AmBase Corporation
Annual Report on Form 10-K
December 31, 2023
| PART I | | Page |
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Item 1. | | 1 |
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Item 1A. | | 2 |
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Item 1B. | | 8 |
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Item 1C. | | 8 |
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Item 2. | | 8 |
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Item 3. | | 9 |
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Item 4. | | 9 |
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| PART II | | |
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Item 5. | | 9 |
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Item 6. | | 9 |
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Item 7. | | 9 |
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Item 8. | | 14 |
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Item 9. | | 36 |
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Item 9A. | | 36 |
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Item 9B. | | 37 |
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Item 9C. | | 37 |
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| PART III | | |
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Item 10. | | 37 |
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Item 11. | | 39 |
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Item 12. | | 49 |
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Item 13. | | 50 |
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Item 14. | | 51 |
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| PART IV | | |
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Item 15. | | 52 |
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Item 16. | | 54 |
PART I
General
AmBase Corporation (the “Company” or “AmBase”) is a Delaware corporation that was incorporated in 1975. AmBase is a holding company. At December 31, 2023, the Company’s assets consisted primarily of cash and cash equivalents. The Company is engaged in the management of its assets and liabilities.
In June 2013, the Company purchased an equity interest in a real estate development property through a joint venture agreement to purchase and develop real property located at 105 through 111 West 57th Street in New York, New York (the “111 West 57th Property”). The Company is engaged in material disputes and litigation with regard to the 111 West 57th Property. Despite ongoing litigation challenging the legitimacy of the actions taken in connection with the “Strict Foreclosure”, (as defined and further discussed herein), the Company recorded an impairment for the full amount of its equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property in 2017. Prior to the Strict Foreclosure, the carrying value of the Company’s equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property represented a substantial portion of the Company’s assets and net equity value.
For additional information concerning the Company’s recording of an impairment of its equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property in 2017 and the Company’s legal proceedings relating to the 111 West 57th Property, including the Company’s challenge to the Strict Foreclosure, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 3 and Note 8 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
The executive office of the Company is located at 7857 West Sample Road, Suite 134, Coral Springs, Florida 33065. The Company had four (4) full-time and two (2) part-time employees at December 31, 2023.
Background
In August 1988, the Company acquired Carteret Bancorp Inc., which through its principal wholly owned subsidiary Carteret Savings Bank, FA, was principally engaged in retail and consumer banking, and mortgage banking including mortgage servicing. On December 4, 1992, Carteret Savings Bank, FA was placed in receivership and a new institution, Carteret Federal Savings Bank was established to assume the assets and certain liabilities of Carteret Savings Bank, FA.
The Company was a plaintiff in a legal proceeding, commenced in 1993, seeking recovery of damages from the United States Government for the loss of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Carteret Savings Bank, F.A. (the “Supervisory Goodwill” legal proceedings). Pursuant to a Settlement Agreement between the Company, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Receiver (“FDIC-R”) and the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) on behalf of the United States of America (the “United States”), (the “Settlement Agreement”) as approved by the United States Court of Federal Claims (the “Court of Federal Claims”), in October 2012, the United States paid $180,650,000 directly to AmBase (the “Settlement Amount”). On August 6, 2013, Senior Judge Smith issued an opinion which addressed the relief sought by the Company. In summary, the court held that the Settlement Agreement is a contract and that it entitles the Company to receive both “(1) the amount of the tax consequences resulting from taxation of the damages award plus (2) the tax consequences of receiving the first component.” But the Court of Federal Claims did not award an additional amount for the second component at that time given the remaining uncertainty surrounding the ultimate tax treatment of the settlement proceeds and the gross-up, as well as uncertainty relating to the Company’s future income. The Court of Federal Claims indicated that either the Company or the government is entitled to seek further relief “if, and when, the facts justify it.”
Stockholder Inquiries
Stockholder inquiries, including requests for the following: (i) change of address; (ii) replacement of lost stock certificates; (iii) Common Stock name registration changes; (iv) Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q; (v) Annual Reports on Form 10-K; (vi) Current Reports on Form 8-K; (vii) proxy materials; and (viii) information regarding stockholdings, should be directed to:
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC 6201 15th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11219 Attention: Shareholder Services (800) 937-5449 or (718) 921-8200 Ext. 6820 | |
The Company does not maintain a website. Copies of Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Proxy Statements can be obtained from the Company free of charge by mailing a request to the Company as follows:
AmBase Corporation 12 Lincoln Blvd., Suite 202 Emerson, NJ 07630 Attn: Shareholder Services | |
The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Accordingly, the Company’s public reports, including Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Proxy Statements, can be obtained through the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) EDGAR Database available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Materials filed with the SEC may also be read or copied by visiting the SEC’s Public Reference Room, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
The Company is subject to various risks, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, which could have a negative effect on the Company and its financial condition. As a result of these and other factors, the Company may experience material fluctuations in future operating results on a quarterly or annual basis which could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, operating results and stock price. An investment in the Company’s stock involves various risks, including those mentioned below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K (this “Annual Report”), and those that are detailed from time to time in the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should carefully consider the following risk factors, together with all of the other information included or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report, before you decide whether to purchase the Company’s common stock.
Operating Risks
Going Concern
The Company has incurred operating losses and used cash for operating activities for the past several years. The Company has continued to keep operating expenses at a reduced level; however, there can be no assurance that the Company’s current level of operating expenses will not increase or that other uses of cash will not be necessary. The Company believes that based on its current level of operating expenses, its existing cash and cash equivalents may not be sufficient to cover operating cash needs through the twelve month period from the financial statement reporting date. Based on the above factors, management determined there is substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. The financial statements do not include adjustments to the carrying value of assets and liabilities, which might be necessary should the Company not continue in operation.
In order to continue as a going concern, the Company must take steps to manage its current level of cash and cash equivalents, through various ways, including but not limited to, raising additional capital through the sale of equity or debt securities or long term borrowings, which may include additional borrowings from affiliates of the Company, reducing operating expenses, and seeking recoveries from various sources. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to adequately implement these cash management measures, in whole or in part or raise capital or obtain financing on terms acceptable to the Company, if at all.
To provide the necessary cash resources to continue operations and continue the litigation related to the 111 West 57th Property, the Company has commenced a private placement offering (the “Equity Offering”) of 44,200,460 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Shares”) to existing shareholders of the Company (the “Equity Offering”) in reliance on the exemption from registration under Rule 506(c) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The purchase price for one share of Common Stock in the Equity Offering is $0.20. The Company expects to receive gross proceeds of approximately $8.8 million in connection with the Equity Offering before deducting offering expenses. There are no limitations on the Company’s use of such proceeds when received, although it is anticipated that a substantial part of the proceeds will be applied to repayment of existing Company obligations. The Shares are not being registered under the Securities Act and will be “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and will generally be subject to a minimum holding period of six months under Rule 144 before the Shares may be resold. The Shares will be offered and sold only to existing stockholders of record of the Company as of February 28, 2024 (the “Record Date”).
Each qualifying stockholder will be permitted to purchase up to his, her or its pro rata share of the Shares in the Equity Offering, based on the amount of shares of Common Stock owned by such stockholder as of the Record Date, in an amount equal to up to one hundred and eight and one-half percent (108.5%) of the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by such stockholder as of the Record Date. The Equity Offering commenced on or about February 28, 2024, and will remain open for a period of thirty (30) calendar days ending on March 29, 2024 (the “Subscription Deadline”). The Shares will be offered and sold pursuant to a Subscription Agreement (the “Subscription Agreement”) to be entered into by and between the Company and each subscribing stockholder. In connection with the Equity Offering, the Company has entered into a standby purchase agreement dated February 28, 2024 (the “SPA”) with BARC Investments, LLC (“BARC”), an affiliate of the Company owned and controlled by Company directors Alessandra F. Bianco and Richard A. Bianco, Jr. Under the terms of the SPA, BARC has agreed to act as standby a purchaser for all of the shares of common stock being offered in the Equity Offering that are not otherwise subscribed to by other stockholders prior to the Subscription Deadline. Additional information about the Equity Offering, including the material terms and conditions of the Equity Offering and information about how stockholders may subscribe for Shares in the Equity Offering, including the form of Subscription Agreement, are set forth in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on February 28, 2024.
The Company’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Office, Mr. Richard A. Bianco (“R.A. Bianco”) has indicated that, if and when needed, he would provide a working capital line of credit to the Company on an as needed basis, subject to customary and market terms and conditions to be agreed upon at such time, until such time as the Equity Offering has been completed. However, there can be no assurance that the Equity Offering will be completed within the timeframe contemplated or at all. As of December 31, 2023,
Mr. R.A. Bianco provided loans to the Company in the amounts aggregating $3,198,000. In
January, February, and March 2024, Mr. R.A. Bianco provided additional loan(s) to the Company. For additional information, see
Part II – Item 8 – Note 10 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
For additional information with regard to the Company’s investment in the 111 West 57th Property and the legal proceedings related thereto see Part II – Item 8 – Note 3 and Note 8 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
The Company has incurred operating losses over the last several years and may not be able to achieve profitability.
We expect our operating expenses in 2024 will remain generally close to our most recent levels, although there can be no assurance that the Company’s current level of operating expenses will not increase or that other uses of cash will not be necessary, including increased costs related to the Company’s legal proceeding depending on a variety of factors including the status of legal proceedings, appeals, discovery expert fees, and other litigation related expenses. These losses, among other things, have had and will continue to have an adverse effect on our working capital, total assets and stockholders’ equity. Because of the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with property development and management, we are unable to predict if or when we may become profitable.
The Company is in a competitive business.
The real estate industry is highly competitive. In addition, the Company expects other major real estate investors, some with much greater resources than the Company has, may compete with the Company for attractive acquisition opportunities. These competitors include REITs, investment banking firms and private institutional investors. This competition has increased prices for commercial properties and may impair the Company’s ability to make suitable property acquisitions on favorable terms in the future.
We are a party to legal proceedings relating to our equity interest in the joint real estate venture 111 West 57th Partners, and may become subject to additional litigation in the future, all of which continue to have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flow and per share trading price of our common stock.
We are currently party to lawsuits relating to our equity interest in the joint real estate venture 111 West 57th Property, as further described in Part II – Item 8 – Note 8 to our consolidated financial statements. There can be no assurance that the Company will prevail with any of its claims with respect to its interests in the 111 West 57th Property or that any course of action will be successful in recovering value for the Company from this investment. If the Company is unable to recover all or most of the value of its investment in the 111 West 57th Property, there would be a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and future prospects, including the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. In addition, in the future we may become subject to additional litigation, including claims relating to our operations, assets, offerings, and otherwise in the ordinary course of business. Some of these claims may result in significant defense costs and potentially significant judgments against us, some of which are not, or cannot be insured against. An adverse determination with respect to any of these claims may result in our having to pay material judgments, or settlements, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flow and per share trading price of our common stock. Certain litigation or the resolution of certain litigation may affect the availability or cost of some of our insurance coverage, which could adversely impact our results of operations and cash flows and potentially expose us to increased risks that would be uninsured.
Illiquidity of real estate limits our ability to act quickly.
Real estate investments are relatively illiquid. Such illiquidity may limit our ability to react quickly in response to changes in economic and other conditions. If we want to sell an investment, we might not be able to dispose of that investment in the time period we desire, and the sales price of that investment might not recoup or exceed the amount of our investment. These limitations on our ability to sell properties or investments could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Property ownership through equity investments and/or in joint ventures could subject us to the differing business objectives of our co-venturers.
The Company has entered into, and may continue in the future to enter into, equity investments and/or joint ventures (including limited liability companies and partnerships) in which the Company does not hold a direct or controlling interest in the assets underlying the entities in which it invests, including equity investments and/or joint ventures in which (i) the Company owns a direct interest in an entity which controls such assets, or (ii) the Company owns a direct interest in an entity which owns indirect interests, through one or more intermediaries, of such assets. These equity investments and/or joint ventures may include ventures through which the Company would own an indirect economic interest of less than 100 percent of a property owned directly by such joint ventures and may include equity investments and/or joint ventures that the Company does not control or manage. These investments involve risks that do not exist with properties in which the Company owns a controlling interest with respect to the underlying assets, including the possibility that (i) we may become subject to material, legal disputes with our joint venture partners, as is the case with respect to our investment in the 111 West 57th Property; (ii) our co-venturers or partners may, at any time, become insolvent or otherwise refuse to make capital contributions when due, (iii) we may be subject to additional capital calls for joint venture development or other expenses which we may be unable or unwilling to meet, possibly resulting in substantial dilution of our investment, (iv) we may become liable with respect to guarantees of payment or performance by the joint ventures, or (v) we may become subject to buy-sell arrangements which could cause us to sell our interests or acquire our co-venturer’s or partner’s interests in a joint venture. Even where we have major decision rights or do not have major decision rights, because we lack a controlling interest, our co-venturers or partners may be in a position to take action contrary to our instructions or requests or contrary to our policies or objectives. While we seek protective rights against such contrary actions, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in procuring any such protective rights, or if procured, that the rights will be sufficient to fully protect us against contrary actions. Our organizational documents do not limit the amount of available funds that we may invest in equity investments and/or joint ventures and/or partnerships. If the objectives of our co-venturers or partners are inconsistent with ours, it may adversely affect our ability to make receive and distributions or payments to our investors.
We may be unable to identify suitable properties for equity investments and acquisitions and any new investments and acquisitions may fail to perform as expected and subject us to new risks, including risks created by geographic concentration.
The Company may not be able to identify suitable properties for equity investments and acquisitions. Even if we are able to identify suitable properties for equity investments and acquisitions, we may not be able to carry out such equity investments or acquisitions on favorable terms, or at all. Any new equity investments in properties or newly acquired properties may not perform as expected and may subject us to unknown liability with respect to liabilities relating to such properties for clean-up of undisclosed environmental contamination or claims by tenants, residents, vendors or other persons against the former owners of the properties. Inaccurate assumptions regarding future rental or occupancy rates, or fluctuations in the target market could result in overly optimistic estimates of future revenues. In addition, future operating expenses or the costs necessary to bring an acquired property up to standards established for its intended market position may be underestimated. The search for and process of acquiring such properties will also require a substantial amount of management’s time and attention.
Fluctuations in the local market in which the Company’s equity investment in a development property is located may adversely impact the Company’s financial condition and operating results.
The 111 West 57th Property, which the Company purchased an equity investment in during 2013, is located in New York City. This geographic concentration could present risks if the New York City property market performance falls below expectations. The economic condition of this market could affect occupancy, property revenues, and expenses, from the property and future asset value.
The Company may not be able to insure certain risks economically.
The Company may experience economic harm if any damage to the Company’s property or properties is not covered by insurance. The Company cannot be certain that the Company will be able to insure all risks that the Company desires to insure economically or that all of the Company’s insurers will be financially viable if the Company makes a claim. The Company may suffer losses that are not covered under the Company’s insurance policies. If an uninsured loss or a loss in excess of insured limits should occur, the Company could lose capital invested in a property or properties, as well as any potential future revenue from the property or properties.
Development and redevelopment activities may be delayed, not completed, and/or not achieve expected results.
The Company’s investments in development and redevelopment activities generally entail certain risks, including the following:
| | - | funds may be expended, and management’s time devoted to projects that may not be completed, |
| | - | required approvals may not be obtained from governmental entities or other third parties, |
| | - | construction costs of a project may exceed original estimates, negatively impacting the economic feasibility of the project, |
| | - | projects may be delayed due to, without limitation, adverse weather conditions, labor or material shortages, |
| | - | occupancy rates and rents at a completed project may be less than anticipated, and |
| | - | expenses at completed development projects may be higher than anticipated. |
These risks may reduce the funds available for distribution to the Company and have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. Further, investment in and the development and redevelopment of real estate is also subject to the general risks associated with real estate investments. For further information regarding these risks, see the risk factor “The Company is subject to risks inherent in owning, developing and leasing real estate.”
We are dependent on our key personnel whose continued service is not guaranteed and the loss of whose service could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Whether our business is successful will be dependent in part upon the leadership, strategic business direction and real estate experience of our executive officers, particularly Mr. R.A. Bianco, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. Although we have entered into an employment agreement with Mr. R.A. Bianco, none of our executive officers or directors are subject to any covenants not to compete against the Company should they terminate their affiliation with the Company. While we believe that we could find replacements for these key personnel, loss of their services could adversely affect our operations. We do not carry key man life insurance on any of our other executive officers or directors.
Changes in the composition of the Company’s assets and liabilities through acquisitions, divestitures or corporate restructuring may affect the Company’s results.
The Company may make future acquisitions or divestitures of assets or changes in how such assets are held. Any change in the composition of the Company’s assets and liabilities or how such assets and liabilities are held could significantly affect the Company’s financial position and the risks that the Company faces.
Terrorist attacks and other acts of violence or war may affect the market, on which the Company’s common stock trades, the markets in which the Company operates the Company’s operations and the Company’s results of operations.
Terrorist attacks or armed conflicts could affect the Company’s business or the businesses of the Company’s tenants. The consequences of armed conflicts are unpredictable, and the Company may not be able to foresee events that could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business. More generally, any of these events could cause consumer confidence and spending to decrease or result in increased volatility in the U.S. and worldwide financial markets and economy. They also could be a factor resulting in, or a continuation of, an economic recession in the U.S. or abroad. Any of these occurrences could have a significant adverse impact on the Company’s operating results and revenues and may result in volatility of the market price for the Company’s common stock.
The Company is subject to risks inherent in owning, developing and leasing real estate.
The Company is subject to varying degrees of risk generally related to leasing and owning real estate, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. In addition to general risks related to owning commercial real estate, the Company’s risks include, among others:
| | - | deterioration in regional and local economic and real estate market conditions, |
| | - | failure to complete construction and lease-up on schedule or within budget may increase debt service expense and construction and other costs, |
| | - | increased operating costs, including insurance premiums, utilities and real estate taxes, due to inflation and other factors which may not necessarily be offset by increased rents, |
| | - | changes in interest rate levels, rates of inflation and the availability of financing, |
| | - | fluctuations in tourism patterns, |
| | - | adverse changes in laws and regulations (including tax, environmental, zoning and building codes, landlord/tenant and other housing laws and regulations) and agency or court interpretations of such laws and regulations and the related costs of compliance, |
| | - | potential changes in supply of, or demand for rental properties similar to the Company’s, |
| | - | competition for tenants and changes in rental rates, |
| | - | concentration in a single real estate asset and class, |
| | - | needs for additional capital which may be required for needed development or repositioning of one or more real estate assets may exceed the Company’s abilities or its desired minimum level of liquidity, |
| | - | difficulty in reletting properties on favorable terms or at all, |
| | - | impairments in the Company’s ability to collect rent payments when due, |
| | - | the potential for uninsured casualty and other losses, |
| | - | the impact of present or future environmental legislation and compliance with environmental laws, |
| | - | changes in federal or state tax laws, |
| | - | the effects of global pandemics such as COVID-19 and government responses thereto; and |
| | - | acts of terrorism and war. |
Each of these factors could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to receive distributions from its properties and investments and the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. In addition, real estate investments are relatively illiquid, which means that the Company’s ability to promptly sell the Company’s property in response to changes in economic and other conditions may be limited.
Security breaches and other disruptions could compromise our information and expose us to liability, which would cause our business and reputation to suffer.
In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store sensitive data that may include intellectual property, our proprietary business information and that of our tenants and business partners, including personally identifiable information of our tenants and employees, on our networks. Despite our security measures, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or breached due to employee error, malfeasance or other disruptions. Any such breach could compromise our networks and the information stored there could be accessed, publicly disclosed, lost or stolen. Any such access, disclosure or other loss of information could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability under laws that protect the privacy of personal information, disrupt our operations, and damage our reputation, which could adversely affect our business.
The Company may not be able to generate sufficient taxable income to fully realize the Company’s deferred tax asset.
The Company has federal income tax net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards and other tax attributes. If the Company is unable to generate sufficient taxable income, the Company may not be able to fully realize the benefit of the NOL carryforwards.
Because the Company from time to time maintains a majority of its assets in cash and/or securities, the Company may in the future be deemed to be an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 resulting in additional costs and regulatory burdens.
Currently, the Company believes that either it is not within the definition of “Investment Company” as the term is defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) or, alternatively, may rely on one or more of the 1940 Act’s exemptions. The Company intends to continue to conduct its operations in a manner that will exempt the Company from the registration requirements of the 1940 Act. If the Company were to be deemed to be an investment company because of the Company’s investments securities holdings, the Company would be required to register as an investment company under the 1940 Act. The 1940 Act places significant restrictions on the capital structure and corporate governance of a registered investment company, and materially restricts its ability to conduct transactions with affiliates. Compliance with the 1940 Act could also increase the Company’s operating costs. Such changes could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial condition.
Anti-takeover Risks
Our amended and restated shareholder rights plan may delay or prevent an acquisition of us that shareholders may consider favorable or may prevent efforts by our shareholders to change our directors or our management, which could decrease the value of your common shares.
On March 27, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors adopted the New Rights Plan which is designed to provide adequate time for our Board of Directors and shareholders to assess an unsolicited takeover bid for our company, to provide our Board of Directors with sufficient time to explore and develop alternatives for maximizing shareholder value if a takeover bid is made, and to provide shareholders with an equal opportunity to participate in a takeover bid and receive full and fair value for their common shares. The New Rights Plan is set to expire on March 27, 2029. The rights will become exercisable only when a person, including any party related to it, acquires or attempts to acquire 25% or more of our outstanding common stock. Should such an acquisition occur or be announced, each right would, upon exercise, entitle a rights holder, other than the acquiring person and related persons, to purchase common shares at a 50% discount to the market price at the time. The New Rights Plan may inhibit a change in control of the Company by a third party in a transaction not approved by the Company’s Board of Directors. If a change in control is inhibited or delayed in this manner, it may adversely affect the market price of the Company’s common stock.
Other Risks
Outbreaks of highly infectious or contagious diseases may, materially and adversely impact the business, income, cash flow, results of operations and financial condition of the Company, including the 111 West 57th Property.
The national and global impacts of a pandemic, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may present material uncertainty and risk with respect to our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Moreover, many of the risk factors set forth in this Form 10-K could be interpreted as heightened risks as a result of the impact of a pandemic. Impacts from a pandemic may include the following:
| | • | State, local, and federal entities may impose restrictions, for varying times and to varying degrees, on our ability to enforce tenant’s contractual lease obligations, and this may affect our ability to enforce all our remedies (such as pursuing collections and seeking evictions) for the failure to pay rent. |
| • | Consumers whose income has declined, who are working remotely or who cannot freely access neighborhood amenities like restaurants, may decide to live in a location other than New York City. |
| • | Various state, local and federal rules may require us to waive late fees and certain other customary fees associated with tenant rent obligations. These requirements or practices may result in a loss of revenue. |
| • | A property may incur significant costs or losses related to shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders, quarantines, infection, clean-up costs or other related factors. |
| • | There may be concerns related to the general economy about (i) supply chain constraints and (ii) inflation caused by both supply chain constraints and governmental fiscal and monetary policies. Supply chain constraints could cause delays in any construction and redevelopment activity, and inflation could cause any construction and operating costs to increase without a commensurate increase in our rental revenue. |
The same factors as described immediately above may also impact our workforce. A disruption in the normal operations of our workforce, as well as the possibility of illness among our employees or a substantial portion of our workforce, could also adversely affect our operations.
We face possible risks associated with the physical effects of climate change.
We cannot predict with certainty whether climate change is occurring and, if so, at what rate. However, the physical effects of climate change could have a material adverse effect on our 111 West 57th Property, operations, and business. To the extent climate change causes changes in weather patterns or severity, our markets could experience increase in storm intensity (including floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, or snow and ice storms), rising sea-levels, and changes in precipitation, temperature, air quality, and quality and availability of water. Over time, these conditions could result in physical damage to, or declining demand for, our properties or our inability to operate the buildings efficiently or at all. Climate change may also indirectly affect our business by increasing the cost of (or making unavailable) property insurance on terms we find acceptable, increasing the cost of required resources, including energy, other fuel sources, water, and waste and snow removal services, and increasing the risk and severity of flood and earthquakes at our properties. Should the impact of climate change be severe or occur for lengthy periods of time, our financial condition or results of operations could be adversely impacted. In addition, compliance with new or more stringent laws or regulations or stricter interpretations of existing laws may require material expenditure by us. For example, various federal, state, and local laws and regulations have been implemented or are under consideration to mitigate the effects of climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions. Among other things, “green” building codes may seek to reduce emissions through the imposition of standards for design, construction materials, water and energy usage and efficiency, and waste management. Such codes could require us to make improvements to our existing properties, increase the costs of maintaining or improving our existing properties or developing new properties, or increase taxes and fees assessed on us or our properties. Expenditures required for compliance with such codes may affect our cash flow and results of operations.
| ITEM 1B. | UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS |
None.
The Company’s information technology, communication networks, system applications, accounting and financial reporting platforms and related systems are integral to the operation of the business. The Company utilizes these systems, among others, for financial analysis, management, and reporting, and for various other aspects of the business.
The Company’s cybersecurity strategy is focused on detection, protection, incident response, security risk management and mitigation, and resiliency of the cybersecurity infrastructure. The Company relies on third party service providers to operate and maintain its information technology infrastructure and systems and to evaluate, test and update various information security processes and to manage material risks from cybersecurity threats to the Company’s critical computer networks, third-party hosted services, communications systems, hardware and software, and critical data, including confidential information that is proprietary, strategic or competitive in nature, as well as any personally identifiable information related to any tenants’ and employees’ personal data.
The Company identifies and assesses risks from cybersecurity threats by monitoring and evaluating the cybersecurity threat environment and the Company’s risk profile. The Company is not currently aware of any risks from cybersecurity threats nor has the Company had a previously cybersecurity incident that in either case have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company, its business strategy, results of operations or financial condition.
The Company’s Audit Committee holds oversight responsibility over the Company’s cybersecurity strategy and risk management. The Audit Committee engages in regular discussions with executive management regarding the Company’s significant financial risk exposures and the measures implemented to monitor and control these risks, including those that may result from material cybersecurity threats.
The Company rents approximately 150 square feet of office space for its executive office at 7857 West Sample Road, Suite 134, Coral Springs, FL 33065 on a short term basis. The Company also rents on a short term basis approximately 200 square feet of office space in Emerson, NJ.
For a discussion of the Company’s legal proceedings, see Part II - Item 8 - Note 8 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
From time to time, the Company and its subsidiaries may be named as a defendant in various lawsuits or proceedings. At the current time, except as set forth in Part II - Item 8 - Note 8 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements, the Company is unaware of any legal proceedings pending against the Company. The Company intends to aggressively contest all litigation and contingencies, as well as pursue all sources for contributions to settlements. However, there can be no assurance that the Company will prevail with respect to any of its claims.
| ITEM 4. | MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES |
Not applicable.
PART II
| ITEM 5. | MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS, AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES |
The Common Stock of the Company is quoted in the over-the-counter market under the symbol ABCP. Such prices reflect interdealer prices, without retail mark-up, markdown or commission, and may not necessarily represent actual transactions.
As of February 15, 2024, there were approximately 5,900 beneficial owners of the Company’s Common Stock.
Common Stock Repurchase Plan
The Company’s common stock repurchase plan (the “Repurchase Plan”) allows for the repurchase by the Company of its common stock in the open market. The Repurchase Plan is conditioned upon favorable business conditions and acceptable prices for the common stock. Purchases under the Repurchase Plan may be made, from time to time, in the open market, through block trades or otherwise. Depending on market conditions and other factors, purchases may be commenced or suspended any time or from time to time without prior notice. No common stock repurchases have been made pursuant to the Repurchase Plan during 2023 or 2022. Due to the Company’s current financial condition and ongoing litigation proceedings, the Company does not anticipate that it will make any stock purchases pursuant to the Repurchase Plan in the next twelve months. For additional information see Part II - Item 8 - Note 5 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Not applicable.
| ITEM 7. | MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes, which are contained in Part II - Item 8, herein.
BUSINESS OVERVIEW
AmBase Corporation (the “Company” or “AmBase”) is a Delaware corporation that was incorporated in 1975. AmBase is a holding company. At December 31, 2023, the Company’s assets consisted of cash and cash equivalents. The Company is engaged in the management of its assets and liabilities.
In June 2013, the Company purchased an equity interest in a real estate development property through a joint venture agreement to purchase and develop real property located at 105 through 111 West 57th Street in New York, New York (the “111 West 57th Property”). The Company is engaged in material disputes and litigation with regard to the 111 West 57th Property. Despite ongoing litigation challenging the legitimacy of the actions taken in connection with the “Strict Foreclosure”, (as defined and further discussed herein), the Company recorded an impairment for the full amount of its equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property in 2017. Prior to the Strict Foreclosure, the carrying value of the Company’s equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property represented a substantial portion of the Company’s assets and net equity value.
For additional information regarding the Company’s recording of an impairment of its equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property in 2017 and the Company’s legal proceedings relating to the 111 West 57th Property, including the Company’s challenge to the Strict Foreclosure, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 3 and Note 8 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company’s assets at December 31, 2023, aggregated $78,000, consisting of cash and cash equivalents. At December 31, 2023, the Company’s liabilities aggregated $6,423,000. Total stockholders’ deficit was $6,345,000.
The Company has incurred operating losses and used cash for operating activities for the past several years. The Company has continued to keep operating expenses at a reduced level; however, there can be no assurance that the Company’s current level of operating expenses will not increase or that other uses of cash will not be necessary. The Company believes that based on its current level of operating expenses, its existing cash and cash equivalents may not be sufficient to cover operating cash needs through the twelve month period from the financial statement reporting date. Based on the above factors, management determined there is substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. The financial statements do not include adjustments to the carrying value of assets and liabilities, which might be necessary should the Company not continue in operation.
In order to continue as a going concern, the Company must take steps to manage its current level of cash and cash equivalents, through various ways, including but not limited to, raising additional capital through the sale of equity or debt securities or long-term borrowings, which may include additional borrowings from affiliates of the Company, reducing operating expenses, and seeking recoveries from various sources. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to adequately implement these cash management measures, in whole or in part or raise capital or obtain financing on terms acceptable to the Company, if at all.
In June 2013, the Company purchased an equity interest in the 111 West 57th Property. The Company is engaged in material disputes and litigation with regard to the 111 West 57th Property. Despite ongoing litigation challenging the legitimacy of the actions taken in connection with the “Strict Foreclosure”, (as defined and further discussed herein), in accordance with GAAP, the Company recorded an impairment for the full amount of its equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property of $63,745,000 in 2017. Prior to the Strict Foreclosure, the carrying value of the Company’s equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property represented a substantial portion of the Company’s assets and net equity value.
For additional information concerning the Company’s recording of an impairment of its equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property in 2017 and the Company’s legal proceedings relating to the 111 West 57th Property, including the Company’s challenge to the Strict Foreclosure, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 3 and Note 8 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
With respect to its disputes and litigation relating to its interest in the 111 West 57th Property, the Company is pursuing, and will continue to pursue, other options to realize the Company’s investment value, various legal courses of action to protect its legal rights, recovery of its asset value from various sources of recovery, as well as considering other possible economic strategies, including the possible sale of the Company’s interest in and/or rights with respect to the 111 West 57th Property; however, there can be no assurance that the Company will prevail with respect to any of its claims.
The Company can give no assurances regarding the outcome of the matters described herein, including as to the effect of Spruce’s actions described herein, whether the Sponsors will perform their contractual commitments to the Company under the JV Agreement, as to what further action, if any, the lenders may take with respect to the project, as to the ultimate resolution of the ongoing litigation proceedings relating to the Company’s investment interest in the 111 West 57th Property, as to the ultimate effect of the Sponsors’, the Company’s or the lenders’ actions on the project, as to the completion or ultimate success of the project, or as to the value or ultimate realization of any portion of the Company’s equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property. For additional information regarding the Company’s investment in the 111 West 57th Property and the legal proceedings related thereto see Part II – Item 8 – Note 3 and Note 8 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
While the Company’s management is evaluating future courses of action to protect and/or recover the value of the Company’s equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property, the adverse developments make it uncertain as to whether any such courses of action will be successful. Any such efforts are likely to require sustained effort over a period of time and substantial additional financial resources. Inability to recover all or most of such value would, in all likelihood, have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and future prospects. The Company can give no assurances with regard to if it will prevail with respect to any of its claims.
To provide the necessary cash resources to continue operations and continue the litigation related to the 111 West 57th Property, the Company has commenced a private placement offering (the “Equity Offering”) of 44,200,460 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Shares”) to existing shareholders of the Company (the “Equity Offering”) in reliance on the exemption from registration under Rule 506(c) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The purchase price for one share of Common Stock in the Equity Offering is $0.20. The Company expects to receive gross proceeds of approximately $8.8 million in connection with the Equity Offering before deducting offering expenses. There are no limitations on the Company’s use of such proceeds when received, although it is anticipated that a substantial part of the proceeds will be applied to repayment of existing Company obligations. The Shares are not being registered under the Securities Act and will be “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and will generally be subject to a minimum holding period of six months under Rule 144 before the Shares may be resold. The Shares will be offered and sold only to existing stockholders of record of the Company as of February 28, 2024 (the “Record Date”). Each qualifying stockholder will be permitted to purchase up to his, her or its pro rata share of the Shares in the Equity Offering, based on the amount of shares of Common Stock owned by such stockholder as of the Record Date, in an amount equal to up to one hundred and eight and one-half percent (108.5%) of the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by such stockholder as of the Record Date. The Equity Offering commenced on or about February 28, 2024, and will remain open for a period of thirty (30) calendar days ending on March 29, 2024 (the “Subscription Deadline”). The Shares will be offered and sold pursuant to a Subscription Agreement (the “Subscription Agreement”) to be entered into by and between the Company and each subscribing stockholder. In connection with the Equity Offering, the Company has entered into a standby purchase agreement dated February 28, 2024 (the “SPA”) with BARC Investments, LLC (“BARC”), an affiliate of the Company owned and controlled by Company directors Alessandra F. Bianco and Richard A. Bianco, Jr. Under the terms of the SPA, BARC has agreed to act as standby a purchaser for all of the shares of common stock being offered in the Equity Offering that are not otherwise subscribed to by other stockholders prior to the Subscription Deadline. Additional information about the Equity Offering, including the material terms and conditions of the Equity Offering and information about how stockholders may subscribe for Shares in the Equity Offering, including the form of Subscription Agreement, are set forth in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on February 28, 2024.
The Company’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Office, Mr. Richard A. Bianco (“R.A. Bianco”) has indicated that, if and when needed, he would provide a working capital line of credit to the Company on an as needed basis, subject to customary and market terms and conditions to be agreed upon at such time, until such time as the Equity Offering has been completed. However, there can be no assurance that the Equity Offering will be completed within the timeframe contemplated or at all. As of December 31, 2023, Mr. R.A. Bianco provided loans to the Company in the amounts aggregating $3,198,000. In January, February and March 2024, Mr. R.A. Bianco provided additional loan(s) to the Company. For additional information, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 10 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In 2017, the Company entered into a Litigation Funding Agreement (the “LFA”) with Mr. R.A. Bianco. Pursuant to the LFA, Mr. R.A. Bianco agreed to provide litigation funding to the Company, to satisfy actual documented litigation costs and expenses of the Company, including attorneys’ fees, expert witness fees, consulting fees and disbursements in connection with the Company’s legal proceedings related to the Company’s equity investment in the 111 West 57th Property. In 2019, the Company and Mr. R.A. Bianco entered into an amendment to the LFA (the “Amendment). For additional information including the terms of the Litigation Funding Agreement, as amended by the Amendment, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 9 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, cash of $3,469,000 was used by operations for the payment of operating expenses and prior year accruals.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, cash of $2,654,000 was used by operations for the payment of operating expenses and prior year accruals.
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2023, increased as compared to December 31, 2022. The amounts in the respective years are principally related to accruals for legal expenses in connection with the 111 West 57th Property legal proceedings.
Loan(s) payable – related party was $3,198,000 as of December 31, 2023, compared to $0 as of December 31, 2022, relating to loans made to the Company from Mr. R.A. Bianco, for working capital. For additional information, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 10 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
There are no material commitments for capital expenditures as of December 31, 2023. Inflation has had no material impact on the business and operations of the Company.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The Company recorded a net loss of $5,271,000 or $0.13 per share for the year ended December 31, 2023. For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded a net loss of $3,473,000 or $0.09 per share.
Compensation and benefits decreased to $1,378,000 in 2023 from $1,410,000 in 2022. The decrease in 2023 as compared to 2022 is primarily due to a decrease in benefit costs in 2023 versus 2022.
Professional and outside services expenses increased to $3,298,000 in 2023 from $1,668,000 in 2022. The increase in 2023 as compared to 2022 is principally the result of higher level of legal and professional fees incurred in 2023 in connection with the Company’s legal proceedings relating to the Company’s investment in the 111 West 57th Property. For additional information regarding the Company’s investment in the 111 West 57th Property and the legal proceedings related thereto, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 3 and Note 8 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Property operating and maintenance expenses were $17,000 in 2023 and $17,000 in 2022.
Insurance expenses increased to $259,000 in 2023, compared with $257,000 in 2022. The increase is primarily due to an increase in insurance premium costs.
Other operating expenses increased slightly to $79,000 in 2023 compared with $72,000 in 2022 due to a general higher level of expenses in 2023 versus 2022.
Interest income in 2023 decreased to $2,000 compared to $9,000 in 2022. The decreased interest income is due to a lower levels of cash equivalents on hand in 2023 versus 2022.
Interest expense was $241,000 and $57,000 in 2023 and 2022, respectively. Interest expense for 2023 was attributable to interest expense to a professional firm for outstanding and unpaid professional fees and interest expense relating to the loans payable – related party. For additional information see Part II – Item 8 – Note 10 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Interest expense for 2022 is attributable to interest expense paid to a professional firm for outstanding and unpaid professional fees.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $1,000 attributable to a provision for a tax on capital imposed by the state jurisdictions. For additional information see Part II – Item 8 – Note 7 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $1,000 attributable to a provision for a tax on capital imposed by the state jurisdictions. For additional information, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 7 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
A reconciliation between income taxes computed at the statutory federal rate and the provision for income taxes is included in Part II - Item 8 – Note 7 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. For additional information including a discussion of income tax matters, see Part II – Item 8 – Note 7 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
Our consolidated financial statements are based on the selection and application of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which require us to make estimates and assumptions about future events that affect the amounts reported in our financial statements and the accompanying notes. Future events and their effects cannot be determined with absolute certainty. The determination of estimates requires the exercise of judgment. Actual results could differ from those estimates, and any such differences may be material to the consolidated financial statements. We believe that the following accounting policies, which are important to our consolidated financial position and consolidated results of operations, require a higher degree of judgment and complexity in their application and represent the critical accounting estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. If different assumptions or conditions were to prevail, the results could be materially different from our reported results. For a summary of all our accounting policies, including the accounting estimates discussed below, see Part II - Item 8 - Note 2 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Deferred Tax Assets: As of December 31, 2023, and 2022, the Company had deferred tax assets arising primarily from net operating loss carryforwards available to offset taxable income in future periods. A valuation allowance remains on the remaining deferred tax asset amounts relating to the NOL carryforwards as management has no basis to conclude that realization is more likely than not. The valuation allowance was calculated in accordance with current standards, which places primary importance on a company’s cumulative operating results for the current and preceding years. We intend to maintain a valuation allowance for the deferred tax asset amount relating to the NOL carryforwards until sufficient positive evidence exists to support a reversal. See Part II - Item 8 - Note 7 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Cautionary Statement for Forward-Looking Information
This Annual Report together with other statements and information publicly disseminated by the Company may contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or make oral statements that constitute forward-looking statements. The Company intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which cannot be predicted or quantified. The forward-looking statements may relate to such matters as anticipated financial performance, future revenues or earnings, business prospects, projected ventures, anticipated market performance, anticipated litigation results or the timing of pending litigation, and similar matters. When used in this Annual Report, the words “estimates,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “intends” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. The Company cautions readers that a variety of factors could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the Company’s forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, include, but are not limited to those set forth in “Item 1A, Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report and in the Company’s other public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including, but not limited to: (i) risks with regard to the ability of the Company to continue as a going concern; (ii) assumptions regarding the outcome of legal and/or tax matters, based in whole or in part upon consultation with outside advisors; (iii) risks arising from unfavorable decisions in tax, legal and/or other proceedings; (iv) transaction volume in the securities markets; (v) the volatility of the securities markets; (vi) fluctuations in interest rates; (vii) risks inherent in the real estate business, including, but not limited to, insurance risks, tenant defaults, risks associated with real estate development activities, changes in occupancy rates or real estate values; (viii) changes in regulatory requirements which could affect the cost of doing business; (ix) general economic conditions; (x) risks with regard to whether or not the Company’s current financial resources will be adequate to fund operations over the next twelve months from financial statement issuance date and/or continue operations and whether the Company will be able to complete the Equity Offering within the timeframe contemplated or at all; (xi) changes in the rate of inflation and the related impact on the securities markets; and (xii) changes in federal and state tax laws. Additionally, there is risk relating to assumptions regarding the outcome of tax matters, based in whole or in part upon consultation with outside advisors; risk relating to potential unfavorable decisions in tax proceedings; risks regarding changes in, and/or interpretations of federal and state income tax laws; and risk of IRS and/or state tax authority assessment of additional tax plus interest. These are not the only risks that we face. There may be additional risks that we do not presently know of or that we currently believe are immaterial which could also impair our business and financial position.
Undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements, which are applicable only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this Annual Report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Accordingly, there is no assurance that the Company’s expectations will be realized.
| ITEM 8. | CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA |
