UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2008
Or
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period _______________ to _______________ | ||||
Commission File Number: 1-11454 | ||||
vFinance, Inc. | ||||
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter) | ||||
DELAWARE | 58-1974423 | |||
(State or Other Jurisdiction of | (I.R.S. Employer | |||
Incorporation or Organization) | Identification No.) | |||
3010 NORTH MILITARY TRAIL, SUITE 300 | ||||
BOCA RATON, FLORIDA | 33431 | |||
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) | (Zip Code) | |||
(561) 981-1000 | ||||
(Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code) |
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, |
if changed since last report) |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [ X ] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of large accelerated filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer [ ] | Accelerated filer [ ] | |
Non-accelerated filer [ ] (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company [ X ] |
State the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common equity, as of May 14, 2008: 55,635,066 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share.
VFINANCE, INC. | ||
FORM 10-Q | ||
QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2008 | ||
INDEX | ||
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION | ||
Item 1 Financial Statements | ||
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition | ||
as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 | 4 | |
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the | ||
Three months Ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 | 5 | |
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholders Equity for the | ||
Three months ended March 31, 2008 | 6 | |
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the | ||
Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 | 7 | |
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements | 8 | |
Item 2 Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition | ||
and Results of Operations | 18 | |
Item 3 Quantitative & Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk | 23 | |
Item 4 Controls and Procedures | 23 | |
PART II OTHER INFORMATION | ||
Item 1 Legal Proceedings | 24 | |
Item 2 Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds | 25 | |
Item 6 Exhibits | 26 | |
Signatures | 27 |
2
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS |
The following information provides cautionary statements under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the Reform Act). We identify important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements we make in this report or in other documents that reference this report. All statements that express or involve discussions as to: expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified through the use of words or phrases such as we or our management believes, expects, anticipates or hopes and words or phrases such as will result, are expected to, will continue, is anticipated, estimated, projection and outlook, and words of similar import) are not statements of historical facts and may be forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are based largely on our expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, regulatory, growth strategies, available financing and other factors discussed elsewhere in this report and in the documents filed by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Many of these factors are beyond our control. Actual results could differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this report or in other documents that reference this report. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there can be no assurance that the results anticipated in the forward-looking information contained in this report or other documents that reference this report will, in fact, occur.
These forward-looking statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties, and, accordingly, actual results could differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. These uncertainties include, among others, the following: (i) the inability of our broker-dealer operations to operate profitably in the face of intense competition from larger full service and discount brokers; (ii) a general decrease in merger and acquisition activities and our potential inability to receive success fees as a result of transactions not being completed; (iii) increased competition from business development portals; (iv) technological changes; (v) our potential inability to implement our growth strategy through acquisitions or joint ventures; and (vi) our potential inability to secure additional debt or equity financing.
Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement or statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. New factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all of such factors, nor can our management assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.
3
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION |
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
VFINANCE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES | ||||||||||
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION | ||||||||||
(In thousands, except share and per share data) | ||||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||
Current assets: | ||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 4,686.7 | $ | 5,454.1 | ||||||
Due from clearing broker | 1,024.3 | 631.0 | ||||||||
Securities owned: | ||||||||||
Marketable, at fair value | 397.1 | 817.4 | ||||||||
Not readily marketable, at estimated fair value | 97.5 | 451.6 | ||||||||
Accounts receivable, net | 263.7 | 155.6 | ||||||||
Forgivable loans - employees, current portion | 16.9 | 26.7 | ||||||||
Notes receivable - employees | 2.1 | 8.4 | ||||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 140.2 | 156.4 | ||||||||
Total current assets | 6,628.5 | 7,701.2 | ||||||||
Property and equipment, net | 808.7 | 800.8 | ||||||||
Customer relationships, net | 3,080.6 | 3,287.6 | ||||||||
Other assets | 503.4 | 580.0 | ||||||||
Total assets | $ | 11,021.2 | $ | 12,369.6 | ||||||
Liabilities and shareholders' equity: | ||||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 842.9 | $ | 693.9 | ||||||
Accrued compensation | 2,642.5 | 3,305.6 | ||||||||
Other accrued liabilities | 1,339.1 | 1,548.1 | ||||||||
Securities sold, not yet purchased | 55.8 | 177.4 | ||||||||
Capital lease obligations, current portion | 240.2 | 247.0 | ||||||||
Other | 199.0 | 272.3 | ||||||||
Total current liabilities | 5,319.5 | 6,244.3 | ||||||||
Capital lease obligations, long term | 298.3 | 297.5 | ||||||||
Shareholders' Equity: | ||||||||||
Common stock $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized | ||||||||||
55,335,066 and 54,829,876 shares issued and outstanding | 553.4 | 548.3 | ||||||||
Additional paid-in capital | 31,859.1 | 31,668.3 | ||||||||
Accumulated deficit | (27,009.1 | ) | (26,388.8 | ) | ||||||
Total shareholders' equity | 5,403.4 | 5,827.8 | ||||||||
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity | $ | 11,021.2 | $ | 12,369.6 |
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
4
VFINANCE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES | ||||||||||
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS | ||||||||||
(In thousands, except per share data) | ||||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||||
2007 | ||||||||||
2008 | (Restated and Revised) | |||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||||
Commissions - agency | $ | 5,949.4 | $ | 5,629.2 | ||||||
Trading profits | 3,039.3 | 3,596.3 | ||||||||
Success fees | 1,033.7 | 1,619.2 | ||||||||
Other brokerage related income | 1,178.1 | 1,152.9 | ||||||||
Consulting fees | 140.8 | 18.5 | ||||||||
Other | 227.0 | 24.1 | ||||||||
Total revenues | 11,568.3 | 12,040.2 | ||||||||
Compensation, commissions and benefits | 9,890.9 | 9,662.6 | ||||||||
Clearing and transaction costs | 1,000.7 | 1,104.1 | ||||||||
General and administrative costs | 681.4 | 656.7 | ||||||||
Occupancy and equipment costs | 305.0 | 240.7 | ||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 324.9 | 318.4 | ||||||||
Total operating costs | 12,202.9 | 11,982.5 | ||||||||
Income (loss) from operations | (634.6 | ) | 57.7 | |||||||
Other income (expenses): | ||||||||||
Interest income | 19.3 | 14.6 | ||||||||
Interest expense | (21.0 | ) | (18.3 | ) | ||||||
Dividend income | 1.2 | 3.4 | ||||||||
Other income, net | 14.8 | 1.4 | ||||||||
14.3 | 1.1 | |||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | (620.3 | ) | 58.8 | |||||||
Income tax benefit (provision) | - | - | ||||||||
Net income (loss) | (620.3 | ) | 58.8 | |||||||
Net income (loss) per share: basic | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | 0.00 | |||||
Weighted average number of shares outstanding: basic | 55,007.5 | 54,729.9 | ||||||||
Net income (loss) per share: diluted | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | 0.00 | |||||
Weighted average number of shares outstanding: diluted | 55,007.5 | 56,275.1 |
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
5
VFINANCE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY (In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Shareholders' Equity |
||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stock Shares |
Common Stock Amount |
Additional Paid-In Capital |
||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated Deficit |
||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2007 | 54,829.9 | $ | 548.3 | $ | 31,668.3 | $ | (26,388.8 | ) | $ | 5,827.8 | ||||||||||
Net loss | - | - | - | (620.3 | ) | (620.3 | ) | |||||||||||||
Exercise of common stock warrants | 505.2 | 5.1 | 70.6 | - | 75.7 | |||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation expense | - | - | 120.2 | - | 120.2 | |||||||||||||||
Balance at March 31, 2008 | 55,335.1 | $ | 553.4 | $ | 31,859.1 | $ | (27,009.1 | ) | $ | 5,403.4 |
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
6
VFINANCE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES | ||||||||||
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||||
2007 | ||||||||||
(Restated and | ||||||||||
2008 | Revised) | |||||||||
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | (620.3 | ) | $ | 58.8 | |||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to | ||||||||||
net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | ||||||||||
Non-cash fees received | (100.3 | ) | (237.0 | ) | ||||||
Non-cash compensation paid | 58.6 | 147.6 | ||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 324.9 | 318.4 | ||||||||
Stock-based compensation | 120.2 | 113.1 | ||||||||
Provision for doubtful accounts | - | - | ||||||||
Amounts forgiven under forgivable loans | 9.8 | 18.0 | ||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||||
(Increase) decrease in: | ||||||||||
Accounts receivable | (108.1 | ) | 4.9 | |||||||
Forgivable loans | - | (23.4 | ) | |||||||
Due from clearing broker | (393.3 | ) | (307.3 | ) | ||||||
Notes receivable - employees | 6.3 | 27.2 | ||||||||
Investments in marketable securities | 420.3 | (681.8 | ) | |||||||
Investments in not readily marketable securities | 359.0 | (8.2 | ) | |||||||
Other current assets | 16.2 | 69.9 | ||||||||
Other assets and liabilities, net | 3.3 | (45.8 | ) | |||||||
Increase (decrease) in: | ||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | (686.3 | ) | 811.7 | |||||||
Securities sold, not yet purchased | (121.6 | ) | 862.8 | |||||||
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities | (711.3 | ) | 1,128.9 | |||||||
CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||
Purchase of property and equipment | (53.0 | ) | (23.0 | ) | ||||||
Cash used in investing activities | (53.0 | ) | (23.0 | ) | ||||||
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVTIES: | ||||||||||
Repayments of capital lease obligations | (78.8 | ) | (62.7 | ) | ||||||
Proceeds from exercises of warrants | 75.7 | - | ||||||||
Cash used in financing activities | (3.1 | ) | (62.7 | ) | ||||||
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | (767.4 | ) | 1,043.2 | |||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 5,454.1 | 4,205.2 | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 4,686.7 | $ | 5,248.4 |
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
7
VFINANCE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands, except per share data)
1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
vFinance, Inc. (the Company") is a financial services company that specializes in high growth opportunities. Its three principal lines of business are: (1) offering full service retail brokerage to approximately 12,000 high net worth and institutional clients, (2) providing investment banking, merger, acquisition and advisory services to micro, small and mid-cap high growth companies, and (3) trading securities, including making markets in over 3,500 micro and small cap stocks and providing liquidity in the United States Treasury marketplace. In addition to the Company's core business, it offers information services on its website. vFinance Investments, Inc. ("vFinance Investments") and EquityStation, Inc. ("EquityStation"), both subsidiaries of the Company, are broker-dealers registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), and members of Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") (formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers) and Securities Investor Protection Corporation ("SIPC"). vFinance Investments is also a member of the National Futures Association ("NFA").
The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts have been eliminated in consolidation.
The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The results of operations for the three month period ended March 31, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year ended December 31, 2008. The interim financial statements should be read in connection with the audited financial statements and footnotes contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.
Reclassifications
Certain items in the 2007 unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the presentation in the 2008 unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. Such reclassifications did not have a material impact on the presentation of the overall financial statements.
8
Restatement
As previously described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company restated its financial statements to change how marketable securities received as compensation for investment banking services were reflected in its financial statements. Additionally, as previously described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company revised its financial statements to remove the effects of a policy under which the Company reduced the market value of investments in restricted stock by 25% to reflect such restrictions.
The net effect of the restatements on the Companys statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2007 was as follows:
As Reported - Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 |
||||||||||
Net Effect of Restate- ments |
||||||||||
Restated | ||||||||||
Statement of Operations: | ||||||||||
Success fees | $ | 1,598.2 | 21.0 | $ | 1,619.2 | |||||
Total revenues | $ | 12,019.2 | 21.0 | $ | 12,040.2 | |||||
Income from operations | $ | 36.7 | 21.0 | $ | 57.7 | |||||
Income before income taxes | $ | 37.8 | 21.0 | $ | 58.8 | |||||
Net income | $ | 37.8 | 21.0 | $ | 58.8 | |||||
Net loss per share - basic | $ | 0.00 | $ | 0.00 | ||||||
Wt. avg. shares outstanding - basic | 54,729.9 | 54,729.9 | ||||||||
Net loss per share - diluted | $ | 0.00 | $ | 0.00 | ||||||
Wt. avg. shares outstanding - diluted | 56,275.1 | 56,275.1 |
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
9
New Accounting Pronouncements
In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements." SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value under generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. On February 12, 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) No. FAS 157-2, "Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157," which delayed the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for all nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on at least an annual basis, until January 1, 2009 for calendar year-end entities. Upon adoption, the provisions of SFAS No. 157 are to be applied prospectively with limited exceptions. This statement, as it relates to financial assets and liabilities became effective for the Company on January 1, 2008, and its adoption did not have a material effect on the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements.
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities - Including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115. SFAS No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses, arising subsequent to adoption, are reported in earnings. SFAS No. 159 became effective for the Company on January 1, 2008. The adoption of SFAS No. 159 did not have a material effect on the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements.
In May 2007, the FASB issued FSP FIN No. 46R-7, Application of FASB Interpretation No. 46(R) to Investment Companies." FSP FIN No. 46R-7 amends the scope of the exception to FIN No. 46R to state that investments accounted for at fair value in accordance with the specialized accounting guidance in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, are not subject to consolidation under FIN No. 46R. This interpretation is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2007. The adoption of FSP FIN No. 46R-7 did not have a material impact on the Companys consolidated financial statements.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), Business Combinations" ("SFAS No. 141R"). SFAS No. 141R is a revision to SFAS No. 141 and includes substantial changes to the acquisition method used to account for business combinations (formerly the "purchase accounting" method), including broadening the definition of a business, as well as revisions to accounting methods for contingent consideration and other contingencies related to the acquired business, accounting for transaction costs, and accounting for adjustments to provisional amounts recorded in connection with acquisitions. SFAS No.141R retains the fundamental requirement of SFAS No. 141 that the acquisition method of accounting be used for all business combinations and for an acquirer to be identified for each business combination. SFAS No. 141R is effective for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008, and will apply to all business combinations occurring after the effective date. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of SFAS No. 141R.
10
The FASB also issued SFAS No. 160, "Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements - an amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, Consolidated Financial Statements" in December 2007. This Statement amends ARB No. 51 to establish new standards that will govern the (1) accounting for and reporting of non-controlling interests in partially owned consolidated subsidiaries and (2) the loss of control of subsidiaries. Non-controlling interest will be reported as part of equity in the consolidated financial statements. Losses will be allocated to the non-controlling interest, and, if control is maintained, changes in ownership interests will be treated as equity transactions. Upon a loss of control, any gain or loss on the interest sold will be recognized in earnings. SFAS No. 160 is effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of SFAS No. 160.
In April 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS 142-3, Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets (FSP FAS 142-3). FSP FAS 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No. 142. The intent of this FSP is to improve the consistency between the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under Statement 142 and the period of expected cash flows used to measure the fair value of the asset under SFAS No. 141R and other generally accepted accounting principles. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of FSP FAS 142-3.
2. MERGER AGREEMENT
On November 7, 2007, the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement") with National Holdings Corporation ("National"). Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, upon the closing of the Merger (the "Effective Date"), each share of the Company's common stock outstanding immediately prior to the closing of the Merger (other than shares held by National or the Company or any of the Company's stockholders who properly exercise dissenters' rights under Delaware law) will automatically be converted into the right to receive 0.14 shares of National common stock, plus any cash in lieu of fractional shares of National common stock.
Each option to purchase shares of the Company's common stock outstanding upon the Effective Date will be converted into options to acquire the number of shares of National common stock determined by multiplying (i) the number of shares of the Company's common stock underlying each outstanding stock option immediately prior to the effective time of the Merger by (ii) 0.14, at a price per share of National common stock equal to (i) the exercise price per share of each stock option otherwise purchasable pursuant to the stock option divided by (ii) 0.14. Each warrant to purchase shares of the Company's common stock outstanding on the Effective Date will be exercisable to purchase the number of shares of National common stock determined by multiplying (i) the number of shares of the Company's common stock underlying each outstanding warrant by (ii) 0.14, at a price per share of National common stock equal to (i) the aggregate exercise price of such outstanding warrant to purchase the Company's common stock divided by (ii) the number of shares of National common stock for which such warrant is exercisable, as determined above.
11
Completion of the Merger is subject to various customary conditions, including, among others, (i) requisite approvals of the Company's stockholders, (ii) completion by National of a private placement of equity securities resulting in gross proceeds of at least $3 million, (iii) effectiveness of the registration statement for the National securities to be issued in the Merger, (iv) absence of any suit, proceeding or investigation challenging or seeking to restrain or prohibit the Merger, and (v) FINRA and any other applicable regulatory approvals. No assurance can be given that the Company will consummate a merger with National.
The Company and National announced on May 12, 2008, that the approvals by FINRA have been received, the Form S-4 Registration Statement filed by National was declared effective by the SEC on May 9, 2008 and the Companys stockholder meeting to approve the merger has been scheduled for June 13, 2008. Additionally, the $3.0 million private placement by National has been completed, as required by conditions to close the previously announced merger.
3. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
Securities owned and securities sold, not yet purchased are presented at fair value. Fair value is defined as the price at which an asset would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (the exit price). Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition are categorized based upon a three level classification, defined by SFAS No. 157, as follows:
Level 1 Fair value measurements are based upon unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. The Company carried investments in corporate equity securities and municipal bonds listed in active markets at Level 1 fair value at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007.
Level 2 Fair value measurements are based upon inputs (other than quoted prices included in Level 1), which are either directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability through correlation with market data at the measurement date and for the duration of the instruments anticipated life. The Company carried stock warrants for which there are market-based implied volatilities, unregistered common stock and thinly-traded common stock at Level 2 fair value at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007.
Level 3 Fair value measurements that have no directly observable and reflect managements best estimate of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The Company did not carry any financial assets or liabilities at Level 3 fair value at March 31, 2008 or December 31, 2007.
12
The following tables present financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, based upon the lowest level of significant input to the valuations at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 (in thousands):
Fair Values at March 31, 2008 | |||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | ||||||||||||||||
Corporate equities | $ | 106.7 | $ | 7.7 | $ | - | $ | 114.4 | |||||||||||
Municipal bonds | 283.1 | - | - | 283.1 | |||||||||||||||
Restricted corporate equities | - | 97.1 | - | 97.1 | |||||||||||||||
Stock purchase warrants | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Corporate equities - sold, not yet purchased | (52.8 | ) | (3.0 | ) | - | (55.8 | ) | ||||||||||||
$ | 337.0 | $ | 101.8 | $ | - | $ | 438.8 |
Fair Values at December 31, 2007 | ||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||
Corporate equities | $ | 211.4 | $ | 4.5 | $ | - | $ | 215.9 | ||||||||||
Municipal bonds | 605.0 | - | - | 605.0 | ||||||||||||||
Restricted corporate equities | - | 205.2 | - | 205.2 | ||||||||||||||
Stock purchase warrants | - | 242.9 | - | 242.9 | ||||||||||||||
Corporate equities - sold, not yet purchased | (177.4 | ) | - | - | (177.4 | ) | ||||||||||||
$ | 639.0 | $ | 452.6 | $ | - | $ | 1,091.6 |
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis consisted of Securities sold, not yet purchased which are categorized as Level 1, with the exception of two thinly traded securities, which are categorized as Level 2 at March 31, 2008. The fair value of Securities sold, not yet purchased as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 was approximately $55.8 thousand and $177.4 thousand, respectively.
13
4. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
At March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, property and equipment, net consisted of the following:
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||||
Furniture and fixtures | $ | 90.8 | $ | 90.8 | ||||||
Equipment | 826.9 | 791.4 | ||||||||
Capital leases - computer | ||||||||||
equipment | 1,266.5 | 1,193.7 | ||||||||
Leasehold improvements | 174.8 | 174.8 | ||||||||
Software | 275.4 | 257.8 | ||||||||
2,634.4 | 2,508.5 | |||||||||
Less: accumulated depreciation | (1,825.7 | ) | (1,707.7 | ) | ||||||
Property and equipment, net | $ | 808.7 | $ | 800.8 |
The Company acquired $72.8 thousand and $47.2 thousand of computer equipment under capital leases in the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
The Company recorded depreciation expense of $117.9 thousand and $111.4 thousand in the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
5. CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS
At March 31, 2008, customer relationships totaled $3.1 million, net of accumulated amortization of $1.8 million. At December 31, 2007 customer relationships totaled $3.3 million, net of accumulated amortization $1.6 million.
Acquired customer relationships are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives, which coincide with their expected revenue-generating lives, ranging from five to ten years. The Company recorded amortization expense of $207.0 thousand in the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006.
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6. EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE
The Company calculates earnings (loss) per share in accordance with SFAS No. 128, Earnings per Share. In accordance with SFAS No. 128, basic earnings (loss) per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding and diluted earnings per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of common stock and the dilutive effect of options and warrants outstanding, using the "treasury stock" method, as follows:
Three Months Ended | ||||
March 31, | ||||
2008 | 2007 | |||
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic | 55,007.5 | 54,729.9 | ||
Effect of dilutive stock options and warrants | - | 1,545.2 | ||
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted | 55,007.5 | 56,275.1 |
As of March 31, 2008, the Company had 19.7 million stock options and warrants outstanding, all of which have been excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive. As of March 31, 2007, the Company had 18.5 million stock options and warrants outstanding, 8.8 million of which have been excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive.
7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Clearing Agreements
As consideration for certain incentives received at the inception of one of the Companys clearing agreements, the Company would be required to pay a termination fee in the event vFinance Investments terminates the clearing agreement. This fee is reduced annually on a pro rata basis over the five year term of the clearing agreement. As of March 31, 2008, the contingent obligation of the Company associated with this clearing agreement was $340.0 thousand.
Litigation
The business of vFinance Investments and EquityStation involve substantial risks of liability, including exposure to liability under federal and state securities laws in connection with the underwriting or distribution of securities and claims by dissatisfied customers for fraud, unauthorized trading, churning, mismanagement and breach of fiduciary duty. In recent years, there has been an increasing incidence of litigation involving the securities industry, including class actions that generally seek rescission and substantial damages.
In the ordinary course of business, the Company and/or its subsidiaries may be parties to legal proceedings and regulatory inquiries, the outcome of which, either singularly or in the aggregate, is not expected to be material. There can be no assurance however that any sanctions will not have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company and/or its subsidiaries.
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The following is a brief summary of certain matters pending against or involving the Company and its subsidiaries.
In November 2007, Nupetco Associates, LLC filed a customer arbitration action (FINRA Case No. 07-03152) with FINRA naming vFinance Investments as a co-respondent. Nupetco Associates, LLC alleges violations of various state and federal securities laws. Nupetco Associates, LLC seeks compensatory damages of approximately $500.0 thousand against vFinance Investments in addition to costs, attorneys fees and punitive damages. vFinance Investments has filed an answer and affirmative defenses and has requested discovery from the arbitration claimant. vFinance Investments intends to vigorously defend the arbitration.
On January 3, 2008, the SEC issued and Order Instituting Administrative Proceedings against vFinance Investments, Richard Campanella and a registered representative of vFinance Investments, alleging that they violated federal securities laws by failing to preserve and produce customer correspondence of the registered representative. The registered representative terminated his employment with the Company on August 4, 2006, and has not been associated with the Company since that date. The Company and Mr. Campanella will likely assert as a defense that Mr. Campanella complied to the best of his ability in a timely manner with the SECs requests for documents; however, the Company and Mr. Campanella have not filed an answer responding to the specific allegations in the Order. The Company and Mr. Campanella intend to vigorously defend against the allegations.
On January 24, 2008, the Company received a complaint in a civil case (Case No. 50-2008-CA-001703-XXXX-MB, 15th Judicial Circuit Court, Palm Beach County, Florida) from Harry Konig, a former employee. Mr. Konig claims that the Company breached the employment agreement entered into with Mr. Konig on November 2, 2004, specifically with regard to the payment of his incentive compensation and the issuance of options. Mr. Konig contends that he is owed $280,000 as incentive compensation and options to purchase 350,000 shares of the Companys common stock. In addition, Mr. Konig is seeking costs and attorneys fees incurred for this action. The Company is evaluating the merits of the claims and intends to defend vigorously against Mr. Konigs claims.
On March 4, 2008 the Company received a customer arbitration action (FINRA Case No.08-00472) from Claimants, Donald and Patricia Halfmann. Under FINRA's Code of Arbitration Procedure, vFinance is not required to file a responsive pleading until April 18, 2008. The Halfmanns Statement of Claim alleges that Jeff Lafferty, a former broker working for vFinance Investments, opened accounts for the Halfmanns and misappropriated approximately $110,000 of the Halfmanns' funds via check alteration and forgery while he was employed by vFinance as the Halfmanns financial advisor. The Halfmanns also contend vFinance is liable for an additional $150,000 for investments made by the Halfmanns directly with Jeff Lafferty after their account transferred out of vFinance and after Lafferty's resignation from vFinance, with a form U-5 filed with NASD by vFinance on August 27, 2004. Finally, the Halfmanns Statement of Claim requests punitive damages, costs and attorney's fees incurred for this action. While vFinance intends to vigorously defend against the allegations made in the Halfmanns Statement of Claim, a prediction of the likely outcome cannot be made at this time.
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On or about February 28, 2005, Knight Equity Markets, LP ("Knight") filed an arbitration action (NASD Case No. 05-01069) against vFinance Investments, claiming that vFinance Investments received roughly $6.5 million in dividends that allegedly belong to Knight. vFinance Investments asserts that the dividends actually went to two of its clients, Pearl Securities LLC ("Pearl Securities") and Michael Balog, and that vFinance Investments has no liability. vFinance Investments filed third party claims against Pearl Securities and Michael Balog to bring all of the parties into the action. Knight was seeking approximately $6.5 million in damages plus costs, attorney fees and punitive damages. In January 2008, the Company settled this claim for $325.0 thousand in cash.
The Company engaged in a number of other legal proceedings incidental to the conduct of its business. These claims aggregate a range of $25.0 thousand to $280.0 thousand.
As of Mach 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, the Company had accrued approximately $75.0 thousand and $70.0 thousand, respectively, to provide for these matters. In 2005 the Company acquired an errors and omissions policy for certain future claims in excess of the policy's $75.0 thousand per claim deductible, up to an aggregate of $1.0 million. While the Company will vigorously defend itself in these matters, and will assert insurance coverage and indemnification to the maximum extent possible, there can be no assurance that these lawsuits and arbitrations will not have a material adverse impact on its financial position.
8. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Private Placement of Equity Securities
On May 5, 2008, the Company completed a private sale of 300,000 shares of its common stock to an investor at a price of $0.17 per share. This resulted in an increase in Additional paid in capital after legal expenses of $46,000.
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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included under Item 1. In addition, reference should be made to our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and related Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We have restated certain amounts in our unaudited condensed consolidated statements of income for the three months ended March 31, 2007, as a result of comments from the SEC, as discussed in Note 1 to our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contained herein.
In addition to the aforementioned restatement, certain reclassifications of amounts previously reported have been made to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements in order to maintain consistency and comparability between periods presented.
Recent Developments
On November 7, 2007, we entered into an agreement and plan of merger with National and vFin Acquisition Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of National. Under the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the merger agreement, vFin Acquisition Corporation will be merged with and into us, the separate corporate existence of vFin Acquisition Corporation will cease, and we will continue as a surviving corporation of the merger and as a wholly-owned subsidiary of National.
The Company and National announced on May 12, 2008, that the approvals by FINRA have been received, the Form S-4 Registration Statement filed by National was declared effective by the SEC on May 9, 2008 and the Companys stockholder meeting to approve the merger has been scheduled for June 13, 2008. Additionally, the $3.0 million private placement by National has been completed, as required by conditions to close the previously announced merger.
For additional information regarding this transaction, see Note 2 to our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contained herein and the section entitled "Item 1. Business - Recent Developments," to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.
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The following table and discussion summarizes the changes in major revenue and expense categories for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007.
Three Months Ended March 31, | |||||||||||||||||
2007 (Restated and Revised) |
|||||||||||||||||
2008 | Change | % Chg. | |||||||||||||||
Revenues: | |||||||||||||||||
Commissions - agency | $ | 5,949.4 | $ | 5,629.2 | $ | 320.2 | 5.7 | % | |||||||||
Trading profits | 3,039.3 | 3,596.3 | (557.0 | ) | (15.5 | )% | |||||||||||
Success fees | 1,033.7 | 1,619.2 | (585.5 | ) | (36.2 | )% | |||||||||||
Other brokerage related income | 1,178.1 | 1,152.9 | 25.2 | 2.2 | % | ||||||||||||
Consulting fees | 140.8 | 18.5 | 122.3 | 661.1 | % | ||||||||||||
Other | 227.0 | 24.1 | 202.9 | 841.9 | % | ||||||||||||
Total revenues | 11,568.3 | 12,040.2 | (471.9 | ) | (3.9 | )% | |||||||||||
Compensation, commissions and benefits | 9,890.9 | 9,662.6 | 228.3 | 2.4 | % | ||||||||||||
Clearing and transaction costs | 1,000.7 | 1,104.1 | (103.4 | ) | (9.4 | )% | |||||||||||
General and administrative costs | 681.4 | 656.7 | 24.7 | 3.8 | % | ||||||||||||
Occupancy and equipment costs | 305.0 | 240.7 | 64.3 | 26.7 | % | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 324.9 | 318.4 | 6.5 | 2.0 | % | ||||||||||||
Total operating costs | 12,202.9 | 11,982.5 | 220.4 | 1.8 | % | ||||||||||||
Income (loss) from operations | (634.6 | ) | 57.7 | (692.3 | ) | (1199.8 | )% |
THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2008 COMPARED TO THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2007
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
Revenues
Total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2008 decreased 4%, or $471.9 thousand, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007. The $471.9 thousand decrease is attributable primarily to lower trading profits and success fees from investment banking, which decreased by 16% and 36%, respectively. Trading profits decreased primarily as a result of unfavorable market conditions. Success fees decreased primarily because the results of the three months ended March 31, 2007 included fees from a substantial deal that did not recur in the three months ended March 31, 2008 and because unrealized losses on securities received as compensation for investment banking services increased by approximately $357.2 thousand in the three months ended March 31, 2008 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007. Partially offsetting these decreases were a 6% increase in agency commissions, a 2% increase in other brokerage related income and increases in consulting and other revenues. Agency commissions and brokerage related income increased primarily as a result of the addition of brokers over the past year. Increased consulting fees and other income resulted from an increase in investment banking advisory projects and other activities that had minimal activity in the three months ended March 31, 2007.
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Operating Expenses Compensation, commissions and benefits. |
Compensation, commissions and benefits for the three months ended March 31, 2008 increased $228.3 thousand, or 2%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007. Commissions are correlated with our revenues, primarily agency commissions, trading profits and success fees from investment banking. Compensation, commissions and benefits for the three months ended March 31, 2008 increased primarily as a result of a $266.5 thousand increase in compensation paid for referrals of investment banking business.
Clearing and transaction costs.
Clearing and transaction costs for the three months ended March 31, 2008 decreased $103.4 thousand, or 9%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007, primarily as a result of decreases in average clearing and transaction costs under our clearing agreements.
General and administrative costs.
General and administrative costs for the three months ended March 31, 2008 increased $24.7 thousand, or 4%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, a $179.8 thousand increase in legal fees, litigation and arbitration expenses and settlement costs was partially offset by a $129.9 thousand decrease in third party research costs and additional decreases in contract labor expenses, consulting and other professional fees.
Occupancy and equipment costs.
Occupancy and equipment costs for the three months ended March 31, 2008 increased $64.3 thousand, or 27%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007, primarily because we did not reduce occupancy costs for sublease income in March 2008, after the sublessee that occupied 14,000 square feet of office space we assumed in the Sterling Financial Acquisition became insolvent and vacated the premises.
Depreciation and amortization.
Depreciation and amortization for the three months ended March 31, 2008 increased $6.5 thousand, or 2%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007, primarily as a result of depreciation expense related to recent property, plant and equipment additions, including equipment under capital leases.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Historically, we have satisfied our liquidity and regulatory capital needs through the issuance of equity and debt securities. As of March 31, 2008, liquid assets consisted primarily of cash and cash equivalents of $4.7 million and marketable securities of $397.1 thousand, for a total of $5.1 million, which is $1.2 million less than the $6.3 million in liquid assets as of December 31, 2007. As of March 31, 2008, we had long-term capital lease obligations of $298.3 thousand, net of current obligations of $240.2 thousand.
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Both vFinance Investments and EquityStation are subject to the SEC Uniform Net Capital Rule (rule 15c3-1), which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital and requires that the ratio of aggregate indebtedness to net capital shall not exceed 15 to 1 (and the rule of the "applicable" exchange also provides that equity capital may not be withdrawn or cash dividends paid if the resulting net capital ratio would exceed 10 to 1). At March 31, 2008, vFinance Investments had net capital of $1.57 million, which was $565.1 thousand in excess of its required net capital of $1.0 million. EquityStation had net capital of $342.8 thousand that was $242.8 thousand in excess of its required net capital of $100.0 thousand.
vFinance Investments' percentage of aggregate indebtedness to net capital was 250.0% in March 2008. EquityStation's percentage of aggregate indebtedness to net capital was 83.7% in March 2008. vFinance Investments and EquityStation qualify under the exemptive provisions of rule 15c3-3 under Section (k)(2)(ii) of the rule, as they do not carry security accounts of customers or perform custodial functions related to customer securities.
Cash and cash equivalents (decreased) increased by $(767.4) thousand and $1.0 million during the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The major components of these changes are discussed below.
Cash (used in) provided by operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2008 was $(711.3) thousand compared to $1.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007, for a decrease of $1.8 million. Cash provided by (used in) operating activities includes net income adjusted for non-cash items and the effects of changes in working capital including changes in working capital related to investment security positions. Cash provided by (used in) by operating activities decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2008 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007 primarily as a result of a $679.1 thousand decrease in net income and changes in working capital, particularly accrued expenses and securities sold, not yet purchased. Included in this use of cash were payments totaling approximately $475.0 thousand in connection with litigation and arbitration settlements. Working capital also changed as a result of a decrease in accrued compensation, resulting from the decrease in revenue. Partially offsetting these factors was an increase in cash generated from securities owned during the three months ended March 31, 2008.
Cash used in investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2008 increased to $53.0 thousand compared to $23.0 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and consisted of capital expenditures in both periods. In addition to these capital expenditures, we also acquired $72.8 thousand and $47.2 thousand of computer equipment under capital leases in the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
Cash used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2008 decreased to $3.1 thousand compared to $62.7 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2007 as a result of $75.7 thousand in cash proceeds received as a result of the exercises of warrants to purchase our common stock, partially offset by a $16.1 thousand increase in capital lease payments resulting from computer equipment acquired under capital leases in recent period.
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We believe the Merger will be consummated, but the outcome cannot be predicted with any certainty. In the absence of consummating the Merger, we believe cash on hand is sufficient to meet our working capital requirements over the next twelve months. However, we may seek additional debt or equity financing in order to carry out our long-term business strategy if the Merger is not completed. Such funding may be a result of bank borrowings, public offerings, private placements of equity or debt securities, or a combination thereof. We cannot be certain that additional debt or equity financing will be available when required or, if available, that we can secure it on terms satisfactory to us.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
See Note 1 to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company has exposure to market risk, and does periodically hedge against that risk. The Company does not hold or issue any derivative financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. The Company is exposed to market risk associated with changes in the fair market value of the marketable securities that it holds. The Company's revenue and profitability may be adversely affected by declines in the volume of securities transactions and in market liquidity, which generally result in lower revenues from trading activities and commissions. Lower securities price levels may also result in a reduced volume of transactions, as well as losses from declines in the market value of securities held by the Company in trading and investment positions. Sudden sharp declines in market values of securities and the failure of issuers and counterparts to perform their obligations can result in illiquid markets in which the Company may incur losses in its principal trading activities.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act")) as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"). Based on such evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
Changes in Internal Controls
There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) identified in connection with the evaluation of our internal controls that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, such controls.
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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS |
On January 3, 2008, the SEC issued and Order Instituting Administrative Proceedings against vFinance Investments, Richard Campanella and a registered representative of vFinance Investments, alleging that they violated federal securities laws by failing to preserve and produce customer correspondence of the registered representative. The registered representative terminated his employment with the Company on August 4, 2006, and has not been associated with the Company since that date. The Company and Mr. Campanella will likely assert as a defense that Mr. Campanella complied to the best of his ability in a timely manner with the SECs requests for documents; however, the Company and Mr. Campanella have not filed an answer responding to the specific allegations in the Order. The Company and Mr. Campanella intend to vigorously defend against the allegations.
On January 24, 2008, the Company received a complaint in a civil case (Case No. 50-2008-CA-001703-XXXX-MB, 15th Judicial Circuit Court, Palm Beach County, Florida) from Harry Konig, a former employee. Mr. Konig claims that the Company breached the employment agreement entered into with Mr. Konig on November 2, 2004, specifically with regard to the payment of his incentive compensation and the issuance of options. Mr. Konig contends that he is owed $280,000 as incentive compensation and options to purchase 350,000 shares of the Companys common stock. In addition, Mr. Konig is seeking costs and attorneys fees incurred for this action. The Company is evaluating the merits of the claims and intends to defend vigorously against Mr. Konigs claims.
On March 4, 2008 the Company received a customer arbitration action (FINRA Case No.08-00472) from Claimants, Donald and Patricia Halfmann. Under FINRA's Code of Arbitration Procedure, vFinance is not required to file a responsive pleading until April 18, 2008. The Halfmanns Statement of Claim alleges that Jeff Lafferty, a former broker working for vFinance Investments, opened accounts for the Halfmanns and misappropriated approximately $110,000 of the Halfmanns' funds via check alteration and forgery while he was employed by vFinance as the Halfmanns financial advisor. The Halfmanns also contend vFinance is liable for an additional $150,000 for investments made by the Halfmanns directly with Jeff Lafferty after their account transferred out of vFinance and after Lafferty's resignation from vFinance, with a form U-5 filed with NASD by vFinance on August 27, 2004. Finally, the Halfmanns Statement of Claim requests punitive damages, costs and attorney's fees incurred for this action. While vFinance intends to vigorously defend against the allegations made in the Halfmanns Statement of Claim, a prediction of the likely outcome cannot be made at this time.
On or about February 28, 2005, Knight Equity Markets, LP ("Knight") filed an arbitration action (NASD Case No. 05-01069) against vFinance Investments, claiming that vFinance Investments received roughly $6.5 million in dividends that allegedly belong to Knight. vFinance Investments asserts that the dividends actually went to two of its clients, Pearl Securities LLC ("Pearl Securities") and Michael Balog, and that vFinance Investments has no liability. vFinance Investments filed third party claims against Pearl Securities and Michael Balog to bring all of the parties into the action. Knight was seeking approximately $6.5 million in damages plus costs, attorney fees and punitive damages. In January 2008, the Company settled this claim for $325.0 thousand in cash.
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ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
On February 28, 2008, the Company issued a total of 500,000 shares of common stock to two investors in connection with the exercise of warrants. The exercise price of these warrants was $0.15 per share. The Company received a total of $75,000 in exchange for the shares of common stock. The Company issued the shares pursuant to the exemption under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
On February 28, 2008, the Company issued 5,190 shares of common stock to one investor in connection with the exercise of warrants. The exercise price of these options was $0.11 per share. The Company received a total of $571 in exchange for the shares of common stock. The Company issued the shares pursuant to the exemption under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
On May 5, 2008, the Company completed a private placement of 300,000 shares of common stock to one investor at a price of $0.17 per share. The Company received a total of $51,000 in exchange for the shares of common stock. The Company issued the shares pursuant to the exemption under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Regulation D promulgated thereunder.
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ITEM 6. | EXHIBITS | |
Number of | ||
Exhibit | Exhibit Description | |
31.1 | Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley | |
Act of 2002.** | ||
31.2 | Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley | |
Act of 2002.** | ||
32.1 | Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley | |
Act of 2002.** | ||
32.2 | Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley | |
act of 2002.** |
** Filed herewith. |
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SIGNATURES |
In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, the Registrant has caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Signature | Title | Date | ||
Chairman of the Board and Chief | ||||
/s/ Leonard J. Sokolow | Executive Officer | |||
-------------------------------- | (Principal Executive Officer) | May 15, 2008 | ||
Leonard J. Sokolow | ||||
/s/ Alan B. Levin | Chief Financial Officer and (Principal | |||
-------------------------------- | Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 15, 2008 | ||
Alan B. Levin |
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