SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2023	Sep. 30, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Description of Business		DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS Acacia Research Corporation (the “Company,” “Acacia,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is an opportunistic capital platform that purchases businesses based on the differentials between public and private market valuations. We use a wide range of transactional and operational capabilities to realize the intrinsic value in the businesses that we acquire. Our ideal transactions include the acquisition of public or private companies, the acquisition of divisions of other companies, or structured transactions that can result in the recapitalization or restructuring of the ownership of a business to enhance value. Our focus is companies with market values in the sub-$2 billion range and particularly on businesses valued at $1 billion or less. We are, however, opportunistic, and may pursue acquisitions that are larger under the right circumstance. We operate our business based on three key principles of People, Process and Performance and have built a management team with demonstrated expertise in Research, Transactions and Execution, and Operations and Management of our targeted acquisitions. We utilized these skill sets and resources to acquire a portfolio of equity securities of public and private life science businesses, or the “Life Sciences Portfolio,” in June 2020. As of September 30, 2023, we have monetized a majority of the portfolio while retaining an interest in a number of operating businesses, including a controlling interest in one of the companies in the portfolio. Further, some of the businesses in which we continue to hold an interest generate income through the receipt of royalties. Refer to Note 3 for additional information. Relationship with Starboard Value, LP Our strategic relationship with Starboard Value, LP (“Starboard”), the Company's majority shareholder, provides us access to industry expertise, and operating partners and industry experts to evaluate potential acquisition opportunities and enhance the oversight and value creation of such businesses once acquired. Starboard has provided, and we expect will continue to provide, ready access to its extensive network of industry executives and, as part of our relationship, Starboard has assisted, and we expect will continue to assist, with sourcing and evaluating appropriate acquisition opportunities. Recapitalization On October 30, 2022, the Company entered into a Recapitalization Agreement (the “Recapitalization Agreement”) with Starboard and certain funds and accounts affiliated with, or managed by, Starboard (collectively, the “Investors”), pursuant to which, among other things, the Company and Starboard agreed to enter into a series of transactions (the “Recapitalization”) to restructure Starboard’s existing investments in the Company in order to simplify the Company’s capital structure. Under the Recapitalization Agreement, the Company and Starboard agreed to take certain actions in connection with the Recapitalization, including submitting a proposal for stockholder approval to remove the “4.89% blocker” provision contained in the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations”). The Company’s stockholders approved the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations (the “Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations”) at the Company’s annual meeting of stockholders held on May 16, 2023 which became effective on June 30, 2023. Subsequently, and in accordance with the terms contained in the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations and the Recapitalization Agreement, on July 13, 2023, Starboard converted an aggregate amount of 350,000 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company, par value $0.001 per share (the “Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock”) into 9,616,746 shares of common stock, which included 27,704 shares of common stock issued in respect of accrued and unpaid dividends (the “Preferred Stock Conversion”). Further to the terms of the Recapitalization Agreement and in accordance with the terms of the Company’s Series B Warrants (the “Series B Warrants”), on July 13, 2023, Starboard also exercised 31,506,849 of the Series B Warrants through a combination of a “Note Cancellation” and a “Limited Cash Exercise” (each as defined in the Series B Warrants), resulting in the receipt by Starboard of 31,506,849 shares of common stock (the “Series B Warrants Exercise” and, together with the Preferred Stock Conversion, the “Recapitalization Transactions”), the cancellation of $60.0 million aggregate principal amount of the Company’s senior secured notes held by Starboard (as described further in Note 8, the “Senior Secured Notes”) and the receipt by the Company of aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $55.0 million. As a result of the Recapitalization Transactions, Starboard beneficially owned 61,123,595 shares of common stock as of July 13, 2023, representing approximately 61.2% of the common stock based on 99,886,322 shares of common stock issued and outstanding as of such date. No shares of Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, no Series B Warrants, nor any Senior Secured Notes remain outstanding. Refer to Note 8 for a detailed description of the Recapitalization and the Recapitalization Transactions. Intellectual Property Operations – Patent Licensing, Enforcement and Technologies Business The Company through its Patent Licensing, Enforcement and Technologies Business invests in intellectual property and related absolute return assets and engages in the licensing and enforcement of patented technologies. Through our Patent Licensing, Enforcement and Technologies Business, operated under our wholly owned subsidiary Acacia Research Group, LLC, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively “ARG”), we are a principal in the licensing and enforcement of patent portfolios, with our operating subsidiaries obtaining the rights in the patent portfolio or purchasing the patent portfolio outright. While we, from time to time, partner with inventors and patent owners, from small entities to large corporations, we assume all responsibility for advancing operational expenses while pursuing a patent licensing and enforcement program. When applicable, we share net licensing revenue with our patent partners as that program matures, on a pre-arranged and negotiated basis. We may also provide upfront capital to patent owners as an advance against future licensing revenue. Currently, on a consolidated basis, our operating subsidiaries own or control the rights to multiple patent portfolios, which include U.S. patents and certain foreign counterparts, covering technologies used in a variety of industries. ARG generates revenues and related cash flows from the granting of IP rights for the use of patented technologies that its operating subsidiaries control or own. Our Patent Licensing, Enforcement and Technologies Business depends upon the identification and investment in new patents, inventions and companies that own IP through relationships with inventors, universities, research institutions, technology companies and others. If ARG’s operating subsidiaries are unable to maintain those relationships and identify and grow new relationships, then they may not be able to identify new technology-based opportunities for sustainable revenue and/or revenue growth. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and the year ended December 31, 2022, ARG did not obtain control of any new patent portfolios. Industrial Operations Acquisition On October 7, 2021, we consummated our first operating company acquisition of Printronix Holding Corporation and subsidiaries (“Printronix”). Printronix is a leading manufacturer and distributor of industrial impact printers, also known as line matrix printers, and related consumables and services. The Printronix business serves a diverse group of customers that operate across healthcare, food and beverage, manufacturing and logistics, and other sectors. This mature technology is known for its ability to operate in hazardous environments. Printronix has a manufacturing site located in Malaysia and third-party configuration sites located in the United States, Singapore and Holland, along with sales and support locations around the world to support its global network of users, channel partners and strategic alliances. This acquisition was made at what we believe to be an attractive purchase price, and we are now supporting existing management in its initiative to reduce costs and operate more efficiently and in its execution of strategic partnerships to generate growth. We acquired all of the outstanding stock of Printronix, for a cash purchase price of approximately $37.0 million, which included an initial $33.0 million cash payment and a $4.0 million working capital adjustment. The Company's consolidated financial statements include Printronix's consolidated operations.
Accounting Principles		Accounting Principles The consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes are prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation		Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Acacia and its wholly and majority-owned and controlled subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Noncontrolling interests in Acacia’s majority-owned and controlled operating subsidiaries (“noncontrolling interests”) are separately presented as a component of stockholders’ equity. Consolidated net income or (loss) is adjusted to include the net (income) or loss attributed to noncontrolling interests in the consolidated statements of operations. Refer to the Consolidated Statements of Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Equity for noncontrolling interests activity. In 2020, in connection with the transaction with Link Fund Solutions Limited, which is more fully described in Note 3, the Company acquired equity securities of Malin J1 Limited (“MalinJ1”). MalinJ1 is included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements because the Company, through its interest in the equity securities of MalinJ1, has the ability to control the operations and activities of MalinJ1. Viamet HoldCo LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Acacia, is the majority shareholder of MalinJ1. Basis of Presentation The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP for interim financial information, the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, certain information and note disclosures required by U.S. GAAP in annual financial statements have been omitted or condensed in accordance with quarterly reporting requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes hereto should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2022, as reported by Acacia in its Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 17, 2023, as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. The condensed consolidated interim financial statements of Acacia include all adjustments of a normal recurring nature which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair statement of Acacia's consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2023, and results of operations and its cash flows for the interim periods presented. The consolidated results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire fiscal year.
Impairment of Investments		Impairment of Investments Acacia reviews its investments quarterly for indicators of other-than-temporary impairment. This determination requires significant judgment. In making this judgment, Acacia considers available quantitative and qualitative evidence in evaluating potential impairment of its investments. If the cost of an investment exceeds its fair value, Acacia evaluates, among other factors, general market conditions and the duration and extent to which the fair value is less than cost. Acacia also considers specific adverse conditions related to the financial health of and business outlook for the investee, including industry and sector performance, changes in technology, and operational and financing cash flow factors. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and a new cost basis in the investment is established.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts		Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses Intellectual Property Operations ARG performs credit evaluations of its licensees with significant receivable balances, if any, and has not experienced any significant credit losses. Accounts receivable are recorded at the executed contract amount and generally do not bear interest. Collateral is not required. An allowance for credit losses may be established to reflect the Company’s best estimate of probable losses inherent in the accounts receivable balance, and is reflected as a contra-asset account on the balance sheets and a charge to general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations for the applicable period. The allowance is determined based on known troubled accounts, historical experience, and other currently available evidence. There was no allowance for credit losses established as of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022. Industrial Operations Printronix’s accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. Printronix performs initial and periodic credit evaluations on customers and adjusts credit limits based upon payment history and the customer’s current creditworthiness. The allowance for credit losses is determined by evaluating individual customer receivables, based on contractual terms, reviewing the financial condition of customers, and from the historical experience of write-offs. Receivable losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the account has become uncollectible. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, Printronix's combined allowance for credit losses and allowance for sales returns was $50,000 and $22,000, respectively.
Financing Receivable	Long-Term Notes Receivable On October 13, 2021, Adaptix Limited issued £2.95 million, approximately $4.0 million at the exchange rate on October 13, 2021, in limited unsecured notes due in 2026 to Radcliffe 2 Ltd., a subsidiary of Merton Healthcare Holdco II LLC. Such unsecured notes were subsequently transferred to Merton Acquisition HoldCo LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Merton”) in the first quarter of 2023. The interest rate on the notes is 8.0% per year. We recorded zero and $70,000 during the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, in interest income related to the notes and $146,000 and $221,000, during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, in interest income related to the notes. During September 2023, the Company assessed the collectability of the limited unsecured notes based on the Adaptix's capability of repaying the limited unsecured notes according to its terms. As such, of the $3.8 million limited unsecured notes and $515,000 in interest receivable, the Company settled $2.0 million and wrote off the remaining limited unsecured notes totaling $2.3 million. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the receivable including interest was $2.0 million and $3.9 million, respectively, and is included in other non-current assets in the consolidated balance sheets.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]		Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess of the acquisition price of a business over the fair value of identified net assets of that business. We evaluate goodwill for impairment annually in the fourth quarter and on an interim basis if the facts and circumstances lead us to believe that more-likely-than-not there has been an impairment. When evaluating goodwill for impairment, we estimate the fair value of the reporting unit. Several methods may be used to estimate a reporting unit’s fair value, including, but not limited to, discounted projected future net earnings or net cash flows and multiples of earnings. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit, including goodwill, exceeds the estimated fair value, then the excess is charged to earnings as an impairment loss. Refer to Note 6 for additional information. ARG's patents include the cost of patents or patent rights acquired from third-parties or obtained in connection with business combinations. ARG's patent costs are amortized utilizing the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives, ranging from five to ten years. Refer to Note 6 for additional information. Printronix's intangible assets consist of trade names and trademarks, patents and customer and distributor relationships. These definite-lived intangible assets, at the time of acquisition, are recorded at fair value and are stated net of accumulated amortization. Printronix currently amortizes the definite-lived intangible assets on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of seven years. Refer to Note 6 for additional information.
Leases		LeasesThe Company’s leases primarily consist of facility leases which are classified as operating leases. The Company assesses whether an arrangement contains a lease at inception. The Company recognizes a lease liability to make contractual payments under all leases with terms greater than twelve months and a corresponding right-of-use asset, representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. Lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets		Impairment of Long-lived Assets The Company reviews long-lived assets, patents and other intangible assets for potential impairment annually and when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. In the event the expected undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the asset is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recorded in an amount equal to the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. If an asset is determined to be impaired, the loss is measured based on quoted market prices in active markets, if available. If quoted market prices are not available, the estimate of fair value is based on various valuation techniques, including a discounted value of estimated future cash flows. In the event that management decides to no longer allocate resources to a patent portfolio, an impairment loss equal to the remaining carrying value of the asset is recorded. Fair value is generally estimated using the “Income Approach,” focusing on the estimated future net income-producing capability of the patent portfolios over their estimated remaining economic useful life. Estimates of future after-tax cash flows are converted to present value through “discounting,” including an estimated rate of return that accounts for both the time value of money and investment risk factors. Estimated cash inflows are typically based on estimates of reasonable royalty rates for the applicable technology, applied to estimated market data. Estimated cash outflows are based on existing contractual obligations, such as contingent legal fee and inventor royalty obligations, applied to estimated license fee revenues, in addition to other estimates of out-of-pocket expenses associated with a specific patent portfolio’s licensing and enforcement program. The analysis also contemplates consideration of current information about the patent portfolio including, status and stage of litigation, periodic results of the litigation process, strength of the patent portfolio, technology coverage and other pertinent information that could impact future net cash flows.
Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block]		Equity Securities. Equity securities includes investments in public company common stock and are recorded at fair value based on the quoted market price of each share on the valuation date. The fair value of these securities are within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Equity investments that do not have regular market pricing, but for which fair value can be determined based on other data values or market prices, are recorded at fair value within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy. The Company has elected to apply the fair value method to one equity securities investment that would otherwise be accounted for under the equity method of accounting. As of September 30, 2023, the aggregate carrying amount of this investment was $50.4 million, and is included in equity securities, in the consolidated balance sheet (refer to Note 3 for additional information). Series B Warrants. Series B Warrants are recorded at fair value, using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model (Level 3). On October 28, 2022, the cash exercise feature of the Unadjusted Series B Warrants expired, which resulted in a fair value of zero for such warrants (refer to Note 8 for additional information). On July 13, 2023, further to the terms of the Recapitalization Agreement and in accordance with the terms of the Series B Warrants, the remaining Series B Warrants were exercised, which also resulted in a fair value of zero as of September 30, 2023 (refer to Note 8 for additional information). The fair value of the remaining Series B Warrants as of December 31, 2022 was estimated based on the following significant assumptions: volatility of 53 percent, risk-free rate of 4.76 percent, term of 0.54 years and a dividend yield of 0 percent. Refer to the "Embedded derivative liabilities" discussion below for additional information on assumptions.Embedded derivative liabilities. Embedded derivatives that are required to be bifurcated from their host contract are evaluated and valued separately from the host instrument. During the quarter ended December 31, 2022 in connection with the Recapitalization Agreement, the Company changed its methodology from a binomial lattice framework to an as-converted value (Level 3), based on an expected Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock conversion date on or prior to July 14, 2023 (refer to Note 8 for additional information).
Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block]		Treasury StockRepurchases of the Company’s outstanding common stock are accounted for using the cost method. The applicable par value is deducted from the appropriate capital stock account on the formal or constructive retirement of treasury stock. Any excess of the cost of treasury stock over its par value is charged to additional paid-in capital and reflected as treasury stock in the consolidated balance sheets.
Engineering and Development		Engineering and Development Engineering and development costs are expensed as incurred and consist of labor, supplies, consulting and other costs related to developing and improving Printronix's products.
Stock-Based Compensation		Stock-Based CompensationThe compensation cost for all time-based stock-based awards is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as an expense on a straight-line basis over the employee’s requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the equity award) which is currently one to four years. Compensation cost for an award with a performance condition shall be based on the probable outcome of that performance condition. Compensation cost shall be accrued if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved and shall not be accrued if it is not probable that the performance condition will be achieved. The fair value of restricted stock awards (“RSAs”), restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance based stock awards (“PSUs”) are determined by the product of the number of shares or units granted and the grant date market price of the underlying common stock. The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Forfeitures are accounted for as they occur.
Foreign Currency Gains and Losses		Foreign Currency Gains and Losses In connection with our Printronix business, the U.S. dollar is the functional currency for all of the foreign subsidiaries. Transactions that are recorded in currencies other than the U.S. dollar may result in transaction gains or losses at the end of the reporting period and when trade receipts and payments occur. For these subsidiaries, the assets and liabilities have been re-measured at the end of the period for changes in exchange rates, except inventories and property, plant and equipment, which have been remeasured at historical average rates. The consolidated statements of operations have been reevaluated at average rates of exchange for the reporting period, except cost of sales and depreciation, which have been reevaluated at historical rates. Although Acacia historically has not had material foreign operations, Acacia is exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar, and the British Pound and Euro currency exchange rates, primarily related to foreign cash accounts, a note receivable and certain equity security investments. All foreign currency exchange activity is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements		Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, “Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” to replace the incurred loss methodology with an expected credit loss model that requires consideration of a broader range of information to estimate credit losses over the lifetime of the asset, including current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts in addition to historical loss information, to determine expected credit losses. Pooling of assets with similar risk characteristics and the use of a loss model are also required. Also, in April 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-04, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments,” to clarify the inclusion of recoveries of trade receivables previously written off when estimating an allowance for credit losses. The Company adopted the update on January 1, 2023. The adoption of the update did not have an impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures. In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-08, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers,” to require that an acquirer recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” At the acquisition date, an acquirer should account for the related revenue contracts in accordance with Topic 606 as if it had originated the contracts. The Company adopted the update on January 1, 2023. The adoption of the update did not have an impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures. Not Yet Adopted In August 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-06, “Debt—Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40): Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity,” to simplify the accounting for convertible instruments by eliminating large sections of the existing guidance in this area. It also eliminates several triggers for derivative accounting, including a requirement to settle certain contracts by delivering registered shares. This update reduces the number of accounting models for convertible instruments, revises the derivatives scope exception, and provides targeted improvements for earnings per share. Upon adoption, companies have the option to apply a modified or full retrospective transition approach. The amendments in this update will currently be effective for the Company on January 1, 2024, with early adoption permitted. Management is currently evaluating the impact that the amendments in this update may have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2023

DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

Acacia Research Corporation (the “Company,” “Acacia,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is an opportunistic capital platform that purchases businesses based on the differentials between public and private market valuations. We use a wide range of transactional and operational capabilities to realize the intrinsic value in the businesses that we acquire. Our ideal transactions include the acquisition of public or private companies, the acquisition of divisions of other companies, or structured transactions that can result in the recapitalization or restructuring of the ownership of a business to enhance value.

Our focus is companies with market values in the sub-$2 billion range and particularly on businesses valued at $1 billion or less. We are, however, opportunistic, and may pursue acquisitions that are larger under the right circumstance.

We operate our business based on three key principles of People, Process and Performance and have built a management team with demonstrated expertise in Research, Transactions and Execution, and Operations and Management of our targeted acquisitions.

We utilized these skill sets and resources to acquire a portfolio of equity securities of public and private life science businesses, or the “Life Sciences Portfolio,” in June 2020. As of September 30, 2023, we have monetized a majority of the portfolio while retaining an interest in a number of operating businesses, including a controlling interest in one of the companies in the portfolio. Further, some of the businesses in which we continue to hold an interest generate income through the receipt of royalties. Refer to Note 3 for additional information.

Relationship with Starboard Value, LP

Our strategic relationship with Starboard Value, LP (“Starboard”), the Company's majority shareholder, provides us access to industry expertise, and operating partners and industry experts to evaluate potential acquisition opportunities and enhance the oversight and value creation of such businesses once acquired. Starboard has provided, and we expect will continue to provide, ready access to its extensive network of industry executives and, as part of our relationship, Starboard has assisted, and we expect will continue to assist, with sourcing and evaluating appropriate acquisition opportunities.

Recapitalization

On October 30, 2022, the Company entered into a Recapitalization Agreement (the “Recapitalization Agreement”) with Starboard and certain funds and accounts affiliated with, or managed by, Starboard (collectively, the “Investors”), pursuant to which, among other things, the Company and Starboard agreed to enter into a series of transactions (the “Recapitalization”) to restructure Starboard’s existing investments in the Company in order to simplify the Company’s capital structure. Under the Recapitalization Agreement, the Company and Starboard agreed to take certain actions in connection with the Recapitalization, including submitting a proposal for stockholder approval to remove the “4.89% blocker” provision contained in the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations”). The Company’s stockholders approved the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations (the “Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations”) at the Company’s annual meeting of stockholders held on May 16, 2023 which became effective on June 30, 2023. Subsequently, and in accordance with the terms contained in the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations and the Recapitalization Agreement, on July 13, 2023, Starboard converted an aggregate amount of 350,000 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company, par value $0.001 per share (the “Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock”) into 9,616,746 shares of common stock, which included 27,704 shares of common stock issued in respect of accrued and unpaid dividends (the “Preferred Stock Conversion”). Further to the terms of the Recapitalization Agreement and in accordance with the terms of the Company’s Series B Warrants (the “Series B Warrants”), on July 13, 2023, Starboard also exercised 31,506,849 of the Series B Warrants through a combination of a “Note Cancellation” and a “Limited Cash Exercise” (each as defined in the Series B Warrants), resulting in the receipt by Starboard of 31,506,849 shares of common stock (the “Series B Warrants Exercise” and, together with the Preferred Stock Conversion, the “Recapitalization Transactions”), the cancellation of $60.0 million aggregate principal amount of the Company’s senior secured notes held by Starboard (as described further in Note 8, the “Senior Secured Notes”) and the receipt by the Company of aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $55.0 million. As a result of the Recapitalization Transactions, Starboard beneficially owned 61,123,595 shares of common stock as of July 13, 2023, representing

approximately 61.2% of the common stock based on 99,886,322 shares of common stock issued and outstanding as of such date. No shares of Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, no Series B Warrants, nor any Senior Secured Notes remain outstanding. Refer to Note 8 for a detailed description of the Recapitalization and the Recapitalization Transactions.

Intellectual Property Operations – Patent Licensing, Enforcement and Technologies Business

The Company through its Patent Licensing, Enforcement and Technologies Business invests in intellectual property and related absolute return assets and engages in the licensing and enforcement of patented technologies. Through our Patent Licensing, Enforcement and Technologies Business, operated under our wholly owned subsidiary Acacia Research Group, LLC, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively “ARG”), we are a principal in the licensing and enforcement of patent portfolios, with our operating subsidiaries obtaining the rights in the patent portfolio or purchasing the patent portfolio outright. While we, from time to time, partner with inventors and patent owners, from small entities to large corporations, we assume all responsibility for advancing operational expenses while pursuing a patent licensing and enforcement program. When applicable, we share net licensing revenue with our patent partners as that program matures, on a pre-arranged and negotiated basis. We may also provide upfront capital to patent owners as an advance against future licensing revenue.

Currently, on a consolidated basis, our operating subsidiaries own or control the rights to multiple patent portfolios, which include U.S. patents and certain foreign counterparts, covering technologies used in a variety of industries. ARG generates revenues and related cash flows from the granting of IP rights for the use of patented technologies that its operating subsidiaries control or own.

Our Patent Licensing, Enforcement and Technologies Business depends upon the identification and investment in new patents, inventions and companies that own IP through relationships with inventors, universities, research institutions, technology companies and others. If ARG’s operating subsidiaries are unable to maintain those relationships and identify and grow new relationships, then they may not be able to identify new technology-based opportunities for sustainable revenue and/or revenue growth.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and the year ended December 31, 2022, ARG did not obtain control of any new patent portfolios.

Industrial Operations Acquisition

On October 7, 2021, we consummated our first operating company acquisition of Printronix Holding Corporation and subsidiaries (“Printronix”). Printronix is a leading manufacturer and distributor of industrial impact printers, also known as line matrix printers, and related consumables and services. The Printronix business serves a diverse group of customers that operate across healthcare, food and beverage, manufacturing and logistics, and other sectors. This mature technology is known for its ability to operate in hazardous environments. Printronix has a manufacturing site located in Malaysia and third-party configuration sites located in the United States, Singapore and Holland, along with sales and support locations around the world to support its global network of users, channel partners and strategic alliances. This acquisition was made at what we believe to be an attractive purchase price, and we are now supporting existing management in its initiative to reduce costs and operate more efficiently and in its execution of strategic partnerships to generate growth.

We acquired all of the outstanding stock of Printronix, for a cash purchase price of approximately $37.0 million, which included an initial $33.0 million cash payment and a $4.0 million working capital adjustment. The Company's consolidated financial statements include Printronix's consolidated operations.

Accounting Principles

The consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes are prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).

Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Acacia and its wholly and majority-owned and controlled subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Noncontrolling interests in Acacia’s majority-owned and controlled operating subsidiaries (“noncontrolling interests”) are separately presented as a component of stockholders’ equity. Consolidated net income or (loss) is adjusted to include the net (income) or loss attributed to noncontrolling interests in the consolidated statements of operations. Refer to the Consolidated Statements of Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Equity for noncontrolling interests activity.

In 2020, in connection with the transaction with Link Fund Solutions Limited, which is more fully described in Note 3, the Company acquired equity securities of Malin J1 Limited (“MalinJ1”). MalinJ1 is included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements because the Company, through its interest in the equity securities of MalinJ1, has the ability to control the operations and activities of MalinJ1. Viamet HoldCo LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Acacia, is the majority shareholder of MalinJ1.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP for interim financial information, the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, certain information and note disclosures required by U.S. GAAP in annual financial statements have been omitted or condensed in accordance with quarterly reporting requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes hereto should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2022, as reported by Acacia in its Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 17, 2023, as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. The condensed consolidated interim financial statements of Acacia include all adjustments of a normal recurring nature which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair statement of Acacia's consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2023, and results of operations and its cash flows for the interim periods presented. The consolidated results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire fiscal year.

Impairment of Investments

Acacia reviews its investments quarterly for indicators of other-than-temporary impairment. This determination requires significant judgment. In making this judgment, Acacia considers available quantitative and qualitative evidence in evaluating potential impairment of its investments. If the cost of an investment exceeds its fair value, Acacia evaluates, among other factors, general market conditions and the duration and extent to which the fair value is less than cost. Acacia also considers specific adverse conditions related to the financial health of and business outlook for the investee, including industry and sector performance, changes in technology, and operational and financing cash flow factors. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and a new cost basis in the investment is established.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses

Intellectual Property Operations

ARG performs credit evaluations of its licensees with significant receivable balances, if any, and has not experienced any significant credit losses. Accounts receivable are recorded at the executed contract amount and generally do not bear interest. Collateral is not required. An allowance for credit losses may be established to reflect the Company’s best estimate of probable losses inherent in the accounts receivable balance, and is reflected as a contra-asset account on the balance sheets and a charge to general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations for the applicable period. The allowance is determined based on known troubled accounts, historical experience, and other currently available evidence. There was no allowance for credit losses established as of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

Industrial Operations

Printronix’s accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. Printronix performs initial and periodic credit evaluations on customers and adjusts credit limits based upon payment history and the customer’s current creditworthiness. The allowance for credit losses is determined by evaluating individual customer receivables, based on contractual terms, reviewing the financial condition of customers, and from the historical experience of write-offs. Receivable losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the account has become uncollectible. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, Printronix's combined allowance for credit losses and allowance for sales returns was $50,000 and $22,000, respectively.

Financing Receivable

Long-Term Notes Receivable

On October 13, 2021, Adaptix Limited issued £2.95 million, approximately $4.0 million at the exchange rate on October 13, 2021, in limited unsecured notes due in 2026 to Radcliffe 2 Ltd., a subsidiary of Merton Healthcare Holdco II LLC. Such unsecured notes were subsequently transferred to Merton Acquisition HoldCo LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Merton”) in the first quarter of 2023. The interest rate on the notes is 8.0% per year. We recorded zero and $70,000 during the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, in interest income related to the notes and $146,000 and $221,000, during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, in interest income related to the notes. During September 2023, the Company assessed the collectability of the limited unsecured notes based on the Adaptix's capability of repaying the limited unsecured notes according to its terms. As such, of the $3.8 million limited unsecured notes and $515,000 in interest receivable, the Company settled $2.0 million and wrote off the remaining limited unsecured notes totaling $2.3 million. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the receivable including interest was $2.0 million and $3.9 million, respectively, and is included in other non-current assets in the consolidated balance sheets.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the excess of the acquisition price of a business over the fair value of identified net assets of that business. We evaluate goodwill for impairment annually in the fourth quarter and on an interim basis if the facts and

circumstances lead us to believe that more-likely-than-not there has been an impairment. When evaluating goodwill for impairment, we estimate the fair value of the reporting unit. Several methods may be used to estimate a reporting unit’s fair value, including, but not limited to, discounted projected future net earnings or net cash flows and multiples of earnings. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit, including goodwill, exceeds the estimated fair value, then the excess is charged to earnings as an impairment loss. Refer to Note 6 for additional information.

ARG's patents include the cost of patents or patent rights acquired from third-parties or obtained in connection with business combinations. ARG's patent costs are amortized utilizing the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives, ranging from five to ten years. Refer to Note 6 for additional information.

Printronix's intangible assets consist of trade names and trademarks, patents and customer and distributor relationships. These definite-lived intangible assets, at the time of acquisition, are recorded at fair value and are stated net of accumulated amortization. Printronix currently amortizes the definite-lived intangible assets on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of seven years. Refer to Note 6 for additional information.

Leases

LeasesThe Company’s leases primarily consist of facility leases which are classified as operating leases. The Company assesses whether an arrangement contains a lease at inception. The Company recognizes a lease liability to make contractual payments under all leases with terms greater than twelve months and a corresponding right-of-use asset, representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. Lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Impairment of Long-lived Assets

The Company reviews long-lived assets, patents and other intangible assets for potential impairment annually and when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. In the event the expected undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the asset is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recorded in an amount equal to the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. If an asset is determined to be impaired, the loss is measured based on quoted market prices in active markets, if available. If quoted market prices are not available, the estimate of fair value is based on various valuation techniques, including a discounted value of estimated future cash flows.

In the event that management decides to no longer allocate resources to a patent portfolio, an impairment loss equal to the remaining carrying value of the asset is recorded. Fair value is generally estimated using the “Income Approach,” focusing on the estimated future net income-producing capability of the patent portfolios over their estimated remaining economic useful life. Estimates of future after-tax cash flows are converted to present value through “discounting,” including an estimated rate of return that accounts for both the time value of money and investment risk factors. Estimated cash inflows are typically based on estimates of reasonable royalty rates for the applicable technology, applied to estimated market data. Estimated cash outflows are based on existing contractual obligations, such as contingent legal fee and inventor royalty obligations, applied to estimated license fee revenues, in addition to other estimates of out-of-pocket expenses associated with a specific patent portfolio’s licensing and enforcement program. The analysis also contemplates consideration of current information about the patent portfolio including, status and stage of litigation, periodic results of the litigation process, strength of the patent portfolio, technology coverage and other pertinent information that could impact future net cash flows.

Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Equity Securities. Equity securities includes investments in public company common stock and are recorded at fair value based on the quoted market price of each share on the valuation date. The fair value of these securities are within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Equity investments that do not have regular market pricing, but for which fair value can be determined based on other data values or market prices, are recorded at fair value within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy. The Company has elected to apply the fair value method to one equity securities investment that would otherwise be accounted for under the equity method of accounting. As of September 30, 2023, the aggregate carrying amount of this investment was $50.4 million, and is included in equity securities, in the consolidated balance sheet (refer to Note 3 for additional information).

Series B Warrants. Series B Warrants are recorded at fair value, using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model (Level 3). On October 28, 2022, the cash exercise feature of the Unadjusted Series B Warrants expired, which resulted in a fair value of zero for such warrants (refer to Note 8 for additional information). On July 13, 2023, further to the terms of the Recapitalization Agreement and in accordance with the terms of the Series B Warrants, the remaining Series B Warrants were exercised, which also resulted in a fair value of zero as of September 30, 2023 (refer to Note 8 for additional information). The fair value of the remaining Series B Warrants as of December 31, 2022 was estimated based on the following significant assumptions: volatility of 53 percent, risk-free rate of 4.76 percent, term of 0.54 years and a dividend

yield of 0 percent. Refer to the "Embedded derivative liabilities" discussion below for additional information on assumptions.Embedded derivative liabilities. Embedded derivatives that are required to be bifurcated from their host contract are evaluated and valued separately from the host instrument. During the quarter ended December 31, 2022 in connection with the Recapitalization Agreement, the Company changed its methodology from a binomial lattice framework to an as-converted value (Level 3), based on an expected Series A Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock conversion date on or prior to July 14, 2023 (refer to Note 8 for additional information).

Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Treasury StockRepurchases of the Company’s outstanding common stock are accounted for using the cost method. The applicable par value is deducted from the appropriate capital stock account on the formal or constructive retirement of treasury stock. Any excess of the cost of treasury stock over its par value is charged to additional paid-in capital and reflected as treasury stock in the consolidated balance sheets.

Engineering and Development

Engineering and development costs are expensed as incurred and consist of labor, supplies, consulting and other costs related to developing and improving Printronix's products.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based CompensationThe compensation cost for all time-based stock-based awards is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as an expense on a straight-line basis over the employee’s requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the equity award) which is currently one to four years. Compensation cost for an award with a performance condition shall be based on the probable outcome of that performance condition. Compensation cost shall be accrued if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved and shall not be accrued if it is not probable that the performance condition will be achieved. The fair value of restricted stock awards (“RSAs”), restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance based stock awards (“PSUs”) are determined by the product of the number of shares or units granted and the grant date market price of the underlying common stock. The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Forfeitures are accounted for as they occur.

Foreign Currency Gains and Losses

In connection with our Printronix business, the U.S. dollar is the functional currency for all of the foreign subsidiaries. Transactions that are recorded in currencies other than the U.S. dollar may result in transaction gains or losses at the end of the reporting period and when trade receipts and payments occur. For these subsidiaries, the assets and liabilities have been re-measured at the end of the period for changes in exchange rates, except inventories and property, plant and equipment, which have been remeasured at historical average rates. The consolidated statements of operations have been reevaluated at average rates of exchange for the reporting period, except cost of sales and depreciation, which have been reevaluated at historical rates. Although Acacia historically has not had material foreign operations, Acacia is exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar, and the British Pound and Euro currency exchange rates, primarily related to foreign cash accounts, a note receivable and certain equity security investments. All foreign currency exchange activity is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Adopted

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, “Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” to replace the incurred loss methodology with an expected credit loss model that requires consideration of a broader range of information to estimate credit losses over the lifetime of the asset, including current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts in addition to historical loss information, to determine expected credit losses. Pooling of assets with similar risk characteristics and the use of a loss model are also required. Also, in April 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-04, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments,” to clarify the inclusion of recoveries of trade receivables previously written off when estimating an allowance for credit losses. The Company adopted the update on January 1, 2023. The adoption of the update did not have an impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.

In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-08, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers,” to require that an acquirer recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” At the acquisition date, an acquirer should account for the related revenue contracts in accordance with Topic 606 as if it had originated the contracts. The Company adopted the update on January 1, 2023. The adoption of the update did not have an impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.

Not Yet Adopted

In August 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-06, “Debt—Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40): Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity,” to simplify the accounting for convertible instruments by eliminating large sections of the existing guidance in this area. It also eliminates several triggers for derivative accounting, including a requirement to settle certain contracts by delivering registered shares. This update reduces the number of accounting models for convertible instruments, revises the derivatives scope exception, and provides targeted improvements for earnings per share. Upon adoption, companies have the option to apply a modified or full retrospective transition approach. The amendments in this update will currently be effective for the Company on January 1, 2024, with early adoption permitted. Management is currently evaluating the impact that the amendments in this update may have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.