Explanatory Note
This Amendment No. 2 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K/A (Amendment No. 2) of CopyTele, Inc. (we, our or the Company) is being filed to amend the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2013, which was originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on January 16, 2014 and amended on January 17, 2014 (collectively, the Original Filing), in order to include certain additional disclosure relating to our patent portfolios. In addition, as further required by Rule 12b-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), this Amendment No. 2 contains new certifications (the Certifications) by our current principal executive officer and principal financial officer, filed as exhibits hereto under Part IV, Item 15 hereof.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING
STATEMENTS
Information included in this Amendment No. 2 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K/A (this Report) contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 (the Securities Act), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical facts, but rather reflect our current expectations concerning future events and results. We generally use the words believes, expects, intends, plans, anticipates, likely, will and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including those concerning our expectations, involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and factors include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in this Report under Item 1A. Risk Factors below. Except as required by applicable law, including the securities laws of the United States, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You are cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented in this Report.
CERTAIN TERMS USED IN THIS REPORT
References in this Report to we, us, our, the Company, CopyTele or CTI means CopyTele, Inc. unless otherwise indicated. Unless otherwise indicated, all references in this Report to dollars or $ refer to US dollars.
PART I
Item 1.
Business.
Overview
Our principal operations include the development, acquisition, licensing, and enforcement of patented technologies that are either owned or controlled by the Company or one of our wholly owned subsidiaries. The Company currently owns or controls nine patent portfolios. As part of our patent assertion activities and in the ordinary course of our business, the Company, and our wholly owned subsidiaries, have initiated and will likely continue to initiate patent infringement lawsuits, and engage in patent infringement litigation. Since implementing our new business model in January 2013, the Company has initiated 41 lawsuits in connection with 5 of our patent portfolios. Our primary source of revenue will come from licenses resulting from the unauthorized use of our patented technologies, including the settlement of patent infringement lawsuits. In 2013, we entered into 4 revenue producing licenses from 2 of our patent portfolios. In addition to continuing to mine and monetize our existing patents, our wholly owned subsidiary, CTI Patent Acquisition Corporation, will continue to acquire patents and the exclusive rights to license and enforce patents from third parties. In 2013, the Company acquired the rights to four additional patent portfolios.
Due to arrangements previously entered into by the Company, certain of our patents contain encumbrances, as described below, which may negatively impact our patent monetization and patent assertion activities. Where we are able, we will take the steps necessary to remove any encumbrances that may inhibit our patent monetization and patent assertion activities. We have obtained and will continue to obtain the rights to license and enforce additional patents from third parties, and when necessary, will assist such parties in the further development of their patent portfolios through the filing of additional patent applications.
In April 2013, CopyTele, through its wholly owned subsidiary, CTI Patent Acquisition Corporation, acquired the exclusive rights to license and enforce patent portfolios relating to (i) loyalty awards programs commonly provided by airlines, credit card companies, hotels, retailers, casinos, and others, and (ii) vinyl windows with integrated J-Channels, commonly used in modular buildings, mobile homes, and conventional, new home construction. In November 2013, CTI Patent Acquisition Corporation acquired 2 patent portfolios in the rapidly expanding area of unified communications relating to (i) the multicast delivery of streaming data, media, and other content, within the confines of specialized virtual private networks, and (ii) the integration of telephonic participation in web-based audio/video conferences by creating a gateway between the internet and cellular or traditional landline telephones.
Patent Monetization and Patent Assertion
Patent monetization is the generation of revenue and proceeds from patents and patented technologies (Patent Monetization). Patent assertion is a specialized type of Patent Monetization where a patent owner, or a representative of the patent owner, seeks to prohibit or collect royalties from the unauthorized manufacture, sale, and use of the owners patented invention (Patent Assertion). CTIs business model is Patent Monetization and Patent Assertion. We currently own or control nine patent portfolios which we have identified for patent monetization: (i) Encrypted Mobile Communication; (ii) ePaper® Electrophoretic Display; (iii) Internet Telephonic Gateway; (iv) J-Channel Window Frame Construction; (v) Key Based Web Conferencing Encryption; (vi) Loyalty Conversion Systems; (vii) Micro Electro Mechanical Systems Display; (viii) Nano Field Emission Display; and (ix) VPN Multicast Communications.
CTIs Patent Portfolios
Encrypted Mobile Communications
The Encrypted Mobile Communications patent portfolio covers hardware and software used to encrypt cellular phone calls and other mobile communications. With the increased use of mobile devices, and the increased concerns regarding privacy and the protection of personal information, we believe the demand for secure mobile communications is increasing for both businesses and consumers.
ePaper® Electrophoretic Display
The ePaper® Electrophoretic Display patent portfolio covers core electrophoretic technology that is used in the worlds most popular eReader devices such as the Nook® and the Kindle. The ePaper patents cover the underlying chemistry that is used to manufacture both the particles and the suspension, two of the key elements that are fundamental to the generation of the black and white eReader display. CTIs ePaper patents also cover the manufacturing, assembly, and physical structure of the display unit itself, as well as the electronics and internal operation of the device.
Internet Telephonic Gateway
The internet telephonic gateway patent portfolio covers the integration of telephonic participation in web-based audio/video conferences by creating a gateway between the Internet, and cellular or traditional landline telephones. The end result is that participants can join and participate in online, audio/video conferences via a cellular or conventional telephone. This internet telephonic gateway technology is commonly used for web based audio/video events with broad based audience participation such as earnings calls, webinars, and virtual town hall meetings.
J-Channel Window Frame Construction
The J-Channel Window Frame Construction patent portfolio covers vinyl windows with an integrated frame, known in the industry as a J-Channel. Such windows are commonly used in modular buildings, mobile homes, and conventional, new home construction, resulting in easier and faster window installation.
Key Based Web Conferencing Encryption
The Key Based Web Conferencing Encryption patent portfolio covers the generation and management of encryption keys. This type of encryption technology is commonly used to encrypt web-based conferencing, email for regulatory compliance purposes, and personal information such as contracts.
Loyalty Conversion Systems
The Loyalty Conversion System patent portfolio covers coalition loyalty awards programs commonly provided by airlines, credit card companies, hotels, retailers, casinos, and others. The portfolio covers the electronic conversion of non-negotiable, loyalty awards points into negotiable funds used to purchase goods and services from third parties, as well as covering the electronic conversions of awards points into points and awards provided by other loyalty program providers.
Micro Electro Mechanical Systems Display
The Micro Electro Mechanical Systems Display patent portfolio covers vanadium dioxide coated pixels that electrically modulate light at extremely high speeds to form an image, as well as the use of electrostatic force to move pixel sized membranes that create a color image. These are emerging, low voltage, display technologies with numerous potential commercial applications.
Nano Field Emission Display
The Nano Field Emission Display patent portfolio covers a new type of flat panel display consisting of low voltage color phosphors, specially coated carbon nanotubes, nano materials to generate secondary electrons, and ionized noble gas, resulting in a bright, sharp, high contrast color image. This emerging technology could result in a flat panel display utilizing less power, with better picture quality and lower manufacturing costs than is currently found in the flat panel display industry.
VPN Multicast Communications
The VPN Multicast Communications patent portfolio covers the multicast, internet delivery of streaming data, media, and other content to large numbers of recipients, within the confines of specialized virtual private networks (VPNs). Multicasting is a commonly used content delivery protocol that enables several recipients to simultaneous receive content from a single internet transmission, greatly reducing Internet bandwidth costs. When combined with specialized VPNs, the content and communications are protected from unwanted disclosure and piracy. Applications for these live, VPN multicast communications include videoconferences, online training and e-learning classes, internet television, web-based corporate events and strategy sessions, and other live transmissions of sensitive or protected content.
Patent Monetization and Patent Assertion Activities
On January 28, 2013, CTI initiated a patent infringement lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against E Ink Corporation (E Ink), asserting U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,964,935; 6,113,810; and 6,194,488; covering CTIs ePaper® Electrophoretic Display technology, which patents expire in 2017. CTI alleges that E Ink has infringed and continues to infringe such patents in connection with the manufacture, sale, use, and importation of electrophoretic displays. On January 28, 2013, CTI also filed a separate joint lawsuit against both AU Optronics Corp. (AUO) and E Ink, the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit (as defined below). In June of 2013, CTI and AUO agreed to arbitrate CTIs charges in the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit. The Court also ordered E Ink to participate in the arbitration, for purposes of discovery. Because issues in the AUO/E Ink arbitration need to be resolved before the patent infringement case can proceed against E Ink, the Court dismissed the patent infringement case, without prejudice, meaning that CTI can re-file the patent infringement lawsuit, if necessary, following the arbitration.
On May 1, 2013, CTIs wholly owned subsidiary, Secure Web Conference Corporation, initiated a patent infringement lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York against Microsoft Corporation, with respect to U.S. Patent Nos. 6,856,686 and 6,856,687, covering CTIs Key Based Web Conferencing Encryption technology, allegedly utilized by Microsofts SKYPE and Lync video conferencing services, which patents expire in 2020. On July 8, 2013, Secure Web Conference Corporation initiated similar lawsuits in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York against Citrix Systems and Logitech International.
On August 7, 2013, CTIs wholly owned subsidiary, J-Channel Industries Corporation, filed 8 separate patent infringement lawsuits in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, against Lowes Companies, Clayton Homes, Pella Corporation, Jeld-Wen, Atrium Windows and Doors, Ply Gem Industries, RGF Industries, Tafco Corporation, Kinro Manufacturing, and Elixir Industries, all in connection with U.S. Reissue Patent No. 40,041, covering CTIs J-Channel Window Frame Construction technology, which patent expired in 2012. The lawsuits cover infringing activity from February of 2008 through February of 2012. .
On August 20, 2013, CTIs wholly owned subsidiary, Loyalty Conversion System Corporation, filed 10 separate patent infringement lawsuits in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, against Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, and U.S. Airways, all in connection with U.S. Patent Nos. 8,313,023 and 8,511,550, covering CTIs Loyalty Conversion Systems technology, which patents expire in 2026.
On October 9, 2013, CTIs wholly owned subsidiary, J-Channel Industries Corporation, filed 19 patent infringement lawsuits in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, in connection with U.S. Reissue Patent No. 40,041, covering CTIs J-Channel Window Frame Construction technology, which patent expired in 2012. Defendants in the lawsuits consist of retailers and window manufacturers, including: Home Depot U.S.A., Inc.; Anderson Corporation; American Builders & Contractors Supply Co., Inc. (ABC Supply); Comfort View Products, LLC; Croft, LLC; Moss Supply Company; Wincore Window Company LLC; Vinylmax, LLC; Simonton Building Products, Inc.; HWD Acquisition, Inc. (Hurd Windows); Magnolia Windows and Doors, LLC; MGM Industries, Inc., MI Windows and Doors LLC; PGT Industries, Inc.; Quaker Window Products Co.; Sun Windows, Inc.; Weather Shield Manufacturing, Inc.; West Window Corporation; Woodgrain Millwork, Inc.; and YKK-AP American Inc. The lawsuits cover infringing activity from February of 2008 through February of 2012.
The Company has engaged in and will continue to engage in patent infringement lawsuits in the ordinary course of its business operations. All litigation involves a significant degree of uncertainty, and we give no assurances as to the outcome or duration of any lawsuit.
Licensing Activity
During the fiscal year ended October 31, 2013, the Company has entered into 4 license agreements in connection with 2 of our patented technologies. In October 2013, we entered into a license agreement with Alaska Air Group, Inc. in connection with our Loyalty Conversion Systems technology. In addition, in October 2013 we entered into license agreements with Tafco Corporation, RGF Industries and Elixir Industries, all in connection with our patented J-Channel Window Frame Construction technology. All of the agreements provide for one-time, non-recurring, lump sum payments in exchange for a non-exclusive license, or covenants not to sue. The Alaska Air Group payment covers alleged past and future infringing activity through May of 2026, the expiration date of the Loyalty Conversion Systems patents. The Tafco, RGF, and Elixir payments cover alleged past infringing activity from February 2008, the date of the re-issued J-Channel Window Frame Construction patent, through February 2012, the date that the J-Channel Window Frame Construction patent expired. All of the aforementioned license agreements were entered into in connection with the settlement of patent infringement lawsuits, which lawsuits have been dismissed.
Agreements Relating to Previous Business Operations
AU Optronics Corp.
In May 2011, we entered into an Exclusive License Agreement (the EPD License Agreement) and a License Agreement (the Nano Display License Agreement) with AUO (together the AUO License Agreements). Under the EPD License Agreement, we provided AUO with an exclusive, non-transferable, worldwide license of our ePaper® Electrophoretic Display patents and technology, in connection with AUO jointly developing products with CTI. Under the Nano Display License Agreement, we provided AUO with a non-exclusive, non-transferable, worldwide license of our Nano Field Emission Display patents and technology, in connection with AUO jointly developing products with CTI.
On January 28, 2013, we terminated the AUO License Agreements due to numerous alleged material and continual breaches of the agreements by AUO. On January 28, 2013, we also filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against AUO and E Ink in connection with the AUO License Agreements, alleging breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, fraudulent inducement, unjust enrichment, unfair business practices, attempted monopolization, and other charges, and we are seeking compensatory, punitive, and treble damages (the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit). In June of 2013, CTI and AUO agreed to arbitrate CTIs charges, which we believe should result in a faster and more efficient adjudication. For more details on the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit, please see Item 3, Legal Proceedings in this Report.
Videocon Industries Limited
In November 2007, we entered into a Technology License Agreement (the Videocon License Agreement) with Videocon Industries Limited (Videocon). Under the Videocon License Agreement, we provided Videocon with a non-transferable, worldwide license of our Nano Field Emission Display technology. We are not presently involved in development efforts with Videocon and it is not anticipated that such efforts will be resumed in the future. We have entered into discussions with Videocon regarding the disposition of the Videocon License Agreement.
At the same time we entered into the Videocon License Agreement in November 2007, we also entered into a Share Subscription Agreement (the Share Subscription Agreement) with Mars Overseas Limited, an affiliate of Videocon (Mars Overseas). Under the Share Subscription Agreement, Mars Overseas purchased 20,000,000 unregistered shares of our common stock (the CopyTele Shares) from us for an aggregate purchase price of $16,200,000. Also in November 2007, our wholly-owned subsidiary, CopyTele International Ltd. (CopyTele International), entered into a GDR Purchase Agreement with Global EPC Ventures Limited (Global), for CopyTele International to purchase from Global 1,495,845 global depository receipts of Videocon (the Videocon GDRs) for an aggregate purchase price of $16,200,000.
For the purpose of effecting a lock up of the Videocon GDRs and CopyTele Shares (collectively, the Securities) for a period of seven years, and therefore restricting both parties from selling or transferring the Securities during such period, CopyTele International and Mars Overseas entered into two Loan and Pledge Agreements in November 2007. The Videocon GDRs are to be held as security for a loan in the principal amount of $5,000,000 from Mars Overseas to CopyTele International, and the CopyTele Shares are similarly held as security for a loan in the principal amount of $5,000,000 from CopyTele International to Mars Overseas. The loan payable to Mars Overseas is solely a liability of CopyTele International without recourse to CopyTele, Inc., its parent company. The loans are for a period of seven years, do not bear interest, and provide for customary events of default, which may result in forfeiture of the Securities by the defaulting party, and also provide for the transfer to the respective parties, free and clear of any encumbrances under the agreements, any dividends, distributions, rights or other proceeds or benefits in respect of the Securities. We have entered into discussions with Videocon regarding the disposition of the Subscription Agreement, GDR Purchase Agreement, and Loan and Pledge Agreements. The outcome of these discussions and the disposition of the related assets and liabilities may have a material effect on our financial statements. We cannot presently estimate the timing or impact of any such resolution.
Competition
CTI expects to encounter competition in the areas of patent acquisitions for the sake of enforcement from both private and publicly traded companies that engage in Patent Monetization and Patent Assertion. This includes competition from companies seeking to acquire the same patents and patent rights that we may seek to acquire. Entities such as Acacia Research Corporation, Intellectual Ventures, Wi-LAN, MOSAID, Round Rock Research LLC, IPvalue Management Inc., Vringo Inc., Pendrell Corporation, and others derive all or a substantial portion of their revenue from Patent Assertion and we expect more entities to enter the market.
We also compete with venture capital firms, strategic corporate buyers and various industry leaders for patent and technology acquisitions and licensing opportunities. Many of these competitors have more financial and human resources than our company.
Research and Development
Research and development expenses were $-0- and approximately $2,212,000 for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. In accordance with the changes in the primary operations of the Company during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, we are no longer incurring research and development expenses. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations below and our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Employees
As of October 31, 2013, we had six full-time employees and one part time employee.
Other
On October 11, 2013, our stockholders approved an amendment to our certificate of incorporation to increase the number of shares of common stock we are authorized to issue from 300 million to 600 million.
We were incorporated on November 5, 1982 under the laws of the State of Delaware. From inception through end of fiscal year 2012, our primary operations involved licensing in connection with the development of patented technologies. Since that date, our primary operations include the development, acquisition, licensing, and enforcement of patented technologies that are either owned or controlled by the Company or one of our wholly owned subsidiaries. Our principal executive offices are located at 900 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, New York 11747, our telephone number is 631-549-5900, and our Internet website address is www.CTIpatents.com. We make available free of charge on or through our Internet website our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, proxy statements on Schedule 14A, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act) as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such materials with, or furnish them to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). Alternatively, you may also access our reports at the SECs website at www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy any document we file with the SEC at the SECs public reference room located at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549, on official business days during the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public reference room.
Financial Information About Segments and Geographical Areas
See our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Item 1A.
Risk Factors.
Our business involves a high degree of risk and uncertainty, including the following risks and uncertainties:
Risks Related to Our Financial Condition and Operations
We have a history of losses and may incur additional losses in the future.
On a cumulative basis we have sustained substantial losses and negative cash flows from operations since our inception. As of October 31, 2013, our accumulated deficit was approximately $134,750,000. As of October 31, 2013, we had approximately $898,000 in cash and cash equivalents on hand, and negative working capital of approximately $1,978,000. We incurred losses of approximately $10,080,000 in fiscal 2013. We expect to continue incurring significant legal and general and administrative expenses in connection with our operations. As a result, we anticipate that we will incur losses in the future.
We may need additional funding in the future which may not be available on acceptable terms, or at all, and, if available, may result in dilution to our stockholders.
Based on currently available information, we believe that our existing cash and cash equivalents together with expected cash flows from patent licensing and enforcement, the sale of our common stock under the Stock Purchase Agreement with Aspire Capital Fund LLC (described in Item 5 below Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities), the gross proceeds of $3,500,000 received from the private placement in November 2013 of a 6% Convertible Debenture (also described in Item 5 below Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities), and other potential sources of cash flow will be sufficient to enable us to continue our patent licensing and enforcement activities for at least 12 months. However, our projections of future cash needs and cash flows may differ from actual results. If current cash on hand and cash that may be generated from patent licensing and enforcement activities are insufficient to satisfy our liquidity requirements, we may seek to sell equity securities or obtain loans from various financial institutions where possible. The sale of additional equity securities or securities convertible into or exercisable for equity securities could result in dilution to our stockholders. We can give no assurance that we will generate sufficient cash flows in the future (through licensing and enforcement of patents, or otherwise) to satisfy our liquidity requirements or sustain future operations, or that other sources of funding, such as sales of equity or debt, would be available, if needed, on favorable terms or at all. We can also give no assurance that we will have sufficient funds to repay our outstanding indebtedness. If we cannot obtain such funding if needed or if we cannot sufficiently reduce operating expenses, we would need to curtail or cease some or all of our operations.
If we encounter unforeseen difficulties with our business or operations in the future that require us to obtain additional working capital, and we cannot obtain additional working capital on favorable terms, or at all, our business will suffer.
Our consolidated cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled approximately $898,000 and $840,000 at October 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. To date, we have relied primarily upon cash from the public and private sale of equity securities to generate the working capital needed to finance our operations.
Although we received aggregate gross proceeds of $3,500,000 from the issuance of a 6% convertible debenture on November 11, 2013, we may need substantial additional capital to continue to operate our business.
We may encounter unforeseen difficulties with our business or operations in the future that may deplete our capital resources more rapidly than anticipated. As a result, we may be required to obtain additional working capital in the future through bank credit facilities, public or private debt or equity financings, or otherwise. Other than the Stock Purchase Agreement with Aspire Capital Fund LLC, we have not identified other sources for additional funding and cannot be certain that additional funding will be available on acceptable terms, or at all. If we are required to raise additional working capital in the future, such financing may be unavailable to us on favorable terms, if at all, or may be dilutive to our existing stockholders. If we fail to obtain additional working capital as and when needed, such failure could have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Furthermore, such lack of funds may inhibit our ability to respond to competitive pressures or unanticipated capital needs, or may force us to reduce operating expenses, which would significantly harm the business and development of operations.
Failure to effectively manage our potential growth could place strains on our managerial, operational and financial resources and could adversely affect our business and operating results.
Our change in business strategy and potential growth is expected to place a strain on our managerial, operational and financial resources and systems. Further, if our business grows, we will be required to manage multiple relationships. Any growth by us, or an increase in the number of our strategic relationships, may place additional strain on our managerial, operational and financial resources and systems. Although we may not grow as we expect, if we fail to manage our growth effectively or to develop and expand our managerial, operational and financial resources and systems, our business and financial results will be materially harmed.
Our equity arrangements with Videocon involve market risks.
At the same time as we entered into the Videocon License Agreement (defined above), we entered into the Share Subscription Agreement with Mars Overseas Limited (Mars Overseas), an affiliate of Videocon, to purchase the 20,000,000 CopyTele Shares (defined above), and our subsidiary, CopyTele International, entered into the GDR Purchase Agreement to purchase the 1,495,845 Videocon GDRs (defined above). The value of the Videocon GDRs owned by us depends upon, among other things, the value of Videocons securities in its home market of India, as well as exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and Indian rupee (the currency in which Videocons securities are traded in its home market). Based on both the duration and the continuing magnitude of the market price declines and the uncertainty of recovery, we recorded other than temporary impairments as of October 31, 2009, 2011 and 2013. We can give no assurances that the value of the Videocon GDRs will not decline in the future and future write downs may occur.
In addition, for the purpose of effecting a lock up of the Videocon GDRs and CopyTele Shares (collectively, the Securities) for a period of seven years, and therefore restricting both parties from selling or transferring the Securities during such period, CopyTele International and Mars Overseas entered into two Loan and Pledge Agreements. The Videocon GDRs are to be held as security for a loan in the principal amount of $5,000,000 from Mars Overseas to CopyTele International, and the CopyTele Shares are similarly held as security for a loan in the principal amount of $5,000,000 from CopyTele International to Mars Overseas. The loan payable to Mars Overseas is solely a liability of CopyTele International without recourse to CopyTele, Inc. , its parent company. The loans are for a term of seven years, do not bear interest and prepayment of the loans will not release the lien on the Securities prior to the end of the seven year period. The loan agreements also provide for customary events of default which may result in forfeiture of the Securities by the defaulting party. We can give no assurances that the respective parties receiving such loans will not default on such loans.
Risks Related to Patent Monetization and Patent Assertion Activities
We may not be able to monetize our patent portfolios.
The primary operations of the Company are Patent Monetization and Patent Assertion. We expect to generate revenues and related cash flows from the licensing and enforcement of patents that we currently own and from the rights to license and enforce additional patents we have obtained, and may obtain in the future, from third parties. However, we can give no assurances that we will be able to identify opportunities to exploit such patents or that such opportunities, even if identified, will generate sufficient revenues to sustain future operations.
Certain of our patent portfolios are subject to existing license agreements with AUO and Videocon, which may limit our ability to monetize them.
In the course of entering into the EPD License Agreement and the Nano Display License Agreement with AUO, and the Videocon License Agreement with Videocon, certain rights to our ePaper® Electrophoretic Display patents were licensed to AUO, and certain rights to our Nano Field Emission Display patents were licensed to AUO and Videocon, respectively. We have terminated the EPD License Agreement and the Nano Display License Agreement with AUO although we can give no assurance that AUO will not challenge the effectiveness of such terminations, and we expect that our relationship with Videocon will end by the end of 2014. We intend to take the steps necessary to seek to remove any encumbrances that may inhibit our patent licensing and enforcement efforts in connection with the ePaper® Electrophoretic Display patents, however, we can give no assurance that the patents will be unencumbered. If the patent portfolios remain encumbered or if our termination of the AUO license agreements are deemed to be ineffective, it could limit our ability to assert the ePaper® Electrophoretic Display patents against potential infringers, and otherwise monetize the Nano Field Emission Display patents.
While we recently commenced lawsuits against AUO and E Ink, and currently have 37 patent infringement lawsuits, we may not be successful in obtaining judgments in our favor.
On January 28, 2013, we filed the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit and currently we have 37 patent infringement lawsuits. We can give no assurance that these lawsuits will be decided in our favor or even if they are that the damages and other remedies will be material.
Our revenues are unpredictable, may come from a small number of licensees, and may harm our financial condition.
In our fiscal year ended October 31, 2013, our revenue was derived from four licenses, and a substantial portion of our revenue was derived from one licensee. It is likely that going forward, a substantial portion of our revenue in each reporting period may come from a small number of licensees, and that one licensee may account for a substantial portion of our revenue. As a result, our revenues may be unpredictable and may vary from period to period.
Our success depends in part upon our ability to retain top legal counsel to represent us in patent enforcement litigation.
The success of our licensing business depends upon our ability to retain top legal counsel to prosecute patent infringement litigation. As our patent enforcement actions increase, it will become more difficult to find the top legal counsel to handle all of our cases because many of the top law firms may have a conflict of interest that prevents their representation of us.
We, in certain circumstances, rely on representations, warranties and opinions made by third parties that, if determined to be false or inaccurate, may expose us to certain material liabilities.
From time to time, we may rely upon the opinions of purported experts. In certain instances, we may not have the opportunity to independently investigate and verify the facts upon which such opinions are made. By relying on these opinions, we may be exposed to liabilities in connection with the licensing and enforcement of certain patents and patent rights which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition.
In connection with patent enforcement actions conducted by certain of our subsidiaries, a court may rule unfavorably in counterclaims filed against us or that we have violated certain statutory, regulatory, federal, local or governing rules or standards, which may expose us and our operating subsidiaries to certain material liabilities.
In connection with any of our patent enforcement actions, it is possible that a defendant may file counterclaims against us or a court may rule that we have violated statutory authority, regulatory authority, federal rules, local court rules, or governing standards relating to the substantive or procedural aspects of such enforcement actions. In such event, a court may issue monetary sanctions against us or our operating subsidiaries or award attorneys fees and/or expenses to a defendant(s), which could be material, and if we or our operating subsidiaries are required to pay such monetary sanctions, attorneys fees and/or expenses, such payment could materially harm our operating results and our financial position.
New legislation, regulations or rules related to obtaining patents or enforcing patents could significantly increase our operating costs and decrease our revenue.
We may apply for patents and may spend a significant amount of resources to enforce those patents. If new legislation, regulations or rules are implemented either by Congress, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), or the courts that impact the patent application process, the patent enforcement process or the rights of patent holders, these changes could negatively affect our expenses and revenue. For example, new rules regarding the burden of proof in patent enforcement actions could significantly increase the cost of our enforcement actions, new standards or limitations on liability for patent infringement could negatively impact our revenue derived from such enforcement actions, and potential new rules requiring that the losing party pay legal fees of the prevailing party could also significantly increase the cost of our enforcement actions.
United States patent laws were recently amended with the enactment of the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act, or the America Invents Act, which took effect on March 16, 2013. The America Invents Act includes a number of significant changes to U.S. patent law. In general, the legislation attempts to address issues surrounding the enforceability of patents and the increase in patent litigation by, among other things, establishing new procedures for patent litigation. For example, the America Invents Act changes the way that parties may be joined in patent infringement actions, increasing the likelihood that such actions will need to be brought against individual parties allegedly infringing by their respective individual actions or activities. The America Invents Act and its implementation increases the uncertainties and costs surrounding the enforcement of our patented technologies, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.
In addition, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has conducted reviews of the patent system to evaluate the impact of patent assertion entities on industries in which those patents relate. It is possible that the findings and recommendations of the DOJ could impact the ability to effectively license and enforce standards-essential patents and could increase the uncertainties and costs surrounding the enforcement of any such patented technologies.
Trial judges and juries often find it difficult to understand complex patent enforcement litigation, and as a result, we may need to appeal adverse decisions by lower courts in order to successfully enforce our patents.
It is difficult to predict the outcome of patent enforcement litigation at the trial level. It is often difficult for juries and trial judges to understand complex, patented technologies, and as a result, there is a higher rate of successful appeals in patent enforcement litigation than more standard business litigation. Such appeals are expensive and time consuming, resulting in increased costs and delayed revenue. Although we diligently pursue enforcement litigation, we cannot predict with significant reliability the decisions made by juries and trial courts.
More patent applications are filed each year resulting in longer delays in getting patents issued by the USPTO.
We hold a number of pending patents. We have identified a trend of increasing patent applications each year, which we believe is resulting in longer delays in obtaining approval of pending patent applications. The application delays could cause delays in recognizing revenue, if any, from these patents and could cause us to miss opportunities to license patents before other competing technologies are developed or introduced into the market.
U.S. Federal courts are becoming more crowded, and as a result, patent enforcement litigation is taking longer.
Patent enforcement actions are almost exclusively prosecuted in U.S. Federal court. Federal trial courts that hear patent enforcement actions also hear criminal cases. Criminal cases always take priority over patent enforcement actions. As a result, it is difficult to predict the length of time it will take to complete an enforcement action. Moreover, we believe there is a trend in increasing numbers of civil lawsuits and criminal proceedings before United States Judges, and as a result, we believe that the risk of delays in patent enforcement actions will have a significant effect on our business in the future unless this trend changes.
Any reductions in the funding of the USPTO could have an adverse impact on the cost of processing pending patent applications and the value of those pending patent applications.
Our primary asset is our patent portfolios, including pending patent applications before the USPTO. The value of our patent portfolios is dependent upon the issuance of patents in a timely manner, and any reductions in the funding of the USPTO could negatively impact the value of our assets. Further, reductions in funding from Congress could result in higher patent application filing and maintenance fees charged by the USPTO, causing an unexpected increase in our expenses.
Competition is intense in the industries in which we do business and as a result, we may not be able to grow or maintain our market share for our technologies and patents.
Our licensing business may compete with venture capital firms and various industry leaders for technology licensing opportunities. Many of these competitors may have more financial and human resources than we do. As we become more successful, we may find more companies entering the market for similar technology opportunities, which may reduce our market share in one or more technology industries that we currently rely upon to generate future revenue.
Our patented technologies have an uncertain market value.
Many of our patents and technologies are in the early stages of adoption in the commercial and consumer markets. Demand for some of these technologies is untested and is subject to fluctuation based upon the rate at which our licensees will adopt our patents and technologies in their products and services.
As patent enforcement litigation becomes more prevalent, it may become more difficult for us to voluntarily license our patents.
We believe that the more prevalent patent enforcement actions become, the more difficult it will be for us to voluntarily license our patents. As a result, we may need to increase the number of our patent enforcement actions to cause infringing companies to license the patent or pay damages for lost royalties. This may increase the risks associated with an investment in our company.
We are dependent upon a few key personnel and the loss of their services could adversely affect us.
Our future success to monetize our patent portfolios will depend on the efforts of our President and Chief Executive Officer, Robert A. Berman, and our Senior Vice President Engineering, John Roop, and our strategic advisor, Dr. Amit Kumar. We do not maintain key person life insurance on Messrs. Berman or Roop or Dr. Kumar. The loss of the services of any such persons could have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.
Risks Related to Our Common Stock
The availability of shares for sale in the future could reduce the market price of our common stock.
In the future, we may issue securities to raise cash for operations and acquisitions of patents and/or companies. We have and in the future may issue securities convertible into our common stock. Any of these events may dilute stockholders' ownership interests in our company and have an adverse impact on the price of our common stock.
In addition, sales of a substantial amount of our common stock in the public market, or the perception that these sales may occur, could reduce the market price of our common stock. This could also impair our ability to raise additional capital through the sale of our securities.
Any actual or anticipated sales of shares by Aspire Capital may cause the trading price of our common stock to decline. Additional issuances of shares to Aspire Capital may result in dilution to the interests of other holders of our common stock. The sale of a substantial number of shares of our common stock by Aspire Capital, or anticipation of such sales, could make it more difficult for us to sell equity or equity-related securities in the future at a time and at a price that we might otherwise wish to effect sales. However, we have the right to control the timing and amount of sales of our shares to Aspire Capital, and the purchase agreement may be terminated by us at any time at our discretion without any penalty or cost to us.
Delaware law and our charter documents contain provisions that could discourage or prevent a potential takeover of our company that might otherwise result in our stockholders receiving a premium over the market price of their shares.
Provisions of Delaware General Corporation Law (DGCL) and our certificate of incorporation and bylaws could make the acquisition of our company by means of a tender offer, proxy contest or otherwise, and the removal of incumbent officers and directors, more difficult. These provisions include:
·
Section 203 of the DGCL, which prohibits a merger with a 15%-or-greater stockholder, such as a party that has completed a successful tender offer, until three years after that party became a 15%-or-greater stockholder;
·
The authorization in our certificate of incorporation of undesignated preferred stock, which could be issued without stockholder approval in a manner designed to prevent or discourage a takeover; and
·
Provisions in our bylaws regarding stockholders' rights to call a special meeting of stockholders limit such rights to stockholders holding together at least a majority of shares of the Company entitled to vote at the meeting, which could make it more difficult for stockholders to wage a proxy contest for control of our board of directors (the Board) or to vote to repeal any of the anti-takeover provisions contained in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws.
Together, these provisions may make the removal of management more difficult and may discourage transactions that could otherwise involve payment of a premium over prevailing market prices for our common stock.
We may fail to meet market expectations because of fluctuations in quarterly operating results, which could cause the price of our common stock to decline.
Our reported revenues and operating results have fluctuated in the past and may continue to fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter in the future. It is possible that in future periods, revenues could fall below the expectations of securities analysts or investors, which could cause the market price of our common stock to decline. The following are among the factors that could cause our operating results to fluctuate significantly from period to period:
·
the dollar amount of agreements executed in each period, which is primarily driven by the nature and characteristics of the technology being licensed and/or the magnitude of infringement associated with a specific licensee;
·
the specific terms and conditions of agreements executed in each period and/or the periods of infringement contemplated by the respective payments;
·
fluctuations in the total number of agreements executed;
·
fluctuations in the sales results or other royalty-per-unit activities of our licensees that impact the calculation of license fees due;
·
the timing of the receipt of periodic license fee payments and/or reports from licensees;
·
fluctuations in the net number of active licensees period to period;
·
costs related to acquisitions, alliances, licenses and other efforts to expand our operations;
·
the timing of payments under the terms of any customer or license agreements into which we may enter;
·
expenses related to, and the timing and results of, patent filings and other enforcement proceedings relating to intellectual property rights, as more fully described in this section; and
·
The outcome of any of our patent infringement lawsuits.
Technology company stock prices are especially volatile, and this volatility may depress the price of our common stock.
The stock market has experienced significant price and volume fluctuations, and the market prices of technology companies have been highly volatile. We believe that various factors may cause the market price of our common stock to fluctuate, perhaps substantially, including, among others, the following:
·
announcements of developments in our patent enforcement actions;
·
developments or disputes concerning our patents;
·
our or our competitors' technological innovations;
·
developments in relationships with licensees;
·
variations in our quarterly operating results;
·
our failure to meet or exceed securities analysts' expectations of our financial results;
·
a change in financial estimates or securities analysts' recommendations;
·
changes in management's or securities analysts' estimates of our financial performance;
·
changes in market valuations of similar companies;
·
the current sovereign debt crises affecting several countries in the European Union and concerns about sovereign debt of the United States;
·
announcements by us or our competitors of significant contracts, acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint ventures, capital commitments, new technologies, or patents; and
·
failure to complete significant transactions.
In addition, we believe that fluctuations in our stock price during applicable periods can also be impacted by court rulings and/or other developments in our patent licensing and enforcement actions. Court rulings in patent enforcement actions are often difficult to understand, even when favorable or neutral to the value of our patents and our overall business, and we believe that investors in the market may overreact, causing fluctuations in our stock prices that may not accurately reflect the impact of court rulings on our business operations and assets.
In the past, companies that have experienced volatility in the market price of their stock have been the objects of securities class action litigation. If our common stock was the object of securities class action litigation, it could result in substantial costs and a diversion of management's attention and resources, which could materially harm our business and financial results.
Our common stock is subject to the SECs penny stock rules which may make our shares more difficult to sell.
Our common stock fits the definition of a penny stock and therefore is subject to the rules adopted by the SEC regulating broker-dealer practices in connection with transactions in penny stocks. The SEC rules may have the effect of reducing trading activity in our common stock making it more difficult for investors to sell their shares. The SECs rules require a broker or dealer proposing to effect a transaction in a penny stock to deliver the customer a risk disclosure document that provides certain information prescribed by the SEC, including, but not limited to, the nature and level of risks in the penny stock market. The broker or dealer must also disclose the aggregate amount of any compensation received or receivable by him in connection with such transaction prior to consummating the transaction. In addition, the SECs rules also require a broker or dealer to make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchasers written agreement to the transaction before completion of the transaction. The existence of the SECs rules may result in a lower trading volume of our common stock and lower trading prices.
We do not anticipate declaring any cash dividends on our common stock.
We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our common stock and do not plan to pay any cash dividends in the near future. Our current policy is to retain all funds and any earnings for use in the operation and expansion of our business. If we do not pay dividends, our stock may be less valuable to you because a return on your investment will only occur if our stock price appreciates.
The securities issued in our private placements may dilute your percentage ownership interest and may also result in downward pressure on the price of our common stock.
In connection with our private placements in February 2011, January 2013 and November 2013, we have outstanding convertible debentures and warrants which are convertible into or exercisable for an aggregate of 46,727,653 shares of our common stock, at prices ranging from $0.15 to $0.3784 per share. In addition, as we are required to register these shares for resale by the holders, it is possible that a significant number of shares could be sold at the same time. Because the market for our common stock is thinly traded, the sales and/or the perception that those sales may occur, could adversely affect the market price of our common stock. Furthermore, the mere existence of a significant number of shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the debentures or the exercise of warrants may be perceived by the market as having a potential dilutive effect, which could lead to a decrease in the price of our common stock.
The sale of our common stock to Aspire Capital may cause substantial dilution to our existing stockholders and the sale, actual or anticipated, of the shares of common stock acquired by Aspire Capital could cause the price of our common stock to decline.
We have the right to sell up to $10 million of our shares of common stock to Aspire, including the 5,380,000 shares sold to Aspire Capital since April 23, 2013, and have issued 3,500,000 shares to Aspire Capital as a commitment fee. We cannot execute any sales to Aspire when the closing price of our common stock is less than $0.15 per share. We were obligated to register these shares with the SEC. The registration statement declared effective by the SEC on June 19, 2013 registers 20,000,000 shares for issuance and sale to Aspire Capital under the Purchase Agreement. It is anticipated that these shares will be sold by Aspire Capital pursuant to the registration statement or sold in reliance on an exemption from registration in Rule 144A of the Securities Act.
Any actual or anticipated sales of shares by Aspire Capital may cause the trading price of our common stock to decline. Additional issuances of shares to Aspire Capital may result in dilution to the interests of other holders of our common stock. The sale of a substantial number of shares of our common stock by Aspire Capital, or anticipation of such sales, could make it more difficult for us to sell equity or equity-related securities in the future at a time and at a price that we might otherwise wish to effect sales. However, we have the right to control the timing and amount of sales of our shares to Aspire Capital, and the purchase agreement may be terminated by us at any time at our discretion without any penalty or cost to us.
We may not have access to the full amount available under the Purchase Agreement with Aspire Capital.
In order for us to receive the full $10 million proceeds under the Purchase Agreement it is unlikely that the 20,000,000 shares registered will be sufficient. Accordingly, our ability to have access to the full amount under the Purchase Agreement with Aspire Capital will likely be subject to our ability to prepare and file one or more additional registration statements registering the resale of additional shares. These subsequent registration statements may be subject to review and comment by the staff of the SEC, and will require the consent of our independent registered public accounting firm. Therefore, the timing of effectiveness of these subsequent registration statements cannot be assured. The effectiveness of these subsequent registration statements is a condition precedent to our ability to sell the shares of common stock subject to these subsequent registration statements to Aspire Capital under the Purchase Agreement.
Raising funds by issuing equity or debt securities could dilute the value of the common stock and impose restrictions on our working capital.
If we were to raise additional capital by issuing equity securities, including sales of shares of common stock to Aspire Capital, the value of the then outstanding common stock would be reduced, unless the additional equity securities were issued at a price equal to or greater than the market value of the common stock at the time of issuance of the new securities. If the additional equity securities were issued at a per share price less than the per share value of the outstanding shares, then all of the outstanding shares would suffer a dilution in value with the issuance of such additional shares. Further, the issuance of debt securities in order to obtain additional funds may impose restrictions on our operations and may impair our working capital as we service any such debt obligations.
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
Item 2.
Properties.
We lease approximately 7,500 square feet of office facilities at 900 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, New York (our principal executive offices) from an unrelated party pursuant to a lease that expires November 30, 2014. Our base rent is approximately $228,000 per annum and the lease provides an escalation clause for increases in certain operating costs. See Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings.
On January 28, 2013, we filed a lawsuit in the United States Federal District Court for the Northern District of California against AUO and E Ink in connection with the EPD License Agreement and the Nano Display License Agreement, alleging breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, fraudulent inducement, unjust enrichment, unfair business practices, attempted monopolization, and other charges, and we are seeking compensatory, punitive, and treble damages.
In addition to numerous and continual material breaches by AUO of the EPD License Agreement, and the Nano Display License Agreement, the Complaint alleges that AUO and E Ink conspired to obtain rights to CTIs ePaper® Electrophoretic Display technology, and CTIs Nano Field Emission Display technology, through an elaborate scheme whereby AUO obtained certain rights to the technologies under the guise of jointly developing products with CTI, which products would compete with certain products manufactured by AUO and certain products manufactured and sold by E Ink. Instead of jointly developing products with CTI and competing with E Ink, AUO clandestinely agreed to sell its electrophoretic display business to E Ink, and attempted to include a license to CTIs ePaper® Electrophoretic Display technology as part of the sale, with CTI receiving no consideration. CTI alleges that such activities violated several State and Federal anti-trust and unfair competition statutes for which punitive and/or treble damages are applicable.
Other than the foregoing and the suits we bring to enforce our patent rights, which are an integral part of our business plan, we are not a party to any material pending legal proceedings other than that which arise in the ordinary course of business. We believe that any liability that may ultimately result from the resolution of these matters will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations.
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.
PART II
Item 5.
Market for the Registrants Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Market Information
Our common stock trades on the OTCQB under the symbol COPY. The high and low sales prices as reported by the OTCQB for each quarterly fiscal period during our fiscal years ended October 31, 2013 and 2012 have been as follows:
Fiscal Period | High | Low |
4th quarter 2013 3rd quarter 2013 2nd quarter 2013 1st quarter 2013 | $0.23 0.40 0.28 0.31 | $0.18 0.20 0.18 0.11 |
4th quarter 2012 3rd quarter 2012 2nd quarter 2012 1st quarter 2012 | $0.34 0.16 0.29 0.17 | $0.07 0.08 0.10 0.10 |
Holders
As of January 10, 2014, the approximate number of record holders of our common stock was 1,166 and the closing price of our common stock was $0.19 per share.
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
See Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
Dividend Policy
No cash dividends have been paid on our common stock since our inception. We have no present intention to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
On January 25, 2013, we completed a private placement with 20 accredited investors, including Robert A. Berman, the Companys President, Chief Executive Officer and a director, Dr. Amit Kumar, a consultant and director of the Company, and Bruce Johnson, a director of the Company (the Investors), pursuant to which we sold $1,765,000 principal amount of 8% Convertible Debentures due 2015 (the January 2013 Debentures) and warrants (the January 2013 Warrants) to purchase 5,882,745 shares of common stock of the Company, par value $0.01 per share (the January 2013 Warrant Shares) at an exercise price of $0.30 per share. The January 2013 Debentures mature on January 25, 2015, bear interest at the rate of 8% payable quarterly and are convertible into shares (the January 2013 Conversion Shares) of our common stock at a price per share of $0.15. The Company may prepay the January 2013 Debentures at any time without penalty upon 30 days prior notice, but only if the sales price of the common stock on the principal market on which the common stock is primarily listed and quoted for trading is at least $0.30 for 20 trading days in any 30-day trading period ending no more than 15 days before the Companys prepayment notice.
The January 2013 Debentures contain full ratchet anti-dilution protection which means, that, subject to certain exceptions, if the Company sells shares of common stock (or securities convertible or exchangeable into common stock) at an effective price of less than $0.15 per share of common stock, the conversion price of the January 2013 Debentures will be reduce to such lower effective sales price. The January 2013 Debentures also provide for events of default which, if any of them occurs, would permit the principal of and accrued interest on the January 2013 Debentures to become or to be declared due and payable, unless the event of default has been cured or the holder of the January 2013 Debenture has waived in writing the event of default. If all of the January 2013 Debentures are converted, the Company would issue 6,667 shares of common stock for each $1,000 principal amount of the January 2013 Debentures or 11,767,255 shares of its common stock in the aggregate. For each $1,000 principal amount of the January 2013 Debentures, the Company issued a January 2013 Warrant to purchase 3,333 shares of common stock. Each January 2013 Warrant grants the holder the right to purchase the January 2013 Warrant Shares at the purchase price per share of $0.30 on or before January 25, 2016. If there is not an effective registration statement covering the January 2013 Warrant Shares at the time the warrants are exercised, the January 2013 Warrants may be exercised on a cashless basis.
Pursuant to the January 2013 Debentures and January 2013 Warrants, no Investor may convert or exercise such Investors January 2013 Debenture or January 2013 Warrant if such conversion or exercise would result in the Investor beneficially owning in excess of 4.99% of our then issued and outstanding common stock. A holder may, however, increase this limitation (but in no event exceed 9.99% of the number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding) by providing the Company with 61 days notice that such holder wishes to increase this limitation.
In connection with this offering, the Company granted each Investor registration rights with respect to the January 2013 Conversion Shares and the January 2013 Warrant Shares. The Company was obligated to use its reasonable best efforts to cause a registration statement registering for resale the January 2013 Conversion Shares and the January 2013 Warrant Shares to be filed no later than 90 days from January 25, 2013 and declared effective no later than 180 days from January 25, 2013. The registration statement was declared effective by the SEC on June 19, 2013. The Company is required to use it reasonable best efforts to keep the registration statement effective until the January 2013 Conversion Shares and the January 2013 Warrant Shares can be sold under Rule 144(k) of the Securities Act or such earlier date when all January 2013 Conversion Shares and the January 2013 Warrant Shares have been sold publicly; provided, however, the Company shall not be required to keep the registration statement effective for more than three years from January 25, 2013.
In connection with the January 2013 offering, we paid The Benchmark Company LLC, as placement agent, a cash placement fee of $41,400 (or 6% of the aggregate purchase price from the Investors they introduced to us) and issued to them warrants to purchase 276,000 shares of common stock (or 6% of the aggregate number of shares underlying the January 2013 Debentures issued to the Investors they introduced to us) upon the same terms as the January 2013 Warrants issued in the offering.
The issuance of securities in the January 2013 offering were not registered under the Securities Act, in reliance on an exemption from Section 4(2) of the Securities Act, and Rule 506 promulgated thereunder, based on the fact that all of the investors were accredited investors, as such term is defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D. No underwriting discounts or commissions were paid in connection with the January 2013 offering.
On April 23, 2013, we entered into a common stock purchase agreement (the Stock Purchase Agreement) with Aspire Capital Fund LLC (Aspire Capital), which provides that, upon the terms and subject to the conditions and limitations set forth therein, Aspire Capital is committed to purchase up to an aggregate of $10 million of shares of our common stock over the two-year term of the agreement. In consideration for entering into the Stock Purchase Agreement, concurrently with the execution of the agreement, we issued to Aspire Capital 3,500,000 shares of our common stock with a fair value of $700,000 as a commitment fee. Upon execution of the Stock Purchase Agreement, Aspire Capital purchased 2,500,000 shares for $500,000. In order to sell any additional shares under the Stock Purchase Agreement, we were required to have a registration statement covering the shares issued to Aspire Capital declared effective by the SEC. Such registration statement was declared effective by the SEC on June 19, 2013. During the period from July through September 2013, we sold an additional 2,880,000 shares of our common stock to Aspire Capital for approximately $592,000.
The issuance of securities to Asprie Capital was not registered under the Securities Act, in reliance on an exemption from registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.
On May 29, 2013, the Company offered the holders of the warrants issued in our February 2011 private placement the opportunity to exercise the warrants at a reduced exercise price of $0.16 per share (payable in cash) during the period ended July 15, 2013. In connection therewith, Lewis H. Titterton, Jr., the Companys Chairman, Bruce Johnson, a director of the Company, and Henry P. Herms, the Companys Chief Financial Officer and a director, exercised warrants to purchase 1,400,000, 700,000 and 280,000 shares of our common stock and we received gross proceeds of $380,800. On June 17, 2013, Mr. Krusos, our former Chief Executive Officer, exercised the warrants previously issued to him in our February 2011 private placement on a cashless basis and received 547,493 shares of our common stock.
The issuance of securities in the February 2011 private placement were not registered under the Securities Act, in reliance on an exemption from registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act, and Rule 506 promulgated thereunder, based on the fact that all of the investors were accredited investors, as such term is defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D. No underwriting discounts or commissions were paid in connection with the offering.
During June and July 2013, holders of $325,000 of principal of the January 2013 Debentures converted their holdings into an aggregate of 2,166,775 shares of common stock and an additional 20,125 shares of common stock were issued in payment of accrued interest. In April, July and October 2013, respectively, 117,864, 101,000 and 140,556 shares of our common stock were issued in payment of interest on the January 2013 Debentures.
From October 18, 2012 through October 15, 2013, the Company entered into various agreements with companies to provide investor relations and public relations services to us for which the Company issued an aggregate of 1,490,000 shares of our common stock in payment for such services.
During the period from April 2013 to November 2013, the Company issued an aggregate of 1,200,000 shares of our common stock to various inventors in connection with the acquisition of rights to patent portfolios.
In both instances, the common stock was issued in reliance on an exemption from registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.
On November 11, 2013, we completed a private placement with a single institutional investor, pursuant to which the Company issued a $3,500,000 principal amount of 6% Convertible Debenture due 2016 (the November 2013 Debenture) at an exercise price of $0.1892 per share and a warrant (the November 2013 Warrant) to purchase 9,249,472 shares of our common stock of the Company, par value $0.01 per share (the November 2013 Warrant Shares) at an exercise price of $0.3784 per share. The November 2013 Debenture matures on November 11, 2016, bears interest at the rate of 6% payable annually and is convertible into shares (the November 2013 Conversion Shares) of our common stock at a price per share of $0.1892, which was 100% of the volume weighted average closing sales price of the common stock for the 30 trading days prior to November 11, 2013. The November 2013 Debenture contains full ratchet anti-dilution protection in the event that the Company enters into a new financing arrangement to issue additional shares of Common Stock at an effective net price of less than $0.1419 (or 75% of the conversion price of the November 2013 Debenture). The November 2013 Debenture also provides for standard and customary events of default which, if any of them occurs, would permit the principal of and accrued interest on the November 2013 Debenture to become or to be declared due and payable, unless the event of default has been cured or the holder of the November 2013 Debenture has waived in writing the event of default. If the entire principal amount of the November 2013 Debenture is converted, the Company would issue 18,498,943 shares of Common Stock.
The November 2013 Warrant grants the holder the right to purchase the November 2013 Warrant Shares at the purchase price per share of $0.3784 on or before November 11, 2016. If there is not an effective registration statement covering the November 2013 Warrant Shares, the November 2013 Warrant may be exercised on a cashless basis, otherwise the November 2013 Warrant holder must exercise for cash. If the entire November 2013 Warrant were exercised, the Company would receive $3,500,000 in gross proceeds.
Pursuant to its terms the November 2013 Debenture and the November 2013 Warrant, the November 2013 Debenture or November 2013 Warrant may not be exercised if such conversion or exercise would result in the holder beneficially owning in excess of 4.99% of our then issued and outstanding common stock. The holder may, however, increase this limitation (but in no event exceed 9.99% of the number of shares of our common stock issued and outstanding) by providing the Company with 61 days notice that such holder wishes to increase this limitation.
In connection with the November 2013 offering, the Company granted registration rights with respect to the November 2013 Conversion Shares and the November 2013 Warrant Shares. The Company is obligated to use its reasonable best efforts to cause a registration statement registering for resale the November 2013 Conversion Shares and the November 2013 Warrant Shares to be filed no later than 90 days from the November 11, 2013. The Company is required to use it reasonable best efforts to keep the registration statement effective until the November 2013 Conversion Shares and the November 2013 Warrant Shares can be sold under Rule 144(k) of the Securities Act or such earlier date when all November 2013 Conversion Shares and the November 2013 Warrant Shares have been sold publicly; provided, however, the Company shall not be required to keep the registration statement effective for a period of more than three years from November 11, 2013. If a registration statement covering the resale of the November 2013 Conversion Shares is not filed within the 90-day period (the Filing Default), then on the date of the Filing Default and on each monthly anniversary (if the Filing Default has not been cured by such date) until the Filing Default is cured, the Company shall pay in cash to the November 2013 Debenture holder liquidated damages equal to 1.0% of the principal amount represented by the November 2013 Debenture. The liquidated damages will apply on a daily pro-rata basis for any portion of a month prior to curing of the Filing Default. The Company will not be liable for liquidated damages with respect to the November 2013 Warrant or November 2013 Warrant Shares. The Company also granted the investor the right to designate an observer to the Companys Board or, in the alternative, the right to appoint a director to the Companys Board for so long as it owns at least 2,000,000 shares of the Companys common stock (including any shares which the investor has the right to acquire upon conversion of the November 2013 Debenture or exercise of the November 2013 Warrant).
The issuances of the securities in November 2013 were not registered under the Securities Act, in reliance on an exemption from registration under or Section 4(2) of the Securities Act, and Rule 506 promulgated thereunder, based on the fact that all of the investors are accredited investors, as such term is defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D. No underwriting discounts or commissions were paid in connection with the January 2013 offering.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
None.
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data.
The following selected financial data has been derived from our audited Consolidated Financial Statements and should be read in conjunction with those statements, and the notes related thereto, which are included in this Report.
| As of and for the fiscal years ended October 31, | ||||
| 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 |
Revenue from patent assertion activities | $ 388,850 | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ - |
Amortization of revenue from display technology development and license fees received from AUO in 2011 |
- | 940,010 | 872,670 | - |
- |
Amortization of revenue from display technology development and license fees received from Videocon | - | - |
- |
600,000 | 913,332 |
Encryption products & engineering services revenue | - | - | 130,523 | 130,675 | 142,465 |
Inventor royalties and contingent legal fees | 207,743 | - | - | - | - |
Litigation and licensing expense | 108,915 | - | - | - | - |
Cost of encryption products & engineering services | - | - | 34,081 | 82,307 | 65,688 |
Research and development expenses | - | 2,211,506 | 3,124,773 | 3,007,459 | 4,116,200 |
Marketing, general and administrative expenses | 7,989,846 | 2,863,060 | 2,872,605 | 2,889,129 | 4,194,227 |
Impairment in value of investments | 1,184,710 | 127,500 | 1,785,793 | - | 9,218,972 |
Change in value of derivative liability income (loss) | 475,189 | - | - | - | - |
Loss on extinguishment of debt | 343,517 | - | - | - | - |
Interest expense | 1,109,519 | 7,664 | - | - | - |
Dividend income | - | 13,463 | 33,507 | 68,211 | 29,468 |
Interest income | 125 | 3,458 | 2,516 | 4,878 | 20,807 |
Provision for income taxes | - | - | 600,000 | - | - |
Net loss | (10,080,086) | (4,252,799) | (7,378,036) | ( 5,175,131) | (16,489,015) |
Net loss per share of common stock basic and diluted | ($.05) | ($.02) | ($.04) | ($.03) | ($.12) |
Total assets | 5,439,538 | 5,660,676 | 8,645,832 | 10,046,076 | 9,848,446 |
Long term obligations | 5,548,598 | 5,032,273 | - | - | - |
Shareholders equity | (3,320,593) | (1,194,056) | 1,058,033 | 4,595,955 | 4,452,272 |
Cash dividends per share of common stock | - | - | - | - | - |
Item 7.
Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
General
In reviewing Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, you should refer to our Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes related thereto.
Results of Operations
In light of the change in our primary operations from product development and licensing to patent monetization, and patent assertion in connection with the unauthorized use of patented technologies, the comparison of our results of operations may have limited future value.
Fiscal Year ended October 31, 2013 compared with Fiscal Year ended October 31, 2012
Revenue
Revenue decreased by approximately $551,000 in fiscal year 2013, to approximately $389,000, as compared to approximately $940,000 in fiscal year 2012. Fiscal 2013 revenue of approximately $389,000, which was recognized in the fourth quarter, was attributable to patent assertion activities relating to the issuance of four license agreements. The license agreements provided for one-time, non-recurring, lump sum payments in exchange for a non-exclusive retroactive and future license, or covenant not to sue. Accordingly, the earning process was complete and 100% of the revenue was recognized upon execution of the license agreements. The Company received approximately $214,000 of such revenue during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 and recorded a receivable of $175,000.
Revenue from fiscal 2012 was attributable to display technology development and license fees related to the AUO License Agreements. Revenue from the AUO License Agreements was recognized using a proportional performance method over the estimated period that we expected to complete the performance conditions of the agreements. Revenue recognition of display technology development and license fees has been suspended pending resolution of the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit. See - Agreements Relating to Previous Business Operations above in Item 1.
Inventor Royalties and Contingent Legal Fees
Inventor royalties and contingent legal fees of approximately $208,000 are attributable to our patent assertion activities initiated during fiscal 2013, and are expensed in the period that the related revenues are recognized. The economic terms of patent agreements and contingent legal fee arrangements vary across the patent portfolios owned or controlled by our operating subsidiaries. We did not incur any such costs during fiscal year 2012.
Litigation and Licensing Expenses
Litigation and licensing expenses of approximately $109,000 are attributable to our patent assertion activities initiated during fiscal 2013 and the AUO/EInk Lawsuit initiated in January 2013. We did not incur any such costs during fiscal year 2012.
Research and Development Expenses
We discontinued all research and development activity during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012. Accordingly, research and development expenses have decreased to $-0- in fiscal year 2013 from approximately $2,212,000 during fiscal year 2012.
Marketing, General and Administrative Expenses
Marketing, general and administrative expenses increased by approximately $5,127,000 to approximately $7,990,000 in fiscal year 2013, from approximately $2,863,000 in fiscal 2012. The increase in marketing, general and administrative expenses was principally due to an increase in employee stock option expense of approximately $2,311,000, an increase in consultant stock option expense of approximately $995,000, an increase in investor relations and public relations expense of approximately $670,000, an increase in legal and accounting fees of approximately $286,000, an increase in employee compensation and related costs, other than stock option expense, of approximately $266,000, an increase in rent expense of approximately $219,000, and an increase in consultant fees other than stock option expense of approximately $162,000. As of October 31, 2013, there was unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements for stock options granted to employees and directors of approximately $2,352,000, which will be recognized in future periods upon vesting of the stock options. In addition, as of October 31, 2013, there was unrecognized consulting expense related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements for stock options granted to consultants of approximately $1,370,000, which will be recognized in future periods upon vesting of the stock options. The increase in rent expense in fiscal year 2013 is a result of discontinuing research and development activities in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012 and the discontinuation of allocating certain overhead cost, such as rent expense, to research and development expense. During fiscal year 2013 we vacated and returned a substantial portion of our leased facilities to the landlord for possible re-letting and at October 31, 2013 we recorded an expense of approximately $65,000 related to future rentals of unused facilities. The additional legal and accounting fees and shareholder relations expense are related to the Companys restructuring, which commenced in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year 2012 and the filing of a registration statement with the SEC during fiscal year 2013.
Change in Fair Value of Derivative Liability
The gain recorded from the change in fair value of derivative liability was approximately $475,000 in fiscal 2013, compared to $-0- in fiscal 2012. The derivative liability is related to the issuance of the January 2013 convertible debentures and is changed each reporting period based upon the market price of common stock and the time remaining to the maturity of the debentures.
Loss on Extinguishment of Debt
Loss on extinguishment of debt of approximately $344,000 in fiscal year 2013 compared to $-0- in fiscal year 2012, related to the conversion of $325,000 principal amount of Convertible Debentures due January 2015 into shares of our common stock.
Interest Expense
Interest expense increased to approximately $1,110,000 in fiscal year 2013 from approximately $8,000 in fiscal year 2012, due to interest expense, amortization of debt discount and debt discount expensed upon conversion of debentures into shares of our common stock. The full principal amount of $750,000 of the Convertible Debentures due September 2016 was converted into shares of common stock during fiscal year 2013 resulting in a charge to interest expense of approximately $717,000 during fiscal year 2013, as the associated beneficial conversion feature was fully amortized.
Dividend Income
Dividend income decreased to $-0- in fiscal year 2013 compared to approximately $13,000 in fiscal year 2012. Dividend income received in fiscal year 2012 was related to the Videocon GDRs acquired in December 2007.
Interest Income
Interest income decreased to approximately $-0- in fiscal year 2013 compared to approximately $3,000 the fiscal year 2012.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
In September 2012, the Company received aggregate gross proceeds of $750,000 from the issuance of 8% convertible debentures due September 12, 2016 in a private placement, of which $300,000 was sold to the Companys current Chairman and then Chief Executive Officer and one other director of the Company. The September 2012 debentures paid interest quarterly and were convertible into shares of our common stock at a conversion price of $0.092 per share on or before September 12, 2016. The Company recorded a discount to the carrying amount of the September 2012 debentures of approximately $717,000 related to the debentures beneficial conversion feature. The Company was permitted to prepay the September 2012 debentures at any time without penalty upon 30 days prior notice. The Company also had the option to pay interest on the September 2012 debentures in common stock. During the three month period ended April 30, 2013, the entire $750,000 principal amount of the September 2012 debentures were converted into 8,152,170 shares of common stock and an additional 100,725 shares were issued in payment of approximately $9,300 of accrued interest through the conversion date. The conversion of the September 2012 debentures resulted in a charge to interest expense of approximately $717,000 during the second quarter of fiscal 2013.
In January 2013, we received aggregate gross proceeds of $1,765,000 from the issuance of 8% convertible debentures due January 25, 2015, of which $250,000 was received from our current President, Chief Executive Officer and director, and two other directors of the Company. The January 2013 debentures pay interest quarterly and are convertible into shares of our common stock at a conversion price of $0.15 per share on or before January 25, 2015. The embedded conversion feature has certain weighted average anti-dilution protection provisions which would be triggered if the Company issues its common stock, or certain common stock equivalents, (as defined) at a price below $0.15 per share. We have the option to pay any interest on the January 2013 debentures in common stock based on the average of the closing prices of our common stock for the 10 trading days immediately preceding the interest payment date. We also have the option to pay any interest on the January 2013 debentures with additional debentures. We may prepay the January 2013 debentures at any time without penalty upon 30 days prior notice but only if the sales price of the common stock on the principal market on which the common stock is primarily listed and quoted for trading is at least $0.30 for 20 trading days in any 30-day trading period ending no more than 15 days before the Companys prepayment notice. In conjunction with the issuance of the January 2013 debentures, we issued warrants to purchase 5,882,745 shares of our common stock. Each January 2013 warrant grants the holder the right to purchase one share of our common stock at the purchase price of $0.30 per share on or before January 25, 2016. In connection with the sale of January 2013 debentures, we paid a placement fee of approximately $41,000 and issued the placement agent a warrant to purchase 276,014 shares of common stock with identical provisions as January 2013 warrants issued with the January 2013 debentures. We also agreed to register the common stock issuable upon conversion of the January 2013 debentures and exercise of the January 2013 warrants. The January 2013 warrants may be exercised on a cashless basis only if there is not an effective registration statement covering such shares at the time the warrants are exercised. During June and July 2013, holders of $325,000 of principal of the January 2013 debentures converted their holdings into an aggregate of 2,166,775 shares of common stock and an additional 20,125 shares of common stock were issued in payment of accrued interest.
In April 2013, we entered into a common stock purchase agreement (the Stock Purchase Agreement) with Aspire Capital Fund LLC (Aspire Capital), which provides that Aspire Capital is committed to purchase up to an aggregate of $10 million of shares of our common stock over the two-year term of the agreement. In consideration for entering into the Stock Purchase Agreement, concurrently with the execution of the agreement, we issued to Aspire Capital 3,500,000 shares of our common stock with a fair value of $700,000 as a commitment fee. Upon execution of the Stock Purchase Agreement, Aspire Capital purchased 2,500,000 shares for $500,000. In order to sell any additional shares under the Stock Purchase Agreement, we were required to have a registration statement covering the shares issued to Aspire Capital declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). Such registration statement was declared effective by the SEC in June 2013.
Under the Stock Purchase Agreement there are two ways that we can elect to sell shares of common stock to Aspire Capital. On any business day we can select: (1) through a regular purchase of up to 200,000 shares (but not to exceed $200,000) at a known price based on the market price of our common stock prior to the time of each sale, and (2) through a volume-weighted average price, or VWAP, purchase of a number of shares up to 30% of the volume traded on the purchase date at a price equal to the lesser of (i) the closing sale price on the purchase date or (ii) 95% of the VWAP for such purchase date. The Company can only require a VWAP purchase if the closing sale price for our Common Stock on the notice day for the VWAP purchase is higher than $0.50. During the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2013 we sold an additional 2,880,000 shares of our common stock to Aspire Capital for approximately $592,000.
The number of shares covered by and the timing of, each purchase notice are determined by us, at our sole discretion. The Company cannot execute any sales under the Stock Purchase Agreement when the closing for our common stock is less than $0.15. Aspire Capital has no right to require any sales from us, but is obligated to make purchases as directed in accordance with the Stock Purchase Agreement. The Stock Purchase Agreement may be terminated by us at any time, at our discretion, without any cost or penalty. We incurred expenses of approximately $42,000 in connection with the execution of the Stock Purchase Agreement in addition to the 3,500,000 shares of our common stock we issued as a commitment fee.
On May 29, 2013, the Company offered the holders of the warrants issued in our February 2011 private placement, exercisable at a purchase price of $0.178 per share, the opportunity to exercise the warrants at a reduced exercise price of $0.16 per share (payable in cash) during the period ended July 15, 2013. In connection therewith, our Chairman, our Chief Financial Officer and director, and one other director of the Company exercised warrants to purchase 2,380,000 shares of our Common Stock and we received gross proceeds of approximately $381,000. Utilizing the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, the Company determined that the aggregate incremental fair value of the repriced warrants was immaterial and no discount charge was recorded. In addition, we issued 547,493 shares of our common stock upon the exercise, on a cashless basis, of warrants to purchase 1,400,000 shares at a purchase price of $0.178 per share.
In November 2013, we received gross proceeds of $3,500,000 from the issuance of a 6% Convertible Debenture due November 11, 2016, to a single institutional investor. The November 2013 debenture pays interest annually and is convertible into shares of our common stock at a conversion price of $0.1892 per share on or before November 11, 2016. The embedded conversion feature has certain anti-dilution protection provisions which would be triggered if the Company issues its common stock, or certain common stock equivalents, (as defined) at a price below $0.1419 per share. In conjunction with the issuance of the November 2013 debentures, we issued warrants to purchase 9,249,472 shares of our common stock. Each November 2013 warrant grants the holder the right to purchase one share of our common stock at the purchase price of $0.3784 per share on or before November 11, 2016. We also agreed to register the common stock issuable upon conversion of the November 2013 debentures and exercise of the November 2013 warrants. The November 2013 warrants may be exercised on a cashless basis only if there is not an effective registration statement covering such shares at the time the warrants are exercised.
Based on currently available information, we believe that our existing cash and cash equivalents together with expected cash flows from patent licensing and enforcement, the sale of our common stock under the Stock Purchase Agreement with Aspire Capital Fund LLC (described in Item 5 above Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities), the gross proceeds of $3,500,000 received from the private placement in November 2013 of a 6% Convertible Debenture (also described in Item 5 below Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities), and other potential sources of cash flow will be sufficient to enable us to continue our patent licensing and enforcement activities for at least 12 months. However, our projections of future cash needs and cash flows may differ from actual results. If current cash on hand and cash that may be generated from patent licensing and enforcement activities are insufficient to satisfy our liquidity requirements, we may seek to sell equity securities or obtain loans from various financial institutions where possible. The sale of additional equity securities or securities convertible into or exercisable for equity securities could result in dilution to our stockholders. We can give no assurance that we will generate sufficient cash flows in the future (through licensing and enforcement of patents, or otherwise) to satisfy our liquidity requirements or sustain future operations, or that other sources of funding, such as sales of equity or debt, would be available, if needed, on favorable terms or at all. We can also give no assurance that we will have sufficient funds to repay our outstanding indebtedness. If we cannot obtain such funding if needed or if we cannot sufficiently reduce operating expenses, we would need to curtail or cease some or all of our operations.
The following table presents our expected cash requirements for contractual obligations outstanding as of October 31, 2013:
|
| Payments Due by Period | ||||||||
Contractual Obligations |
| Less than 1 year |
| 1-3 years |
| 3-5 years |
| After 5 years |
| Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-cancelable Operating Leases |
| $ 228,000 |
| $ 19,000 |
|
$ - |
|
$ - |
| $ 247,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Convertible Debentures due 2015 |
|
- |
|
1,440,000 |
|
- |
|
- |
|
1,440,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Secured Loan Obligation to Mars Overseas |
|
- |
| 5,000,000 |
|
- |
| - |
| 5,000,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Contractual Cash Obligations |
| $ 228,000 |
| $ 6,459,000 |
|
$ - |
| $ - |
| $ 6,687,000 |
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have no variable interest entities or other off-balance sheet obligation arrangements.
Critical Accounting Policies
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In preparing these financial statements, we make assumptions, judgments and estimates that can have a significant impact on amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements. We base our assumptions, judgments and estimates on historical experience and various other factors that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ materially from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. On a regular basis, we evaluate our assumptions, judgments and estimates and make changes accordingly.
We believe that, of the significant accounting policies discussed in Note 2 to our notes to consolidated financial statements, the following accounting policies require our most difficult, subjective or complex judgments:
·
Revenue recognition;
·
Investment Securities;
·
Stock-Based Compensation; and
·
Convertible Debentures
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognized when (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (ii) all obligations have been substantially performed pursuant to the terms of the arrangement, (iii) amounts are fixed or determinable, and (iv) the collectability of amounts is reasonably assured.
Patent Monetization and Patent Assertion
In general, revenue arrangements provide for the payment of contractually determined fees in consideration for the grant of certain intellectual property rights for patented technologies owned or controlled by our operating subsidiaries. These rights typically include some combination of the following: (i) the grant of a non-exclusive, retroactive and future license to manufacture and/or sell products covered by patented technologies owned or controlled by our operating subsidiaries, (ii) a covenant-not-to-sue, (iii) the release of the licensee from certain claims, and (iv) the dismissal of any pending litigation. The intellectual property rights granted are perpetual in nature, extending until the expiration of the related patents. Pursuant to the terms of these agreements, our operating subsidiaries have no further obligation with respect to the grant of the non-exclusive retroactive and future licenses, covenants-not-to-sue, releases, and other deliverables, including no express or implied obligation on our operating subsidiaries part to maintain or upgrade the technology, or provide future support or services. Generally, the agreements provide for the grant of the licenses, covenants-not-to-sue, releases, and other significant deliverables upon execution of the agreement. As such, the earnings process is complete and revenue is recognized upon the execution of the agreement, when collectability is reasonably assured, and when all other revenue recognition criteria have been met.
Display Technology Development and License Fees
We have assessed the revenue guidance of Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 605-25 Multiple-Element Arrangements (ASC 605-25) to determine whether multiple deliverables in our arrangements with AUO represent separate units of accounting. Under the AUO License Agreements, we received initial development and license fees of $3 million, of aggregate development and license fees of up to $10 million. The additional $7 million in development and license fees were payable upon completion of certain conditions for the respective technologies. We have determined that the transfer of the licensed patents and technology and the effort involved in completion of the conditions for the respective technologies represent a single unit of accounting for each technology. Accordingly, using a proportional performance method, during the third quarter of fiscal year 2011 we began recognizing the $3 million initial development and license fees over the estimated periods that we expected to complete the conditions for the respective technologies. We have not recognized any portion of the $7 million of additional development and license fees as either deferred revenue or revenue as it is considered contingent revenue. The AUO License Agreements also provided for the basis for royalty payments on future production, if any, by AUO to CopyTele, which we have determined represent separate units of accounting. We have not recognized any royalty income under the AUO License Agreements.
Prior to initiation of the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit, at each reporting period we assessed the progress in completing our performance obligations under the AUO License Agreements and recognized development and license fee revenue over the remaining estimated period that we expected to complete the conditions for the respective technologies. Commencing in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, revenue recognition under the AUO License Agreements was suspended pending resolution of the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit. For more details on the AUO/E Ink Lawsuit, please see Note 8, Commitments and Contingencies Litigation Matters herein.
During the fiscal years ended October 31, 2013 and 2012 we recognized approximately $-0- and $940,000, respectively, of development and license fee revenue from AUO. Development and license fee payments received from AUO which are in excess of the amounts recognized as revenue (approximately $1,187,000 as of October 31, 2013) are recorded as non-refundable deferred revenue on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
Investment Securities
We classify our investment securities as available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are recorded at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses, net of the related tax effect, on available-for-sale securities are excluded from earnings and are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. Realized gains and losses from the sale of available-for-sale securities are determined on a specific identification basis. Dividend and interest income are recognized when earned.
We monitor the value of our investments for indicators of impairment, including changes in market conditions and the operating results of the underlying investment that may result in the inability to recover the carrying value of the investment. In evaluating our investment in Videocon GDRs at October 31, 2013, we determined that based on both the duration and continuing magnitude of the market price decline compared to the carrying cost basis of approximately $5,382,000, and the uncertainty of its recovery we recorded a write-down of the investment of approximately of $1,185,000 and established a new cost basis of approximately $4,197,000. During fiscal year 2012 we discontinued utilizing Volga, for contract research and development work. In evaluating our investment in Volga-Svet, Ltd., (Volga), a Russian company, at October 31, 2012, we determined that the discontinuation of funding from CTI and lack of available financial information from Volga has impaired the value of our investment in Volga.
Stock-Based Compensation
We account for stock options granted to employees and directors using the accounting guidance in ASC 718. We recognize compensation expense for stock option awards over the requisite or implied service period of the grant. We recorded stock-based compensation expense, related to stock options granted to employees and directors, of approximately $2,693,000 and $615,000 during the years ended October 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We account for stock options granted to consultants using the accounting guidance under ASC 505-50. We recognized stock-based compensation expense for stock options granted to non-employee consultants during the years ended October 31, 2013 and 2012, of approximately $1,105,000 and $110,000, respectively. See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.
We account for stock awards granted to employees and consultants based on their grant date fair value, in accordance with ASC 718 and ASC 505-50, respectively. We recorded stock-based compensation expense for the years ended October31, 2013 and 2012, of approximately $-0- and $927,000, respectively, for the shares of common stock issued to employees. In addition, we recorded consulting expense for the years ended October 31, 2013 and 2012 of approximately $305,000 and $76,000, respectively, for the shares of common stock issued to consultants.
Determining the appropriate fair value model and calculating the fair value of stock-based awards requires judgment, including estimating stock price volatility, forfeiture rates and expected term. If factors change and we employ different assumptions in the application of ASC 718 and ASC 505-50 in future periods, the compensation expense that we record may differ significantly from what we have recorded in the current period. See Note 3 to the condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information.
Convertible Debentures
The Company accounts for hybrid contracts that feature conversion options in accordance with applicable generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). ASC 815 Derivatives and Hedging Activities, (ASC 815) requires companies to bifurcate conversion options from their host instruments and account for them as free standing derivative financial instruments according to certain criteria. The criteria includes circumstances in which (a) the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative instrument are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract, (b) the hybrid instrument that embodies both the embedded derivative instrument and the host contract is not re-measured at fair value under otherwise applicable generally accepted accounting principles with changes in fair value reported in earnings as they occur and (c) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative instrument would be considered a derivative instrument.
Conversion options that contain variable settlement features such as provisions to adjust the conversion price upon subsequent issuances of equity or equity linked securities at exercise prices more favorable than that featured in the hybrid contract generally result in their bifurcation from the host instrument.
The Company accounts for convertible instruments, when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should not be bifurcated from their host instruments, in accordance with ASC 470-20 Debt with Conversion and Other Options (ASC 470-20). Under ASC 470-20 the Company records, when necessary, discounts to convertible notes for the intrinsic value of conversion options embedded in debt instruments based upon the differences between the fair value of the underlying common stock at the commitment date of the note transaction and the effective conversion price embedded in the note. The Company accounts for convertible instruments (when the Company has determined that the embedded conversion options should be bifurcated from their host instruments) in accordance with ASC 815. Under ASC 815, a portion of the proceeds received upon the issuance of the hybrid contract are allocated to the fair value of the derivative. The derivative is subsequently marked to market at each reporting date based on current fair value, with the changes in fair value reported in results of operations.
The conversion feature of the convertible debenture issued on January 25, 2013 qualified as an embedded derivative instrument and was bifurcated from the host convertible debenture. Accordingly, this instrument has been classified as a derivative liability in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of October 31, 2013. Derivative liabilities are initially recorded at fair value and are then re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in fair value recognized in earnings during the reporting period.
Effect of Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update 2011-12 (ASU 2011-12), Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05. This amendment defers the effective date of the requirement to present separate line items on the income statement for reclassification adjustments of items out of accumulated other comprehensive income into net income. ASU 2011-12 is effective at the same time as Accounting Standards Update 2011-05, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income (ASU 2011-05), so that entities will not be required to comply with the presentation requirements in ASU 2011-05 that this ASU 2011-12 is deferring. ASUs 2011-12 and 2011-05 are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company adopted ASUs 2011-05 and 2011-12 on November 1, 2012. The adoption of these new disclosure requirements did not have a material impact on our disclosures or consolidated financial statements.
In October 2012, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2012-04 (ASU 2012-04), Technical Corrections and Improvements. The amendments in this update cover a wide range of topics and include technical corrections and improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification. The amendments in ASU 2012-04 will be effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The Company adopted ASU 2012-04 on February 1, 2013. The adoption of ASU 2012-04 did not have a material impact on the Companys consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In October 2012, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2012-03 (ASU 2012-03), Technical Amendments and Corrections to SEC Sections. ASU 2012-03 is issued to amend certain SEC paragraphs in the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, including Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin, Technical Amendments, and Corrections Related to FASB Accounting Codification. The amendments in ASU 2012-03 will be effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The Company adopted ASU 2012-03 on February 1, 2013. The adoption of ASU 2012-03 did not have a material impact on the Companys consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
At October 31, 2013, our investment in Videocon GDRs is recorded at fair value of approximately $4,197,000 and has exposure to additional price risk. The fair value of the Videocon GDRs is based on the underlying price of Videocons equity shares which are traded on stock exchanges in India with prices quoted in rupees. Accordingly, the fair value of the Videocon GDRs is subject to market risk and foreign exchange risk. The potential loss in fair value resulting from a hypothetical 10% adverse change in prices of Videocon equity shares quoted by Indian stock exchanges and in foreign currency exchange rates, as of October 31, 2013, amounts to approximately $420,000.
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
See accompanying Index to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None.
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer and Vice President - Finance, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 and 15d-15 of the Exchange Act. Based upon that evaluation, our President and Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer and Vice President - Finance concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of fiscal year 2013.
Managements Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Our management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, does not expect that our internal controls over financial reporting will prevent all errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, cannot provide full assurance that the objectives of the control system are met, and no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within a company have been detected. Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidated financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2013. In making this assessment our management used the criteria for effective internal control set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control Integrated Framework. Based on this assessment, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of October 31, 2013.
This Report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Managements report was not subject to attestation by the Companys registered public accounting firm pursuant to a permanent exemption of the Commission that permits the Company to provide only managements report in this Report. Accordingly, our managements assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2013 has not been audited by our auditors, Haskell & White LLP, or any other independent registered accounting firm.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Companys internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B.
Other Information.
None.
PART IV
Item 15.
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
(b)
Exhibits
3.1
Certificate of Incorporation, as amended. (Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended July 31, 1992 and Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012).
3.2
Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation. (Previously submitted with our Form 10-K dated January 16, 2014.)
3.3
Amended and Restated By-laws. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our Form 8-K dated November 8, 2012.)
4.1
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of April 23, 2013, by and between the Company and Aspire Capital Fund, LLC. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to our Form S-1, dated April 24, 2013.)
10.1
CopyTele, Inc. 2003 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to our Form S-8 dated May 5, 2003.)
10.2
Amendment No. 1 to the CopyTele, Inc. 2003 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(e) to our Form S-8 dated November 9, 2004.)
10.3
Amendment No. 2 to the CopyTele, Inc. 2003 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2006.)
10.4
Amendment No. 3 to the CopyTele, Inc. 2003 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2006.)
10.5
Amendment No. 4 to the CopyTele, Inc. 2003 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(g) to our Form S-8 dated September 21, 2007.)
10.6
Amendment No. 5 to the CopyTele, Inc. 2003 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(g) to our Form S-8 dated January 21, 2009.)
10.7
Amendment No. 6 to the CopyTele, Inc. 2003 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to our Form 8-K, dated July 20, 2010.)
10.8
CopyTele, Inc. 2010 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, dated July 20, 2010.)
10.9
Amendment No. 1 to the CopyTele, Inc. 2010 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, dated July 7, 2011.)
10.10
Amendment No. 2 to the CopyTele, Inc. 2010 Share Incentive Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K, dated September 5, 2012).
10.11
Loan and Pledge Agreement, dated November 2, 2007, by and between Mars Overseas Limited and CopyTele International Ltd. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2008.)
10.12
Loan and Pledge Agreement, dated November 2, 2007, by and between CopyTele International Ltd. and Mars Overseas Limited. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2008.)
10.13
Employment Agreement, dated as of September 19, 2012, between the Company and Robert Berman. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.35 to our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012.) (Portions of Section 4 of this exhibit have been redacted and filed separately with the Commission in accordance with a request for, and related Order by the Commission, dated May 3, 2013, File No. 0-11254-CF#29240, granting confidential treatment for portions of Section 4 of this exhibit to pursuant to Rule 24b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.)
10.14
Employment Agreement, dated as of September 19, 2012, between the Company and John Roop. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.36 to our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012.) (Portions of Section 4 of this exhibit have been redacted and filed separately with the Commission in accordance with a request for, and related Order by the Commission, dated May 3, 2013, File No. 0-11254-CF#29240, granting confidential treatment for portions of Section 4 of this exhibit to pursuant to Rule 24b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.)
10.15
Consulting Agreement, dated as of September 19, 2012, between the Company and Amit Kumar. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.37 to our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012.) (Portions of Section 4 of this exhibit have been redacted and filed separately with the Commission in accordance with a request for, and related Order by the Commission, dated May 3, 2013, File No. 0-11254-CF#29240, granting confidential treatment for portions of Section 4 of this exhibit to pursuant to Rule 24b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.)
21
Subsidiaries of CopyTele, Inc. (Previously submitted with our Form 10-K dated January 16, 2014.)
23.1
Consent of Haskell & White LLP. (Previously submitted with our Form 10-K dated January 16, 2014.)
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, dated April 16, 2014. (Filed herewith.)
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, dated April 16, 2014. (Filed herewith.)
32.1
Statement of Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 1350 of Title 18 of the United States Code, dated April 16, 2014. (Filed herewith.)
32.2
Statement of Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 1350 of Title 18 of the United States Code, dated April 16, 2014. (Filed herewith.)
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
COPYTELE, INC.
By: /s/ Robert A. Berman
Robert Berman
President and
April 16, 2014
Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.
By: /s/ Robert A. Berman
Robert Berman
President, Chief Executive Officer
April 16, 2014 and Director (Principal Executive Officer)
By: /s/ Henry P. Herms
Henry P. Herms
April 16, 2014 and Accounting Officer)
By: /s/ Lewis H. Titterton Jr.
Lewis H. Titterton Jr.
April 16, 2014 Chairman of the Board
Dr. Amit Kumar
April 16, 2014 Director
By: /s/ Kent B. Williams
April 16, 2014 Director
By: /s/ Bruce F. Johnson
Bruce F. Johnson
April 16, 2014 Director