SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 13D
Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(Amendment No. )
Veritone, Inc.
(Name of Issuer)
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share
(Title of Class of Securities)
92347M 10 0
(CUSIP Number)
Dr. Edgar Radjabli
Apis Capital Management LLC
777 South Flagler Drive Suite 800
West Palm Beach, FL, 33401
(561) 837-7311
(Name, Address and Telephone Number of Person Authorized to Receive Notices and Communications)
December 4, 2018
(Date of Event Which Requires Filing of this Statement)
If the filing person has previously filed a statement on Schedule 13G to report the acquisition which is the subject of this Schedule 13D, and is filing this schedule because of Rule 13d-1(e), 13d-1(f) or 13d-1(g), check the following box. ☐
Note: Schedules filed in paper format shall include a signed original and five copies of the schedule, including all exhibits. See Rule 13d-7 for other parties to whom copies are to be sent.
The remainder of this cover page shall be filled out for a reporting persons initial filing on this form with respect to the subject class of securities, and for any subsequent amendment containing information which would alter disclosures provided in a prior cover page.
The information required on the remainder of this cover page shall not be deemed to be filed for the purpose of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Act) or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section of the Act but shall be subject to all other provisions of the Act (however, see the Notes).
CUSIP No. 92347M 10 0 |
13D | Page 2 of 11 |
1 | NAMES OF REPORTING PERSONS
ACM Market Neutral Volatility Strategy Fund LP | |||
2 | CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX IF A MEMBER OF A GROUP (See Instructions)
(a) ☒ (b) ☐ | |||
3 | SEC USE ONLY
| |||
4 | SOURCE OF FUNDS (See Instructions)
WC | |||
5 | CHECK BOX IF DISCLOSURE OF LEGAL PROCEEDINGS IS REQUIRED PURSUANT TO ITEMS 2(d) or 2(e)
☐ | |||
6 | CITIZENSHIP OR PLACE OF ORGANIZATION
Delaware |
NUMBER OF SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY EACH REPORTING PERSON WITH |
7 | SOLE VOTING POWER
0 | ||||
8 | SHARED VOTING POWER
937,196 * | |||||
9 | SOLE DISPOSITIVE POWER
0 | |||||
10 | SHARED DISPOSITIVE POWER
937,196 * |
11 | AGGREGATE AMOUNT BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY EACH REPORTING PERSON
937,196 * | |||
12 | CHECK BOX IF THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT IN ROW (11) EXCLUDES CERTAIN SHARES (See Instructions)
☐ | |||
13 | PERCENT OF CLASS REPRESENTED BY AMOUNT IN ROW (11)
4.85% * | |||
14 | TYPE OF REPORTING PERSON (See Instructions)
PN |
* | Represents (i) 339,096 shares of Common Stock (as defined below) directly owned by ACM (as defined below) and (ii) 633,900 shares of Common Stock underlying call options exercisable within sixty (60) days of the date hereof directly owned by ACM. Determination of the percentage beneficial ownership of the Reporting Person is based on 19,328,278 shares of Common Stock reported to be outstanding as of October 31, 2018 as disclosed in Veritone, Inc.s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2018 filed on November 13, 2018. |
CUSIP No. 92347M 10 0 |
13D | Page 3 of 11 |
1 | NAMES OF REPORTING PERSONS
Apis Ventures LLC | |||
2 | CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX IF A MEMBER OF A GROUP (See Instructions)
(a) ☒ (b) ☐ | |||
3 | SEC USE ONLY
| |||
4 | SOURCE OF FUNDS (See Instructions)
WC | |||
5 | CHECK BOX IF DISCLOSURE OF LEGAL PROCEEDINGS IS REQUIRED PURSUANT TO ITEMS 2(d) or 2(e)
☐ | |||
6 | CITIZENSHIP OR PLACE OF ORGANIZATION
Delaware |
NUMBER OF SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY EACH REPORTING PERSON WITH |
7 | SOLE VOTING POWER
0 | ||||
8 | SHARED VOTING POWER
0 | |||||
9 | SOLE DISPOSITIVE POWER
0 | |||||
10 | SHARED DISPOSITIVE POWER
0 |
11 | AGGREGATE AMOUNT BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY EACH REPORTING PERSON
0 | |||
12 | CHECK BOX IF THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT IN ROW (11) EXCLUDES CERTAIN SHARES (See Instructions)
☐ | |||
13 | PERCENT OF CLASS REPRESENTED BY AMOUNT IN ROW (11)
0.00% | |||
14 | TYPE OF REPORTING PERSON (See Instructions)
OO |
CUSIP No. 92347M 10 0 |
13D | Page 4 of 11 |
1 | NAMES OF REPORTING PERSONS
Apis Capital Management LLC | |||
2 | CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX IF A MEMBER OF A GROUP (See Instructions)
(a) ☒ (b) ☐ | |||
3 | SEC USE ONLY
| |||
4 | SOURCE OF FUNDS (See Instructions)
WC | |||
5 | CHECK BOX IF DISCLOSURE OF LEGAL PROCEEDINGS IS REQUIRED PURSUANT TO ITEMS 2(d) or 2(e)
☐ | |||
6 | CITIZENSHIP OR PLACE OF ORGANIZATION
Delaware |
NUMBER OF SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY EACH REPORTING PERSON WITH |
7 | SOLE VOTING POWER
0 | ||||
8 | SHARED VOTING POWER
972,996 * | |||||
9 | SOLE DISPOSITIVE POWER
0 | |||||
10 | SHARED DISPOSITIVE POWER
972,996 * |
11 | AGGREGATE AMOUNT BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY EACH REPORTING PERSON
972,996 * | |||
12 | CHECK BOX IF THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT IN ROW (11) EXCLUDES CERTAIN SHARES (See Instructions)
☐ | |||
13 | PERCENT OF CLASS REPRESENTED BY AMOUNT IN ROW (11)
5.03%% * | |||
14 | TYPE OF REPORTING PERSON (See Instructions)
OO |
* | Represents (i) 339,096 shares of Common Stock directly owned by ACM; (ii) 633,900 shares of Common Stock underlying call options exercisable within sixty (60) days of the date hereof directly owned by ACM; and (iii) 35,800 shares of Common Stock underlying call options exercisable within sixty (60) days of the date hereof directly owned by Apis Capital (as defined below). Determination of the percentage beneficial ownership of the Reporting Person is based on 19,328,278 shares of Common Stock reported to be outstanding as of October 31, 2018 as disclosed in Veritone, Inc.s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2018 filed on November 13, 2018. |
CUSIP No. 92347M 10 0 |
13D | Page 5 of 11 |
1 | NAMES OF REPORTING PERSONS
Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |||
2 | CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX IF A MEMBER OF A GROUP (See Instructions)
(a) ☒ (b) ☐ | |||
3 | SEC USE ONLY
| |||
4 | SOURCE OF FUNDS (See Instructions)
WC | |||
5 | CHECK BOX IF DISCLOSURE OF LEGAL PROCEEDINGS IS REQUIRED PURSUANT TO ITEMS 2(d) or 2(e)
☐ | |||
6 | CITIZENSHIP OR PLACE OF ORGANIZATION
Delaware |
NUMBER OF SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY EACH REPORTING PERSON WITH |
7 | SOLE VOTING POWER
0 | ||||
8 | SHARED VOTING POWER
972,996 * | |||||
9 | SOLE DISPOSITIVE POWER
0 | |||||
10 | SHARED DISPOSITIVE POWER
972,996 * |
11 | AGGREGATE AMOUNT BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY EACH REPORTING PERSON
972,996 * | |||
12 | CHECK BOX IF THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT IN ROW (11) EXCLUDES CERTAIN SHARES (See Instructions)
☐ | |||
13 | PERCENT OF CLASS REPRESENTED BY AMOUNT IN ROW (11)
5.03%% * | |||
14 | TYPE OF REPORTING PERSON (See Instructions)
IN |
* | Represents (i) 339,096 shares of Common Stock directly owned by ACM; (ii) 633,900 shares of Common Stock underlying call options exercisable within sixty (60) days of the date hereof directly owned by ACM; and (iii) 35,800 shares of Common Stock underlying call options exercisable within sixty (60) days of the date hereof directly owned by Apis Capital. Determination of the percentage beneficial ownership of the Reporting Person is based on 19,328,278 shares of Common Stock reported to be outstanding as of October 31, 2018 as disclosed in Veritone, Inc.s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2018 filed on November 13, 2018. |
SCHEDULE 13D
Item 1. | Security and Issuer. |
This statement on Schedule 13D (this Statement) relates to the common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the Common Stock), of Veritone, Inc., a Delaware corporation (Veritone). Veritones principal executive offices are located at 575 Anton Boulevard, Costa Mesa, California, 92626.
Item 2. | Identity and Background. |
(a) This Statement is filed jointly on behalf of the following persons (collectively, the Reporting Persons): ACM Market Neutral Volatility Strategy Fund LP, a Delaware limited partnership (ACM); Apis Ventures LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (Apis Ventures); Apis Capital Management LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (Apis Capital); and Dr. Edgar Radjabli. The Reporting Persons are filing this Statement jointly, and the agreement among the Reporting Persons to file jointly is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and incorporated herein by reference (the Joint Filing Agreement). Dr. Radjabli is the managing partner of Apis Capital, and Apis Capital is the general partner of ACM and the manager of Apis Ventures.
(b) The business address of the Reporting Persons is 777 South Flagler Drive, Suite 800, West Palm Beach, FL, 33401.
(c) The present principal occupation of Dr. Radjabli is serving as the managing partner of Apis Capital. The principal business of Apis Capital is serving as general partner of ACM and as the manager of Apis Ventures. The principal business of each of ACM and Apis Ventures is acquiring and holding securities for investment purposes.
(d) During the last five years, none of the Reporting Persons has been convicted in a criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and similar misdemeanors).
(e) During the last five years, none of the Reporting Persons has been a party to a civil proceeding of a judicial or administrative body of competent jurisdiction nor, as a result of such proceeding, was or is subject to a judgment, decree or final order enjoining future violations of, or prohibiting or mandating activities subject to, federal or state securities laws or finding any violation with respect to such laws.
(f) Dr. Radjabli is a citizen of the United States of America.
Item 3. | Source and Amount of Funds or Other Consideration. |
The shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by the Reporting Persons were purchased with working capital in open market purchases. ACM acquired an aggregate of 339,096 shares of Common Stock for total consideration of approximately $1,900,474 (excluding fees and commissions). ACM acquired call options referencing an aggregate of 598,100 shares of Common Stock for total consideration of approximately $1,295,502 (excluding fees and commissions). Apis Capital acquired call options referencing an aggregate of 598,100 shares of Common Stock for total consideration of approximately $130,530 (excluding fees and commissions). The aggregate number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by the Reporting Persons represents approximately 5.03%% of Veritones outstanding shares of Common Stock, based on 19,328,278 shares of Common Stock reported to be outstanding as of October 31, 2018 as disclosed in Veritones Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2018 filed on November 13, 2018.
Item 4. | Purpose of Transaction. |
The Reporting Persons initially acquired the shares of Common Stock reported in this Statement based on their belief that such shares, when acquired, represented an attractive investment opportunity. Further, on December 4, 2018, Apis Capital delivered a letter to the Board of Directors of Veritone (the Board) and Mr. Chad Steelberg, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, setting forth a preliminary, non-binding proposal pursuant to which Apis Ventures would acquire all outstanding shares of Common Stock. Veritone has not substantively responded to Apis Capitals preliminary, non-binding proposal.
On December 10, 2018, Apis Capital, on behalf of Apis Ventures, delivered a second letter to the Board and Mr. Steelberg enhancing the proposed price to $10.26 per share. A copy of the December 10 letter is included as Exhibit 99.2 to this Statement and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As noted in the letter, the enhanced proposed price represents a premium of more than 82% to the closing price per share of the Common Stock on December 7, 2018, the last trading day before the date of the letter.
On December 10, 2018, Apis Capital issued a press release announcing that Apis Ventures has submitted an all-cash offer to the Board to acquire all outstanding shares of Common Stock for $10.26 per share. The press release includes a copy of the December 10 letter from Apis Capital to the Board. A copy of the press release is included as Exhibit 99.3 to this Statement.
Apis Capital continues to seek a negotiated transaction with Veritone that Apis Capital believes would provide superior value to Veritones stockholders, and is prepared to begin such negotiations. However, Apis Capital reserves the right to commence a tender offer to purchase all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Veritone at any time.
The Reporting Persons and their affiliates may, from time to time and at any time: (i) acquire additional shares of Common Stock and/or other equity, debt, notes, instruments or other securities (collectively, Securities) of Veritone (or its affiliates) in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to the Offer or otherwise; (ii) dispose of any or all of their Securities in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise; (iii) engage in any hedging or similar transactions with respect to the Securities; or (iv) take any other action described in Items 4(a) (j) of Schedule 13D. The Reporting Persons may formulate a plan with respect to such matters and, from time to time, may hold discussions with, or make formal proposals to, the Board or management of Veritone or other third parties regarding such matters.
Item 5. | Interest in Securities of the Issuer. |
(a), (b) By virtue of their relationships, the Reporting Persons may be deemed to constitute a group within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. As such, the Reporting Persons may be deemed to beneficially own in the aggregate 972,996 shares of Common Stock, representing approximately 5.03%% of Veritones outstanding shares of Common Stock. The percentages of beneficial ownership in this Statement are based on 19,328,278 shares of Common Stock reported to be outstanding as of October 31, 2018 as disclosed in Veritones Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2018 filed on November 13, 2018.
ACM beneficially owns and has shared voting and dispositive power over 937,196 shares of Common Stock comprised of (i) 339,096 shares of Common Stock directly owned by ACM and (ii) 633,900 shares of Common Stock underlying call options exercisable within sixty (60) days of the date hereof directly owned by ACM. The shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by ACM represent approximately 4.85% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock. Apis Capital beneficially owns and has shared voting and dispositive power over 972,996 shares of Common Stock comprised of (i) 339,096 shares of Common Stock directly owned by ACM, which Apis Capital, as the general partner of ACM, may be deemed to beneficially own, (ii) 633,900 shares of Common Stock underlying call options exercisable within sixty (60) days of the date hereof directly owned by ACM, which Apis Capital, as the general partner of ACM, may be deemed to beneficially own, and (iii) 35,800 shares of Common Stock underlying call options exercisable within sixty (60) days of the date hereof directly owned by Apis Capital. The shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by Apis Capital represent approximately 5.03%% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock. Dr. Radjabli, as the managing partner of Apis Capital, may be deemed to have shared voting and dispositive power over the shares of Common Stock that Apis Capital beneficially owns or may be deemed to beneficially own. Apis Ventures does not beneficially own or have voting or dispositive power over any shares of Common Stock.
(c) Except as set forth on Schedule 1 attached hereto, the Reporting Persons have not entered into any transactions with respect to the Common Stock during the past sixty (60) days.
(d) To the knowledge of the Reporting Persons, no other person is known to have the right to receive or the power to direct the receipt of dividends from, or the proceeds from the sale of, the securities of Veritone reported herein.
(e) Not applicable.
Item 6. | Contracts, Arrangements, Understandings or Relationships with Respect to Securities of Issuer. |
Apis Capital is the general partner of ACM pursuant to a limited partnership agreement which authorizes Apis Capital, among other things, to invest the funds of ACM in the shares of Common Stock and other securities and to vote, exercise or convert and dispose of such securities. Apis Capital is manager of Apis Ventures which authorizes Apis Capital, among other things, to invest the funds of Apis Ventures in securities and to vote, exercise or convert and dispose of such securities. Pursuant to such agreements, Apis Capital is entitled to receive fees based on assets under management and allocations based on realized and unrealized gains on such assets. Dr. Radjabli is the managing partner of Apis Capital and may be deemed to own beneficially securities over which Apis Capital exercises voting and dispositive power.
ACM currently holds American-style call options referencing an aggregate of:
| 256,000 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $2.50 per share expiring on December 21, 2018, |
| 136,800 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $5.00 per share expiring on December 21, 2018, |
| 119,600 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $7.50 per share expiring on December 21, 2018, |
| 11,100 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $10.00 per share expiring on December 21, 2018, |
| 37,900 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $2.50 per share expiring on January 18, 2019, |
| 4,300 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $2.50 per share expiring on February 15, 2019, and |
| 32,400 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $5.00 per share expiring on February 15, 2019. |
ACM currently holds American-style put options referencing an aggregate of 18,600 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $2.50 per share expiring on December 21, 2018. ACM sold American-style put options referencing an aggregate of 1,400 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $2.50 per share expiring on December 21, 2018.
Apis Capital currently holds American-style call options referencing an aggregate of:
| 35,000 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $2.50 per share expiring on December 21, 2018, |
| 600 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $5.00 per share expiring on December 21, 2018, and |
| 200 shares of Common Stock with a strike price of $7.50 per share expiring on December 21, 2018. |
Other than the foregoing and the Joint Filing Agreement, there are no contracts, arrangements, understandings or relationships (legal or otherwise) among the persons named in Item 2, or between such persons and any person, with respect to the securities of Veritone, including, but not limited to, transfer or voting of any of the securities, finders fees, joint ventures, loan or option arrangements, puts or calls, guarantees of profits, division of profits or loss, or the giving or withholding of proxies, including any securities pledged or otherwise subject to a contingency the occurrence of which would give another person voting power or investment power over such securities other than standard default and similar provisions contained in loan agreements.
Item 7. | Material to Be Filed as Exhibits. |
SIGNATURE
After reasonable inquiry and to the best of my knowledge and belief, I certify that the information set forth in this statement is true, complete and correct.
Dated: December 10, 2018
ACM MARKET NEUTRAL VOLATILITY STRATEGY FUND LP | ||
By: Apis Capital Management LLC, its general partner | ||
By: | /s/ Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Name: | Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Title: | Managing Partner | |
APIS VENTURES LLC | ||
By: Apis Capital Management LLC, its manager | ||
By: | /s/ Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Name: | Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Title: | Managing Partner | |
APIS CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LLC | ||
By: | /s/ Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Name: | Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Title: | Managing Partner | |
/s/ Dr. Edgar Radjabli | ||
DR. EDGAR RADJABLI |
SCHEDULE 1
TRANSACTIONS WITHIN THE LAST 60 DAYS
Certain of the Reporting Persons same-day, same-way trades with respect to the Common Stock that occurred within a one-dollar price range have been aggregated and reported using a weighted average price for such trades. For the trades that have been aggregated on this Schedule 1, the range of prices for such trades is set forth below. Upon the request of the staff of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the Reporting Persons will provide full information regarding the number of shares of Common Stock that were purchased or sold at each separate price.
ACM Market Neutral Volatility Strategy Fund LP
Date |
Nature of Transaction |
Amount of Securities Purchased / (Sold) |
Price ($) |
Price Range Low ($) |
Price Range High ($) | |||||
12/4/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 10,000 | 1.55 | 1.55 | 1.55 | |||||
12/4/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 10,000 | 3.57 | 3.50 | 3.60 | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($10.00 Strike Price) | 10,000 | 0.25 | | | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 21,000 | 0.54 | 0.45 | 0.75 | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 14,500 | 1.37 | 1.35 | 1.40 | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 27,500 | 3.62 | 3.30 | 3.70 | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of January 2019 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 7,100 | 3.48 | 3.40 | 3.70 | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Put Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 20,000 | 0.26 | 0.25 | 0.30 | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Sale of December 2018 American-style Put Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | (1,400) | 0.30 | 0.30 | 0.30 | |||||
11/30/2018 |
Purchase of Common Stock | 91,100 | 5.88 | 5.78 | 5.95 | |||||
11/30/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 20,000 | 0.55 | 0.55 | 0.55 | |||||
11/30/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 300 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | |||||
11/30/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 30,400 | 3.63 | 3.50 | 3.70 | |||||
11/30/2018 |
Purchase of January 2019 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 4,800 | 3.60 | 3.60 | 3.60 | |||||
11/29/2018 |
Purchase of Common Stock | 30,209 | 5.80 | 5.72 | 5.91 | |||||
11/29/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 18,100 | 0.55 | 0.50 | 0.55 | |||||
11/29/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 600 | 1.45 | 1.45 | 1.45 | |||||
11/29/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 31,600 | 3.69 | 3.60 | 3.70 | |||||
11/29/2018 |
Purchase of January 2019 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 16,000 | 3.76 | 3.70 | 3.80 | |||||
11/28/2018 |
Purchase of Common Stock | 20,100 | 5.73 | 5.68 | 5.78 | |||||
11/28/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 19,800 | 0.53 | 0.50 | 0.55 | |||||
11/28/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 400 | 1.45 | 1.45 | 1.45 | |||||
11/28/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 38,600 | 3.45 | 3.40 | 3.50 | |||||
11/28/2018 |
Purchase of January 2019 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 10,000 | 3.50 | 3.50 | 3.50 |
Date |
Nature of Transaction |
Amount of Securities Purchased / (Sold) |
Price ($) |
Price Range Low ($) |
Price Range High ($) | |||||
11/28/2018 |
Purchase of February 2019 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 4,300 | 3.50 | 3.50 | 3.50 | |||||
11/27/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 200 | 0.50 | 0.50 | 0.50 | |||||
11/27/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 15,500 | 1.40 | 1.40 | 1.40 | |||||
11/27/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 20,000 | 3.45 | 3.40 | 3.50 | |||||
11/26/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 10,000 | 1.25 | 1.25 | 1.25 | |||||
11/26/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 10,000 | 3.20 | 3.20 | 3.20 | |||||
11/23/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 49,000 | 3.44 | 3.40 | 3.50 | |||||
11/21/2018 |
Purchase of Common Stock | 20,000 | 5.62 | 5.56 | 5.68 | |||||
11/20/2018 |
Purchase of Common Stock | 107,687 | 5.38 | 5.16 | 5.45 | |||||
11/20/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 30,300 | 1.15 | 0.95 | 1.20 | |||||
11/19/2018 |
Purchase of Common Stock | 30,000 | 5.35 | 5.29 | 5.39 | |||||
11/19/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($10.00 Strike Price) | 1,100 | 0.15 | | | |||||
11/19/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 5,800 | 0.32 | 0.30 | 0.40 | |||||
11/19/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 10,100 | 1.05 | 0.95 | 1.05 | |||||
11/19/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 40,300 | 2.99 | 2.95 | 3.00 | |||||
11/19/2018 |
Purchase of February 2019 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 12,400 | 1.30 | 1.29 | 1.30 | |||||
11/16/2018 |
Purchase of Common Stock | 30,000 | 5.48 | 5.30 | 5.76 | |||||
11/16/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 10,300 | 0.25 | 0.20 | 0.25 | |||||
11/16/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 34,800 | 0.90 | 0.80 | 0.95 | |||||
11/16/2018 |
Purchase of February 2019 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 20,000 | 1.32 | 1.27 | 1.35 | |||||
11/15/2018 |
Purchase of Common Stock | 10,000 | 5.80 | 5.80 | 5.80 | |||||
11/15/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 14,400 | 0.23 | 0.20 | 0.25 | |||||
11/15/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 10,300 | 1.10 | 1.10 | 1.10 | |||||
11/14/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 10,000 | 0.25 | 0.25 | 0.25 |
Apis Capital Management LLC
Date |
Nature of Transaction |
Amount of Securities Purchased / (Sold) |
Price ($) |
Price Range Low ($) |
Price Range High ($) | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($7.50 Strike Price) | 200 | 1.55 | 1.55 | 1.55 | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($5.00 Strike Price) | 600 | 1.50 | | | |||||
12/3/2018 |
Purchase of December 2018 American-style Call Options ($2.50 Strike Price) | 35,000 | 3.70 | 3.70 | 3.70 |
EXHIBIT 99.1
Joint Filing Agreement
In accordance with Rule 13d-1(k)(1) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the persons named below agree to the joint filing on behalf of each of them of a statement on Schedule 13D (including amendments thereto) with respect to the shares of common stock of Veritone, Inc. and further agree that this Joint Filing Agreement be included as an Exhibit to such joint filings. In evidence thereof, the undersigned, being duly authorized, have executed this Joint Filing Agreement this 10th day of December, 2018.
ACM MARKET NEUTRAL VOLATILITY STRATEGY FUND LP | ||
By: Apis Capital Management LLC, its general partner | ||
By: | /s/ Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Name: | Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Title: | Managing Partner | |
APIS VENTURES LLC | ||
By: Apis Capital Management LLC, its manager | ||
By: | /s/ Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Name: | Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Title: | Managing Partner | |
APIS CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LLC | ||
By: | /s/ Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Name: | Dr. Edgar Radjabli | |
Title: | Managing Partner | |
/s/ Dr. Edgar Radjabli | ||
DR. EDGAR RADJABLI |
Exhibit 99.2
777 South Flagler Dr Suite 800 West Palm Beach, FL, 33401 Phone: (561) 837-7311 |
December 10, 2018
VIA EMAIL AND OVERNIGHT COURIER
Board of Directors
Veritone, Inc.
c/o Mr. Chad Steelberg
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
575 Anton Blvd.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Dear Chad,
Thank you for your request for additional information in response to the proposal from Apis Capital Management on behalf of Apis Ventures LLC (collectively, Apis) that was sent to you and the Board of Directors of Veritone, Inc. (Veritone) on December 4th, 2018. We believe that we have provided you with all the information requested in your response; however, we have unfortunately not heard back from you by the time we noted in our letter.
As indicated in the proposal, we believe that executing the proposed transaction in a timely manner would be beneficial to Veritone stockholders. We believe that the proposed transaction represents a compelling opportunity for Veritone stockholders to monetize their investment in Veritone at a substantial premium to Veritones current share price.
We have held discussions with our financing sources and would expect to have a fully executed, underwritten financing commitment prior to execution of a definitive merger agreement.
We have retained appropriate legal, financial and other advisors to assist us with this transaction. We stand ready to engage in due diligence immediately and anticipate that our confirmatory due diligence could be completed within two weeks following our receipt of the requested materials.
In addition, we have held preliminary discussions with certain of Veritones significant stockholders and have reason to believe such stockholders would be supportive of a transaction of the nature described in this letter.
In light of the important stockholder interests at stake and given your delay to date to substantively engage in meaningful discussions regarding a negotiated transaction, we believe that it is imperative to inform Veritone stockholders of our proposal. In addition, in order to deliver maximum stockholder value, we have enhanced our proposed price to $10.26 per share, representing an 82% premium over Veritones last closing price of $5.63 per share as of December 7, 2018. We believe that this all-cash offer is compelling for Veritone and its stockholders and, accordingly, we are making this letter public simultaneously with its delivery to you.
Our strong preference is to engage with Veritones Board of Directors to quickly reach a negotiated agreement and deliver on the compelling value that our offer represents. However, we reserve the right to commence a tender offer to purchase all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Veritone at any time. We believe that Veritones stockholders would not be well served by any further delay in negotiating and completing the proposed transaction. Any further delay works against the interest of Veritones stockholders given Veritones recent operating performance and financial condition and its prospects as a standalone company. We place significant value on the ability to close this transaction quickly, and there can be no assurance that in the future Apis Capital Management or any other buyer would pay the same high premium that we are offering today.
Should Veritones Board of Directors determine to proceed with a negotiated transaction, we stand ready to meet with you to discuss all aspects of our proposal. If Veritone is interested in discussing a possible negotiated transaction, please contact us as soon as possible.
Regards,
Edgar Radjabli
Managing Partner
Apis Capital Management
777 South Flagler Dr, Suite 800
West Palm Beach, FL, 33401
Phone: (561) 837-7311
emr@apiscapitalfunds.com
Exhibit 99.3
Apis Capital Management Proposes to Acquire Veritone for $10.26 per Share in Cash
New York, NY, December 10, 2018 - Apis Capital Management announced today that its private equity fund, Apis Ventures, has submitted an all-cash offer to the Board of Directors of Veritone, Inc. (NASDAQ: VERI) to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Veritone for $10.26 per share. As a result of careful consideration of the opportunity, Apis has increased its initial offer and has communicated this offer in the Letter to the Board attached below. This offer represents a 93% premium over the closing price of Veritone Common Stock on December 4, 2018, the date of Apiss initial private written proposal to Veritone, and an 82% premium over the closing price on December 7, 2018, the last trading day prior to this announcement, with a total equity value of approximately $198 million.
We have determined it is necessary to take our offer directly to Veritone stockholders in order to deliver significant value to them as expeditiously as possible, said Managing Partner of Apis Capital Management, Dr. Edgar Radjabli. This compelling transaction would deliver immediate liquidity to Veritone stockholders, at a premium to Veritones prospects as a standalone company. Veritone shareholders have seen the management of the company unable to deliver value since its IPO, nor has management been able to provide a compelling vision for a turnaround in the companys business, and we believe our proposal represents the best possible outcome. Dr. Radjabli concluded, We are committed to completing this transaction and remain willing to work cooperatively with Veritone. Our vision for the company involves significant synergy with our growing portfolio of AI and machine learnings investments, opening up new opportunities for Veritones technology.
Apis Capital Management believes that there are no regulatory impediments to the proposed transaction and that it will receive all necessary approvals and be completed by March 2019.
Apis Capital Management has engaged in an initial productive discussion with Veritone to explore the merits and potential terms of a transaction, yet Veritone has stalled in moving forward with substantive discussions. Apis looks forward to continuing to work with Veritone to complete this transaction in an expeditious manner, for the benefit of the shareholders. The proposal is subject to confirmatory due diligence and negotiation of definitive documentation.
Shift4 Capital, a New York and Florida based investment bank, is acting as financial advisor to Apis, and Duane Morris LLP is acting as legal counsel.
Below is the text of the letter that was sent on December 10, 2018 to Veritones CEO, Chad Steelberg and its Board of Directors:
Board of Directors
Veritone, Inc.
c/o Mr. Chad Steelberg
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
575 Anton Blvd.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Dear Chad,
Thank you for your request for additional information in response to the proposal from Apis Capital Management on behalf of Apis Ventures LLC (collectively, Apis) that was sent to you and the Board of Directors of Veritone, Inc. (Veritone) on December 4th, 2018. We believe that we have provided you with all the information requested in your response; however, we have unfortunately not heard back from you by the time we noted in our letter.
As indicated in the proposal, we believe that executing the proposed transaction in a timely manner would be beneficial to Veritone stockholders. We believe that the proposed transaction represents a compelling opportunity for Veritone stockholders to monetize their investment in Veritone at a substantial premium to Veritones current share price.
We have held discussions with our financing sources and would expect to have a fully executed, underwritten financing commitment prior to execution of a definitive merger agreement.
We have retained appropriate legal, financial and other advisors to assist us with this transaction. We stand ready to engage in due diligence immediately and anticipate that our confirmatory due diligence could be completed within two weeks following our receipt of the requested materials.
In addition, we have held preliminary discussions with certain of Veritones significant stockholders and have reason to believe such stockholders would be supportive of a transaction of the nature described in this letter.
In light of the important stockholder interests at stake and given your delay to date to substantively engage in meaningful discussions regarding a negotiated transaction, we believe that it is imperative to inform Veritone stockholders of our proposal. In addition, in order to deliver maximum stockholder value, we have enhanced our proposed price to $10.26 per share, representing an 82% premium over Veritones last closing price of $5.63 per share as of December 7, 2018. We believe that this all-cash offer is compelling for Veritone and its stockholders and, accordingly, we are making this letter public simultaneously with its delivery to you.
Our strong preference is to engage with Veritones Board of Directors to quickly reach a negotiated agreement and deliver on the compelling value that our offer represents. However, we reserve the right to commence a tender offer to purchase all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Veritone at any time. We believe that Veritones stockholders would not be well served by any further delay in negotiating and completing the proposed transaction. Any further delay works against the interest of Veritones stockholders given Veritones recent operating performance and financial condition and its prospects as a standalone company. We place significant value on the ability to close this transaction quickly, and there can be no assurance that in the future Apis Capital Management or any other buyer would pay the same high premium that we are offering today.
Should Veritones Board of Directors determine to proceed with a negotiated transaction, we stand ready to meet with you to discuss all aspects of our proposal. If Veritone is interested in discussing a possible negotiated transaction, please contact us as soon as possible.
Regards,
Edgar Radjabli
Managing Partner
Apis Capital Management
777 South Flagler Dr, Suite 800
West Palm Beach, FL, 33401
Phone: (561) 837-7311
emr@apiscapitalfunds.com
Apis Ventures
Apis Ventures is a Private Equity fund headquartered in West Palm Beach, FL and is managed by Apis Capital Management, a specialist alternative asset manager. Apis focuses on investing in, and acquiring companies in the AI, ML and DL space which have strong intellectual property or proprietary technology but are undervalued as a result of slow development progress or management issues. The Apis Ventures investment thesis centers on the transformational impact of machine learning on the vast data sets created by the digital revolution, and the profound impact of successful application of the technology on industries from financial services to healthcare. Apis seeks out opportunities where the team knows it can add value through private ownership, cross-portfolio synergies, and management leadership.
Additional Information
This communication is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any shares of the capital stock of Veritone or any other securities. No tender offer for Veritones shares has been made at this time. In connection with the proposed transaction, Apis Ventures and/or one or more of its affiliates may file tender offer documents with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). VERITONES STOCKHOLDERS ARE ADVISED TO READ THESE AND ANY OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC (AS EACH MAY BE AMENDED OR SUPPLEMENTED FROM TIME TO TIME) CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND THE PARTIES THERETO. Investors and security holders may obtain a free copy of these documents (if and when available) and other documents filed with the SEC by Apis Ventures and/or its affiliates at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov or by directing such requests to Apis Ventures at 777 South Flagler Drive Suite 800, West Palm Beach, FL, 33401.
Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-looking Statements
This communication contains both historical and forward-looking statements, including concerning the intent, belief or current expectations with respect to the proposed acquisition of Veritone and all statements other than statements of historical fact. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from expectations and projections. Such risks or uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the possibility that Veritone may not be willing to enter into a definitive agreement with respect to the transaction with Apis Ventures or an affiliate thereof, the possibility that Apis Ventures or an affiliate thereof may choose not pursue a transaction with Veritone, the timing to consummate a potential transaction between Apis Ventures or an affiliate thereof and Veritone and the ability and timing to obtain any required approvals for the transaction. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this communication or as of the date they are made, and Apis does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments except to the extent required by law.