10-Q 1 bkti_10q.htm QUARTERLY REPORT bkti_10q
 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
☑ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2021
 
OR
 
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
 
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period from _________ to _________
 
Commission file number 001-32644
 
BK TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Nevada
83-4064262
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
 
7100 Technology Drive
West Melbourne, Florida 32904
(Address of principal executive offices and Zip Code)
 
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (321) 984-1414
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
Title of Each Class
 
Trading Symbol(s)
 
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, par value $.60 per share
 
BKTI
 
NYSE American
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☑ No ☐
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☑ No ☐
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer
Accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company
 
 
Emerging growth company
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☑
 
There were 12,536,471 shares of common stock, $0.60 par value, of the registrant outstanding at May 7, 2021.
 

 
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
i
 
 
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1. 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
BK TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands, except share data)
 
 
 
March 31,
2021
 
 
December 31,
2020
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
 
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 $6,363 
 $6,826 
Trade accounts receivable, net
  4,566 
  6,466 
Inventories, net
  10,511 
  9,441 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
  1,821 
  1,878 
Total current assets
  23,261 
  24,611 
 
    
    
Property, plant and equipment, net
  4,299 
  3,566 
Right-of-use (ROU) asset
  2,689 
  2,887 
Investment in securities
  2,219 
  2,014 
Deferred tax assets, net
  4,300 
  4,300 
Other assets
  118 
  112 
Total assets
 $36,886 
 $37,490 
 
    
    
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
    
    
 
    
    
Current liabilities:
    
    
Accounts payable
 $5,418 
 $5,119 
Accrued compensation and related taxes
  1,320 
  1,635 
Accrued warranty expense
  718 
  791 
Accrued other expenses and other current liabilities
  162 
  307 
Dividends payable
  251 
  250 
Short-term lease liability
  418 
  525 
Credit facility
  800 
   
Note payable-current portion
  82 
  82 
Deferred revenue
  847 
  757 
Total current liabilities
  10,016 
  9,466 
 
    
    
Note payable, net of current portion
  226 
  247 
Long-term lease liability
  2,607 
  2,702 
Deferred revenue
  2,323 
  2,551 
Total liabilities
  15,172 
  14,966 
Commitments and contingencies
    
    
Stockholders’ equity:
    
    
Preferred stock; $1.00 par value; 1,000,000 authorized shares; non-issued or outstanding
   
   
Common stock; $.60 par value; 20,000,000 authorized shares; 13,986,871 and 13,962,366 issued and 12,536,471 and 12,511,966 outstanding shares at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively
  8,392 
  8,377 
Additional paid-in capital
  26,466 
  26,346 
Accumulated deficit
  (7,742)
  (6,797)
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,450,400 shares at March 31, 2021, and December 31, 2020, respectively
  (5,402)
  (5,402)
Total stockholders’ equity
  21,714 
  22,524 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 $36,886 
 $37,490 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
1
 
 
BK TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In thousands, except share and per share data) (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
March 31, 2021
 
 
March 31, 2020
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales, net
 $8,564 
 $10,889 
Expenses
    
    
Cost of products
  5,468 
  6,994 
Selling, general and administrative
  3,973 
  4,743 
Total expenses
  9,441 
  11,737 
 
    
    
Operating loss
  (877)
  (848)
 
    
    
Other (expense) income:
    
    
Net interest (expense) income
  (4)
  9 
Gain (loss) on investment in securities
  205 
  (306)
Other expense
  (18)
  (47)
Total other income (expense)
  183 
  (344)
 
    
    
Loss before income taxes
  (694)
  (1,192)
 
    
    
Income tax benefit
   
   
 
    
    
Net loss
 $(694)
 $(1,192)
 
    
    
Net loss per share-basic and diluted:
 $(0.06)
 $(0.09)
Weighted average shares outstanding-basic and diluted
  12,517,412 
  12,555,108 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
2
 
 
BK TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In thousands) (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
March 31, 2021
 
 
March 31, 2020
 
Operating activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
 $(694)
 $(1,192)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
    
    
Inventories allowances
  289 
  38 
Depreciation and amortization
  298 
  320 
Share-based compensation expense-stock options
  32 
  30 
Share-based compensation expense-restricted stock units
  103 
  21 
(Gain) loss on investment in securities
  (205)
  306 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
    
    
Trade accounts receivable
  1,900 
  (626)
Inventories
  (1,359)
  2,538 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
  57 
  (69)
Other assets
  (6)
  28 
Lease liability
  (4)
  23 
Accounts payable
  299 
  (474)
Accrued compensation and related taxes
  (315)
  (226)
Accrued warranty expense
  (73)
  (149)
Deferred revenue
  (138)
  424 
Accrued other expenses and other current liabilities
  (145)
  (77)
Net cash provided by operating activities
  39 
  915 
 
    
    
Investing activities
    
    
Purchases of property, plant, and equipment
  (1,031)
  (131)
Net cash used in investing activities
  (1,031)
  (131)
 
    
    
Financing activities
    
    
Cash dividends paid
  (250)
  (252)
Repurchase of common stock
   
  (243)
Proceeds from credit facilities
  800 
   
Repayment of note payable
  (21)
  (19)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
  529 
  (514)
 
    
    
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
  (463)
  270 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
  6,826 
  4,676 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 $6,363 
 $4,946 
 
    
    
Supplemental disclosure
    
    
Cash paid for interest
 $4 
 $5 
Non-cash financing activity
    
    
Common stock issued under restricted stock units
 $84 
 $ 
  
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
3
 
 
BK TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Unaudited
(In thousands, except share and per share data and percentages)
 
1.        
Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
 
Basis of Presentation
 
The condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2021, the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, have been prepared by BK Technologies Corporation (the “Company” or “we”), and are unaudited. On March 28, 2019, BK Technologies, Inc., the predecessor of BK Technologies Corporation, implemented a holding company reorganization, which resulted in BK Technologies Corporation becoming the direct parent company of, and the successor issuer to, BK Technologies, Inc. For the purpose of this report, references to “we” or the “Company” or its management or business at any period prior to the holding company reorganization (March 28, 2019) refer to those of BK Technologies, Inc. as the predecessor company and its subsidiaries and thereafter to those of BK Technologies Corporation and its subsidiaries, except as otherwise specified or to the extent the context otherwise indicates. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, which include normal, recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation, have been made. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The condensed consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2020, has been derived from the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements at that date.
 
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 3, 2021. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2021, are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for a full year.
 
Principles of Consolidation
 
The accounts of the Company have been included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
The Company consolidates entities in which it has a controlling financial interest. The Company determines whether it has a controlling financial interest in an entity by first evaluating whether the entity is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) or a voting interest entity.
 
VIEs are entities in which (i) the total equity investment at risk is not sufficient to enable the entity to finance its activities independently, or (ii) the at-risk equity holders do not have the normal characteristics of a controlling financial interest. A controlling financial interest in a VIE is present when an enterprise has one or more variable interests that have both (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The enterprise with a controlling financial interest is the primary beneficiary and consolidates the VIE.
 
Voting interest entities lack one or more of the characteristics of a VIE. The usual condition for a controlling financial interest is ownership of a majority voting interest for a corporation or a majority of kick-out or participating rights for a limited partnership.
 
When the Company does not have a controlling financial interest in an entity but exerts significant influence over the entity’s operating and financial policies (generally defined as owning a voting or economic interest of between 20% to 50%), the Company’s investment is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. If the Company does not have a controlling financial interest in, or exert significant influence over, an entity, the Company accounts for its investment at fair value, if the fair value option was elected, or at cost.
 
 
4
 
 
The Company has an investment in FG Financial Group, Inc. (formerly 1347 Property Insurance Holdings, Inc.), made through FGI 1347 Holdings, LP, a consolidated VIE.
 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable, investment in securities, accounts payable, accrued expenses, notes payable, credit facilities, and other liabilities. As of March 31, 2021, and December 31, 2020, the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses, notes payable, and other liabilities approximated their respective fair value due to the short-term nature and maturity of these instruments.
 
The Company uses observable market data assumptions (Level 1 inputs, as defined in accounting guidance) that it believes market participants would use in pricing investment in securities.
 
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
 
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, “Disclosure Framework–Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement,” which modifies the disclosure requirements on fair value measurements in Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, including the removal of certain disclosure requirements. The amendments in the ASU are effective for all entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted upon issuance of the ASU. The Company adopted this guidance as of January 1, 2020, and the adoption did not have an impact on its consolidated financial statements.
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
The Company does not discuss recent pronouncements that are not anticipated to have a material impact on or are unrelated to its financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or disclosures.
 
 
5
 
 
2.        
Significant Events and Transactions
 
Pursuant to the Company’s capital return program, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.02 per share of the Company’s common stock on March 16, 2021, to stockholders of record as of April 12, 2021. These dividends were paid on April 26, 2021.
 
3.        
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
 
The allowance for doubtful accounts on trade receivables was approximately $50 on gross trade receivables of $4,616 and $6,516 at March 31, 2021, and December 31, 2020, respectively. This allowance is used to state trade receivables at a net realizable value or the amount that the Company estimates will be collected of the Company’s gross trade receivables.
 
4.         
Inventories, net
 
Inventories, which are presented net of allowance for obsolete and slow-moving inventory, consisted of the following:
 
 
 
March 31,
2021
 
 
December 31,
2020
 
Finished goods
 $2,350 
 $1,975 
Work in process
  3,441 
  3,288 
Raw materials
  4,720 
  4,178 
 
 $10,511 
 $9,441 
 
Allowances for slow-moving, excess, or obsolete inventory are used to state the Company’s inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value. The allowances were approximately $809 at March 31, 2021, compared with approximately $520 at December 31, 2020.
 
5.        
Income Taxes
 
The Company has not recorded income tax expense or benefit for the three months ended March 31, 2021 or 2020.
 
The Company’s income tax provision is based on management’s estimate of the effective tax rate for the full year. The tax provision (benefit) in any period will be affected by, among other things, permanent, as well as temporary, differences in the deductibility of certain items, in addition to changes in tax legislation. As a result, the Company may experience significant fluctuations in the effective book tax rate (that is, tax expense divided by pre-tax book income) from period to period.
 
As of March 31, 2021, the Company’s net deferred tax assets totaled approximately $4,300 and were primarily derived from research and development tax credits, deferred revenue, and net operating loss carryforwards.
 
In order to fully utilize the net deferred tax assets, the Company will need to generate sufficient taxable income in future years. The Company analyzed all positive and negative evidence to determine if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not to realize the benefit of the net deferred tax assets. The recognition of the net deferred tax assets and related tax benefits is based upon the Company’s conclusions regarding, among other considerations, estimates of future earnings based on information currently available and current and anticipated customers, contracts, and product introductions, as well as historical operating results and certain tax planning strategies.
 
Based on the analysis of all available evidence, both positive and negative, the Company has concluded that it does not have the ability to generate sufficient taxable income in the necessary period to utilize the entire benefit for the deferred tax assets. Accordingly, the Company established a valuation allowance of $98. The Company cannot presently estimate what, if any, changes to the valuation of its deferred tax assets may be deemed appropriate in the future. If the Company incurs future losses, it may be necessary to record additional valuation allowance related to the deferred tax assets recognized as of March 31, 2021.
 
 
6
 
 
6.        
Investment in Securities
 
1347 LP
 
The Company has an investment in a limited partnership, FGI 1347 Holdings, LP, of which the Company is the sole limited partner. FGI 1347 Holdings, LP (“1347 LP”), was established for the purpose of investing in securities.
 
Affiliates of Fundamental Global Investors, LLC (“FG”), serve as the general partner and the investment manager of 1347 LP, and the Company is the sole limited partner. As the sole limited partner, the Company is entitled to 100% of net assets held by 1347 LP, and the Company is the sole limited partner. As the sole limited partner, the Company is entitled to 100% of net assets held by 1347 LP. The general partner of 1347 LP is entitled to reimbursement of certain costs, fees, and expenses arising in connection with 1347 LP's operation, as provided by the partnership agreement, upon approval by the Company's Board of Directors.
 
FG Financial Group
 
As of March 31, 2021, the Company indirectly held approximately $96 in cash and 477,282 shares of FG Financial Group, Inc. (formerly 1347 Property Insurance Holdings, Inc.) (Nasdaq: FGF) (“FGF”), with fair value of $2,219, through an investment in 1347 LP. These shares were purchased in March and May 2018 for approximately $3,741. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company recognized an unrealized gain on the investment of approximately $205, compared with an unrealized loss of $306 for the same period last year. There have been no costs, fees, and expenses paid to the general partner or its affiliats for any periods, including the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.
 
As of March 31, 2021, the Company and the affiliates of FG, including, without limitation, Ballantyne Strong, Inc., beneficially owned in the aggregate 3,052,734 shares of FGF’s common stock, representing approximately 62% of FGF’s outstanding shares. Additionally, FG and its affiliates constitute the largest stockholder of the Company. Mr. Kyle Cerminara, a member of the Company’s Board of Directors, is Chief Executive Officer, Co-Founder and Partner of FG and serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ballantyne Strong, Inc. Mr. Cerminara also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of FGF.
 
 
7
 
 
7.        
Stockholders’ Equity
 
The changes in condensed consolidated stockholders’ equity for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows:
 
 
 
Common Stock Shares
 
 
Common Stock Amount
 
 
Additional Paid-In Capital
 
 
Accumulated
 Deficit
 
 
Treasury
Stock
 
 
Total
 
Balance at December 31, 2019
  13,929,381 
 $8,357 
 $26,095 
 $(6,043)
 $(5,133)
 $23,276 
Share-based compensation expense-stock options
   
   
  30 
   
   
  30 
Share-based compensation expense-restricted stock units
   
   
  21 
   
   
  21 
Dividends declared ($0.02 per share)
   
   
   
  (250)
   
  (250)
Net loss
   
   
   
  (1,192)
   
  (1,192)
Repurchase of common stock
   
   
   
   
  (243)
  (243)
Balance at March 31, 2020
  13,929,381 
 $8,357 
 $26,146 
 $(7,485)
 $(5,376)
 $21,642 
 
 
 
Common Stock Shares
 
 
Common Stock Amount
 
 
Additional Paid-In Capital
 
 
Accumulated
 Deficit
 
 
Treasury
Stock
 
 
Total
 
Balance at December 31, 2020
  13,962,366 
 $8,377 
 $26,346 
 $(6,797)
 $(5,402)
 $22,524 
Common stock issued under restricted stock units
  24,505 
  15 
  (15)
   
   
   
Share-based compensation expense-stock options
   
   
  32 
   
   
  32 
Share-based compensation expense-restricted stock units
   
   
  103 
   
   
  103 
Dividends declared ($0.02 per share)
   
   
   
  (251)
   
  (251)
Net loss
   
   
   
  (694)
   
  (694)
Balance at March 31, 2021
  13,986,871 
 $8,392 
 $26,466 
 $(7,742)
 $(5,402)
 $21,714 
 
 
8
 
 
8.   
Loss Per Share
 
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted loss per share:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
March 31, 2021
 
 
March 31, 2020
 
Numerator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss (for basic and diluted loss per share)
 $(694)
 $(1,192)
Denominator for basic loss per share weighted average shares
  12.517,412 
  12,555,108 
Effect of dilutive securities:
    
    
Options and restricted stock units
   
   
Denominator for diluted loss per share weighted average shares
  12,517,412 
  12,555,108 
Basic and diluted loss per share
 $(0.06)
 $(0.09)
 
Approximately 489,000 stock options and 122,533 restricted stock units for the three months ended March 31, 2021, and 448,400 stock options and 85,621 restricted stock units for the three months ended March 31, 2020, were excluded from the calculation because they were anti-dilutive.
 
 
9
 
 
9.      
Non-Cash Share-Based Employee Compensation
 
The Company has an employee and non-employee director share-based incentive compensation plan. Related to these programs, the Company recorded non-cash share-based employee compensation expense of $32 for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared with $30 for the same period last year. The Company considers its non-cash share-based employee compensation expenses as a component of cost of products and selling, general and administrative expenses. There was no non-cash share-based employee compensation expense capitalized as part of capital expenditures or inventory for the periods presented.
 
The Company uses the Black-Scholes-Merton option valuation model to calculate the fair value of stock option grants under this plan. The non-cash share-based employee compensation expense recorded in the three months ended March 31, 2021, was calculated using certain assumptions. Such assumptions are described more comprehensively in Note 10 (Share-Based Employee Compensation) of the Notes to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.
 
A summary of activity under the Company’s stock option plans during the three months ended March 31, 2021, is presented below:
 
As of January 1, 2021
 
Stock Options
 
 
Wgt. Avg. Exercise Price ($) Per Share
 
 
Wgt. Avg. Remaining Contractual Life (Years)
 
 
Wgt. Avg. Grant Date Fair Value ($) Per Share
 
 
Aggregate Intrinsic Value ($)
 
Outstanding
  489,000 
  3.96 
  7.23 
  1.51 
  20,000 
Vested
  185,800 
  4.15 
  5.65 
  1.55 
  20,000 
Nonvested
  303,200 
  3.84 
  8.20 
  1.49 
   
 
    
    
    
    
    
Period activity
    
    
    
    
    
Issued
   
   
   
   
   
Exercised
   
   
   
   
   
Forfeited
   
   
   
   
   
Expired 
   
   
   
   
   
 
    
    
    
    
    
As of March 31, 2021
    
    
    
    
    
Outstanding
  489,000 
  3.96 
  6.98 
  1.51 
  220,450 
Vested
  235,800 
  4.20 
  5.69 
  1.55 
  80,410 
Nonvested
  253,200 
  3.73 
  8.18 
  1.47 
  140,040 
 
Restricted Stock Units
 
On March 4, 2021, upon the resignation of former director Lewis Johnson, the Company, at the direction of the Board of Directors, accelerated the vesting of Mr. Johnson’s unvested restricted stock units granted September 6, 2018, September 6, 2019, and August 24, 2020, and issued 24,505 shares of common stock to Mr. Johnson.
 
On August 24, 2020, the Company granted to each non-employee director restricted stock units with a grant-date fair value of $40 per award (resulting in total aggregate grant-date fair value of $240), which will vest in five equal, annual installments beginning with the first anniversary of the grant date, subject to the director’s continued service through such date, provided that, if the director makes himself available and consents to be nominated by the Company for continued service as a director, but is not nominated for the Board for election by stockholders, other than for good reason, as determined by the Board in its discretion, then the restricted stock units shall vest in full as of the director’s last date of service as a director of the Company.
 
 
10
 
 
On April 24, 2020, upon the resignation of former director Ryan Turner, the Company, at the direction of the Board of Directors, accelerated the vesting of Mr. Turner’s unvested restricted stock units granted September 6, 2019, and September 6, 2018, and issued 10,389 and 4,050 shares of common stock, respectively.
 
On September 6, 2019, the Company granted to each non-employee director restricted stock units with a grant-date fair value of $40 per award (resulting in total aggregate grant-date fair value of $280), which will vest in five equal, annual installments beginning with the first anniversary of the grant date, subject to the director’s continued service through such date, provided that, if the director makes himself available and consents to be nominated by the Company for continued service as a director, but is not nominated for the Board for election by stockholders, other than for good reason, as determined by the Board in its discretion, then the restricted stock units shall vest in full as of the director’s last date of service as a director of the Company.
 
On June 4, 2018, the Company granted to each non-employee director restricted stock units with a grant fair value of $20 per award (resulting in total aggregate grant-date fair value of $140), which vested on June 4, 2019.
 
There were 122,533 and 147,038 restricted stock units outstanding as of March 31, 2021, and December 31, 2020, respectively.
 
The Company recorded non-cash restricted stock unit compensation expense of $103 for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared with $21 for the same period last year.
 
10.     
Commitments and Contingencies
 
From time to time, the Company may be involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of its business. On a quarterly basis, the Company assesses its liabilities and contingencies in connection with outstanding legal proceedings utilizing the latest information available. Where it is probable that the Company will incur a loss and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated, it records a liability in its consolidated financial statements. These legal accruals may be increased or decreased to reflect any relevant developments on a quarterly basis. Where a loss is not probable or the amount of the loss is not estimable, the Company does not accrue legal reserves, consistent with applicable accounting guidance. There were no pending material claims or legal matters as of March 31, 2021.
 
In December 2019, a novel strain of the coronavirus (COVID-19) surfaced in Wuhan, China, which spread globally and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. Although we believe the pandemic has not had a material adverse impact on our business through 2021, it may have the potential of doing so in the future. The extent of the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and financial performance will depend on future developments, which are uncertain and, given the continuing evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic and the global responses to curb its spread, cannot be predicted. In addition, the pandemic has significantly increased economic uncertainty and caused a worldwide economic downturn. Even after the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, we may continue to experience an adverse impact to our business as a result of its national and, to some extent, global economic impact, including any recession that may occur in the future.
 
Purchase Commitments
 
As of March 31, 2021, the Company had purchase commitments for inventory totaling approximately $9,540.
 
 
11
 
 
Significant Customers
 
Sales to United States government agencies represented approximately $2,116 (24.71%) of the Company’s net total sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared with approximately $6,576 (60.4%) for the same period last year. Accounts receivable from agencies of the United States government were $1,490 as of March 31, 2021, compared with approximately $2,832 at the same date last year.
 
11.     
Debt
 
BK Technologies, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into the $5,000 Credit Agreement and a related Line of Credit Note (the “Note” and collectively with the Credit Agreement, the “Credit Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (“JPMC”) on January 30, 2020. The Credit Agreement provides for a revolving line of credit of up to $5,000, with availability under the line of credit subject to a borrowing base calculated as a percentage of accounts receivable and inventory. Proceeds of borrowings under the Credit Agreement may be used for general corporate purposes. The line of credit is collateralized by a blanket lien on all personal property of BK Technologies, Inc., pursuant to the terms of the Continuing Security Agreement with JPMC. The Company and each subsidiary of BK Technologies, Inc., are guarantors of BK Technologies, Inc.’s obligations under the Credit Agreement, in accordance with the terms of the Continuing Guaranty. On January 26, 2021, the Company extended this revolving credit facility for one year, through January 31, 2022.
 
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to one-month LIBOR or zero if the LIBOR is less than zero) plus a margin of 1.90% (2.011% as of March 31, 2021). The line of credit, as modified, is to be repaid in monthly payments of interest only, payable in arrears, commencing on February 1, 2020, with all outstanding principal and interest to be payable in full at maturity (January 31, 2022).
 
The Credit Agreement contains certain customary restrictive covenants, including restrictions on liens, indebtedness, loans and guarantees, acquisitions and mergers, sales of assets, and stock repurchases by BK Technologies, Inc. The Credit Agreement contains one financial covenant requiring BK Technologies, Inc., to maintain a tangible net worth of at least $20,000 at any fiscal quarter end.
 
The Credit Agreement provides for customary events of default, including: (1) failure to pay principal, interest or fees under the Credit Agreement when due and payable; (2) failure to comply with other covenants and agreements contained in the Credit Agreement and the other documents executed in connection therewith; (3) the making of false or inaccurate representations and warranties; (4) defaults under other agreements with JPMC or under other debt or other obligations of BK Technologies, Inc.; (5) money judgments and material adverse changes; (6) a change in control or ceasing to operate business in the ordinary course; and (7) certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, JPMC may declare the entire unpaid balance immediately due and payable and/or exercise any and all remedial and other rights under the Credit Agreement.
 
BK Technologies, Inc. was in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement as of March 31, 2021, and the date of filing this report. As of March 31, 2021, and the date of filing this report, the Company had an outstanding balance of $800 and $470, respectively  and a net balance availability of $3,387 and $2,644 respectively under the Credit Agreement.
 
On September 25, 2019, BK Technologies, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, and U.S. Bank Equipment Finance, a division of U.S. Bank National Association, as a lender, entered into a Master Loan Agreement in the amount of $425 to finance various items of manufacturing equipment. The loan is collateralized by the equipment purchased using the proceeds. The Master Loan Agreement is payable in 60 equal monthly principal and interest payments of approximately $8 beginning on October 25, 2019, matures on September 25, 2024, and bears a fixed interest rate of 5.11%.
 
 
12
 
 
12.     
Leases
 
The Company accounts for its leasing arrangements in accordance with Topic 842, “Leases”. The Company leases manufacturing and office facilities and equipment under operating leases and determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. ROU assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent its obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term.
 
As most of its leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. The Company’s lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. The Company has lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are accounted for separately.
 
The Company leases approximately 54,000 square feet (not in thousands) of industrial space in West Melbourne, Florida, under a non-cancellable operating lease. The lease has the expiration date of September 30, 2027. Annual rental, maintenance and tax expenses for the facility are approximately $491.
 
In February 2020, the Company entered into a lease for 6,857 square feet (not in thousands) of office space at Sawgrass Technology Park, 1619 NW 136th Avenue in Sunrise, Florida, for a period of 64 months commencing July 1, 2020. Annual rental, maintenance and tax expenses for the facility will be approximately $196 for the first year, increasing by approximately 3% for each subsequent 12-month period.
 
In March 2021, the Company executed an agreement for the termination of its lease for 8,100 square feet (not in thousands) of office space in Lawrence, Kansas, effective March 31, 2021. The original term of the lease was through December 31, 2021.
 
Lease costs consisted of the following:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
March 31, 2021
 
 
March 31, 2020
 
Operating lease cost
 $166 
 $143 
Short-term lease cost
   
  2 
Variable lease cost
  32 
  32 
Total lease cost
 $198 
 $177 
 
Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
March 31, 2021
 
 
March 31, 2020
 
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Operating cash flows (fixed payments)
 $211 
 $122 
 Operating cash flows (liability reduction)
  171 
  82 
 
    
    
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations:
    
    
Operating leases
  14 
  9 
 
 
13
 

Other information related to operating leases was as follows:
 
 
 
March 31,
2021
 
Weighted average remaining lease term (in years)
  5.93 
Weighted average discount rate
  5.50%
 
Maturity of lease liabilities as of March 31, 2021, were as follows:

 
 
March 31,
2021
 
Remaining nine months of 2021
 $428 
2022
  582 
2023
  594 
2024
  607 
2025
  618 
Thereafter
  722 
Total payments
  3,551 
Less: imputed interest
  (526)
Total liability
 $3,025 
 
 
14
 
 
Item 2. 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
SPECIAL NOTE CONCERNING
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
We believe that it is important to communicate our future expectations to our security holders and to the public. This report, therefore, contains statements about future events and expectations which are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Sections 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), including the statements about our plans, objectives, expectations, and prospects. You can expect to identify these statements by forward-looking words such as “may,” “might,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “will,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “estimate,” “project,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “are encouraged” and other similar expressions. Any statement contained in this report that is not a statement of historical fact may be deemed to be a forward-looking statement. Although we believe that the plans, objectives, expectations and prospects reflected in or suggested by our forward-looking statements are reasonable, those statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, and we can give no assurance that our plans, objectives, expectations and prospects will be achieved.
 
Important factors that might cause our actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements are contained in the “Risk Factors” section of and elsewhere in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, and in our subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and include, among others, the following:
 
● 
changes or advances in technology;
 
the success of our land mobile radio product line;
 
successful introduction of new products and technologies, including our ability to successfully develop and sell our anticipated new multiband product and other related products in the planned new BKR Series product line;
 
competition in the land mobile radio industry;
 
general economic and business conditions, including federal, state and local government budget deficits and spending limitations, any impact from a prolonged shutdown of the U.S. Government, and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic;
 
the availability, terms and deployment of capital;
 
reliance on contract manufacturers and suppliers;
 
risks associated with fixed-price contracts;
 
heavy reliance on sales to agencies of the U.S. Government and our ability to comply with the requirements of contracts, laws and regulations related to such sales;
 
allocations by government agencies among multiple approved suppliers under existing agreements;
 
our ability to comply with U.S. tax laws and utilize deferred tax assets;
 
our ability to attract and retain executive officers, skilled workers and key personnel;
 
our ability to manage our growth;
 
 
15
 
 
our ability to identify potential candidates and consummate acquisition, disposition or investment transactions, and risks incumbent to being a noncontrolling interest stockholder in a corporation;
 
the impact of business conditions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, on the companies in which we hold investments;
 
● 
impact of our capital allocation strategy;
 
● 
risks related to maintaining our brand and reputation;
 
impact of government regulation;
 
rising health care costs;
 
our business with manufacturers located in other countries, including changes in the U.S. Government and foreign governments’ trade and tariff policies, as well as any further impact resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic;
 
our inventory and debt levels;
 
protection of our intellectual property rights;
 
fluctuation in our operating results and stock price;
 
acts of war or terrorism, natural disasters and other catastrophic events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic;
 
any infringement claims;
 
data security breaches, cyber-attacks and other factors impacting our technology systems;
 
availability of adequate insurance coverage;
 
maintenance of our NYSE American listing;
 
risks related to being a holding company; and
 
the effect on our stock price and ability to raise equity capital through future sales of shares of our common stock.
 
Some of these factors and risks have been, and may further be, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements made in this report, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise, after the date of this report. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.
 
Reported dollar amounts in the management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) section of this report are disclosed in millions or as whole dollar amounts.
 
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this report and the MD&A, consolidated financial statements and notes thereto appearing in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, filed with the SEC on March 3, 2021.
 
 
16
 
 
Executive Overview
 
BK Technologies Corporation is a holding company, with a wholly owned operating subsidiary, BK Technologies, Inc. We design, manufacture and market two-way land mobile radios, repeaters, base stations and related components and subsystems.
 
Two-way land mobile radios can be hand-held (portable) or installed in vehicles (mobile). Repeaters expand the range of two-way land mobile radios, enabling them to operate over a wider area. Base station components and subsystems are installed at radio transmitter sites to improve performance by enhancing the signal and reducing or eliminating signal interference and enabling the use of one antenna for both transmission and reception. We incorporate both analog and digital technologies in our products. Our digital technology is compliant with the Project 25 standard of the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials. We offer products primarily under the “BK” brand name. Generally, BK-branded products serve the government and public safety market.
 
Holding Company Reorganization
 
On March 28, 2019, we implemented a holding company reorganization. The reorganization created a new holding company, BK Technologies Corporation, which became the new parent company of BK Technologies, Inc. The holding company reorganization was intended to create a more efficient corporate structure and increase operational flexibility. We did not incur any material operational or financial impacts. The holding company reorganization was affected through a merger transaction that was a tax-free transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes for our stockholders. No stockholder vote was required to effect the merger transaction.
 
As part of the holding company reorganization, stockholders of our predecessor, BK Technologies, Inc., became stockholders of BK Technologies Corporation, on a one-for-one basis, with the same number of shares and same ownership percentage of common stock that they held immediately prior to the holding company reorganization. Following the reorganization, BK Technologies Corporation replaced BK Technologies, Inc. as the publicly traded entity, and shares of BK Technologies Corporation were listed on the NYSE American under the symbol “BKTI,” which is the same symbol as previously used by BK Technologies, Inc. In addition, the common stock of BK Technologies Corporation was assigned a new CUSIP Number: 05587G 104.
 
For the purpose of this report, references to “we” or the “Company” or our management or business at any period prior to the holding company reorganization (March 28, 2019) refer to those of BK Technologies, Inc., as the predecessor company and its subsidiaries and thereafter to those of BK Technologies Corporation and its subsidiaries, except as otherwise specified or to the extent the context otherwise indicates.
 
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic
 
In December 2019, a novel strain of the coronavirus (COVID-19) surfaced, which spread globally and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy increased significantly in the first several months of 2020. In response to COVID-19, national and local governments around the world instituted certain measures, including travel bans, prohibitions on group events and gatherings, shutdowns of certain businesses, curfews, shelter-in-place orders, and recommendations to practice social distancing. We are considered an “essential business” that is supporting first responders and our manufacturing operations have remained open throughout the pandemic. We implemented certain policies at our offices in accordance with best practices to accommodate, and at times mandate, social distancing, wearing face masks, and remote work practices. Among other things, we have invested in employee safety equipment, additional cleaning supplies and measures, adjusted production lines and workplaces as necessary and adapted new processes for interactions with our suppliers and customers to safely manage our operations. In 2021 to-date, two staff members at our primary facility in West Melbourne, Florida, tested positive for COVID-19. These employees were quarantined and worked remotely in accordance with accepted safety practices until after passing subsequent testing.
 
 
17
 
 
In planning for the possible disruption of our business, we took steps to reduce expenses throughout the Company. This included suspending all Company travel for a period of time, as well as our participation in trade shows and other business meetings, instituting strict inventory control and decreasing expenditures. We also implemented workforce reductions during the second quarter of 2020, decreasing employment and related expenses by approximately 18% as well as suspended the employer’s 401K match. For the first three months of 2021, the impact to customer orders is unknown with any certainty. Early in the pandemic some of our supply chain partners were temporarily closed, however most of these partners resumed operations. Recently, worldwide shortages of materials, particularly semiconductors and integrated circuits, have resulted in limited supplies and extended lead times for certain components used in our products. While, generally, we have been able to procure the material necessary to manufacture our products and fulfill customer orders, there have been some delays and longer delivery times within our supply chain. While the progression and duration of these shortages is not known with certainty, they may last for several quarters or years. The impact on our operations of such shortages, or additional shortages that may surface, is uncertain, but could potentially impact our future sales, manufacturing operations and financial results. Continued progression of these circumstances could result in a decline in customer orders, as our customers could shift purchases to lower-priced or other perceived value offerings or reduce their purchases and inventories due to decreased budgets, reduced access to credit or various other factors, and impair our ability to manufacture our products, which could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and cash flow. While the current impacts of COVID-19 are reflected in our results of operations, we cannot at this time separate the direct COVID-19 impacts from other factors that cause our performance to vary from quarter to quarter. The ultimate duration and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows is dependent on future developments, including the duration and severity of the pandemic, and the related length of its impact on the global economy, which are uncertain and cannot be predicted at this time. Even after the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, we may continue to experience an adverse impact to our business as a result of its national and, to some extent, global economic impact. Furthermore, the extent to which our mitigation efforts are successful, if at all, is not presently ascertainable. However, our results of operations in future periods may continue to be adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative effects on global economic conditions.
 
We may experience fluctuations in our quarterly results, in part, due to governmental customer spending patterns that are influenced by government fiscal year-end budgets and appropriations. We may also experience fluctuations in our quarterly results, in part, due to our sales to federal and state agencies that participate in wildland fire-suppression efforts, which may be greater during the summer season when forest fire activity is heightened. In some years, these factors may cause an increase in sales for the second and first quarters, compared with the first and fourth quarters of the same fiscal year. Such increases in sales may cause quarterly variances in our cash flow from operations and overall financial condition.
 
 
18
 
 
First Quarter Summary
 
Sales for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021, decreased compared with the same periods for the prior year, while cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses also decreased. Accordingly, our operating loss for the first quarter of 2021 was slightly higher, compared with the first quarter last year.
 
For the first quarter of 2021, our sales totaled approximately $8.6 million, compared with approximately $10.9 million for the same quarter last year.
 
Gross profit margins as a percentage of sales for the first quarter of 2021 were approximately 36.2%, compared with 35.8% for the first quarter last year.
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) for the first quarter of 2021 decreased 16.2% ($770,000) to approximately $4.0 million, compared with approximately $4.7 million for the same quarter last year.
 
For the first quarter of 2021, our operating loss was approximately $877,000, compared with approximately $848,000 for the first quarter last year.
 
Outside of our core public safety land mobile radio operations, for the first quarter of 2021, we recognized an unrealized gain totaling $205,000 on our investment in FGF, made through FGI 1347 Holdings, LP, a consolidated variable interest entity. This compares with an unrealized loss of $306,000 on the investment for the first quarter of 2020.
 
Our net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2021, narrowed by 41.8% ($498,000) to approximately $694,000 ($0.06 per basic and diluted share), compared with a loss of approximately $1.2 million ($0.09 per basic and diluted share) for the same quarter last year.
 
As of March 31, 2021, working capital totaled approximately $13.2 million, of which approximately $10.9 million was comprised of cash, cash equivalents and trade receivables. As of December 31, 2020, working capital totaled approximately $15.1 million, of which approximately $13.3 million was comprised of cash, cash equivalents and trade receivables.
 
 
19
 
 
Results of Operations
 
As an aid to understanding our operating results for the periods covered by this report, the following table shows selected items from our condensed consolidated statements of operations expressed as a percentage of sales:
 
 
 
Percentage of Sales
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
March 31, 2021
 
 
March 31, 2020
 
Sales
  100.0%
  100.0%
Cost of products
  (63.8)
  (64.2)
Gross margin
  36.2 
  35.8 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
  (46.4)
  (43.6)
Other income (expense)
  2.1 
  (3.2)
Loss before income taxes
  (8.1)
  (11.0)
Income tax benefit
  0.0 
  0.0 
Net loss
  (8.1)%
  (11.0)%
 
Net Sales
 
For the first quarter ended March 31, 2021, net sales totaled approximately $8.6 million, compared with approximately $10.9 million for the same quarter last year.
 
The decrease in sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, was attributed primarily to a delay in anticipated orders from existing federal customers. We believe these remain viable prospective sales opportunities and are continuing to pursue them for future quarters. Although the precise impact to sales cannot be quantified, procurement activities of some customers were likely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic during the first quarter ended March 31, 2021.
 
In the second half of 2020, we launched the first model in our new BKR Series of APCO Project 25 land mobile radio products and solutions, the BKR 5000. The BKR Series is envisioned as a comprehensive line of new products with additional new models planned for later this year, including products with multi-band capability. The timing of developing additional BKR Series products and bringing them to market could be impacted by various factors, including potential impacts related to the COVID-19 pandemic. BKR Series products, we believe, should increase our addressable market by expanding the number of federal and other public safety customers that may purchase our products. However, the timing and size of orders from agencies at all levels can be unpredictable and subject to budgets, priorities, and other factors. Accordingly, we cannot assure that sales will occur under particular contracts, or that our sales prospects will otherwise be realized.
 
In 2020, we reorganized our sales resources to focus more effectively on target markets and customers where we can realize sales success. The current funnel of sales prospects includes potential new customers in federal, state, and local public safety agencies.  We believe the reorganization and our sales funnel better positions us to capture new sales opportunities moving forward.
 
While the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in coming months and quarters remain uncertain, such effects have the potential to adversely impact our customers and our supply chain. Such negative effects on our customers and suppliers could adversely affect our future sales, operations, and financial results.
 
 
20
 
 
Cost of Products and Gross Profit Margin
 
Gross profit margins as a percentage of sales for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021, were approximately 36.2%, compared with 35.8% for the same quarter last year.
 
Our cost of products and gross profit margins are primarily derived from material, labor and overhead costs, product mix, manufacturing volumes and pricing. While gross profit margins for the first quarter of 2021 were materially consistent with the same quarter last year, they were adversely impacted by approximately 3.3% for one-time inventory reserves related to our legacy product line, the KNG series. Absent this impact, gross profit margins for the first quarter of 2021 would have been approximately 39.5%. In 2020, we reduced manufacturing operations employment and other manufacturing-related expenses. These reductions have improved our utilization and absorption of manufacturing and support expenses.
 
We utilize a combination of internal manufacturing capabilities and contract manufacturing relationships for production efficiencies and to manage material and labor costs. While we anticipate continuing to do so in the future, we have increased, and are continuing to increase, our utilization of U.S.-based resources, which provides greater security and control over our production. We believe that our current manufacturing capabilities and contract relationships or comparable alternatives will continue to be available to us. Although in the future we may encounter new product cost and competitive pricing pressures, the extent of their impact on gross margins, if any, is uncertain.
 
During recent quarters, worldwide shortages of semiconductors and integrated circuits have resulted in limited supplies and extended lead times for certain components used in our products. While, generally, we have been able to procure the material necessary to manufacture our products and fulfill customer orders, there have been some delays and extended lead times within our supply chain. While the progression and duration of these shortages is not known with certainty, they may last for several quarters or years. The impact on our operations of such shortages, or additional shortages that may surface, is uncertain, but could potentially impact our future sales, manufacturing operations and financial results.
 
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
 
SG&A expenses consist of marketing, sales, commissions, engineering, product development, management information systems, accounting, headquarters, and non-cash share-based employee compensation expenses.
 
SG&A expenses for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021, decreased by $770,000, or 16.2%, to approximately $4.0 million (46.4% of sales), compared with approximately $4.7 million (43.6% of sales) for the same quarter last year. Consistent with employment and expense reductions in our manufacturing operations, during second quarter of 2020, we reduced SG&A employment, as well as other expenses in sales, go-to-market, engineering, and headquarters. These reductions impacted SG&A expenses for the first quarter of 2021 but were made subsequent to last year’s first quarter.
 
Engineering and product development expenses for the first quarter of 2021 decreased $219,000, or 10.7%, to approximately $1.8 million (21.3% of sales), compared with approximately $2.0 million (18.8% of sales) for the same quarter of last year. Expenses related to the design and development of the BKR series, a new line of portable and mobile radios, decreased as certain project phases were completed and most ongoing development activities migrated to our internal engineering team and away from external resources. Development of the BKR Series, including our planned multiband product, is the primary focus of our engineering team. The precise date for developing and introducing new products is uncertain and can be impacted by, among other things, the potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in coming months.
 
 
21
 
 
Marketing and selling expenses for the first quarter of 2021 declined by approximately $562,000, or 37.4%, to approximately $939,000 (11.0% of sales), compared with approximately $1.5 million (13.8% of sales) for the first quarter last year. The decreases are attributed to reductions in sales and go-to-market employment, as well as other sales, marketing, and go-to-market related expenses.
 
Other general and administrative expenses for the first quarter 2021 totaled approximately $1.2 million (14.1% of sales) and were materially consistent compared with approximately $1.2 million (11.0% of sales) for the same quarter last year.
 
Operating Loss
 
Our operating loss for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021, was approximately $877,000 (10.2%), compared with a loss of $848,000 (7.8% of sales) for last year’s first quarter. The operating loss for the first quarter of 2021 reflects a decrease in sales and gross profit margins, which were partially offset by SG&A expense reductions.
 
Other (Expense) Income
 
We recorded net interest expense of approximately $4,000 for the first quarter of 2021, compared with net interest income of approximately $9,000 for the first quarter last year, primarily as a result of financing the purchase of manufacturing equipment, combined with lower interest rates and cash balances.
 
For the first quarter of 2021, we recognized an unrealized gain of $205,000 on our investment in FGF, compared with an unrealized loss of $306,000 for the first quarter last year.
 
Income Taxes
 
We recorded no income tax benefit or expense for the first quarter of 2021 or 2020.
 
Our income tax provision is based on management’s estimate of the effective tax rate for the full year. The tax provision (benefit) in any period will be affected by, among other things, permanent, as well as temporary, differences in the deductibility of certain items, in addition to changes in tax legislation. As a result, we may experience significant fluctuations in the effective book tax rate (that is, tax expense divided by pre-tax book income) from period to period.
 
As of March 31, 2021, our net deferred tax assets totaled approximately $4.3 million, and were primarily derived from research and development tax credits, operating loss carryforwards and deferred revenue.
 
In order to fully utilize the net deferred tax assets, we will need to generate sufficient taxable income in future years. We analyze all positive and negative evidence to determine if, based on the weight of available evidence, we are more likely than not to realize the benefit of the net deferred tax assets. The recognition of the net deferred tax assets and related tax benefits is based upon our conclusions regarding, among other considerations, estimates of future earnings based on information currently available and current and anticipated customers, contracts, and product introductions, as well as historical operating results and certain tax planning strategies.
 
Based on our analysis of all available evidence, both positive and negative, we have concluded that we do not have the ability to generate sufficient taxable income in the necessary period to utilize the entire benefit for the deferred tax asset. Accordingly, we established a valuation allowance of $98,000. We cannot presently estimate what, if any, changes to the valuation of our deferred tax assets may be deemed appropriate in the future. If we incur future losses, it may be necessary to record additional valuation allowance related to the deferred tax assets recognized as of March 31, 2021.
 
 
22
 
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
For the first quarter ended March 31, 2021, net cash provided by operating activities totaled approximately $39,000, compared with approximately $915,000 for last year’s first quarter. Cash provided by operating activities for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021, was primarily related to collections of accounts receivable, increased accounts payable, and depreciation and amortization, which were partially offset by our net loss, increased inventories and a decrease in accrued compensation and related taxes.
 
For the first quarter of 2021, we had a net loss of approximately $0.7 million, compared with approximately $1.2 million for the same period last year. Accounts receivable decreased approximately $1.4 million during the first quarter of 2021 due primarily to collections. For the first quarter of 2020, accounts receivable increased approximately $626,000. Accounts payable for the first quarter of 2021 increased approximately $299,000, compared with a decrease of approximately $474,000 for the first quarter last year, primarily due to purchases from suppliers. Depreciation and amortization totaled approximately $298,000 for the first quarter of 2021, compared with approximately $320,000 for the first quarter last year. Depreciation and amortization are primarily related to manufacturing and engineering equipment. Gross inventories increased during the first quarter of 2021 by approximately $1.4 million, compared with a decrease of approximately $2.5 million for the first quarter last year. The increase for the first quarter of 2021 was primarily attributable to lower product sales combined with extended supplier lead-times. Accrued compensation and related taxes decreased by approximately $315,000 for the first quarter of 2021, compared with a decrease of $226,000 for the first quarter last year. The decreases were primarily related to the payment of employee incentives. Unrealized gains on securities for the first quarter of 2021 totaled approximately $205,000, compared with losses of approximately $306,000 for last year’s first quarter. For additional information pertaining to our investment in securities, refer to Notes 1 (Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements) and 6 (Investment in Securities) to the condensed consolidated financial statements included in this report.
 
Cash used in investing activities for the first quarter of 2021 totaled approximately $1.0 million, primarily for manufacturing equipment. For the first quarter of 2020, cash used in investing activities totaled approximately $131,000, primarily for engineering and manufacturing related equipment.
 
For the first quarter of 2021, cash of approximately $529,000 was provided by financing activities. During the first quarter we received proceeds of approximately $800,000 related to financing the purchase of manufacturing equipment. We used cash of approximately $250,000 to pay quarterly dividends in both the first quarter of 2021 and 2020. During the first quarter of 2020, we also used approximately $243,000 for stock repurchases. We used approximately $21,000 and $19,000, for the repayment of debt during the first quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively.
 
On January 26, 2021, our revolving credit facility, which originated on January 30, 2020, was extended for one year, through January 31, 2022.
 
BK Technologies, Inc., our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into the $5 million Credit Agreement with JPMC. The Credit Agreement provides for a revolving line of credit of up to $5 million, with availability under the line of credit subject to a borrowing base calculated as a percentage of accounts receivable and inventory. Proceeds of borrowings under the Credit Agreement may be used for general corporate purposes. The line of credit is collateralized by a blanket lien on all personal property of BK Technologies, Inc. pursuant to the terms of the Continuing Security Agreement with JPMC. BK Technologies Corporation and each subsidiary of BK Technologies, Inc., are guarantors of the obligations under the Credit Agreement, in accordance with the terms of the Continuing Guaranty.
 
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to one-month LIBOR (or zero if the LIBOR is less than zero) plus a margin of 1.90%. The line of credit is to be repaid in monthly payments of interest only, payable in arrears, with all outstanding principal and interest to be payable in full at maturity.
 
 
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The Credit Agreement contains certain customary restrictive covenants, including restrictions on liens, indebtedness, loans and guarantees, acquisitions and mergers, sales of assets, and stock repurchases by BK Technologies, Inc. The Credit Agreement contains one financial covenant requiring BK Technologies, Inc., to maintain a tangible net worth of at least $20 million at any fiscal quarter end.
 
The Credit Agreement provides for customary events of default, including: (1) failure to pay principal, interest or fees under the Credit Agreement when due and payable; (2) failure to comply with other covenants and agreements contained in the Credit Agreement and the other documents executed in connection therewith; (3) the making of false or inaccurate representations and warranties; (4) defaults under other agreements with JPMC or under other debt or other obligations of BK Technologies, Inc.; (5) money judgments and material adverse changes; (6) a change in control or ceasing to operate business in the ordinary course; and (7) certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, JPMC may declare the entire unpaid balance immediately due and payable and/or exercise any and all remedial and other rights under the Credit Agreement.
 
BK Technologies, Inc. was in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement as of March 31, 2021, and the date of filing this report. As of March 31, 2021, and the date of filing this report, approximately $800,000 in borrowings were outstanding under the Credit Agreement.
 
Our cash and cash equivalents balance at March 31, 2021, was approximately $6.4 million.  We believe these funds, combined with our cost-saving initiatives, anticipated cash generated from operations and borrowing availability under our Credit Agreement, are sufficient to meet our working capital requirements for the foreseeable future. We may, depending on a variety of factors, including market conditions for capital raises, the trading price of our common stock and opportunities for uses of any proceeds, engage in public or private offerings of equity or debt securities to increase our capital resources. However, financial and economic conditions, including those resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, could limit our access to credit and impair our ability to raise capital, if needed, on acceptable terms or at all. We also face other risks that could impact our business, liquidity, and financial condition. For a description of these risks, see “Item 1A. Risk Factors” set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, and “Item 1A. Risk Factors” below in this report.
 
Critical Accounting Policies
 
In response to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s financial reporting release, FR-60, Cautionary Advice Regarding Disclosure About Critical Accounting Policies, we have selected for disclosure our revenue recognition process and our accounting processes involving significant judgments, estimates and assumptions. These processes affect our reported revenues and current assets and are, therefore, critical in assessing our financial and operating status. We regularly evaluate these processes in preparing our financial statements.  The processes for revenue recognition, allowance for collection of trade receivables, allowance for excess or obsolete inventory, and income taxes involve certain assumptions and estimates that we believe to be reasonable under present facts and circumstances. These estimates and assumptions, if incorrect, could adversely impact our operations and financial position. 
 
There were no changes to our critical accounting policies during the quarter ended March 31, 2021, as described in Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.
 
Subsequent Event
 
On April 6, 2021, BK Technologies, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of BK Technologies Corporation, and JPMC, as a lender, entered into a Master Loan Agreement in the amount of $743,000 to finance various items of manufacturing equipment. The loan is collateralized by the equipment purchased using the proceeds. The Master Loan Agreement is payable in 48 equal monthly principal and interest payments of approximately $16,000 beginning on May 8, 2021, matures on April 8, 2025, and bears a fixed interest rate of 3.0%. 
 
 
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Item 3.     
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
 
As a Smaller Reporting Company, the Company is not required to include the disclosure under this Item.
 
Item 4.     
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(c) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our President (who serves as our principal executive officer) and Chief Financial Officer (who serves as our principal financial and accounting officer), as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our President (principal executive officer) and Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer), of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act), as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report.  Based upon that evaluation, our President and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including each of such officers as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
During the three months ended March 31, 2021, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(d) that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1A.
RISK FACTORS
 
Item 1A “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, includes a detailed discussion of the Company’s risk factors as set forth below. However, many of the risk factors disclosed in Item 1A of our Annual Report may be further heightened or exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing governmental responses have negatively impacted, and could further materially adversely affect, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flow.
 
In December 2019, a novel strain of the coronavirus (COVID-19) surfaced in Wuhan, China, which spread globally and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. Although we believe the pandemic has not had a material adverse impact on our business in 2020, it may have the potential of doing so in the future. The extent of the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and financial performance will depend on future developments, which are uncertain and, given the continuing evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic and the global responses to curb its spread, cannot be predicted. In addition, the pandemic has significantly increased economic uncertainty and caused a worldwide economic downturn. Even after the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, we may continue to experience an adverse impact to our business as a result of its national and, to some extent, global economic impact, including any recession that may occur in the future.
 
In response to COVID-19, national and local governments around the world instituted certain measures, including travel bans, prohibitions on group events and gatherings, shutdowns of certain businesses, curfews, shelter-in-place orders, and recommendations to practice social distancing. Although many governmental measures have had specific expiration dates, some of those measures have already been extended more than once or re-implemented as cases of COVID-19 increased in certain areas; as a result, there is considerable uncertainty regarding the duration of such measures and potential future measures. Measures providing for business shutdowns generally exclude certain essential services, and those essential services commonly include critical infrastructure and the businesses that support that critical infrastructure, which includes our business. While our manufacturing operations have remained open, these measures have impacted and may further impact our workforce and operations, as well as those of our customers and suppliers.
 
We have modified our business practices and implemented certain policies at our offices in accordance with best practices to accommodate, and at times mandate, social distancing, and remote work practices, including restricting employee travel, modifying employee work locations, implementing social distancing and enhanced sanitary measures in our facilities, and cancelling attendance at events and conferences. In addition, we have invested in employee safety equipment, additional cleaning supplies and measures, re-designed production lines and workplaces as necessary and adapted new processes for interactions with our suppliers and customers to safely manage our operations. Many of our suppliers and service providers have made similar modifications. If necessary, we may take further actions in the best interests of our employees, customers, partners, and suppliers. In light of the economic downturn generated by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have taken steps to reduce expenses throughout the Company. These reductions have, at various junctures, included limiting travel, discontinuing participation in trade shows and other business meetings, instituting strict inventory control and decreasing expenditures. We restructured our operations to, among other things, reduce our workforce by approximately 18% during the second quarter of 2020. We incurred costs as a result of the workforce reduction, including approximately $221,000 in severance costs, which were recognized in the second quarter of 2020. There is no certainty that such measures will be sufficient to mitigate the risks posed by COVID-19, in which case our employees may become sick, our ability to perform critical functions could be harmed, and our business and operations could be negatively impacted. We have had two employees at our primary West Melbourne, Florida facility test positive for COVID-19 to-date. The employees were quarantined in accordance with accepted safety practices and returned to work only after clearing accepted health protocols. There was no disruption of our operations as a result of these occurrences. The resumption of normal business operations after such interruptions may be delayed or constrained by lingering effects of COVID-19 on our suppliers, third-party service providers, and/or customers.
 
 
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Early in the pandemic some of our supply chain partners were temporarily closed, however most of these partners resumed operations. Recently, worldwide shortages of materials, particularly semiconductors and integrated circuits, have resulted in limited supplies and extended lead times for certain components used in our products. While, generally, we have been able to procure the material necessary to manufacture our products and fulfill customer orders, there have been some delays, longer delivery times and increased costs within our supply chain. While the progression and duration of these shortages is not known with certainty, they may last for several quarters or years. The impact on our operations of such shortages, or additional shortages that may surface, is uncertain, but could potentially disrupt our ability to manufacture and ship products, adversely impacting our financial and operating results.  
 
Further, our current and potential customers’ businesses could be disrupted or they could seek to limit spending, including shifting purchases to lower-priced or other perceived value offerings or reducing their purchases and inventories due to decreased budgets, reduced access to credit or various other factors, any of which could negatively impact the willingness or ability of such customers to place new, or any, orders with us and ultimately adversely affect our revenues, as well as negatively impact the payment of accounts receivable and collections and potentially lead to write-downs or write-offs.
 
The ultimate duration and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows is dependent on future developments, including the duration of the pandemic and the related length of its impact on the global economy, which remain uncertain and cannot be predicted at this time. Furthermore, the extent to which our mitigation efforts are successful, if at all, is not presently ascertainable.
 
 
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Item 2.   
UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
Dividend Restrictions
 
On January 26, 2021, BK Technologies, Inc., our wholly owned operating subsidiary, extended its Credit Agreement with JPMC. The Credit Agreement contains limitations and covenants that may limit BK Technologies, Inc.’s ability to take certain actions, including pay dividends to the Company.
 
Item 6.
EXHIBITS
 
Exhibits required to be filed by Item 601 of Regulation S-K are listed in the Exhibit Index below.
 
Exhibit Index
 
Exhibit
Number
 
Description
 
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished pursuant to Item 601(b)(32) of Regulation S-K)
 
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished pursuant to Item 601(b)(32) of Regulation S-K)
Exhibit 101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document
Exhibit 101.SCH
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
Exhibit 101.CAL
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
Exhibit 101.LAB
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
Exhibit 101.PRE
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
Exhibit 101.DEF
 
XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
 
 
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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
 
 
BK TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
 
(The “Registrant”)
 
 
Date: May 13, 2021
By:/s/ Timothy A. Vitou                                                                  
 
Timothy A. Vitou
President
(Principal executive officer and duly
authorized officer)
 
 
Date: May 13, 2021
By:/s/ William P. Kelly                                                                 
 
William P. Kelly
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal financial and accounting
officer and duly authorized officer)
 
 
 
 
 
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