fp0003688_10q.htm
 

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
[X]
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2011 or
 
[  ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
Commission File Number 814-00830
 
FIRSTHAND TECHNOLOGY VALUE FUND, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
MARYLAND
77-6100553
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
   
150 Almaden Boulevard, Suite 1250
 
San Jose, California
95113
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
 
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (408) 886-7096
 
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. [X] Yes[  ] No
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrat has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
 
 
[  ]Yes
[  ] 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
     
 
[X] Non-accelerated filer
      (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
[  ] Smaller reporting company

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act)
 
 
[  ]Yes
[X] No
 
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
 
Class
Outstanding at September 30, 2011
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share
3,496,480
 
 
 

 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
2
 
Item 1.
Financial Statements
2
   
Statement of Assets and Liabilities (Unaudited) as of September 30, 2011
2
   
Statement of Operations (Unaudited) for the Period April 18, 2011
 
   
(Commencement of Operations) Through September 30, 2011
3
   
Statement of Cash Flows (Unaudited) for the Period April 18, 2011
 
   
(Commencement of Operations) Through September 30, 2011
4
   
Statement of Changes in Net Assets (Unaudited) for the Period April 18, 2011
 
   
(Commencement of Operations) Through September 30, 2011
5
   
Selected Per Share Data and Ratios (Unaudited) for the Period April 18, 2011
 
   
(Commencement of Operations) Through September 30, 2011
6
   
Schedule of Investments (Unaudited) as of September 30, 2011
7
   
Notes To Financial Statements (Unaudited)
9
 
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
18
 
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
23
 
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
24
     
PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION
25
 
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
25
 
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
25
 
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
25
 
Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities
25
 
Item 4.
(Removed and Reserved)
25
 
Item 5.
Other Information
25
 
Item 6.
Exhibits
26
   
SIGNATURES
27
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
1

 

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 (UNAUDITED)

ASSETS
 
Investment securities:
 
Unaffiliated issuers at acquisition cost
  $ 8,462,549  
Affiliated issuers at acquisition cost
    10,850,708  
Total acquisition cost
  $ 19,313,257  
Unaffiliated issuers at market value (1)
  $ 5,299,075  
Affiliated issuers at market value
    6,902,457  
Total market value (Note 7)
    12,201,532  
Cash
    73,199,697  
Segregated cash*
    1,597,500  
Receivable from interest
    177,808  
Other assets**
    40,231  
Total Assets
    87,216,768  
         
LIABILITIES
       
Payable to affiliates (Note 5)
    469,075  
Consulting fee payable
    92,000  
Accrued expenses and other payables
    76,590  
Total liabilities
    637,665  
NET ASSETS
  $ 86,579,103  
         
Net assets consist of:
       
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized
  $ 3,496  
Paid-in-capital
    94,431,111  
Accumulated net investment loss
    (1,028,265 )
Accumulated net realized gain from security transactions
    284,486  
Net unrealized depreciation on investments
    (7,111,725 )
NET ASSETS
  $ 86,579,103  
         
Shares of common stock outstanding
    3,496,480  
Net asset value per share (Note 7)
  $ 24.76  

(1)
Includes purchased options whose primary risk exposure is equity contracts.
*
Cash held in escrow on September 30, 2011, pending closing of a private company security transaction.
**
Other assets consist of $40,231 in contingent receivables from the sale of Solaicx to MEMC. The sale consisted of  an initial cash payment plus possible future cash payments if certain criteria are met.

See accompanying notes to financial statements
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
2

 
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
Statement of Operations
PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 (UNAUDITED) (1)

   
For the Quarter Ended September 30, 2011
(Unaudited)
   
For the Period Ended September 30, 2011 (1)
(Unaudited)
 
             
INVESTMENT INCOME
           
Unaffiliated interest
  $ 13,619     $ 18,822  
Affiliated interest
    63,014       110,411  
TOTAL INVESTMENT INCOME
    76,633       129,233  
                 
EXPENSES
               
Investment advisory fees (Note 5)
    469,069       862,420  
Administration  and  accounting fees
    21,775       43,225  
Custody fees
    3,000       6,000  
Transfer agent fees
    14,984       30,017  
Registration and filing fees
    7,145       7,145  
Printing fees
    12,010       22,380  
Trustees fees
    9,923       19,777  
Professional fees
    84,767       160,234  
Other fees
    5,659       6,300  
TOTAL EXPENSES
    628,332       1,157,498  
                 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
    (551,699 )     (1,028,265 )
                 
Net Realized and Unrealized Loss on Investments:
               
Net realized gains from security transactions
               
Unaffiliated
    7,008       184,701  
Net realized gains purchased option transactions (2)
    99,785       99,785  
Net change in unrealized depreciation on investments
    (5,252,023 )     (6,829,545 )
Net change in unrealized depreciation purchased options (2)
    (282,180 )     (282,180 )
Net Realized and Unrealized Loss on Investments
    (5,427,410 )     (6,827,239 )
                 
Net Decrease In Net Assets Resulting From Operations
  $ (5,979,109 )   $ (7,855,504 )
Net Decrease In Net Assets Per Share Resulting From Operations
  $ (1.71 )   $ (2.25 )

(1)
For the period April 18, 2011 (inception) through September 30, 2011.
(2)
Primary risk exposure is equity contracts.
 
See accompanying notes to financial statements
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
3

 
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
Statement of Cash Flows
PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 (UNAUDITED) (1)

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
     
Net decrease in Net Assets resulting from operations
  $ (7,855,504 )
         
Adjustments to reconcile net decrease in Net Assets derived
       
from operations to net cash provided by operating activities:
       
Purchases of investments
    (22,028,155 )
Proceeds from disposition of investments
    2,957,129  
Proceeds from litigation settlements
    42,255  
Increase in dividends, interest, and reclaims receivable
    (177,808 )
Increase in segregated cash
    (1,597,500 )
Increase in payable to affiliates
    637,665  
Net realized gain from investments
    (284,486 )
Increase in other assets
    (40,231 )
Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation from investments
    7,111,725  
Net cash used in operating activities
    (21,234,910 )
         
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
       
Proceeds from shares sold
    94,434,607  
Proceeds from shares redeemed
     
Net cash provided by financing activities
    94,434,607  
         
Net change in cash
    73,199,697  
Cash - beginning of period
     
Cash - end of period
  $ 73,199,697  

(1) 
For the period April 18, 2011 (inception) through September 30, 2011.

See accompanying notes to financial statements
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
4

 
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 (UNAUDITED) (1)

FROM OPERATIONS
     
Net investment loss
  $ (1,028,265 )
Net realized gains from security transactions
    284,486  
Net change in unrealized depreciation on investments
    (7,111,725 )
Net decrease in net assets from operations
    (7,855,504 )
         
FROM COMMON STOCK TRANSACTIONS
       
Issuance of common stock
    94,434,607  
Payment for shares redeemed
     
Net increase in net assets from Common Stock transactions
    94,434,607  
TOTAL INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
    86,579,103  
         
NET ASSETS
       
Beginning of period
     
End of period
  $ 86,579,103  
Accumulated Net Investment Loss
  $ (1,028,265 )
         
COMMON STOCK ACTIVITY
       
Shares issued
    3,496,480  
Shares redeemed
     
Net increase in shares outstanding
    3,496,480  
Shares outstanding, beginning of period
     
Shares outstanding, end of period
    3,496,480  

(1)
For the period April 18, 2011 (inception) through September 30, 2011.

See accompanying notes to financial statements
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
5

 
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
Selected Per Share Data and Ratios
PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 (UNAUDITED) (1)

Net asset value at beginning of period
  $ 27.01  
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment loss
    (0.29 )
Net realized and unrealized gains
       
(losses) on investments
    (1.96 )
         
Total from investment operations
    (2.25 )
         
Net asset value at end of period
  $ 24.76  
Market value at end of period
  $ 14.65  
         
Total return
       
Based on net asset value
    (8.33 %)(A)
Based on stock price
    (45.76 %)(A)
         
Net assets at end of period (millions)
  $ 86.6  
         
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets
    2.75 %(B)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets
    (2.45 %)(B)
         
Portfolio turnover rate
    3 %(A)

(1)
For the period April 18, 2011 (inception) through September 30, 2011.
(A)
Not Annualized
(B)
Annualized

See accompanying notes to financial statements
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
6

 
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
Schedule of Investments
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 (UNAUDITED)
 
PORTFOLIO COMPANY
INDUSTRY
TYPE OF INVESTMENT
 
SHARES/
PAR VALUE ($)
   
VALUE
 
                 
Silicon Genesis Corporation
Intellectual Property
Preferred Stock - Series 1-C * (1) (2)
    82,914     $ 1,070  
   
Preferred Stock - Series 1-D * (1) (2)
    850,830       2,723  
   
Preferred Stock - Series 1-E * (1) (2)
    5,704,480       1,184,250  
   
Preferred Stock - Series 1-F * (1) (2)
    912,453       262,148  
   
Common Stock * (1) (2)
    901,892       90  
   
Preferred Stock Warrants - Series 1-E * (1) (2)
    94,339       0  
   
Preferred Stock Warrants - Series 1-E * (1) (2)
    1,257,859       0  
   
Common Stock Warrants * (1) (2)
    37,982       4  
   
Convertible Note (1) (2)
               
   
Matures November 2011
               
   
Interest Rate 20%
  $ 1,250,000       1,462,125  
Total Intellectual Property - 3.4%
                2,912,410  
                     
IP Unity, Inc.
Networking
Preferred Stock - Series C * (1)
    1,932,222       271  
   
Preferred Stock - Series E * (1)
    193,042       27  
Total Networking - 0.0%
                298  
                     
Intevac, Inc.
Other Electronics
Common Stock *
    545,156       3,810,640  
Total Other Electronics - 4.4%
                3,810,640  
                     
SoloPower, Inc.
Renewable Energy
Preferred Stock - Series A * (1) (2)
    3,999,999       907,200  
   
Preferred Stock - Series B * (1) (2)
    1,002,052       234,981  
   
Preferred Stock - Series D * (1) (2)
    1,000,000       562,400  
   
Preferred Stock - Series E-1 * (1) (2)
    1,904,761       1,458,666  
   
Common Stock Warrants * (1) (2)
    3,999,999       826,800  
Total Renewable Energy - 4.6%
                3,990,047  
 
See accompanying notes to financial statements
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
7

 
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
Schedule of Investments - continued
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 (UNAUDITED)
 
PORTFOLIO COMPANY
INDUSTRY
TYPE OF INVESTMENT
 
CONTRACTS/ SHARES
   
VALUE
 
PowerShares QQQ Index Tracking Trust
Other
Put Options, Expiring October 2011, Strike Price $50.00
    2,000     $ 278,000  
   
Put Options, Expiring October 2011, Strike Price $53.00
    1,000       251,000  
   
Put Options, Expiring October 2011, Strike Price $49.00
    1,000       108,000  
   
Put Options, Expiring October 2011, Strike Price $54.00
    1,000       311,000  
   
Put Options, Expiring October 2011, Strike Price $51.00
    2,000       340,000  
Total Other - 1.5%
                1,288,000  
                     
Innovion Corp.
Services
Preferred Stock - Series A-1 1 (1)
    324,948       199,648  
   
Preferred Stock - Series A-2 * (1)
    168,804       489  
   
Common Stock * (1)
    1       0  
Total Services - 0.2%
                200,137  
                     
UCT Coatings, Inc.
Advanced Materials
Common Stock * (1)
    1,500,000       0  
   
Common Stock Warrants * (1)
    136,986       0  
   
Common Stock Warrants * (1)
    2,283       0  
   
Common Stock Warrants * (1)
    33,001       0  
Total Advanced Materials (0.0%)
                0  
TOTAL INVESTMENTS
(COST $19,313,257) - 14.1%
                12,201,532  
                     
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES - 85.9%
                74,377,571  
                     
NET ASSETS- 100.0%
              $ 86,579,103  
 
*
Non-income producing security
(1)
Restricted security.  Fair value is determined by or under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors (See note 3).
(2)
Affiliated issuer

See accompanying notes to financial statements
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
8

 
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.  (the “Company”)
Notes to Financial Statements
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 (UNAUDITED)
 
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)

NOTE 1.  THE COMPANY

Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.  (the “Company,” “us,” “our,” and “we”), is a Maryland corporation and an externally managed, non-diversified, closed-end management investment company that has elected to be treated as a business development company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”).  The Company acquired most of its existing portfolio securities through the reorganization of Firsthand Technology Value Fund, a series of Firsthand Funds, into the Company.  The reorganization was completed on April 15, 2011.  The Company commenced operations on April 18th, 2011. Under normal circumstances, the Company will invest at least 80% of its assets for investment purposes in technology companies, which are considered to be those companies that derive at least 50% of their revenues from products and/or services within the information technology sector or the so-called “cleantech” sector.  Information technology companies include, but are not limited to, those focused on computer hardware, software, telecommunications, networking, Internet, and consumer electronics.  While there is no standard definition of cleantech, it is generally regarded as including goods and services designed to harness renewable energy and materials, eliminate emissions and waste, and reduce the use of natural resources.  In addition, under normal circumstances we will invest at least 70% of our assets in private venture capital companies and in public companies with market capitalizations less than $250 million.  We anticipate that our portfolio will be primarily composed of equity and equity derivative securities of technology and cleantech companies (as defined above), both private venture capital-stage companies as well as publicly-traded companies.  We expect that these investments will range between $1 million and $10 million each, although this investment size will vary proportionately with the size of the Company’s capital base. During the first year of the Company’s operation, however, the Company’s assets may be substantially invested in cash or cash equivalents. The Company’s shares are listed on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “SVVC.”

NOTE 2.  INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Our interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Article 10 of Regulation S-X and in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) applicable to interim financial information.  Accordingly, they do not include all information and disclosures necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position, results of operations and cash flows in conformity with GAAP.  In the opinion of management, these interim financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting of valuation adjustments and normal recurring accruals, necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position, results of operations and cash flows for such periods.  The results of operations for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results for the full year.  Since the Company only commenced operations on April 18, 2011, the Company will file its first Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period April 18, 2011, through December 31, 2011, following the fiscal year end of December 31, 2011.
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
9

 

NOTE 3.  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed in the preparation of the Company’s financial statements included in this report:

USE OF ESTIMATES.  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

PORTFOLIO INVESTMENT VALUATIONS. Investments are stated at “value” as defined in the 1940 Act and in the applicable regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and in accordance with GAAP.  Value, as defined in Section 2(a)(41) of the 1940 Act, is (i) the market value of those securities for which a market quotation is readily available and (ii) the fair value as determined in good faith by, or under the direction of, the board of directors for all other securities and assets.  On September 30, 2011, our financial statements include venture capital investments valued at $7,102,892.  The fair values of our venture capital investments were determined in good faith by, or under the direction of, the Board.  Upon sale of these investments, the values that are ultimately realized may be different from what is presently estimated.  The difference could be material.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS.  The Company considers liquid assets deposited with a bank, investments in money market funds, and certain short-term debt instruments with maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.  These investments represent amounts held with financial institutions that are readily accessible to pay our expenses or purchase investments.  Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

RESTRICTED SECURITIES.  On September 30, 2011, we held $7,102,892 in “Restricted securities.”

MILESTONE AND CONTINGENT PAYMENTS FROM SALE OF INVESTMENT. As indicated in Note 1, Company acquired most of its existing portfolio through the reorganization of Firsthand Technology Value Fund, a series of Firsthand Funds, into the Company, which occurred on April 15, 2011.  The assets transferred in the reorganization include a $40,231 contingent receivable originating from the sale of Solaicx to MEMC for an initial cash payment plus possible future cash payments if certain milestone and contingent criteria are met.  This milestone payment is valued based on an estimate.  There can be no assurances as to how much of this amount we will ultimately realize or when it will be realized, if at all.

INCOME RECOGNITION.  Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date.  Interest income is accrued as earned.  Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are amortized over the lives of the respective securities.  Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received.  When debt securities are determined to be non-income producing, the Company ceases accruing interest and writes off any previously accrued interest.  These write-offs are recorded as a debit to interest income.  During the quarter ended September 30, 2011, the Company earned $13,619 in interest on interest-bearing accounts.  During the quarter ended September 30, 2011, the Company recorded $63,014 of bridge note interest.
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
10

 
 
REALIZED GAIN OR LOSS AND UNREALIZED APPRECIATION OR DEPRECIATION OF PORTFOLIO INVESTMENTS. A realized gain or loss is recognized when an investment is disposed of and is computed as the difference between the Company’s cost basis in the investment at the disposition date and the net proceeds received from such disposition.  Unrealized appreciation or depreciation is computed as the difference between the fair value of the investment and the cost basis of such investment.

INCOME TAXES.  As we intend to qualify as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), the Company does not provide for income taxes.  The Company recognizes interest and penalties in income tax expense.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION.   The accounting records of the Company are maintained in U.S. dollars.  All assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the rate of exchange of such currencies against U.S. dollars on the date of valuation.

SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS.   Securities transactions are accounted for on the date the transaction for the purchase or sale of the securities is entered into by the Company (i.e., trade date).

CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK.  The Company places its cash and cash equivalents with financial institutions and, at times, cash held in checking accounts may exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limit.

NOTE 4.  BUSINESS RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

We plan to invest a substantial portion of our assets in privately-held companies, the securities of which are inherently illiquid.  We also seek to invest in small publicly-traded companies that we believe have exceptional growth potential and to make opportunistic investments in publicly-traded companies, both large and small.  In the case of investments in small publicly-traded companies, although these companies are publicly traded, their stock may not trade at high volumes, and prices can be volatile, which may restrict our ability to sell our positions.  These privately held and publicly traded businesses tend to lack management depth, have limited or no history of operations and typically have not attained profitability.  Because of the speculative nature of our investments and the lack of public markets for privately held investments, there is greater risk of loss than is the case with traditional investment securities.

We do not choose investments based on a strategy of diversification.  We also do not rebalance the portfolio should one of our portfolio companies increase in value substantially relative to the rest of the portfolio.  Therefore, the value of our portfolio may be more vulnerable to events affecting a single sector, industry or portfolio company and, therefore, may be subject to greater volatility than a company that follows a diversification strategy.

Because there is typically no public or readily-ascertainable market for our interests in the small privately-held companies in which we invest, the valuation of those securities is determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee, comprised of all members of the Board who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as such term is defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act, in accordance with our Valuation Procedures and is subject to significant estimates and judgments.  The determined value of the securities in our portfolio may differ significantly from the values that would be placed on these securities if a ready market for the securities existed.  Any changes in valuation are recorded in our Statement of Operations as “Net increase (decrease) in unrealized appreciation on investments.”  Changes in valuation of any of our investments in privately-held companies from one period to another may be volatile.
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
11

 
 
The Board may, from time to time, engage an independent valuation firm to provide it with valuation assistance with respect to certain of our portfolio investments.  The Company intends to continue to engage an independent valuation firm to provide us with assistance regarding our determination of the fair value of select portfolio investments each quarter unless directed by the Board to cancel such valuation services.  The scope of the services rendered by an independent valuation firm is at the discretion of the Board.  The Board is ultimately and solely responsible for determining the fair value of the Company’s investments in good faith.

With respect to investments for which market quotations are not readily available or when such market quotations are deemed not to represent fair value, the Board has approved a multi-step valuation process to be followed each quarter, as described below:

 
(1)
each quarter the valuation process begins with each portfolio company or investment being initially valued by the investment professionals responsible for the portfolio investment;
 
 
(2)
preliminary valuation conclusions are then documented and discussed with the Valuation Committee;
 
 
(3)
the Valuation Committee of the Board on a quarterly basis reviews the preliminary valuation of the Adviser Valuation Committee and that of the independent valuation firm and makes the fair value determination, in good faith, based on the valuation recommendations of the Adviser Valuation Committee and the independent valuation firm; and
 
 
(4)
at each quarterly Board meeting, the Board considers the valuations recommended by the Adviser Valuation Committee and the independent valuation firm that were previously submitted to the Valuation Committee of the Board and ratifies the fair value determinations made by the Valuation Committee of the Board.

NOTE 5.  INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT FEE

The Company has entered into an investment management agreement (the “Investment Management Agreement”) with SiVest Group, Inc. (“SiVest,” or the “Adviser”), pursuant to which the Company will pay SiVest a fee for providing investment management services consisting of two components—a base management fee and an incentive fee.

The base management fee will be calculated at an annual rate of 2.00% of our gross assets.  For services rendered under the Investment Management Agreement, the base management fee will be payable quarterly in arrears.  The base management fee will be calculated based on the average of (1) the value of our gross assets at the end of the current calendar quarter and (2) the value of our gross assets at the end of the preceding calendar quarter; and will be appropriately adjusted for any share issuances or repurchases during the current calendar quarter.  Base management fees for any partial month or quarter will be pro-rated.

The incentive fee will be determined and payable in arrears as of the end of each calendar year (or upon termination of the Investment Management Agreement, as of the termination date), commencing on April 15, 2011, and will equal 20% of our realized capital gains, if any, on a cumulative basis from inception through the end of each calendar year, computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation on a cumulative basis, less the aggregate amount of any previously paid incentive fees, provided that the incentive fee determined as of December 31, 2011, will be calculated for a period of shorter than twelve calendar months to take into account any realized gains computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation from inception.
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
12

 
 
NOTE 6.  DEBT

The Company currently has no plan to use leverage and does not have any significant outstanding debt obligations (other than normal operating expense accruals).

NOTE 7. FAIR VALUE

Securities traded on stock exchanges, or quoted by NASDAQ, are valued according to the NASDAQ Stock Market, Inc. (“NASDAQ”) official closing price, if applicable, or at their last reported sale price as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (normally 4:00 P.M. Eastern Time).  If a security is not traded that day, the security will be valued at its most recent bid price.

Securities traded in the over-the-counter market, but not quoted by NASDAQ, are valued at the last sale price (or, if the last sale price is not readily available, at the most recent closing bid price as quoted by brokers that make markets in the securities) at the close of trading on the NYSE.

Securities traded both in the over-the-counter market and on a stock exchange are valued according to the broadest and most representative market.

Securities and other assets that do not have market quotations readily available are valued at their fair value as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) in accordance with the Valuation Procedures adopted by the Valuation Committee, a committee of the Board.

In pricing illiquid, privately placed securities, the Board of Directors is responsible for (1) determining overall valuation guidelines and (2) ensuring that the investments of the Company are valued within the prescribed guidelines.

The Valuation Committee, comprised of all of the independent Board members, is responsible for determining the valuation of the Company’s assets within the guidelines established by the Board of Directors.  The Valuation Committee receives information and recommendations from the Adviser and an independent valuation firm.

The values assigned to these investments are based on available information and do not necessarily represent amounts that might ultimately be realized when that investment is sold, as such amounts depend on future circumstances and cannot reasonably be determined until the individual investments are actually liquidated or become readily marketable.

APPROACHES TO DETERMINING FAIR VALUE.  GAAP defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price).  In effect, GAAP applies fair value terminology to all valuations whereas the 1940 Act applies market value terminology to readily marketable assets and fair value terminology to other assets.

The main approaches to measuring fair value utilized are the market approach, the income approach, and the asset-based approach.  The choice of which approach to use in a particular situation depends on the specific facts and circumstances associated with the company, as well as the purpose for which the valuation analysis is being conducted.  SiVest and the independent valuation firm rely primarily on the market and income approaches. We also considered the asset-based approach in our analysis because certain of the portfolio companies do not have substantial operating earnings relative to the value of their underlying assets.
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
13

 

 
-
Market Approach (M): The market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities.  For example, the market approach often uses market multiples derived from a set of comparables.  Multiples might lie in ranges with a different multiple for each comparable.  The selection of where within the range each appropriate multiple falls requires the use of judgment in considering factors specific to the measurement (qualitative and quantitative).
 
 
 
-
Income Approach (I): The income approach uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts (for example, cash flows or earnings) to a single present value amount (discounted).  The measurement is based on the value indicated by current market expectations about those future amounts.  Those valuation techniques include present value techniques; option-pricing models, such as the Black-Scholes-Merton formula (a closed-form model) and a binomial model (a lattice model), which incorporate present value techniques; and the multi-period excess earnings method, which is used to measure the fair value of certain assets.

 
-
Asset-Based Approach (A): The asset-based approach examines the value of a company’s assets net of its liabilities to derive a value for the equity holders.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT. In accordance with the guidance from the Financial Accounting Standards Board on fair value measurements and disclosures under GAAP, the Company discloses the fair value of its investments in a hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure the fair value.  The hierarchy gives the highest priority to valuations based upon unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to valuations based upon unobservable inputs that are significant to the valuation (Level 3 measurements).

The guidance establishes three levels of the fair value hierarchy as follows:

 
Level 1 -
Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the date of measurement.

 
Level 2 -
Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.  These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument in an inactive market, prices for similar instruments in an active or inactive market, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

 
Level 3 –
Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, to the extent relevant observable inputs are not available, representing the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in valuing the asset or liability based on the best information available.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, for example, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security.  To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
14

 
 
more judgment.  Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy.  In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls in its entirety, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.  The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Company’s net assets as of September 30, 2011:
 
 
 
 
 
LEVEL 1
QUOTED PRICES
   
LEVEL 2
OTHER SIGNIFICANT
OBSERVABLE INPUTS
   
LEVEL 3
SIGNIFICANT
UNOBSERVABLE
INPUTS
 
Common Stocks
                 
Advanced Materials
  $     $     $  
Intellectual Property
                90  
Other Electronics
    3,810,640              
Total Common Stocks
    3,810,640               90  
Preferred Stocks
                       
Intellectual Property
  $     $     $ 1,450,191  
Networking
                298  
Renewable Energy
                3,163,247  
Services
                200,137  
Total Preferred Stocks
                4,813,873  
Asset Derivatives *
                       
Equity Contracts
  $     $ 1,288,000     $ 826,804  
Total Asset Derivatives
            1,288,000       826,804  
Convertible Bonds
                       
Intellectual Property
  $     $     $ 1,462,125  
Total
  $ 3,810,640     $ 1,288,000     $ 7,102,892  
 
* Asset derivatives include warrants.
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
15

 
 
At the end of each calendar quarter, management evaluates the Level 2 and Level 3 assets and liabilities for changes in liquidity, including but not limited to: whether a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price, the depth and consistency of prices from third party services, and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market.  Additionally, management evaluates the Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.  Transfers in and out of the levels are recognized at the value at the end of the period.  There were no significant transfers between Levels 1 and 2 during the period since commencement of operations and ended September 30, 2011.

Following is a reconciliation of Level 3 assets (at either the beginning or the ending of the period) for which significant unobservable inputs were used to determine fair value.
 
INVESTMENTS AT
FAIR VALUE USING
SIGNIFICANT
UNOBSERVABLE
INPUTS (LEVEL 3)
 
BALANCE
AS OF
4/18/11(1)
   
PURCHASES(2)
   
NET
REALIZED
GAINS
(LOSSES)
   
NET
UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
(DEPRECIATION)
   
TRANSFERS
IN (OUT) OF
LEVEL 3
   
BALANCE
AS OF
9/30/11
 
Common Stocks
                                   
Advanced Materials
  $     $ 662,235     $     $ (662,235 )   $     $  
Intellectual Property
          169,045             (168,955 )           90  
Preferred Stocks
                                               
Intellectual Property
          4,071,014             (2,620,823 )           1,450,191  
Networking
          298                         298  
Renewable Energy
          3,846,713             (683,466 )           3,163,247  
Services
          145,829             54,308             200,137  
Warrants
                                               
Equity Contracts
          1,153,259       (10 )     (326,445 )           826,804  
Convertible Bonds
                                               
Intellectual Property
          1,610,753             (148,628 )           1,462,125  
Total
  $     $ 11,659,146     $ (10 )   $ (4,556,244 )   $     $ 7,102,892  
 
(1)
Commencement of operations.
(2)
There was an expiration of an IP Unity Series E-1 Warrant. It expired on August 4, 2011, resulting in a $10 realized capital loss.

NOTE 8.  FEDERAL INCOME TAXES

The Company has elected, and intends to qualify annually, for the special tax treatment afforded regulated investment companies under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).  As provided in the Code, in any fiscal year in which a BDC so qualifies and distributes at least 90% of its taxable net income, the BDC (but not the shareholders) will be relieved of federal income tax on the income distributed.  Accordingly, no provision for income taxes has been made.  To avoid imposition of the excise tax applicable to regulated investment companies, the Company intends to declare as dividends in each calendar year at least 98% of its net investment income (earned during the calendar year) and 98% of its net realized capital gains (earned during the 12 months ended October 31) plus undistributed amounts, if any, from prior years.
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
16

 
 
NOTE 9.  INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES

Under the 1940 Act, issuers 5% or more of whose outstanding voting securities are owned, controlled, or held with power to veto by the Company are affiliates of the Company. A summary of the Company’s investments in affiliates for the period since commencement of operations and ended September 30, 2011, is noted below:
 
   
SHARES/PAR ACTIVITY
                         
   
BALANCE
         
SALES
   
BALANCE
                         
   
AT
   
PURCHASES/
   
MATURITY/
   
AT
   
REALIZED
   
DIVIDENDS/
   
VALUE
   
ACQUISITION
 
AFFILIATE
 
4/18/11*
   
MERGER
   
EXPIRATION
   
9/30/11
   
GAIN (LOSS)
   
INTEREST
   
9/30/11
   
COST
 
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                               
Common
          901,892             901,892     $     $     $ 90     $ 169,045  
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                                               
Convertible Note
          1,250,000             1,250,000                   1,462,125       1,610,753  
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                                               
Common Warrant
          37,982             37,982                   4       6,678  
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                                               
Series 1-C
          82,914             82,914                   1,070       109,518  
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                                               
Series 1-D
          850,830             850,830                   2,723       431,901  
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                                               
Series 1-E
          5,704,480             5,704,480                   1,184,250       2,946,535  
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                                               
Series 1-E Warrant
          94,339             94,339                         13,012  
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                                               
Series 1-E Warrant
          1,257,859             1,257,859                         173,500  
Silicon Genesis Corp.,
                                                               
Series 1-F
          912,453             912,453                   262,148       583,060  
SoloPower, Series A
          3,999,999             3,999,999                   907,200       1,032,104  
SoloPower, Series B
          1,002,052             1,002,052                   234,981       268,400  
SoloPower, Series D
          1,000,000             1,000,000                   562,400       547,304  
SoloPower, Series E-1
          1,904,761             1,904,761                   1,458,666       1,998,906  
SoloPower Warrant
          3,999,999             3,999,999                   826,800       959,992  
                                                    $ 6,902,457     $ 10,850,708  

* Commencement of operations.

As of September 30, 2011, Kevin Landis represents the Company and sits on the board of directors of Silicon Genesis Corporation.  Serving on boards of directors of portfolio companies may cause conflicts of interest.  The Adviser has adopted various procedures to ensure that the Company will not be unfavorably affected by these potential conflicts.
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
17

 
 
ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The matters discussed in this report, as well as in future oral and written statements by management of Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc., that are forward-looking statements based on current management expectations that involve substantial  risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements related to future events or our future financial performance. We generally identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar words. Important assumptions include our ability to originate new investments, achieve certain margins and levels of profitability, and the availability of additional capital. In light of these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of a projection or forward-looking statement in this report should not be regarded as a representation by us that our plans or objectives will be achieved. The forward-looking statements contained in this report include statements as to:
 
• 
our future operating results;
• 
our business prospects and the prospects of our prospective portfolio companies;
• 
the impact of investments that we expect to make;
• 
the impact of a protracted decline in the liquidity of the credit markets on our business;
• 
our informal relationships with third parties;
• 
the expected market for venture capital investments and our addressable market;
• 
the dependence of our future success on the general economy and its impact on the industries in which we invest;
• 
our ability to access the equity market;
• 
the ability of our portfolio companies to achieve their objectives;
• 
our expected financings and investments;
• 
our regulatory structure and tax status;
• 
our ability to operate as a business development company and a regulated investment company;
• 
the adequacy of our cash resources and working capital;
• 
the timing of cash flows, if any, from the operation of our portfolio companies;
• 
the timing, form, and amount of any dividend distributions;
• 
impact of fluctuation of interest rates on our business;
• 
valuation of any investments in portfolio companies particularly those having no liquid trading market; and
• 
our ability to recover unrealized losses.

For a discussion of factors that could cause our actual results to differ from forward-looking statements contained in this report, please see the discussion under Item 1A – “Risk Factors” or Part II of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made in this report relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this report.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this report.
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
18

 
 
OVERVIEW
We are a Maryland corporation and an externally-managed, non-diversified closed-end management investment company that has elected to be treated as a BDC under the 1940 Act.  As a BDC, we are required to comply with certain regulatory requirements.  For instance, we generally have to invest at least 70% of our total assets in “qualifying assets,” including securities of private U.S. companies, cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities and high-quality debt investments that mature in one year or less.

Our investment objective is to achieve long-term capital appreciation through venture capital investments in equity-focused securities that we believe have exceptional growth potential.  Our strategy is to evaluate and invest in a broad range of technology and cleantech companies.  Under normal circumstances, we will invest at least 80% of our total assets for investment purposes in technology companies. We consider technology companies to be those companies that derive at least 50% of their revenues from products and/or services within the information technology sector or the so-called “cleantech” sector. Information technology companies include, but are not limited to, those focused on computer hardware, software, telecommunications, networking, Internet, and consumer electronics. While there is no standard definition of cleantech, it is generally regarded as including goods and services designed to harness renewable energy and materials, eliminate emissions and waste, and reduce the use of natural resources. In addition, under normal circumstances we will invest at least 80% of our assets in private venture capital companies and in public companies with market capitalizations less than $250 million. Capital that we provide directly to venture capital and private equity-backed technology and cleantech companies is generally used for growth and general working capital purposes as well as, in select cases, for acquisitions or recapitalizations.  We are long-term investors.  We seek to identify investment opportunities in industries and market that will be growth opportunities three to seven years from the date of our initial investment.

Once fully invested, we expect our portfolio to be primarily composed of equity and equity derivative securities of technology and cleantech companies (as defined above), both private venture capital-stage companies as well as publicly traded companies. Consistent with regulatory requirements, we invest primarily in United States-based companies and to a lesser extent in foreign companies.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
We commenced operations in April 2011, so there is no comparable period with which to compare results for the period from July 1, 2011 through September 30, 2011. The following information is for the three-month period ended September 30, 2011.

INVESTMENT INCOME
Interest income totaled $76,633 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2011. The interest income is primarily attributable to interest accrued on a convertible note investment with Silicon Genesis Corporation.

OPERATING EXPENSES
Operating expenses totaled approximately $628,332 during the period ended September 30, 2011.

Significant components of operating expenses for the quarter ended September 30, 2011 were management fee expense of $469,069 and professional fees (audit, legal, accounting, and consulting) of $106,542.
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
19

 

NET INVESTMENT INCOME BEFORE INVESTMENT GAINS AND LOSSES
The net investment loss was $551,699 for the quarter ended September 30, 2011.

NET INVESTMENT REALIZED GAINS AND LOSSES AND UNREALIZED APPRECIATION AND DEPRECIATION
Realized gains or losses are measured by the difference between the net proceeds from the repayment or sale and the cost basis of the investment without regard to unrealized appreciation or depreciation previously recognized, and includes investments charged off during the period, net of recoveries. Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation primarily reflects the change in portfolio investment values during the reporting period, including the reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation or depreciation when gains or losses are realized.

During the quarter ended September 30, 2011, we recognized net realized gains of approximately $106,793 from the sale of publicly-traded securities.

During the quarter ended September 30, 2011, net unrealized depreciation on total investments increased by $5,534,203. The change in net unrealized appreciation and depreciation of our private investments is based on portfolio asset valuations determined in good faith by our Board of Directors. This change in net unrealized depreciation was primarily comprised of decreases in the fair value of our portfolio companies due to company performance and market conditions of approximately $5.3 million.  A summary of the net realized and unrealized loss on investments for the three-month period ended September 30, 2011 is shown below.
 
  THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,2011  
Realized gains
  $ 106,793  
Net change in unrealized depreciation on investments
    (5,534,203 )
Net realized and unrealized loss on investments
    (5,427,410 )
 
The following table itemizes the change in net unrealized depreciation of investments for the period ended September 30, 2011:
 
PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,2011*
 
Gross unrealized appreciation on portfolio investments
  $ 129,659  
Gross unrealized depreciation on portfolio investments
  $ (7,241,384 )
Net increase in unrealized depreciation on portfolio investments
  $ (7,111,725 )
 
*
Represents period from April 18, 2011 through September 30, 2011.
  
INCOME AND EXCISE TAXES
We account for income taxes in accordance with the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification 740, Income Taxes, which requires that deferred income taxes be determined based upon the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities given the provisions of the enacted tax law.  Valuation allowances are used to reduce the deferred tax assets to the amount likely to be realized.

NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS AND CHANGE IN NET ASSETS PER SHARE
For the quarter ended September 30, 2011, the net decrease in net assets resulting from operations totaled $5,979,109. Basic and fully-diluted net change in net assets per share for the quarter ended September 30, 2011 was $(1.71).

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY, AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

At September 30, 2011, we had investments in public and private securities totaling $12.2 million. Also, at September 30, 2011, we had approximately $73.2 million in cash and cash equivalents. We primarily invest cash on hand in interest-bearing deposit accounts. We expect the portion of our portfolio consisting of cash and cash equivalents to decrease as we become fully invested.
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
20

 

As of September 30, 2011, net assets totaled $86.6 million, with a net asset value per share of $24.76. Our primary use of funds will be investments in portfolio companies and payments of fees and other operating expenses we incur. Additionally, we expect to raise additional capital to support our future growth through future equity offerings. To the extent we determine to raise additional equity through an offering of our common stock at a price below net asset value, existing investors will experience dilution.

PORTFOLIO INVESTMENTS

PRIVATE INVESTMENTS
We make investments in securities of both public and private companies. During the quarter ended September 30, 2011, we had investments in the following private companies:

INNOViON Corporation
INNOViON Corporation (“Innovion”), San Jose, California, provides foundry ion implant services to the microelectronics industry.

At September 30, 2011 our investments in INNOViON consisted of 324,948 shares of Series A-1 preferred stock, 168,804 shares of Series A-2 preferred stock, and one share of common stock, with a combined fair value of $200,137.

Movius Corporation
Movius Corporation (“Movius”), Atlanta , Georgia, provides unified communications solutions for telecommunications carriers worldwide. Its applications include converged messaging, unified conferencing, and virtual telephony.

At September 30, 2011 our investment Movius consisted of multiple investments in IP Unity, Inc., a predecessor entity. At September 30, 2011 our investments in IP Unity consisted of 1,932,222 shares of Series C preferred stock, and 193,042 shares of Series E preferred stock, with a combined fair value of $298.

Silicon Genesis Corporation
Silicon Genesis Corporation (“SiGen”), San Jose, CA, provides engineered substrate process technology for the semiconductor, display, optoelectronics, and solar markets.

At September 30, 2011 our investments in SiGen consisted of 82,914 shares of Series 1-C preferred stock, 850,830 shares of Series 1-D preferred stock, 5,704,480 shares of Series 1-E preferred stock, 912,453 shares of Series 1-F preferred stock, 901,982 shares of common stock, warrants for 1,352,198 shares of Series 1-E preferred stock, warrants for 37,982 shares of common stock, and a $1.25 million par value convertible note. The note bears annual interest at a rate of 20% and matures on November 3, 2011. At September 30, 2011 the combined fair value of our SiGen securities was $2.9 million.

SoloPower, Inc.
SoloPower, Inc. (“SoloPower”), San Jose, CA, produces low-cost, high-power, flexible thin-film photovoltaic modules that offer a viable alternative to the electricity produced using traditional fossil fuels.

At September 30, 2011 our investments in SoloPower consisted of 3,999,999 shares of Series A preferred stock, 1,002,052 shares of Series B preferred stock, 1,000,000 shares of Series D preferred stock, 1,904,761 shares of Series
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
21

 
 
E-1 preferred stock, and warrants to purchase 3,999,999 shares of common stock, with a combined fair value of $4.0 million.

UCT Coatings, Inc.
UCT Coatings, Inc. (“UCT”), Stuart, Florida, is a leader in the development of metal coatings that reduce friction and improve efficiency in mechanical systems.

At September 30, 2011 our investments in UCT consisted of 1,500,000 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 172,016 shares of common stock, with a combined fair value of $0.

PUBLIC INVESTMENTS
On September 30, 2011, we had investments in the following public securities:

Intevac, Inc.
Intevac, Inc. (“Intevac”), Santa Clara, California, is a leading provider of cost-effective, advanced equipment and products to the hard disk drive, solar, semiconductor, and photonics industries. At September 30, 2011, our investment in Intevac consisted of 545,156 shares of common stock with an aggregate market value of $3.8 million.
 
PowerShares QQQ Index Tracking Trust
PowerShares QQQ Index Tracking Trust is an exchange traded fund (ETF) based on the Nasdaq-100 Index. The Fund will, under most circumstances, consist of all of the stocks in the Index. At September 30, 2011 our investment in PowerShares QQQ Index Tracking Trust consisted of put options of various strike prices and expirations on the shares of the Fund with an aggregate market value of approximately $1.3 million.

SUBSEQUENT INVESTMENTS
Subsequent to the close of the financial quarter on September 30, 2011, we made a number of additional investments.
 
On October 10, 2011, we acquired 100 contracts for put options on the PowerShares QQQ Index Tracking Trust at a cost of approximately $26,000.
 
As of September 30, 2011, we were in the final stages of acquiring an interest in Facebook, a private company. The acquisition was done in the secondary market and involved making a deposit in an escrow account until certain conditions were met, including the underlying company’s right of first refusal. As of the end of the quarter, we had approximately $1.6 million in such escrow deposits. The Facebook transaction closed on October 13, 2011.
 
On November 3, 2011, we made a $1 million investment in Skyline Solar, Inc., a private company that produces concentrated solar photovoltaic arrays for utility-scale electricity generation.
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
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ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.

The Company’s  business activities contain elements of risk.  We consider the principal types of market risk to be valuation risk and small company investment risk.

VALUATION RISK
Value, as defined in Section 2(a)(41) of the 1940 Act, is (i) the market price for those securities for which market quotations are readily available and (ii) fair value as determined in good faith by, or under the direction of, the Board of Directors for all other assets.

Because there is typically no public market for our interests in the small privately-held companies in which we invest, the valuation of the securities in that portion of our portfolio is determined in good faith by our Board of Directors with the assistance of our Valuation Committee, comprised of the independent members of our Board of Directors, in accordance with our Valuation Procedures.  In addition, the Board of Directors may use the services of a nationally recognized independent valuation firm to aid it in determining the fair value of some of these securities.  In the absence of a readily ascertainable market value, the determined value of our portfolio of securities may differ significantly from the values that would be placed on the portfolio if a ready market for such securities existed.  Determining fair value requires that judgment be applied to the specific facts and circumstances of each portfolio investment, although our valuation policy is intended to provide a consistent basis for determining fair value of the portfolio investments.  The methods for valuing these securities may include: fundamental analysis (sales, income, or earnings multiples, etc.), discounts from market prices of similar securities, purchase price of securities, subsequent private transactions in the security or related securities, or discounts applied to the nature and duration of restrictions on the disposition of the securities, as well as a combination of these and other factors.  Because such valuations, and particularly valuations of private securities and private companies, are inherently uncertain, may fluctuate over short periods of time, and may be based on estimates, our determinations of fair value may differ materially from the values that would have been used if a ready market for these securities existed.

Furthermore, changes in valuation of any of our investments in privately-held companies from one period to another may be volatile.

Investments in privately held, immature companies are inherently more volatile than investments in more mature businesses.  Such immature businesses are inherently fragile and easily affected by both internal and external forces.

Our portfolio companies can lose much or all of their value suddenly in response to an internal or external adverse event.  Conversely, these immature businesses can gain suddenly in value in response to an internal or external positive development.

The values assigned to our assets are based on available information and do not necessarily represent amounts that might ultimately be realized, as these amounts depend on future circumstances and cannot be reasonably determined until the individual investments are actually liquidated or become readily marketable.  Upon sale of investments, the values that are ultimately realized may be different from what is presently estimated.  This difference could be material.
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
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PRIVATELY PLACED SMALL COMPANIES RISK
The Company invests in small companies, and its investments in these companies are considered speculative in nature.  The Company’s investments often include securities that are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale that adversely affect the liquidity and marketability of such securities.  As a result, the Company is subject to risk of loss which may prevent our shareholders from achieving price appreciation, dividend distributions and return of capital.

CASH INVESTMENTS RISK
The Company recently commenced operations.  Therefore, as of September 30, 2011, a large portion of the Company’s assets (approximately 85%) are invested in cash and/or cash equivalents, which are expected to earn low yields.  Given the current low interest rate environment, to the extent management fee expenses exceed interest income on the cash holdings of the Company, the Company may experience losses.

ITEM 4.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)).  Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective and provided reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
 
(b) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2011, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
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PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

We are not a party to any material pending legal proceeding, and no such proceedings are known to be contemplated.

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS.

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our current Registration Statement on Form N-2, as amended and supplemented, which could materially affect our business, financial condition, and/or operating results. As of September 30, 2011, there have not been any material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in the “Risk Factors” section of our current Registration Statement on Form N-2. The risks described in our Registration Statement on Form N-2 are not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and/or operating results.

ITEM 2.  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.

None.

ITEM 3.  DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.

None.

ITEM 4.  (REMOVED AND RESERVED).


ITEM 5.  OTHER INFORMATION.

None.
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
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ITEM 6  EXHIBITS.

EXHIBIT NUMBER
DESCRIPTION
 
 
31.1
Chief Executive Officer Certification and Chief Financial Officer Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 
32.1
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Certification Officer Pursuant to Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
Firsthand Technology Value Fund, Inc.
 
 
26

 
 
SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

   
FIRSTHAND TECHNOLOGY VALUE FUND, INC.
     
     
Dated: November 8, 2011
By:
/s/ Kevin Landis
   
Kevin Landis
   
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
   
(On behalf of the registrant and as the principal financial officer)
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
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EXHIBIT INDEX
 
EXHIBIT NUMBER
DESCRIPTION
 
 
31.1
Chief Executive Officer Certification and Chief Financial Officer Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 
32.1
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Certification Officer Pursuant to Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002