UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form
(Mark One)
| | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended
| | 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
NEXTPLAT CORP
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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| incorporation or organization) | Identification No.) | |
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| (Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) |
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐
Indicate by check 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.
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).
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
| Large accelerated filer ☐ | 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 has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report.
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements.
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to § 240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes
The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of the last business day of the registrants most recently completed second fiscal quarter (June 30, 2023), was $
The number of outstanding shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, as of April 10, 2024, was
Documents Incorporated by Reference
Portions of the Registrant’s definitive proxy statement relating to its 2024 annual meeting of shareholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K where indicated. The Registrant’s definitive proxy statement will be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year to which this report relates.
NEXTPLAT CORP
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2023
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Portions of this Annual Report on Form 10-K (including information incorporated by reference) include “forward-looking statements” based on our current beliefs, expectations, and projections regarding our business strategies, market potential, future financial performance, industry, and other matters. This includes, in particular, “Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as other portions of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “could,” “would,” and similar expressions, among others, generally identify “forward-looking statements,” which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The matters discussed in these forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected, anticipated, or implied in the forward-looking statements. The most significant of these risks, uncertainties, and other factors are described in “Item 1A — Risk Factors” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Except to the limited extent required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
NextPlat Corp (“NextPlat” or “the Company” or “we” or “our”) is a global e-commerce and healthcare company. Our e-commerce venues form an effective global network serving thousands of consumers, enterprises, and governments. Our healthcare business is focused on improving the lives of patients with complex chronic diseases through a patient and provider engagement and their partnerships with payors, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and distributors, offering a broad range of solutions to address the dispensing, delivery, dosing, and reimbursement of clinically intensive, high-cost drugs
Segments
We operate in two segments: our e-Commerce Business and our Healthcare Business.
Our e-Commerce Business
Leveraging the e-commerce experience of our management team and our existing e-commerce platforms, the Company has embarked upon the rollout of a state-of-the-art e-commerce platform to collaborate with businesses to optimize their ability to sell their goods online, domestically, and internationally, and enabling customers and partners to optimize their e-commerce presence and revenue, which we expect will become the focus of the Company’s business in the future. Historically, the business of NextPlat has been the provision of a comprehensive array of Satellite Industry communication services, and related equipment sales. As detailed in Online Storefronts and E-Commerce Platforms below, the Company operates two main e-commerce websites as well as 25 third-party e-commerce storefronts on platforms such as Alibaba, Amazon, OnBuy, and Walmart. These e-commerce venues form an effective global network serving thousands of consumers, enterprises, and governments. We are actively pursuing distribution, marketing and license arrangements and joint ventures with companies that could distribute their products through our e-commerce platform. We may also seek to joint venture with or purchase part or all of businesses that manufacture or distribute products, particularly those that we believe we could market through our e-commerce platform, as well as business that could enhance our e-commerce platform.
Communications Products and Services
Through our legacy Global Telesat Communications Ltd and Orbital Satcom Corp business units, we provide Mobile Satellite Services (“MSS”) solutions to fulfill the growing global demand for satellite-enabled voice, data, personnel and asset tracking, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity services. We provide these solutions for businesses, governments, military, humanitarian organizations, and individual users, enabling them to communicate, connect to the internet, track and monitor remote assets and lone workers, or request SOS assistance via satellite from almost anywhere in the world, even in the most remote and hostile of environments. As we proceed to grow and enhance our e-commerce business and product offerings, we will consider whether we should retain our Global Telesat Communications Ltd and Orbital Satcom Corp business units, or whether we should sell or spin them off.
We provide voice, data communications, IoT and M2M services via Geostationary and Low Earth Orbit (“LEO”) satellite constellations and offer reliable connectivity in areas where terrestrial wireless or wireline networks do not exist or are limited, including remote land areas, open ocean, airways, the polar regions and regions where terrestrial networks are not operational, for example due to political conflicts and natural or man-made disasters.
We have expertise and long-term experience in providing tracking and monitoring services via satellite, specifically through the Globalstar Low Earth Orbit satellite network. We own unique network infrastructure devices, known as appliqués, which are in various Globalstar ground stations around the world and provide the signal receipt and processing technology that enables and powers the Globalstar simplex data service. Our ownership of these appliqués provides us with competitive access to the global simplex data service which addresses the market demand for a small and cost-effective solution for sending data, such as geographic coordinates, from assets or individuals in remote locations to a central monitoring station and is used in numerous applications such as tracking vehicles, asset shipments, livestock, and monitoring unattended remote assets. In addition, we also provide tracking and monitoring solutions using Automatic Identification System (AIS), 2G-5G, Push-to-Talk and two-way radio technology.
We generate revenue from both the provision of services and the sale of equipment. Higher margin recurring service revenue from the sale of monthly, annual, and prepaid airtime or messaging plans has historically represented an increasing proportion of our revenue, and we expect that trend to continue as we introduce new products requiring associated airtime or messaging plans.
We provide our products and services directly to end users and reseller networks located both in the United States and internationally through our subsidiaries, U.S. based Orbital Satcom Corp (“Orbital Satcom”) and U.K. based Global Telesat Communications Limited (“GTC”). We have a physical presence in the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as an ecommerce storefront presence in 18 countries across 5 continents. We have a diverse geographical customer base having provided solutions to more than 50,000 customers located in more than 165 countries across most every continent in the world.
MSS Products
Our MSS products rely on satellite networks for voice, data and tracking connectivity and thus are not reliant on cell towers or other local infrastructure. As a result, our MSS solutions are suitable for recreational travelers and adventurers, government and military users, and corporations and individuals wishing to communicate or connect to the internet from remote locations, or in the event of an emergency such as a power outage, following a hurricane or other natural disaster during which regular cell phone, telephone and internet service may not be available.
Our satellite communications products enable users to make voice calls, send and receive text messages and emails, and transmit GPS location coordinates from virtually anywhere on the planet, no matter how remote the location and regardless of the availability of local communication infrastructure. Our range of satellite data products allows users around the world to connect to the internet, stream live video, and communicate via voice and data applications.
We are a provider of GPS enabled emergency locator distress beacons that can save lives, on land and at sea. Our distress beacons enable essential communication between our customers and search and rescue organizations during emergency situations and pinpoint locational information to Search and Rescue services, essential during an emergency.
We provide a wide range of satellite tracking devices used to monitor the location, movements, and history of almost anything that moves. We specialize in offering satellite tracking services through the Globalstar satellite network and have supplied tens of thousands of tracking devices which are used around the world to locate lone workers, track shipping containers, livestock, vehicles, and vessels along with many other types of assets.
The first product launched by the Company, SolarTrack, is a compact, lightweight, IoT tracking device powered by the sun and operating on one of the most modern satellite networks in the world. It is designed for tracking and monitoring anything that moves, or any remote asset used outdoors, almost anywhere in the world and we anticipate strong demand from customers looking for a low cost, low maintenance tracking device to monitor remote assets.
Mapping and Tracking Portal
Our advanced subscription-based mapping and tracking portal, GTCTrack, is available for use by registered customers who pay a monthly fee to access it. This mapping portal provides a universal and hardware-agnostic, cloud-based data visualization and management platform that allows managers to track, command, and control assets in near-real-time. Asset location reports including position, speed, altitude, heading and past location and movement history reports for a wide range of tracking devices and other products sold by us are available through GTCTrack.
Online Storefronts and E-Commerce Platforms
We operate two e-commerce websites offering a range of MSS products and solutions through our subsidiaries, Orbital Satcom, which targets customers in North and South America, and GTC which targets customers in the UK, EU, Middle East, Asia and the rest of the world. These websites produce sales and attract enquiries from customers and potential customers from all around the world. Over the long term, we plan to develop additional country-specific websites to target customers in South America, Asia and Europe where we anticipate there will be substantial further demand for our products.
In addition to our two main e-commerce websites, we make portable satellite voice, data and tracking solutions easier to find and buy online through our various third-party e-commerce storefronts such as Alibaba, Amazon, OnBuy and Walmart. We currently operate 25 storefronts across various countries on 5 continents. We have invested in personnel to translate our listings correctly in the different countries we are represented in and intend to regularly improve and increase our listings on all e-commerce sites. We currently have more than 10,000 product listings on all third-party sites and invest significantly in inventory to hold at Amazon’s various fulfillment centers around the world to ensure that orders are shipped to customers as quickly as possible. The products include handheld satellite phones, personal and asset tracking devices, portable high-speed broadband terminals, and satellite Wi-Fi hotspots. Our Amazon online marketplaces represented approximately 51.6% and 54.3% of total sales for the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022, respectively and we anticipate that these marketplaces will continue to represent a significant portion of our sales for the foreseeable future. Our e-commerce storefronts enable us to attract a significantly diversified level of sales from all over the world, ensuring we are not overly reliant on any single market or sector for our sales revenue. Furthermore, many products we sell require subscription-based services which allow us to increase our recurring revenue airtime sales.
With consumer behavior drastically changing because of COVID-19, e-commerce traffic witnessed double-digit gains in 2021 and 2020, respectively, as stores closed, and shoppers used digital options. This significant change in consumer shopping habits resulted in a substantial increase of U.S., EU and U.K. consumers electing to shop online. Starting in 2021, senior management of the Company invested in a comprehensive systems upgrade project with the goal of building a state-of-the-art e-commerce platform. This implementation is substantially complete, and the Company is collaborating with businesses to optimize their ability to sell their goods online, domestically, and internationally, enabling customers and partners to optimize their e-commerce presence and revenue.
Industry and Market of our e-Commerce Operations Business
We compete in the mobile satellite products and services sector of the global communications industry. The products and airtime that we sell are intended to meet users’ needs for connectivity in all locations where existing terrestrial wireline and wireless communications networks do not exist, do not provide sufficient coverage, or are impaired. Government organizations, including military and intelligence agencies and disaster response agencies, non-governmental organizations and industrial operations and support teams depend on mobile voice and data satellite communications products and services on a regular basis. Businesses with global operations require reliable communications services when operating in remote locations around the world. Mobile satellite services users span many sectors, including emergency services, maritime, aviation, government, utilities, oil and gas, mining, recreation, forestry, heavy equipment, construction, and transportation, among others. We believe many of our customers view satellite communications products and services as critical to their daily operations.
There is we believe a fast growing, multi-billion-dollar global market for a small and cost-effective solution for receiving and processing mobile voice and data communications from remote locations used in applications such as tracking vehicles or asset shipments, monitoring unattended remote assets or mobile security. Over the past two decades, the global mobile satellite services market has experienced significant growth. Increasingly, better-tailored, improved-technology products and services are creating new channels of demand for mobile satellite services. Growth in demand for mobile satellite voice services is driven by the declining cost of these services, the diminishing size and lower costs of the devices, as well as heightened demand by governments, businesses and individuals for ubiquitous global voice and data coverage. We believe our solutions are ideally suited for industries such as maritime, aviation, government/military, emergency/humanitarian services, mining, forestry, oil and gas, heavy equipment, transportation and utilities, as well as recreational users. We do not tailor our products and services to different types of customers as in our experience military, non-profit, government and recreational users tend to purchase the same types of products and services.
Competition to our e-Commerce Operations Business
The global satellite communications industry is highly competitive. In certain regions, such as North America, we currently face substantial competition from other service providers that offer a range of mobile and fixed communications options. In other regions, such as the UK and EU, we have a strong presence and are one of the leading providers of satellite communicators, emergency locator beacons and satellite tracking devices. We compete primarily on the basis of coverage, quality, portability, pricing and in the case of our e-commerce storefronts, availability of services and products.
The competitors for our satellite telecommunications services and products are other resellers of leading satellite networks such as Iridium, Inmarsat, Thuraya and Globalstar, some of which are also our suppliers. We expect the competition for our satellite telecommunications services and our satellite tracking and monitoring services to increase significantly as market demand accelerates.
We believe that we are well positioned to compete for the satellite telecommunications services business largely on a cost basis and our global e-commerce presence, which makes products more accessible to buy as compared to more traditional methods of purchasing e.g., bricks and mortar storefronts.
Our competitive strengths
We believe that the following strengths contribute to our success:
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Our global presence enables us to compete in various markets around the world, with our multi-lingual personnel allowing us to respond to global customer inquiries with 24/7/365 customer support. |
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Our significant expertise in global e-commerce sales allows us to maintain a competitive advantage over traditional methods of purchase through “brick and mortar” stores. |
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Our significant levels of inventory stored in fulfillment centers around the world enable us to quickly secure customer orders against competitors who may not hold available inventory. |
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Economies of scale of a leading provider of MSS product allows us to offer competitive prices for our products. |
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Long-term contracts and experience with Globalstar allow us to compete competitively on satellite tracking opportunities. |
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A diverse customer base with no single customer representing more than 3.0% of our annual gross sales revenue, and no single country representing more than 33% of our gross annual sales revenue as of December 31, 2023. This diversification reasonably permits the Company not to rely on any single customer, or group of customers, on any single product line, or any specific geographic area. Our Amazon sales represent the majority of our sales effort in the last 24 months. |
Our business strategy
We intend to achieve our mission and further grow our business by pursuing the following strategies:
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Increased product offerings - we are constantly increasing our product lines and offerings and will continue to do so in the future. |
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Marketplace expansion – We intend to open new global e-commerce storefronts around the world to develop sales in new markets. |
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Government sourced revenue - We intend to target US government/GSA sales which have not historically represented a significant part of our sales revenue. We will also recruit experienced government sales professionals to assist with this plan. We plan to become an approved seller on the US Government’s GSA Schedule, which gives federal, and in some cases state and local buyers, access to a great number of commercial products and services at negotiated ceiling prices. Schedule purchases represent approximately 21% of overall federal procurement spending. |
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Product innovation - We will continue to launch our own innovative branded products, such as our SolarTrack solar powered satellite tracking device, to differentiate us and gain a competitive edge over other MSS suppliers. |
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Future acquisitions - We will seek suitable acquisition opportunities to further increase our scale, expand sales and access new markets and sectors. |
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E-Commerce Platforms - Expanding beyond our current global network of online storefronts serving thousands of consumers, enterprises, and governments. |
Our Healthcare Operations Business
Our healthcare operations, which are run through our subsidiary, Progressive Care Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, offers personalized healthcare services and technology that provides prescription pharmaceuticals and risk and data management services to healthcare organizations and providers. Pharmco provides prescription pharmaceuticals, compounded medications, tele-pharmacy services, anti-retroviral medications, medication therapy management, the supply of prescription medications to long-term care facilities, contracted pharmacy services for 340B covered entities under the 340B Drug Discount Pricing Program, and health practice risk management. Through Pharmco, LLC doing business as Pharmcorx (“Pharmco 901”) and Pharmcorx LTC, Touchpoint RX, LLC doing business as PharmcoRx 1002, LLC (“Pharmco 1002”), Family Physicians RX, Inc. doing business as PharmcoRx 1103 and PharmcoRx 1204 (“FPRX” historically or “Pharmco 1103” and “Pharmco 1204”) (pharmacy subsidiaries collectively referred to as “Pharmco”) we also offer certain disease testing and vaccinations.
We offer services in a variety of languages, including English, Spanish, French, Creole, Portuguese, Ukrainian and Russian.
Our services are designed to provide satisfaction across all medication stakeholders and enhance loyalty and key performance metrics. We offer value-added services at no additional charge including prior authorization assistance, same-day home-medication delivery, on site provider consultation services, primary care reporting and analytics, and customized packaging solutions. The pharmacies accept most major insurance plans and provide access to co-pay assistance programs to income qualified patients, discount and manufacturer coupons, and competitive cash payment options.
Products and Services
We enhance patient adherence to complex drug regimens, collect and report data, and ensure effective dispensing of medications to support the needs of patients, providers, and payors. Our patient and provider support services ensure appropriate drug initiation, facilitate patient compliance and adherence, and capture important information regarding safety and effectiveness of the medications that we dispense.
Pharmco is rated by pharmacy benefit managers (“PBMs”) based on its ability to adequately supply chronic care medications to patients during a measurement period. This score is then compared to the scores of other pharmacies in the network at which point a relative rating is issued. For the year ended December 31, 2023, per EQuIPP®, a performance information management tool that provides standardized, benchmarked data to help shape strategies and guide medication-related performance improvement, our performance score was Five Stars, ranking our pharmacy among the top pharmacies in the U.S. Primary care physicians may refer patients to pharmacies that have high performance scores, though patients retain the right to have their prescriptions dispensed by a network of pharmacies of their choice.
Through our wholly owned subsidiary, ClearMetrX, we offer data management and reporting services to support health care organizations. There are substantial restrictions in federal and state laws on the use and sharing of patient data and ClearMetrX is in compliance with such laws. The ClearMetrX offerings include data management and Third-Party Administration (“TPA”) services for 340B covered entities, pharmacy data analytics, and programs to manage HEDIS Quality Measures including Medication Adherence. These offerings cater to the glaring need for frontline providers to understand best practices, patient behaviors, care management processes, and the financial mechanisms behind these decisions. We provide data access and actionable insights that providers and support organizations can use to improve their practice and patient care.
Pharmco also provides contracted pharmacy services for 340B covered entities under the 340B Drug Discount Pricing Program. Under the terms of these agreements, we act as a pass through for third-party payor reimbursements on prescription claims adjudicated on behalf of each 340B covered entity and receive a dispensing fee per prescription. These dispensing fees vary by the 340B covered entity and the level of service provided by us.
For our long-term care (“LTC”) customers, Pharmco provides purchasing, repackaging and dispensing of both prescription and non-prescription pharmaceutical products. Pharmco utilizes a unit-of-dose packaging system as opposed to the traditional vials as this method of distribution is the industry best practice standard. Pharmco is equipped for various types of unit-of-dose packaging options to meet the needs of LTC patients and retail customers. Pharmco uses the same robotic packaging systems currently used by chain, mail order, and large-scale pharmacies. Pharmco also provides computerized maintenance of patient prescription histories, third-party billing and consultant pharmacist services. Pharmco’s consultant pharmacist services consist primarily of evaluation of monthly patient drug therapy and monitoring the LTC institution’s drug distribution system.
Medication therapy management (“MTM”) involves review and adjustment of prescribed drug therapies to improve patient health outcomes for patients with multiple prescriptions. This process includes several activities such as performing patient assessments, creating medication treatment plans, monitoring the effectiveness of and adherence to prescribed therapies, and delivering documentation of these services to the patient’s physician to coordinate comprehensive care.
Distribution Methods
We currently deliver prescriptions throughout Florida and ship medications to residents in those states where we hold non-resident pharmacy licenses. We currently hold Florida Community Pharmacy Permits at all Florida pharmacy locations and our Pharmco 901 location is licensed as a non-resident pharmacy in the following states: Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Utah. We can dispense to patients in the state of Massachusetts without a non-resident pharmacy license because Massachusetts does not require such a license for these activities.
Pharmco subsidiaries are full-service retail specialty services pharmacies that offer same-day free delivery within Florida.
Industry and Market of our Healthcare Operations Business
Pharmacy operations
The retail pharmacy and pharmaceutical wholesale industries are highly competitive and dynamic and have experienced consolidation and an evolving competitive landscape in recent years. Prescription drugs play a significant role in healthcare, constituting a first line of treatment for many medical conditions. New and innovative drugs will improve quality of life and control healthcare costs. In light of accelerating usage of mail order and delivery-based services, both before and after the global COVID-19 pandemic, we believe the market for personalized and convenient care access is increasing. We have provided same-day and next-day home delivery services since the beginning of our operations. We are well positioned in Florida to gain additional market share among a broad demographic of patients due to our high-performance scores and value-added services. Additionally, we value opportunities that create strategic partnerships, acquire synergistic operations and expand current operations to round out pharmacy capabilities which could potentially include, but are not limited to, specialty medications, sterile compounding, and mail-order.
Data management services
The latest trend in healthcare is to use data to improve patient outcomes and quality of life – a practice known as “Applied Health Analytics”. “Data analytics” refers to the practice of aggregating large data sets and analyzing them to draw important insights and recommendations. This process is increasingly aided by new software and technology that facilitates the examination of large volumes of data to detect hidden information.
A key objective within organizations with access to large data collections is to harness the most relevant data and use it to optimize decision making. ClearMetrX developed the 340MetrX platform that retrieves dispensing pharmacy data to provide physicians and 340B covered entities with valuable and insightful reports and analytics to manage their operations.
We also serve the following key constituents, to benefit our patients:
Physicians and Health Systems: Our team works with physician offices to manage prior-authorization and other requirements of managed care organization requirements, such as denial and appeal process, to ensure that complicated administrative tasks do not impair the delivery of quality patient care. We provide risk evaluation services, implement risk mitigation strategies, and collect patient adherence data to provide physicians and health systems with enhanced visibility. Our tools and processes improve physician performance metrics which in turn results in enhanced profitability of the physicians’ practices.
Payors: We manage prescription regimens for chronically ill populations and help payors, including health insurance plans and PBMs, reduce costs through patient care management, reduction in readmission rates, decreased acute care spending for chronic care conditions, formulary compliance, and implementation of lowest cost-effective alternative therapies.
Virtual Healthcare Services and Healthcare Technologies
Virtual healthcare services, or Telehealth, is a growing segment of the healthcare sector. It involves remotely exchanging patient data between locations for the purposes of obtaining assistance in monitoring and diagnosing. Telehealth allows the healthcare practitioner to easily offer their services on consultation, care management, diagnosis, and self-management services using information and communication technologies. These services are being offered through various modes of delivery, such as on-premises, web-based, and cloud-based delivery. A growing population over the age of 65, the increase in the number of chronic diseases, and a rise in demand for home monitoring devices are the major drivers which are likely to aid the growth of the telehealth market.
In the current environment, healthcare information is increasingly fragmented with numerous electronic healthcare record platforms, virtual care systems, pharmacy software, and data silos and transmitters which lack fundamental integration. Healthcare stakeholders are often at odds about proper care techniques and this lack of alignment increases burdens on providers and patients alike and is associated with decreasing satisfaction with healthcare services and negative health outcomes.
Growth Strategy
We plan to grow our healthcare operations business by executing on the following key growth strategies:
Data Management Services. We believe that data management for frontline and independent providers, 340B covered entities, and pharmacies will have increasing importance as health systems evolve to become virtual and digitized. Increasing focus on performance, margins, and quality, means that our models and platforms will have strategic value through our roots in day-to-day care management. Data management services will become an increasing driver of growth and development for us with its higher margins and diverse monetization pathways.
Invest in Sales and Marketing. We are based in South Florida and will continue to grow our dispensing operations throughout the state, and there are opportunities to expand geographically throughout the rest of the country. Our data management services and health IT services can be used by customers across the U.S. and we expect to continue to invest in sales and marketing efforts for these services.
Selectively Pursue Growth Through Strategic Acquisitions. We believe the specialty pharmacy industry is highly fragmented and provides numerous opportunities to expand through acquisitions. While we will continue to focus on growing our business organically, we believe we can opportunistically enhance our competitive position through complementary acquisitions in both existing and new markets. We plan to selectively evaluate potential acquisition opportunities in other therapeutic categories, services, and technologies with the goal of preserving our culture, optimizing patient outcomes, enhancing value to other constituents, and building long-term value for our shareholders.
Competition to our Healthcare Operations Business
Competitive Strengths
We believe we are well positioned to continue to increase our market share based on the following competitive strengths:
Adding value to all constituents. The value we deliver to all constituents is based upon our thousands of daily patient interactions. We help patients adhere to complicated medication therapies, process refills, manage any side effects, and manage any insurance concerns ensuring that they get the best standard of care. The clinical efficacy of drug therapies, especially for acute and chronic conditions, is typically enhanced when patients precisely follow the prescribed treatment regimens, including dosing and frequency.
Performance. Pharmacies are measured against their peers to improve quality of patient care. We have dedicated staff to track performance metrics, ensuring high comparative adherence rates. Across the population, an average 50% of patients are adherent to prescribed medication protocols. We believe our high adherence rates are due to, among other things, our model of proactive patient engagement, direct communication with and connections to healthcare stakeholders, our patient training and education, patient behavior analysis and medication coaching, compliance packaging, tracking timing of refills, free home delivery, and language support. We also help identify third-party funding support programs to help cover expensive out-of-pocket costs.
Clinically trained operational professionals. Our licensed pharmacists and technicians have been trained on our patient care model and data management tools to conduct a full healthcare evaluation. These healthcare professionals not only dispense medications, but also analyze patients’ needs, behaviors, lifestyles, healthcare services providers, and payor resources to optimize the medication therapies received. Our staff conducts this full healthcare evaluation while also communicating necessary care information to authorized providers and caregivers before medications are dispensed, which differentiates our pharmacy operations from our competitors’ models.
Lean and nimble operational strategy. Healthcare is an industry where best practices are continuously evolving. With increasing emphasis on reducing healthcare costs which puts pressure on gross margins, we have identified new trends and opportunities pivoting to business processes better suited to future environments. Additionally, we have focused on diversifying our revenue streams within the pharmacy industry to identify complementary and associated revenue opportunities to keep the operation one step ahead of market forces.
Diversity and cultural awareness. We represent the fabric of the community from which we originate. Our employees consist of diverse faiths, races, ethnic origins, and sexual orientations. This provides us with the unique ability to speak the language that our patients and providers speak. It has also allowed us to be innovative in our approach to healthcare by leveraging the broad perspectives of our team to challenge our methodologies and be responsive to the unique needs of our patients, clients, and customers.
Competitive Positions and Methods of Competition
We compete with national and independent retail drug stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, mail order prescription providers, discount merchandisers, membership clubs, health clinics, provider dispensaries, and internet pharmacies. Competition is based on several factors including store location and convenience, customer service and satisfaction, product selection and variety, and price. Our primary competitive advantages lie in providing personalized service to the patients and facility operators, selectively adding labor saving and compliance enhancing processes and carrying inventory to provide rapid delivery of all pharmaceutical needs, free home delivery services, and data management and analytics.
In the United States, the provision of healthcare services of any kind is highly competitive. Our ability to recruit qualified personnel, attract new institutional and retail clients, and expand the reach of our pharmacy operations relies on our ability to quickly adapt to changing societal attitudes, market pressure, and government regulation.
We face substantial competition within the pharmaceutical healthcare services industry and in the past year have seen even more consolidation. We expect to see this trend continue in the coming year and it is uncertain what effect, if any, these consolidations will have on us or the industry. The industry includes several large, well-capitalized companies with nationwide operations and capabilities in the specialty services and PBM services arenas, such as CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, Humana, Walgreens, Optum, MedImpact Healthcare Systems and many smaller organizations that typically operate on a local or regional basis. In the Specialty Pharmacy Services segment, we compete with several national and regional specialty pharmacy companies that have substantial financial resources and which also provide products and services to the chronically ill, such as CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, Humana, Optum and Walgreens.
Some of our pharmacy service competitors are under common control with, or are owned by, pharmaceutical wholesalers and distributors or retail pharmacy chains and may be better positioned with respect to the cost-effective distribution of pharmaceuticals. Some of our primary competitors, such as Omnicare and Walgreens, have a substantially larger market share than our existing market share. Moreover, some of our competitors may have secured long-term supply or distribution arrangements for prescription pharmaceuticals necessary to treat certain chronic disease states on price terms substantially more favorable than the terms currently available to us. Because of such advantageous pricing, we may be less price competitive than some of these competitors with respect to certain pharmaceutical products.
Intellectual Property
Our success and ability to compete depends in part on our ability to maintain our trade secrets. All of our employees and consultants are subject to non-disclosure agreements and other contractual provisions to establish and maintain our proprietary rights.
Regulatory Matters
Government contract laws and regulations affect how we will do business with our customers, and in some instances, will impose added costs on our business. A violation of specific laws and regulations could result in the imposition of fines and penalties, and the termination of any contracts, or the inability to bid on future contracts. We intend our Orbital Satcom subsidiary to become qualified as a government contractor. Our products may also be subject to regulation by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Federal Communications Commission that regulate wireless communications.
Government approval is necessary to open any new pharmacy or other health services location.
Effect of Existing or Probable Governmental Regulations
As a participant in the healthcare industry, our operations and relationships are subject to federal and state laws and regulations and enforcement by federal and state governmental agencies. Various federal and state laws and regulations govern the purchase, dispensing or distribution, and management of prescription drugs and related services we provide and may affect us. We believe that we are in substantial compliance with all legal requirements material to our operations.
We conduct ongoing educational programs to inform employees regarding compliance with relevant laws and regulations and maintain a formal reporting procedure to disclose possible violations of these laws and regulations to the Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Professional Licensure. Pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and certain other health care professionals employed by us are required to be individually licensed or certified under applicable state law. We perform searches in criminal, federal and state exclusion lists, and other background checks on employees and are required under state licensure to ensure that our employees possess all necessary licenses and certifications. We believe that our employees comply in all material respects with applicable licensure laws.
State laws require that each pharmacy location be licensed as an in-state or non-resident pharmacy to dispense pharmaceuticals in that state. State controlled substance laws require registration and compliance with state pharmacy licensure, registration or permit standards promulgated by the state’s pharmacy licensing authority. Such standards often address the qualification of an applicant’s personnel, the adequacy of its prescription fulfillment and inventory control practices and the adequacy of its facilities. In general, pharmacy licenses are renewed annually or biennial according to state laws. We believe that our pharmacies’ present and future locations comply with all state licensing laws applicable to these businesses. If our pharmacy locations become subject to additional licensure requirements, are unable to maintain their required licenses or if states place burdensome restrictions or limitations on pharmacies, our ability to operate in the state would be limited, which could have an adverse impact on our business.
Other Laws Affecting Pharmacy Operations. We are subject to federal and state statutes and regulations governing the operation of pharmacies, repackaging of drug products, wholesale distribution, dispensing of controlled substances, medical waste disposal, and clinical trials. Federal and state statutes and regulations govern the labeling, packaging, advertising and adulteration of prescription drugs and the dispensing of controlled substances. Federal and state-controlled substance laws require us to register our pharmacies with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) and to comply with security, record keeping, inventory control, labeling standards and other requirements to dispense controlled substances.
Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Certain provisions of the federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act govern the handling and distribution of pharmaceutical products. This law exempts many pharmaceuticals and medical devices from federal labeling and packaging requirements if they are not adulterated or misbranded and are dispensed in accordance with, and pursuant to, a valid prescription. We believe that we comply in all material respects with all applicable requirements.
Anti-Kickback Laws. Subject to certain statutory and regulatory exceptions (including exceptions relating to certain managed care, discount, bona fide employment arrangements, group purchasing and personal services arrangements), the federal “anti-kickback” law prohibits the knowing and willful offer or payment of any remuneration to induce the referral of an individual or the purchase, lease or order (or the arranging for or recommending of the purchase, lease or order) of healthcare items or services paid for in whole or in part by Medicare, Medicaid or other government-funded healthcare programs (including both traditional Medicaid fee-for-service programs as well as Medicaid managed care programs). Violation of the federal anti-kickback statute could subject us to criminal and/or civil penalties including suspension or exclusion from Medicare and Medicaid programs and other government-funded healthcare programs for not less than five years, or the imposition of civil monetary penalties. Exclusion from any of these programs or sanctions of civil monetary penalties could have a material adverse impact on our operations and financial condition.
The federal anti-kickback law has been interpreted broadly by courts, the OIG of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”), and other administrative bodies. Because of the broad scope of those statutes, federal regulations establish certain safe harbors from liability. Safe harbors exist for certain properly reported discounts received from vendors, certain investment interests held by a person or entity, and certain properly disclosed payments made by vendors to group purchasing organizations, as well as for other transactions or relationships. Nonetheless, a practice that does not fall within a safe harbor is not necessarily unlawful but may be subject to scrutiny and challenge. In the absence of an applicable exception or safe harbor, a violation of the statute may occur even if only one purpose of a payment arrangement is to induce patient referrals or purchases. Among the practices that have been identified by the OIG as potentially improper under the statute are certain “product conversion” or “switching” programs in which benefits are given by drug manufacturers to pharmacists or physicians for changing a prescription (or recommending or requesting such a change) from one drug to another. Anti-kickback laws have been cited as a partial basis, along with state consumer protection laws discussed below, for investigations and multi-state settlements relating to financial incentives provided by drug manufacturers to retail pharmacies about such programs.
Several states also have enacted anti-kickback laws that sometimes apply not only to state-sponsored healthcare programs but also to items or services that are paid for by private insurance and self-pay patients. State anti-kickback laws can vary considerably in their applicability and scope and sometimes have fewer statutory and regulatory exceptions than federal law. Management understands the importance of anti-kickback laws and has helped structure our operations in a manner believed to be compliant with these laws.
The Stark Laws. The federal self-referral law, commonly known as the “Stark Law”, prohibits physicians from referring Medicare or Medicaid patients for “designated health services” (which include, among other things, outpatient prescription drugs, durable medical equipment and supplies and home health services) to an entity with which the physician, or an immediate family member of the physician, has a direct or indirect financial relationship, unless the financial relationship is structured to meet an applicable exception. Several states have enacted laws similar to the Stark Law. These state laws may cover all, not just Medicare and Medicaid, patients and exceptions or safe harbors may vary from the Stark Law and vary significantly from state to state. Many federal healthcare reform proposals in the past few years have attempted to expand the Stark Law to cover all patients as well. Possible penalties for violation of the Stark Law include denial of payment, refund of amounts collected in violation of the statute, civil monetary penalties, and program exclusion. Noncompliance with the Stark Law could adversely affect our financial results and operations.
Statutes Prohibiting False Claims and Fraudulent Billing Activities. A range of federal civil and criminal laws target false claims and fraudulent billing activities. One of the most significant is the federal False Claims Act (the “False Claims Act”), which imposes civil penalties for knowingly making or causing to be made false claims to secure a reimbursement from government-sponsored programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid. Investigations or actions commenced under the False Claims Act may be brought either by the government or by private individuals on behalf of the government, through a “whistleblower” or “qui tam” action. The False Claims Act authorizes the payment of a portion of any recovery to the individual suing. Such actions are initially required to be filed under seal pending their review by the Department of Justice. If the government intervenes in the lawsuit and prevails, the whistleblower (or plaintiff filing the initial complaint) may share with the federal government in any settlement or judgment. If the government does not intervene in the lawsuit, the whistleblower plaintiff may pursue the action independently. The False Claims Act generally provides for the imposition of civil penalties and for treble damages, resulting in the possibility of substantial financial penalties for small billing errors that are replicated in many claims, as each individual claim could be deemed to be a separate violation of the False Claims Act.
Some states also have enacted statutes like the False Claims Act which may include criminal penalties, substantial fines, and treble damages. In recent years, federal and state governments have launched several initiatives aimed at uncovering practices that violate false claims or fraudulent billing laws. Under Section 1909 of the Social Security Act, if a state false claim act meets certain requirements as determined by the OIG in consultation with the U.S. Attorney General, the state is entitled to an increase of ten percentage points in the state medical assistance percentage with respect to any amounts recovered under a state action brought under such a law. Some of the larger states in terms of population that have had the OIG review such laws include California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Tennessee and Texas. We operate in several of these states and submit claims for Medicaid reimbursement to the respective state Medicaid agency. This legislation has led to increased auditing activities by state healthcare regulators. As such, we have been the subject of an increased number of audits. While we believe that we are following Medicaid and Medicare billing rules and requirements, there can be no assurance that regulators would agree with the methodology employed by us in billing for our products and services and a material disagreement between us and these governmental agencies on the way we provide products or services could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations, our financial position, and our results of operations.
The False Claims Act also has been used by the federal government and private whistleblowers to bring enforcement actions under so-called “fraud and abuse” laws like the federal anti-kickback statute and the Stark Law. Such actions are not based on a contention that an entity has submitted claims that are facially invalid. Instead, such actions are based on the theory that when an entity submits a claim, it either expressly or impliedly certifies that it has provided the underlying services in compliance with applicable laws, and therefore that services provided and billed for during an anti-kickback statute or Stark Law violation result in false claims, even if such claims are billed accurately for appropriate and medically necessary services. The availability of the False Claims Act to enforce alleged fraud and abuse violations has increased the potential for such actions to be brought, and which often are costly and time-consuming to defend.
Confidentiality and Privacy. Most of our activities involve the receipt, use and disclosure of confidential medical, pharmacy or other health-related information concerning individual members, including the disclosure of the confidential information to the member’s health benefit plan.
On April 14, 2003, the final regulations issued by HHS, regarding the privacy of individually identifiable health information (the “Privacy Regulations”) pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”) took effect. The Privacy Regulations are designed to protect the medical information of a healthcare patient or health plan enrollee that could be used to identify the individual.
The requirements imposed by the Privacy Regulations, the Transactions Standards, and the Security Standards are extensive and can require substantial cost and effort to assess and implement. We have taken and will continue to take steps that we believe are reasonable to ensure that our policies and procedures are following the Privacy Regulations, the Transactions Standards, and the Security Standards. The requirements imposed by HIPAA have increased our burden and costs of regulatory compliance, altered our reporting to Plan Sponsors and reduced the amount of information we can use or disclose if members do not authorize such uses or disclosures.
Medicare Part D. The Medicare Part D program, which makes prescription drug coverage available to eligible Medicare beneficiaries, regulates various aspects of the provision of Medicare drug coverage, including enrollment, formularies, pharmacy networks, marketing, and claims processing. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (“CMS”) imposed restrictions and consent requirements for automatic prescription delivery programs, and further limited the circumstances under which Medicare Part D plans may recoup payments to pharmacies for claims that are subsequently determined not payable under Medicare Part D. CMS sanctions for non-compliance may include suspension of enrollment and even termination from the program.
The Medicare Part D program has undergone significant legislative and regulatory changes since its inception. Medicare Part D continues to attract a high degree of legislative and regulatory scrutiny, and applicable government rules and regulations continue to evolve. For example, CMS may issue regulations that limit the ability of Medicare Part D plans to establish preferred pharmacy networks.
Any Willing Provider Statutes and Narrow Networks. Any Willing Provider (“AWP”) statutes are laws that require health insurance carriers to permit providers to join those networks so long as the provider is willing to accept the terms and conditions of that carrier’s plan. Numerous states have some form of AWP law, though nearly all prohibit insurance carriers from limiting membership within their provider networks based on geography or other characteristics. The laws in each state addressing the legality of narrow networks vary widely. Some laws address plans only while other laws address non-insurers, like a PBM. Some laws address all types of health benefits while other laws only address a single type of benefit, like pharmacy. The risk to a pharmacy would be in those states that do not have an applicable AWP statute, a provider can be excluded from a narrow network.
While the offering of narrow and preferred networks is common across the country, there have been many lawsuits challenging the use of these type of arrangements due to the fact that they exclude certain providers from participating. The outcome of the challenges has varied, primarily based upon the interpretation of the state laws under which the challenges are made. This is an evolving area of law. Given the intense scrutiny of drug pricing and arrangements, and the ongoing lawsuits that are being filed in response to narrow networks, there remains risk in developing narrow networks, which will vary by state, depending on each state’s laws and legal precedent. Additionally, state laws are subject to change at any time, resulting in uncertainty for pharmacy operations in a given state.
Health Reform Legislation. Congress passed major health reform legislation, including the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“ACA”), as amended by the Healthcare and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (the “Health Reform Laws”), which enacted a number of significant healthcare reforms. There have been executive, judicial, and Congressional challenges to certain aspects of the Health Reform Laws. For instance, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 included a provision that repealed the tax-based shared responsibility payment imposed by the Health Reform Laws on certain individuals who fail to maintain qualifying health coverage for all or part of a year that is commonly referred to as the “individual mandate.” On June 17, 2021, the Supreme Court dismissed a challenge on procedural grounds that argued the ACA is unconstitutional in its entirety because the “individual mandate” was repealed by Congress. Further, on August 16, 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) into law, which among other things, extends enhanced subsidies for individuals purchasing health insurance coverage in ACA marketplaces through plan year 2025. The IRA also eliminates the “donut hole” under the Medicare Part D program beginning in 2025 by significantly lowering the beneficiary maximum out-of-pocket cost and creating a new manufacturer discount program. It is possible that the ACA will be subject to judicial or Congressional challenges in the future. It is unclear how any such challenges and the healthcare reform measures of the Biden administration will impact the ACA and our business.
Costs and Effects of Compliance with Environmental Laws
Not applicable.
Employees
As of December 31, 2023, we had 142 full-time employees and 24 part-time employee.
Sources and Availability of Components and Raw Materials
Certain materials and equipment for our products are custom-made for those products and are dependent upon either a single or limited number of suppliers. A supplier failure could cause delays in product delivery if another supplier cannot be found promptly, or if the quality of such replacement supplier’s components is inferior or unacceptable. As a result of COVID-19 and related supply chain constraints, we have experienced shortages in inventory due to manufacturing and logistical issues.
We obtain pharmaceutical and other products from wholesale drug distributors. We have maintained a relationship with a primary supplier that accounted for 98% of pharmaceutical purchases for the six months ended December 31, 2023, and several supplementary suppliers. Our primary supplier for the years ended December 31, 2023 was McKesson. The loss of a supplier could adversely affect our business if alternate sources of drug supply are unavailable. We believe that our relationships with our suppliers, overall, are good, and that there are alternative suppliers in the marketplace.
Our Risks and History of Losses
Our ability to achieve our mission and execute our strategies is subject to certain challenges, risks and uncertainties, including, among others:
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Our ability to obtain sufficient funding to expand our business and respond to business opportunities |
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Our ability to acquire new customers or retain existing customers in a cost-effective manner |
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Our ability to successfully improve our production efficiencies and economies of scale |
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Our ability to manage our supply chain to continue to satisfy our future operation needs |
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Our ability to retain our market share in our industry |
We have incurred net losses since our inception. For the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022, we have incurred net losses of approximately $12.4 million and $9.2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, we had an accumulated deficit of approximately $34.9 million. We expect to incur additional losses prior to recording sufficient revenue from our operations as a result of the costs associated with expanding and seeking additional sources of revenue to our current revenue base.
Corporate Information
NextPlat Corp, formerly Orbsat Corp, is a Nevada corporation and was originally incorporated in Florida in 1997. Our headquarters and principal executive offices are located at 3250 Mary St., Suite 410, Coconut Grove, FL 33133. Our telephone number is (305) 560-5355, and our corporate website is www.nextplat.com. Unless the context requires otherwise, in this report the terms “the Company,” “we,” “us,” and, “our” refer to NextPlat and our wholly owned subsidiaries.
Available Information
We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. The SEC also maintains an Internet site that contains annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy and information statements and other information that we (together with other issuers) file electronically. The SEC’s Internet site is www.sec.gov. We make available free of charge on or through our website our annual, quarterly and current reports and amendments to those reports as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with or furnish it to the SEC.
The contents of our website or any other website are not incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
An investment in our securities involves a high degree of risk. You should consider carefully all of the risks described below, together with the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, before making a decision to invest in our securities. The risk factors in this section describe the material risks to our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition or cash flows, and should be considered carefully. In addition, these factors constitute our cautionary statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements (as defined in such act) made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Investors should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical facts and that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as “will likely result,” “are expected to,” “will continue,” “is anticipated,” “estimated,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes” and “projects”) may be forward-looking and may involve estimates and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements.
Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of such factors. Further, we cannot assess the impact of each such factor on our results of operations or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.
Summary of Risk Factors
Risks Related to Our Business Generally
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We have a history of net losses, and we are uncertain about our future profitability. |
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Supply chain and shipping disruptions have resulted in shipping delays, a significant increase in shipping costs, and could increase product costs and result in lost sales, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. |
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Our dependence on key suppliers puts us at risk of interruptions in the availability of our products, which could reduce our revenue and adversely affect the results of operations. |
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Unfavorable global economic conditions have in the past and could in the future adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. |
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We may need to raise additional capital to grow our business and satisfy our anticipated future liquidity needs, and we may not be able to raise it on terms acceptable to us, or at all. |
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Sustained investment in our business, strategic acquisitions and investments, as well as our focus on long-term performance, and on maintaining the health of our new e-commerce ecosystem, may negatively affect our margins and our net income, if any. |
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The concentration of ownership by our principal stockholders may result in control by such stockholders of the composition of our board of directors. |
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We will become subject to a broad range of laws and regulations, and future laws and regulations may impose additional requirements and other obligations that could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as the trading prices of our securities. |
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If we are successful in implementing our business strategy we will generate and process a large amount of data, including personal data, and the improper use or disclosure of data could result in regulatory investigations and penalties, and harm our reputation and have a material adverse effect on the trading prices of our securities, our business and our prospects. |
Risks Related to Our e-Commerce Business
| ● | Our sales may be impacted should there be a disruption of service to our Amazon or Alibaba online storefronts. | |
| ● | Creating and maintaining a trusted status of our online marketing presence or ecosystem will be critical to our viability and growth. | |
| ● | Any termination or material change in our relationship with Amazon or Alibaba could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. | |
| ● | We may not be able to maintain and improve our online marketing. | |
| ● | We face challenges in expanding our international and cross-border businesses and operations. | |
| ● | We are heavily reliant on the services of certain executive officers and the departure or loss of any of these officers could disrupt our business. | |
| ● | A significant portion of our revenues are from sales of products on Amazon and any limitation or restriction, temporarily or otherwise, to sell on Amazon’s platform could have a material adverse impact to our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects. | |
| ● | If logistics service providers used by our merchants fail to provide reliable logistics services, our business and prospects, as well as our financial condition and results of operations, may be materially and adversely affected. | |
| ● | Our e-commerce platforms could be disrupted by network interruptions. | |
| ● | Security breaches and attacks against our systems and network, and any potentially resulting breach or failure to otherwise protect personal, confidential and proprietary information, could damage our reputation and negatively impact our business, as well as materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. | |
| ● | Non-compliance with, or changes in, the legal and regulatory environment in the countries in which we operate could increase our costs or reduce our net operating revenues. | |
| ● | Tightening of tax compliance efforts that affect our merchants could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. |
Risks Related to Doing Business in China
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Changes in China’s economic, political or social conditions or government policies could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions and results of operations. |
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Uncertainties with respect to China’s PRC legal system could adversely affect us. |
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Recent litigation and negative publicity surrounding China-based companies listed in the United States may negatively impact the trading price of our securities. |
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Fluctuations in exchange rates could have a material and adverse effect on the results of operations and the value of your investment. |
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Governmental control of currency conversion may limit our ability to utilize our revenues effectively and affect the value of your investment. |
Risks Related to Our Healthcare Business
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We derive a significant portion of our sales from prescription drug sales reimbursed by pharmacy benefit management companies. |
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Efforts to reduce reimbursement levels and alter health care financing practices could adversely affect our businesses. |
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A slowdown in the frequency and rate of the introduction of new prescription drugs as well as generic alternatives to brand name prescription products could adversely affect our business, financial position, and results of operations. |
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Uncertainty regarding the impact of Medicare Part D may adversely affect our business, financial position and our results of operations. |
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Unexpected safety or efficacy concerns may arise from pharmaceutical products. |
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Prescription volumes may decline, and our net revenues and ability to generate earnings may be negatively impacted, if products are withdrawn from the market or if increased safety risk profiles of specific drugs result in utilization decreases. |
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Certain risks are inherent in providing pharmacy services; our insurance may not be adequate to cover any claims against us. |
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Changes in industry pricing benchmarks could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations. |
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The industries in which we operate are extremely competitive and competition could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations. |
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Existing and new government legislative and regulatory action could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations. |
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Changes in the health care regulatory environment may adversely affect our business. |
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Efforts to reform the U.S. health care system may adversely affect our financial performance. |
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If we are found to be in violation of Medicaid and Medicare reimbursement regulations, we could become subject to retroactive adjustments and recoupment, or exclusion from the Medicaid, Medicare programs, and PBM networks. |
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Our industry is subject to extensive government regulation, and noncompliance by us or our suppliers could harm our business. |
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Our operating results are affected by the health of the economy in general and the markets we serve. |
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If the products and services that we offer fail to meet customer needs, our sales may be affected. |
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We are highly dependent on one supplier for our products, and a loss of that supplier may adversely impact our ability to sell products to our customers. |
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We derive a significant portion of our revenues from a small number of customers and a loss of one or both of those customers would have a material adverse impact on our business. |
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Our ability to grow our business may be constrained by our inability to find suitable new pharmacy locations at acceptable prices. |
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Our ability to grow our business may be constrained by our inability to obtain adequate permits and licensing for new locations, business lines, and market territories. |
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Product liability, product recall or personal injury issues could damage our reputation and have a significant adverse effect on our businesses, operating results, cash flows and/or financial condition. |
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If we are not able to market our services effectively to clinics, their affiliated healthcare providers and prescription drug providers, we may not be able to grow our patient base as rapidly as we have anticipated. |
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A disruption in our telephone system or our computer system could harm our business. |
Risks Related to the Pharmacy Industry
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There is substantial competition in our industry, and we may not be able to compete successfully. |
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If demand for our products and services is reduced, our business and ability to grow would be harmed. |
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Our revenues could be adversely affected if new drugs or combination therapies are developed and prescribed to our patients that have a reimbursement rate less than that of the current drug therapies our patients receive. |
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If our credit terms with vendors become unfavorable or our relationship with them is terminated, our business could be adversely affected. |
Risks Relating to Our Data Management Services
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Competition with some customers, or decisions by customers to perform internally some of the same solutions or services that we offer, could harm our business, results of operations or financial condition. |
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If our solutions do not interoperate with our customers’ or their vendors’ networks and infrastructures, or if customers or their vendors implement new system updates that are incompatible with our solutions, sales of those solutions could be adversely affected. |
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Our ability to generate revenue could suffer if we do not continue to update and improve existing solutions and develop new ones. |
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There are increased risks of performance problems and breaches during times when we are making significant changes to our solutions or systems we use to provide our solutions. In addition, changes to our solutions or systems, including cost savings initiatives, may cost more than anticipated, may not provide the benefits expected, may take longer than anticipated to develop and implement or may increase the risk of performance problems. |
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Breaches and failures of our IT systems and the security measures protecting them, and the sensitive information we transmit, use and store, expose us to potential liability and reputational harm. |
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We collect, process, store, share, disclose and use personal information and other data, and our actual or perceived failure to protect such information and data could damage our reputation and brand and harm our business and operating results. |
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If we are unable to successfully execute on cross-selling opportunities of our solutions the growth of our business and financial performance could be harmed. |
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We rely on internet infrastructure, bandwidth providers, other third parties and our own systems in providing certain of our solutions to our customers, and any failure or interruption in the services provided by these third parties or our own systems could negatively impact our relationships with customers, adversely affecting our brand and our business. |
Risks Related to Our Business
We have a history of net losses, and we are uncertain about our future profitability.
We have incurred significant net losses since our inception. For the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022, we have incurred net losses of approximately $12.4 million, and $9.2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, we had an accumulated deficit of approximately $34.9 million. If our revenue grows more slowly than currently anticipated, or if operating expenses are higher than expected, we may be unable to consistently achieve profitability, our financial condition will suffer, and the value of our common stock could decline. Even if we are successful in increasing our sales, we may incur losses in the foreseeable future as we continue to develop and market our products. If sales revenue from any of our current products or any additional products that we develop in the future is insufficient, or if our product development is delayed, we may be unable to achieve profitability and, in the event we are unable to secure financing for prolonged periods of time, we may need to temporarily cease operations and, possibly, shut them down altogether. Furthermore, even if we can achieve profitability, we may be unable to sustain or increase such profitability on a quarterly or annual basis, which would adversely impact our financial condition and significantly reduce the value of our common stock.
The continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact are highly unpredictable and could be significant, and could harm our business, financial condition, and operating results.
Our business, operations and financial performance have been, and may continue to be, affected by the macroeconomic impacts resulting from COVID-19, and as a result, our revenue growth rate and expenses as a percentage of our revenues in future periods may differ significantly from our historical rates, and our future operating results may fall below expectations. The extent to which our business will continue to be affected will depend on a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our control, including the persistence of the pandemic, impacts on economic activity, and the possibility of recession or continued financial market instability.
Events outside of our control, including those relating to public health crises, supply-chain disruptions, geopolitical conflicts, including acts of war, and inflation, could negatively affect our Company and our results of operations and financial condition.
Periods of market volatility have occurred and could continue to occur in response to pandemics or other events outside of our control. These types of events may adversely affect operating results for us. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to, and for an unknown period of time will continue to lead to, disruptions in local, regional, national and global markets and economies affected thereby, including the United States. With respect to U.S. and global credit markets and the economy in general, this outbreak has resulted in, and until fully resolved is likely to continue to result in, the following (among other things): (i) restrictions on travel and the temporary closure of many corporate offices, retail stores, and manufacturing facilities and factories, resulting in significant disruption to the business of many companies, including supply chains and demand, as well as layoffs of employees; (ii) increased draws by borrowers on lines of credit; (iii) increased requests by borrowers for amendments or waivers of their credit agreements to avoid default, increased defaults by borrowers and/or increased difficulty in obtaining refinancing; (iv) volatility in credit markets, including greater volatility in pricing and spreads; and (v) evolving proposals and actions by state and federal governments to address the problems being experienced by markets, businesses and the economy in general, which may not adequately address the problems being facing such persons. While many countries, including the United States, have relaxed or eliminated the early public health restrictions adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the outbreak of new, worsening strains of COVID-19 may result in a resurgence in the number of reported cases and hospitalizations. Such increases in cases could lead to the reintroduction of restrictions and business shutdowns in certain states, counties and cities in the United States and globally. In addition to these developments having adverse consequences for us and our portfolio companies, the operations of the Company have been, and could continue to be, adversely impacted, including through quarantine measures and travel restrictions imposed on its personnel or service providers based or temporarily located in affected countries, or any related health issues of such personnel or service providers.
As the future impact of COVID-19 and its variants is difficult to predict, the extent to which they could negatively affect our operating results or the duration of any potential business or supply-chain disruption is uncertain. Any potential impact to our results of operations will depend to a large extent on future developments and new information that could emerge regarding the duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic and the actions taken by authorities and other entities to contain the spread of COVID-19 and its variants or treat its impact, all of which are beyond our control. These potential impacts, while uncertain, could adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.
This pandemic has also caused, and may continue to cause, disruption to our global supply chain and business operations. In particular, shortages in commodities and materials, including shortages and reductions in allocations of electronic and other components from key suppliers, labor shortages and elevated levels of employee absenteeism, freight delays and other supply chain constraints and disruptions have significantly delayed or disrupted, and may continue to adversely impact, both our suppliers and third party vendors and our ability to deliver products and/or services to our end-users and customers. We have also experienced a significant increase in parts and material component inflation from pre-pandemic levels, as well as inflation in other costs, such as labor, packaging, freight, and energy prices. Continued supply chain disruptions and delays, as well as continued heightened inflation, could lead to continued periodic delivery interruptions and other inefficiencies that could negatively impact our productivity, margin performance and results of operations, which could result in a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Supply chain and shipping disruptions have resulted in shipping delays, a significant increase in shipping costs, and could increase product costs and result in lost sales, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.
Supply chain disruptions, resulting from factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, labor supply and shipping container shortages, have impacted, and may continue to impact, us and our third-party manufacturers and suppliers. These disruptions have impacted our ability to receive products from manufacturers and suppliers, to distribute our products to our customers in a cost-effective and timely manner and to meet customer demand, all of which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
While we have taken steps to minimize the impact of these disruptions, there can be no assurances that further unforeseen events impacting the supply chain will not have a material adverse effect on us in the future. Additionally, the impact that supply chain disruptions have on our manufacturers and suppliers is not within our control. It is not currently possible to predict how long it will take for these supply chain disruptions to cease or ease. Prolonged supply chain disruptions impacting us, and our manufacturers and suppliers could interrupt product manufacturing, increase raw material and product lead times, increase raw material and product costs, impact our ability to meet customer demand and result in lost sales, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our dependence on key suppliers puts us at risk of interruptions in the availability of our products, which could reduce our revenue and adversely affect the results of operations. In addition, increases in prices for components used in our products could adversely affect our results of operations.
We require the timely delivery of products provided by our suppliers, some of which are custom made, to ensure our ongoing sales revenue is not adversely affected. For reasons of quality assurance, cost effectiveness or availability, we procure certain products from a single or limited number of suppliers. We generally acquire such products through purchase orders placed in the ordinary course of business, and as a result we may not have a significant inventory of these products and generally do not have any guaranteed or contractual supply arrangements with many of these suppliers. Our reliance on these suppliers subjects us to risks that could harm our business, including, but not limited to, difficulty locating and qualifying alternative suppliers and limited control over pricing, availability, quality and delivery schedules. Suppliers of products may decide, or be required, for reasons beyond our control, to cease supplying materials and components to us or to raise their prices. Shortages of materials, quality control problems, production capacity constraints or delays by our suppliers could negatively affect our ability to meet our production requirements and result in increased prices for affected products. We may also face delays, yield issues and quality control problems if we are required to locate and secure new sources of supply. Any material shortage, constraint or delay may result in delays in shipments of our products, which could materially adversely affect the results of operations. Increases in prices for materials and components used in our products could also materially adversely affect our results of operations.
Unfavorable global economic conditions have in the past and could in the future adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our results of operations have in the past and could in the future be adversely affected by general conditions in the global economy and in the global financial markets. Key national economies, including the United States, have been affected from time to time by economic downturns or recessions, government shutdowns, supply chain constraints, heightened and fluctuating inflation and interest rates, restricted credit, poor liquidity, reduced corporate profitability, volatility in credit, equity and foreign exchange markets, bankruptcies and overall uncertainty with respect to the economy. For example, while we do not have activities in Russia and Ukraine or Gaza and Israel, the ongoing conflicts and any further escalation of geopolitical tensions related to these conflicts, including the imposition of sanctions by the United States and other countries, has and could result in, among other things, supply disruptions, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, increased probability of a recession and increased volatility in financial markets. In addition, in the past, U.S. debt ceiling and budget deficit concerns have increased the possibility of additional credit-rating downgrades and economic slowdowns, or a recession in the United States. Although U.S. lawmakers passed legislation to raise the federal debt ceiling on multiple occasions, ratings agencies have lowered or threatened to lower the long-term sovereign credit rating on the United States. The impact of this or any further downgrades to the U.S. government’s sovereign credit rating or its perceived creditworthiness could adversely affect the U.S. and global financial markets and economic conditions. Any of these disruptions could adversely affect our businesses, results of operations and financial condition.
The United Kingdom’s departure from the EU could adversely affect us.
We sell our products and services in the United Kingdom (the “UK”) and throughout Europe. In particular, the UK is one of our largest markets in Europe for product and airtime sales. On June 23, 2016, the UK voted in an advisory referendum for the UK to leave the European Union (the “EU”) and, subsequently, on March 29, 2017, the UK government began the formal process of leaving the EU (“Brexit”). The UK withdrew from the EU on January 31, 2020. Effective January 1, 2021, the EU and UK entered into the Trade and Cooperation Agreement regarding trade policies and other political and strategic issues. The future consequences of Brexit are unknown at this time, but Brexit has created additional administrative burdens and legal, regulatory, and currency risk that may have a materially adverse impact on our business. Furthermore, this uncertainty could negatively impact the economies of other countries in which we operate.
Currency exchange rate fluctuations may affect the results of operations.
To the extent that we are successful in broadening the reach of our online e-commerce marketing into other countries we will have transactions denominated in an increasing number and variety of currencies. We will be subject to currency exchange rate risk to the extent that our costs are denominated in currencies other than those in which we earn revenues. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates may therefore have an impact on our results as expressed in U.S. dollars. There can be no assurance that currency exchange rate fluctuations will not adversely affect the results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. While the use of currency hedging instruments may provide us with protection from adverse fluctuations in currency exchange rates, by utilizing these instruments we potentially forego the benefits that might result from favorable fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
We may need to raise additional capital to grow our business and satisfy our anticipated future liquidity needs, and we may not be able to raise it on terms acceptable to us, or at all.
Growing and operating our business will require significant cash outlays, liquidity reserves and capital expenditures and commitments to respond to business challenges, including developing or enhancing new or existing products. As of December 31, 2023, we had cash on hand of approximately $26.3 million. If cash on hand, cash generated from operations, and the net proceeds from prior offerings are not sufficient to meet our cash and liquidity needs, we may need to seek additional capital, potentially through debt or equity financing. To the extent that we raise additional capital through the sale of additional equity or convertible securities, your ownership interest may be diluted, and the terms of these securities may include liquidation or other preferences that adversely affect your rights as a stockholder. Debt financing, if available, would result in increased fixed payment obligations and a portion of our operating cash flows, if any, being dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on such indebtedness. In addition, debt financing may involve agreements that include restrictive covenants that impose operating restrictions, such as restrictions on the incurrence of additional debt, the making of certain capital expenditures or the declaration of dividends. Any additional fundraising efforts may divert our management from their day-to-day activities, which may adversely affect our ability to develop and commercialize our products. Even if we believe we have sufficient funds for our current or future operating plans, we may seek additional capital if market conditions are favorable or considering specific strategic considerations. If we are unable to obtain funding on a timely basis, we may be required to significantly curtail, delay or discontinue one or more of our research or product candidate development programs or the commercialization of any product candidate or be unable to expand our operations or otherwise capitalize on our business opportunities, as desired, which could materially affect our business, operating results and prospects and cause the price of the common stock to decline.
Sustained investment in our business, strategic acquisitions and investments, as well as our focus on long-term performance, and on maintaining the health of our new e-commerce ecosystem, may negatively affect our margins and our net income, if any.
We will continue to increase our spending and investments in our business, including in organic development and growth of new businesses, strategic acquisitions and other initiatives. Investments in our business include:
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expanding and enhancing our core e-commerce offerings, including our marketplaces and new formats and features, our logistics network and capacities, our merchandising and supply chain capabilities, consumer services business, and international businesses; |
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supporting our merchants, acquiring and retaining users and enhancing consumer experience and user engagement; |
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strengthening and expanding various facilities and increasing our employee headcount; |
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researching and developing new technologies, including digital assets, and improving our technological infrastructure; and cloud computing capacity; |
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incubating new business initiatives. |
Although we believe these investments are crucial to our viability and future growth, they will have the effect of increasing our costs and lowering our margins and profit, and this effect may be significant in the short term and potentially over longer periods.
We intend to make strategic investments, acquisitions and joint ventures to further strengthen our business. We may make strategic investments, acquisitions and joint ventures in a range of areas either directly related to one or more of our businesses, or related to the infrastructure, technology, services or products that support our businesses and marketing platforms. Our strategic investments, acquisitions and joint ventures may adversely affect our financial results, at least in the short term. As a result of business or financial underperformance, regulatory scrutiny or compliance reasons, we may need to divest interests in, or terminate business cooperation with, businesses and entities in which we have invested capital and other resources, which may adversely affect our financial results, ability to conduct investments in similar businesses, reputation and growth prospects, as well as the trading prices of our securities. There can be no assurance that we will be able to grow our acquired or invested businesses, or realize returns, benefits of synergies and growth opportunities we expect in connection with these investments and acquisitions.
Failure to maintain or improve our technological infrastructure could harm our business and prospects.
We are in the process of upgrading our platforms to provide increased scale, improved performance, additional capacity and additional built-in functionality, including functionality related to security. Adopting new products and maintaining and upgrading our technology infrastructure require significant investments of time and resources. Any failure to maintain and improve our technology infrastructure could result in unanticipated system disruptions, slower response times, impaired user experience and delays in reporting accurate operating and financial information. If we experience problems with the functionality and effectiveness of our software, interfaces or platforms, or are unable to maintain and continuously improve our technology infrastructure to handle our business needs, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects, as well as our reputation and brand, could be materially and adversely affected.
In addition, our technology infrastructure and services incorporate third-party developed software, systems and technologies, as well as hardware purchased or commissioned from third-party and overseas suppliers. As our technology infrastructure and services expand and become increasingly complex, we face increasingly serious risks to the performance and security of our technology infrastructure and services that may be caused by these third-party developed components, including risks relating to incompatibilities with these components, service failures or delays or difficulties in integrating back-end procedures on hardware and software. We also need to continuously enhance our existing technology. Otherwise, we face the risk of our technology infrastructure becoming unstable and susceptible to security breaches. This instability or susceptibility could create serious challenges to the security and uninterrupted operation of our platforms and services, which would materially and adversely affect our business and reputation.
Product development is a long, expensive and uncertain process.
The development of our own branded range of satellite tracking devices is a costly, complex and time-consuming process, and the investment in product development often involves a long wait until a return, if any, is achieved on such investment. Investments in new technology and processes are inherently speculative. We have experienced numerous setbacks and delays in our research and development efforts and may encounter further obstacles in the course of the development of additional technologies and products. We may not be able to overcome these obstacles or may have to expend significant additional funds and time. Technical obstacles and challenges we encounter in our research and development process may result in delays in or abandonment of product commercialization, may substantially increase the costs of development, and may negatively affect our results of operations.
Concentration of ownership by our principal stockholders may result in control by such stockholders of the composition of our board of directors.
As of April 10, 2024, our existing principal stockholders, named executive officers, directors and their affiliates beneficially own approximately 63.7% of our outstanding shares of common stock, and our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Charles M. Fernandez will receive upon vesting, 200,000 shares of our common stock, which vests in one installment over the next six months, on June 2, 2024. In addition, such parties may acquire additional control by purchasing stock that we may issue in connection with our future fundraising efforts. As a result, these stockholders may now and in the future be able to exercise a significant level of control over all matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors. This control could have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control of our company or changes in management and will make the approval of certain transactions difficult or impossible without the support of these stockholders.
Successful technical development of our products does not guarantee successful commercialization.
We may successfully complete the technical development for one or all our product development programs, but still fail to develop a commercially successful product for several reasons, including among others the following:
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failure to obtain the required regulatory approvals for their use; |
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prohibitive production costs; |
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competing products; |
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lack of innovation of the product; |
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ineffective distribution and marketing; |
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failure to gain market acceptance; |
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lack of sufficient cooperation from our partners; and |
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demonstrations of the products not aligning with or meeting customer needs. |
Our success in the market for the products we develop will depend largely on our ability to prove our products’ capabilities. Upon demonstration, our satellite ground stations, and tracking devices may not have the capabilities they were designed to have or that we believed they would have. Furthermore, even if we do successfully demonstrate our products’ capabilities, potential customers may be more comfortable doing business with a larger, more established, more proven company than us. Moreover, competing products may prevent us from gaining wide market acceptance of our products. Significant revenue from new product investments may not be achieved for a number of years, if at all.
Public company compliance may make it more difficult to attract and retain officers and directors.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act and rules subsequently implemented by the SEC have required changes in corporate governance practices of public companies. As a public company, we expect these rules and regulations to increase our compliance costs in 2023 and beyond and to make certain activities more time consuming and costly. As a public company, we also expect that these rules and regulations may make it more difficult and expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance in the future and we may be required to accept reduced policy limits and coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain the same or similar coverage. As a result, it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified people to serve on our Board of Directors or as executive officers.
Conflicts of interest may arise between us and our directors and officers as a result of other business activities undertaken by such individuals.
We may be subject to various potential conflicts of interest because some of our directors and executive officers may be engaged in a range of business activities. In addition, our executive officers and directors may devote time to their outside business interests, so long as such activities do not materially or adversely interfere with their duties to us. In some cases, our executive officers and directors may have fiduciary obligations associated with these business interests that interfere with their ability to devote time to our business and affairs and that could adversely affect our operations. These business interests could require significant time and attention of our executive officers and directors.
In addition, we may also become involved in other transactions which conflict with the interests of our directors and the officers who may from time-to-time deal with persons, firms or institutions with which we may be dealing, or which may be seeking investments similar to those we desire. The interests of these persons could conflict with our interests. In addition, from time to time, these persons may be competing with us for available investment opportunities. Conflicts of interest, if any, will be subject to the procedures and remedies provided under applicable laws, regulations and stock market rules. In particular, in the event that such a conflict of interest arises at a meeting of our board of directors, a director who has such a conflict will abstain from voting for or against the approval of such transaction. In accordance with applicable laws, our directors are required to act honestly, in good faith and in our best interests.
Other companies may claim that we infringe their intellectual property, which could materially increase our costs and harm our ability to generate future revenue and profit.
We do not believe that we infringe the proprietary rights of any third party but claims of infringement are becoming increasingly common and third parties may assert infringement claims against us. It may be difficult or impossible to identify, prior to receipt of notice from a third party, the trade secrets, patent position or other intellectual property rights of a third party, either in the United States or in foreign jurisdictions. Any such assertion may result in litigation or may require us to obtain a license for the intellectual property rights of third parties. If we are required to obtain licenses to use any third-party technology, we would have to pay royalties, which may significantly reduce any profit on our products or may be prohibitively expensive and prevent us from continuing to use that technology. In addition, any such litigation, even if without merit, could be expensive and disruptive to our ability to generate revenue or enter new market opportunities. If any of our products were found to infringe other parties’ proprietary rights and we are unable to come to terms regarding a license with such parties, we may be forced to modify our products to make them non-infringing, to pay substantial damages to our end users to discontinue their use of or replace infringing technology sold to them with non-infringing technology, or to cease production of such products altogether.
We may not be able to protect our intellectual property rights.
We rely on a combination of trademark, fair trade practice, patent, copyright and trade secret protection laws, as well as confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions, to protect our intellectual property rights. We may not be able to effectively protect our intellectual property rights or to enforce our contractual rights. In addition, policing any unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult, time-consuming and costly and the steps we have taken may be inadequate to prevent the misappropriation of our intellectual property. If we resort to litigation to enforce our intellectual property rights, this litigation could result in substantial costs and a diversion of our managerial and financial resources.
There can be no assurance that we will prevail in any litigation. In addition, our trade secrets may be leaked or otherwise become available to, or be independently discovered by, our competitors. Any failure in protecting or enforcing our intellectual property rights could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Confidentiality agreements with employees and third parties may not prevent unauthorized disclosure of trade secrets and other proprietary information, and our inability to maintain the confidentiality of that information, due to unauthorized disclosure or use, or other event, could have a material adverse effect on our business.
In addition to the protection afforded by patents, we seek to rely on trade secret protection and confidentiality agreements to protect proprietary know-how that is not patentable or that we elect not to patent, processes for which patents are difficult to enforce, and any other elements of our product discovery and development processes that involve proprietary know-how, information, or technology that is not covered by patents. Trade secrets, however, may be difficult to protect. We seek to protect our proprietary processes, in part, by entering into confidentiality agreements with our employees, consultants, advisors, contractors and collaborators. Although we use reasonable efforts to protect our trade secrets, our employees, consultants, advisors, contractors, and collaborators might intentionally or inadvertently disclose our trade secret information to competitors. In addition, competitors may otherwise gain access to our trade secrets or independently develop substantially equivalent information and techniques. Furthermore, the laws of some foreign countries do not protect proprietary rights to the same extent or in the same manner as the laws of the United States. As a result, we may encounter significant problems in protecting and defending our intellectual property both in the United States and abroad. If we are unable to prevent unauthorized material disclosure of our intellectual property to third parties, or misappropriation of our intellectual property by third parties, we will not be able to establish or maintain a competitive advantage in our market, which could materially adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition.
Being a public company is expensive and administratively burdensome.
As a public reporting company, we are subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) and other federal securities laws, rules and regulations related thereto, including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Complying with these laws and regulations requires the time and attention of our Board of Directors and management and increases our expenses. We estimate the Company will incur approximately $200,000 to $300,000 annually in connection with being a public company.
Among other things, we are required to:
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maintain and evaluate a system of internal controls over financial reporting in compliance with the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the related rules and regulations of the SEC and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; |
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prepare and distribute periodic reports in compliance with our obligations under federal securities laws; |
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institute a more comprehensive compliance function, including with respect to corporate governance; and |
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involve, to a greater degree, our outside legal counsel and accountants in the above activities. |
The costs of preparing and filing annual and quarterly reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC and furnishing audited reports to stockholders are expensive and much greater than that of a privately-held company, and compliance with these rules and regulations may require us to hire additional financial reporting, internal controls and other finance personnel, and will involve a material increase in regulatory, legal and accounting expenses and the attention of management. There can be no assurance that we will be able to comply with the applicable regulations in a timely manner, if at all. In addition, being a public company makes it more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance. In the future, we may be required to accept reduced coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain this coverage.
We may fail to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and effective disclosure controls and procedures, and as a result, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results in a timely manner or prevent fraud, which may adversely affect investor confidence in our company.
We are required to comply with the SEC’s rules implementing Sections 302 and 404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which require management to certify financial and other information in our quarterly and annual reports and provide an annual management report on the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting. As a smaller reporting company, our independent registered public accounting firm will not be required to attest to the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404(b) until we are no longer a smaller reporting company. At such time, our independent registered public accounting firm may issue a report that is adverse in the event material weaknesses have been identified in our internal control over financial reporting.
To comply with the requirements of being a public company, we have undertaken and will need to undertake additional actions, such as implementing new internal controls and procedures and hiring additional accounting or internal audit staff. Any control system, no matter how well designed and operated, is based upon certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that its objectives will be met. Further, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to errors or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. Testing and maintaining internal control can divert our management’s attention from other matters that are important to the operation of our business. In addition, when evaluating our internal control over financial reporting, we may identify material weaknesses that we may not be able to remediate in time to meet the applicable deadlines imposed upon us for compliance with the requirements of Section 404. If we identify any material weaknesses in our internal controls over financial reporting or we are unable to comply with the requirements of Section 404 in a timely manner or assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to express an opinion as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting once we are no longer a smaller reporting company, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports. As a result, the market price of our common stock could be materially adversely affected.
We will become subject to a broad range of laws and regulations, and future laws and regulations may impose additional requirements and other obligations that could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as the trading prices of our securities.
The industries in which we plan to operate, including online and mobile commerce, digital media, and entertainment and other online content offerings, as well as certain important business processes, including those that may be deemed as relating to payment and settlement of funds, are highly regulated. Government authorities across the globe are likely to continue to issue new laws, rules and regulations and enhance enforcement of existing laws, rules and regulations in these industries. They have imposed, and may continue to impose, requirements or restrictions relating to, among other things, the provision of certain regulated products or services through platforms, new and additional licenses, permits and approvals, renewals and amendments of licenses, or governance or ownership structures, on us or certain of our businesses and our users. Failure to obtain and maintain such required licenses or approvals may materially and adversely affect our business.
If we are successful in implementing our business strategy we will generate and process a large amount of data, including personal data, and the improper use or disclosure of data could result in regulatory investigations and penalties, and harm our reputation and have a material adverse effect on the trading prices of our securities, our business and our prospects.
If we are successful in implementing our business strategy, we will generate and process a large amount of data. Our privacy policies concerning the collection, use and disclosure of personal data are posted on our platforms. We face risks inherent in handling and protecting large volumes of data, especially consumer data. We face several challenges relating to data from transactions and other activities on our platforms, including:
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protecting the data in and hosted on our system, including against attacks on our system or unauthorized use by outside parties or fraudulent behavior or improper use by our employees; |
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addressing concerns, challenges, negative publicity and litigation related to data privacy, collection, use and actual or perceived sharing for promotional and other purposes (including sharing among our own businesses, with business partners or regulators, and concerns among the public about the alleged discriminatory treatment adopted by Internet platforms based on user profile), safety, security and other factors that may arise from our existing businesses or new businesses and technologies, such as new forms of data (for example, biometric data, location information and other demographic information); and |
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complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations relating to the collection (from users and other third-party systems or sources), use, storage, transfer, disclosure and security of personal data, including requests from data subjects and regulatory and government authorities. |
Our business is subject to complex and evolving domestic and international laws and regulations regarding privacy and data protection. These laws and regulations can be complex and stringent, and many are subject to change and uncertain interpretation, which could result in claims, changes to our data and other business practices, regulatory investigations, penalties, increased cost of operations, or declines in user growth or engagement, or otherwise affect our business.
Regulatory authorities around the world have implemented and are considering further legislative and regulatory proposals concerning data protection. New laws and regulations that govern new areas of data protection or impose more stringent requirements may be introduced in jurisdictions where we may conduct business or may expand into. It is possible that existing or newly- introduced laws and regulations, or their interpretation, application or enforcement, could significantly affect the value of our data, force us to change our data and other business practices and cause us to incur significant compliance costs.
As we further expand our operations into international markets, we will be subject to additional laws in other jurisdictions where we operate and where our consumers, users, merchants, customers and other participants are located. The laws, rules and regulations of other jurisdictions may be more comprehensive, detailed and nuanced in their scope, and may impose requirements and penalties that conflict with, or are more stringent than, those to which we are currently subject. In addition, these laws, rules and regulations may restrict the transfer of data across jurisdictions, which could impose additional and substantial operational, administrative and compliance burdens on us, and may also restrict our business activities and expansion plans, as well as impede our data-driven business strategies. Complying with laws and regulations for an increasing number of jurisdictions could require significant resources and costs.
The nature of our business involves significant risks and uncertainties that may not be covered by insurance or indemnity.
We develop and sell products where insurance or indemnification may not be available, including:
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Designing and developing products using advanced and unproven technologies in intelligence and homeland security applications that are intended to operate in high demand, high risk situations; and |
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Designing and developing products to collect, distribute and analyze various types of information. |
Failure of certain of our products could result in loss of life or property damage. Certain products may raise questions with respect to issues of privacy rights, civil liberties, intellectual property, trespass, conversion and similar concepts, which may raise new legal issues. Indemnification to cover potential claims or liabilities resulting from a failure of technologies developed or deployed may be available in certain circumstances but not in others. We are not able to maintain insurance to protect against all operational risks and uncertainties. Substantial claims resulting from an accident, failure of our product, or liability arising from our products in excess of any indemnity or insurance coverage (or for which indemnity or insurance is not available or was not obtained) could harm our financial condition, cash flows, and operating results. Any accident, even if fully covered or insured, could negatively affect our reputation among our customers and the public, and make it more difficult for us to compete effectively.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, approximately 51.6% of our revenues are from sales of products on Amazon and any limitation or restriction, temporarily or otherwise, to sell on Amazon’s platform could have a material adverse impact to our business, results of operations, financial condition, and prospects.
Approximately 51.6% of our products are sold on Amazon and are subject to Amazon’s terms of service and various other Amazon seller policies that apply to third parties selling products on Amazon’s marketplace. Amazon’s terms of service provide, among other things, that it may terminate or suspend its agreement with any seller or any of its services being provided to a seller at any time and for any reason. In addition, if Amazon determines that any seller’s actions or performance, including ours, may result in violations of its terms or policies, or create other risks to Amazon or to third parties, then Amazon may in its sole discretion withhold any payments owed for as long as Amazon determines any related risk to Amazon or to third parties persist. Further, if Amazon determines that any seller’s, including our, accounts have been used to engage in deceptive, fraudulent or illegal activity, or that such accounts have repeatedly violated its policies, then Amazon may in its sole discretion permanently withhold any payments owed. In addition, Amazon in its sole discretion may suspend a seller account and product listings if Amazon determines that a seller has engaged in conduct that violates any of its policies. Any limitation or restriction on our ability to sell on Amazon’s platform could have a material impact on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects. We also rely on services provided by Amazon’s fulfillment platform which provides expedited shipping to the consumer, an important aspect in the buying decision for consumers. Any inability to market our products for sale with delivery could have a material impact on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects. Failure to remain compliant with the fulfillment practices on Amazon’s platform could have a material impact on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.
Risks Related to Our e-Commerce Business
Our sales may be impacted should there be a disruption of service to our Amazon or Alibaba online storefronts.
The Company’s Amazon online marketplaces represented approximately 51.6% and 54.3% of total sales for the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022, respectively. In July 2021 we commenced sales through the Alibaba storefront. These marketplaces will represent a significant portion of our sales in the foreseeable future. Should there be a disruption of Amazon or Alibaba services or our ability to maintain storefronts with Amazon or Alibaba, our sales will likely decrease, and we would have to seek other distribution methods to sell our products online, which may be costly. In addition, if and to the extent the cost structure of the Amazon marketplace listing changes, such an increase could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s sales through this platform.
Creating and maintaining a trusted status of our online marketing presence or ecosystem will be critical to our viability and growth, and any failure to do so could severely damage our reputation, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Any loss of trust in our online presence could harm our reputation, and could result in consumers, merchants, brands, retailers, intellectual property holders and other participants reducing their levels of activity, which could materially reduce our revenue and profitability, if any. Our ability to maintain trust in our online capabilities will be based in large part upon:
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the quality, value and functionality of products and services offered; |
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the reliability and integrity of our company and our e-commerce websites, as well as of the merchants, |
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software developers, logistics providers, service providers, intellectual property holders and other participants in our ecosystem; |
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our commitment to high levels of service; |
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the safety, security and integrity of the data on our systems, and those of other participants on our e-commerce websites; |
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the strength of our measures to protect consumers and intellectual property rights owners; and |
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our ability to provide reliable and trusted payment and escrow services through our arrangements with third party service providers. |
Our current plans contemplate that we will expand our online marketing presence primarily via the Alibaba ecosystem. Any termination or material change in our relationship with Amazon or Alibaba could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Any termination or material change in our relationship with Amazon or Alibaba could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. We expect that Alibaba will represent one of our primary online marketing channels. Any adverse development in our relationship with these online markets could result in an immediate and significant adverse impact in our online marketing presence, revenues, operating results and financial condition. It could also result in a loss of trust by consumers, merchants, brands, retailers, intellectual property holders and other participants reducing their levels of activity, which could further materially reduce our revenues and profitability, if any.
We may not be able to maintain or grow our revenue or our business.
Our revenue growth also depends on our ability to grow our core businesses, newly developed businesses, as well as businesses that we may acquire or which we may consolidate. We are exploring and will continue to explore in the future new business initiatives, including in industries and markets in which we have limited or no experience, as well as new business models, that may be untested. Developing new businesses, initiatives and models requires significant investments of time and resources, and may present new and difficult technological, operational and compliance challenges. Particularly in the e-commerce space, we face various challenges while facilitating the convergence of online and offline retail and digitalization of offline business operations. Many of these challenges may be specific to business areas with which we do not have sufficient experience. Also, as we grow our direct sales businesses, we face new and increased risks, such as risks relating to inventory procurement and management, including failure to stock sufficient inventory to meet demands or additional costs or write-offs resulting from overstocking, supply chain management, accounts receivable and related potential impairment charges, as well as new and heightened regulatory requirements and increased liabilities to which we are subject as operators of direct sales businesses, including those relating to consumer protection, customs and permits and licenses, and allegations of unfair business practices. Failure to adequately address these and other risks and challenges relating to our direct sales business may harm our relationship with customers and consumers, adversely affect our business and results of operations and subject us to regulatory scrutiny or liabilities. We may encounter difficulties or setbacks in the execution of various growth strategies, and those strategies may not generate the returns we expect within the timeframe we anticipate, or at all. In addition, our overall revenue growth may slow, or our revenues may decline for other reasons, including increasing customer acquisition costs, increasing competition, disruptions to the global economy from pandemics, natural disasters or other events, as well as changes in the geopolitical landscape, government policies or general economic conditions. As our revenue grows to a higher base level, our revenue growth rate may slow in the future.
If we are unable to compete effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.
We face intense competition from established Internet companies, as well as from global and regional e-commerce players. These areas of our business are subject to rapid market change, the introduction of new business models, and the entry of new and well-funded competitors. Increased investments made and lower prices offered by our competitors may require us to divert significant managerial, financial and human resources to remain competitive, and ultimately may reduce our market share and negatively impact the profitability of our business.
Our ability to compete depends on several factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including alliances, acquisitions or consolidations within our industries that may result in stronger competitors, technological advances, shifts in customer preferences and changes in the regulatory environment in the markets we operate. Existing and new competitors may leverage their established platforms or market positions, or introduce innovative business models or technologies, to launch highly engaging content, products or services that may attract a large user base and achieve rapid growth, which may make it more challenging for us to acquire new customers and materially and adversely affect our business expansion and results of operations.
If we are not able to compete effectively, the level of economic activity and user engagement in our ecosystem may decrease and our market share and profitability may be negatively affected, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as our reputation and brand.
We may not be able to maintain and improve our online marketing, which could negatively affect our business and prospects.
Our ability to maintain a healthy and vibrant ecosystem among consumers, merchants, brands, retailers, Intellectual Property holders and other participants is critical to our success. The extent to which we are able to create, maintain and strengthen these market channels depends on our ability to:
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offer secure and open e-commerce websites for all participants and balance the interests of these participants; |
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provide a wide range of high-quality product offerings to consumers; |
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attract and retain a wide range of consumers, merchants, brands and retailers; |
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provide effective technologies, infrastructure and services that meet the evolving needs of consumers, merchants, brands, retailers and other ecosystem participants; |
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arrange secure and trusted payment settlement services; |
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address user concerns with respect to data security and privacy; |
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improve our logistics data and coordinate fulfillment and delivery services with logistics service providers; |
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attract and retain third-party service providers that are able to provide quality services on commercially reasonable terms to our merchants, brands, retailers and other ecosystem participants; |
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maintain the quality of our customer service; and |
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continue adapting to the changing demands of the market. |
In addition, changes we make to our current operations to enhance and improve our online presence or to comply with regulatory requirements may be viewed positively from one participant group’s perspective, such as consumers, but may have negative effects from another group’s perspective, such as merchants. If we fail to balance the interests of all participants in our ecosystem, consumers, merchants, brands, retailers and other participants may spend less time, mind share and resources on our platforms and may conduct fewer transactions or use alternative platforms, any of which could result in a material decrease in our revenue and net income.
If we are not able to continue to innovate or if we fail to adapt to changes in our various industries, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.
The e-commerce business is subject to rapidly changing technology, evolving industry standards, new mobile apps and protocols, new products and services, new media and entertainment content – including user-generated content – and changing user demands and trends. Furthermore, our domestic and international competitors are continuously developing innovations in personalized search and recommendation, online shopping and marketing, communications, social networking, entertainment, logistics and other services, to enhance user experience. The changes and developments taking place in our industry may also require us to re-evaluate our business model and adopt significant changes to our long-term strategies and business plans. Our failure to innovate and adapt to these changes and developments in a timely manner could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Even if we timely innovate and adopt changes in our strategies and plans, we may nevertheless fail to realize the anticipated benefits of these changes or even generate lower levels of revenue as a result.
Our failure to manage the significant management, operational and financial challenges involved in growing our business and operations could harm us.
If we are successful in implementing our plans, our business will become increasingly complex as the scale, diversity and geographic coverage of our business and our workforce continue to expand through both organic growth and acquisitions. This expansion will place a significant strain on our management, operational and financial resources. The challenges involved in expanding our businesses require our employees to handle new and expanded responsibilities and duties. If our employees fail to adapt to the expansion or if we are unsuccessful in hiring, training, managing and integrating new employees or retraining and expanding the roles of our existing employees, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially harmed. Moreover, our current and planned staffing, systems, policies, procedures and controls may not be adequate to support our future operations. To effectively manage continuing expansion and growth of our operations and workforce, we will need to continue to improve our personnel management, transaction processing, operational and financial systems, policies, procedures and controls, which could be particularly challenging as we acquire new operations with different and incompatible systems in new industries or geographic areas. These efforts will require significant managerial, financial and human resources. There can be no assurance that we will be able to effectively manage our growth or to implement all these systems, policies, procedures and control measures successfully. If we are not able to manage our growth effectively, our business and prospects may be materially and adversely affected.
We face risks relating to our acquisitions, investments and alliances.
We expect to evaluate and consider a wide array of potential strategic transactions as part of our overall business strategy, including business combinations, acquisitions of businesses, technologies, services, products and other assets, as well as strategic investments, joint ventures, licenses and alliances. At any given time, we may be engaged in discussing or negotiating a range of these types of transactions. These transactions involve significant challenges and risks, including:
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difficulties in, and significant and unanticipated additional costs and expenses resulting from, integrating into our business the large number of personnel, operations, products, services, technology, internal controls and financial reporting of the businesses we acquire; |
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disruption of our ongoing business, distraction of and significant time and attention required from our management and employees and increases in our expenses; |
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departure of skilled professionals and proven management teams of acquired businesses, as well as the loss of established client relationships of those businesses we invest in or acquire; |
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for investments over which we may not obtain management and operational control, we may lack influence over the controlling partners or shareholders, or may not have aligned interests with those of our partners or other shareholders; |
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additional or conflicting regulatory requirements, heightened restrictions on and scrutiny of investments, acquisitions and foreign ownership in other jurisdictions, on national security grounds or for other reasons, regulatory requirements such as filings and approvals under the anti-monopoly and competition laws, rules and regulations, the risk that acquisitions or investments may fail to close, due to political and regulatory challenges or protectionist policies, as well as related compliance and publicity risks; |
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actual or alleged misconduct, unscrupulous business practices or non-compliance by us or any company we acquire or invest in or by its affiliates or current or former employees, whether before, during or after our acquisition or investments; |
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difficulties in identifying and selecting appropriate targets and strategic partners, including potential loss of opportunities for strategic transactions with competitors of our investee companies and strategic partners; and |
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difficulties in conducting sufficient and effective due diligence on potential targets and unforeseen or hidden liabilities or additional incidences of non-compliance, operating losses, costs and expenses that may adversely affect us following our acquisitions or investments or other strategic transactions. |
These and other risks could lead to negative publicity, increased regulatory scrutiny, litigation, government inquiries, investigations, actions or penalties against us and the companies we invest in or acquire on the ground of non-compliance with regulatory requirements, or even against our other businesses, and may force us to incur significant additional expenses and allocate significant management and human resources to rectify or improve these companies’ corporate governance standards, disclosure controls and procedures or internal controls and systems. As a result, we may experience significant difficulties and uncertainties carrying out investments and acquisitions, and our growth strategy, reputation and/or the trading prices of our securities may be materially and adversely affected.
We face challenges in expanding our international and cross-border businesses and operations.
In addition to risks that generally apply to our acquisitions and investments, we face risks associated with expanding into an increasing number of markets where we have limited or no experience, we may be less well-known or have fewer local resources and we may need to localize our business practices, culture and operations. We also face protectionist or national security policies that could, among other things, hinder our ability to execute our business strategies and put us at a competitive disadvantage relative to domestic companies in other jurisdictions.
In addition, compliance with cross-border e-commerce tax laws that apply to our businesses will also affect a number of our businesses, increase our compliance costs and subject us to additional risks. Failure to manage these risks and challenges could negatively affect our ability to expand our international and cross-border businesses and operations as well as materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are heavily reliant on Charles Fernandez, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and the departure or loss of Mr. Fernandez could disrupt our business.
The Company depends heavily on the continued efforts of Charles Fernandez, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Fernandez’s services are essential to the Company’s strategic vision and would be difficult to replace. The departure or loss of Mr. Fernandez, or the inability to timely hire and retain a qualified replacement, could negatively impact the Company’s ability to manage its business.
We are heavily reliant on David Phipps, our President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations and a director, and the departure or loss of David Phipps could disrupt our business.
The Company depends heavily on the continued efforts of David Phipps, our President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations and a director. Mr. Phipps is the founder of Global Telesat Communications LTD (“GTC”) and is essential to the Company’s day-to-day operations and would be difficult to replace. The departure or loss of Mr. Phipps, or the inability to timely hire and retain a qualified replacement, could negatively impact the Company’s ability to manage its business.
If we are unable to recruit and retain key management, technical and sales personnel, our business would be negatively affected.
For our business to be successful, we need to attract and retain highly qualified technical, management and sales personnel. The failure to recruit additional key personnel when needed with specific qualifications and on acceptable terms or to retain good relationships with our partners might impede our ability to continue to develop, commercialize and sell our products. To the extent the demand for skilled personnel exceeds supply, we could experience higher labor, recruiting and training costs in order to attract and retain such employees. We face competition for qualified personnel from other companies with significantly more resources available to them and thus may not be able to attract the level of personnel needed for our business to succeed.
We depend on key management as well as experienced and capable personnel generally, and any failure to attract, motivate and retain our staff could severely hinder our ability to maintain and grow our business.
Our future success is significantly dependent upon the continued service of our key executives and other key employees, particularly in new business areas we are expanding into. If we lose the services of any member of management or key personnel, we may not be able to locate suitable or qualified replacements and may incur additional expenses to recruit and train new staff.
As our business develops and evolves, it may become difficult for us to continue to retain our employees. A number of our employees, including many members of management, may choose to pursue other opportunities outside of us. If we are unable to motivate or retain these employees, our business may be severely disrupted, and our prospects could suffer.
The size and scope of our ecosystem also requires us to hire and retain a wide range of capable and experienced personnel who can adapt to a dynamic, competitive and challenging business environment. We will need to continue to attract and retain experienced and capable personnel at all levels, including members of management, as we expand our business and operations. Our various incentive initiatives may not be sufficient to retain our management and employees. Demand for talent in our industry is intense, and the availability of suitable and qualified candidates is limited. Competing demand for qualified personnel could cause us to offer higher compensation and other benefits to attract and retain them. Even if we were to offer higher compensation and other benefits, there can be no assurance that these individuals will choose to join or continue to work for us. Any failure to attract or retain key management and personnel could severely disrupt our business and growth.
Failure to deal effectively with fraudulent or illegal activities by our employees, business partners or service providers would harm our business.
Illegal, fraudulent, corrupt or collusive activities or misconduct, whether actual or perceived, by our employees could subject us to liability or negative publicity, which could severely damage our brand and reputation. We will implement internal controls and policies with regard to the review and approval of merchant accounts, interactions with business partners and government officials, account management, sales activities, data security and other relevant matters. However, there can be no assurance that our controls and policies will prevent fraud, corrupt or illegal activity or misconduct by our employees or that similar incidents will not occur in the future. As we expand our operations, in particular our businesses that provide services to governments and public institutions, we are subject to additional internal control and compliance requirements relating to corrupt and other illegal practices by our employees, and we may also be held liable for misconduct by our business partners and service providers. Failure to comply or ensure our employees, business partners and service providers to comply with these requirements, whether alleged or actual, could subject us to regulatory investigations and liabilities, which would materially and adversely affect our business operations, customer relationships, reputation and the trading price of our securities.
If the logistics service providers used by our merchants fail to provide reliable logistics services, our business and prospects, as well as our financial condition and results of operations, may be materially and adversely affected.
Interruptions to or failures in logistics services could prevent the timely or proper delivery of products to consumers, which would negatively impact on our competitive position as well as harm the reputation of our ecosystem and the businesses we operate. These interruptions or failures may be due to events that are beyond the control of any of these logistics service providers, such as inclement weather, natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, other pandemics or epidemics, accidents, transportation disruptions, including special or temporary restrictions or closings of facilities or transportation networks due to regulatory or political reasons, or labor unrest or shortages. These logistics services could also be affected or interrupted by business disputes, industry consolidation, insolvency or government shutdowns. The merchants in our ecosystem may not be able to find alternative logistics service providers to provide logistics services in a timely and reliable manner, or at all. If the products sold by merchants in our ecosystem are not delivered in proper condition, on a timely basis or at shipping rates that are commercially acceptable to marketplace participants, our business and prospects, as well as our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Failure to deal effectively with any fraud perpetrated and fictitious transactions conducted in our ecosystem, and other sources of customer dissatisfaction, would harm our business.
Although we are implementing various measures to detect and reduce the occurrence of fraudulent activities in connection with other businesses we operate, there can be no assurance that these measures will be effective in combating fraudulent transactions or improving overall satisfaction among our consumers, merchants and other participants. Additional measures that we take to address fraud could also negatively affect the attractiveness of our marketplaces and other businesses we operate to consumers or merchants. In addition, merchants in our marketplaces contribute to a fund to provide consumer protection guarantees. If our merchants do not perform their obligations under these programs, we may use funds that have been deposited by merchants in a consumer protection fund to compensate consumers. If the amounts in the fund are not sufficient, we may choose to compensate consumers for losses, although currently we are not legally obligated to do so. If, as a result of regulatory developments, we are required to compensate consumers, we will incur additional expenses. Although we have recourse against our merchants for any amounts we incur, there can be no assurance that we would be able to collect these amounts from our merchants.
Government authorities, industry watchdog organizations or other third parties may issue reports or engage in other forms of public communications concerning alleged fraudulent or deceptive conduct on our platforms. Negative publicity and user sentiment generated as a result of these reports or allegations could severely diminish consumer confidence in and use of our services, reduce our ability to attract new or retain current merchants, consumers and other participants, damage our reputation, result in shareholder or other litigation, diminish the value of our brand, and materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our e-commerce platforms could be disrupted by network interruptions.
Our e-commerce platforms depend on the efficient and uninterrupted operation of our computer and communications systems. System interruptions and delays may prevent us from efficiently processing the large volume of transactions on our marketplaces and other businesses we operate.
Despite any precautions we may take, the occurrence of a natural disaster or other unanticipated problems at our facilities, including power outages, system failures, telecommunications delays or failures, construction accidents, break-ins to IT systems, computer viruses or human errors, could result in delays in or temporary outages of our platforms or services, loss of our, consumers’ and customers’ data and business interruption for us and our customers. Any of these events could damage our reputation, significantly disrupt our operations and the operations of the participants in our ecosystem and subject us to liability, heightened regulatory scrutiny and increased costs, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Natural disasters or terrorist attacks could have an adverse effect on our business.
Natural disasters, terrorist acts or acts of war may cause equipment failures or disrupt our systems and operations. A failure to protect the privacy of customer and employee confidential data against breaches of network or IT security could result in damage to our reputation.
Security breaches and attacks against our systems and network, and any potentially resulting breach or failure to otherwise protect personal, confidential and proprietary information, could damage our reputation and negatively impact our business, as well as materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Our cybersecurity measures may not detect, prevent or control all attempts to compromise our systems or risks to our systems, including distributed denial-of-service attacks, viruses, Trojan horses, malicious software, break-ins, phishing attacks, third-party manipulation, security breaches, employee misconduct or negligence or other attacks, risks, data leakage and similar disruptions that may jeopardize the security of data stored in and transmitted by our systems or that we otherwise maintain. Breaches or failures of our cybersecurity measures could result in unauthorized access to our systems, misappropriation of information or data, deletion or modification of user information, or denial-of-service or other interruptions to our business operations. In addition, breaches or failures of the systems and cybersecurity measures of our third-party service providers could also result in unauthorized access to our data and user information. As techniques used to obtain unauthorized access to or sabotage systems change frequently and may not be known until launched against us or our third-party service providers, there can be no assurance that we will be able to anticipate, or implement adequate measures to protect against, these attacks. Moreover, if the security of domain names is compromised, we will be unable to use the domain names in our business operations, which could materially and adversely affect our business operations, reputation and brand image. If we fail to implement adequate encryption of data transmitted through the networks of the telecommunications and Internet operators we rely upon, there is a risk that telecommunications and Internet operators or their business partners may misappropriate our data, which could materially and adversely affect our business operations and reputation.
Non-compliance with, or changes in, the legal and regulatory environment in the countries in which we operate could increase our costs or reduce our net operating revenues.
Our business is subject to various laws and regulations in the US and in the countries throughout the world in which we do business, including laws and regulations relating to commerce, intellectual property, trade, environmental, health and safety, commerce and contracts, privacy and communications, consumer protection, web services, tax, and state corporate laws and securities laws; and specifically in the communications equipment industry, many of which are still evolving and could be interpreted in ways that could harm our business. There is no assurance that we will be completely effective in ensuring our compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Changes in applicable laws or regulations or evolving interpretations thereof, including increased government regulations, may result in increased compliance costs, capital expenditures and other financial obligations for us and could affect our profitability or impede the production or distribution of our products, which could affect our net operating revenues.
Tightening of tax compliance efforts that affect our merchants could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Tax legislation relating to the ecosystem is still developing. Governments may promulgate or strengthen the implementation of tax regulations that impose obligations on e-commerce companies, which could increase the costs to consumers and merchants and make our platforms less competitive in these jurisdictions. Governments may require e-commerce companies to assist in the enforcement of tax registration requirements and the collection of taxes with respect to the revenue or profit generated by merchants from transactions conducted on their platforms. We may also be requested by tax authorities to supply information about our merchants, such as transaction records and bank account information, and assist in the enforcement of other tax regulations, including the payment and withholding obligations against our merchants. As a result of more stringent tax compliance requirements and liabilities, we may lose existing merchants and potential merchants might not be willing to open storefronts on our marketplaces, which could in turn negatively affect us. Stricter tax enforcement by tax authorities may also reduce the activities by merchants on our platforms and result in liability to us. Any heightened tax law enforcement against participants in our marketing platforms (including imposition of reporting or withholding obligations on operators of marketplaces with respect to VAT of merchants and stricter tax enforcement against merchants generally) could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We may be subject to claims under consumer protection laws, including health and safety claims and product liability claims, if property or people are harmed by the products and services sold through our platforms.
Government authorities place high importance on consumer protection. Moreover, as part of our growth strategy, we expect to increase our focus on food, food delivery, food supplements and beverages, mother care, cosmetics, baby care, pharmaceutical and healthcare products and services, as well as electronics products, both as a platform operator and as part of our directly operated business. We have also invested in companies involved in these sectors. These activities could pose increasing challenges to our internal control and compliance systems and procedures, including our control over and management of third-party service personnel, and expose us to substantial increasing liability, negative publicity and reputational damage arising from consumer complaints, harms to personal health or safety or accidents involving products or services offered through our platforms or provided by us.
Operators of e-commerce platforms are subject to certain provisions of consumer protection laws even where the operator is not the merchant of the product or service purchased by the consumer. In addition, if we do not take appropriate remedial action against merchants or service providers for actions, they engage in that we know, or should have known, would infringe upon the rights and interests of consumers, we may be held jointly liable for infringement alongside the merchant or service provider.
We may also face increasing scrutiny from consumer protection regulators and activists, as well as increasingly become a target for litigation, in the United States, Europe and other jurisdictions.
Consumer complaints and associated negative publicity could materially and adversely harm our reputation and affect our business expansion. Claims brought against us under consumer protection laws, even if unsuccessful, could result in significant expenditure of funds and diversion of management time and resources, which could materially and adversely affect our business operations, net income and profitability.
Our business activities may be subject to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), the UK Bribery Act 2010 (“UK Bribery Act”), and other similar anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws of other countries in which we operate.
We have conducted and have ongoing business operations in international locations, and may in the future initiate business operations in additional countries other than the U.S. Our business activities may be subject to the FCPA, the UK Bribery Act and other similar anti-bribery or anti-corruption laws, regulations or rules of other countries in which we operate. The FCPA generally prohibits offering, promising, giving or authorizing others to give anything of value, either directly or indirectly, to a non-U.S. government official in order to influence official action or otherwise obtain or retain business. The FCPA also requires public companies to make and keep books and records that accurately and fairly reflect the transactions of the corporation and to devise and maintain an adequate system of internal accounting controls. Our business is regulated and therefore involves interaction with public officials, including officials of non-U.S. governments. There is no certainty that all of our employees, agents or contractors, or those of our affiliates, will comply with all applicable laws and regulations, particularly given the high level of complexity of these laws. Violations of these laws and regulations could result in fines, criminal sanctions against us, our officers or our employees, the closing down of our facilities, requirements to obtain export licenses, cessation of business activities in sanctioned countries, implementation of compliance programs and prohibitions on the conduct of our business. Any such violations could include prohibitions on our ability to offer our products in one or more countries and could materially damage our reputation, our brand, our international expansion efforts, our ability to attract and retain employees and our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition.
Our reputation, our brand and our business may be harmed by aggressive marketing and communications strategies of our competitors.
Due to intense competition in our industry, we have been and may be the target of incomplete, inaccurate and false statements and complaints about us and our products and services that could damage our reputation and brand and materially deter consumers and customers from spending in our ecosystem. In addition, competitors have used, and may continue to use, methods such as lodging complaints with regulators, initiating frivolous and nuisance lawsuits, and other forms of attack litigation and “lawfare” that attempt to harm our reputation and brand, hinder our operations, force us to expend resources on responding to and defending against these claims, and otherwise gain a competitive advantage over us by means of litigious and accusatory behavior. Our ability to respond on share price-sensitive information to our competitors’ misleading marketing efforts, including lawfare, may be limited during our self-imposed quiet periods around quarter ends consistent with our internal policies or due to legal prohibitions on permissible public communications by us during certain other periods.
Risks Related to Doing Business in China
We contemplate that our business expansion, if successful, will result in an increase in the business we do in China. Changes in China’s economic, political or social conditions or government policies could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions and results of operations.
Currently we do not have operations in China. However, as our e-commerce business expands, we expect to market our products and services in China, and perhaps establish operations in China at a future time, all of which would expose our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations to an increasingly significant extent to political, economic and social conditions in China generally.
The Chinese economy differs from the economies of most developed countries in many respects, including the degree of government involvement, level of development, growth rate, control of foreign exchange and allocation of resources. Although the Chinese government has implemented measures emphasizing the utilization of market forces for economic reform, the reduction of state ownership of productive assets and the establishment of improved corporate governance in business enterprises, a substantial portion of productive assets in China are still owned or controlled by the government. In addition, the Chinese government continues to play a significant role in regulating industry development by imposing industrial policies. The Chinese government also exercises significant control over China’s economic growth by allocating resources, controlling payment of foreign currency-denominated obligations, setting monetary policy and providing preferential treatment to industries or companies.
While the Chinese economy has experienced significant growth over the past decades, growth has been uneven, both geographically and in various sectors of the economy. The Chinese government has implemented various measures to encourage economic growth and guide the allocation of resources. Some of these measures may benefit the overall Chinese economy but may have a negative effect on us. For example, our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected by government control over capital investments or changes in tax regulations.
The growth rate of the Chinese economy has gradually slowed since 2010. Any prolonged slowdown in the Chinese economy may reduce the demand for our products and services and materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Uncertainties with respect to the PRC legal system could adversely affect us.
The Peoples Republic of China (“PRC” or “China”) legal system is a civil law system based on written statutes, where prior court decisions have limited precedential value. The PRC legal system is evolving rapidly, and the interpretations of many laws, regulations and rules may contain inconsistencies and enforcement of these laws, regulations and rules involves uncertainties. Although we have taken measures to comply with the laws and regulations applicable to our business operations and to avoid conducting any non-compliant activities under these laws and regulations, the PRC governmental authorities may promulgate new laws and regulations regulating our business. Moreover, developments in our industry may lead to changes in PRC laws, regulations and policies or in the interpretation and application of existing laws, regulations and policies. As a result, we may be required by the regulators to upgrade the licenses or permits we may obtain, to obtain additional licenses, permits, approvals, to complete additional filings or registrations for the services we provide, or to modify our business practices. Any failure to upgrade, obtain or maintain such licenses, permits, filings or approvals or requirement to modify our business practices may subject us to various penalties, including, among others, the confiscation of revenues and imposition of fines. We cannot assure you that our business operations would not be deemed to violate any existing or future PRC laws or regulations, which in turn may limit or restrict us, and could materially and adversely affect our business and operations.
From time to time, we may have to resort to administrative and court proceedings to enforce our legal rights. However, since PRC judicial and administrative authorities have significant discretion in interpreting and implementing statutory and contractual terms, it may be more difficult to predict the outcome of a judicial or administrative proceeding than in more developed legal systems. These uncertainties may impede our ability to enforce the contracts we have entered and could materially and adversely affect our business and the results of operations.
Furthermore, the PRC legal system is based, in part, on government policies and internal rules, some of which are not published in a timely manner, or at all, but which may have retroactive effect. As a result, we may not always be aware of any potential violation of these policies and rules. Such unpredictability regarding our contractual, property (including intellectual property) and procedural rights could adversely affect our business and impede our ability to continue our operations.
Recent litigation and negative publicity surrounding China-based companies listed in the United States may negatively impact the trading price of our securities.
We believe that recent litigation and negative publicity surrounding companies with operations in China that are listed in the United States have negatively impacted the stock prices of these companies. Certain politicians in the United States have publicly warned investors to shun China-based companies listed in the United States. The SEC and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), or the PCAOB, also issued a joint statement on April 21, 2020, reiterating the disclosure, financial reporting and other risks involved in the investments in companies that are based in emerging markets as well as the limited remedies available to investors who might take legal action against such companies. Furthermore, various equity-based research organizations have recently published reports on China-based companies after examining their corporate governance practices, related party transactions, sales practices and financial statements, and these reports have led to special investigations and listing suspensions on U.S. national exchanges. Any similar scrutiny on us, regardless of its lack of merit, could cause the market price of our securities to fall, divert management resources and energy, cause us to incur expenses in defending ourselves against rumors, and increase the premiums we pay for director and officer insurance.
Fluctuations in exchange rates could have a material and adverse effect on the results of our operations and the value of your investment.
The conversion of Renminbi, the official currency of China, into foreign currencies, including U.S. dollars, is based on rates set by the People’s Bank of China. The Renminbi has fluctuated against the U.S. dollar, at times significantly and unpredictably. The value of Renminbi against the U.S. dollar and other currencies is affected by changes in China’s political and economic conditions and by China’s foreign exchange policies, among other things. We cannot assure you that Renminbi will not appreciate or depreciate significantly in value against the U.S. dollar in the future. It is difficult to predict how market forces or PRC, or U.S. government policy may impact the exchange rate between Renminbi and the U.S. dollar in the future.
Any significant appreciation or depreciation of Renminbi may materially and adversely affect our revenues, earnings and financial position, and the value of our securities. For example, to the extent that we need to convert Renminbi we receive in payment for products and services into U.S. dollars to pay our operating expenses, depreciation of Renminbi against the U.S. dollar would have an adverse effect on the amount of the U.S. dollars we would receive from the conversion. Conversely, a significant depreciation of Renminbi against the U.S. dollar may significantly reduce the U.S. dollar equivalent of our earnings, which in turn could adversely affect the price of our securities.
In addition, our currency exchange losses may be magnified by PRC exchange control regulations that restrict our ability to convert Renminbi into other currencies, such as the U.S. dollar. As a result, fluctuations in exchange rates may have a material adverse effect on your investment.
Governmental control of currency conversion may limit our ability to utilize our revenues effectively and affect the value of your investment.
The PRC government imposes controls on the convertibility of the RMB into foreign currencies and, in certain cases, the remittance of currency out of China. Approval from or registration with appropriate government authorities or delegated banks is required where RMB is to be converted into foreign currency and remitted out of China to pay capital expenses such as the repayment of loans denominated in foreign currencies. The PRC government may also at its discretion restrict access in the future to foreign currencies for current account transactions. If the foreign exchange control system prevents us from obtaining sufficient currency to satisfy our US or PRC currency demands, our operations could be adversely affected.
Risks Related to Our Healthcare Business
We derive a significant portion of our sales from prescription drug sales reimbursed by pharmacy benefit management companies.
We derive a significant portion of our sales from prescription drug sales reimbursed through prescription drug plans administered by PBM companies. PBM companies typically administer multiple prescription drug plans that expire at various times and provide for varying reimbursement rates. There can be no assurance that we will continue to participate in any PBM network at any future time. If our participation in the prescription drug programs administered by one or more of the large PBM companies is restricted or terminated, we expect that our sales would be adversely affected, at least in the short-term. The Company or the PBM may terminate the network participation agreement at any time by way of advance notice to the other party. If we are unable to replace any such lost sales, either through an increase in other sales or through a resumption of participation in those plans, our operating results may be materially adversely affected. When we exit a pharmacy provider network and later resume network participation, there can be no assurance that we will achieve any level of business on any pace, or that all clients of the PBM sponsor of the network will choose to include us again in their pharmacy network initially or at all. In addition, in such circumstances we may incur increased marketing and other costs about initiatives to regain former patients and attract new patients covered by in-network plans.
Efforts to reduce reimbursement levels and alter health care financing practices could adversely affect our businesses.
The continued efforts of health maintenance organizations, managed care organizations, other companies, government entities, and other third-party payors to reduce prescription drug costs and pharmacy reimbursement rates may impact our profitability. Increased utilization of generic pharmaceuticals, which normally yield a higher gross profit rate than equivalent brand-named drugs, has resulted in a decrease in reimbursement payments to retail and mail order pharmacies for generic drugs through the imposition by third-party payors of generic effective rates that have caused a reduction in the generic profit rate. We expect pricing pressures from third-party payors to continue given the high and increasing costs of specialty drugs. As a result of this industry-wide pressure, we also may see profit margins on our contracts continue to compress, which may adversely affect our profitability.
PBM fees, including Direct and Indirect Remuneration (“DIR”) fees, transaction charges and network access fees, applied significant downward pressure on our profitability. DIR fees are often calculated and charged several months after adjudication of a claim, which adversely impacts our profitability. These fees lack transparency and are extremely difficult to predict and accrue. DIR fees are sometimes retroactively “clawed back” by the PBMs with little or no warning at the end of a quarter, which has a significant downward effect on our gross margins.
Retroactive contractual adjustments may be imposed on the pharmacies through execution of new contracts between pharmacy services administration organizations and PBMs with retroactive effectiveness. These contractual adjustments typically impose new lowered effective rate calculations on previously dispensed medications resulting in a PBM overpayment, which is later recouped with or without notice to the pharmacy. DIR fees and other PBM fees are generally not disclosed at adjudication and may change throughout the year. These adjustments and the resultant fees may not be predictable or avoidable and can adversely affect our revenues, cash flow, and profitability.
In addition, during the past several years, the U.S. health care industry has been subject to an increase in governmental regulation at both the federal and state levels. Efforts to control health care costs, including prescription drug costs, are underway at the federal and state government levels. Changing political, economic, and regulatory influences may affect health care financing and reimbursement practices. If the current health care financing and reimbursement system changes significantly, our business, financial position and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
Quality measurement networks have a significant impact on our revenues. Quality measurement networks can be, but are not always, tied to DIR fees collected by PBMs. These networks designate specific metrics through which pharmacy performance is assessed. These metrics are disclosed along with benchmark guidance for quality or superior performance, which can lead to a return of the DIR fees by the PBMs in the form of performance bonuses. Failure to meet quality measures can result in loss of DIR fees collected and loss of PBM relationship. There is no guarantee that we will be successful in meeting quality review standards. Quality measurement networks are increasingly rigorous and can be based on comparative success against other pharmacies in the network. If other pharmacies out-perform our pharmacy or if we fail to meet quality metrics, our profitability can be adversely affected.
A slowdown in the frequency and rate of the introduction of new prescription drugs as well as generic alternatives to brand name prescription products could adversely affect our business, financial position, and results of operations.
The profitability of retail pharmacy businesses is dependent upon the utilization of prescription drug products. Generally, our pharmacies receive greater profit from generic drugs. Utilization trends are affected by the introduction of new and successful prescription pharmaceuticals as well as lower priced generic alternatives to existing brand name products. Accordingly, a slowdown in the introduction of new and successful prescription pharmaceuticals and/or generic alternatives could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations.
Uncertainty regarding the impact of Medicare Part D may adversely affect our business, financial position and our results of operations.
Since its inception in 2006, the Medicare drug benefit has resulted in increased utilization and decreased pharmacy gross margin rates as higher margin business, such as cash and state Medicaid customers, migrated to Medicare Part D coverage. To the extent this occurs, the adverse effects of the Medicare drug benefit may outweigh any opportunities for new business generated by the Medicare drug benefit. In addition, if the government alters Medicare program requirements or reduces funding because of the higher-than-anticipated cost to taxpayers of the Medicare drug benefit or for other reasons; or if we fail to design and maintain programs that are attractive to Medicare participants, our Medicare Part D services and the ability to expand our Medicare Part D services could be materially and adversely affected, and our business, financial position and results of operations may be adversely affected.
Unexpected safety or efficacy concerns may arise from pharmaceutical products.
Unexpected safety or efficacy concerns can arise with respect to pharmaceutical drugs dispensed at our pharmacies, whether or not scientifically justified, leading to product recalls, withdrawals or declining sales. If we fail to or do not promptly withdraw pharmaceutical drugs upon a recall by a drug manufacturer, our business and results of operations could be negatively impacted by reversals of pharmacy billings that will result in loss of revenue.
Prescription volumes may decline, and our net revenues and ability to generate earnings may be negatively impacted, if products are withdrawn from the market or if increased safety risk profiles of specific drugs result in utilization decreases.
We dispense significant volumes of drugs from our pharmacies. These volumes are the basis for our net revenues. When increased safety risk profiles of specific drugs or classes of drugs result in utilization decreases, physicians may cease writing or reduce the numbers of prescriptions written for these drugs. Additionally, negative press regarding drugs with higher safety risk profiles may result in reduced consumer demand for such drugs. On occasion, products are withdrawn by their manufacturers. In cases where there are no acceptable prescription drug equivalents or alternatives for these prescription drugs, our volumes, net revenues, profitability, and cash flows may decline.
Certain risks are inherent in providing pharmacy services; our insurance may not be adequate to cover any claims against us.
Pharmacies are exposed to risks inherent in the packaging and distribution of pharmaceutical products, such as with respect to improper filling of prescriptions, labeling of prescriptions, adequacy of warnings, unintentional distribution of counterfeit drugs and expiration of drugs. In addition, federal and state laws that require our pharmacists to offer counseling, without additional charge, to their customers about medication, dosage, delivery systems, common side effects and other information the pharmacists deem significant can impact our business. Our pharmacists may also have a duty to warn customers regarding any potential negative effects of a prescription drug if the warning could reduce or eliminate these effects. Although we maintain professional liability and errors and omissions liability insurance, from time to time, claims result in the payment of significant amounts, some portions of which are not funded by insurance.
We cannot assure you that the coverage limits under our insurance programs will be adequate to protect us against future claims, or that we will be able to maintain this insurance on acceptable terms in the future. Our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows may be adversely affected if in the future our insurance coverage proves to be inadequate or unavailable or there is an increase in liability for which we self-insure or we suffer reputational harm as a result of an error or omission.
Changes in industry pricing benchmarks could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations.
Contracts in the prescription drug industry generally use certain published benchmarks to establish pricing for prescription drugs. These benchmarks include average wholesale price (“AWP”), average sales price and wholesale acquisition cost.
Recent events have raised uncertainties as to whether payors, pharmacy providers, PBMs and others in the prescription drug industry will continue to utilize AWP as it has previously been calculated or whether other pricing benchmarks will be adopted for establishing prices within the industry. In some circumstances, such changes could also impact the reimbursement that we receive from Medicare or Medicaid programs for drugs covered by such programs and from MCOs that contract with government health programs to provide prescription drug benefits.
The industries in which we operate are extremely competitive and competition could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations.
We operate in a highly competitive environment. As a pharmacy retailer, we compete with other drugstore chains, supermarkets, discount retailers, membership clubs, Internet companies and retail health clinics, as well as other mail order pharmacies. In that regard, many pharmacy benefits plans have implemented plan designs that mandate or provide incentives to fill maintenance medications through mail order pharmacies. To the extent this trend continues, our retail pharmacy business could be adversely affected. In addition, some of these competitors may offer services and pricing terms that we may not be willing or able to offer. Competition may also come from other sources in the future. Thus, competition could have an adverse effect on our business, financial position and results of operations.
Existing and new government legislative and regulatory action could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations.
The retail drugstore business is subject to numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations. Changes in these regulations may require extensive system and operating changes that may be difficult to implement. Untimely compliance or noncompliance with applicable laws and regulations could adversely affect the continued operation of our business, including, but not limited to: imposition of civil or criminal penalties; suspension of payments from government programs; loss of required government certifications or approvals; loss of authorizations to participate in or exclusion from government reimbursement programs, such as the Medicare and Medicaid programs; or loss of licensure. The regulations to which we are subject include, but are not limited to: the laws and regulations; accounting standards; tax laws and regulations; laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment and health and safety matters, including those governing exposure to, and the management and disposal of, hazardous substances; and regulations of the FDA, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission, as well as state regulatory authorities, governing the sale, advertisement and promotion of products that we sell. In that regard, our business, financial position and results of operations could be affected by one or more of the following:
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federal and state laws and regulations governing the purchase, distribution, management, dispensing and reimbursement of prescription drugs and related services, whether at retail or mail, and applicable licensing requirements; |
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the effect of the expiration of patents covering brand name drugs and the introduction of generic products; |
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the frequency and rate of approvals by the FDA of new brand named and generic drugs, or of over-the-counter status for brand name drugs; |
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FDA regulation affecting the retail pharmacy industry; |
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rules and regulations issued pursuant to the HIPAA; and other federal and state laws affecting the use, disclosure and transmission of health information, such as state security breach laws and state laws limiting the use and disclosure of prescriber information; |
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administration of the Medicare drug benefit, including legislative changes and/or CMS rulemaking and interpretation; |
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government regulation of the development, administration, review and updating of formularies and drug lists; |
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state laws and regulations establishing or changing prompt payment requirements for payments to retail pharmacies; |
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impact of network access (any willing provider) legislation on ability to manage pharmacy networks; |
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managed care reform and plan design legislation; |
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insurance licensing and other insurance regulatory requirements applicable to offering prescription drug providers (“PDP”) about the Medicare drug benefit; |
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direct regulation of pharmacies by regulatory and quasi-regulatory bodies; and |
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Federal government sequestration affecting Medicare Part B reimbursements. |
Changes in the health care regulatory environment may adversely affect our business.
Future rulemaking could increase regulation of pharmacy services, result in changes to pharmacy reimbursement rates, and otherwise change the way we do business. We cannot predict the timing or impact of any future rulemaking, but any such rulemaking could have an adverse impact on our results of operations.
The sustainability of our current business model is also dependent on the availability, pricing and rules and regulations relating to the dispensing of controlled medications. Changes that affect any of these variables could greatly impact our current revenue streams as well as alter our business structure and future plans for growth and development.
Efforts to reform the U.S. health care system may adversely affect our financial performance.
Congress periodically considers proposals to reform the U.S. health care system. These proposals may increase government involvement in health care and regulation of pharmacy services, or otherwise change the way we or our clients do business. Health plan sponsors may react to these proposals and the uncertainty surrounding them by reducing or delaying purchases of cost control mechanisms and related services that the combined company would provide. We cannot predict what effect, if any, these proposals may have on its retail and pharmacy services businesses. Other legislative or market-driven changes in the health care system that we cannot anticipate could also materially adversely affect our results of operations, financial position and/or cash flow from operations.
If we are found to be in violation of Medicaid and Medicare reimbursement regulations, we could become subject to retroactive adjustments and recoupment, or exclusion from the Medicaid, Medicare programs, and PBM networks.
As a Medicaid and Medicare provider, we are subject to retroactive adjustments due to prior-year audits, reviews and investigations, government fraud and abuse initiatives, and other similar actions. Federal regulations provide for withholding payments to recoup amounts payable under the programs and, in certain circumstances, allow for exclusion from Medicaid and Medicare. We cannot offer any assurance that, pursuant to such audits, reviews, investigations, or other proceedings, we will be found to be complying in all respects with such reimbursement regulations. A determination that we are in violation of any such reimbursement regulation could result in retroactive adjustments and recoupment of payments and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. As a Medicaid and Medicare provider, we are also subject to routine, unscheduled audits, and if any such audit results in a negative finding, finding, we may be subject to exclusions from Medicaid, Medicare, and other PBM networks, which would adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
Our industry is subject to extensive government regulation, and noncompliance by us or our suppliers could harm our business.
The repackaging, marketing, sale, and purchase of medications are extensively regulated by federal and state governments. In addition, many of the brand name and controlled medications that we sell receive greater attention from law enforcement officials than medications that are most often dispensed by traditional pharmacies due to the high cost of these medications and the potential for diversion and fraud, waste, and abuse. We sell common blood pressure, statin and other common drugs, and dispense either brand name or generic drugs according to the doctor’s prescription. If we fail to, or are accused of failing to, comply with applicable laws and regulations, we could be subject to penalties that may include exclusion from the Medicare or Medicaid programs, fines, requirements to change our practices, and civil or criminal penalties, which could harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Any disqualification from participating in Medicare or the state Medicaid programs would significantly reduce our net sales and our ability to maintain profitability. Our business could also be harmed if the entities with which we contract or have business relationships, such as pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors, physicians, clinics, or home health agencies are accused of violating laws or regulations.
While we believe that we are operating our business in substantial compliance with existing legal requirements material to the operation of our business, there are significant uncertainties involving the application of many of these legal requirements to our business. Changes in interpretation or enforcement policies could subject our current practices to allegations of impropriety or illegality. The applicable regulatory framework is complex and evolving, and the laws are very broad in scope. Many of the laws remain open to interpretation and have not been addressed by substantive court decisions to clarify their meaning. We are also unable to predict what additional federal or state legislation or regulatory initiatives may be enacted in the future relating to our business or the healthcare industry in general, or what effect any such legislation or regulation might have on us. Further, we cannot provide any assurance that federal or state governments will not impose additional restrictions or adopt interpretations of existing laws that could increase our cost of compliance with such laws or reduce our ability to remain profitable.
Federal and state investigations and enforcement actions continue to focus on the healthcare industry, scrutinizing a wide range of items such as referral and billing practices, product discount arrangements, dissemination of confidential patient information, clinical drug research trials, pharmaceutical marketing programs, and gifts for patients. It is difficult to predict how any of the laws implicated in these investigations and enforcement actions may be interpreted to apply to our business. Any future investigation may cause publicity, regardless of the eventual result of the investigation, or its underlying merits, that would cause potential patients to avoid us, reducing our net sales and profits and causing our stock price to decline.
The U.S. capital markets are currently experiencing extreme volatility and disruption following the global outbreak of COVID-19 and other global events. Disruptions in the capital markets in the past have resulted in illiquidity in parts of the capital markets we serve. Our business is affected by the economy in general, including changes in consumer purchasing power, preferences and/or spending patterns. These changes could affect drug utilization trends as well as the financial health and number of covered lives of our clients, resulting in an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Unfavorable economic conditions may cause a decline in drug utilization and dampen demand for pharmaceutical drugs and durable medical equipment as well as consumer demand for sundry products sold in our retail store and our business and financial results could be adversely affected. Further, interest rate fluctuations and changes in capital market conditions may affect our ability to obtain necessary financing on acceptable terms, our ability to secure suitable store locations under acceptable terms and our ability to execute sale or lease transactions under acceptable terms.
If the products and services that we offer fail to meet customer needs, our sales may be affected.
Our products and services must satisfy the needs and desires of our customers, whose preferences may change in the future. If we misjudge either the demand for products and services we provide or our customers’ purchasing habits and tastes, we may be faced with excess inventories of some products and missed opportunities for products and services we chose not to offer. In addition, our sales may decline, or we may be required to dispose of the inventory we have obtained at lower prices. This would have a negative effect on our business and results of operations.
We are highly dependent on one supplier for our products, and a loss of that supplier may adversely impact our ability to sell products to our customers.
We obtain pharmaceutical and other products from wholesale distributors. We maintained a relationship with a primary supplier, McKesson, that accounted for approximately 98% the six months ended December 31, 2023, and several supplementary suppliers. If that supplier was to cease supplying us with products for any reason, we would be forced to find alternative sources for our products. Despite this, we believe we would be able to readily find multiple alternative sources for our products. We may not be able to quickly or effectively replace that supplier, which may lead to delays in product availability and losses of sales, which would have a negative effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We derive a significant portion of our revenues from a small number of customers and a loss of one or both of those customers would have a material adverse impact on our business.
We sell to numerous customers including various managed care organizations within both the private and public sectors. Certain healthcare payors, including Medicare Part D and the State of Florida, account for more than ten percent or more of our consolidated net revenue in fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022. Medicare Part D and the State of Florida Medicaid public assistance program are major customers of ours. However, both government programs function under several different healthcare payors, the concentration of which varies throughout the course of the year. To the extent we lost the business of one or more of these healthcare payors, our revenues would significantly decrease, having a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Our ability to grow our business may be constrained by our inability to find suitable new pharmacy locations at acceptable prices.
Our ability to grow our business may be constrained if suitable new pharmacy locations cannot be identified with lease terms or purchase prices that are acceptable to us. We compete with other retailers and businesses for suitable pharmacy locations. Local land use and other regulations may impact our ability to find suitable locations and influence the cost of construction. The expiration of leases at existing locations may adversely affect us if the renewal terms of those leases are unacceptable to us and we are forced to close or relocate. Furthermore, changing local demographics at existing locations may adversely affect revenue and profitability levels at those locations.
Our ability to grow our business may be constrained by our inability to obtain adequate permits and licensing for new locations, business lines, and market territories.
Our ability to grow our business may be constrained if new locations, business lines, and market territories are not permitted and licensed to conduct ordinary operations. Expansion initiatives can be delayed or even canceled due to a failure to acquire certain government agency approvals. Such delay or cancellation will have a negative impact on our business and results of operations.
Product liability, product recall or personal injury issues could damage our reputation and have a significant adverse effect on our businesses, operating results, cash flows and/or financial condition.
Should a product liability issue, recall or personal injury issue arise, inadequate product or other liability insurance coverage or our inability to maintain such insurance may result in a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Products that we sell could become subject to contamination, product tampering, mislabeling, recall or other damage. In addition, errors in the dispensing and packaging of pharmaceuticals could lead to serious injury. Product liability or personal injury claims may be asserted against us with respect to any of the products or pharmaceuticals we sell or services we provide.
If we are not able to market our services effectively to clinics, their affiliated healthcare providers and prescription drug providers, we may not be able to grow our patient base as rapidly as we have anticipated.
Our success depends, in part, on our ability to develop and maintain relationships with clinics and their affiliated healthcare providers because each is an important patient referral source for our business. In addition, we also must maintain and continue to establish relationships with prescription drug providers so we can continue to fill prescriptions for our dual eligible customers who receive prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D. If we are unable to market our services effectively to these clinics, healthcare providers and prescription drug providers, or if our existing relationships with clinics and providers are terminated, our ability to grow our patient base will be harmed, which could significantly reduce our net sales and our ability to maintain profitability. Additionally, Medicare Part D regulations that strictly limit our ability to market to our current and new patients may limit our ability to maintain and grow our current patient base.
If we fail to manage our growth or implement changes to our reporting systems effectively, our business could be harmed.
If we are unable to manage our growth effectively, we could incur losses. How we manage our growth will depend, among other things, on our ability to adapt our operational, financial and management controls, reporting systems and procedures to the demands of a larger business, including the demands of integrating our acquisitions. To manage the growth and increasing complexity of our business, we may make modifications to or replace computer and other reporting systems, including those that report on our financial results and on which we are substantially dependent. We may incur significant financial and resource costs because of any such modifications or replacements, and our business may be subject to transitional difficulties. The difficulties associated with any such implementation, and any failure or delay in the system implementation, could negatively affect our internal control over financial reporting and harm our business and results of operations. In addition, we may not be able to successfully hire, train and manage additional sales, marketing, customer support and pharmacists quickly enough to support our growth. To provide this support, we may need to open additional offices, which will result in additional burdens on our systems and resources and require additional capital expenditures.
We may acquire other companies or technologies, which could divert our management’s attention, result in additional dilution to our shareholders and otherwise disrupt our operations and harm our operating results.
Our success will depend, in part, on our ability to grow our business in response to the demands of the patients and physicians we serve within the health services industry as well as competitive pressures. In some circumstances, we may determine to do so through the acquisition of complementary businesses and technologies rather than through internal development. The identification of suitable acquisition candidates can be difficult, time-consuming and costly, and we may not be able to successfully complete identified acquisitions. The risks we face in connection with acquisitions include:
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diversion of management time and focus from operating our business to addressing acquisition integration challenges; |
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coordination of technology, research and development and sales and marketing functions; |
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retention of employees from the acquired company; |
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cultural challenges associated with integrating employees from the acquired company into our organization; |
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integration of the acquired company’s accounting, management information, human resources and other administrative systems; |
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the need to implement or improve controls, procedures and policies at a business that prior to the acquisition may have lacked effective controls, procedures and policies; |
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potential write-offs of intangibles or other assets acquired in such transactions that may have an adverse effect our operating results in a given period; |
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liability for activities of the acquired company before the acquisition, including patent and trademark infringement claims, violations of laws, commercial disputes, tax liabilities and other known and unknown liabilities; and |
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litigation or other claims in connection with the acquired company, including claims from terminated employees, consumers, former shareholders or other third-parties. |
Our failure to address these risks or other problems encountered in connection with our future acquisitions and investments could cause us to fail to realize the anticipated benefits of these acquisitions or investments, cause us to incur unanticipated liabilities, and harm our business generally. Future acquisitions could also result in dilutive issuances of our equity securities, the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities, amortization expenses, or the impairment of goodwill, any of which could harm our financial condition. Also, the anticipated benefits of any acquisitions may not materialize to the extent we anticipate or at all.
A disruption in our telephone system or our computer system could harm our business.
We receive and take most prescription orders electronically, over the telephone and by facsimile. We also rely extensively upon our computer system to confirm payor information, patient eligibility and authorizations; to check on medication interactions and patient medication history; to facilitate filling and labeling prescriptions for delivery and billing; and to help with the collection of payments. Our success depends, in part, upon our ability to promptly fill and deliver complex prescription orders as well as on our ability to provide reimbursement management services for our patients and their healthcare providers. Any continuing disruption in our telephone, facsimile or computer systems could adversely affect our ability to receive and process prescription orders, make deliveries on a timely basis and receive reimbursement from our payors. This could adversely affect our relations with the patients and healthcare providers we serve and potentially result in a partial reduction in orders from, or a complete loss of, these patients.
We may fail to retain or recruit necessary personnel, and, even if we are successful, we may be unable to successfully integrate new personnel into our operations.
Our success is highly dependent on the performance of our management team and certain employees, and our continuing ability to attract, develop, motivate, and retain highly qualified and skilled employees and consultants.
We have also engaged consultants to advise us on various aspects of our business. Qualified individuals are in high demand, and we may incur significant costs to attract and retain them. While employment agreements and incentive agreements are customarily used as a primary method of retaining the services of key employees, these agreements and arrangements cannot assure the continued services of such employees. The loss of the services of any key personnel or an inability to attract other suitably qualified persons when needed, could prevent us from executing on our business plan and strategy, and we may be unable to find adequate replacements on a timely basis, or at all.
Moreover, to execute our growth plans, we expect to hire additional executive officers and key employees. Our future performance will depend in part on our ability to successfully integrate those newly hired executive officers into our management team and our ability to develop an effective working relationship among senior management.
Risks Related to the Pharmacy Industry
There is substantial competition in our industry, and we may not be able to compete successfully.
The pharmacy industry is highly competitive and is continuing to become more competitive. All medications, supplies and services that we provide are also available from our competitors. Our current and potential competitors may include:
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Other pharmacy distributors; |
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Specialty pharmacy divisions of wholesale drug distributors; |
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Not for profit organizations with pharmacies; |
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Hospital-based pharmacies; |
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Local infusion providers; |
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Sterile and non-sterile compounding pharmacies; |
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Other retail pharmacies; |
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Provider dispensaries; |
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Manufacturers that sell their products both to distributors and directly to clinics and physicians’ offices; |
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Hospital-based care centers and other alternate-site healthcare providers; |
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Insurance companies with proprietary pharmacy services; |
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Customers and MSO’s of ours who decide to open their own pharmacies; |
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Chain pharmacies; and |
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Mail-order pharmacies. |
Many specialty patients are currently receiving prescription benefits from federally funded programs such as the Ryan White CARE Act. These payors only use non-profit providers to dispense medications to their enrollees.
Many of our competitors have substantially greater resources and marketing staffs and more established operations and infrastructure than we have. A significant factor in effective competition will be our ability to maintain and expand our relationships with patients, healthcare providers and government and private payors.
If demand for our products and services is reduced, our business and ability to grow would be harmed.
A reduction in demand for specialty medications would significantly harm our business, as we would not be able to quickly shift our business to provide medications for other diseases or disorders. Reduced demand for our products and services could be caused by several circumstances, such as:
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A cure or vaccine for chronic care conditions; |
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The emergence of new diseases resistant to available medications; |
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Shifts to treatment regimens other than those we offer; |
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New methods of delivery of existing medications or of injectable or infusible medications that do not require our specialty pharmacy and disease management services; |
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Recalls of the medications we sell; |
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Adverse reactions caused by the medications we sell; and |
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The expiration of or challenge to the drug patents on the medications we sell. |
Our revenues could be adversely affected if new drugs or combination therapies are developed and prescribed to our patients that have a reimbursement rate less than that of the current drug therapies our patients receive.
If our patients switch medications to those with lower reimbursement rates or to combination therapies, which combine multiple drugs into a single medication, our net sales could decline. Combination therapies reduce the number of total prescriptions received by our patients, resulting in reduced average revenues and a decrease in dispensing fees per patient.
If our credit terms with vendors become unfavorable or our relationship with them is terminated, our business could be adversely affected.
We depend on existing credit terms from vendors to meet our working capital needs between the times we purchased medications from vendors and when we received reimbursement or payment from third-party payors. Our ability to grow has been limited in part by our inability to negotiate favorable credit terms from our suppliers. If our position changes and we are unable to maintain adequate credit terms or sufficient financing from third-party lenders, we may become limited in our ability to continue to increase the volume of medications we need to fill prescriptions.
There are only a few wholesale distributors from which we can purchase the high-cost medications we offer. If any of our vendor agreements terminate or are not renewed, we might not be able to enter a new agreement with another wholesale distributor on a timely basis or on terms favorable to us. Our inability to enter a new supply agreement may cause a shortage of the supply of medications we keep in stock, or we may be required to accept pricing and credit terms from a vendor that are less favorable to us than those we currently have.
Risks Relating to Our Data Management Services
Competition with some customers, or decisions by customers to perform internally some of the same solutions or services that we offer, could harm our business, results of operations or financial condition.
Some of our existing customers compete with us, or may do so in the future, and some customers belong to alliances that compete with us, or may do so in the future, either with respect to the solutions or services we provide to them now, or with respect to other lines of business. To the extent that customers elect to perform internally any of the business processes our solutions address, either because they believe they can provide such processes more efficiently internally or otherwise, we may lose such customers, or the volume of our business with such customers may be reduced, which could harm our business, results of operations or financial condition.
If our solutions do not interoperate with our customers’ or their vendors’ networks and infrastructures, or if customers or their vendors implement new system updates that are incompatible with our solutions, sales of those solutions could be adversely affected.
Our solutions must interoperate with our customers’ and their vendors’ existing infrastructures, which often have different specifications, rapidly evolve, utilize multiple protocol standards, and applications from multiple vendors, and contain multiple generations of products that have been added to that infrastructure over time. Some of the technologies supporting our customers and their vendors are changing rapidly and we must continue to adapt to these changes in a timely and effective manner at an acceptable cost. In addition, our customers and their vendors may implement new technologies into their existing networks and systems infrastructures that may not immediately interoperate with our solutions.
Our continued success will depend on our ability to adapt to changing technologies, manage and process ever-increasing amounts of data and information and improve the performance, features and reliability of our services in response to changing customer and industry demands. If we encounter complications related to network configurations or settings, we may have to modify our solutions to enable them to interoperate with customers’ and their vendors’ networks and manage customers’ transactions in the manner intended.
Our ability to generate revenue could suffer if we do not continue to update and improve existing solutions and develop new ones.
We must continually improve the functionality of our existing solutions in a timely manner and introduce new and valuable healthcare IT and service solutions in order to respond to technological and regulatory developments and customer demands and, thereby, retain existing customers and attract new ones. For example, from time to time, government agencies may alter format and data code requirements applicable to electronic transactions. In addition, customers may request that solutions be customized to satisfy particular security protocols, modifications, and other contractual terms in excess of industry norms and standard configurations. We may not be successful in responding to technological and regulatory developments or changing customer needs. In addition, these regulatory or customer-imposed requirements may impact the profitability of particular solutions and customer engagements. The pace of change in the markets served by us is rapid, and there are frequent new product and service introductions by competitors in their offerings. If we do not respond successfully to technological and regulatory changes, as well as evolving industry standards and customer demands, our solutions may become obsolete. Technological changes also may result in the offering of competitive solutions at lower prices than we are charging for our solutions, which could result in us losing sales unless we lower the prices we charge or provide additional efficiencies or capabilities to the customer. If we lower our prices on some of our solutions, we will need to increase margins on other solutions in order to maintain overall profitability.
There are increased risks of performance problems and breaches during times when we are making significant changes to our solutions or systems we use to provide our solutions. In addition, changes to our solutions or systems, including cost savings initiatives, may cost more than anticipated, may not provide the benefits expected, may take longer than anticipated to develop and implement or may increase the risk of performance problems.
In order to respond to technological changes, such as continuing development in the areas of data analytics as well as regulatory changes and evolving security risks and industry standards, our solutions and the software and systems we use to provide our solutions must be continually updated and enhanced. We cannot be certain that errors will not arise in connection with any such changes, updates, enhancements or new versions, especially when first introduced. Even if our new, updated or enhanced solutions do not have performance problems, technical and customer service personnel may have difficulties installing them or providing any necessary training and support to customers, and customers may not follow our guidance on appropriate training, support and implementation for such new, updated or enhanced solutions. In addition, changes in technology and systems may not provide the additional functionality or other benefits that were expected.
Implementation of changes in our technology and systems may cost more or take longer than originally expected and may require more testing than initially anticipated. While new, updated or enhanced solutions will be tested before they are used in production, we cannot be sure that the testing will uncover all problems that may occur in actual use.
If significant problems occur as a result of these changes, we may fail to meet our contractual obligations to customers, which could result in claims being made against us or in the loss of customer relationships.
Breaches and failures of our IT systems and the security measures protecting them, and the sensitive information we transmit, use and store, expose us to potential liability and reputational harm.
Our business relies on sophisticated information systems to obtain, rapidly process, analyze, and manage data, affecting our ability to provide services. To the extent our IT systems are not successfully implemented or fail, our business and results of operations may be adversely affected.
Our business and results of operations may also be adversely affected if a vendor servicing our IT systems does not perform satisfactorily, or if the IT systems are interrupted or damaged by unforeseen events, including the actions of third parties. Further, our business relies to a significant degree upon the secure transmission, use and storage of sensitive information, including protected health information and other personally identifiable information, financial information and other confidential information and data within these systems. To protect this information, we seek to implement commercially reasonable security measures and maintain information security policies and procedures informed by requirements under applicable law and recommended practices, in each case, as applicable to the data collected, hosted and processed. Despite our security management efforts with respect to physical and technological infrastructure, employee training, vendor controls and contractual relationships, our infrastructure, data or other operation centers and systems used in connection with our business operations, including the internet and related systems of our vendors are vulnerable to, and from time to time experience, unauthorized access to data and/or breaches of confidential information due to criminal conduct, physical break-ins, hackers, employee or insider malfeasance and/or improper employee or contractor access, computer viruses, programming errors, denial-of-service attacks, ransomware events, phishing schemes, fraud, terrorist attacks, human error or other breaches by insiders or third-parties or similar disruptive problems. It is not possible to prevent all security threats to our systems and data. Techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service or sabotage systems change frequently and may be difficult to detect for long periods of time.
Because our products and services involve the storage, use and transmission of personal information of consumers, we and other industry participants have been and expect to routinely be the target of attempted cyber and other security threats by outside third parties, including technically sophisticated and well-resourced bad actors attempting to access or steal the data we store. Vendor, insider or employee cyber and security threats also occur and are a significant concern for all companies, including us. While we maintain liability insurance coverage including coverage for errors and omissions and cyber-liability, claims may not be covered or could exceed the amount of our applicable insurance coverage, if any, or such coverage may not continue to be available on acceptable terms or in sufficient amounts.
We collect, process, store, share, disclose and use personal information and other data, and our actual or perceived failure to protect such information and data could damage our reputation and brand and harm our business and operating results.
We collect, process, store, share, disclose and use personal information and other data provided by patients and healthcare providers. We rely on encryption and authentication technology licensed from third parties to effect secure transmission of such information. We may need to expend significant resources to protect against security breaches or to address problems caused by breaches. Any failure or perceived failure to maintain the security of personal and other data that is provided to us by patients and healthcare providers could harm our reputation and brand and expose us to a risk of loss or litigation and possible liability, any of which could harm our business and operating results. In addition, from time to time, it is possible that concerns will be expressed about whether our products, services, or processes compromise the privacy of our users. Concerns about our practices with regard to the collection, use or disclosure of personal information or other privacy related matters, even if unfounded, could harm our business and operating results.
There are numerous federal, state and local laws around the world regarding privacy and the collection, processing, storing, sharing, disclosing, using and protecting of personal information and other data, the scope of which are changing, subject to differing interpretations, and which may be costly to comply with and may be inconsistent between countries and jurisdictions or conflict with other rules. We generally comply with industry standards and are subject to the terms of our privacy policies and privacy-related obligations to third parties. We strive to comply with all applicable laws, policies, legal obligations and industry codes of conduct relating to privacy and data protection, to the extent possible. However, it is possible that these obligations may be interpreted and applied in new ways or in a manner that is inconsistent from one jurisdiction to another and may conflict with other rules or our practices or that new regulations could be enacted. Any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with our privacy policies, our privacy-related obligations to consumers or other third parties, or our privacy-related legal obligations, or any compromise of security that results in the unauthorized release or transfer of sensitive information, which may include personally identifiable information or other user data, may result in governmental enforcement actions, litigation or public statements against us by consumer advocacy groups or others and could cause consumers to lose trust in us, which could have an adverse effect on our business. Additionally, if vendors, developers or other third parties that we work with violate applicable laws or our policies, such violations may also put consumer or dealer information at risk and could in turn harm our reputation, business and operating results.
If we are unable to successfully execute on cross-selling opportunities of our solutions the growth of our business and financial performance could be harmed.
Our ability to generate growth partly depends on our ability to cross-sell solutions to existing customers and new customers. We have identified our ability to successfully cross-sell our solutions as a key part of our business strategy and therefore one of the most significant factors influencing growth. We may not be successful in cross-selling our solutions because customers may find additional solutions unnecessary, unattractive or cost-ineffective. Failure to sell additional solutions to existing and new customers could negatively affect our ability to grow our business.
We rely on internet infrastructure, bandwidth providers, other third parties and our own systems in providing certain of our solutions to our customers, and any failure or interruption in the services provided by these third parties or our own systems could negatively impact our relationships with customers, adversely affecting our brand and our business.
Our ability to deliver our solutions is dependent on the development and maintenance of the infrastructure of the internet and other telecommunications services by third parties. This includes maintenance of a reliable network connection with the necessary speed, data capacity and security for providing reliable internet access and services and reliable telephone and facsimile services. As a result, our information systems require an ongoing commitment of significant resources to maintain and enhance existing systems and develop new systems in order to keep pace with continuing changes in information technology, emerging cybersecurity risks and threats, evolving industry and regulatory standards and changing preferences of our customers.
Our solutions are designed to operate without interruption in accordance with our service level commitments. However, we have experienced limited interruptions in these systems in the past, including server failures that temporarily slow down the performance of our solutions, and we may experience more significant interruptions in the future. We rely on internal systems as well as vendors, including bandwidth and telecommunications equipment providers, to provide our solutions. We do not maintain redundant systems or facilities for some of these services. Interruptions in these systems, whether due to system failures, computer viruses, physical or electronic break-ins or other catastrophic events, could affect the security or availability of our solutions and prevent or inhibit the ability of our customers to access our solutions.
If a catastrophic event were to occur with respect to one or more of these systems or facilities, we may experience an extended period of system unavailability, which could result in substantial costs to remedy those problems or negatively impact our relationship with our partners, our business, results of operations and financial condition. To operate without interruption, both we and our vendors must guard against:
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damage from fire, power loss, tornado and other natural disasters; |
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telecommunications failures; |
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software and hardware errors, failures and crashes; |
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security breaches, computer viruses and similar disruptive problems; and |
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other potential interruptions. |
Any disruption in the network access, telecommunications or co-location services provided by vendors, or any failure of or by vendors’ systems or our own systems to handle current or higher volume of use could significantly harm our business. We exercise limited control over these vendors, which increases our vulnerability to problems with services they provide. Any errors, failures, interruptions or delays experienced in connection with these vendor technologies and information services or our own systems could negatively impact our relationships with partners and adversely affect our business and could expose us to liabilities. Although we maintain insurance for our business, the coverage under our policies may not be adequate to compensate us for all losses that may occur. In addition, we cannot provide assurance that we will continue to be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage at an acceptable cost.
Risks Related to Our Securities
You may experience dilution of your ownership interests because of the future issuance of additional shares of our common or preferred stock or other securities that are convertible into or exercisable for our common or preferred stock.
We are authorized to issue an aggregate of 50,000,000 shares of common stock and 3,333,333 shares of “blank check” preferred stock. In the future, we may issue our authorized but previously unissued equity securities, resulting in the dilution of the ownership interests of our present stockholders. We may issue additional shares of our common stock or other securities that are convertible into or exercisable for our common stock in connection with hiring or retaining employees, future acquisitions, future sales of our securities for capital raising purposes, or for other business purposes. The future issuance of any such additional shares of our common stock may create downward pressure on the trading price of the common stock.
You will experience future dilution because of future equity offerings.
We may in the future offer additional shares of our common stock or other securities convertible into or exchangeable for our common stock. Although no assurances can be given that we will consummate a financing, in the event we do, or in the event we sell shares of common stock or other securities convertible into shares of our common stock in the future, additional and substantial dilution will occur. In addition, investors purchasing shares or other securities in the future could have rights superior to our current stockholders.
We do not anticipate paying dividends on our common stock, and investors may lose the entire amount of their investment.
Cash dividends have never been declared or paid on our common stock, and we do not anticipate such a declaration or payment in the foreseeable future. We expect to use future earnings, if any, to fund business growth. Therefore, stockholders will not receive any funds absent a sale of their shares of common stock. If we do not pay dividends, our common stock may be less valuable because a return on your investment will only occur if our stock price appreciates. We cannot assure stockholders of a positive return on their investment when they sell their shares, nor can we assure that stockholders will not lose the entire amount of their investment.
The ability of our Board of Directors to issue additional stock may prevent or make certain transactions more difficult, including a sale or merger of the Company.
Our Board of Directors is authorized to issue up to 3,333,333 shares of preferred stock with powers, rights and preferences designated by it. Shares of voting or convertible preferred stock could be issued, or rights to purchase such shares could be issued, to create voting impediments or to frustrate persons seeking to affect a takeover or otherwise gain control of the Company. The ability of the Board of Directors to issue such additional shares of preferred stock, with rights and preferences it deems advisable, could discourage an attempt by a party to acquire control of the Company by tender offer or other means. Such issuances could therefore deprive stockholders of benefits that could result from such an attempt, such as the realization of a premium over the market price for their shares in a tender offer or the temporary increase in market price that such an attempt could cause. Moreover, the issuance of such additional shares of preferred stock to persons friendly to the Board of Directors could make it more difficult to remove incumbent officers and directors from office even if such change were to be favorable to stockholders generally.
Our common stock and warrants are thinly traded and there can be no assurance that a more active public market will ever develop. Failure to develop or maintain an active trading market could negatively affect the value of our common stock and make it difficult or impossible for you to sell your shares.
Our common stock and Warrants are listed on Nasdaq but there can be no assurance that an active trading market will develop for our shares and Warrants. Should we fail to satisfy the Nasdaq continued listing standards, the trading price of our common stock could suffer and the trading market for our common stock and warrants may be less liquid, and our common stock price and warrant price may be subject to increased volatility, making it difficult or impossible to sell shares of our common stock and warrants.
The provisions of our Nasdaq listed Warrants could discourage the acquisition of us by a third party.
Certain provisions of our Nasdaq listed Warrants could make it more difficult or expensive for a third party to acquire us. The Nasdaq listed Warrants prohibit us from engaging in certain transactions constituting “fundamental transactions” unless, among other things, the surviving entity assumes our obligations under the warrants. These and other provisions of the Nasdaq listed Warrants could prevent or deter a third party from acquiring us even where the acquisition could be beneficial to you.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to comply with the continued listing standards of Nasdaq, a failure of which could result in a de-listing of our common stock.
The Nasdaq Capital Market requires that the trading price of its listed stocks remain above one dollar in order for the stock to remain listed. If a listed stock trades below one dollar for more than 30 consecutive trading days, then it is subject to delisting from Nasdaq. In addition, to maintain a listing on Nasdaq, we must satisfy minimum financial and other continued listing requirements and standards, including those regarding director independence and independent committee requirements, minimum stockholders’ equity, and certain corporate governance requirements. If we are unable to satisfy these requirements or standards, we could be subject to delisting, which would have a negative effect on the price of our common stock and would impair your ability to sell or purchase our common stock when you wish to do so. In the event of a delisting, we would expect to take actions to restore our compliance with the listing requirements, but we can provide no assurance that any such action taken by us would allow our common stock to become listed again, stabilize the market price or improve the liquidity of our common stock, prevent our common stock from dropping below the minimum bid price requirement, or prevent future non-compliance with the listing requirements.
Our stock price may be volatile.
The market price of our common stock is likely to be highly volatile and could fluctuate widely in price in response to various factors, many of which are beyond our control, including the following:
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changes in our industry; |
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competitive pricing pressures; |
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our ability to obtain working capital financing; |
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additions or departures of key personnel; |
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conversions from preferred stock to common stock; |
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sales of our common and preferred stock; |
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our ability to execute our business plan; |
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operating results that fall below expectations; |
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loss of any strategic relationship; |
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regulatory developments; and |
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economic and other external factors. |
In addition, the securities markets have from time-to-time experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that are unrelated to the operating performance of companies. These market fluctuations may also materially and adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
Offers or availability for sale of a substantial number of shares of our common stock may cause the price of our common stock to decline.
If our stockholders sell substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, including upon the expiration of any statutory holding period under Rule 144, or issued upon the conversion of preferred stock or exercise of warrants, it could create a circumstance commonly referred to as an “overhang” and in anticipation of which the market price of our common stock could fall. The existence of an overhang, whether sales have occurred or are occurring, also could make more difficult our ability to raise additional financing through the sale of equity or equity-related securities in the future at a time and price that we deem reasonable or appropriate.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
Not applicable.
NextPlat uses, stores, and processes data for and about our customers, employees, partners and suppliers. We have implemented a cybersecurity risk management program that is designed to identify, assess, and mitigate risks from cybersecurity threats to this data, our systems, and our business operations.
Cyber Risk Management and Strategy
Our cybersecurity risk management processes are being integrated into our overall risk management processes. We are making efforts to incorporate cybersecurity considerations as a part of our business processes. We engage with external cybersecurity experts, including assessors, consultants, and auditors, to enhance our cybersecurity measures and ensure compliance with industry best practices. We have established processes to oversee and manage cybersecurity risks associated with our use of third-party service providers, ensuring they adhere to our security standards. We review third-party service provider contracts to ensure they contain data privacy and security provisions, aligning with our standards and regulatory requirements. We use the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework to guide our approach, ensuring a structured and comprehensive strategy for managing cybersecurity risks.
Risk Management Oversight and Governance
The Board of Directors has oversight of the Company’s cybersecurity program. Our management team, in consultation with the Board of Directors, is responsible for monitoring, preventing, detecting, mitigating and remediating cybersecurity incidents.
Item 2. Description of Property.
Corporate Office
On December 2, 2021, the Company entered into a 62-month lease for 4,141 square feet of office space in Coconut Grove, Florida, for approximately $186,000 annually. The rent increases 3% annually. The lease commenced upon occupancy on June 13, 2022, and will expire on August 31, 2027.
e-Commerce location
For our facilities in Poole, England, we rent office and warehouse space of approximately 2,660 square feet for £30,000 annually or approximately USD $37,000, based on a yearly average exchange rate of 1.24 GBP:USD. The Poole lease was renewed on November 1, 2023, and will expire October 31, 2024.
Pharmacy locations
Pharmco 901
We own approximately 11,000 sq. ft. facility at 400 Ansin Blvd, Bay A, Hallandale, Florida. The monthly mortgage payment is approximately $12,000.
During December 2020, Pharmco 901 moved a majority of its pharmacy operations from their North Miami Beach, Florida location to the new 11,000 square foot pharmacy facility in our administrative offices in., Hallandale Beach, Florida.
Pharmco 1002
We rent pharmacy space at 3208 2nd Avenue North, Bays 2, 3 and 4, Palm Springs, FL 33461. The original lease expired in March 2021 and automatically renewed for an additional 48 months through February 2025. The lease agreement calls for monthly payments of approximately $4,300, with an escalating payment schedule each year thereafter.
Pharmco 1103
We rent pharmacy space at 1160 South Semoran Blvd, Suites D, E, F, Orlando, Florida. The lease was entered into and commenced on August 1, 2020 with a 66-month term and expires on February 1, 2026. The lease agreement calls for monthly payments beginning February 1, 2021 of $4,310, with an escalating payment schedule each year thereafter.
Pharmco 1204
Our Pharmco 1204 Davie location moved to North Miami Beach, Florida during August 2021. We rent approximately 2,200 square foot of retail and pharmacy space. The lease is for five years and commenced on September 1, 2021. The lease agreement calls for monthly payments of approximately $5,200, with an escalating payment schedule each year thereafter.
We believe that we have adequate space for our anticipated needs and that suitable additional space will be available at commercially reasonable prices as needed.
On June 22, 2021, Thomas Seifert’s employment as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer was terminated for cause. Mr. Seifert asserts that the termination was not for cause and that he is owed compensation payable under his June 2, 2021 employment agreement. The Company’s position is that Mr. Seifert is not owed any additional compensation relating to his prior service with the Company or arising under any employment agreement. The Company and Mr. Seifert are currently engaged in litigation over the matter of his employment and termination. The Company believes it has adequate defenses to Mr. Seifert’s claims and has asserted affirmative claims for relief against Mr. Seifert including, but not limited to, breach of the employment agreement, breach of his fiduciary duties, fraud in the inducement in connection with the employment agreement, fraudulent misrepresentation, and constructive fraud. A detailed recitation of the Company’s factual allegations supporting these claims can be found in the Company’s Second Amended Complaint, filed June 21, 2022. The Company does not expect to seek substantial monetary relief in the litigation. This dispute is pending before the District Court for the Southern District of Florida under Case No. 1:21-cv-22436-DPG.
On July 5, 2022, Mr. Seifert moved to dismiss NextPlat’s Second Amended Complaint, and filed a Counterclaim against the Company and its Chief Executive Officer, Charles M. Fernandez. In his Counterclaim, Mr. Seifert seeks legal remedies in connection with the Company’s June 22, 2021, termination of his employment. Mr. Seifert also claims Retaliatory Discharge under Florida’s Private Whistleblower Act, Defamation, and Negligent Misrepresentation.
A jury trial is set to occur during the trial court's two-week trial calendar, starting August 21, 2024.
From time to time, the Company may become involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of our operations in the normal course of business. Other than the matter described above, the Company is not currently involved in any pending legal proceeding or litigation, and to the best of our knowledge, no governmental authority is contemplating any proceeding to which the Company is a party or to which any of the Company’s properties is subject, which would reasonably be likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and operating results.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Market Information
Our shares have been listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market since May 28, 2021. Our common stock and warrants have been trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols “NXPL” and “NXPLW,” respectively, since January 21, 2022.
Holders of Common Equity
As of March 26, 2024, we had 18,724,596 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding held by approximately 491 stockholders of record.
Dividend Policy
We have never paid any cash dividends on our capital stock and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. We intend to retain future earnings to fund ongoing operations and future capital requirements. Any future decision to pay cash dividends will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will be dependent upon financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements and such other factors as the Board of Directors deems relevant.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
None.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
See Part III, Item 12 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information relating to securities authorized for issuance under our equity compensation plans.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements
This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 including those relating to our liquidity, our belief that we will not have sufficient cash and borrowing capacity to meet our working capital needs for the next 12 months without further financing, our expectations regarding acquisitions and new lines of business, gross profit, gross margins and capital expenditures. Additionally, words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “believes,” “will,” “would,” “plan,” “vision” and similar words are used to identify forward-looking statements.
Some or all the results anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not occur. Important factors, uncertainties and risks that may cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the Risk Factors which appear in our filings and reports made with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), our lack of working capital, the value of our securities, the impact of competition, the continuation or worsening of current economic conditions, technology and technological changes, a potential decrease in consumer spending and the condition of the domestic and global credit and capital markets. Additionally, these forward-looking statements are presented as of the date this Form 10-K is filed with the SEC. We do not intend to update any of these forward-looking statements.
This discussion should be read in conjunction with the other sections of this Report, including “Risk Factors,” “Description of Business” and the Financial Statements attached hereto pursuant and the related exhibits. The various sections of this discussion contain a number of forward-looking statements, all of which are based on our current expectations and could be affected by the uncertainties and risk factors described throughout this Report.
The following discussion provides information which management believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of our results of operations and financial condition. The discussion should be read along with our financial statements and notes thereto contained elsewhere in this annual report. The following discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ significantly from the results, expectations and plans discussed in these forward-looking statements.
Overview
Business acquisition of Progressive Care, Inc.
On August 30, 2022, NextPlat entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”) between NextPlat and Progressive Care, under which NextPlat, its Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Charles M. Fernandez, board member, Rodney Barreto, and certain other investors invested an aggregate of $8.3 million into Progressive Care. In connection with the SPA, NextPlat purchased 3,000 newly issued Units of Progressive Care valued at $6 million, with each Unit comprised of one share of Progressive Care’s Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, $0.001 par value, and one Investor Warrant to purchase a share of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock at an exercise price of $2,000 The Investor Warrants may also be exercised, in whole or in part, by means of a cashless exercise. The Convertible Preferred Stock has a stated value of $2,000 per share and each Preferred Stock share has the equivalent voting rights of 500 common stock shares (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split described below). Each share of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock is convertible at any time at the option of the holder into shares of Progressive Care Common Stock shares determined by dividing the stated value by the conversion price which is $4.00 (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split described below). Also, pursuant to the SPA, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto were nominated for election to Progressive Care’s Board of Directors
In addition, on August 30, 2022, NextPlat Corp, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto, and certain other investors (collectively, the “NextPlat Investors”) purchased from Iliad Research a Secured Convertible Promissory Note, dated March 6, 2019, made by Progressive Care to Iliad (the “Note”). The accrued and unpaid principal and interest under the note at the time of the purchase was approximately $2.8 million. Upon the completion the purchase of the Note, the NextPlat Investors and Progressive Care entered into a Modification Agreement pursuant to which the Note was amended and restated with modified terms, including a modified conversion price of $4.00 per share of common stock (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split described below), and a mandatory conversion upon the later to occur of (a) the completion of the Progressive Care’s reverse stock split, and (b) the listing of Progressive Care’s common stock on a national exchange, including the Nasdaq Capital Market, the Nasdaq Global Market, or the New York Stock Exchange (the “A&R Note”). As consideration for their entry into the Debt Modification Agreement, Progressive Care issued 105,000 shares of its common stock to the NextPlat Investors, of which NextPlat, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto, received 45,653, 18,261, and 18,261 shares, respectively.
On September 13, 2022, the Progressive Care Board of Directors appointed Charles M. Fernandez as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Rodney Barreto as the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors. In connection with these appointments, Alan Jay Weisberg, Progressive Care’s current Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, was appointed to serve as a Vice Chairman. On September 12, 2022, two of Progressive Care’s Directors, Birute Norkute and Oleg Firer, resigned as Directors. On October 7, 2022, the Progressive Care Board of Directors unanimously voted to approve the appointment of Pedro Rodriguez, MD to the Board. Dr. Rodriguez was nominated to the Progressive Care Board by NextPlat.
On November 11, 2022, Mr. Weisberg resigned from his positions as Progressive Care’s Chief Executive Officer and co-Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors. On the same date, the Board appointed Mr. Fernandez to serve as the new Chief Executive Officer immediately.
On December 29, 2022, Progressive Care filed a Certificate of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation (the “Amendment to Articles”) with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Pursuant to the Amendment to Articles, each 200 shares of Progressive Care’s common stock outstanding was converted into one share of common stock (the “Reverse Stock Split”) and the number of shares of common stock that Progressive Care is authorized to issue was reduced to 100 million (the “Reduction in Authorized Stock”). The Reverse Stock Split and the Reduction in Authorized Stock were approved by the Progressive Care Board of Directors and the shareholders.
On May 5, 2023, NextPlat entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”) with Progressive Care, pursuant to which NextPlat purchased 455,000 newly issued units of securities from Progressive Care (the “Units”) at a price per Unit of $2.20 for an aggregate purchase price of $1 million (the “Unit Purchase”). Each Unit consisted of one share of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Progressive Care and one warrant to purchase a share of common stock (the “PIPE Warrants”). The PIPE Warrants have a three-year term and are immediately exercisable. Each PIPE Warrant is exercisable at $2.20 per share of common stock. On May 9, 2023, the Companies closed the transactions contemplated in the SPA. Progressive Care received cash proceeds of $880,000, net of placement agent commission of $70,000 and legal fees of $50,000.
Simultaneous with the closing of the Unit Purchase on May 9, 2023, Progressive Care entered into a Debt Conversion Agreement (the “DCA”) with the NextPlat Investors relating to the A&R Note. Pursuant to the DCA, the NextPlat Investors agreed to convert the total approximately $2.9 million of outstanding principal and accrued and unpaid interest under the A&R Note to Proogressive Care common stock at a conversion price of $2.20 per share (the “Debt Conversion”). Of the total 1,312,379 shares of Progressive Care common stock issued pursuant to the Debt Conversion, NextPlat received 570,599 shares, Charles M. Fernandez received 228,240 shares, and Rodney Barreto received 228,240 shares. In addition, each of the NextPlat Investors also received a warrant to purchase one share of Progressive Care common stock for each share of Progressive Care common stock they received upon conversion of the A&R Note (the “Conversion Warrants”). The Conversion Warrants have a three-year term and were immediately exercisable. Each Conversion Warrant is exercisable at $2.20 per share of Common Stock. In addition, Progressive Care issued 330,000 warrants to certain existing Progressive Care investors to induce them to approve the Unit Purchase (the “Inducement Warrants”). Charles M. Fernandez and Rodney Barreto received Inducement Warrants to purchase 190,000 and 30,000 shares of Common Stock, respectively. The Inducement Warrants have a three-year term and were immediately exercisable. Each Inducement Warrant is exercisable at $2.20 per share of Progressive Care common stock.
On July 1, 2023, NextPlat, along with Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto, exercised certain common stock purchase warrants issued by Progressive Care (the “RXMD Warrants”) and were issued shares of Progressive Care common stock. NextPlat exercised RXMD Warrants on a cashless basis and was issued 402,269 shares of Progressive Care common stock. NextPlat also exercised RXMD Warrants on a cash basis and paid consideration in the amount of $506,000 and was issued 230,000 shares of Progressive Care common stock. Mr. Fernandez exercised RXMD Warrants on a cashless basis and was issued 211,470 shares of Progressive Care common stock. Mr. Barreto exercised RXMD Warrants on a cashless basis and was issued 130,571 shares of Progressive Care common stock. At the time of exercise, all of the above RXMD Warrants were in-the-money. After the exercise of the RXMD Warrants, NextPlat and Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto collectively owned approximately 53% of Progressive Care’s voting common stock.
Also, on July 1, 2023, NextPlat and entered into a voting agreement with Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto whereby at any annual or special shareholders meeting of Progressive Care’s stockholders, and whenever the holders of Progressive Care’s common stock act by written consent, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto agreed to vote all of the shares of Progressive Care common stock (including any new shares acquired after the date of the voting agreement or acquired through the conversion of securities convertible into Progressive Care common stock) that they own, directly or indirectly, in the same manner that NextPlat votes its shares of Progressive Care common stock. The voting agreement is irrevocable and perpetual in term.
As a result of the common stock purchase warrant exercises and the entry into the voting agreement, NextPlat concluded that there was a change in control of Progressive Care. As of July 1, 2023, NextPlat has the right to control more than 50 percent of the voting interests in Progressive Care through the concurrent common stock purchase warrant exercises and voting agreement noted above. Beginning on July 1, 2023, the Company changed the accounting method for its investment in Progressive Care, which prior to July 1, 2023 had been accounted for as an equity method investment to consolidation under the voting interest model in FASB ASC Topic 805. Starting on July 1, 2023, Progressive Care became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company.
e-Commerce Operations:
Leveraging the e-commerce experience of the Company’s management team and the Company’s existing e-commerce platforms, the Company has embarked upon the rollout of a state-of-the-art e-commerce platform to collaborate with businesses to optimize their ability to sell their goods online, domestically, and internationally, and enabling customers and partners to optimize their e-commerce presence and revenue, which we expect will become the focus of the Company’s business in the future. Historically, the business of NextPlat has been the provision of a comprehensive array of Satellite Industry communication services, and related equipment sales. The Company operates two main e-commerce websites as well as 25 third-party e-commerce storefronts such as Alibaba, Amazon and Walmart. These e-Commerce venues form an effective global network serving thousands of consumers, enterprises, and governments. NextPlat has announced its intention to broaden its e-commerce platform and is implementing comprehensive systems upgrades to support this initiative.
e-Commerce transaction volumes at the Company’s owned and operated websites in the UK and Unites States continued to grow throughout the third quarter setting monthly performance records.
Healthcare Operations:
Progressive Care, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, currently owns and operates five pharmacies, which generate most of its pharmacy revenues, which is derived from dispensing medications to their patients. Progressive Care also provides patient health risk reviews and free same-day delivery.
Progressive Care provides TPA ("Third Party Administration"), data management, COVID-19 related diagnostics and vaccinations, prescription pharmaceuticals, compounded medications, telepharmacy services, anti-retroviral medications, medication therapy management, the supply of prescription medications to long-term care facilities, medication adherence packaging, contracted pharmacy services for 340B covered entities under the 340B Drug Discount Pricing Program, and health practice risk management. Progressive Care are focused on improving the lives of patients with complex chronic diseases through a patient and provider engagement and their partnerships with payors, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and distributors. Progressive Care offer a broad range of solutions to address the dispensing, delivery, dosing, and reimbursement of clinically intensive, high-cost drugs.
Progressive Care’s pharmacies also provides contracted pharmacy services for 340B covered entities under the 340B Drug Discount Pricing Program. Under the terms of these agreements, Progressive Care’s pharmacies act as a pass-through for reimbursements on prescription claims adjudicated on behalf of the 340B covered entities in exchange for a dispensing fee per prescription. These fees vary by the covered entity and the level of services provided by Progressive Care.
Progressive Care’s focus is on complex chronic diseases that generally require multiyear or lifelong therapy, which drives recurring revenue and sustainable growth. Progressive Care’s pharmacy services revenue growth is from expanding their services, new drugs coming to market, new indications for existing drugs, volume growth with current clients, and additions of new customers due to their focus on higher patient engagement, benefit of free delivery to the patient, and clinical expertise. The pharmacies also expanded revenue growth through the signing of new contract pharmacy service and data management contracts with 340B covered entities.
Progressive Care provides data management and TPA services for 340B covered entities, pharmacy analytics, and programs to manage HEDIS Quality Measures including Medication Adherence. These offerings cater to the need for frontline providers to understand best practices, patient behaviors, care management processes, and the financial mechanisms behind these decisions. ClearMetrX provides data access, and actionable insights that providers and support organizations can use to improve their practice and patient care. ClearMetrX's TPA services include management of wholesale accounts, patient eligibility with regard to the 340B drug program, development and review of 340B policies and procedures, and management of receivables.
Distribution of Our Products Through Alibaba
On July 13, 2021, we announced that our Global Telesat Communications (“GTC”) unit entered into an agreement with Alibaba.com, the B2B (Business-to-Business) e-commerce website owned and operated by Alibaba Group Holding Limited, also known as Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA; HKEX: 9988), a Chinese multinational technology company specializing in e-commerce, retail, internet, and technology. GTC is a Gold-level Supplier on Alibaba.com, the world’s largest Business-to-Business (B2B) e-commerce website. Under the agreement, GTC significantly expanded its 24/7/365 e-commerce presence with the launch of its latest global storefront on Alibaba.com on which it offers a range of satellite IoT and connectivity products. These include our specialized satellite tracking products, some of which operate using the Company’s many ground station-based network processors and can be used to track and monitor the location of cars, trucks, trailers, boats, containers, animals, and other remote assets. Although we currently have a limited range of products available through the Alibaba storefront due to supply chain constrictions, we plan to ultimately have up to 500 products and connectivity services available on Alibaba.com. The agreement will continue on a year-to-year basis.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States. Preparing financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses, estimated asset lives, impairments and bad debts. These estimates and assumptions are affected by management’s applications of accounting policies. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
We believe the following critical accounting policies, grouped by our activities, affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. For additional information, see Item 8 of Part II, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 3 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.”
Revenue Recognition and Unearned Revenue
e-Commerce Operations:
The Company recognizes revenue from satellite services when earned, as services are rendered or delivered to customers. Equipment sales revenue is recognized when the equipment is delivered to and accepted by the customer. Only equipment sales are subject to warranty. Historically, the Company has not incurred significant expenses for warranties. Equipment sales which have been prepaid, before the goods are shipped are recorded as contract liabilities and once shipped is recognized as revenue. The Company also records as contract liabilities, certain annual plans for airtime, which are paid in advance. Once airtime services are incurred, they are recognized as revenue. Unbilled revenue is recognized for airtime plans whereby the customer is invoiced for its data usage the following month after services are incurred.
The Company’s customers generally purchase a combination of our products and services as part of a multiple element arrangement. The Company’s assessment of which revenue recognition guidance is appropriate to account for each element in an arrangement can involve significant judgment. This assessment has a significant impact on the amount and timing of revenue recognition.
The Company recognizes revenue when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services, in an amount that reflects the consideration which we expect to receive in exchange for those goods or services. To determine revenue recognition for arrangements that the Company determines are within the scope of ASC 606, we perform the following five steps: (i) identify the contract(s) with a customer; (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (iii) determine the transaction price; (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) we satisfy a performance obligation. The five-step model is applied to contracts when it is probable that we will collect the consideration we are entitled to in exchange for the goods or services transferred to the customer. At contract inception, once the contract is determined to be within the scope of ASC 606, we assess the goods or services promised within each contract and determine those that are performance obligations and assess whether each promised good or service is distinct. We then recognize revenue in the amount of the transaction price that is allocated to the respective performance obligation when (or as) the performance obligation is satisfied.
Healthcare Operations:
We recognize product sales from prescriptions dispensed to patients (customers) at the time the drugs are physically delivered to a customer or when a customer picks up their prescription, which is the point in time when control transfers to the customer. 340B dispensing fees are a component of 340B contract revenue, which are recognized at the time the drugs are received by the patient, by either delivery or customer pick up. Payments are received directly from the customer at the point of sale, or the customers’ insurance provider is billed electronically. For third-party medical insurance and other claims, authorization is obtained to ensure payment from the customer’s insurance provider before the medication is dispensed to the customer. Authorization is obtained for these sales electronically and a corresponding authorization number is issued by the customer’s insurance provider.
We accrue an estimate of PBM fees, including direct and indirect remuneration (“DIR”) fees, which are assessed or expected to be assessed by payers at some point after adjudication of a claim, as a reduction of prescription revenue at the time revenue is recognized. Changes in the estimate of such fees are recorded as an adjustment to revenue when the change becomes known.
We record unearned revenue for prescriptions that are filled but not yet delivered at period-end. Billings for most prescription orders are with third-party payers, including Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance carriers. Customer returns are nominal. Prescription revenues exceeded 80% of total revenue for all periods presented.
We recognize revenue from TPA services as we satisfy the services under the TPA contract with a 340B covered entity. TPA services provided to covered entities include consulting services, accounting and reconciliation of contract pharmacy billings, and various compliance services.
We recognize COVID-19 testing revenue when the tests are performed and results are delivered to the customer. Each test is considered an arrangement with the customer and is a separate performance obligation. Payment is generally received in advance from the customer.
Billings for most prescription orders are with third-party payers, including Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance carriers. Customer returns are nominal.
Stock-Based Compensation
Stock-based compensation is accounted for based on the requirements of the Share-Based Payment Topic of ASC 718 which requires recognition in the consolidated financial statements of the cost of employee and director services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments over the period the employee or director is required to perform the services in exchange for the award (presumptively, the vesting period). The ASC also requires measurement of the cost of employee and director services received in exchange for an award based on the grant-date fair value of the award.
In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-07, Compensation – Stock Compensation. (Topic 718). This update is intended to reduce cost and complexity and to improve financial reporting for share-based payments issues to non-employees (for example, service providers, external legal counsel, suppliers, etc.). The ASU expanded the scope of ASC 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation, which previously only included share-based payments issued to employees, to also includes share-based payments issues to non-employees for goods and services. Consequently, the accounting for share-based payment to non-employees and employees will be substantially aligned. This standard became effective for the financial statements issues by public companies for the annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Management adopted this standard on January 1, 2019.
The Company estimated the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option-pricing formula. This fair value is then amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service periods of the awards, which is generally the vesting period. The Company’s determination of the fair value using the option-pricing model is affected by the stock price as well as assumptions regarding the number of highly subjective variables.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of over the value assigned to net tangible and identifiable intangible assets. Progressive Care, which is our Healthcare Operations, is considered to be the reporting unit for goodwill. We perform the required annual impairment tests of goodwill at the end of each fiscal year on our reporting unit. To determine the fair value of the reporting unit, we use a discounted cash flow model with market-based support as our valuation technique to measure the fair value for our reporting unit. The discounted cash flow model uses five-to-ten-year forecasted cash flows plus a terminal value based on a multiple of earnings or by capitalizing the last period’s cash flows using a perpetual growth rate. Our significant assumptions in the discounted cash flow models include, but are not limited to: the weighted average cost of capital (“WACC”), revenue growth rates, including perpetual revenue growth rates, and operating margin percentages of the reporting unit's business. We consider the current market conditions when determining assumptions. The total forecasted cash flows are discounted based on ranges included in assumptions regarding our WACC. Lastly, we reconcile the aggregate fair values of our reporting units to our market capitalization, which include a reasonable control premium based on market conditions. The use of estimates and the development of assumptions results in uncertainties around forecasted cash flows.
A change in any of these estimates and assumptions used in the annual test, a degradation in the overall markets served by these reporting units, among other factors, could have a negative material impact to the fair value of the reporting units and could result in a future impairment charge. There can be no assurance that our future goodwill impairment testing will not result in a charge to earnings. This impairment charge could have a negative material impact on our results of operations.
Acquired intangible assets other than goodwill are amortized over their useful lives unless the lives are determined to be indefinite. For intangible assets purchased in a business combination, the estimated fair values of the assets received are used to establish their recorded values. Valuation techniques consistent with the market approach, income approach, and/or cost approach are used to measure fair value. Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are assessed annually for impairment in the fourth fiscal quarter and in interim periods if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets may be impaired.
Use of Estimates
In preparing the Consolidated Financial Statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the statements of financial condition, and revenues and expenses for the years then ended. Actual results may differ significantly from those estimates. Significant estimates made by management include, but are not limited to, assumptions used to calculate stock-based compensation, fair value of net assets acquired in the business combination with Progressive Care Inc. common stock and options issued for services, net realizable value of accounts receivables the useful lives of property and equipment and intangible assets, the estimate of the fair value of the lease liability and related right of use assets, PBM fee estimates, and the estimates of the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets and corporate income taxes.
Effect of Exchange Rate on Results
The Company’s reporting currency is U.S. Dollars. The accounts of one of the Company’s subsidiaries, GTC, is maintained using the appropriate local currency, Great British Pound, as the functional currency. All assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. Dollars at balance sheet date, shareholders’ equity is translated at historical rates and revenue and expense accounts are translated at the average exchange rate for the year or the reporting period. The translation adjustments are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity, captioned as accumulated other comprehensive (loss) gain. Transaction gains and losses arising from exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency are included in the statements of operations.
The results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2023 include results of operations for the Progressive Care subsidiary for the period from the date of acquisition, July 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023.
Results of Operations
Our revenues were as follows (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, |
||||||||||||||||
| 2023 |
2022 |
$ Change |
% Change |
|||||||||||||
| Revenue, net |
$ | 37,756 | $ | 11,710 | $ | 26,046 | 222 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of revenue |
26,445 | 9,221 | 17,224 | 187 | % | |||||||||||
| Gross profit |
11,311 | 2,489 | 8,822 | 354 | % | |||||||||||
| Operating expenses |
34,539 | 9,692 | 24,847 | 256 | % | |||||||||||
| Loss before other (income) expense |
(23,228 | ) | (7,203 | ) | (16,025 | ) | 222 | % | ||||||||
| Other expense |
(937 | ) | 132 | (1,069 | ) | (810 | )% | |||||||||
| Loss before income taxes and equity in net loss of affiliate |
(22,291 | ) | (7,335 | ) | (14,956 | ) | 204 | % | ||||||||
| Income taxes |
(28 | ) | (87 | ) | 59 | nm | % | |||||||||
| Loss before equity in net loss of affiliate |
(22,319 | ) | (7,422 | ) | (14,897 | ) | 201 | % | ||||||||
| Gain on remeasurement of fair value of equity interest in affiliate prior to acquisition |
11,352 | - | 11,352 | 100 | % | |||||||||||
| Equity in net loss of affiliate |
(1,440 | ) | (1,739 | ) | 299 | (17 | )% | |||||||||
| Net loss |
(12,407 | ) | (9,161 | ) | (3,246 | ) | 35 | % | ||||||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest |
8,629 | - | 8,629 | 100 | % | |||||||||||
| Net loss attributable to NextPlat Corp |
$ | (3,778 | ) | $ | (9,161 | ) | $ | 5,383 | (59 | )% | ||||||
nm = not meaningful
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, we recognized overall revenue from operations of approximately $37.8 million and $11.7 million, respectively, an overall increase of approximately $26.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, when compared to the same period in 2022. The increase in revenue was primarily attributable and increase in healthcare operations of approximately $26.8 million as a result of the Progressive Care acquisition on July 1, 2023, and offset by a decrease in e-Commerce revenue of approximately $0.7 million.
Gross profit margins increased from approximately 21.3% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, to 30.0%for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The increase in gross profit margins during 2023 compared to 2022, was primarily attributable to the healthcare operations as a result of the Progressive Care acquisition on July 1, 2023.
Loss before other (income) expense increased by approximately $16.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, when compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 , as a result of the increase in gross profit of approximately $8.8 million, offset by the increase in operating expenses of approximately $24.8 million, which is mainly attributable to the goodwill impairment charge of approximately $13.9 million during 2023. See detailed discussion below.
Revenue
Our revenues were as follows (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 |
2022 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dollars |
% of Revenue |
Dollars |
% of Revenue |
$ Change |
% Change |
|||||||||||||||||||
| Sales of products, net: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Pharmacy prescription and other revenue, net of PBM fees |
$ | 21,412 | 57 | % | $ | - | - | % | $ | 21,412 | 100 | % | ||||||||||||
| e-Commerce revenue |
10,977 | 29 | % | 11,710 | 100 | % | (733 | ) | (6 | )% | ||||||||||||||
| Sub total |
32,389 | 86 | % | 11,710 | 100 | % | 20,679 | 177 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Revenues from services: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Pharmacy 340B contract revenue |
5,367 | 14 | % | - | - | % | 5,367 | 100 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Revenues, net |
$ | 37,756 | 100 | % | $ | 11,710 | 100 | % | 26,046 | 222 | % | |||||||||||||
Sales for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, consisted primarily of e-Commerce sales of satellite phones, tracking devices, accessories, airtime plans, and pharmacy prescription, and 340B contract revenues. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, overall revenues were approximately $37.8 million compared to $11.7 million of revenues for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, an increase in of approximately $26.0 million or 222.4%.
Total e-Commerce revenues were approximately $11.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, as compared to $11.7 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, a decrease of approximately $0.7 million or 6.3%. The decrease was due to non-recurring revenue of approximately $1.2 million as a result of the war in the Ukraine in 2022 versus 2023, government imposed regulations in Germany resulting in delays selling products in the German market of approximately $1.5 million, and offset by growth in other markets of approximately $2.0 million.
Total pharmacy prescription and 304B contract revenues were approximately $26.8 million for the six months ended December 31, 2023 as a result of the Progressive Care acquisition on July 1, 2023. The pharmacy filled approximately 251,000 prescriptions for the six months ended December 31, 2023
Operating Expenses.
Our operating expenses were as follows (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, |
||||||||||||||||
| 2023 |
2022 |
$ Change |
% Change |
|||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative |
$ | 9,910 | $ | 5,085 | $ | 4,825 | 95 | % | ||||||||
| Salaries, wages and payroll taxes |
6,643 | 2,565 | 4,078 | 159 | % | |||||||||||
| Goodwill impairment |
13,895 | - | 13,895 | 100 | % | |||||||||||
| Professional fees |
1,981 | 1,552 | 429 | 28 | % | |||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization |
2,110 | 490 | 1,620 | 331 | % | |||||||||||
| Operating expenses |
$ | 34,539 | $ | 9,692 | $ | 24,847 | 256 | % | ||||||||
Total operating expenses for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, were approximately $34.5 million, an increase of approximately $24.8 million on or 256.4%, from total operating expenses for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, of approximately $9.7 million. Factors contributing to the increase are described below.
Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses were approximately $9.9 million and $5.1 million for twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, an increase of approximately $4.8 million or 94.9%. The increase for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, was mainly attributable to the increase in stock-based compensation of approximately $2.4 million, other operating expenses as it relates to the e-Commerce operations of approximately $0.5 million, and approximately $1.9 million as it relates to operating expenses of the healthcare operations as a result of the Progressive Care acquisition on July 1, 2023.
Salaries, wages and payroll taxes were approximately $6.6 million and $2.6 million for twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, an increase of approximately $4.1 million or 159.0%. The increase was mainly attributable to the healthcare operations as a result of the Progressive Care acquisition as of July 1, 2023, of approximately $4.0 million and an increase in e-Commerce salaries and wages of approximately $0.1 million.
The company recorded a goodwill impairment charge of approximately $13.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 . We recorded goodwill of approximately $14.6 million as a result of the Progressive Care consolidation on July 1, 2023, net of the change in valuation allowance attributable to the business combination, and was assigned to our Pharmacy Operations segment. On December 31, 2023, we performed our annual goodwill impairment test by reporting unit to evaluate the carrying amount of goodwill as compared to its fair value. Based on the impairment test, it was determined the carrying amount of goodwill as of December 31, 2023 exceeded its fair value resulting in the Company recording an impairment charge of approximately $13.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, and was recorded to the Pharmacy Operations reporting segment. The remaining carry amount of goodwill as of December 31, 2023 was approximately $0.7 million and was allocated to the Pharmacy Operations reporting segment. See Note 14 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net.
Professional fees were approximately $2.0 million and $1.6 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, an increase of approximately $0.4 million or 27.6%. The increase was mainly attributable to legal and consulting fees as it relates to the healthcare operations as a result of the Progressive Care acquisition as of July 1, 2023, of approximately $0.4 million. Professional fees associated with our e-Commerce operations remained flat year over year.
Depreciation and amortization expenses were approximately $2.1 million and $0.5 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, an increase of approximately $1.6 million or 330.6%. The increase was mainly attributable to depreciation and amortization as it relates to the healthcare operations from the Progressive Care acquisition on July 1, 2023, of approximately $1.4 million.
Total Other Expense.
Our total other expense increased by approximately $1.1 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 when compared to same period in 2022, and was mainly due to interest received of approximately $599,000, favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates of approximately $236,000, management fees earned of approximately $115,000, and write off of aged liabilities associated with discontinued operations of approximately $201,000
Equity Method Investment.
We recorded a net gain in equity of our affiliate, Progressive Care, of approximately $11.4 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, as a result of a change in the accounting treatment from equity method to consolidation as of July 1, 2023. For the six months ended June 30, 2023, we recorded a net loss in the equity of our affiliate, Progressive Care, of approximately $1.4 million which was accounted for as an equity method investment. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 we recorded a net loss in the equity of our affiliate, Progressive Care, of approximately $1.7 million, accounted for an equity method investment. See Note 15 – Equity Method Investment.
Net Loss.
We recorded net losses of approximately $12.4 million and $9.2 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The increase was a result of the factors described above.
Comprehensive Income.
We recorded comprehensive (gains) losses for foreign currency translation adjustments of approximately ($107,000) and $129,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The change was primarily attributed to exchange rate variances.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity is the ability of a company to generate funds to support its current and future operations, satisfy its obligations, and otherwise operate on an ongoing basis. As of December 31, 2023, we had a cash balance of approximately $26.3 million. Our working capital was approximately $29.4 million at December 31, 2023.
Our current assets at December 31, 2023 increased 106.0% from December 31, 2022 primarily due to cash received during capital raise in April 2023 and Progressive Care consolidation as of July 1, 2023.
Our current liabilities at December 31, 2023 increased approximately $12.2 million from December 31, 2022 primarily due to Progressive Care consolidation as of July 1, 2023.
As of the date of this report, the Company’s existing cash resources and existing borrowing availability are sufficient to support planned operations for the next 12 months. As a result, management believes that the existing financial resources are sufficient to continue operating activities for at least one year past the issuance date of the financial statements.
| For the Year Ended December 31, |
||||||||
| 2023 |
2022 |
|||||||
| (in thousands) | (in thousands) | |||||||
| Net change in cash from: |
||||||||
| Operating activities |
$ | (3,596 | ) | $ | (3,602 | ) | ||
| Investing activities |
5,199 | (7,716 | ) | |||||
| Financing activities |
5,860 | 13,011 | ||||||
| Effect of exchange rate on cash |
(47 | ) | (70 | ) | ||||
| Change in cash |
7,416 | 1,623 | ||||||
| Cash at end of period |
$ | 26,307 | $ | 18,891 | ||||
Operating Activities
Net cash flows used by operating activities totaled approximately $3.6 million and $3.6 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and changed by approximately $0.0 million period over period. The unfavorable change of approximately $0.0 million was primarily attributable to the following:
- unfavorable change in net loss of approximately $3.3 million;
- favorable change in other non-cash items of approximately $6.6 million and include stock-based compensation, amortization, depreciation, loss in equity of equity method investment, and gain in equity method investment;
- unfavorable change in operating assets of approximately $5.7 million and mainly a result of increased accounts receivable and inventory due to the acquisitions of Progressive Care as of July 1, 2023;
- favorable change in operating liabilities of approximately $2.3 million and mainly a result of increased accounts payable due to the acquisition of Progressive Care as of July 1, 2023.
Investing Activities
Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities were approximately $5.2 million and ($7.7 million) for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and changed by approximately $12.9 million period over period. The favorable change of approximately $12.9 million was primarily attributable to the following:
- cash acquired in the acquisition of Progressive Care of approximately $7.4 million;
- non-recurring capital contributions of approximately $5.5 million to equity method investee, Progressive Care (approximately $1.5 million in 2023 vs. $7.0 million in 2022);
- fixed asset additions of approximately $0.1 million.
Financing Activities
Net cash flows provided by financing activities were approximately $5.9 million and $13.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and changed by approximately $7.2 million period over period. The cash provided by financing activities during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was primarily attributable to proceeds from capital raises during those periods offset by payments on loans.
Recent Financing Activities
January 2022 Private Placement of Common Stock
On December 31, 2021, after markets closed, a securities purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) was circulated to, and signatures were received from, certain institutional and accredited investors (the “December Investors”) in connection with the sale in a private placement by the Company of 2,229,950 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “December Offering”). On January 2, 2022, the Company delivered to December Investors a fully executed Purchase Agreement, which was dated December 31, 2021. The purchase price for the common stock sold in the December Offering was $3.24 per share, the closing transaction price reported by Nasdaq on December 31, 2021.
The closing of the December Offering occurred on January 5, 2022. The Company received gross proceeds from the sale of the common stock in the December Offering of approximately $7.2 million. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the December Offering for general corporate purposes, including potential acquisitions and joint ventures. Approximately 73% of funds raised in the December Offering were secured from existing shareholders and from the members of the Company’s senior management and Board of Directors.
In connection with the December Offering, the Company entered into a registration rights agreement with the December Investors (the “Registration Rights Agreement”), pursuant to which, among other things, the Company prepared and filed with the SEC a registration statement to register for resale the shares of the Company’s common stock sold in the Offering.
The shares of common stock offered and sold in the December Offering were sold in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and Rule 506 of Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act and corresponding provisions of state securities or “blue sky” laws.
The terms of the transaction disclosed above, including the provisions of the Purchase Agreement and Registration Rights Agreement, were approved by the Board of Directors and because some of the securities were offered and sold to officers and directors of the Company, such terms were separately reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
December 2022 Private Placement of Common Stock
On December 9, 2022, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain institutional and accredited investors for the sale by the Company in a private placement of 4,575,429 units, each unit comprising (i) one share of the Company’s common stock, and (ii) one warrant to purchase one share of common stock. The offering price of the units was $1.75 per unit. The warrants included in the units are exercisable at a price of $1.75 per share and expire three years from the date of issuance.
The offering closed on December 14, 2022, and the Company received gross proceeds of approximately $8.0 million for the units. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the offering for working capital needs, potential acquisitions, joint ventures, and ongoing business transition activities.
In connection with the offering, the Company entered into a registration rights agreement, pursuant to which, among other things, the Company prepared and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a registration statement to register for resale the shares of Common Stock sold in the offering and the shares of Common Stock underlying the Warrants.
The securities offered and sold in the December Offering were sold in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and Rule 506 of Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act and corresponding provisions of state securities or “blue sky” laws.
The terms of the transaction disclosed above, including the provisions of the securities purchase agreement and registration rights agreement, were approved by the Board of Directors and because some of the securities were offered and sold to officers and directors of the Company, such terms were separately reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
April 2023 Private Placement of Common Stock
On April 5, 2023, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with an accredited investor (the “Investor”) for the sale by the Company in a private placement of 3,428,571 shares of the Company’s common stock, $0.0001 par value per share (the “Common Stock”). The offering price of the Common Stock was $1.75 per share, the closing price of the Common Stock on April 4, 2023. On April 11, 2023, the Private Placement closed. Upon the closing of the Private Placement, the Company received gross proceeds of approximately $6.0 million. The Company sold the Common Stock to the Investor in reliance on the exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and Rule 506 of Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act and corresponding provisions of state securities or “blue sky” laws. The Investor represented that it is acquiring the Common Stock for investment only and not with a view towards, or for resale in connection with, the public sale or distribution thereof. Accordingly, the Common Stock has not been registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration under the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws.
Acquisition of Progressive Care Inc.
See the section above entitled "- Overview - Business acquisition of Progressive Care, Inc."
Off-balance Sheet Arrangements
We have not entered into any other financial guarantees or other commitments to guarantee the payment obligations of any third parties. We have not entered any derivative contracts that are indexed to our shares and classified as stockholder’s equity or that are not reflected in our consolidated financial statements. Furthermore, we do not have any retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to an unconsolidated entity that serves as credit, liquidity or market risk support to such entity.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.
Consistent with the rules applicable to “Smaller Reporting Companies” we have omitted information required by this Item.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
Consolidated Financial Statements and supplementary data, together with the report of RBSM LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, are included in Part IV (see F-pages) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 9. Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
Not applicable.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.
Management’s Conclusions Regarding Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures.
Based on management’s evaluation (with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)), as of the end of the period covered by this report, our CEO and CFO have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15I and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)), are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Inherent Limitations on Controls.
Management, including the CEO and CFO, does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures will prevent or detect all errors and fraud. Any control system, no matter how well designed and operated, is based upon certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that its objectives will be met. Further, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to errors or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Our internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that: (a) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect our transactions and dispositions of assets; (b) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and Board of Directors; and (c) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements. Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer or persons performing similar functions to provide reasonable assurance to our management and board of directors regarding the reliability of financial reporting and preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this assessment our management believes that, as of December 31, 2023, our internal control over financial reporting is effective under those criteria.
Changes in internal control over financial reporting.
There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during our fourth fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2023, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
This Annual Report on Form 10-K does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules from the SEC that permit us to provide only management’s report in this annual report.
Progressive Care became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company on July 1, 2023. As permitted by guidance issued by the SEC, companies are allowed to exclude certain acquisitions from their assessment of internal control over financial reporting during the first year following an acquisition. Accordingly, Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting excludes Progressive Care from management’s assessment of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. The Progressive Care acquisition represented approximately 63% of total consolidated assets at December 31, 2023 and approximately 71% of our total consolidated revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Rule 10b5-1 Trading Arrangement
During the three months ended December 31, 2023, director or officer of the Company adopted or terminated any “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement,” as each term is defined in Item 408(a) of Regulation S-K.
Item 9C. Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections.
Not applicable.
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
The following table sets forth the names and ages of all of our directors and executive officers as of March 26, 2024. Our officers are appointed by, and serve at the pleasure of, the Board.
| Name |
Age |
Position |
|||
| Charles M. Fernandez |
62 | Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Director |
|||
| Cecile Munnik |
46 | Chief Financial Officer |
|||
| Robert Bedwell |
65 |
Chief Compliance Officer |
|||
| David Phipps |
58 | President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations, Director |
|||
| Douglas S. Ellenoff |
64 | Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist, Director |
|||
| Rodney Barreto |
66 | Director |
|||
| Hector Delgado |
55 |
Director |
|||
| Kendall W. Carpenter |
68 | Director |
|||
| Louis Cusimano |
77 | Director |
|||
| John E. Miller |
82 | Director |
|||
| Maria Cristina Fernandez |
58 |
Director |
|||
Charles M. Fernandez, Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Director
Mr. Fernandez has served as Executive Chairman of the Company since May 28, 2021 and Chief Executive Officer of the Company since June 2, 2021. Prior to joining the Company Mr. Fernandez was a co-founder and the Chairman of Kempstar (a large-scale marketer of energy and agricultural commodities) from November 2015 through June 2020; a member of the Supervisory Board of Smartrac (a RFID products and IoT solutions) from January 2019 through March 2020; Chief Executive Officer of eApeiron Solutions (a brand protection and e-commerce company) from June 2016 through December 2018; served as the founder and Chief Investment Officer of Barnstar Funds, LP (a fund established in 2012 for investment in special situations across the capital markets) from October 2012 through March 2016; and co-founder and Chairman of Lakeview Health Systems, LLC (a private pay, specialized hospital company) from December 2003 through December 2012. Mr. Fernandez was chosen to serve as a director of the Company based on his 30 years’ experience identifying profitable start-up and dislocation opportunities, building significant value and executing both private and public exit strategies.
Cecile Munnik, Chief Financial Officer
Ms. Munnik has served as Chief Financial Officer of the Company since November 14, 2022. Ms. Munnik also serves as Chief Financial Officer of Progressive Care, a position she has held since October 2020. Ms. Munnik has over fifteen years of accounting and finance experience, and has served in finance and accounting leadership positions for companies and business units with annual revenues ranging from $100M to $3B. Prior to joining Progressive Care, Ms. Munnik served as Director of Asset Management at Unified Women’s Healthcare, a single-specialty management services organization to support Ob-Gyn practices from November 2018 through April 2020. She joined The Service Companies as Director of Finance in May 2017 through October 2018. Prior to The Service Companies, she worked at Lennox International for eleven years. She joined Lennox in June 2006 as Sr. Internal Auditor and left in May 2017 as Manager of Financial Planning and Analysis. Ms. Munnik has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Pretoria (South Africa) and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Accountant (CA). She serves on the board of Damascus Road Partners, which is a group of social enterprise investors who invest charitable capital to sustainably address human suffering. We believe Ms. Munnik is well-qualified to serve as Chief Financial Officer of the Company based on her extensive accounting and finance experience, serving for more than fifteen years in finance and accounting leadership positions for companies and business units.
Robert Bedwell, Chief Compliance Officer
Mr. Bedwell has served as Chief Compliance Officer of the Company since November 7, 2022. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Bedwell served as Director of Administrative Services at Progressive Care, from October 2020 to the present, where he worked on contractual, legal, and compliance matters, and as their Controller from January 2017 until September 2020. From 2011 to 2016, Mr. Bedwell served as an Audit Partner or Director at several national and regional public accounting firms. Mr. Bedwell has also been a national speaker and instructor on numerous topics for Surgent Professional Education, the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Mr. Bedwell holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance from Upsala College in East Orange, New Jersey, and a Masters in Accounting from Florida Atlantic University. Mr. Bedwell is also a Certified Public Accountant. We believe Mr. Bedwell is well-qualified to serve as Chief Compliance Officer of the Company based on his more than forty-two years of audit, accounting, financial reporting, and compliance experience.
David Phipps, President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations and Director
Mr. Phipps has served as Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations since June 2, 2021, and as Director since February 24, 2015. Mr. Phipps has also served as Managing Director of the Company’s wholly owned UK subsidiary, Global Telesat Communications LTD (“GTC”), since 2008. Mr. Phipps previously served as Chairman of the Board from February 24, 2015 until June 2, 2021, and Chief Executive Officer from February 25, 2015 until June 2, 2021. Mr. Phipps has over twenty years of experience in the communications industry, during which time he has overseen acquisitions, mergers and capital raising activities. Mr. Phipps also has 35 years of experience in investment management, finance, and operational roles at several private and public companies. . We believe Mr. Phipps is well-qualified to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations and Director of the Company based on his depth of knowledge and experience in the communications industry.
Douglas S. Ellenoff, Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist and Director
Mr. Ellenoff has served as Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist of the Company since August 24, 2021. Mr. Ellenoff is a partner at Ellenoff Grossman, & Schole LLP, a law firm based in New York City with more than 120 professionals, which he founded in 1992. Mr. Ellenoff’s practice is concentrated in corporate and securities, with a focus in business transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate financings. Mr. Ellenoff has represented companies in connection with their initial public offerings, secondary public offerings, PIPEs, crowdfunding, regulatory compliance, as well as strategic initiatives and general corporate governance matters. Mr. Ellenoff has also served as Managing Member at ESQVest LLP, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage legal technology companies, since its founding in 2014. We believe Mr. Ellenoff is well-qualified to serve as Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist of the Company based on his broad experience in capital markets and corporate governance matters.
Rodney Barreto, Director
Mr. Barreto has served on the Board of Directors since January 20, 2022. He is currently President and Chief Executive Officer of the Barreto Group and of Barreto Hospitality, which he founded in 1988 and 2020, respectively. The Barreto Group is a diversified company specializing in corporate and public affairs consulting, real estate investment, and development. Barreto Hospitality is the food, beverage, and hospitality arm of the Barreto Group boasting fine dining and entertainment venues across South Florida. Mr. Barreto is also a partner of Capital City Consulting Miami, LLC, a leading public affairs and governmental consulting firm in the State of Florida. Capital City Consulting develops and manages effective corporate and public affairs strategies designed to achieve specific business results for its clients. Mr. Barreto is also the Chief Executive Officer of Barreto Capital, LLC, a private money lender, since November 2018. Mr. Barreto is also the Chairman of the Miami Super Bowl Host Committee, which he has chaired a record three times in the years 2007, 2010, and 2020. The perennial Chairman, Mr. Barreto also serves as Chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission having been appointed by three Florida Governors, namely Governor Jeb Bush, Governor Charlie Crist, and current Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. We believe Mr. Barreto is well-qualified to serve as a director of the Company based on his significant leadership and entrepreneurial experience.
Hector Delgado, Director
Mr. Delgado has served on the Board of Directors since May 27, 2015. Lieutenant Commander Delgado is a retired United States Navy SEAL, with over twenty-nine years of active and reserve service. In 2006, he was mobilized with SEAL Team THREE for a combat tour in Ramadi, Iraq, receiving a Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V”. He has served with SEAL Teams TWO, THREE, FOUR, EIGHTEEN and Special Operations Command Central and South. His tours of duty have included the Middle East, Europe, Africa and South America. Mr. Delgado has a wealth of expertise that has been refined not only in a military environment, but also extensively in the governmental sector, where he has been responsible for budgets, training, and logistics for thousands of people. He has trained thousands of students in the use of weapons, demolition, physical security and executive protection. Mr. Delgado is also a retired Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Palm Beach County, Florida. Throughout his career, Special Agent Delgado served in a number of positions including being a member of the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), Miami field office. Over the past fifteen years Mr. Delgado has conducted Active Shooter Response Training seminars around the country and is recognized as an expert in this field. He has served on Governor DeSantis’s Committee on Public Safety during the Governor’s transition. Mr. Delgado is also a successful entrepreneur and patent holder, having started, managed, and sold numerous enterprises. He is co-founder of ASR Alert Systems, a newly developed technology designed to drastically enhance response time of law enforcement and victims in an active shooter event. The ASR Threat Alert System simultaneously alerts law enforcement, end users of the system, 911-disptach, and nearest trauma hospitals within seconds. Mr. Delgado’s core values of honesty, integrity, and generosity are what have helped propel him to his current success. These same qualities inspire him to give back to the communities in which he resides. He mentors teenagers who make career decisions to enlist in the military and he sits on the Naval Academy selection board on behalf of Senator Marco Rubio. As a member of the Board of Directors of the National Navy SEAL Museum, Mr. Delgado plays an instrumental role in the Museum’s continued growth and development.
Kendall W. Carpenter, Director
Ms. Carpenter has served on the Board of Directors since May 28, 2021. From 2006 to 2019, Ms. Carpenter was Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer of ComSovereign Holding Corp. (COMS) and its predecessor entities, a Nasdaq company in the aviation industry, where she was responsible for SEC compliance and reporting, accounting, audit, banking, HR and benefits, payroll, corporate administration, board governance, legal, contracts, and risk management. Ms. Carpenter holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Oklahoma State University, and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license (inactive) in the State of Oklahoma. Ms. Carpenter is also a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). We believe Ms. Carpenter is well-qualified to serve as a director of the Company based on her leadership positions in public companies, as well as her expertise in compliance and finance.
Louis Cusimano, Director
Mr. Cusimano has served on the Board of Directors since May 28, 2021. Mr. Cusimano’s dual career with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the United States Air Force Reserve (USAF) spanned three decades of continuous service. Prior to retiring from the FAA in May 2003, Mr. Cusimano was a Senior Executive and Deputy Director of the FAA’s Flight Standards Service. In this role, Mr. Cusimano maintained close and continuous liaison with representatives of Congress, the aviation industry, the general public, all air carriers, the national military establishment, other federal agencies, foreign flight operations, and airworthiness authorities. Mr. Cusimano also served as “Acting Director” and Division Manager of the Air Transportation Division and Certification and Surveillance Division at the FAA. Mr. Cusimano also had a parallel career as an Air Force officer and pilot for 30 years. Mr. Cusimano attained the rank of full colonel, and retired as Wing Commander, 459th Airlift Wing. Mr. Cusimano was a senior ranking officer in charge of over 1,400 reservists and nine C-141B/C strategic airlift aircraft, which conducted world-wide combat airlift and airlift support missions for the Air Mobility Command. Mr. Cusimano is a highly decorated officer and retired with honors on June 1, 2000. Mr. Cusimano holds an airline transport pilot certificate, flight engineer certificate, and flight instructor certificate with fixed wing, rotorcraft, and instrument instructor ratings. Mr. Cusimano is also a certified A&P Mechanic with Inspector Authorization authority. Mr. Cusimano earned a bachelor’s degree in Experimental Psychology from Hofstra University in 1969 and completed National Security Management School in 1987. Mr. Cusimano has held top secret clearances at the FAA and with the Air Force. Mr. Cusimano is certified as an ISO-9000:2000 Auditor with the International Register of Certificated Auditors. We believe Mr. Cusimano is well-qualified to serve as a director of the Company based on his more than thirty-five years of experience in government and professional roles.
John E. Miller, Director
Mr. Miller has served on the Board of Directors since May 28, 2021. Mr. Miller has served as the owner/consultant at Miller Analytics, LLC since September 2007. From December 2017 to November 2019, Mr. Miller served as a member of the board of directors of Drone Aviation Holding Corp. Prior to this, Mr. Miller served over thirty-four years in the US Army. Commissioned as an Infantry Officer, he served in line units, staff positions, and Army Schools, and attained the title of Lieutenant General before retiring. Mr. Miller had multiple assignments at the US Army Command and General Staff College, where he taught Tactics and Wargaming Instructor and served as the Deputy Commandant, and later Commandant. Mr. Miller holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Missouri State University and a master’s degree in Operations Research from Georgia Tech. Mr. Miller is also a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College and the Army War College. Mr. Miller attended Executive Development programs at Yale University, the Menninger Foundation and Leadership at the Peak in Denver, CO. We believe Mr. Miller is well-qualified to serve as a director of the Company based on his leadership, knowledge of, and relationships in aerospace industries, as well as his familiarity with the military and governmental agencies.
Maria Cristina Fernandez, Director
Ms. Fernandez was appointed to the Board of Directors on September 28, 2022. Ms. Fernandez has extensive experience in achieving growth with new technologies, and motivating teams and customers in challenging business environments. She also has extensive international experience leading global and regional teams in the US, Latin America and Asia. Prior to joining NextPlat, Ms. Fernandez served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of eApeiron Solutions from May 2016 to July 2019 . Before that, Ms. Fernandez served as the Global Vice President/General Manager of Xerox Corporation’s Continuous Feed Inkjet Business, from July 2015 to May 2016.
No director is related to any other director or executive officer of our company or our subsidiaries, and, there are no arrangements or understandings between a director and any other person pursuant to which such person was elected as director.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
During the past ten years, none of our officers, directors, promoters or control persons have been involved in any legal proceedings as described in Item 401(f) of Regulation S-K.
Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports
Based solely upon a review of reports on Forms 3, 4 and 5 and any amendments thereto furnished to the Company pursuant to Section 16 of the Exchange Act, the Company believes that each of the following reporting persons failed to timely file a Section 16(a) report during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023:
| Name | Number of Late Reports | Number of Transactions that were Not Reported on a Timely Basis | ||||||
| Charles M. Fernandez | 4 | 5 | ||||||
| Kendall W. Carpenter | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Maria Cristina Fernandez | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Louis Cusimano | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Hector Delgado | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| John E. Miller | 1 | 1 | ||||||
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
The Board has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that is applicable to the Company and to all our directors and officers and persons performing similar functions, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer. A copy of the Company’s Code of Ethics may be obtained on our website at www.NextPlat.com. We intend to disclose future amendments to such code, or any waivers of its requirements, applicable to any principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions or our directors on our website identified above. The inclusion of our website address in this Annual Report on Form 10-K does not include or incorporate by reference the information on our website into this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Audit Committee of the Board of Directors
The members of the Audit Committee are Rodney Barreto, Maria Cristina Fernandez, and Louis Cusimano. Each member of the Audit Committee is independent as defined by the Nasdaq Rules. Rodney Barreto is the Chairperson of the Audit Committee.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
Executive Officer Compensation
Our named executive officers for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, which consist of our principal executive officer and our two other most highly compensated executive officers, are: (i) Charles M. Fernandez, our chief executive officer and executive chairman; (ii) David Phipps, our president and chief executive officer of global operations, and (iii) Douglas Ellenoff, our vice chairman and chief business development strategist.
Summary Compensation Table
The table below summarizes all compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to our named executive officers (as defined in Item 402(m)(2) of Regulation S-K) for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.
| Name and Principal Position |
Year |
Salary ($) |
Bonus ($)(1) |
Stock Awards ($)(2) |
Option Awards ($)(2) |
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) |
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings($) |
All Other Compensation ($)(3) |
Total ($) |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Charles M. Fernandez Chief Executive Officer and Chairman (3)(4) |
2023 |
$ | 468,000 | $ | 286,000 | $ | 1,931,000 | $ | 490,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 99,000 | $ | 3,274,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| 2022 |
$ | 350,000 | $ | 36,000 | $ | 1,755,000 | $ | 248,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 73,000 | $ | 2,462,000 | |||||||||||||||||
| David Phipps President of NextPlat and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations. Former* Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of NextPlat (3)(5) |
2023 |
$ | 350,000 | $ | 36,000 | $ | - | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 16,000 | $ | 402,000 | |||||||||||||||||
| 2022 |
$ | 355,000 | $ | 36,000 | $ | - | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 15,000 | $ | 406,000 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Douglas Ellenoff Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist (6) |
2023 |
$ | - | $ | - | $ | 137,000 | $ | 619,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 756,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| 2022 |
$ | - | $ | - | $ | 107,000 | $ | 486,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 593,000 | |||||||||||||||||
*For information regarding the Company’s current executive officers is provided above in the section entitled “Information About Directors and Executive Officers.”
|
|
| (1) |
On October 7, 2021, on the approval and recommendation of the Compensation Committee, the Board approved a plan to make bonus payments of $3,000 per month (each, a “Monthly Bonus”) to each of Mr. Fernandez and Mr. Phipps. The Monthly Bonus payments were approved in recognition of Messrs. Fernandez’s and Phipps’ contributions to the Company. The Monthly Bonus payments will renew on a quarterly basis until terminated by the Board upon 30 days’ prior notice to Messrs. Fernandez and Phipps. |
|
| (2) |
Amounts shown in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value calculated in accordance with FASB ASC 718 for the respective fiscal year with respect to stock options granted to our named executive officers. Amounts reflect our accounting for these option grants and do not necessarily correspond to the actual values that may be realized by our named executive officers. The grant date fair values of these option grants were calculated at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The assumptions used for the valuations are set forth in Note 20 – Stock-Based Compensation in the Notes included in the Annual Report. Pursuant to SEC rules, we disregarded the estimates of forfeitures related to service-based vesting conditions. |
|
| (3) |
Categories and values of compensation reported in “All Other Compensation” are set forth in the following table: |
|
| Name |
Year |
Health Insurance Coverage ($) |
Automobile Allowance ($) |
Allowance Towards Professional Fees ($) |
Allowance Towards Travel Fees ($) |
Board of Director Compensation ($) |
Total ($) |
||||||||||||||||||
| Charles M. Fernandez |
2023 |
$ | 67,000 | $ | 12,000 | $ | 10,000 | $ | 10,000 | $ | - | $ | 99,000 | ||||||||||||
| 2022 |
$ | 51,000 | $ | 12,000 | $ | 10,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 73,000 | |||||||||||||
| David Phipps |
2023 |
$ | 4,000 | $ | 12,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 16,000 | ||||||||||||
| 2022 |
$ | 3,000 | $ | 12,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 15,000 | |||||||||||||
| Douglas Ellenoff |
2023 |
$ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | ||||||||||||
| 2022 |
$ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | |||||||||||||
| (4) |
Mr. Fernandez has served as the Company’s Executive Chairman since May 28, 2021 and its Chief Executive Officer since June 5, 2021. Mr. Phipps served as the President of the Company since February 19, 2015 and as a member of the Board since February 24, 2015, and Chairman of the Board from February 24, 2015 until May 23, 2021 and Chief Executive Officer of the Company from February 25, 2015 to June 5, 2021. |
Mr. Fernandez received the following equity awards in 2023:
| ● | Award of 39,000 shares of restricted common stock of the Company on February 28, 2023. All shares were fully vested and issued on the grant date. |
| ● | Award of 325,000 shares of restricted common stock of the Company on April 3, 2023. All shares were fully vested an issued on the grant date. |
| ● | Award of options to purchase 200,000 shares of common stock of the Company on April 14, 2023 at an exercise price of $2.45 per share. The option has a five year term and was fully vested upon the grant date. |
Mr. Fernandez received the following equity awards in 2022:
| ● |
Issuance of 200,000 shares of restricted common stock of the Company pursuant to Mr. Fernandez’s Employment Agreement (“the June Agreement”). All shares were fully vested and issued on the Effective Vesting Date, which was May 28, 2022. |
| ● |
Award of 116,000 shares of restricted common stock of the Company under the 2021 Plan. All shares were fully vested and issued on the Effective Grant Date, which was September 20,2022. |
| ● |
Award of an option under the 2021 Plan to buy 70,000 shares of Company common stock at an exercise price of $2.13 per share. The option fully vested on July 1, 2022.The option has a term of 10 years. |
| (5) |
Mr. Fernandez received an additional cash bonus of $250,000 in 2023. |
| (6) |
Mr. Ellenoff received the following equity awards pursuant to his Employment Agreement, dated August 24, 2021, by and between the Company and Mr. Ellenoff (the “Ellenoff Employment Agreement”), |
| ● |
Under the terms of the Ellenoff Employment Agreement, Mr. Ellenoff was awarded, in lieu of cash compensation: (i) a restricted stock award of 100,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company, 40,000 of which were issued on September 9, 2021, and vested immediately, with an additional 20,000 shares of restricted stock to be issued and to vest on each of August 24, 2022, August 24, 2023 and August 24, 2024, provided Mr. Ellenoff continues to serve on the Board of Directors at any time during the year in which the restricted stock is to vest, (ii) options to purchase a total of 1,500,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock, 300,000 of which were vested immediately, 150,000 of which will vest on each of the next three annual anniversaries of the commencement of his employment, and the remaining 750,000 of which will vest at the rate of 250,000 per year on each of the first three anniversaries of the commencement of his employment if during each such year Mr. Ellenoff introduces the Company to twelve (12) or more potential Business Transactions (as defined in the Ellenoff Agreement and which transactions need not be consummated); provided that the Company’s Chief Executive Officer may, in his sole discretion, waive the vesting requirement in any given year. Such options will have an exercise price of $5.35 per share and will terminate 5 years after they vest. These equity awards to Mr. Ellenoff were material to induce Mr. Ellenoff to enter into the Ellenoff Agreement and were issued outside of a shareholder approved stock or option plan pursuant to the Nasdaq “inducement grant” exception (Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635I(4)). |
Narrative to Summary Compensation Table
Annual Base Salary
The terms of Mr. Phipps compensation are set forth in his Employment Agreement, dated June 5, 2021, which was effective June 2, 2021 (as amended, the “2021 Phipps Agreement”), which sets Mr. Phipps’ annual base compensation at $350,000. The terms of Mr. Fernandez’s compensation are set forth in his Employment Agreement, dated June 2, 2021 (as amended, the “June Agreement”), which sets Mr. Fernandez’s annual base compensation at $525,000. The terms of Mr. Ellenoff’s compensation are set forth in the Ellenoff Employment Agreement which provides for equity compensation in lieu of a base cash compensation arrangement. The 2021 Phipps Employment Agreement, the June Agreement and the Ellenoff Employment Agreement are described below under the section titled “Employment Agreements”.
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recorded stock-based compensation of approximately $5.4 million and $3.0 million, respectively.
Long-Term Incentives
2018 Incentive Plan
On June 14, 2018, our Board of Directors approved the 2018 Incentive Plan (the “2018 Plan”). The purpose of the 2018 Plan is to provide a means for the Company to continue to attract, motivate and retain management, key employees, consultants and other independent contractors, and to provide these individuals with greater incentive for their service to the Company by linking their interests in the Company’s success with those of the Company and its shareholders. An award may also be granted to any consultant, agent, advisor or independent contractor for bona fide services rendered to the Company or any Related Company (as defined in the 2018 Plan) that; are not in connection with the offer and sale of the Company’s securities in a capital raising transaction, and do not directly or indirectly promote or maintain a market for the Company’s securities. The 2018 Plan is administered by the Board or its Compensation Committee and may grant Options designated as Incentive Stock Options or Nonqualified Stock Options. The 2018 Plan provides that up to a maximum of 13,333 shares of the Company’s common stock (subject to adjustment) are available for issuance under the 2018 Plan. Subject to earlier termination in accordance with the terms of the 2018 Plan and the instrument evidencing the option, the maximum term of an incentive stock option shall not exceed ten years, and in the case of an incentive stock option granted to a Ten Percent Stockholder (as defined in the 2018 Plan), shall not exceed five years. Any portion of an option that is not vested and exercisable on the date of a plan participant’s Termination of Service (as defined in the 2018 Plan) shall expire on such date. In the event of a Change in Control (as defined in the 2018 Plan); all outstanding awards, other than performance shares and performance units, shall become fully and immediately exercisable, and all applicable deferral and restriction limitations or forfeiture provisions shall lapse, immediately prior to the Change in Control and shall terminate at the effective time of the Change in Control; provided, however, that with respect to a Change in Control that is a Company Transaction (as defined in the 2018 Plan), such awards shall become fully and immediately exercisable, and all applicable deferral and restriction limitations or forfeiture provisions shall lapse, only if and to the extent such awards are not converted, assumed or replaced by the Successor Company (as defined in the 2018 Plan).
Amended and Restated 2020 Equity Incentive Plan
On August 21, 2020, the Company’s Board of Directors approved and adopted the Company’s 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2020 Plan”) in order to provide a means for the Company to continue to attract, motivate and retain management, key employees, directors and consultants. On December 31, 2021, the Company’s Board of Directors approved and adopted an amendment that increased the number of shares available for issuance under the 2020 Plan from 450,000 shares to 800,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. On August 10, 2021, the Company’s Board of Directors further amended the 2020 Plan and adopted and approved an Amended and Restated 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (the “A&R 2020 Plan”), in order to, among other things: (i) clarify that the exercise price of stock options will be set at “Fair Market Value,” and (ii) make conforming revision to reflect the 1-for-5 reverse split that was effective on May 28, 2021. The A&R 2020 Plan was approved by the Company’s stockholders on December 16, 2021, at the Company’s 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
The A&R 2020 Plan provides for discretionary awards of, among others, stock options, stock awards, stock unit awards and stock appreciation rights to participants. Each award made under the A&R 2020 Plan will be evidenced by a written award agreement specifying the terms and conditions of the award as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, consistent with the terms of the A&R 2020 Plan. All employees, directors, and consultants of the Company and its subsidiaries are eligible to receive awards under the A&R 2020 Plan.
The A&R 2020 Plan is administered by the “Committee” which is defined in the A&R 2020 Plan as the Compensation Committee of the Board or such other committee as may be designated by the Board from time to time to administer the Plan, or, if no such committee has been designated at the time of any grants, it shall mean the Board.
The number of shares of common stock that may be issued under the A&R 2020 Plan is 800,000. Shares issuable under the A&R 2020 Plan may be authorized but unissued shares or treasury shares. If there is a lapse, forfeiture, expiration, termination or cancellation of any award made under the A&R 2020 Plan for any reason, the shares subject to the award will again be available for issuance. Any shares subject to an award that are delivered to us by a participant, or withheld by us on behalf of a participant, as payment for an award or payment of withholding taxes due in connection with an award will not again be available for issuance, and all such shares will count toward the number of shares issued under the A&R 2020 Plan. The number of common shares issuable under the A&R 2020 Plan is subject to adjustment, in the event of any reorganization, recapitalization, stock split, stock distribution, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, subdivision, consolidation or exchange of shares, any change in the capital structure of the company or any similar corporate transaction. In each case, the Committee has the discretion to make adjustments it deems necessary to preserve the intended benefits under the A&R 2020 Plan. No award granted under the A&R 2020 Plan may be transferred, except by will, the laws of descent and distribution.
The maximum number of shares subject to Awards granted under the A&R 2020 Plan or otherwise during any one calendar year to any Director for service on the Board (other than to Mr. Phipps and the Company’s CEO and President, if serving on the Board, to whom no annual limit is applicable), taken together with any cash fees paid by the Company to such Director during such calendar year for service on the Board, will not exceed $100,000 in total value (calculating the value of any such Awards based on the grant date fair value or such value as determined by the Board, at its discretion, of such Awards for financial reporting purposes).
The Committee may amend any award agreement at any time, provided that no amendment may adversely affect the right of any participant under any agreement in any material way without the written consent of the participant, unless such amendment is required by applicable law, regulation or stock exchange rule. The Board may terminate, suspend or amend the A&R 2020 Plan, in whole or in part, from time to time, without the approval of the shareholders, unless such approval is required by applicable law, regulation or stock exchange rule, and provided that no amendment may adversely affect the right of any participant under any outstanding award in any material way without the written consent of the participant, unless such amendment is required by applicable law, regulation or rule of any stock exchange on which the shares are listed. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the A&R 2020 Plan nor any outstanding award agreement can be amended in a way that results in the repricing of a stock option. Repricing is broadly defined to include reducing the exercise price of a stock option or cancelling a stock option in exchange for cash, other stock options with a lower exercise price or other stock awards. No awards may be granted under the A&R 2020 Plan on or after the tenth anniversary of the effective date of the A&R 2020 Plan.
2021 Incentive Award Plan
The Company’s Board of Directors approved and adopted the 2021 Incentive Award Plan (“2021 Plan”), subject to stockholder approval, on August 10, 2021. The 2021 Plan was approved by the Company’s stockholders on December 16, 2021, at the Company’s 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
The purpose of the 2021 Plan is to enhance the Company’s ability to attract, retain and motivate persons who make (or are expected to make) important contributions to the Company and its subsidiaries by providing these individuals with equity ownership opportunities.
The number of shares initially available for issuance under awards granted pursuant to the 2021 Plan is 768,819 shares of common stock. The number of shares initially available for issuance will be increased on January 1 of each calendar year beginning in 2022 and ending in 2031, by an amount equal to the lesser (A) an amount such that the resulting sum (the new “Overall Share Limit”) is equal to 12% of the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock outstanding on the final day of the immediately preceding calendar year and (B) such smaller number of shares of Common Stock as is determined by the Board. Shares issued under the 2021 Plan may be authorized but unissued shares, shares purchased in the open market or treasury shares. If an award under the 2021 Plan expires, lapses or is terminated, exchanged for cash, surrendered to an exchange program, repurchased, cancelled without having been fully exercised or forfeited, any shares subject to such award will, as applicable, become or again be available for new grants under the 2021 Plan.
All employees, directors, and consultants of the Company and its subsidiaries are eligible to receive awards under the 2021 Plan. As of December 31, 2022, eighteen individuals are eligible to receive awards under the 2021 Plan.
The 2021 Plan is generally administered by the Board, which may delegate its duties and responsibilities to committees of Board and or officers of the Company (referred to collectively as the “plan administrator”). The plan administrator will have the authority to make all determinations and interpretations under, prescribe all forms for use with, and adopt rules for the administration of, the 2021 Plan, subject to its express terms and conditions. The plan administrator will also set the terms and conditions of all awards under the 2021 Plan, including any vesting and vesting acceleration conditions. The plan administrator may also institute and determine the terms and conditions of an “exchange program,” which could provide for the surrender or cancellation, transfer, or reduction or increase of exercise price, of outstanding awards, subject to the limitations provided for in the Incentive Award Plan.
The 2021 Plan provides for the grant of stock options, including incentive stock options, or ISOs, and nonqualified stock options, or NSOs; restricted stock; dividend equivalents; restricted stock units, or RSUs; stock appreciation rights, or SARs; and other stock or cash-based awards. All awards under the 2021 Plan will be set forth in award agreements, which will detail the terms and conditions of the awards, including any applicable vesting and payment terms and post-termination exercise limitations.
Other Stock or Cash Based Awards may be granted to participants, including awards entitling participants to receive Shares to be delivered in the future and including annual or other periodic or long-term cash bonus awards (whether based on specified performance criteria or otherwise), in each case subject to any conditions and limitations in the 2021 Plan. The plan administrator will determine the terms and conditions of other stock or cash-based awards.
Performance awards include any of the foregoing awards that are granted subject to vesting and/or payment based on the attainment of specified performance goals or other criteria the plan administrator may determine, which may or may not be objectively determinable. Performance criteria upon which performance goals are established by the plan administrator.
In connection with certain transactions and events affecting the Company’s Common Stock, including a change in control (as defined in the 2021 Plan), or change in any applicable laws or accounting principles, the plan administrator has broad discretion to take action under the 2021 Plan to prevent the dilution or enlargement of intended benefits, facilitate such transaction or event, or give effect to such change in applicable laws or accounting principles. This includes canceling awards in exchange for either an amount in cash or other property with a value equal to the amount that would have been obtained upon exercise or settlement of the vested portion of such award or realization of the participant’s rights under the vested portion of such award, accelerating the vesting of awards, providing for the assumption or substitution of awards by a successor entity, adjusting the number and type of shares available, replacing awards with other rights or property and/or terminating awards under the 2021 Plan.
Equity Awards
The following table sets forth certain information concerning equity awards for our named executive officers at December 31, 2023. The market values of the Stock Awards reported in this table are calculated based on the closing market price of the Common Stock on Nasdaq on December 29, 2023, which was $1.65 per share.
| Outstanding Equity Awards At Fiscal Year-End |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Option Awards |
Stock Awards |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Name |
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options(#) Exercisable |
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Unexercisable |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Unearned Options (#) |
Option Exercise Price ($)\ |
Option Expiration Date |
Number of Shares or Shares of Stock That Have Not Vested (#) |
Market Value of Shares or Shares of Stock That Have Not Vested ($) |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned Shares, Shares or Other Rights That Have Not Vested (#) |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Shares or Other Rights That Have Not Vested ($) |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Charles M. Fernandez |
75,000 | - | - | $ | 3.81 | 12/16/2031 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 200,000 | (1 | ) | $ | 330,000 | - | $ | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 70,000 | - | - | $ | 2.13 | 7/1/2032 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 200,000 | - | - | $ | 2.45 | 4/14/2028 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 345,000 | - | - | 200,000 | 330,000 | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| David Phipps |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 889 | - | - | 112.5 | 12/15/2026 |
- | $ | - | - | $ | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 444 | - | - | 112.5 | 5/25/2027 |
- | $ | - | - | $ | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 300,000 | - | - | 1.25 | 12/30/2030 |
- | $ | - | - | $ | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 301,333 | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Douglas Ellenoff |
450,000 | (1 | ) | 800,000 | (1 | ) | - | 5.35 | 8/23/2026 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 20,000 | (1 | ) | $ | 33,000 | - | $ | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 450,000 | 800,000 | - | 40,000 | 33,000 | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (1) |
Options granted outside of the Company’s 2018, 2020 and 2021 Equity Awards Plan. |
Employment Agreements
Phipps Employment Agreements
Phipps June 2018 Employment Agreement
On June 14, 2018, the Company entered into a two-year Employment Agreement (“2018 Phipps Agreement”) with Mr. Phipps, with an automatic one-year extension. Under the terms of the 2018 Phipps Agreement, Mr. Phipps served as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and President and received an annual base salary equal to the sum of $170,000 and £48,000 paid through our operating subsidiary, GTC. For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the £48,000 equivalent to USD is $61,293 and $62,219 and the yearly conversion rate is 1.276933 and 1.296229, respectively. The 2018 Phipps Agreement provided for a performance bonus based on exceeding our annual revenue goals and on our ability to attract new investment. The Agreement also provided for medical plan coverage, an auto allowance, paid vacation, and discretionary stock grants and option awards. In the event of termination without cause, termination as a result of a change in control, or resignation with good reason (as defined in the 2018 Phipps Agreement), Mr. Phipps was entitled to a severance equal to twice his base salary, the immediate vesting of all unvested options, and other benefits. As described below, the 2018 Phipps Agreement terminated in accordance with its terms on June 14, 2020, and Mr. Phipps and the Company subsequently entered into a new employment agreement.
On March 13, 2020, the Company and David Phipps executed a waiver of the provisions in his employment agreement requiring prior written notice of non-renewal to the other party. As a result, his employment terms with the Company were not automatically extended as set forth in his employment agreement and the agreement terminated as of June 14, 2020. After a series of monthly extensions Mr. Phipps’ employment agreement was replaced with a new employment agreement on March 11, 2021. As described in more detail below, on June 5, 2021, the Company entered into a new three-year employment agreement with Mr. Phipps (the “2021 Phipps Employment Agreement”) that was effective as of June 2, 2021 and that replaced his existing employment agreement. The 2021 Phipps Employment Agreement set Mr. Phipps’ annual base compensation at $350,000.
Phipps June 2021 Employment Agreement
On June 5, 2021, the Company entered into a new three-year employment agreement with Mr. Phipps, the that was effective as of June 2, 2021, also referred to herein as the 2021 Phipps Employment Agreement. Under the terms of the 2021 Phipps Employment Agreement, Mr. Phipps will serve as the serve as President of the Company and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations. The term will be automatically extended for additional one-year terms thereafter unless terminated by the Company or Mr. Phipps by written notice. Mr. Phipps’ annual base compensation under the 2021 Phipps Employment Agreement is an aggregate of $350,000.The Company may increase (but not decrease) his compensation during its term. In addition, Mr. Phipps will be entitled to receive an annual cash bonus if the Company meets or exceeds criteria adopted by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Mr. Phipps is also entitled to participate in any other executive compensation plans adopted by the Board of Directors and is eligible for such grants of awards under stock option or other equity incentive plans as the Compensation Committee of the Company may from time to time determine (the “Share Awards”). Share Awards will be subject to the applicable Plan terms and conditions, provided, however, that Share Awards will be subject to any additional terms and conditions as are provided therein or in any award certificate(s), which shall supersede any conflicting provisions governing Share Awards provided under the equity incentive plan. The Company is required to pay or to reimburse Mr. Phipps for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses actually incurred or paid by Mr. Phipps in the course of his employment, consistent with the Company’s policy. Mr. Phipps will be entitled to participate in such pension, profit sharing, group insurance, hospitalization, and group health and benefit plans and all other benefits and plans, including perquisites, if any, as the Company provides to its senior employees. The 2021 Phipps Agreement may be terminated based on death or disability of Mr. Phipps, for cause or without good reason, for cause or with good reason, and as a result of the change of control of the Company. The 2021 Phipps Agreement also contains certain provisions that are customary for agreements of this nature, including, without limitation, non-competition and non-solicitation covenants, indemnification provisions, etc. On August 7, 2021, the 2021 Phipps Agreement was amended in order to, among other things, (i) increase Mr. Phipps’ compensation to include a car allowance of $1,000 a month and (ii) clarify Mr. Phipps position to be President of NextPlat Corp and the Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations.
Fernandez Employment Agreements
Fernandez May 2021 Employment Agreement
On May 23, 2021, the Company entered into a three (3) year Employment Agreement (the “May Agreement”) with Mr. Fernandez to serve as Chairman of the Board. Such agreement includes provision for automatic one (1) year extensions. Under the terms of May Agreement, Mr. Fernandez’s employment commenced on May 28, 2021. As compensation for services under the May Agreement, Mr. Fernandez was to receive, in monthly installments during the term, the sum of $12,000 per month. Mr. Fernandez was also be entitled to such cash bonus opportunity and equity compensation arrangements as the Compensation Committee may determine following the effectiveness of this registration statement. The May Agreement also provided for the Company to reimburse Mr. Fernandez for any and all premium payments made by him to obtain and continue in full force and effect throughout the entire period of employment for personal catastrophe and disability insurance coverages. Such insurance was to have premium limits not to exceed one hundred percent (100%) of Mr. Fernandez’s Base Salary per annum. In addition, Mr. Fernandez was entitled to participate in such pension, profit sharing, group insurance, hospitalization, and group health and benefit plans and all other benefits and plans, including perquisites, if any, as the Company provides to its senior executives. Under the May Agreement, the Company was also obligated to reimburse Mr. Fernandez for up to $10,000 per year related to Mr. Fernandez’s business and personal travel and/or that of his immediate family members, as well as up to $10,000 per year for professional fees incurred by Mr. Fernandez, whether in connection with Mr. Fernandez’s association with the Company or otherwise. In connection to the June Offering, which is described above, the Company granted Mr. Fernandez an award of restricted stock with a grant date fair value equal to $3,000,000 determined at the per unit offering price of $5.00 per unit (the “RSA”), which RSA will vest 1/3 at each of the three anniversaries of the grant date. Notwithstanding the vesting schedule, full vesting will occur upon a Change in Control, as that term is defined in the RSA. The Company, at its sole expense, is obligated to register the reoffer and resale by Mr. Fernandez of the securities granted to Employee pursuant to the RSA.
Fernandez June 2021 Employment Agreement
On June 2, 2021, the Company entered into a new employment agreement (the “June Agreement”) with Charles M. Fernandez, with an initial term of five (5) years effective on May 28, 2021. The June Agreement replaced “the May Agreement”. Under the June Agreement, Mr. Fernandez will serve as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. The June Agreement will be automatically extended for additional one-year terms unless terminated by the Company or Mr. Fernandez by written notice. Mr. Fernandez’s annual base compensation under the June Agreement is $350,000 per year, which was increased to $525,000 per year in April 2023. The Company may increase (but not decrease) his compensation during the June Agreement’s term. In addition, Mr. Fernandez is entitled to receive an annual cash bonus if the Company meets or exceeds criteria adopted by the Compensation Committee of the Board. Mr. Fernandez is also entitled to participate in any other executive compensation plans adopted by the Board and is eligible for such grants of Share Awards. Share Awards will be subject to the applicable Plan terms and conditions, provided, however, that Share Awards will be subject to any additional terms and conditions as are provided therein or in any award certificate(s), which will supersede any conflicting provisions governing Share Awards provided under the equity incentive plan. The Company is required to pay or to reimburse Mr. Fernandez for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses actually incurred or paid by Mr. Fernandez in the course of his employment, consistent with the Company’s policy.
Mr. Fernandez will also be entitled to participate in such pension, profit sharing, group insurance, hospitalization, and group health and benefit plans and all other benefits and plans, including perquisites, if any, as the Company provides to its senior employees. The June Agreement may be terminated based on death or disability of Mr. Fernandez, for cause or without good reason, for cause or with good reason, as a result of the change of control of the Company and at the option of Mr. Fernandez with or without cause. The June Agreement also contains certain provisions that are customary for agreements of this nature, including, without limitation, non-competition and non-solicitation covenants, indemnification provisions, etc.
The Company will also reimburse Mr. Fernandez for any and all premium payments made by him to obtain and continue personal catastrophe and disability insurance coverages for himself, which policy will have policy limits not to exceed one hundred percent (100%) of his base salary per annum at any given time. In addition, the Company will pay for any and all travel-related expenses incurred by Mr. Fernandez and/or his immediate family members, not to exceed $10,000.00 per fiscal year, regardless of whether or not such expenses are incurred by Mr. Fernandez in connection with services or duties to be performed by him as an employee of the Company. The Company will also pay for any and all fees and costs incurred by Mr. Fernandez in connection with professional services provided to him, not to exceed $10,000 per year, including, without limitation, services provided to the Company by attorneys, accountants, financial planners and the like, regardless of whether or not such services are provided to Mr. Fernandez in connection with his employment with the Company.
In addition, the June Agreement (which repeats, but not duplicates, a grant of restricted stock made under the May Agreement), Mr. Fernandez received an award of restricted stock with a grant date fair value equal to $3,000,000 determined at the per unit offering price in the June Offering ($5 per Unit) (the “RSA”), which RSA will vest 1/3 at each of the three anniversaries of the grant date. The Grant Date for the RSA is May 28, 2021, as determined pursuant to the May Agreement. Notwithstanding the vesting schedule, full vesting will occur upon a Change in Control, as that term is defined in the Restricted Stock Agreement pursuant to which the RSA was made (the “May Restricted Stock Agreement”). The Company at its sole expense is obligated to register for reoffer and resale by Mr. Fernandez, the securities granted to him pursuant to the May Restricted Stock Agreement.
If Mr. Fernandez’s employment is terminated for any reason at any time by the Company prior to the full vesting of the RSA without “Cause” (as that term is defined in the June Agreement), the RSA will vest and Mr. Fernandez will receive all right, title and interest in the balance of the securities granted to him in the RSA.
During the term of the June Agreement and so long as Mr. Fernandez is employed by the Company, he may nominate two directors to the Company’s Board of Directors. The appointment of these directors to the Board is subject to approval by the Board of Directors.
On August 7, 2021, the June Agreement was amended in order to, among other things, increase Mr. Fernandez’s compensation by (i) providing for medical plan coverage for Mr. Fernandez and his family at the expense of the Company, and (ii) providing for an auto allowance $1,000 per month.
Ellenoff Employment Agreement
On August 24, 2021, Douglas S. Ellenoff was appointed to the positions of Chief Business Development Strategist of the “Company” and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company. The appointment was made on the approval and recommendation of the Nominating Committee of the Board. Mr. Ellenoff was not appointed to any committees of the Board.
In connection with Mr. Ellenoff’s appointment to the position of Chief Business Development Strategist of the Company, Mr. Ellenoff and the Company entered into a three-year Employment Agreement, dated August 24, 2021, which is also referred to herein as the “Ellenoff Agreement”., Under the Ellenoff Agreement, which sets forth the terms of his employment, including with regard to compensation. Mr. Ellenoff will be nominated and renominated to serve on the Board during the term of the agreement. Under the terms of the Ellenoff Employment Agreement, Mr. Ellenoff will receive, in lieu of cash compensation: (i) a restricted stock award of 100,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company, 40,000 of which will be issued within 5 business days of the execution of the Ellenoff Employment Agreement and vest immediately, and the remaining 60,000 of which will be issued and vest at the rate of 20,000 shares at the end of each of the next three annual anniversaries of his employment, provided that Mr. Ellenoff serves on the Board at any time during such year; and (ii) options to purchase a total of 1,500,000 shares of the Corporation’s Common Stock, 300,000 of which will issued within 5 business days of the execution of the Ellenoff Employment Agreement and vest immediately, 150,000 of which will vest on each of the next three annual anniversaries of the commencement of his employment, and the remaining 750,000 of which will vest at the rate of 250,000 per year on each of the first three anniversaries of the commencement of his employment if during each such year Mr. Ellenoff introduces the Company to twelve (12) or more potential Business Transactions (as defined in the Ellenoff Employment Agreement and which transactions need not be consummated); provided that the Company’s Chief Executive Officer may, in his sole discretion, waive the vesting requirement in any given year. Such options have an exercise price of $5.35 per share and will terminate 5 years after they vest. These equity awards to Mr. Ellenoff were material to induce Mr. Ellenoff to enter into the Ellenoff Employment Agreement and were issued outside of a shareholder approved stock or option plan pursuant to the Nasdaq “inducement grant” exception (Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4)).
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control
In the event of a termination of Mr. Fernandez’s or Mr. Phipps’ (the “Subject Employees”) employment as a result of his death or Total Disability (as defined in the respective employment agreement) the Subject Employee or his estate or beneficiaries, as applicable, will be entitled to the following severance benefits: (i) continued provision for a period of twelve (12) months following the Subject Employee’s death or Total Disability of benefits under the Company’s benefit plans extended by the Company to its senior employees; and (ii) payment on a pro-rated basis of any bonus or other payments earned prior to the date of termination in connection with any bonus plan to which the Subject Employee was a participant as of the date of death or Total Disability.
In the event of a termination of a Subject Employee’s employment due to the expiration of the term of the respective employment agreement, and where the Company offered to renew the term of employment and the Subject Employee chooses not to continue in the employ of the Company, the Subject Employee will not be entitled to any severance benefits.
Upon termination of employment by the Subject Employee for “good reason” (as defined in the respective employment agreement) or if the Company tenders a non-renewal notice to the Subject Employee without “Cause” (as defined in the respective employment agreement), then the Subject Employee will be entitled to the following severance benefits: (i) a cash payment, based on the current scale of the Subject Employee’s base salary, equal to six months of base salary; (ii) continued provision for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of termination of the benefits under the Company’s benefit plans extended by the Company to its senior employees; (iii) payment on a pro-rated basis of any bonus or other payments earned in connection with any bonus plan to which the Subject Employee was a participant as of the date of the Subject Employee’s termination of employment; and (iv) any options or restricted stock will be immediately vested upon termination of Subject Employee’s employment.
Upon termination of the Subject Employee’s employment at the Subject Employee’s option (without good reason) or by the Company for “Cause,” then the Subject Employee will be entitled to the following benefits: (i) continued provision, for a period of one (1) month after the date of the Subject Employee’s termination of employment, of benefits under the Company’s benefit plans extended to the Employee at the time of termination and (ii) any conversion rights available under the Company’s benefit plans and as otherwise provided by law, including the Comprehensive Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act.
In addition, notwithstanding the vesting schedule set forth in May Restricted Stock Agreement, full vesting of Mr. Fernandez’s RSA will occur upon a Change in Control, as that term is defined in the May Restricted Stock Agreement pursuant to which the RSA was made. If Mr. Fernandez’s employment is terminated for any reason at any time by the Company prior to the full vesting of the RSA without “Cause” (as that term is defined in the June Agreement), the RSA will vest and Mr. Fernandez will receive all right, title and interest in the balance of the securities granted to him in the RSA.
In the event of a termination of Mr. Ellenoff’s employment as a result of his death, his Total Disability (as defined in the Ellenoff Employment Agreement), the expiration of the initial term of the Ellenoff Employment Agreement, Mr. Ellenoff’s resignation for any reason or no reason (upon thirty (30) days prior written notice), or for “Cause” (as defined in the Ellenoff Employment Agreement); then, in addition to the reimbursement of documented, unreimbursed expenses incurred prior to such date, Mr. Ellenoff or his estate or beneficiaries, as applicable, will be entitled to receive any RSAs and options earned and/or vested through the such date, but all other RSAs and options shall immediately terminate. Upon termination of Mr. Ellenoff’s employment (as defined in the Ellenoff Employment Agreement), in addition to the reimbursement of documented, unreimbursed expenses incurred prior to such date, Mr. Ellenoff will be entitled to receive any RSAs and options provided for under the Ellenoff Employment Agreement; any RSAs and Options that previously had not been vested will immediately vest, and any RSAs or Options contemplated by the Ellenoff Employment Agreement that had not yet been issued to Mr. Ellenoff will be promptly issued by the Company.
Director Compensation
The 2023 director compensation packages consists of a cash retainer of $48,000 for each non-employee Director, plus an equity award of options to purchase 20,000 shares of common stock to each non-employee Director (“2023 Equity Awards”). The 2023 Equity Awards were fully vested on the grant date.
The table below sets forth the compensation earned by our non-employee directors for service on our Board of Directors during the year ended December 31, 2023. Compensation paid to Charles M. Fernandez, our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and Director, David Phipps, our President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations, and Director, and Douglas S. Ellenoff, our Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist for their service on the Board of Directors is set forth in Summary Compensation Table for named executive officers.
| Director |
Fees earned or paid in cash |
Stock awards |
Option awards |
Nonequity incentive plan compensation |
Nonqualified deferred compensation earnings |
All Other Compensation |
Total |
|||||||||||||||||||||
| John E. Miller |
$ | 48,000 | $ | - | $ | 48,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 96,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Louis Cusimano |
$ | 48,000 | $ | - | $ | 48,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 96,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Hector Delgado |
$ | 48,000 | $ | - | $ | 48,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 96,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Kendall W. Carpenter |
$ | 48,000 | $ | - | $ | 48,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 96,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Rodney Barreto |
$ | 48,000 | $ | 235,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 283,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Maria Cristina Fernandez |
$ | 38,500 | $ | - | $ | 61,500 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 5,000 | $ | 105,000 | ||||||||||||||
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
The following table sets forth information, as of March 26, 2024, regarding beneficial ownership of our common stock by:
| ● |
each of our directors; |
|
| ● |
each of our named executive officers; |
|
| ● |
all directors and executive officers as a group; and |
|
| ● |
each person, or group of affiliated persons, known by us to beneficially own more than five percent of our shares of common stock. |
Beneficial ownership is determined according to the rules of the SEC, and generally means that person has beneficial ownership of a security if he or she possesses sole or shared voting or investment power of that security and includes options that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days. Each director or officer, as the case may be, has furnished us with information with respect to beneficial ownership. Except as otherwise indicated, we believe that the beneficial owners of common stock listed below, based on the information each of them has given to us, have sole investment and voting power with respect to their shares, except where community property laws may apply.
| Number of |
Percent of |
|||
| Name and Address of Beneficial Owner (1) |
Shares (2) |
Class(2) |
||
| Directors and Executive Officers |
||||
| (including Named Executive Officers) |
||||
| Charles M. Fernandez†+ |
5,750,047 |
(3) |
27.7% |
|
| Douglas S. Ellenoff†+ |
705,000 |
(4) |
3.6% |
|
| David Phipps†+ |
751,621 |
(5) |
3.9% |
|
| Kendall Carpenter† |
40,000 |
* |
||
| Louis Cusimano† |
55,433 |
* |
||
| Hector Delgado† |
54,710 |
(6) |
* |
|
| John Miller† |
43,000 |
* |
||
| Rodney Barreto† |
2,686,799 |
(7) |
13.6% |
|
| Maria Cristina Fernandez† |
40,000 |
(8) |
* |
|
| Directors and current Executive Officers as a Group |
10,126,610 |
44.2% |
||
| 5% Stockholders (9) |
||||
| Frost Gamma Investment Trust (10) |
3,428,571 |
(11) |
18.3% |
|
| Robert D. Keyser, Jr. (12) |
1,534,795 |
(13) |
7.90% |
|
| * Indicates beneficial ownership of less than 1% of the outstanding common stock |
||||
| † Director |
||||
| + Executive Officer |
* Indicates beneficial ownership of less than 1% of the outstanding common stock
† Director
+ Executive Officer
| (1) |
Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes, the address of the beneficial owners is c/o NextPlat Corp, 3520 Mary St., Suite 410, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133. |
| (2) |
A person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of securities that can be acquired by him or her within 60 days from March 26, 2024 upon the exercise of options, warrants or other convertible securities. Percentage is based on 18,724,596 shares of common stock outstanding as of March 26, 2024. |
| (3) |
Represents (i) 3,677,667 shares of common stock, including 2,103,214 shares of common stock held by eAperion Partners, LLC, (ii) options to purchase 345,000 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable, (iii) warrants to purchase 1,685,714 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable, including 1,085,714 warrants owned by eAperion Partners, LLC, (iv) 25,000 shares of common stock owned by Mr. Fernandez's spouse, which may be deemed to be beneficially owned by Mr. Fernandez, and (v) options to purchase up to 16,666 shares of common stock owned by Mr. Fernandez's spouse, which may be deemed to be beneficially owned by Mr. Fernandez. Does not include options to purchase 8,333 shares of common stock granted to Mr. Fernandez's spouse on April 7, 2023 that vest on April 7, 2025. Mr. Fernandez is the owner and manager of eApeiron Partners, LLC. |
| (4) |
Represents (i) 105,000 shares of common stock and (ii) options to purchase 600,000 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable. Does not include 20,000 shares of restricted stock awarded on August 24, 2021, that vest on August 24, 2024. |
| (5) |
Represents (i) 421,788 shares of common stock, (ii) options to purchase 301,333 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable, and (iii) warrants to purchase 28,500 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable. |
| (6) |
Represents (i) 24,599 shares of common stock, and (ii) options to purchase 30,111 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable. |
| (7) |
Represents (i) 1,601,085 shares of common stock and (ii) warrants to purchase 1,085,714 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable. Includes shares of common stock and warrants held indirectly through RLB Market Investments, LLC. Mr. Barreto is owner and manager of RLB Market Investments, LLC. |
| (8) |
Includes options to purchase 40,000 shares of common stock that are immediately exercisable. |
| (9) |
Based on the contents of statements filed with the SEC by our stockholders, we do not believe that any stockholders other than Messrs. Fernandez, Barreto, Frost, and Keyser are beneficial owners of more than five percent of our common stock. |
| (10) |
The address of the beneficial owners is c/o Gamma Investment Trust, 4400 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 1500, Miami, Florida 33137. |
| (11) |
Represents 3,428,571 shares of common stock. |
| (12) |
The address of the beneficial owners is 1515 N. Federal Highway, #300, Boca Raton, Florida 33432. |
| (13) |
Represents (i) 202,947 shares of common stock held directly by Robert D. Keyser, Jr., (ii) 528,344 shares of common stock held by Sixth Borough Capital Fund, LP, (iii) 10,160 shares of common stock held by Robert Dawson Keyser III, (iv) 20,000 shares of common stock held by Auxol Capital, LLC, and (v) warrants to purchase 773,344 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable. |
Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table summarizes information, as of December 31, 2023, relating to equity compensation plans of the Company under which the Company’s common stock is authorized for issuance.
| Plan category |
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights |
Weighted- average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights |
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans |
|||||||||
| Equity compensation plans approved by security holders: |
||||||||||||
| Equity compensation plans 2020 Incentive Plan |
523,000 | $ | 0.28 | 600 | ||||||||
| Equity compensation plans 2021 Incentive Plan |
295,000 | 0.35 | 328,529 | |||||||||
| Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders: |
||||||||||||
| 2018 Incentive Plan |
- | - | 1,333 | |||||||||
| Equity compensation issued pursuant to individual compensation arrangements |
1,447,333 | 2.98 | - | |||||||||
| Total |
2,265,333 | $ | 3.61 | 330,462 | ||||||||
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
SEC rules require us to disclose any transaction or currently proposed transaction in which the Company is a participant and in which any related person has or will have a direct or indirect material interest involving the lesser of $120,000 or one percent (1%) of the average of the Company’s total assets as of the end of last two completed fiscal years. A related person is any executive officer, director, nominee for director, or holder of 5% or more of the Company’s common stock, or an immediate family member of any of those persons.
Employees Related to Mr. Phipps. For the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company employed two individuals related to Mr. Phipps who earned gross wages totaling approximately $78,000 and $56,000, respectively.
Employee related to Mr. Fernandez. On July 12, 2022, the Company hired Lauren Sturges Fernandez, the spouse of Mr. Fernandez, as Manager of Digital Assets. Mrs. Fernandez is an at-will employee with an annual salary of $95,000. On September 22, 2022, Mrs. Fernandez’s title was changed to Chief of Staff and Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Board, her salary remained the same. Previously Mrs. Fernandez was a consultant and earned compensation for her services of $10,995, for the year ended December 31, 2022. In April 2023, Mrs. Fernandez’s annual salary increased to $125,000, which was approved by the Board of Directors. On April 7, 2023, Ms. Sturges Fernandez was awarded (a) 25,000 fully vested shares of restricted common stock of the Company under the 2021 Plan, and (b) options to purchase 25,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $1.98 per share. The options have a five-year term. One third of the options were fully vested on the award date and the remaining options vest on the first and second anniversary of the award date.
Progressive Care. Following the consummation of the Company’s investment in Progressive Care Inc. on September 2, 2022, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Charles M. Fernandez, and our board member, Rodney Barreto, were appointed to Progressive Care’s Board of Directors, with Mr. Fernandez appointed to serve as Chairman of Progressive Care’s Board of Directors and Mr. Barreto appointed to serve as a Vice Chairman of Progressive Care’s Board of Directors. On November 11, 2022, the Progressive Care board of directors elected Mr. Fernandez as the Chief Executive Officer of Progressive Care. In addition, on August 30, 2022, NextPlat, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto and certain other purchasers (the “NextPlat Investors”) purchased from Iliad Research and Trading, L.P. (“Iliad”) a Secured Convertible Promissory Note, dated March 6, 2019, made by Progressive Care to Iliad (the “Note”). The accrued and unpaid principal and interest under the note at the time of the purchase was approximately $2.8 million. The aggregate purchase price paid to Iliad for the Note was $2.3 Million of which NextPlat contributed $1 million and Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto contributed $400,000 each (the “Note Purchase”). Upon completion of the Note Purchase, NextPlat, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto and the other purchasers of the Note entered into a Debt Modification Agreement with Progressive Care pursuant to which the Note was amended and restated with modified terms, including a modified conversion price of $4.00 per share of common stock (after giving effect to the Progressive Care reverse stock split described below), and a mandatory conversion upon the later to occur of (a) the completion of the Progressive Care’s reverse stock split, and (b) the listing of Progressive Care’s common stock on a national exchange, including the Nasdaq Capital Market, the Nasdaq Global Market, or the New York Stock Exchange (the “A&R Note”). In consideration of the concessions in the Debt Modification Agreement, Progressive Care issued 105,000 shares of its common stock to the NextPlat Investors, of which NextPlat, Charles M. Fernandez and Rodney Barreto, received 45,653, 18,261, and 18,261 shares, respectively, in each case after giving effect to a 1-for-200 reverse stock split enacted by Progressive Care on December 30, 2022.
On May 5, 2023, NextPlat entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”) with Progressive Care, pursuant to which NextPlat purchased 455,000 newly issued units of securities from Progressive Care (the “Units”) at a price per Unit of $2.20 for an aggregate purchase price of $1 million (the “Unit Purchase”). Each Unit consisted of one share of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Progressive Care and one warrant to purchase a share of common stock (the “PIPE Warrants”). The PIPE Warrants have a three-year term and are immediately exercisable. Each PIPE Warrant is exercisable at $2.20 per share of common stock. On May 9, 2023, the Companies closed the transactions contemplated in the SPA. Progressive Care received cash proceeds of $880,000, net of placement agent commission of $70,000 and legal fees of $50,000.
Simultaneous with the closing of the Unit Purchase on May 9, 2023, Progressive Care entered into a Debt Conversion Agreement (the “DCA”) with the NextPlat Investors relating to the A&R Note. Pursuant to the DCA, the NextPlat Investors agreed to convert the total approximately $2.9 million of outstanding principal and accrued and unpaid interest under the A&R Note to Proogressive Care common stock at a conversion price of $2.20 per share (the “Debt Conversion”). Of the total 1,312,379 shares of Progressive Care common stock issued pursuant to the Debt Conversion, NextPlat received 570,599 shares, Charles M. Fernandez received 228,240 shares, and Rodney Barreto received 228,240 shares. In addition, each of the NextPlat Investors also received a warrant to purchase one share of Progressive Care common stock for each share of Progressive Care common stock they received upon conversion of the A&R Note (the “Conversion Warrants”). The Conversion Warrants have a three-year term and were immediately exercisable. Each Conversion Warrant is exercisable at $2.20 per share of Common Stock. In addition, Progressive Care issued 330,000 warrants to certain existing Progressive Care investors to induce them to approve the Unit Purchase (the “Inducement Warrants”). Charles M. Fernandez and Rodney Barreto received Inducement Warrants to purchase 190,000 and 30,000 shares of Common Stock, respectively. The Inducement Warrants have a three-year term and were immediately exercisable. Each Inducement Warrant is exercisable at $2.20 per share of Progressive Care common stock.
On July 1, 2023, NextPlat, along with Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto, exercised certain common stock purchase warrants issued by Progressive Care (the “RXMD Warrants”) and were issued shares of Progressive Care common stock. NextPlat exercised RXMD Warrants on a cashless basis and was issued 402,269 shares of Progressive Care common stock. NextPlat also exercised RXMD Warrants on a cash basis and paid consideration in the amount of $506,000 and was issued 230,000 shares of Progressive Care common stock. Mr. Fernandez exercised RXMD Warrants on a cashless basis and was issued 211,470 shares of Progressive Care common stock. Mr. Barreto exercised RXMD Warrants on a cashless basis and was issued 130,571 shares of Progressive Care common stock. At the time of exercise, all of the above RXMD Warrants were in-the-money. After the exercise of the RXMD Warrants, NextPlat and Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto collectively owned approximately 53% of Progressive Care’s voting common stock.
Also, on July 1, 2023, NextPlat entered into a voting agreement with Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto whereby at any annual or special shareholders meeting of Progressive Care’s stockholders, and whenever the holders of Progressive Care’s common stock act by written consent, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto agreed to vote all of their shares of Progressive Care common stock (including any new shares of Progressive Care common stock acquired after the date of the voting agreement or acquired through the conversion of securities convertible into Progressive Care common stock) that they own, directly or indirectly, in the same manner that NextPlat votes its shares of Progressive Care common stock and equivalents. The voting agreement is irrevocable and perpetual in term.
January 2022 Offering. The Company received gross proceeds of approximately $7.2 million from the sale Common Stock in an offering that closed on January 5, 2022. Approximately 73% of funds raised in the offering were secured from existing shareholders, and from members of the Company’s senior management and Board of Directors. The following table represents the related party investment in the January Offering:
| Investor |
Position held at NextPlat |
Shares of Common |
Aggregate |
||||||
| Charles M. Fernandez |
Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
679,013 | $ | 2,200,002 | |||||
| David Phipps |
Director and President of Orbsat. Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations |
46,297 | $ | 150,002 | |||||
| Douglas Ellenoff Shares are deemed to be indirectly beneficially owned through Sabrina Allan, Mr. Ellenoff’s wife. Mr. Ellenoff has the power to vote and dispose of the shares. |
Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist |
46,297 | $ | 150,002 | |||||
| Louis Cusimano |
Director |
15,433 | $ | 50,003 | |||||
| Paul R. Thomson |
Senior Vice President – Mergers, Acquisitions and Special Projects |
15,433 | $ | 50,003 | |||||
On January 20, 2022, the Company appointed Rodney Barreto, to its Board. Mr. Barreto was a participant of the January offering and purchased 370,701 shares of common stock for $3.24 per share or approximately $1.2 million. Mr. Barreto’s investment represented 17% of the total.
December 2022 Offering. On December 14, 2022, the Company closed a private placement for the sale of 4,575,429 units (each, a “Unit”), each Unit consisting of (i) one share of the Company’s common stock, $0.0001 par value per share (the “Common Stock”), and (ii) one warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock (each, a “Warrant”). The offering price of the Units was $1.75 per Unit. The Warrants included in the Units are exercisable at a price of $1.75 per share and expire three years from the date of issuance. Related party investment represented 48%, of the approximately $8.0 million of the funds raised. The following table represents the related party investment in the December Offering:
| Investor |
Position held at NextPlat |
Shares of Common |
Warrants to purchase Common Stock |
Aggregate |
|||||||||
| eAperion Partners LLC, principal Charles M. Fernandez |
Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
1,085,714 | 1,085,714 | $ | 1,900,000 | ||||||||
| David Phipps |
Director and President of NextPlat. Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations |
28,500 | 28,500 | $ | 49,875 | ||||||||
| RLB Market Investments LLC, principal, Rodney Barreto |
Director |
1,085,714 | 1,085,714 | $ | 1,900,000 | ||||||||
Next Borough Capital Management, LLC. On July 7, 2023, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note agreement with Next Borough Capital Management, LLC (“the Borrower”), whereby the Company loaned $250,000 to the Borrower. The note bears interest at an annual rate of 7%. The outstanding principal balance of the note plus all accrued unpaid interest is due and payable on July 7, 2024, the Maturity Date. Each of the Company, Charles M. Fernandez, Robert D. Keyser, Jr., eAperion Partners, LLC and a revocable trust of Rodney Barreto are members of the Borrower.
Policies and Procedures for Related Party Transactions
The Audit Committee was responsible for reviewing, approving and overseeing any transaction between the Company and a related person. The Audit Committee’s responsibility includes, but is not limited to, any transaction, arrangement or relationship, or any series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships in which we were or will be a participant and (a) the amount involved exceeds the lesser of $120,000 or one percent (1%) of the average of the Company’s total assets as of the end of last two completed fiscal years, and (b) a related person had or will have a direct or indirect material interest, including, without limitation, purchases of goods or services by or from the related person or entities in which the related person has a material interest, indebtedness, guarantees of indebtedness and employment by us of a related person. A related person is any executive officer, director, nominee for director, or holder of 5% or more of the Company’s common stock, or an immediate family member of any of those persons.
Director Independence
Our Board undertook a review of the composition of our Board and its committees and the independence of each director. Based upon information requested from and provided by each director concerning his background, employment and affiliations, including family relationships, our Board has determined that each of our directors, with the exception of David Phipps, Douglas Ellenoff and Charles M. Fernandez, are independent as defined under the Nasdaq Rules.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
Aggregate fees for professional services rendered by RBSM LLP for their services for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, were as follows:
| RBSM, LLP |
2023 |
2022 |
||||||
| Audit fees (1) |
$ | 200,600 | $ | 162,500 | ||||
| Audit-related fees (2) |
7,500 | 10,000 | ||||||
| Tax fees |
- | 11,500 | ||||||
| Other fees (3) |
35,000 | 50,000 | ||||||
| Total fees |
$ | 243,100 | $ | 234,000 | ||||
Audit Fees
Audit fees represent the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by our independent accounting firm for the audit of our annual financial statements, review of financial statements included in our quarterly reports, review of registration statements or services that are normally provided in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years.
Audit-Related Fees
Audit-related fees represent the aggregate fees billed for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements and are not reported under Audit Fees.
Tax Fees
Tax fees represent the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by our principal accountants for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning for such years.
All Other Fees
All other fees represent the aggregate fees billed for products and services other than the services reported in the other categories.
Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
The Audit Committee annually reviews audit and non-audit services performed by the independent auditors. All audit and non-audit services are pre-approved by the Audit Committee, which considers, among other things, the possible effect of the performance of such services on the auditors’ independence.
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.
| (a) |
Documents filed as part of this report. |
| (1) |
Financial Statements. See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements, which appears on page F-1 hereof. The financial statements listed in the accompanying Index to Consolidated Financial Statements are filed herewith in response to this Item. |
|
|
|
||
| (2) |
Financial Statements Schedules. None. |
| (3) |
Exhibits |
| Exhibit No. |
Description |
|
| 1.1 |
||
| 3.1 |
||
| 3.2 |
||
| 3.3 |
||
| 3.4 |
||
| 3.5 |
||
| 3.6 |
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| 4.1* |
||
| 4.2 |
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| 4.3 |
||
| 4.4 |
||
| 4.5 |
||
| 4.6 |
||
| 10.1 |
||
| 10.2 |
||
| 10.3+ |
||
| 10.4+ |
||
| 10.5+ |
||
| 10.6 |
||
| 10.7 |
||
| 10.8 |
||
| 10.9 |
||
| 10.10 |
| Exhibit No. |
Description |
|
| 10.11 |
||
| 10.12 |
||
| 10.13 |
||
| 10.14 |
||
| 10.15 |
||
| 10.16 |
||
| 10.17 |
||
| 10.18 |
||
| 10.19+ |
||
| 10.20+ |
||
| 10.21+ |
||
| 10.22+ |
||
| 10.23+ |
||
| 10.24+ |
||
| 10.25 |
||
| 10.26+ |
||
| 10.27+ |
||
| 10.28+ |
||
| 10.29+ |
| Exhibit No. |
Description |
|
| 10.30+ |
||
| 10.31+ |
||
| 10.32+ |
||
| 10.33+ |
||
| 10.34 |
||
| 10.35 |
||
| 10.36 |
||
| 10.37+ |
||
| 10.38+ |
||
| 10.39+ |
||
| 10.40+ |
||
| 10.41+ |
||
| 10.42+ |
||
| 10.43+ |
| Exhibit No. |
Description |
|
| 10.44+ |
||
| 10.45+ |
||
| 10.46+ |
||
| 10.47+ |
||
| 10.48+ |
||
| 10.49+ |
||
| 10.50+ |
||
| 10.51+ |
||
| 10.52+ |
||
| 10.53+ |
||
| 10.54 |
||
| 10.55 |
||
| 10.56+ |
||
| 10.57+ |
||
| 10.58+ |
||
| 10.59+ |
||
| 10.60+ |
| Exhibit No. |
Description |
|
| 10.61+ |
||
| 10.62+ |
||
| 10.63+ |
||
| 10.64+ |
||
| 10.65+ |
||
| 10.66+ |
||
| 10.67+ |
||
| 10.68+ |
||
| 10.69+ |
||
| 10.70+ |
||
| 10.71+ |
||
| 10.72+ |
||
| 10.73 |
||
| 10.74 |
||
| 10.75 |
| (1) |
Schedules have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. A copy of any omitted schedule will be furnished supplementally to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request; provided, however that the Company may request confidential treatment pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Exchange Act for any schedule or exhibit so furnished. |
* Filed herewith.
+ Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
None.
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.
| Dated: April 11, 2024 |
NEXTPLAT CORP |
|
| By: |
/s/ Charles M. Fernandez |
|
| Charles M. Fernandez |
||
| Title: Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
||
| By: |
/s/ Cecile Munnik |
|
| Cecile Munnik |
||
| Title: Chief Financial Officer, (Principal Financial Officer) |
||
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following person on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
| Signature |
Title |
Date |
||
| /s/ Charles M. Fernandez |
Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman |
April 11, 2024 | ||
| Charles M. Fernandez |
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|||
| /s/ Cecile Munnik |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) |
April 11, 2024 |
||
| Cecile Munnik |
||||
| /s/ David Phipps |
President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations and Director |
April 11, 2024 |
||
| David Phipps |
||||
| /s/ Douglas S. Ellenoff |
Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist and Director |
April 11, 2024 |
||
| Douglas Ellenoff |
||||
| /s/ Hector Delgado |
Director |
April 11, 2024 |
||
| Hector Delgado |
||||
| /s/ Kendall W. Carpenter |
Director |
April 11, 2024 |
||
| Kendall Carpenter |
||||
| /s/ Louis Cusimano |
Director |
April 11, 2024 |
||
| Louis Cusimano |
||||
| /s/ John E. Miller |
Director |
April 11, 2024 |
||
| John E. Miller |
||||
| /s/ Rodney Barreto |
Director |
April 11, 2024 | ||
| Rodney Barreto |
||||
| /s/ Maria Cristina Fernandez |
Director |
April 11, 2024 |
||
| Maria Cristina Fernandez |
NEXTPLAT CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
 |
New York Office:
805 Third Avenue New York, NY 10022 212.838-5100
www.rbsmllp.com |
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
NextPlat Corp and Subsidiaries
Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of NextPlat Corp and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the related consolidated statements of comprehensive loss, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the consolidated financial statements). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Goodwill and Other Intangibles arising from the acquisition of Progressive Care, Inc. (“RXMD”) – Refer to Notes 2, 3, 4 and 14 to the consolidated financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
As disclosed in Note 3, Goodwill arises in connection with acquisitions. The excess purchase price over the fair value of net tangible assets and identifiable intangible assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. As disclosed in Note 4, on July 1, 2023, the Company gained voting control of RXMD and therefore, became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company on July 1, 2023. Auditing the accounting for the acquisition was complex due to the significant estimation uncertainty in determining the fair values of identified intangible assets, which consisted of Trade Names, Development Technology, Pharmacy Records and Goodwill.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing audit procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of management’s estimates and assumptions required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased effort, including the need to involve a fair value specialist.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included, among others:
| ● | Utilizing personnel with specialized knowledge and skill in valuation to assist in; i) assessing the appropriateness of the valuation methodology for the intangible assets, ii) evaluating the reasonableness of the growth rates, percent of revenues derived and discount rate used in the income approach, iii) evaluating the reasonableness of the assumptions and estimates used in the valuation methodologies. | |
| ● | Evaluate the reasonableness of management’s significant estimates. | |
| ● | Professionals with specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in evaluating (i) the appropriateness of the fair value approach and (ii) the reasonableness of significant assumptions and estimates. | |
| ● | Reviewed and assessed the appropriateness of adjustments to Goodwill, Other Intangibles and other Assets and Liabilities acquired based on changes to their estimated fair values. |
Goodwill and Other Intangibles Impairment Assessments – RXMD acquisition – Refer to Notes 3 and 14 to the consolidated financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
As described in Note 14 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s goodwill balance was approximately $731,000 as of December 31, 2023. The Company also has amortizable identifiable intangible assets of approximately $14,423,000, and are related to the RXMD Healthcare Operations reporting unit. Management tests these assets annually for impairment or more frequently when potential impairment triggering events are present. Goodwill is tested for impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the goodwill and intangible asset impairment assessments of the RXMD Healthcare Operations reporting unit is a critical audit matter because (i) the significant, subjective and complex judgments used by management when determining the fair value estimates of the reporting units; (ii) the high degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity and effort in performing procedures and evaluating the significant assumptions used in management’s fair value estimates; and (iii) the audit effort involved in the use of professionals with specialized skill and knowledge including a valuation expert.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements.
| ● | These procedures included, among others, (i) testing management’s process for determining the fair value estimates of the RXMD Healthcare Operations reporting unit; (ii) testing the completeness and accuracy of the underlying data used in the fair value approach; and (iii) evaluating the reasonableness of the significant assumptions used by management related to market multiples, peer group and comparable transaction selection and selection of relevant financial matrices for concluding the fair value of reporting unit and future levels of revenue growth. | |
| ● | Evaluating management’s assumptions related to the future levels of revenue growth involved evaluating whether the assumptions were reasonable considering (i) current and past performance of the reporting units; (ii) the consistency with external market and industry data; and (iii) whether these assumptions were consistent with evidence obtained in other areas of the audit. | |
| ● | Professionals with specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in evaluating (i) the appropriateness of the fair value approaches and (ii) the reasonableness of significant assumptions of relevant financial matrices for concluding the fair value of reporting unit and future levels of revenue growth. |
| /s/ |
| We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2014. |
| |
| April 11, 2024 PCAOB ID Number |
NEXTPLAT CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except shares and par data)
| December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||
| Current Assets | ||||||||
| Cash | $ | $ | ||||||
| Accounts receivable, net | ||||||||
| Receivables - other, net | ||||||||
| Inventory, net | ||||||||
| Unbilled revenue | ||||||||
| VAT receivable | ||||||||
| Prepaid expenses | ||||||||
| Notes receivable due from related party | ||||||||
| Total Current Assets | ||||||||
| Property and equipment, net | ||||||||
| Goodwill | ||||||||
| Intangible assets, net | ||||||||
| Operating right of use assets, net | ||||||||
| Finance right-of-use assets, net | ||||||||
| Equity method investment | ||||||||
| Deposits | ||||||||
| Prepaid expenses, net of current portion | ||||||||
| Total Other Assets | ||||||||
| Total Assets | $ | $ | ||||||
| LIABILITIES AND EQUITY | ||||||||
| Current Liabilities | ||||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | $ | $ | ||||||
| Contract liabilities | ||||||||
| Notes payable | ||||||||
| Due to related party | ||||||||
| Operating lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Finance lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Income taxes payable | ||||||||
| Liabilities from discontinued operations | ||||||||
| Total Current Liabilities | ||||||||
| Long Term Liabilities: | ||||||||
| Notes payable, net of current portion | ||||||||
| Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion | ||||||||
| Finance lease liabilities, net of current portion | ||||||||
| Total Liabilities | ||||||||
| Commitments and Contingencies | ||||||||
| Equity | ||||||||
| Preferred stock ($ par value; shares authorized) | ||||||||
| Common stock ($ par value; shares authorized, and shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively) | ||||||||
| Additional paid-in capital | ||||||||
| Accumulated deficit | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Equity attributable to NextPlat Corp stockholders | ||||||||
| Equity attributable to noncontrolling interests | ||||||||
| Total Equity | ||||||||
| Total Liabilities and Equity | $ | $ | ||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
NEXTPLAT CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(In thousands, except per shares data)
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||
| December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Sales of products, net | $ | $ | ||||||
| Revenues from services | ||||||||
| Revenue, net | ||||||||
| Cost of products | ||||||||
| Cost of services | ||||||||
| Cost of revenue | ||||||||
| Gross profit | ||||||||
| Operating expenses: | ||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | ||||||||
| Salaries, wages and payroll taxes | ||||||||
| Goodwill impairment | ||||||||
| Professional fees | ||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | ||||||||
| Total operating expenses | ||||||||
| Loss before other (income) expense | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Other (income) expense: | ||||||||
| Interest expense | ||||||||
| Interest earned | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Asset write-off | ||||||||
| Other income | ( | ) | ||||||
| Foreign currency exchange rate variance | ( | ) | ||||||
| Total other (income) expense | ( | ) | ||||||
| Loss before income taxes and equity in net loss of affiliate | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Income taxes | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Loss before equity in net loss of affiliate | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Gain on remeasurement of fair value of equity interest in affiliate prior to acquisition | ||||||||
| Equity in net loss of affiliate | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Net loss | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | ||||||||
| Net loss attributable to NextPlat Corp | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Comprehensive loss: | ||||||||
| Net loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Foreign currency loss | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Comprehensive loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Weighted number of common shares outstanding – basic | ||||||||
| Weighted number of common shares outstanding – diluted | ||||||||
| Basic loss per share | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Diluted loss per share | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
NEXTPLAT CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED December 31, 2023 AND 2022
(In thousands)
| Common Stock | Additional | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $0.0001 Par Value | Paid in | Accumulated | Comprehensive | Stockholders’ | Noncontrolling | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Capital | Deficit | Income (Loss) | Equity NextPlat Corp | Interests | Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2021 | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock related to January offering | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock related to December offering | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation in connection with restricted stock awards | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation in connection with options granted | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Comprehensive loss | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2022 | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock related to April offering | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock related to exercise of warrants | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock related to restricted stock award | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation in connection with options granted | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation in connection with warrants granted | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Acquisition of subsidiary and noncontrolling interests | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Comprehensive income | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2023 | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
NEXTPLAT CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||
| December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
| Net loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: | ||||||||
| Depreciation expense | ||||||||
| Change in provision for doubtful accounts | ||||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | ||||||||
| Amortization of right-of-use assets - operating leases | ||||||||
| Amortization of right-of-use assets - finance leases | ||||||||
| Write-off of digital assets | ||||||||
| Goodwill impairment | ||||||||
| Gain on remeasurement of fair value of equity interest in affiliate prior to acquisition | ( | ) | ||||||
| Equity in net loss of affiliate | ||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | ||||||||
| Change in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||
| Accounts receivable | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Inventory | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Unbilled revenue | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Prepaid expense | ||||||||
| Notes receivable | ( | ) | ||||||
| Other assets | ||||||||
| VAT receivable | ||||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | ||||||||
| Operating lease liabilities | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Income taxes payable | ||||||||
| Contract liabilities | ||||||||
| Liabilities from discontinued operations | ( | ) | ||||||
| Net cash used in operating activities | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
| Purchase of property and equipment | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Cash acquired in acquisition of subsidiary | ||||||||
| Capital contributions to equity method investee | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | ( | ) | ||||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
| Repayments of note payable, related party, net | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Issuance of common stock for PIPE transaction | ||||||||
| Payment of stock issuance costs | ( | ) | ||||||
| Proceeds from exercise of warrants | ||||||||
| Payments on finance lease liabilities | ( | ) | ||||||
| Repayments of notes payable | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | ||||||||
| Effect of exchange rate on cash | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Net increase in cash | ||||||||
| Cash beginning of year | ||||||||
| Cash end of year | $ | $ | ||||||
| SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION | ||||||||
| Cash paid during the period for | ||||||||
| Interest | $ | $ | ||||||
| Income tax | $ | $ | ||||||
| Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities: | ||||||||
| Business combination without transfer of consideration | $ | $ | ||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
NEXTPLAT CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1. Organization and Nature of Operations.
The term “Company” refers to NextPlat Corp and its wholly, majority owned and controlled subsidiaries, except where the context requires otherwise or where otherwise indicated.
NextPlat Corp:
NextPlat Corp, a Nevada corporation (the “Company”, “NextPlat”, “we”), formerly Orbsat Corp was incorporated in 1997. The Company operates two main e-commerce websites as well as 25 third-party e-commerce storefronts on platforms such as Alibaba, Amazon and Walmart. These e-commerce venues form an effective global network serving thousands of consumers, enterprises, and governments. NextPlat has announced its intention to broaden its e-commerce platform and is implementing a comprehensive system upgrade to support this initiative. We provide a comprehensive array of Satellite Industry communication services and related equipment sales.
Our wholly-owned subsidiary, Global Telesat Communications Limited (“GTC”), was formed under the laws of England and Wales in 2008. On February 19, 2015, we entered into a share exchange agreement with GTC and all of the holders of the outstanding equity of GTC pursuant to which we acquired all of the outstanding equity in GTC.
Our wholly-owned subsidiary, Orbital Satcom Corp. (“Orbital Satcom”), a Nevada corporation, was formed on November 14, 2014.
On June 22, 2022, NextPlat B.V. (“NXPLBV”) was formed in Amsterdam, Netherlands, as a wholly owned subsidiary of NextPlat Corp. Presently, NXPLBV does not have any active operations
Progressive Care Inc.:
Progressive Care Inc. (“Progressive Care”) was incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware on October 31, 2006.
Progressive, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Pharmco, LLC (“Pharmco 901”), Touchpoint RX, LLC doing business as Pharmco Rx 1002, LLC (“Pharmco 1002”), Family Physicians RX, Inc. doing business as PharmcoRx 1103 and PharmcoRx 1204 (“FPRX” or “Pharmco 1103” and “Pharmco 1204”) (pharmacy subsidiaries collectively referred to as “Pharmco”), and ClearMetrX Inc. (“ClearMetrX”) is a personalized healthcare services and technology company that provides prescription pharmaceuticals and risk and data management services to healthcare organizations and providers.
Pharmco 901 was formed on November 29, 2005 as a Florida Limited Liability Company and is a
Pharmco 1103 is a pharmacy with locations in North Miami Beach and Orlando, Florida that provides Pharmco’s pharmacy services to Miami-Dade County, Broward County, the Orlando/Tampa corridor, and the Treasure Coast of Florida. Progressive acquired all the ownership interests in Pharmco 1103 in a purchase agreement entered into on June 1, 2019.
Pharmco 1002 is a pharmacy located in Palm Springs, Florida that provides Pharmco’s pharmacy services to Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Martin Counties, Florida. Progressive acquired all the ownership interests in Pharmco 1002 in a purchase agreement entered into on July 1, 2018.
ClearMetrX was formed on June 10, 2020 and provides third-party administration (“TPA”) services to 340B covered entities. ClearMetrX also provides data analytics and reporting services to support and improve care management for health care organizations.
RXMD Therapeutics was formed on October 1, 2019. RXMD Therapeutics has had no operating activity to date.
Note 2. Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with general accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and this basis assumes that the Company will continue as a going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business.
Business acquisition of Progressive Care, Inc.
On July 1, 2023, the Company, Charles M. Fernandez, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and Rodney Barreto, Director of the Company, exercised common stock purchase warrants issued by Progressive Care (the “RXMD Warrants”) and were issued shares of Progressive Care common stock. After the exercise of the RXMD Warrants, the Company and Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto collectively owned
The exercise of the stock options, along with the entry into the voting agreement, resulted in a change in control of Progressive Care under the voting interest model in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 805, Business Combination, and was accounted for as a business acquisition. Therefore, Progressive Care became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company on July 1, 2023. The Company previously accounted for its equity interest in Progressive Care as an equity method investment.
The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates
In preparing the Consolidated Financial Statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the statements of financial condition, and revenues and expenses for the years then ended. Actual results may differ significantly from those estimates. Significant estimates made by management include, but are not limited to, assumptions used to calculate stock-based compensation, fair value of net assets acquired in the business combination with Progressive Care. common stock and options issued for services, net realizable value of accounts receivables the useful lives of property and equipment and intangible assets, the estimate of the fair value of the lease liability and related right of use assets, pharmacy benefit manager ("PBM") fee estimates, and the estimates of the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets and corporate income taxes.
Reclassification
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the current year presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on the reported results of operations.
Note 3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
The significant accounting policies of the Company are described below the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. Progressive Care became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company on July 1, 2023 and as a result the Company has incorporated certain significant accounting policies of Progressive Care for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Discontinued Operations
The Company’s former operations were developing and manufacturing products and services, which reduce fuel costs, save power and energy and protect the environment. The products and services were made available for sale into markets in the public and private sectors. In December 2009, the Company discontinued these operations and disposed of certain of its subsidiaries.
The remaining liabilities for discontinued operations are presented in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Liabilities from discontinued operation” and relates to the discontinued operations of developing and manufacturing of energy saving and fuel-efficient products and services. The carrying amounts of the major classes of these liabilities as of December 31, 2023, and 2022 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Assets of discontinued operations | $ | $ | ||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||
| Accounts payables and accrued expenses | $ | $ | ( | ) | ||||
| Liabilities from discontinued operations | $ | $ | ( | ) | ||||
Liquidity
January 2022 Private Placement of Common Stock
On December 31, 2021, after markets closed, a securities purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) was circulated to, and signatures were received from, certain institutional and accredited investors (the “December Investors”) in connection with the sale in a private placement by the Company of
The closing of the December Offering occurred on January 5, 2022. The Company received gross proceeds from the sale of the common stock in the December Offering of approximately $
December 2022 Private Placement of Common Stock
On December 9, 2022, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain institutional and accredited investors for the sale by the Company in a private placement of
On December 9, 2022, the Company entered into placement agency agreement (the “Placement Agency Agreement”) with Dawson James Securities, Inc. (“Dawson James”). The Company has agreed to pay Dawson James a placement agent fee of
The offering closed on December 14, 2022, and the Company received gross proceeds of approximately $
April 2023 Private Placement of Common Stock
On April 5, 2023, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with an accredited investor (the “Investor”) for the sale by the Company in a private placement of
As of the date of this report, the Company’s existing cash resources and existing borrowing availability are sufficient to support planned operations for the next 12 months. As a result, management believes that the Company’s existing financial resources are sufficient to continue operating activities for at least one year past the issuance date of the financial statements.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company places its cash with high credit quality financial institutions. The Company’s account at this institution is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to $
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
The Company has a policy of reserving for questionable accounts based on its best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in its existing accounts receivable. The Company periodically reviews its accounts receivable to determine whether an allowance is necessary based on an analysis of past due accounts and other factors that may indicate that the realization of an account may be in doubt. Account balances deemed to be uncollectible are offset against sales and relieved from accounts receivable, after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote.
Progressive Care trade accounts receivable are stated at the invoiced amount. Trade accounts receivable primarily include amounts from third-party pharmacy benefit managers (“PBMs”) and insurance providers and are based on contracted prices. Trade accounts receivable are unsecured and require no collateral. Progressive Care records an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated differences between the expected and actual payment of accounts receivable. These reductions were made based upon reasonable and reliable estimates that were determined by reference to historical experience, contractual terms, and current conditions. Each quarter, the Progressive Care reevaluates its estimates to assess the adequacy of its allowance and adjusts the amounts as necessary. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote.
Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value, using the first-in first-out cost method. The Company assesses the valuation of its inventories and reduces the carrying value of those inventories that are obsolete or in excess of the Company’s forecasted usage to their estimated net realizable value. The Company estimates the net realizable value of such inventories based on analysis and assumptions including, but not limited to, historical usage, expected future demand and market requirements. A change to the carrying value of inventories is recorded to cost of goods sold.
Prepaid Expenses
Prepaid expenses current and long term amounted to approximately $
Investments
The Company applies the equity method of accounting to investments when it has significant influence, but not controlling interest, in the investee. Judgment regarding the level of influence over each equity method investment includes considering key factors such as ownership interest, representation on the board of directors, participation in policy-making decisions and material intercompany transactions. The carrying value of our equity method investment is reported as “equity method investment” on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company’s equity method investment is reported at cost and adjusted each period for the Company’s share of the investee’s income or loss and dividend paid, if any. The Company’s proportionate share of the net loss resulting from these investments is reported under the line item captioned “equity in net loss of affiliate” in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. Note 15 contains additional information on the equity method investment.
The Company assesses investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an investment may not be recoverable. Management reviewed the underlying net assets of the investee as of December 31, 2023 and determined that the Company’s proportionate economic interest in the investee indicate that the investments were not impaired.
Foreign Currency Translation
The Company’s reporting currency is U.S. Dollars. The accounts of one of the Company’s subsidiaries, GTC, is maintained using the appropriate local currency, Great British Pound, as the functional currency. All assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. Dollars at balance sheet date, shareholders’ equity is translated at historical rates and revenue and expense accounts are translated at the average exchange rate for the year or the reporting period. The translation adjustments are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity, captioned as accumulated other comprehensive (loss) gain. Transaction gains and losses arising from exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency are included in the statements of operations.
The relevant translation rates are as follows: for the year ended December 31, 2023, closing rate at $
Revenue Recognition and Unearned Revenue
In accordance with ASU No. 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedient, which is to (1) clarify the objective of the collectability criterion for applying paragraph 606-10-25-7; (2) permit an entity to exclude amounts collected from customers for all sales (and other similar) taxes from the transaction price; (3) specify that the measurement date for noncash consideration is contract inception; (4) provide a practical expedient that permits an entity to reflect the aggregate effect of all modifications that occur before the beginning of the earliest period presented when identifying the satisfied and unsatisfied performance obligations, determining the transaction price, and allocating the transaction price to the satisfied and unsatisfied performance obligations; (5) clarify that a completed contract for purposes of transition is a contract for which all (or substantially all) of the revenue was recognized under legacy GAAP before the date of initial application, and (6) clarify that an entity that retrospectively applies the guidance in Topic 606 to each prior reporting period is not required to disclose the effect of the accounting change for the period of adoption. The amendments of this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. There was no impact as a result of adopting this ASU on the financial statements and related disclosures. Based on the terms and conditions of the product arrangements, the Company believes that its products and services can be accounted for separately as its products and services have value to the Company’s customers on a stand-alone basis. When a transaction involves more than one product or service, revenue is allocated to each deliverable based on its relative fair value; otherwise, revenue is recognized as products are delivered or as services are provided over the term of the customer contract.
e-Commerce Operations:
The Company recognizes revenue from satellite services when earned, as services are rendered or delivered to customers. Equipment sales revenue is recognized when the equipment is delivered to and accepted by the customer. Only equipment sales are subject to warranty. Historically, the Company has not incurred significant expenses for warranties. Equipment sales which have been prepaid, before the goods are shipped are recorded as contract liabilities and once shipped is recognized as revenue. The Company also records as contract liabilities, certain annual plans for airtime, which are paid in advance. Once airtime services are incurred, they are recognized as revenue. Unbilled revenue is recognized for airtime plans whereby the customer is invoiced for its data usage the following month after services are incurred.
The Company’s customers generally purchase a combination of our products and services as part of a multiple element arrangement. The Company’s assessment of which revenue recognition guidance is appropriate to account for each element in an arrangement can involve significant judgment. This assessment has a significant impact on the amount and timing of revenue recognition.
The Company recognizes revenue when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services, in an amount that reflects the consideration which we expect to receive in exchange for those goods or services. To determine revenue recognition for arrangements that the Company determines are within the scope of ASC 606, we perform the following five steps: (i) identify the contract(s) with a customer; (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (iii) determine the transaction price; (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) we satisfy a performance obligation. The five-step model is applied to contracts when it is probable that we will collect the consideration we are entitled to in exchange for the goods or services transferred to the customer. At contract inception, once the contract is determined to be within the scope of ASC 606, we assess the goods or services promised within each contract and determine those that are performance obligations and assess whether each promised good or service is distinct. We then recognize revenue in the amount of the transaction price that is allocated to the respective performance obligation when (or as) the performance obligation is satisfied.
Contract liabilities are shown separately in the consolidated balance sheets as current liabilities. At December 31, 2023, we had contract liabilities of approximately $
Healthcare Operations:
The Company provides prescription pharmaceuticals, COVID-19 related diagnostics and vaccinations, TPA services, and contracted pharmacy services for 340B covered entities under the 340B Drug Discount Pricing Program. Under the terms of the contracted pharmacy services for 340B covered entities, the Company acts as a pass-through for reimbursements on prescription claims adjudicated on behalf of the 340B covered entities in exchange for a dispensing fee per prescription.
The Company recognizes product sales from prescriptions dispensed to patients (customers) at the time the drugs are physically delivered to a customer or when a customer picks up their prescription, which is the point in time when control transfers to the customer. 340B dispensing fees are a component of 340B contract revenue, which are recognized at the time the drugs are received by the patient, by either delivery or customer pick up. Each prescription claim is considered an arrangement with the customer and is a separate performance obligation. Payments are received directly from the customer at the point of sale, or the customers’ insurance provider is billed electronically. For third-party medical insurance and other claims, authorization is obtained to ensure payment from the customer’s insurance provider before the medication is dispensed to the customer. Authorization is obtained for these sales electronically and a corresponding authorization number is issued by the customer’s insurance provider. The Company is the agent in all of the 340B pharmacy dispensing service agreements transactions with 340B covered entities and not the principal in the transactions. Thus, the Company only recognizes its net fee for the prescription dispensing transactions and not the gross billing and cost of goods sold for the drugs dispensed.
The Company accrues an estimate of PBM fees, including direct and indirect remuneration (“DIR”) fees, which are assessed or expected to be assessed by payers at some point after adjudication of a claim, as a reduction of prescription revenue at the time revenue is recognized. Changes in the estimate of such fees are recorded as an adjustment to revenue when the change becomes known.
DIR fees are fees charged by PBMs to pharmacies for network participation as well as periodic reimbursement reconciliations. For some PBMs, DIR fees are charged at the time of the settlement of a pharmacy claim. Other PBMs do not determine DIR fees at the claim settlement date, and therefore DIR fees are collected from pharmacies after claim settlement, often as clawbacks of reimbursements based on factors that vary from plan to plan. For example, two PBMs calculate DIR fees on a trimester basis and charge the Company for these fees as reductions of reimbursements paid to the Company two to three months after the end of the trimester (e.g., DIR fees for January – April 2023 claims were clawback by these PBMs in July – August 2023). For DIR fees that are not collected at the time of claim settlement, the Company records an accrued liability at each reporting date for estimated DIR fees that are expected to be collected by the PBMs in a future period. The estimated liability for these fees is highly subjective and the actual amount collected may differ from the accrued liability. The uncertainty of management’s estimates is due to inadequate disclosure to the Company by the PBMs as to exactly how these fees are calculated either at the time the DIR fees are actually assessed and reported to the Company. The detail level of the disclosure of assessed DIR fees varies based on the information provided by the PBM.
Billings for most prescription orders are with third-party payers, including Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance carriers. Customer returns are nominal.
The Company recognizes revenue from TPA services as it satisfies the performance obligations under the TPA contract with a 340B covered entity. TPA services provided to covered entities include consulting services, accounting and reconciliation of contract pharmacy billings, and various compliance services. The covered entity simultaneously receives and consumes benefits as the Company performs services under the TPA contract. These services are capable of being distinct from one another, e.g., the covered entity may receive benefit from each separate service, but in the context of a TPA contract, the services are not distinct with the context of the TPA contract. Instead, the Company provides a significant service of integrating the services into a combined output that benefits the covered entity. Therefore, the Company considers the combined services to be a single performance obligation in each TPA contract.
For each TPA contract, the Company recognizes revenue by measuring the progress toward complete satisfaction of each performance obligation. The Company uses various observable output methods in measuring progress toward satisfaction of each performance obligation, most notably gross billings under each contract.
ASC 606 provides a practical expedient wherein an entity may recognize revenue in the amount to which it has a right to invoice a customer if the entity has a right to consideration from the customer in an amount that corresponds directly with the value to the customer of the entity’s performance completed to date. This expedient could be available, for example, for a service contract in which an entity bills a fixed amount for each hour of service provided. The Company believes that this practical expedient applies to its TPA contracts and we have elected this method in measuring revenue over the TPA contract term.
The Company recognizes COVID-19 testing revenue when the tests are performed and results are delivered to the customer. Each test is considered an arrangement with the customer and is a separate performance obligation. Payment is generally received in advance from the customer.
Cost of Product Sales and Services
Cost of sales consists primarily of materials, airtime and overhead costs incurred internally and amounts incurred to contract manufacturers to produce our products, airtime and other implementation costs incurred to install our products and train customer personnel, and customer service and third-party original equipment manufacturer costs to provide continuing support to our customers. There are certain costs which are deferred and recorded as prepaids, until such revenue is recognized. Refer to revenue recognition above as to what constitutes deferred revenue.
Shipping and handling costs are included as a component of costs of product sales in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations because the Company includes in revenue the related costs that the Company bills its customers.
Advertising
Costs incurred for producing and communicating advertising for the Company are charged to operations as incurred. Advertising expense was approximately $
Intangible Assets
Acquired intangible assets with finite lives other than goodwill are amortized over their useful lives. For intangible assets acquired in a business combination, the estimated fair values of the assets received are used to establish their recorded values. Acquired intangible assets other than goodwill are amortized over their useful lives unless the lives are determined to be indefinite. Valuation techniques consistent with the market approach, income approach, and/or cost approach are used to measure fair value. Intangible assets subject to amortization represent the fair value of pharmacy records, tradenames and customer contracts acquired, and capitalized software development costs. In valuing these assets, the Company makes assumptions regarding useful lives and projected growth rates, and significant judgment is required. The Company periodically reviews its identifiable intangible assets for impairment as events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. If the carrying amounts of those assets exceed their respective fair values, additional impairment tests are performed to measure the amount of the impairment losses, if any.
Pharmacy records and developed software are amortized over
Business acquisitions
The Company records business acquisitions using the acquisition method of accounting. All of the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and contractual contingencies are recognized at their fair value on the acquisition date. The application of the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations requires management to make significant estimates and assumptions in the determination of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in order to properly allocate purchase price consideration between assets that are depreciated and amortized and goodwill. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. Acquisition-related expenses and restructuring costs are recognized separately from the business combination and are expensed as incurred. The Company uses a measurement period following the acquisition date to gather information that existed as of the acquisition date that is needed to determine the fair value of the assets acquired, liabilities assumed and equity interests. The measurement period ends once all information is obtained, but no later than one year from the acquisition date
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the value assigned to net tangible and identifiable intangible assets. Progressive Care, which is our Healthcare Operations, is considered to be the reporting unit for goodwill. Valuation techniques consistent with the market approach, income approach, and/or cost approach are used to measure fair value. Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are assessed annually for impairment in the fourth fiscal quarter and in interim periods if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets may be impaired.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are carried at historical cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is based on the estimated service lives of the depreciable assets and is calculated using the straight-line method. Expenditures that increase the value or productive capacity of assets are capitalized. Fully depreciated assets are retained in the property and equipment, and accumulated depreciation accounts until they are removed from service. When property and equipment are retired, sold or otherwise disposed of, the asset’s carrying amount and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is included in operations. Repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.
The estimated useful lives of property and equipment are generally as follows:
| Years | ||||
| Building | | |||
| Building improvements | Remaining life of the building | |||
| Leasehold improvements | Lessor of the estimated useful life or life of the lease | |||
| Office furniture and fixtures | | |||
| Computer equipment | | |||
| Rental equipment | | |||
| Vehicles | | |||
| Appliques | | |||
| Website development | | |||
Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022 was approximately $
Impairment of Long-lived Assets
The Company reviews its long-lived assets, comprised of property and equipment, right-of-use assets, and intangible assets, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable and consider market participants in accordance with ASC 360-10, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. The Company evaluates the long-lived assets of the reporting units for impairment at the lowest asset group level for which individual cash flows can be identified. When evaluating long-lived assets for potential impairment, the carrying amount of the asset group is compared to the estimated future undiscounted cash flows. The impairment loss calculation compares the carrying amount of the assets to the fair value based on estimated discounted future cash flows. If required, an impairment loss is recorded for that portion of the asset’s carrying value in excess of fair value. As of December 31, 2023, there were no indications that the carrying amounts of our long-lived assets exceeded their respective fair values. The Company did not consider it necessary to record any impairment charges during the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Derivatives are required to be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. These derivatives, including embedded derivatives in the Company’s structured borrowings, are separately valued and accounted for on the Company’s balance sheet. Fair values for exchange traded securities and derivatives are based on quoted market prices. Where market prices are not readily available, fair values are determined using market-based pricing models incorporating readily observable market data and requiring judgment and estimates.
The Company did not identify any other assets or liabilities that are required to be presented on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value in accordance with the accounting guidance. The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for cash, accounts payable, accrued expenses, and notes payable approximate their estimated fair market values based on the short-term maturity of the instruments.
Stock-based Compensation
Stock-based compensation is accounted for based on the requirements of the Share-Based Payment Topic of ASC 718 which requires recognition in the consolidated financial statements of the cost of employee and director services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments over the period the employee or director is required to perform the services in exchange for the award (presumptively, the vesting period). The ASC also requires measurement of the cost of employee and director services received in exchange for an award based on the grant-date fair value of the award.
The Company estimated the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option-pricing formula. This fair value is then amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service periods of the awards, which is generally the vesting period. The Company’s determination of the fair value using the option-pricing model is affected by the stock price as well as assumptions regarding the number of highly subjective variables.
In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-07, Compensation – Stock Compensation. (Topic 718). This update was intended to reduce cost and complexity and to improve financial reporting for share-based payments issues to non-employees (for example, service providers, external legal counsel, suppliers, etc.). The ASU expanded the scope of ASC 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation, which previously only included share-based payments issued to employees, to include share-based payments issues to non-employees for goods and services. Consequently, the accounting for share-based payment to non-employees and employees will be substantially aligned. This standard became effective for the financial statements issues by public companies for the annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Management adopted this standard on January 1, 2019.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes pursuant to the provision of ASC 740-10, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“ASC 740-10”) which requires, among other things, an asset and liability approach to calculating deferred income taxes. The asset and liability approach require the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is provided to offset any net deferred tax assets for which management believes it is more likely than not that the net deferred asset will not be realized.
The Company follows the provision of ASC 740-10 related to Accounting for Uncertain Income Tax Positions. When tax returns are filed, there may be uncertainty about the merits of positions taken or the amount of the position that would be ultimately sustained. In accordance with the guidance of ASC 740-10, the benefit of a tax position is recognized in the financial statements in the period during which, based on all available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any. Tax positions taken are not offset or aggregated with other positions.
Tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold is measured at the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefit associated with tax positions taken that exceed the amount measured as described above should be reflected as a liability for uncertain tax benefits in the accompanying balance sheet along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon examination.
The Company believes its tax positions are all more likely than not to be upheld upon examination. As such, the Company has not recorded a liability for uncertain tax benefits.
The Company has adopted ASC 740-10-25, “Definition of Settlement,” which provides guidance on how an entity should determine whether a tax position is effectively settled for the purpose of recognizing previously unrecognized tax benefits and provides that a tax position can be effectively settled upon the completion and examination by a taxing authority without being legally extinguished. For tax positions considered effectively settled, an entity would recognize the full amount of tax benefit, even if the tax position is not considered more likely than not to be sustained based solely on the basis of its technical merits and the statute of limitations remains open. The federal and state income tax returns of the Company are subject to examination by the IRS and state taxing authorities, generally for three years after they are filed.
Leases
Effective January 1, 2019, the Company accounts for its leases under ASC 842, Leases. Under this guidance, we determine if an arrangement contains a lease at inception based on whether or not the Company has the right to control the asset during the contract period and other facts and circumstances. Arrangements meeting the definition of a lease are classified as operating or financing leases and are recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as both a right of use asset and lease liability, calculated by discounting fixed lease payments over the lease term at the rate implicit in the lease or the Company’s incremental borrowing rate. Lease liabilities are increased by interest and reduced by payments each period, and the right of use asset is amortized over the lease term. For operating leases, interest on the lease liability and the amortization of the right of use asset result in straight-line rent expense over the lease term. For finance leases, interest on the lease liability and the amortization of the right of use asset results in front-loaded expense over the lease term. Variable lease expenses are recorded when incurred.
In calculating the right of use asset and lease liability, the Company has elected to combine lease and non-lease components. The Company excludes short-term leases having initial terms of 12 months or less from the new guidance as an accounting policy election and recognizes rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Research and Development
The Company accounts for research and development costs in accordance with the Accounting Standards Codification subtopic 730-10, Research and Development (“ASC 730-10”). Under ASC 730-10, all research and development costs must be charged to expense as incurred. Accordingly, internal research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Third-party research and development costs are expensed when the contracted work has been performed or as milestone results have been achieved. Company-sponsored research and development costs related to both present and future products are expensed in the period incurred. For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were no expenditures on research and development.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) is comprised of net income (loss) and all changes to the statements of stockholders’ equity. For the Company, comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 included net income (loss) and unrealized income (losses) from foreign currency translation adjustments.
Earnings per Common Share
Net income (loss) per common share is calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 260: Earnings per Share (“ASC 260”). Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. The computation of diluted net loss per share does not include dilutive common stock equivalents in the weighted average shares outstanding as they would be anti-dilutive. In periods where the Company has a net loss, all dilutive securities are excluded.
Related Party Transactions
A party is considered to be related to the Company if the party directly or indirectly or through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the Company. Related parties also include principal owners of the Company, its management, members of the immediate families of principal owners of the Company and its management and other parties with which the Company may deal if one party controls or can significantly influence the management or operating policies of the other to an extent that one of the transacting parties might be prevented from fully pursuing its own separate interests. A party which can significantly influence the management or operating policies of the transacting parties or if it has an ownership interest in one of the transacting parties and can significantly influence the other to an extent that one or more of the transacting parties might be prevented from fully pursuing its own separate interests is also a related party, (see Note 25).
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted
In August 2023, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2023-04, “Liabilities (Topic 405) - Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121”, to amend and add various SEC paragraphs in the Accounting Standards Codification to reflect the issuance of SEC Staff Bulletin No. 121.
In July 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-03, “Presentation of Financial Statement (Topic 205), Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (Topic 480), Equity (Topic 505), and Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718)”, to amend various SEC paragraphs in the Accounting Standards Codification to reflect the issuance of SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 120, among other things. The Company adopted this conforming guidance upon issuance and the adoption had no material impact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326) Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” (“ASU 2016-13”), which introduces an impairment model based on expected, rather than incurred, losses. Additionally, it requires expanded disclosures regarding (a) credit risk inherent in a portfolio and how management monitors the portfolio’s credit quality; (b) management’s estimate of expected credit losses; and (c) changes in estimates of expected credit losses that have taken place during the period. In November 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-19, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses.” This ASU clarifies receivables from operating leases are accounted for using the lease guidance and not as financial instruments. In April 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-04, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments.” This ASU clarifies various scoping and other issues arising from ASU 2016-13. In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-03, “Codification Improvements to Financial Instruments.” This ASU improves the Codification and amends the interaction of Topic 842 and Topic 326. ASU 2016-13 and related amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, with early adoption permitted. On an ongoing basis, the Company will contemplate forward-looking economic conditions in recording lifetime expected credit losses for the Company’s financial assets measured at cost.
Any new accounting standards, not disclosed above, that have been issued or proposed by FASB that do not require adoption until a future date are not expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements upon adoption.
Accounting Pronouncements Issued but not yet Adopted
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740)—Improvements to Income Tax Disclosure” (“ASU 2023-09”), which establishes new income tax disclosure requirements in addition to modifying and eliminating certain existing requirements. ASU 2023-09 is required to be adopted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company will adopt this accounting standard update effective January 1, 2025. The Company expects that the adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280) - Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures” (“ASU 2023-07”), which improves reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant expenses. ASU 2023-07 is required to be adopted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim period within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company will adopt this accounting standard update effective January 1, 2024. The Company expects that the adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Management has evaluated other recently issued accounting pronouncements and does not believe that any of these pronouncements will have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Note 4. Acquisition
On July 1, 2023, the Company, along with Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto, exercised common stock purchase warrants issued by Progressive Care (“RXMD Warrants”) and were issued shares of Progressive Care common stock. The Company exercised RXMD Warrants on a cashless basis and was issued
Also, on July 1, 2023, the Company entered into a voting agreement with Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto, whereby at any annual or special shareholders meeting of Progressive Care’s stockholders, and whenever the holders of Progressive Care’s common stock act by written consent, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto agreed to vote all of the shares of Progressive Care common stock (including any new shares of Progressive Care common stock acquired after the date of the voting agreement or acquired through the conversion of securities convertible into Progressive Care common stock) that they own, directly or indirectly, in the same manner that the Company votes its shares of Progressive Care common stock and equivalents. The voting agreement is irrevocable and perpetual in term.
As a result of the RXMD Warrant exercises and the entry into the voting agreement, the Company concluded that there was a change in control in Progressive Care. As of July 1, 2023, NextPlat has the right to control more than 50 percent of the voting interests in Progressive Care through the concurrent common stock purchase warrant exercises and voting agreement noted above. Beginning on July 1, 2023, the Company changed the accounting method for its investment in Progressive Care, which prior to July 1, 2023 had been accounted for as an equity method investment to consolidation under the voting interest model in FASB ASC Topic 805. Therefore, Progressive Care became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company on July 1, 2023.
Progressive Care contributed revenues of approximately $
| For the Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2023 | For the Year Ended December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | |||||||
| Revenue | $ | $ | ||||||
| Earnings | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
The Company did not have any material, nonrecurring pro forma adjustments directly attributable to the business combination included in the reported pro forma revenue and earnings.
The following table summarizes the consideration transferred to acquire a controlling interest in Progressive Care and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, as well as the fair value of the noncontrolling interest in Progressive Care at the acquisition date (in thousands):
| Purchase Price Allocation | ||||
| Total purchase consideration | $ | |||
| Fair value of non-controlling interest | ||||
| Total consideration | $ | |||
| Identifiable net assets acquired: | ||||
| Cash | $ | |||
| Accounts receivable, net | ||||
| Accounts receivable, other | ||||
| Inventory | ||||
| Prepaid expenses | ||||
| Property and equipment, net | ||||
| Right of use assets, net | ||||
| Intangible assets, net: | ||||
| Trade name | ||||
| Development technology | ||||
| Pharmacy records | ||||
| Deposits | ||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | ( | ) | ||
| Notes payable and accrued interest - current portion | ( | ) | ||
| Lease liabilities - current portion | ( | ) | ||
| Notes payable - long term | ( | ) | ||
| Lease liabilities - long term | ( | ) | ||
| Deferred tax liability (1) | ||||
| Net assets acquired | $ | |||
| Goodwill | $ | |||
(1) Under federal tax law, previously unidentified finite lived intangible assets recognized from a business combination have no tax basis and therefore are not amortized for tax purposes. This tax position created a book/tax basis difference that was previously not recognized at July 1, 2023, the date of the business combination transaction. Therefore, an approximate $
The total consideration is based on the fair value of the Company’s common stock outstanding at July 1, 2023, which was
As a result of NextPlat obtaining control over Progressive Care, NextPlat’s previously held equity interest in Progressive Care was remeasured to fair value, resulting in a gain of approximately $
The fair value of the noncontrolling interest of approximately $
The goodwill is attributable to the workforce of the acquired business and the significant synergies expected to arise after NextPlat’s acquisition of a controlling interest in Progressive Care. The goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
The initial recognition of the Progressive Care's identifiable intangible assets, resulting from the acquisition on July 1, 2023 and the application of push-down accounting, were measured using Level 3 inputs. The fair value at the date of acquisition was approximately $
Note 5. Fair Value
Accounting standards define fair value as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Accounting standards establish a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value and also establishes the following three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets and liabilities.
The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating fair value disclosures for financial instruments:
| ● | Cash, accounts receivable, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities: The amounts reported in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets approximate fair value due to their short-term nature. |
| ● | Notes payable and lease liabilities: The carrying amount of notes payable approximated fair value due to variable interest rates at customary terms and rates the Company could obtain in current financing. The carrying value of lease liabilities approximated fair value due to the implicit rate in the lease in relation to the Company’s borrowing rate and the duration of the leases (Level 2 inputs). |
Note 6. Revenue
e-Commerce revenue:
The Company recognizes revenue from satellite services when earned, as services are rendered or delivered to customers. Equipment sales revenue is recognized when the equipment is delivered to and accepted by the customer. Only equipment sales are subject to warranty. Historically, the Company has not incurred significant expenses for warranties. Equipment sales which have been prepaid, before the goods are shipped are recorded as contract liabilities and once shipped and accepted by the customer is recognized as revenue. The Company also records as contract liabilities, certain annual plans for airtime, which are paid in advance. Once airtime services are incurred, they are recognized as revenue. Unbilled revenue is recognized for airtime plans whereby the customer is invoiced for its data usage the following month after services are incurred.
Healthcare revenue:
The Company recognizes pharmacy revenue and 340B contract revenue from dispensing prescription drugs at the time the drugs are physically delivered to a customer or when a customer picks up their prescription or purchases merchandise at the store, which is the point in time when control transfers to the customer. Each prescription claim is considered an arrangement with the customer and is a separate performance obligation. Payments are received directly from the customer at the point of sale, or the customers’ insurance provider is billed electronically. For third-party medical insurance and other claims, authorization is obtained to ensure payment from the customer’s insurance provider before the medication is dispensed to the customer. Authorization is obtained for these sales electronically and a corresponding authorization number is issued by the customers’ insurance provider.
The Company accrues an estimate of pharmacy benefit manager (“PBM”) fees, including direct and indirect remuneration (“DIR”) fees, which are assessed or expected to be assessed by payers at some point after adjudication of a claim, as a reduction of revenue at the time revenue is recognized. Changes in the estimate of such fees are recorded as an adjustment to revenue when the change becomes known.
The Company recognizes COVID-19 testing revenue when the tests are performed and results are delivered to the customer. Each test is considered an arrangement with the customer and is a separate performance obligation. Payment is generally received in advance from the customer.
The following table disaggregates net revenues by categories (in thousands):
| For the Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2023 | ||||||||||||
| e-Commerce Operations | Healthcare Operations | Total | ||||||||||
| Sales of products, net | ||||||||||||
| Prescription revenue, net of PBM fees | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| e-Commerce revenue | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| Subtotal | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| Revenues from services: | ||||||||||||
| Pharmacy 340B contract revenue | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| Revenues, net | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| For the Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2022 | ||||||||||||
| e-Commerce Operations | Healthcare Operations | Total | ||||||||||
| Sales of products, net | ||||||||||||
| Prescription revenue, net of PBM fees | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| e-Commerce revenue | ||||||||||||
| Subtotal | $ | |||||||||||
| Revenues from services: | ||||||||||||
| Pharmacy 340B contract revenue | $ | |||||||||||
| Revenues, net | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
Note 7. Earnings (Loss) per Share
Net income (loss) per common share is calculated in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 260: Earnings per Share (“ASC 260”). Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. The computation of diluted net loss per share does not include dilutive common stock equivalents in the weighted average shares outstanding as they would be anti-dilutive. In periods where the Company has a net loss, all dilutive securities are excluded. The components of basic and diluted EPS were as follows (in thousands, except per share data):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Net loss attributable to NextPlat Corp common shareholders | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Basic weighted average common shares outstanding | ||||||||
| Potentially dilutive common shares | ||||||||
| Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding | ||||||||
| Basic weighted average earnings (loss) per common share | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Diluted weighted average earnings (loss) per common share | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Potentially dilutive common shares excluded from the calculation of diluted weighted average loss per common share: | ||||||||
| Stock options | ||||||||
| Common stock purchase warrants | ||||||||
Note 8. Accounts Receivable
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, accounts receivable consisted of the following (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Gross accounts receivable – trade | $ | $ | ||||||
| Less: allowance for doubtful accounts | ( | ) | ||||||
| Accounts receivable – trade, net | $ | $ | ||||||
Bad debt expense was approximately $
The increase in accounts receivable was attributable to the consolidation of Progressive Care at July 1, 2023.
Note 9. Accounts Receivable - Other, net
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, accounts receivable - other, net consisted of the following (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Performance bonuses | $ | $ | ||||||
| Customers | ||||||||
| Other | ||||||||
| $ | $ | |||||||
Performance bonuses, paid annually by PBMs, are estimated based on historical pharmacy performance and prior payments received. Other receivables are loans to employees.
The increase in accounts receivable - other was attributable to the consolidation of Progressive Care at July 1, 2023.
Note 10. Inventory
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, inventories consisted of the following (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Finished goods | $ | $ | ||||||
| Less reserve for obsolete inventory | ( | ) | ||||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||
The increase in inventory was attributable to the consolidation of Progressive Care as of July 1, 2023.
Note 11. VAT Receivable
On January 1, 2021, VAT rules relating to imports and exports between the UK and EU changed as a result of the UK’s departure from the EU. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recorded a receivable in the amount of approximately $
Note 12. Prepaid Expenses
Prepaid expenses current and long term amounted to approximately $
The increase in prepaid expenses was attributable to the consolidation of Progressive Care as of July 1, 2023.
Note 13. Property and Equipment, net
Property and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Building | $ | $ | ||||||
| Vehicles | ||||||||
| Office furniture and fixtures | ||||||||
| Land | ||||||||
| Leasehold improvements | ||||||||
| Computer equipment | ||||||||
| Rental equipment | ||||||||
| Appliques | ||||||||
| Website development | ||||||||
| Construction in progress | ||||||||
| Property and equipment gross | ||||||||
| Less: accumulated depreciation | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Property and equipment, net | $ | $ | ||||||
Depreciation expense was approximately $
The increase in property and equipment was attributable to the consolidation of Progressive Care as of July 1, 2023.
Note 14. Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net
Goodwill
The following table reflects changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the periods presented by reportable segments (in thousands):
| e-Commerce Operations | Healthcare Operations | Total | ||||||||||
| Balances as of December 31, 2021 | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| Accumulated impairment losses | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill, net as of December 31, 2021 | ||||||||||||
| Changes in Goodwill during the year ended December 31, 2022: | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill acquired | ||||||||||||
| Impairment losses | ||||||||||||
| Balances as of December 31, 2022 | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill | ||||||||||||
| Accumulated impairment losses | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill, net as of December 31, 2022 | ||||||||||||
| Changes in Goodwill during the year ended December 31, 2023: | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill acquired | ||||||||||||
| Impairment losses | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Balances as of December 31, 2023 | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill | ||||||||||||
| Accumulated impairment losses | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Goodwill, net as of December 31, 2023 | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| 1. | Increase related to book tax difference of intangible assets arising from the business combination without transfer of consideration. |
The initial recognition of goodwill resulting from the acquisition of Progressive Care on July 1, 2023. The Company performed an annual impairment test for goodwill as of December 31, 2023.
The Company performed an annual impairment test as of December 31, 2023, for our healthcare operations reporting segments. The fair value of each reporting unit was estimated using the income valuation approach. The income approach applied a fair value methodology to each reporting unit based on discounted cash flows. The various inputs to this fair value model are considered Level 3. This analysis requires significant judgments, including estimation of future cash flows, which is dependent on internally-developed forecasts of revenue and profitability, estimation of the long-term rate of growth for the business, estimation of the useful life over which cash flows will occur, and determination of the weighted average cost of capital, which is risk-adjusted to reflect the specific risk profile of the reporting unit being tested. The weighted average cost of capital used in the impairment test ranged from 11% to 13.5%.
As a result of the 2023 annual impairment test, the Company concluded that the carrying amount of the Pharmacy Operations reporting unit goodwill exceeded its fair value by 95% and recorded a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of approximately $
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets, net consisted of the following (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | ||||||||||||
| Gross amount | Accumulated amortization | Net Amount | ||||||||||
| Pharmacy records | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Trade names | ( | ) | ||||||||||
| Developed technology | ( | ) | ||||||||||
| Customer Contracts | ( | ) | ||||||||||
| Total intangible assets | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| December 31, 2022 | ||||||||||||
| Gross amount | Accumulated amortization | Net Amount | ||||||||||
| Pharmacy records | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| Trade names | ||||||||||||
| Developed technology | ||||||||||||
| Customer Contracts | ( | ) | ||||||||||
| Total intangible assets | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
Amortization of pharmacy records, trade names, developed technology, and customer contracts is included in depreciation and amortization in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Loss. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized amortization expense of approximately $
| 2024 | $ | |||
| 2025 | ||||
| 2026 | ||||
| 2027 | ||||
| 2028 | ||||
| Thereafter | ||||
| Total | $ |
Note 15. Equity Method Investment
On August 30, 2022, NextPlat entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”) between NextPlat and Progressive Care, under which NextPlat, its Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Charles M. Fernandez, board member, Rodney Barreto, and certain other investors invested an aggregate of $
In addition, on August 30, 2022, NextPlat Corp, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto, and certain other investors (collectively, the “NextPlat Investors”) entered into a Modification Agreement wherein the terms were modified for an existing Secured Convertible Promissory Note (the “Note”) originally held by a third party note holder and sold to the NextPlat Investors. The NextPlat Investors purchased the Note as part of a Confidential Note Purchase and Release Agreement between the former note holder and the NextPlat Investors. As of the date of the SPA, the aggregate amount of principal and interest outstanding on the Note was approximately $
On September 13, 2022, the Progressive Care Board of Directors appointed Charles M. Fernandez as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Rodney Barreto as the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors. In connection with these appointments, Alan Jay Weisberg, Progressive Care’s current Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, was appointed to serve as a Vice Chairman. On September 12, 2022, two of Progressive Care’s Directors, Birute Norkute and Oleg Firer, resigned as Directors. On October 7, 2022, the Progressive Care Board of Directors unanimously voted to approve the appointment of Pedro Rodriguez, MD to the Board. Dr. Rodriguez was nominated to the Progressive Care Board by NextPlat.
On November 11, 2022, Mr. Weisberg resigned from his positions as Progressive Care’s Chief Executive Officer and co-Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors. On the same date, the Board appointed Mr. Fernandez to serve as the new Chief Executive Officer immediately.
On December 29, 2022, Progressive Care filed a Certificate of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation (the “Amendment to Articles”) with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Pursuant to the Amendment to Articles, each
On May 5, 2023, NextPlat entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”) with Progressive Care, pursuant to which the Company purchased
Simultaneous with the closing of the Unit Purchase on May 9, 2023, Progressive Care entered into a Debt Conversion Agreement (the “DCA”) with NextPlat and the other holders (the “Holders”) of that certain Amended and Restated Secured Convertible Promissory Note, dated as of September 2, 2022, made by Progressive Care in the original face amount of approximately $
At the same time, Progressive Care and NextPlat entered into a First Amendment (the “Amendment”) to that certain Securities Purchase Agreement dated November 16, 2022 (the “Debenture Purchase Agreement”). Under the Debenture Purchase Agreement, Progressive Care agreed to issue, and NextPlat Corp agreed to purchase, from time to time during the -year term of the Debenture Purchase Agreement, up to an aggregate of $
As a result of the common stock purchase warrant exercises and the entry into the voting agreement as described in Note 4, NextPlat concluded that there was a change in control in Progressive Care. As of July 1, 2023, NextPlat has the right to control more than 50 percent of the voting interests in Progressive Care through the concurrent common stock purchase warrant exercises and voting agreement. Beginning on July 1, 2023, the Company changed the accounting method for its investment in Progressive Care, which prior to July 1, 2023 had been accounted for as an equity method investment, to consolidation under the voting interest model in FASB ASC Topic 805. Therefore, Progressive Care became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company on July 1, 2023.
The following summarizes the Company’s consolidated balance sheet description equity method investment as follows as of December 31, 2023 (in thousands):
| Carrying Amount | ||||
| December 31, 2022, beginning balance | $ | |||
| Investment in Progressive Care Inc. and Subsidiaries | ||||
| Gain on equity method investment | ||||
| Portion of loss from Progressive Care, Inc. and Subsidiaries | ( | ) | ||
| Depreciation expense due to cost basis difference (1) | ( | ) | ||
| Interest earned from convertible note receivable | ||||
| Interest earned from amortization of premium on convertible note receivable | ||||
| Elimination of intercompany interest earned | ( | ) | ||
| Change in accounting method as of July 1, 2023 | ( | ) | ||
| December 31, 2023, carrying amount | $ | |||
The following summarizes the Company’s consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss description equity in net loss of affiliate for the year ended December 31, 2023 as follows (in thousands):
| For the Year Ended December 31, 2023 | ||||
| Portion of loss from Progressive Care, Inc. and Subsidiaries | $ | ( | ) | |
| Depreciation expense due to cost basis difference (1) | ( | ) | ||
| Interest earned from convertible note receivable | ||||
| Interest earned from amortization of premium on convertible note receivable | ||||
| Elimination of intercompany interest earned | ( | ) | ||
| Equity in net loss of affiliate | $ | ( | ) | |
| (1) | NextPlat records depreciation expense on its estimated cost basis difference which is subject to change |
Note 16. Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses
Accounts payable and accrued expenses consisted of the following (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Accounts payable | $ | $ | ||||||
| Accrued wages and payroll liabilities | ||||||||
| Accrued PBM fees | ||||||||
| Customer deposits payable | ||||||||
| Accrued legal fees | ||||||||
| Pre-merger accrued other liabilities | ||||||||
| Accrued other liabilities | ||||||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||
The increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses was attributable to the consolidation of Progressive Care at July 1, 2023.
Note 17. Notes Payable
Notes payable consisted of the following (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| A. Mortgage note payable - commercial bank - collateralized | $ | $ | ||||||
| B. Note payable - uncollateralized | ||||||||
| C. Notes payable - collateralized | ||||||||
| Insurance premiums financing | ||||||||
| Subtotal | ||||||||
| Less: current portion of notes payable | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Long-term portion of notes payable | $ | $ | ||||||
(A) Mortgage Note Payable – collateralized
In 2018, Progressive Care closed on the purchase of land and building located at 400 Ansin Boulevard, Hallandale Beach, Florida. The purchase price was financed in part through a mortgage note and security agreement entered into with a commercial lender in the amount of $
(B) Note Payable – Uncollateralized
As of December 31, 2023 the uncollateralized note payable represents a non-interest-bearing loan that is due on demand from an investor.
(C) Notes Payable – Collateralized
On July 16, 2020 (the “Issue Date”), GTC, entered into a Coronavirus Interruption Loan Agreement (“Debenture”) by and among the Company and HSBC UK Bank PLC (the “Lender”) for an amount of or USD $
In April 2021, Progressive Care entered into a note obligation with a commercial lender, the proceeds from which were used to purchase pharmacy equipment in the amount of approximately $
In July 2022, Progressive Care entered into a note obligation with a commercial lender, the proceeds from which were used to purchase pharmacy equipment in the amount of approximately $
In September 2022, Progressive Care entered into a note obligation with a commercial lender, the proceeds from which were used to purchase a vehicle in the amount of approximately $
Principal outstanding as of December 31, 2023, is expected to be repayable as follows (in thousands):
| Year | Amount | |||
| 2024 | $ | |||
| 2025 | ||||
| 2026 | ||||
| 2027 | ||||
| 2028 | ||||
| Thereafter | ||||
| Total | $ | |||
Note 18. Equity
Preferred Stock
We have authorized
Common Stock
We have authorized
Capital Structure
On May 28, 2021, the Company effected a reverse stock split of its common stock at a ratio of 1-for-
Listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market
Our common stock and warrants have been trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols “NXPL” and “NXPLW,” respectively, since January 21, 2022. Prior to January 21, 2022, our common stock and warrants were traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols “OSAT” and “OSATW,” respectively.
April 2023 Private Placement of Common Stock
On April 5, 2023, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with an accredited investor (the “Investor”) for the sale by the Company in a private placement of
December 2022 Private Placement of Common Stock (“ December Offering”)
On December 9, 2022, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain institutional and accredited investors for the sale by the Company in a private placement of
The offering closed on December 14, 2022, and the Company received gross proceeds of approximately $
On December 9, 2022, the Company entered into placement agency agreement (the “Placement Agency Agreement”) with Dawson James Securities, Inc. (“Dawson James”) pursuant to which Dawson James agreed to serve as lead or managing placement agent on a best efforts, agency basis in connection with the private placement of the Units. The Company has agreed to pay Dawson James a placement agent fee of
January 2022 Private Placement of Common Stock (“ January Offering”)
On January 2, 2022, the Company finalized and closed a securities purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) in connection with the sale in a private placement by the Company of
The Company received gross proceeds from the sale of the common stock of $
Note 19. Warrants
Underwriter Warrants
In addition to, but separate from, the registered warrants included in the units sold in the June Offering, the Company issued
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were
Placement Agent Warrants
On December 9, 2022, pursuant to the December Offering, the Company issued warrants to purchase
In addition to, but separate from, the unregistered warrants included in the units sold in the December Offering, the Company issued
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were
Stock Based Compensation Warrants
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company granted warrants as stock based compensations valued at approximately $
A summary of the status of the Company’s total outstanding warrants and changes during the year ended December 31, 2023 is as follows:
| Number of Warrants | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years) | ||||||||||
| Balance at January 1, 2022 | $ | |||||||||||
| Granted | ||||||||||||
| Exercised | - | - | ||||||||||
| Forfeited | - | - | - | |||||||||
| Cancelled | - | - | ||||||||||
| Balance outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2022 | $ | |||||||||||
| Balance at January 1, 2023 | $ | |||||||||||
| Granted | ||||||||||||
| Exercised | ( | ) | - | |||||||||
| Forfeited | - | - | - | |||||||||
| Cancelled | - | - | - | |||||||||
| Balance outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2023 | $ | |||||||||||
As of December 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022, there were
As of December 31, 2022, the Company had registered warrants of
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had registered warrants of
The Company determined that the warrants do not meet the definition of liability under FASB ASC Topic 480 and therefore classified the warrants as equity instruments.
Note 20. Stock-Based compensation
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, stock-based compensation expense recognized in SG&A expenses was approximately $
Stock Award Plans
The Company maintains stock incentive plans to attract, motivate and retain management, key employees, directors, and consultants. These plans provide for discretionary awards of, among others, stock options, stock awards, stock unit awards, and stock appreciation rights to participants (collectively, share-based awards).
Restricted Stock Awards
The following table summarizes our restricted stock awards activity:
| Number of Units | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | |||||||
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2021 | $ | |||||||
| Granted | ||||||||
| Vested | ( | ) | ||||||
| Forfeited | ||||||||
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2022 | ||||||||
| Granted | ||||||||
| Vested | ( | ) | ||||||
| Forfeited | ||||||||
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2023 | $ | |||||||
As of December 31, 2022, there was approximately $
As of December 31, 2023, there was approximately $
Stock Options
Stock options outstanding at December 31, 2023 and 2022, as disclosed in the below table, have approximately ($
A summary of the status of the Company’s outstanding stock options and changes during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, is as follows:
| Number of Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years) | |||||||||||||
| Balance at January 1, 2022 | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
| Granted | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
| Exercised | $ | $ | - | - | ||||||||||||
| Cancelled | ( | ) | $ | $ | - | - | ||||||||||
| Expired | ( | ) | $ | $ | - | - | ||||||||||
| Balance outstanding at December 31, 2022 | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
| Options exercisable at December 31, 2022 | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
| Balance at January 1, 2023 | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
| Granted | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
| Exercised | $ | $ | - | - | ||||||||||||
| Cancelled | ( | ) | $ | $ | - | - | ||||||||||
| Expired | ( | ) | $ | $ | - | - | ||||||||||
| Balance outstanding at December 31, 2023 | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
| Options exercisable at December 31, 2023 | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company granted
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company granted
As of December 31, 2022, there was approximately $
As of December 31, 2023, there was approximately $
Note 21. Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes under ASC Topic 740: Income Taxes which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for both the expected impact of differences between the financial statements and the tax basis of assets and liabilities, and for the expected future tax benefit to be derived from tax losses and tax credit carry forwards. ASC Topic 740 additionally requires the establishment of a valuation allowance to reflect the likelihood of realization of deferred tax assets.
The tax reform bill that Congress voted to approve December 20, 2017, also known as the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act”, made sweeping modifications to the Internal Revenue Code, including a much lower corporate tax rate, changes to credits and deductions, and a move to a territorial system for corporations that have overseas earnings. The act replaced the prior-law graduated corporate tax rate, which taxed income over $10.0 million at 35%, with a flat rate of 21%. Due to the continuing loss position of the Company, such changes should not be material.
For U.S. purposes, the Company has not completed its evaluation of NOL utilization limitations under Internal Revenue Code, as amended (the “Code”) Section 382, change of ownership rules. If the Company has had a change in ownership, the NOL’s would be limited as to the amount that could be utilized each year, or possibly eliminated, based on the Code. The Company has also, not completed its review of NOL’s pertaining to years the Company was known as “Silver Horn Mining Ltd.” and “Great West Resources, Inc.”, which may not be available due to IRC Section 382 and because of a change in business line that may eliminate NOL’s associated with ““Silver Horn Mining Ltd.” and “Great West Resources, Inc.” The company has also not reviewed the impact relating to “Recent Events” for its IRC Section 382 possible NOL’s limitation.
The components of earnings before income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows (in thousands):
| Year Ended | ||||||||
| December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Net loss after loss in equity method investment and before income taxes: | ||||||||
| Domestic | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Foreign | ||||||||
| $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | |||
Income tax provision (benefit) consists of the following for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands):
| Year Ended | ||||||||
| December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Income tax (benefit) provision: | ||||||||
| Current | ||||||||
| Federal | $ | ( | ) | $ | ||||
| State | ||||||||
| Foreign | ||||||||
| Total current | ||||||||
| Deferred: | ||||||||
| Federal | ||||||||
| State | ||||||||
| Foreign | ||||||||
| Total deferred | ||||||||
| Total income tax (benefit) provision | $ | $ | ||||||
The Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, GTC, is a United Kingdom (“UK”) Limited Company and files tax returns in the UK. Its estimated tax liability for December 31, 2023 and 2022 is approximately $
Progressive Care's estimated tax liability for December 31, 2023 is approximately $
A reconciliation of the income tax provision (benefit) by applying the statutory United States federal income tax rate to income (loss) before income taxes is as follows (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Federal income tax (benefit) provision at statutory rate | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| State tax expense net of federal tax benefit | ( | ) | ||||||
| State tax expense federal impact | ||||||||
| Provision true-up adjustments | ( | ) | ||||||
| State rate change adjustment | ( | ) | ||||||
| Foreign taxes at rate different than US Taxes | ||||||||
| Net operating loss deduction | ( | ) | ||||||
| Permanent differences | ( | ) | ||||||
| Other true-ups | ||||||||
| Change in valuation allowance | ||||||||
| Income tax (benefit) provision | $ | $ | ||||||
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are provided for significant income and expense items recognized in different years for tax and financial reporting purposes. Temporary differences, which give rise to a net deferred tax asset is as follows (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Deferred tax assets: | ||||||||
| Net operating loss carryforward | $ | $ | ||||||
| Property plant and equipment and intangibles asset | ||||||||
| Equity method investment loss | ||||||||
| Other tax carry-overs | ||||||||
| Reserves and allowances | ||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | ||||||||
| Total deferred tax assets | $ | $ | ||||||
| Deferred tax liabilities: | ||||||||
| Book basis of intangible assets in excess of tax basis | $ | $ | ||||||
| Total deferred tax liabilities | $ | $ | ||||||
| Net deferred tax asset before valuation allowance | $ | $ | ||||||
| Less: valuation allowance | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Net deferred tax asset | $ | $ | ||||||
Nextplat Corp's net operating loss carryforward increased from approximately $
Progressive Care's net operating loss carryforward decreased from approximately $
The Internal Revenue Code includes a provision, referred to as Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income (“GILTI”), which provides for a 10.5% tax on certain income of controlled foreign corporations. We have elected to account for GILTI as a period cost if and when occurred, rather than recognizing deferred taxes for basis differences expected to reverse.
The Company is subject to taxation in the U.S. and various states and foreign jurisdictions. U.S. federal income tax returns for and after remain open to examination. We and our subsidiaries are also subject to income tax in multiple states and foreign jurisdictions. Generally, foreign income tax returns after remain open to examination. No income tax returns are currently under examination. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company does have any unrecognized tax benefits, and continues to monitor its current and prior tax positions for any changes. The Company recognizes penalties and interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense. For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were penalties or interest recorded in income tax expense.
Note 22. Leases
The Company has entered into a number of lease arrangements under which the Company is the lessee. These leases are classified as operating leases. In addition, the Company has elected the short-term lease practical expedient in ASC Topic 842 related to real estate leases with terms of one year. The following is a summary of the Company’s lease arrangements.
Finance Lease Agreements
In May 2018, Progressive Care entered into a finance lease obligation to purchase pharmacy equipment with a cost of approximately $
In December 2020, Progressive Care entered into an interest-free finance lease obligation to purchase computer servers with a cost of approximately $
Operating Lease Agreements
On December 2, 2021, Nextplat entered into a
For our facilities in Poole, England, we rent office and warehouse space of approximately
Progressive Care entered into a lease agreement for its Orlando pharmacy in August 2020. The term of the lease is
Progressive Care leases its North Miami Beach pharmacy location under an operating lease agreement with a lease commencement date in September 2021. The term of the lease is
Progressive Care also leases its Palm Beach County pharmacy locations under operating lease agreements expiring in February 2024.
During June 2023 Nextplat entered into a
Variable expenses generally represent the Company’s share of the landlord’s operating expenses.
Right of use assets for operating leases are periodically reduced by impairment losses. We use the long-lived assets impairment guidance in ASC Subtopic 360-10, Property, Plant, and Equipment – Overall, to determine whether an ROU asset is impaired, and if so, the amount of the impairment loss to recognize. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we have recognized any impairment losses for our ROU assets.
We monitor for events or changes in circumstances that require a reassessment of one of our leases. When a reassessment results in the re-measurement of a lease liability, a corresponding adjustment is made to the carrying amount of the corresponding ROU asset unless doing so would reduce the carrying amount of the ROU asset to an amount less than zero. In that case, the amount of the adjustment that would result in a negative ROU asset balance is recorded in profit or loss.
We recognized lease costs associated with all leases as follows (in thousands):
| For the Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Operating lease cost: | ||||||||
| Fixed rent expense | $ | $ | ||||||
| Variable rent expense | ||||||||
| Finance lease cost: | ||||||||
| Amortization of right-of-use assets | ||||||||
| Interest expense | ||||||||
| Total Lease Costs | $ | $ | ||||||
Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows (in thousand):
| For the Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: | ||||||||
| Operating cash flows from operating leases | $ | $ | ||||||
| Financing cash flows from finance leases | ||||||||
| Total cash paid for lease liabilities | $ | $ | ||||||
Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Operating leases: | ||||||||
| Operating lease right-of-use assets, net | $ | $ | ||||||
| Operating lease liabilities: | ||||||||
| Current portion | ||||||||
| Long-term portion | ||||||||
| $ | $ | |||||||
| Weighted average remaining lease term (years) | ||||||||
| Weighted average discount rate | % | % | ||||||
| Finance leases: | ||||||||
| Finance lease right-of-use assets, net | $ | |||||||
| Finance lease liabilities: | ||||||||
| Current portion | ||||||||
| Long-term portion | ||||||||
| $ | $ | |||||||
| Weighted average remaining lease term (years) | - | |||||||
| Weighted average discount rate | % | |||||||
Future minimum lease payments are as follows (in thousands):
| Years Ending December 31, | Finance Lease | Operating Lease | Total Future Lease Commitments | |||||||||
| 2024 | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| 2025 | ||||||||||||
| 2026 | ||||||||||||
| 2027 | ||||||||||||
| Total lease payments to be paid | ||||||||||||
| Less: future interest expense | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||
| Lease liabilities | ||||||||||||
| Less: current maturities | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||
| Long-term portion of lease liabilities | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
Note 23. Reportable Segments
The Company has reportable segments: (i) e-Commerce Operations, which involves acquiring and leasing, primarily an e-commerce platform to collaborate with businesses to optimize their ability to sell their goods online, domestically, and internationally, and enabling customers and partners to optimize their e-commerce presence and revenue, and other related businesses and (ii) Healthcare Operations, which provides TPA, data management, COVID-19 related diagnostics and vaccinations, prescription pharmaceuticals, compounded medications, telepharmacy services, anti-retroviral medications, medication therapy management, the supply of prescription medications to long-term care facilities, medication adherence packaging, contracted pharmacy services for 340B covered entities under the 340B Drug Discount Pricing Program, and health practice risk management.
The Company evaluates the performance of each of the segments based on profit or loss after general and administrative expenses. While the Company believes there are synergies between the two business segments, the segments are managed separately because each requires different business strategies.
The following tables present a summary of the reportable segments (in thousands):
| For the Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2023 | e-Commerce Operations | Healthcare Operations | Eliminations | Total | ||||||||||||
| Pharmacy prescription and other revenue, net of PBM fees | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| e-Commerce revenue | ||||||||||||||||
| Pharmacy 340B contract revenue | ||||||||||||||||
| Revenues, net | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||
| Cost of revenue | ||||||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | ||||||||||||||||
| Salaries, wages and payroll taxes | ||||||||||||||||
| Goodwill impairment | ||||||||||||||||
| Professional fees | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | ||||||||||||||||
| Total expenses | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
| Loss before other (income) expense | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | ||||||
| For the Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2022 | e-Commerce Operations | Healthcare Operations | Eliminations | Total | ||||||||||||
| Pharmacy prescription and other revenue, net of PBM fees | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| e-Commerce revenue | ||||||||||||||||
| Pharmacy 340B contract revenue | ||||||||||||||||
| Revenues, net | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||
| Cost of revenue | ||||||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | ||||||||||||||||
| Salaries, wages and payroll taxes | ||||||||||||||||
| Professional fees | ||||||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | ||||||||||||||||
| Total expenses | ||||||||||||||||
| Loss before other (income) expense | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | ||||||||
| e-Commerce Operations | Healthcare Operations | Eliminations | Total | |||||||||||||
| Total assets as of December 31, 2023 | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ||||||||||
| Total assets as of December 31, 2022 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2023 were approximately $
Note 24. Commitments and Contingencies
Litigation
On June 22, 2021, Thomas Seifert’s employment as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer was terminated for cause. Mr. Seifert asserts that the termination was not for cause and that he is owed compensation payable under his June 2, 2021 employment agreement. The Company’s position is that Mr. Seifert is not owed any additional compensation relating to his prior service with the Company or arising under any employment agreement. The Company and Mr. Seifert are currently engaged in litigation over the matter of his employment and termination. The Company believes it has adequate defenses to Mr. Seifert’s claims and has asserted affirmative claims for relief against Mr. Seifert including, but not limited to, breach of the employment agreement, breach of his fiduciary duties, fraud in the inducement in connection with the employment agreement, fraudulent misrepresentation, and constructive fraud. A detailed recitation of the Company’s factual allegations supporting these claims can be found in the Company’s Second Amended Complaint, filed June 21, 2022. The Company does not expect to seek substantial monetary relief in the litigation. This dispute is pending before the District Court for the Southern District of Florida under Case No. 1:21-cv-22436-DPG.
On July 5, 2022, Mr. Seifert moved to dismiss NextPlat’s Second Amended Complaint, and filed a Counterclaim against the Company and its Chief Executive Officer, Charles M. Fernandez. In his Counterclaim, Mr. Seifert seeks legal remedies in connection with the Company’s June 22, 2021, termination of his employment. Mr. Seifert also claims Retaliatory Discharge under Florida’s Private Whistleblower Act, Defamation, and Negligent Misrepresentation.
A jury trial is set to occur during the trial court's two-week trial calendar, starting August 21, 2024.
From time to time, the Company may become involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of our operations in the normal course of business. The Company is not currently involved in any pending legal proceeding or litigation, and, to the best of our knowledge, no governmental authority is contemplating any proceeding to which the Company is a party or to which any of the Company’s properties is subject, which would reasonably be likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and operating results.
Note 25. Related Party Transactions
As of December 31, 2023, the accounts payable due to related party includes amounts due to David Phipps. Total related party payments due as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 are $
The Company uses an American Express account for Orbital Satcom Corp and an American Express account for GTC, both in the name of David Phipps who personally guarantees the balance owed.
For the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company employed two individuals related to Mr. Phipps with gross wages totaling approximately $
On July 12, 2022, the Company hired Lauren Sturges Fernandez, the spouse of Mr. Fernandez, as Manager of Digital Assets. Mrs. Fernandez is an at-will employee with an annual salary of $
January Offering. The Company received gross proceeds from the sale of the Common Stock in the January Offering of approximately $
| Investor | Position held at NextPlat | Shares of Common Stock Purchased | Aggregate Purchase Price | ||||||
| Charles M. Fernandez | Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer | $ | |||||||
| David Phipps | Director and President of Orbsat. Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations | $ | |||||||
| Douglas Ellenoff | Vice Chairman and Chief Business Development Strategist | $ | |||||||
| Shares are deemed to be indirectly beneficially owned through Sabrina Allan, Mr. Ellenoff’s wife. | |||||||||
| Mr. Ellenoff has the power to vote and dispose of the shares. | |||||||||
| Louis Cusimano | Director | $ | |||||||
| Paul R. Thomson | Senior Vice President – Mergers, Acquisitions and Special Projects | $ | |||||||
On January 20, 2022, the Company appointed Rodney Barreto, to its Board. Mr. Barreto was a participant of the January offering and purchased
Progressive Care Inc. Following the consummation of the Company’s investment in Progressive Care Inc. on September 2, 2022, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Charles M. Fernandez, and our board member, Rodney Barreto, were appointed to Progressive Care’s Board of Directors, with Mr. Fernandez appointed to serve as Chairman of Progressive Care’s Board of Directors and Mr. Barreto appointed to serve as a Vice Chairman of Progressive Care’s Board of Directors. On November 11, 2022, the Progressive Care board of directors elected Mr. Fernandez as the Chief Executive Officer of Progressive Care. In addition, on September 2, 2022, NextPlat, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto and certain other purchasers purchased from Iliad Research and Trading, L.P. (“Iliad”) a Secured Convertible Promissory Note, dated March 6, 2019, made by Progressive Care to Iliad (the “Note”). The accrued and unpaid principal and interest under the note at the time of the purchase was approximately $
On February 1, 2023, the Company entered into a Management Services Agreement with Progressive Care Inc. (“Progressive Care”) to provide certain management and administrative services to Progressive Care for a $
On May 5, 2023, the Company entered into an SPA with Progressive Care Inc., pursuant to which the Company agreed to purchase
On May 9, 2023, pursuant to the DCA, the Company received
On July 1, 2023, the Company, Charles M. Fernandez, and Rodney Barreto exercised common stock purchase warrants and were issued common stock shares by Progressive Care (the "RXMD Warrants"). The Company exercised common stock purchase warrants on a cashless basis and was issued
Also, on July 1, 2023, NextPlat and Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto, entered into a voting agreement whereby at any annual or special shareholders meeting of Progressive Care’s stockholders, and whenever the holders of Progressive Care’s common stock act by written consent, Messrs. Fernandez and Barreto agreed to vote all of the shares of Progressive Care common stock (including any new shares acquired after the date of the voting agreement or acquired through the conversion of securities convertible into Progressive Care common stock) that they own, directly or indirectly, in the same manner that NextPlat votes its shares of Progressive Care common stock. The voting agreement is irrevocable and perpetual in term.
Next Borough Capital Fund, LP. On July 7, 2023, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note agreement with Next Borough Capital Management, LLC (“the Borrower”), whereby the Company loaned $
December Offering. On December 14, 2022, the Company closed a private placement for the sale of
| Investor | Position held at NextPlat | Shares of Common Stock Purchased | Warrants to purchase Common Stock | Aggregate Purchase Price | |||||||||
| eAperion Partners LLC, principal Charles M. Fernandez | Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer | $ | |||||||||||
| David Phipps | Director and President of NextPlat. Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations | $ | |||||||||||
| RLB Market Investments LLC, principal, Rodney Barreto | Director | $ | |||||||||||
Note 26. Concentrations
e-Commerce operations concentrations:
Customers:
Amazon accounted for
Suppliers:
The following table sets forth information as to each supplier that accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s purchases for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands):
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||||||||||
| Garmin | $ | % | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| Globalstar Europe | $ | % | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| Network Innovations | $ | % | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| Iridium Satellite | $ | % | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| Satcom Global | $ | % | $ | % | ||||||||||||
Geographic:
The following table sets forth revenue as to each geographic location, for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022(in thousands):
| Year Ended | Year Ended | |||||||||||||||
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||||||||||
| Europe | $ | % | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| North America | % | % | ||||||||||||||
| South America | % | % | ||||||||||||||
| Asia and Pacific | % | % | ||||||||||||||
| Africa | % | % | ||||||||||||||
| $ | % | $ | % | |||||||||||||
Healthcare operations concentrations:
Suppliers:
Progressive Care had significant concentrations with
Customers:
Progressive Care s trade receivables are primarily from prescription medications billed to various insurance providers. Ultimately, the insured is responsible for payment should the insurance company not reimburse Progressive Care.
Progressive Care generated reimbursements from three significant PBMs for the six months ended December 31, 2023:
| 2023 | ||||
| A | % | |||
| B | % | |||
| C | % | |||
Note 27. Subsequent Events
On March 25, 2024, the Company entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement with James T. McKinley to purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Outfitter Satellite, Inc., a Tennessee corporation ("Outfitter"), for aggregate consideration of $