at the time of approval of the grant by the Board; and (ii) with respect to each of the other Executive Officers - the higher of (y) 100% of his or her annual base salary or (z) 0.5% of the Company’s fair market value at the time of approval of the grant by the Board. |
13.3. | The fair market value of the equity-based compensation for the Executive Officers will be determined by using the Black Scholes formula or according to other acceptable valuation practices at the time of grant, in each case, as determined by the Compensation Committee and the Board. |
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E. Retirement and Termination of Service Arrangements
14. | Advanced Notice Period |
Medigus may provide an Executive Officer, on the basis of his/her seniority in the Company, his/her contribution to the Company’s goals and achievements and the circumstances of his/her retirement prior notice of termination of up to twelve (12) months in the case of the CEO and chairperson of the Board and six (6) months in the case of other Executive Officers, during which the Executive Officer may be entitled to all of the compensation elements, and to the continuation of vesting of his/her equity-based compensation. Such advance notice may or may not be provided in addition to severance, provided, however, that the Compensation Committee shall take into consideration the Executive Officer’s entitlement to advance notice in establishing any entitlement to severance and vice versa.
15. | Adjustment Period |
Medigus may provide an additional adjustment period of up to six (6) months to the CEO or to any other Executive Officer according to his/her seniority in the Company, his/her contribution to the Company’s goals and achievements and the circumstances of retirement, during which the Executive Officer may be entitled to all of the compensation elements, and to the continuation of vesting of his/her equity-based compensation.
16. | Additional Retirement and Termination Benefits |
Medigus may provide additional retirement and terminations benefits and payments as may be required by applicable law (e.g., mandatory severance pay under Israeli labor laws), or which will be comparable to customary market practices.
17. | Non-Compete Grant |
Upon termination of employment and subject to applicable law, Medigus may grant to its Executive Officers a non-compete grant as an incentive to refrain from competing with Medigus for a defined period of time. The terms and conditions of the non-compete grant shall be decided by the Board and shall not exceed such Executive Officer’s monthly base salary multiplied by twelve (12). The Board shall consider the existing entitlements of the Executive Officer in connection with the consideration of any non-compete grant.
18. | Limitation Retirement and Termination of Service Arrangements |
The total non-statutory payments under Section 14-17 above for a given Executive Officer shall not exceed the Executive Officer’s monthly base salary multiplied by twenty-four (24). The limitation under this Section 18 does not apply to benefits and payments provided under other chapters of this Policy.
F. Exculpation, Indemnification and Insurance
19. | Exculpation |
Each and every Director and Executive Officer may be exempted in advance for all or any of his/her liability for damage in consequence of a breach of the duty of care, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law.
20. | Insurance and Indemnification |
20.1. | Medigus may indemnify its directors and Executive Officers to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, for any liability and expense that may be imposed on the director or the Executive Officer, as provided in the indemnity agreement between such individuals and Medigus all subject to applicable law and the Company’s articles of association. |
20.2. | Medigus will provide directors’ and officers’ liability insurance (the “Insurance Policy”) for its directors and Executive Officers as follows: |
20.2.1. | The limit of liability of the insurer shall not exceed the greater of $50 million or 50% of the Company’s shareholders equity based on the most recent financial statements of the Company at the time of approval of the Insurance Policy by the Compensation Committee; and |
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20.2.2. | The Insurance Policy, as well as the limit of liability and the premium for each extension or renewal shall be approved by the Compensation Committee (and, if required by law, by the Board) which shall determine that the sums are reasonable considering Medigus’ exposures, the scope of coverage and the market conditions and that the Insurance Policy reflects the current market conditions and that it shall not materially affect the Company’s profitability, assets or liabilities. |
20.3. | Upon circumstances to be approved by the Compensation Committee (and, if required by law, by the Board), Medigus shall be entitled to enter into a “run off” Insurance Policy (the “Run-Off Policy”) of up to seven (7) years, with the same insurer or any other insurance, as follows: |
20.3.1. | The limit of liability of the insurer shall not exceed the greater of $50 million or 50% of the Company’s shareholders equity based on the most recent financial statements of the Company at the time of approval by the Compensation Committee; and |
20.3.2. | The Run-Off Policy, as well as the limit of liability and the premium for each extension or renewal shall be approved by the Compensation Committee (and, if required by law, by the Board) which shall determine that the sums are reasonable considering the Company’s exposures covered under such policy, the scope of coverage and the market conditions and that the Run-Off Policy reflects the current market conditions and that it shall not materially affect the Company’s profitability, assets or liabilities. |
20.4. | Medigus may extend an Insurance Policy in effect to include coverage for liability pursuant to a future public offering of securities as follows: |
20.4.1. | The Insurance Policy, as well as the additional premium shall be approved by the Compensation Committee (and if required by law, by the Board) which shall determine that the sums are reasonable considering the exposures pursuant to such public offering of securities, the scope of coverage and the market conditions and that the Insurance Policy reflects the current market conditions, and that it does not materially affect the Company’s profitability, assets or liabilities. |
G. Arrangements upon Change of Control
21. | The following benefits may be granted to the Executive Officers (in addition to, or in lieu of, the benefits applicable in the case of any retirement or termination of service) upon or in connection with a “Change of Control” or, where applicable, in the event of a Change of Control following which the employment of the Executive Officer is terminated or adversely adjusted in a material way: |
21.1. | Acceleration of vesting of outstanding options or other equity-based awards; |
21.2. | Extension of the exercise period of equity-based grants for Medigus’ Executive Officers for a period of up to one (1) year, following the date of termination of employment; |
21.3. | Up to an additional six (6) months of continued base salary and benefits following the date of termination of employment (the “Additional Adjustment Period”). For avoidance of doubt, such additional Adjustment Period may be in addition to the advance notice and adjustment periods pursuant to Sections 14 and 15 of this Policy, but subject to the limitation set forth in Section 18 of this Policy; and |
21.4. | A cash bonus not to exceed 200% of the Executive Officer’s annual base salary in case of an Executive Officer other than the CEO and 250% in case of the CEO. |
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H. Board of Directors Compensation
22. | All Medigus’ non-employee Board members may be entitled to an annual cash fee retainer of up to $40,000 and up to $240,000 for the chairperson of Medigus’ Board. The chairperson of Medigus’ Board may be paid an annual bonus of up to $120,000. |
23. | The compensation of the Company’s external directors, if any are required and elected, shall be in accordance with the Companies Regulations (Rules Regarding the Compensation and Expenses of an External Director), 5760-2000, as amended by the Companies Regulations (Relief for Public Companies Traded in Stock Exchange Outside of Israel), 5760-2000, as such regulations may be amended from time to time. |
24. | Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 22 above, in special circumstances, such as in the case of a professional director, an expert director or a director who makes a unique contribution to the Company, such director’s compensation may be different than the compensation of all other directors and may be greater than the maximum amount allowed under Section 22. |
25. | Each non-employee member of Medigus’ Board may be granted equity-based compensation. The total fair market value of a "welcome" or an annual equity-based compensation at the time of grant shall not exceed the higher of (i) $120,000 or (ii) 0.5% of the Company’s fair market value at the time of approval of the grant by the Board; and in the case of the chairperson of the Board - the higher of (i) 300% of his or her annual base salary or (ii) 2% of the Company’s fair market value at the time of approval of the grant by the Board. |
26. | All other terms of the equity awards shall be in accordance with Medigus’ incentive plans and other related practices and policies. Accordingly, the Board may, following approval by the Compensation Committee, make modifications to such awards consistent with the terms of such incentive plans, subject to any additional approval as may be required by the Companies Law. |
27. | In addition, members of Medigus’ Board may be entitled to reimbursement of expenses in connection with the performance of their duties. |
28. | The compensation (and limitations) stated under Section H will not apply to directors who serve as Executive Officers. |
I. Miscellaneous
29. | Nothing in this Policy shall be deemed to grant to any of Medigus’ Executive Officers, employees, directors, or any third party any right or privilege in connection with their employment by or service to the Company, nor deemed to require Medigus to provide any compensation or benefits to any person. Such rights and privileges shall be governed by applicable personal employment agreements or other separate compensation arrangements entered into between Medigus and the recipient of such compensation or benefits. The Board may determine that none or only part of the payments, benefits and perquisites detailed in this Policy shall be granted, and is authorized to cancel or suspend a compensation package or any part of it. |
30. | An Immaterial Change in the Terms of Employment of an Executive Officer other than the CEO may be approved by the CEO, provided that the amended terms of employment are in accordance with this Policy. An “Immaterial Change in the Terms of Employment” means a change in the terms of employment of an Executive Officer with an annual total cost to the Company not exceeding an amount equal to two (2) monthly base salaries of such employee. |
31. | In the event that new regulations or law amendment in connection with Executive Officers’ and directors’ compensation will be enacted following the adoption of this Policy, Medigus may follow such new regulations or law amendments, even if such new regulations are in contradiction to the compensation terms set forth herein. |
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This Policy is designed solely for the benefit of Medigus and none of the provisions thereof are intended to provide any rights or remedies to any person other than Medigus.
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